What to See in Split: Old Town, Seaside Walks, and Day Trips

Split, Croatia is one of those rare cities where 1,700 years of history meet the laid-back rhythm of the Adriatic Sea. Roman emperors, Venetian merchants, and modern travelers have all fallen under its spell. If you are planning your first visit, you are probably asking yourself what to see in Split: how to balance the maze-like old town, the sun-drenched seaside walks, and the irresistible day trips to the nearby islands and national parks.

In this in-depth guide, you will discover how to structure a memorable Split itinerary, from dawn in Diocletian’s Palace to sunset on the Riva promenade and beyond. We will walk through the must-see landmarks, the best panoramic viewpoints, hidden corners locals love, and the most rewarding day trips from Split for every type of traveler.

Why Split Belongs on Your Mediterranean Bucket List

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, yet it feels more like a lively coastal town. Its compact center is built directly into a Roman palace, its waterfront is framed by palm trees, and in less than an hour you can be swimming off an island bay or hiking through fragrant pine forests. For travelers deciding what to see in Split, this means you can combine culture, nature, and sea in a single day—without rushing.

• History lovers can wander a UNESCO-listed palace that is still very much alive.
• Beachgoers can spend lazy afternoons on golden sand and pebble shores.
• Active travelers can hike, kayak, or cycle along the coast and on nearby islands.
• Foodies will find fresh seafood, Dalmatian wines, and slow-cooked local specialties.

To help you capture the essence of the city, this guide is divided into three core experiences: the old town, seaside walks, and day trips from Split that are worth your time.

Exploring Split Old Town: Inside Diocletian’s Palace

When you think about what to see in Split, the old town is where every itinerary begins. At its heart stands Diocletian’s Palace, a fortress-like complex built in the 4th century AD by the Roman emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence. Today, instead of soldiers and servants, you will find cafés, apartments, tiny shops, and stone alleyways buzzing with life.

Peristyle Square: The Beating Heart of the Palace

The Peristyle (Peristil) is the palace’s central courtyard and one of the most atmospheric places to visit in Split. Flanked by imposing columns and ancient facades, it serves as an open-air stage where history and modern life overlap.

• Architecture: Notice the blend of Roman, medieval, and later additions. The granite columns were imported from Egypt, a reminder of the empire’s vast reach.
• Experiences: During the day, you might hear klapa a cappella singers performing traditional Dalmatian songs. At night, the square transforms into an open-air salon where people linger with drinks on the palace steps.
• Photo tip: Arrive just after sunrise to see the soft light wash over the stone and avoid the tour groups.

Split Cathedral and the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius

Right off Peristyle Square stands the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Sveti Duje), one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use in its original structure. It was originally Diocletian’s mausoleum, later transformed into a church—a poetic twist considering the emperor’s persecution of Christians.

Inside, you will find richly carved wooden choir stalls, intricate stonework, and a small but beautiful treasury. However, the real highlight for many visitors is the bell tower.

• Bell tower climb: A narrow staircase and iron walkways lead you to one of the best viewpoints in Split. From the top, you can see the patchwork of terracotta roofs, the curve of the Riva promenade, and the islands of Brač and Šolta on the horizon.
• Best time to go: Late afternoon or golden hour offers less heat and softer light. Note that on windy days, the top of the tower can feel exposed.

The Basement Halls (Podrumi): Underground Secrets

Beneath the palace lies a labyrinth of vaulted cellars known as the Podrumi. These substructures mirrored the layout of Diocletian’s apartments above and give historians a detailed picture of the original palace.

Today, parts of the basement host small stalls selling souvenirs and local crafts, but the most fascinating sections are the echoing stone halls that feel untouched by time.

• Why visit: The cellars offer a cool escape on hot days and a tangible sense of stepping into ancient Rome.
• Cultural note: Fans of popular TV series may recognize parts of the cellars as filming locations, but their real charm lies in their raw architecture.

The Temple of Jupiter and Narrow Lanes

As you wander north from the Peristyle, you will find the Temple of Jupiter, now a small baptistery. The temple’s coffered ceiling and monumental doorway are remarkably well preserved.

From here, allow yourself to get lost in the palace’s narrow streets. This is where you discover why the old town is one of the most memorable things to see in Split:

• Tiny squares shaded by orange trees.
• Stone staircases leading to hidden terraces.
• Local konobas (traditional taverns) tucked behind unassuming doors.

Listen for church bells, watch laundry fluttering between buildings, and peek into doorways where locals chat over morning coffee. This lived-in atmosphere is what sets Split’s old town apart from open-air museum cities.

