Three Days in Split: A complete guide to exploring Croatia including the charm and beauty of Croatia’s coastal gem city.

Nestled along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, Split is a perfect blend of ancient history and modern charm, offering an incredibly unique escape.

Whether you’re wandering through the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace or savoring fresh seafood by the sea, this city invites you to explore its rich heritage and beautiful landscapes.

My husband and I visited Croatia in April 2024 and fell in love immediately. We started our Croatian travels in Zagreb (read that travel guide here) and Plitvice Lakes National Park (read that post here) before making our way to the coastal city of Split.

After seeing plenty of photos of Split on Pinterest, Instagram, and other blogs, I was still in awe with the city once I was seeing it with my own eyes :).

There’s nothing better than a destination exceeding your expectations – is there?

In a rush?

The Little Details

How to Get to Split

Having started our Croatian adventure by flying from San Diego to London to Zagreb, we used a rental car to drive ourselves from Zagreb to Split.

We chose this option because we wanted to spend two nights in Pltivice Lakes National Park without doing any backtracking from any cities.

This allowed us the opportunity to see a very different city from Split (Zagreb) to start our holiday.

While doing a one way car rental does add on a nominal fee, I absolutely loved that the capital city of Zagreb was our first introduction to this incredible country and would highly recommend doing this if you have both Plitvice Lakes and Split on your itinerary.

We used Hertz as this is the rental car company we are most comfortable with however you can find many other car rental options here.

With Google Maps, we had no problem navigating the Croatian roads from Zagreb to Plitvice to Split.

We were also able to do a quick bathroom stop in the town of Sibenik before continuing on to drop off our car at the Split Airport and then taking a taxi to our Split accommodations.

If you choose to not rent your own car, here are some other options for getting to Split:

By Air

Split Airport (SPU):

• Split Airport, also known as Resnik Airport, is the main airport serving the city and is located about 24 kilometers (15 miles) from the city center.
• Direct flights are available from many European cities, especially during the summer season. For travelers from other parts of the world, connecting flights are often available through major European hubs like Frankfurt, Munich, or London.
• Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, shuttle bus, or rent a car to reach the city center. The shuttle bus service is affordable and runs frequently, providing a convenient option for travelers.

By Ferry

Ferry Services:

• If you’re already in Europe, taking a ferry to Split can be a scenic and enjoyable experience. Regular ferry services connect Split with several Italian cities, including Ancona, Bari, and Venice.
• Jadrolinija and SNAV are two major ferry operators offering routes to Split. These ferries provide an opportunity to relax and enjoy the Adriatic Sea before arriving in Split.

How to Get Around Split

Getting around Split is easy and convenient, with most attractions within walking distance in the charming city center.

For exploring further, the city offers a reliable public bus system, and taxis and rideshare services including Uber are readily available.

Best Time of Year to Visit Split

The best time to visit Split, Croatia, is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April and May) and fall (October and November) when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the crowds are smaller.

These months offer ideal conditions for exploring the historic sites, potentially enjoying the beaches, and experiencing local culture at a relaxed pace.

Our 3 days in Split were April 22-26, 2024 and while I cannot say we had the city to ourselves, we were told the crowds in June/July can be shoulder to shoulder in the skinny streets of Old Town.

We only noticed a cruise ship crowd on Dioklecijanova Ulica one afternoon that a large ship was in port ;0 (photo below).

How Many Days You Need in Split

For a relaxing and thorough exploration of Split, Croatia, three days is ideal as referenced in this post :).

Three days would allow you to fully enjoy the city’s historic sites as well as do a day trip to a surrounding island without feeling rushed.

We arrived at the Split airport around 2pm on a Monday and then proceeded to enjoy Tuesday-Thursday exploring the city before leaving for Dubrovnik on Friday.

You can see our full itinerary at the bottom of this post.

Money and Plug Details in Croatia

Croatia uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. We predominantly used Apple Pay from our Iphones or credit cards but occasionally wanted to pay with cash.

In this case, we had leftover Euros from our December trip to Germany (read that travel guide here).

However if you don’t have any leftover Euros lying around (because well really – who does?!), I would suggest using a BANK ATM in Croatia to get maybe between 100 to 200 Euros for your entire trip for instances when you will want to pay with cash instead of credit card.

In Croatia, including Split, you’ll need Type C and F plugs for your electronics, with a standard voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.

I bring this extension cord with me everywhere I travel and these adapters when traveling to Europe.

Best Places to Stay in Split

Cornaro Hotel

The Cornaro Hotel offers a luxurious stay with modern amenities and its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the historic sites and vibrant culture of Split.

This was our home base for our 4 nights in the city – chosen for its location right outside the city gates.

We reserved the deluxe room with a sea and city view and were able to sleep with the window open every night during our spring trip :).

Cornaro Hotel also has a rooftop bar and restaurant that is the perfect place to end your exploring days.

Hotel Ambasador

Hotel Ambasador offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, conveniently located near the historic city center, making it an ideal choice for any luxury travel vacation.

