13 Unique Things to Do in Split, Croatia on Your First Visit

Are you planning a trip to Croatia for the first time and wondering what there is to do in Split?

Split is one of those cities that completely surprised me, in the best way possible! Nestled along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, it’s a place where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with beach clubs, sea views, and spritz-filled afternoons.

We spent several days soaking in the energy of this coastal city: wandering through Diocletian’s Palace, sipping cocktails on the Riva, hiking up Marjan Hill, and island hopping through some of the most beautiful spots I’ve ever seen.

Now I’m sharing 13 of the best things to do in Split for first-time visitors, including some hidden gems and unique activities as well as tourist favorites.

Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, beachgoer, or just someone looking for a laid-back place to explore, there are plenty of ways to spend your days in Split, Croatia. Keep reading to discover my favorite things to do in Split!

#1. Stroll the Riva Promenade

The Riva is the heart of Split and the perfect place to start your trip. This wide, palm-lined promenade runs along the Adriatic Sea and is always buzzing with life. Locals and travelers alike gather here to sip espresso, take sunset strolls, or dance the night away.

During the day, it’s laid-back and breezy. We loved grabbing brunch on the Riva at Brasserie On 7, one of the outdoor patio restaurants right in front of the water.

But the Riva really comes alive in the late afternoon and evenings, especially on weekends. Street performers show up, market stands open, music fills the air, and every café and bar along the waterfront gets packed with people. It’s a similar vibe to Old Town Dubrovnik, but more open and casual.

We found ourselves returning to the Riva multiple times a day, grabbing coffee in the morning, strolling in the afternoon, and sipping cocktails in the evening. It’s also one of the best places in Split to watch the sunset, with golden light bouncing off the water and the boats gently swaying in the harbor.

I highly recommend staying close to the Riva for convenience. During our 3 days in Split, we stayed in an apartment that overlooked the Riva with incredible harbor views, and we were just a few minutes walk from Diocletian’s Palace as well!

#2. Grab a Cocktail and Watch the Sunset

There’s no better way to wind down after a day of exploring than with a cocktail in hand and a front-row seat to one of Split’s incredible sunsets. The city faces south over the Adriatic, but you can head to the east side of the Riva for awesome sunset views!

One of our favorite spots for sunset drinks was ROOF 68, a rooftop bar just steps from the Riva with panoramic views of the harbor and Old Town. The cocktails were a little overpriced, but the vibes were great, with music playing as the sky turned shades of pink and orange.

Another great place to grab a drink is Marjan Hill Restaurant, where you can sip a spritz while looking out over the entire city (more on that below). Or, if you’re in the mood for something casual, any of the bars along the Riva offer a great view.

No matter where you go, make sure to time your drinks for golden hour. Split’s sunsets are magical, and watching one with a local wine or cocktail in hand quickly became one of our favorite daily rituals!

#3. Explore Diocletian’s Palace

No trip to Split is complete without exploring Diocletian’s Palace – it’s the heart of the city, and unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in Europe! Built in the 4th century by Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement home, the palace isn’t just a historical monument but a living part of Split.

Today, the palace is a maze of narrow stone alleys, hidden courtyards, and bustling squares filled with shops, restaurants, and apartments. Locals still live and work within its ancient walls, which gives it an authentic, lived-in feel that sets it apart from other UNESCO sites.

The main focus of the Palace is the Peristyle, the palace’s central courtyard, where you’ll find Roman columns and even a sphinx imported from Egypt. We loved visiting the Peristyle throughout all times of day: early morning for photos, mid-day for exploring, and at night for relaxing and entertainment.

In the evenings, you’ll find people gather around the Peristyle to listen to music or performers, often with a drink in hand. One of the restaurants lays out cushions on the Peristyle steps – which was the perfect place to relax! We visited here multiple times, either with a gelato in hand or a glass of wine.

The main sites of Diocletian’s Palace are free to enter. However, other areas, like the cellars/basement, the Cathedral, and Jupiter’s Temple require a small fee to visit! You can read more about the ticket costs in this Guide to Diocletian’s Palace.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this is also where you’ll find Daenerys’ throne room in the show, located in the palace’s underground basements.