Beyond the Palace: Old Town Squares, Markets, and Neighborhoods

While Diocletian’s Palace is the core of Split old town, there is more to explore just outside its ancient walls. These areas reveal the city’s medieval and Venetian layers, as well as its everyday life.

Pjaca (People’s Square): The City’s Living Room

West of the palace, Pjaca—or People’s Square—opens up with elegant facades and bustling cafés. Once the seat of the city’s medieval administration, it is now a favorite meeting point for locals.

• Architecture: Look for the old town hall, the clock tower, and Venetian-era buildings with ornate windows and coats of arms.
• Atmosphere: Come in the morning for a quiet coffee or in the evening when terraces fill with laughter and clinking glasses.

Fruit Square and the Venetian Tower

Just a short walk from Pjaca is Trg Braće Radić, nicknamed “Fruit Square” because of the open-air market that once filled it. Today, you will find a blend of historic monuments and shops.

• The Venetian tower, part of the old city defenses.
• A Renaissance palace that once belonged to the noble Milesi family.
• A statue of the poet Marko Marulić, considered the father of Croatian literature.

The Green Market (Pazar): Everyday Split

If you want to feel the city’s pulse beyond its monuments, head to Pazar, the open-air green market just east of the palace. This is where locals buy fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, cheeses, and homemade products.

Visiting the market is not only about shopping; it is a cultural experience:

• Notice the sing-song rhythm of Dalmatian conversation and bargaining.
• Try seasonal produce like figs, cherries, or mandarins, depending on when you visit.
• Pick up picnic supplies for a day trip to Marjan Hill or one of the beaches.

Seaside Walks in Split: From the Riva to Marjan Hill

Once you have explored the old town, it is time to turn towards the sea. One of the joys of Split is how easy it is to transition from historic streets to open horizons. Whether you prefer leisurely waterfront strolls or more active hikes, the city’s seaside walks are among the most rewarding things to do in Split.

The Riva Promenade: Split’s Front Row Seat to the Sea

The Riva is Split’s famous waterfront promenade, lined with palm trees, cafés, and benches. It stretches along the southern edge of Diocletian’s Palace, making it impossible to miss—and you would not want to.

Here is how to make the most of the Riva:

• Morning: Grab a coffee and join locals in their daily ritual of “fjaka”—a uniquely Dalmatian state of relaxed contentment.
• Afternoon: Watch ferries and catamarans glide in and out of the harbor, bringing travelers to and from the islands.
• Evening: The Riva becomes a stage for street performers, couples on strolls, and families enjoying the cooler air.

For many visitors, simply sitting on the Riva and watching the light change over the sea is one of the most memorable experiences in Split.

West Coast Promenade: A Scenic Extension

From the western end of the Riva, you can continue along the so-called West Coast promenade, a modern waterfront lined with yachts and sleek buildings. This stretch offers uninterrupted views of the city skyline, the harbor, and the forested slopes of Marjan Hill.

It is a great place for:

• An early evening walk before dinner.
• Jogging along the sea if you want to stay active during your trip.
• Watching reflections of the city lights dance on the water after dark.

Marjan Hill: Panoramic Views and Forest Trails

Rising behind Split’s old town, Marjan Hill is often described as the city’s green lungs. Pine forests, jogging paths, small churches, and secluded bays make it an ideal escape from the summer crowds.

The Classic Viewpoint: Telegrin and the First Lookout

Most visitors start their Marjan adventure at the famous viewpoint above the old town. To reach it, follow the steps that begin near the Varoš neighborhood, a traditional quarter with stone houses and narrow lanes.

At the first lookout, you will find a terrace café and postcard-perfect views of Split’s old town, port, and the islands. From here, you can continue up to the Telegrin summit, the highest point of Marjan, marked by a large cross.

• View: On clear days, you can see as far as the islands of Hvar and Vis.
• Timing: Sunset is particularly stunning, but mornings are quieter and cooler.

Walking and Cycling Around Marjan

A paved road loops around Marjan Hill, offering sweeping sea views and access to several beaches. This makes it one of the best seaside walks in Split for those who want a bit of exercise without a strenuous hike.

• Walk or cycle along the south side for panoramic views over the Adriatic.
• Stop at tiny chapels and stone benches along the way.
• Pack a swimsuit so you can stop at one of the pebble coves for a refreshing dip.

Best Beaches in Split for a Seaside Break

When you think of what to see in Split, you might first picture monuments—but the beaches are just as memorable. The coastline around the city offers a mix of sandy and pebble spots, many of them reachable on foot or by a short bus ride.

