Dalmatian Dreams: 12 Best Things to Do in Split Croatia

Split, Croatia, is a vibrant city that combines ancient history with modern-day charm. Nicknamed the ‘Summertime Capital of Croatia,’ Split is a popular tourist destination boasting a variety of things to do for all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich history, enjoying its stunning beaches, or discovering its local cuisine, Split offers an array of experiences that are sure to delight. In this blog post, we’llshare our findings from recent visits to create a guide of the 12 best things to do in Split, Croatia.

1. Visit Diocletian’s Palace

No trip to Split is complete without a visit to Diocletian’s Palace. This majestic structure was built in the late 4th century AD by the Roman emperor Diocletian who, after reigning for 20 years, decided to retire and built himself this extravagant retirement home. The palace is UNESCO-listed World Heritage site, making it one of the oldest and best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world. Its narrow, winding streets and intricate layout provide a unique setting to explore ancient Roman ruins, while plenty of bustling markets, shops, and eateries line the pathways.

2. Indulge in a Traditional Croatian Meal

Croatian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Slavic influences, with meals consisting of fresh seafood, vegetarian dishes, and robust meat-grilled specialties. One must-try dish is ‘Peka,’ a traditional lamb preparation that is cooked on a slate over embers, providing a unique taste that can only be found in Split. The Golden Cap Traditional Restaurant, locally known as ‘Kaptol Skylit,’ offers a wide range of traditional specialties, so it’s an ideal spot to introduce yourself to local Croatian cuisine.

3. Soak Up the Sun at Bacvice Beach

A short walk from the city center is Bacvice Beach, where locals and tourists alike often gather to relax, swim, and soak up the sun. This is Croatia’s first and most famous beach and offers a variety of water sports and activities like sailing, jet-skiing, and windsurfing.

4. Stroll Along the Riva

The Riva promenade is where life in Split comes alive. With its lively atmosphere, the Riva offers an excellent setting for a leisurely walk, enjoying some ice cream or coffee from one of the many cafes, and watching the bustling activity all around. This is a perfect spot to watch the world go by and enjoy the Mediterranean ambiance of Split.

5. Explore the Mestrovic Gallery

Named after the famous Croatian sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic, the Mestrovic Gallery is dedicated to showcasing his work, along with other renowned Croatian artists. The permanent collection of more than 200 sculptures, paintings, and other artworks provides an invaluable insight into Croatia’s artistic heritage.

6. Discover the City’s Jewish Heritage

Split has a rich Jewish history, as evidenced by the Etnographic Museum, which tells the story of the Jewish community in Dalmatia. Visitors are treated to various artifacts, from religious items to daily life objects, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the region’s Jewish ancestors.

7. Climb to the Top of the Bell Tower

Clock Tower Strictly speaking, not every visitor can climb to the top of the bell tower; however, the view from the top is worth the effort you’ll need to make! Climbing the narrow stairs to the top of the bell tower offers a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding areas, making it an essential experience when visiting Split.

8. Take a Day Trip to Trogir

Trogir, a small coastal city just a short boat ride from Split, is another UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its well-preserved buildings constructed from local limestone, Trogir is a maze of narrow streets packed with cafes, galleries, and boutiques. You can easily spend an entire day exploring this charming town and its stunning architecture.

9. Visit the Marjan Shrine

The Marjan Shrine is an iconic site in Split dedicated to Our Lady of Assumption, reached by climbing 79 steps. The hilltop provides a stunning view of the city below and the surrounding islands of the Dalmatian archipelago.

10. Grab a Book and Relax at the City’s Libraries

Split’s libraries provide a haven of tranquility and a chance to soak up the city’s intellectual and artistic life. The National and University Library, dating back to the 16th century, has survived multiple wars and has become a hidden gem. The library is home to more than 300,000 books, including some that are priceless.

11. Explore the City’s Music Scene

Music lovers should reserve some time to enjoy music events and performances throughout the city. The Festival of the City of Split is an annual event that attracts talented musicians from all over the world, creating a wonderful atmosphere that also showcases Dalmatian cuisine, arts, and crafts.

12. Trek to the Blue Lagoon

Situated approximately a 30-minute bus ride from Split, the Blue Lagoon is the perfect day trip for those who enjoy swimming in pristine waters and sunbathing on picturesque shores. The lagoon’s brilliant blue waters and sandy beaches attract locals and tourists alike and offer an escape from the buzz of the city.

In conclusion, our list of the best things to do in Split, Croatia, provides just a glimpse into the cultural, historical, and artistic offerings of this beautiful Mediterranean city. Whether basking in the sun at peaceful beaches or immersing yourself in the various UNESCO sites, Split promises an unforgettable vacation packed with Dalmatian charm and hospitality. The city’s remarkable cuisine, rich history, and vibrant culture are just a few of the things waiting to be discovered by those who venture here. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the Dalmatian dreams of Split, Croatia?