We personally only visited the basements and then explored the free parts of the Palace on our own. However, if I were to return to Split, I would definitely book a walking tour to learn more about the history of the Palace from a local!

There wasn’t too much signage around the free parts of the Palace, so I felt like a lot of the history was lost on me.

#4. Go on a Game of Thrones Tour

Speaking of walking tours, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you might consider doing a Game of Thrones-specific walking tour in Split!

While Dubrovnik has the majority of Game of Thrones film locations in the country, Split still has some lesser known spots you can check out!

The most famous filming spot in Split is the basement of Diocletian’s Palace, which doubled as Daenerys’ throne room in Meereen, as well as some other fighting scenes throughout Meereen. When we visited, the museum guide clued us into exactly which scenes were filmed here, which was a nice surprise!

You can book a Game of Thrones walking tour like this one that includes visiting the different areas of Diocletian’s Palace like the Vestibul and the Basements, as well as the Split City Museum, which houses an Iron Throne!

Some tours also include a visit to Klis Fortress, located just 20 minutes outside the city. This dramatic hilltop fortress was used for exterior shots of Meereen and offers incredible panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic coastline. It’s one of the most beautiful Game of Thrones locations in Croatia!

This tour includes a stop at Klis Fortress as well as a local Olive Oil museum, another fun thing to do in Split!

While we didn’t do a Game of Thrones tour while in Split (we saved that for Dubrovnik), I still highly recommend it if you are a Game of Thrones lover!

#5. Climb Marjan Hill

For some of the best views in Split, head to Marjan Hill, a forest-covered park that rises above the city’s western edge. It’s the perfect escape if you want a break from the crowds and a dose of nature with panoramic views!

There are several trails leading up the hill, but the most popular starts just a short walk from Old Town. Once you reach the Riva, head southwest along the waterfront until you reach the bend in the road.

After the bend, continue down that road and just before turning left, you’ll see the first set of stairs (shown in the first photo below).

Keep an eye out for “Marjan Park” signs to guide you! You can also search for “Marjan Hill Stairs” on Google Maps for the exact location.

After climbing a series of stairs, you’ll reach the Prva Vidilica na Marjanu (First Viewpoint), which offers sweeping views of the Riva, Split’s terracotta rooftops, and the sparkling sea.

Keep going a bit further and you’ll reach Marjan Hill Restaurant and Bar, where we stopped for lunch and Aperol spritzes on their outdoor terrace. It’s casual and the food was just okay, but the views are hard to beat. We ended up spending over an hour here just relaxing, rehydrating, and soaking in the scenery!

If you continue deeper into the park, there are even more trails, secluded beaches, and old chapels to explore. You could easily spend a few hours or even a whole afternoon here if you’re up for it!

#6 Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park

If you’re craving a break from city life and want to see one of Croatia’s most stunning natural spots, a day trip to Krka National Park is a must.

Located about 90 minutes from Split, Krka is famous for its series of cascading waterfalls and emerald-green pools surrounded by lush forest.

Most people book a guided tour from Split that includes round-trip transportation and several hours inside the park. Or, if you want to rent a car, you can also drive yourself!

Once inside, you’ll follow wooden boardwalks that wind through the park, past waterfalls, fish-filled streams, and thick greenery. The star of the show is Skradinski Buk, a massive, multi-tiered waterfall that looks straight out of a fairytale.

While you can no longer swim beneath the falls (as of 2021), there are still plenty of places to relax, take photos, and enjoy the views, as well as other places where you can swim!

Many tours also include a stop in Skradin, a small riverside town that’s a great place to grab lunch or a glass of wine before heading back to Split.

#7. Explore Neighboring Islands like Hvar and Vis

One of the best things about Split (especially when compared to Dubrovnik) is how easy it is to hop on a boat and explore the nearby islands! The city’s ferry terminal is just steps from Old Town, or there are tons of day trip options on smaller boats, whether you want to relax, party, or sightsee.

For our second day in Split, we booked a 5-island speedboat tour and it was hands-down one of the most memorable experiences of our time in Croatia. The tour started early in the morning from the Split harbor and included stops at some of the most jaw-dropping locations in the Adriatic.