Bačvice Beach: Sandy and Social

Bačvice is Split’s most famous city beach, located just a 10–15 minute walk southeast of the old town. Unlike many Croatian beaches, Bačvice has a shallow sandy bottom, making it popular with families and those who like to wade far out into the water.

• Local tradition: Watch locals playing picigin, a unique ball game played in shallow water that originated here.
• Facilities: Beach bars, cafés, and changing cabins make it easy to spend several hours here.

Marjan’s Beaches: Kašjuni, Bene, and More

Along the slopes of Marjan Hill, several beaches offer a more scenic and relaxed alternative to Bačvice.

• Kašjuni: A sheltered bay with clear water, hemmed in by steep, green hillsides. Great for swimming and sunbathing, with a beach bar open in season.
• Bene: Located on the north side of Marjan, surrounded by pine trees. There is a children’s playground and sports facilities nearby, making it a favorite with local families.
• Smaller coves: As you explore the coastline, you will find smaller pebble bays that are ideal if you prefer quieter spots.

These seaside walks and beaches make it easy to combine cultural sightseeing in Split with time by the water, even if you only have a couple of days in the city.

Essential Day Trips from Split: Islands, National Parks, and Coastal Towns

One of the biggest advantages of staying in Split is how many exceptional day trips you can do without changing hotels. Ferries, catamarans, buses, and organized excursions radiate out from the city, connecting you to islands, waterfalls, and historic coastal towns.

When planning what to see in Split and its surroundings, consider how much time you want to spend on the water versus on foot, and whether you prefer nature, culture, or a mix of both. Below are the most popular and rewarding day trips from Split.

Island-Hopping from Split: Hvar, Brač, and Šolta

The central Dalmatian islands are among the best-known attractions near Split. Each island has a distinct character, so you can choose the one that best fits your travel style—or plan multiple days to explore more than one.

Hvar: Glamour, History, and Island Views

Hvar Town, on the island of Hvar, is famous for its lively nightlife and elegant harbor, but it also offers history and sea views that appeal to all kinds of travelers. Fast catamarans connect Split to Hvar Town in about an hour.

• Stroll along the waterfront promenade lined with cafes and boats.
• Climb up to the Spanish Fortress (Fortica) for spectacular views of the town and the nearby Pakleni Islands.
• Explore stone streets and tranquil squares in the upper part of the old town, where the crowds thin out.

Brač and the Famous Zlatni Rat Beach

The island of Brač is closest to Split, with frequent ferries to the town of Supetar and catamarans to Bol. Brač is known for its white limestone, used in many notable buildings, as well as for one of Croatia’s most photographed beaches: Zlatni Rat.

Zlatni Rat is a pebble beach that extends like a tongue into the sea and subtly changes shape with the currents and wind. It is popular with swimmers, sunbathers, and windsurfers.

• Walk along the shaded promenade from Bol town to the beach.
• Climb Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic islands, for panoramic views.

Šolta: A Quieter Island Escape

If you prefer a slower pace, the island of Šolta is a wonderful choice for a day trip from Split. Less developed than Hvar or Brač, it offers sleepy villages, olive groves, and crystal-clear bays.

Take a ferry to Rogač and then explore small towns like Grohote, Maslinica, or Stomorska. This is a place to savor long lunches, coastal walks, and quiet swims in hidden coves.

National Parks Near Split: Waterfalls and River Canyons

Inland from Split, dramatic landscapes of waterfalls, rivers, and karst canyons await. Even if you are focused on seaside walks and island-hopping, it is worth considering at least one day trip to a national park.

Krka National Park

Krka is the most popular national park day trip from Split, known for its tiered waterfalls and turquoise pools. Boardwalks meander through lush landscapes, allowing visitors to get close to the tumbling water and rich vegetation.

• Visit Skradinski Buk, the largest and most famous waterfall area.
• Take a short boat ride to the island of Visovac with its monastery, if time allows.
• Learn about traditional water mills and historical settlements in the area.

Krka is especially beautiful in spring and early summer, when the water levels are high and the greenery is lush.

Cetina River and Omiš

About 25 km south of Split, the town of Omiš sits at the mouth of the Cetina River, wedged between high cliffs. This area is perfect for travelers who want a mix of seaside scenery and adventure activities.

From Omiš, you can:

• Take a boat trip into the Cetina River canyon.
• Try rafting or zip-lining, depending on the season.
• Climb up to a fortress above the town for sweeping views of the coast.

Historic Coastal Towns: Trogir and Šibenik

If you are asking what to see in Split and its coastal surroundings, two names come up again and again: Trogir and Šibenik. Both are easily reachable and offer rich history in compact, walkable centers.