Photos courtesy of Hotel Ambasador Instagram

Heritage Hotel 19

Located in the heart of the city, Heritage Hotel 19 provides easy access to Split’s rich cultural attractions and vibrant local scene.

This boutique hotel offers a unique and authentic stay right in the middle of it all.

Photos courtesy of Heritage Hotel 19 Instagram

Hotel Vestibul Palace

Hotel Vestibul Palace, nestled within the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace in Split, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury.

This boutique hotel provides personalized service and elegant accommodations, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking a refined experience in the heart of the city.

Photos courtesy of Hotel Vestibul Palace Instagram

Best Places to Eat in Split

If you are looking for a more extensive list than these few recommendations, be sure to read this Timeout article (my go to for restaurant recommendations!).

Pizzeria Portas

Upon Googling ‘best pizza’ in Old Town Split, this pizzeria was in the top 3. And within a five minute walk of our hotel, Cornaro Hotel.

So on our first night in town, this was a no brainer for us :).

Dujkin Dvor

The front desk clerk at our hotel told us this is her all time favorite local restaurant in Split so of course we had to eat here for our second dinner in town ;0.

Chops Grill

Since we are not big seafood eaters (which is a mainstay in Dalmation foods), finding the best steak in Split was a dinnertime goal for us – and we found it at perfectly located Chops Grill…

Trattoria Tinel

Located in the quaint neighborhood of Varos, Trattoria Tinel offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with delicious traditional Croatian dishes.

Bobis Bakery

If you are looking for something quick to eat on the go – Bobis Bakery has some amazing options, especially the local Soparnik!

Top Things to See in Split

Gregory of Nin Statue and the Golden Gate

Visiting the iconic Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski in Croatian) statue by the Golden Gate is a must-do in Split.

Legend has it that rubbing the statue’s big toe brings good luck, making it a fun and memorable stop on your journey.

The Golden Gate next to the statue is the grandest and most impressive of the four entrances to the ancient Diocletian’s Palace.

Originally built as the main entrance, it features intricate carvings and historical significance, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Diocletian’s Palace

Built 1700 years ago, what is locally known as “The Palace” is now simply Split’s oldest neighborhood.

While it is likely the most well known of sights to see in Split, 1000’s of residents still live inside the walls of the Palace and is one of the best preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world ;0.

If you visit in April like we did, you will have plenty of opportunities to see Peristil, the central square of Diocletian’s Palace, with minimal crowds :).

Cathedral of Saint Domnius and Bell Tower

Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and its bell tower offers a glimpse into Split’s rich history, with roots tracing back to the Roman Emperor Diocletian.

As one of the oldest cathedrals in the world, it stands as a testament to the city’s enduring cultural and architectural significance.

Purchase tickets in the ticket office onsite in Peristil square for a combination of sights.

We purchased what is called the “purple ticket” because it was raining on our 3rd day in the city and we knew we would be limited on walking around outside.

The most famous part of the cathedral is the doorposts carved in walnut wood in 1214 whose two wings depict scenes from the Gospels.

Again – another BIG reason to visit during off season – no crowds on the bell tower as it is a one way up and down tower with many parts a little hairy if you are afraid of heights (just don’t look down!).

The Temple of Jupiter (Treasury)

As part of our “Purple Ticket” that we purchased, we also gained entrance to a very small room located off of Peristil called The Temple of Jupiter.

This very small but impressive well preserved ancient Roman temple dedicated to the god Jupiter, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Roman Empire.

Ethnographic Museum

If you happen to hit a very rainy day while visiting Split, there are many entertaining options to get out of the rain including the Ethnographic Museum.

This museum offers a glimpse into Croatia’s cultural heritage through its diverse collection of traditional costumes, crafts, and artifacts.

Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the region’s folk traditions and historical daily life.

During our April 2024 visit, tickets were 6 Euro each and cash only but worth about 45 minutes to an hour of our rainy day ;).

Old Town Split

Strolling through Old Town Split is like stepping back in time, with its charming cobblestone streets and historic architecture.

With many quaint shops, town squares including the People’s Square (try to visit this square during sunset :)), and gelato or bakeries for snacks, you could get lost for hours in Old Town Split.

Split Green Market

The Green Market is a vibrant hub where you can find an array of fresh, local produce and artisanal goods.

It’s the perfect spot to experience the local culture and pick up unique souvenirs while enjoying the lively atmosphere of the city.

Marjan Hill

Marjan Hill offers stunning panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a scenic hike.

The hill is adorned with beautiful pine forests and charming paths, providing a peaceful escape from the city hustle.

We took a couple of hours on our first full day in Split to walk from the Riva all the way around Marjan hill to enjoy all the different viewpoints.

Varoš Neighborhood

A can’t miss when you are going to and from Marjan Hill, the Varoš neighborhood boasts narrow, winding streets and historic stone houses, giving you a glimpse into Split’s traditional past and vibrant local culture.