First, we visited the Blue Cave on the island of Biševo. This sea cave is famous for its glowing blue water caused by sunlight reflecting through an underwater opening. It’s one of those places that actually looks as magical in real life as it does in photos!

Next, we cruised to Vis, a peaceful island with charming villages and military history where Mamma Mia 2 was filmed! We had time to grab a coffee and explore the waterfront before continuing to Stiniva Cove, a stunning beach tucked between two towering cliffs. You can only reach it by boat or hiking in, and swimming into that cove was such a surreal moment.

We also stopped at the Pakleni Islands, a string of small islands just off the coast of Hvar. Here, we swam, sipped cocktails, and had a late lunch at a beachfront restaurant surrounded by palm trees and the most gorgeous turquoise water.

Finally, we made a quick stop in Hvar Town to explore before heading back to Split. It was a long day (about 10–11 hours total), but so worth it! This tour gave us a taste of Croatia’s island magic without needing to plan multiple ferry rides or overnight stays.

If you have just one day to explore beyond Split, this 5-island Blue Cave boat tour is the way to do it. Or, you can always plan to spend a few nights in neighboring islands if you have more time!

Read my full breakdown of this boat tour from Split here! 🩵🛥️

#8. Watch the Sunset at Kasjuni Beach

Kasjuni Beach is one of Split’s best beach spots, and it’s especially magical at sunset! Tucked away on the southern slopes of Marjan Hill, this beach offers a quieter and more scenic vibe than the more central Bačvice Beach.

We took a 10-minute Uber here in the late afternoon from Old Town Split and rented a couple of beach chairs from Joe’s Beach Lounge & Bar, which also serves food and drinks right on the sandy shore. The vibe here is laid-back and local, with calm waters perfect for swimming and a mix of soft music and chatter from the nearby beach bar.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the cliffs around the bay glowed in golden light, and we were treated with a gorgeous sunset over the cliffs beyond. We honestly could’ve stayed here all day and night, sipping Aperol spritzes and swimming in the sea!

This is the perfect late afternoon/evening activity in Split – don’t miss it!

#9. Take a Nighttime SUP or Kayak Tour

One of the most unique activities to do in Split is a nighttime stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) tour. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to do this during our trip, but it’s definitely on my list for next time!

These guided tours typically start just before sunset and continue after dark. The boards are outfitted with LED lights that illuminate the water beneath you, attracting fish and casting a colorful glow as you paddle along the coastline.

If you’re not comfortable paddle boarding, you can also do a similar tour in kayaks instead!

#10. Go Wine Tasting

Croatia is home to some amazing (and underrated!) wines, and Split is a fantastic place to try them. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a full-on connoisseur, there are plenty of places in and just outside of town to enjoy a tasting.

We actually did a wine tasting as part of our transfer from Split to Dubrovnik in the town of Ston! Our guide at the winery introduced us to several regional varietals, including Pošip (a crisp white from the island of Korčula) and Plavac Mali (a bold red that’s often compared to Zinfandel).

There are several wine tasting tour options that leave from Split as well, like this tour that combines a few hours at Krka Waterfalls, lunch in Skradin, and a tasting at a local winery!

You don’t need a formal tour to try wines in Split, though. There are also several cozy wine bars tucked into the Old Town streets. One of our favorites was Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar, which had a great vibe and knowledgeable staff who helped us choose some amazing pours.

Wine tasting is a fun and easy way to learn more about Croatian culture, and it’s a great pre-dinner activity while you’re in Split!

#11. Hit the Beach

You can’t visit Split and not hit the beach, especially if you are visiting in the summer or early fall!

Split has several beaches, but Bačvice Beach is the most iconic, and one of the few sandy beaches in Croatia! Just a 10-minute walk from Old Town, it’s popular with locals and tourists alike. During the day, it’s buzzing with people swimming, sunbathing, and playing picigin — a traditional Croatian ball game that originated right here.

If you’re looking for something a bit more scenic and low-key, head to Kasjuni Beach on the edge of Marjan Hill (the one I mentioned for sunset). It’s more pebbly but surrounded by nature and has a beach club with chairs and food service.