Trogir: A Miniature Stone Masterpiece

Just about 30 km west of Split, Trogir is a UNESCO World Heritage town perched on a small island connected by bridges. Its maze of narrow lanes, Romanesque and Renaissance buildings, and handsome waterfront make it feel like a time capsule.

• Visit the Cathedral of St. Lawrence and climb its bell tower.
• Stroll the seafront promenade with views of sailboats and nearby islands.
• Explore hidden courtyards and tiny streets behind the main squares.

Šibenik: Fortresses and a Unique Cathedral

Further northwest, Šibenik offers a more local atmosphere and impressive fortifications. The Cathedral of St. James, built entirely of stone without mortar, is a UNESCO-listed masterpiece.

Climb to one of Šibenik’s hilltop fortresses for panoramic views over the town and the sea, and wander its stepped streets lined with stone houses and small churches.

How to Organize Your Split Itinerary

With so many options for what to see in Split, planning your days can feel overwhelming. A simple way to approach your itinerary is to divide your time between the old town, seaside walks and beaches, and one or more day trips.

One-Day Visit: Essential Highlights

If you only have one full day in Split, focus on the must-see sights:

1. Morning: Explore Diocletian’s Palace, Peristyle Square, the cathedral and bell tower, and the basement halls.
2. Midday: Wander through People’s Square and the nearby streets. Grab lunch in the old town.
3. Afternoon: Walk along the Riva and, if time allows, climb to the Marjan viewpoint.
4. Evening: Return to the Riva or the old town squares for dinner and a nighttime stroll.

Two to Three Days: Old Town, Seaside Walks, and One Day Trip

With two or three days, you can balance Split’s core attractions and a taste of its surroundings:

• Dedicate one full day to the old town and Marjan Hill.
• Spend part of another day on a beach like Bačvice or Kašjuni, plus a relaxed evening by the waterfront.
• Use one day for a day trip—to an island like Hvar or Brač, or to Krka National Park or Trogir.

Four or More Days: Deep Dive into Split and Dalmatia

Staying four days or longer lets you experience not just what to see in Split, but also how it feels to live there, at least for a little while. You can:

• Slow down and revisit favorite corners of the old town at different times of day.
• Explore more beaches and seaside walks, including hidden spots on Marjan Hill.
• Plan multiple day trips: perhaps one island, one national park, and one historic town.

Give yourself time for spontaneity as well. Some of the most authentic memories come from unplanned stops at a quiet café, an impromptu swim, or a conversation with a local vendor at the market.

Practical Tips for Enjoying Split’s Old Town, Seaside Walks, and Day Trips

To fully enjoy everything there is to see in Split, a few practical details can make a big difference.

Best Time to Visit Split

Split has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters.

• May, June, and September: Ideal months for combining sightseeing with seaside walks and swimming. The weather is warm but not extreme, and there are fewer crowds than in July and August.
• July and August: Peak season. The city and ferries are busy, but the atmosphere is lively. Plan early starts and late evenings to avoid the hottest hours.
• April and October: Quieter and cooler, suitable for old town exploration and day trips, though some beach bars and seasonal services may be limited.

What to Pack for Split

The combination of cobblestone streets, sunny promenades, and boat trips means packing with versatility in mind.

• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip for exploring the old town and Marjan Hill.
• Light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen for seaside walks and island day trips.
• A swimsuit and quick-drying towel so you can swim whenever you find a tempting bay.
• A light layer for cooler evenings, especially outside the peak summer months.

Getting Around Split and Beyond

Split’s old town and main seaside walks are compact and best explored on foot. For day trips and more distant beaches, you will have several options:

• On foot: Most of the city’s key sights are within walking distance of each other.
• Public buses: Connect to beaches like Bačvice and neighborhoods further from the center.
• Ferries and catamarans: Depart from the main port, adjacent to the Riva, and link Split to the nearby islands.
• Organized tours: Convenient for national parks and more complex day trips if you do not want to drive.

Final Thoughts: What to See in Split for a Balanced Experience

When you look back on your time in Split, chances are your strongest memories will be a mix of small moments and grand views: early morning quiet in Diocletian’s Palace, the first glimpse of the sea from the Marjan viewpoint, the sound of waves under a harbor-side café, and the thrill of approaching an island by boat.

By balancing Split old town, seaside walks, and thoughtful day trips, you will experience the city’s many layers: imperial and medieval, urban and natural, everyday and extraordinary. Whether you stay for a day or a week, Split has a way of making you feel like you could linger just a little longer.