Getting lost in the streets of Varoš was probably my favorite thing to do in Split! You will truly get a feel for the city by just wandering around this hilly neighborhood :).

Split Riva

The Split Riva is an energetic waterfront promenade that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Lined with cafes and restaurants (not necessarily the best in town fyi), the Riva is an ideal spot to relax while watching the world go by (ie – people watch!).

In the evening, the Riva is a place to find the lively nightlife of Split.

Game of Thrones Sights

I mean – I had to mention these – right???

Here’s a list of Game of Thrones filming sites perfect for anyone interested in exploring the show’s iconic locations in Old Town Split:

• Diocletian’s Palace Substructures
• Scene: The palace’s underground chambers served as the setting for Daenerys Targaryen’s throne room and the place where she kept her dragons in captivity during Season 4.

• Papalićeva Street
• Scene: This narrow, medieval street was used for the exterior scenes in Meereen, where the Unsullied soldiers are ambushed in Season 4.

• Vestibule of Diocletian’s Palace
• Scene: The Vestibule, an ancient domed structure, is where Daenerys meets the citizens of Meereen during her time in the city.

• Peristil Square
• Scene: This central courtyard of Diocletian’s Palace was transformed into the streets of Meereen, where Daenerys confronts the city’s elite.

Game of Thrones Museum

Okay – not at all a filming sight but hey – a fun place to spend half an hour learning about the filming of GOT in Croatia ;0.

A Day Trip to a Local Island

We spent our third full day in Split on the island of Hvar. You can read that day trip guide here.

Visiting in April, we avoided the crowds in Croatia however you do miss out on beach going weather as well as Hvar Town nightlife.

Since we are in our 50’s and my husband is a fair skinned redhead and I am not a fan of going in any bodies of water (don’t ask!) – we are okay missing both of those…

Therefore using the Jadrolinija ferry to get to/from Hvar for one full day was perfect for us!

What to Wear in Split in Spring

For an April visit to Split pack layers like light sweaters and a waterproof jacket, as the weather can be cool and unpredictable.

But even with temperatures in the mid to high 60’s (f), when walking in the warm mediterranean sun all day, you can expect to get rather warm ;0.

Comfortable walking shoes are also essential for exploring the cobblestone or slippery when wet marble streets as well as a light raincoat.

While my exact dress above is no longer available, this similar style is pretty dang cute!!

And my absolute favorite wide leg pants are a staple for me when I travel :).

I also can no longer wear a dress without my favorite cooling shorties underneath!!

Our April 2024 Croatia Itinerary Day to Day Overview

DAY 1 | Fly from San Diego to Zagreb via London on British Airways

DAY 2 | Arrive in Zagreb 8pm

DAY 3 | Zagreb: wander streets, take Funicular to top, explore Saint Mark’s Square, lunch at Konoba Didov San, Museum of Broken Relationships, Stone Gate

DAY 4 | Zagreb: explore August Cesarec neighborhood, Tunel Gric, Gornjogradska Gimnazija viewpoint, Zagreb City Museum, dinner at Le Premier Boutique Hotel

DAY 5 | Get rental car and drive 2 hours to Plitvice Lakes National Park

DAY 6 | Plitvice Lakes National Park

DAY 7 | Drive 3 hours to Split (return car at airport), dinner at Portas Pizzeria

DAY 8 | Split: Diocletian’s Palace, Stari Pazar market, Split port, Marjan park and viewpoint, Varos neighborhood, dinner at Konoba Dujkin Dvor, sunset at People’s Square

DAY 9 | Split: Cathedral of St Domnius and belltower, Ethnographic Museum, Game of Thrones Museum, shop on Diocletian’s Street, Temple of Jupiter, Treasury, dinner at Chops Grill

DAY 10 | Day trip from Split to Hvar Island: Stari Grad and Hvar Town

DAY 11 | Used Daytrip company to drive us from Split to Dubrovnik with stops at Rizman Winery and Ston

DAY 12 | Dubrovnik: 7am Flytographer photo shoot, Fort Lovrijenac, shop on Placa and Ulica od Puca (Street of the Wells), Old Town and Wall, Franciscan Monastery, Dubrovnik Cable Car to Fort Imperial viewpoint, St Blaise’s Church, dinner at Bura Bistro

DAY 13 | Dubrovnik: day at the beach, Buza Bar, Jesuit Stairs, Dubrovnik Cathedral, snack at Holy Burek, dinner at Taj Mahal,

DAY 14 | Flight from Dubrovnik to London Gatwick (2.5 hour flight)

DAY 15 | Fly to San Diego from London on British Airways

I hope you found this post helpful in planning your own three days in Split, Croatia.

Visiting Split for three days in off season offers a perfect blend of mild weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore the city’s rich history and stunning coastal views.

It’s a peaceful and rejuvenating escape, perfect for having a slower, more meaningful journey.

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Life is short, the world is wide.

I want to make some memories.

~Mamma Mia

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Have a wonderful day my friend! I hope something makes you smile today ;).