We also loved Trstenik Beach, located a short Uber ride from the city center. It’s quieter than Bačvice and perfect if you want to swim in clear water and avoid the bigger crowds. We actually visited this beach hoping to go to the Mistral Beach Club, part of the Raddison Blu hotel.

Unfortunately, the beach club was closed for refurbishment when we visited in late September, so we didn’t get to experience the DJ and pool-side cabanas here. Instead, we took advantage of the free lounge chairs and straw umbrellas just down the beach. We had the place almost to ourselves, so it was very relaxing!

No matter which one you choose, Split’s beaches are the perfect way to unwind after a morning of sightseeing.

#12. Try a Croatian Cooking Class

If you love to cook (or eat!), a Croatian cooking class is one of the most fun things to do in Split and an interactive way to immerse yourself in local culture. Split has several options where you can learn to make traditional Dalmatian dishes like peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables under a bell), fresh seafood, and homemade pasta.

Most classes start with a trip to the local green market or fish market where you’ll pick out ingredients with your chef. From there, you’ll head to the kitchen to prepare a full meal, usually with plenty of local wine included.

We didn’t get a chance to do a cooking class in Split, but it’s high on my list for next time. Many classes are small-group and held in local homes, which adds to the charm and gives you an inside look at everyday life in Croatia!

#13. Stroll Through Old Town at Night

Split’s Old Town feels completely different after dark, in the best way. As the sun sets and the crowds thin out, the ancient stone streets take on a quiet, romantic vibe. The area feels totally safe, even for young female travelers!

This is the perfect time to wander through Diocletian’s Palace without the daytime rush and discover hidden alleys lit by warm, golden light. We loved walking through the Peristyle courtyard in the evening, where live music echoes through the palace walls. Tourists sit on the steps sipping wine, kids run around playing, and the whole area feels alive but peaceful at the same time.

Many restaurants and wine bars in Old Town open their patios at night, so it’s easy to find a cozy spot to enjoy a glass of Croatian wine or a late dinner. We had an amazing seafood dinner on the patio of Konoba Korta, which I highly recommend checking out!

You can also check out Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar for incredible food and delicious orange wine. And don’t miss the famous gelato at Gelateria Emiliana (but prepare for a long line). We often ended our nights just strolling with gelato in hand, soaking in the magic of Split at night.

We also loved hitting up some local bars while in Split! Our favorite ones we visited were the Daltonist Craft Bar and Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar, which both had great cocktails and fun atmospheres.

Final Thoughts

Split quickly became one of my favorite cities in all of Europe! There’s just something about the mix of ancient history, sparkling sea views, laid-back cafes, and spritz-filled afternoons that makes it impossible not to love.

Whether you’re spending a few days here or using it as a base for island hopping and day trips, there’s no shortage of things to do in Split. From climbing Marjan Hill for panoramic views to sipping cocktails on the Riva and exploring Roman ruins inside Diocletian’s Palace, you won’t regret adding Split to your Croatia itinerary.

My favorite thing we did during our time in Split was our full-day 5 Island Boat Tour. This is something I’d recommend to everyone visiting Split!

If you’re curious about our detailed experience and whether it’s worth the money, make sure to check out my full review of the tour here!

Read More Croatia Blog Posts Below! ⬇️🇭🇷
Should You Visit Croatia In September? Here’s What To Expect
Split Or Dubrovnik: Which City In Croatia Should You Visit?
7 Day Croatia Itinerary: ULTIMATE Croatia Itinerary For First Timers
3 Day Split Itinerary: The Perfect 3 Days In Split, Croatia
13 Unique Things To Do In Split, Croatia On Your First Visit
Is The Blue Cave Tour From Split Worth It? Full Guide!
5 Ways To Get From Split To Dubrovnik: A Detailed Guide
How To Spend 2 Days In Dubrovnik: PERFECT Dubrovnik Itinerary!
Where To Stay In Dubrovnik For First-Timers (With Map!)
15 Unforgettable Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia!
Game Of Thrones Dubrovnik Guide: Locations, Tours, & More
How To Plan A Game Of Thrones Croatia Trip: Film Locations, Episodes, & Tours

Don’t forget to pin this post for future planning!