We’re heading to Split! This city is the oldest in Croatia and is located in Dalmatia. Split attractions are renowned for their rich history, spectacular coastlines with beautiful beaches, all enjoyed under delightful weather.
There’s plenty to do in this city! From stone and sandy beaches to green parks, and from sacred buildings to lively bustling squares. To ensure you experience all aspects of Split, you can join our Split highlights bike tour.
Not only will you see all the highlights, but you’ll also receive background information. You’ll learn more about the city and get the best tips from the guide, such as where to find excellent restaurants or other activities to do in Split. This way, your city trip in Split will be one to remember.
Stroll through the ancient Roman city gates into the heart of Split and embark on an adventure in Diocletian’s Palace, or would you rather seek out the green parks and sunny beaches? There’s something for everyone! Below, we highlight 7 Split attractions that you shouldn’t miss.
1. Diocletian’s Palace
We begin in the heart of Split, Diocletian’s Palace. This palace was built for the retired Emperor Diocletian. The ruins are well-preserved, and even part of the underground system full of corridors and cellars is still intact and accessible to tourists!
As you enter the cellar, you’ll find a small market with souvenirs, and as the cherry on top, several scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed here.
As you wander through the charming streets in and around the palace, you’ll likely end up at the Peristyle square. This is the palace’s courtyard, often used for various cultural events and performances.
This palace also houses the Split City Museum, where you can learn even more about the history and culture of Split.
- Tickets for Diocletian’s Palace are free!
2. Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Locally known as Sveti Duje, this is one of the most remarkable Split attractions, housing the crypt of Emperor Diocletian, and it’s just a minute’s walk from the palace.
This cathedral is the oldest in Europe and consists of two parts: the church dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the bell tower of Saint Domnius. The building is constructed from various materials and in Romanesque style, which is evident in the wooden doors and the sculptures in the bell tower. From the top of this bell tower, you also get a stunning view of the entire city.
- Tickets for the Cathedral of St. Domnius start at €3.00
Tip: just behind the cathedral lies the fantastic LVXOR cafe. Locals and tourists gather here in the evenings, dancing on the street and creating a cultural experience at this unique location. As a spectator, you can enjoy a drink on the ancient steps, especially during the balmy summer evenings.
3. Parade on Pjaca square
Pjaca, officially named Narodni Trg but commonly referred to as Pjaca by locals, is just a 3-minute walk from both the cathedral and the palace and is a spot not to be missed.
This square is the bustling center of the city and a prime location for street musicians and performers to showcase their talents to both locals and tourists. Whether you’re strolling across the square or taking a moment to sit at a café for a drink, the lively atmosphere is undeniable and is an experience in itself.
4. The Riva Promenade
Once you’ve explored Pjaca Square, walk 180 meters towards the harbor and you’ll find yourself on Split’s lively promenade.
One of the city’s most vibrant spots. It’s a delightful place to be, bustling with activity both day and night. Stalls, terraces, nightlife venues—it’s all happening at the Riva. The sea, combined with palm trees and atmospheric evening lighting, guarantees a holiday vibe.
5. Marjan Hill, a true highlight of Split
The top of the hill can be reached by first climbing a staircase of 220 steps to the viewpoint, followed by another 314 steps. As a reward for this climb, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of the city and its surroundings.
If you’d rather not climb all those steps, you can choose to sit at the bar or restaurant at Teraca Vidilica, where you’ll also have a panoramic view. Parking is available at this location, making it ideal if you’re less mobile or simply don’t feel like walking but still want to enjoy the view.
- The restaurant doesn’t have a website but can be found on Facebook and Instagram.
Additionally, there are plenty of other walking and cycling routes through the beautiful green park full of trees, allowing you to enjoy this oasis of tranquility without climbing all the steps.
6. Relax in Sustipan
A 17-minute walk or an 8-minute drive from Teraca Vidilica, you’ll find Sustipan.
The park is named after the former St. Stephen’s Monastery (Sustipansko groblje in Croatian) from the Monastery of St. Stephen. This park with pine trees was used as a final resting place for Croatian kings. Since the 19th century, this park was the first cemetery outside the city of Split.
After the destruction of this cemetery, only a stone pavilion remains, and it has become a peaceful spot where you can find yourself surrounded by greenery. Enjoy this oasis of tranquility and the stunning sea view; it’s also a perfect spot to watch the sunset at the end of the day.
- There is a parking lot with the same name just a 2-minute walk from the park.
7. Kasjuni Beach
This number one beach in Split is about 3.5 kilometers from the city center and just a 10-minute drive from Marjan Hill and only 6 minutes from Sustipan.
The beach is easily accessible, and there’s a large parking area with plenty of spaces, although finding a spot can still be challenging due to the multiple resorts located nearby.
Once you’ve secured your spot, you can walk to the beach with your beach bag and enjoy the sun on the long stretch of sand with its turquoise waters. There’s no shortage of activities on the beach, with regular events like snorkeling, kayaking, and jet skiing.
If it gets too hot for you, or if the heat becomes overwhelming, the trees from the Marjan Forest provide ample shade whenever you need it!
Want to taste the local cuisine alongside exploring cultural attractions? Check out various restaurants in Split!
Besides Split, Croatia boasts several spectacular cities like Zagreb and Dubrovnik, which you can explore by bike in just a few hours with a local guide! After these tours, you’ll know exactly what to do in Split, Zagreb & Dubrovnik.
