8 Best Things to do in Split, Croatia

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Looking for the best activities to do in Split? Well, you’ve come to the Croatia experts!

Between stunning natural beauty and rich history, Split has plenty of bucket list activities. The problem is a lot of these are off the beaten path making them a pain to get to if you don’t know your way around. That’s why we put together our favorite activities in one convenient place. From national parks and island hopping to exploring ancient Roman palaces, this list has the best of the best.

So keep reading for the 8 must-do things in Split! 

Things to do in Split, Croatia

1. Take a speedboat to Blue Cave, five different islands, and Hvar

• Duration: 10 – 12 hours
• Time: 8 am
• Highlights: Visit five Croatian islands and see the famous Blue Cave, go to a fishing village, snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, explore historic cities, and see some filming locations from the movie Mamma Mia
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, all entry and boat fees (Blue Cave ticket not included), skip-the-line entry to Blue Cave, snorkel equipment
• Rating: 4.8 stars (Read the 5,200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This island-hopping tour wasn’t just a great way to see some beautiful places, but an absolute highlight of our time in Split!

The day started with a boat ride to the Blue Cave, and since we were on this tour, we got to skip the line to buy tickets immediately and go in. The cave felt otherworldly with electric-blue water you have to see to believe. I know I sound dramatic, but it’s true!

Next, we made a stop in Komiža, a charming fishing village. We loved wandering the streets and even had time to get a coffee and watch locals go about their daily lives.

From there, we cruised to Stiniva Cove which is only accessible from the sea. Surrounded by cliffs and deep blue water, it felt like a hidden paradise. The water was so inviting that we couldn’t resist jumping in for a swim!

Our next stop was for some snorkeling at Blue Lagoon. On the way there, we passed by the famous Mamma Mia Beach, Srebrena, for some photos! The snorkeling was incredible, and after getting to swim with hundreds of colorful fish we sipped a cocktail on the beach.

Finally, we arrived in Hvar, a lively spot filled with history, stunning views, and great food. We strolled through the picturesque streets, explored some shops, and finished the day with a delicious seaside lunch. It was nonstop adventure and we can see why it has THOUSANDS of 5-star reviews!

Book one of Split’s best tours easily here!

2. Explore Krka National Park with a food and wine tasting

• Duration: 10 hours
• Time: 8:30 am, 10:30 am
• Highlights: Visit Krka National Park, go swimming, see waterfalls, hike, take a boat ride, enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, round trip transportation from Split pickup point, boat cruise ticket, wine and cheese tasting
• Rating: 4.9 Stars (Read the 6,400+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We’re suckers for the outdoors and good wine so this Krka National Park and wine tasting tour was our favorite tour we took for good reason. It’s a heck of a combo and it doesn’t disappoint! 

Our adventure began with a comfortable bus ride from Split to Krka National Park. Upon arrival, we were greeted by the sight of lush landscapes as we followed our guide. We marveled at waterfalls, especially the renowned Skradinski Buk, and learned all about the local ecosystem from our guide. The ethno-village near the falls offered a glimpse into traditional Croatian life, with its charming watermills and historical exhibits.

After enjoying the park’s natural wonders, we embarked on a boat ride down the Krka River. The views along the way were stunning and our destination was the quaint town of Skradin. Here, we had the opportunity to explore on our own so we took the chance to swim at a nearby beach where the river meets the sea.

The finale was a visit to a local winery and after a day of adventure, nothing is better than a glass of wine (or three!). We were treated to a tasting of Dalmatian wines, accompanied by homemade olive oil, cheese, meat, and bread. The hospitality of the winemakers had us grinning from ear to ear as we talked about the day’s adventure with others in our group.

You can book our favorite tour here and get FREE cancellation!

3. Learn all about Split on a walking tour

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Time: 9:30 am, 11:30 am, 6 pm
• Highlights: Exploring the city with an expert historian, a small and personal tour, passing by top sights like Diocletian’s Palace, Cathedral of Saint Domnius, Temple of Jupiter, and more.
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide with historical education of Croatian history 
• Rating: 5 Stars (Read the 900+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Split is a city rich with history, and this walking tour is the go-to history tour in the city, not to mention one of our favorites we took!

We loved how much ground we covered in a short amount of time. Our guide, Toni, is an expert historian with a deep knowledge of Croatian history. We started at Riva Harbor, where he explained the local side of the city, before making our way into the heart of Old City.

One of the most memorable parts was the majestic Peristyle Square, the heart of Diocletian’s Palace. Toni captivated us with tales of Emperor Diocletian and the palace’s transformation over the centuries.

He took us to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius to see the grave of Emperor Diocletian, then to the Temple of Jupiter to learn about the history of Roman architecture. Toni’s insights truly brought these structures to life, revealing the unique stories they held.

The tour also led us to the iconic Golden Gate, where we saw the statue of Gregory of Nin, who is famous for the spread of the Croatian language. The morning ended on Piazza Square to see Old Town Hall, dating back to the 14th century!

We loved how easy it was to fit this experience into our itinerary and think it’s one of the best tours to take when you first arrive. But don’t just take our word for it, check out all the glowing reviews here!

You can book the best history tour in Split here!

4. Zipline over the Cetina Canyon

• Duration: 3 hours
• Time: 10 am
• Highlights: Zipline over forests, rivers, and canyons on an 8-track zipline course, and see hard-to-reach nature in the mountains near Split 
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, use of zipline equipment 
• Rating: 4.9 Stars (Read the 1,150+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Experiencing the Cetina Canyon is a must when visiting Split, and there’s no better way to do it than by soaring above it on a zipline! This adventure tour offers a unique perspective of one of Croatia’s most stunning natural wonders.

After meeting our guides and a safety briefing, we were ready to embark on the course. The full zipline track consists of eight runs, with the longest stretching 700 meters (2,300 feet) and hanging 150 meters (492 feet) above the canyon floor. Talk about an adrenaline rush!

Stepping off the first platform was a mix of nerves and excitement, but as soon as I began zipping across the canyon, all of my nerves were replaced by “whoo hoo!” The lush greenery, the winding river, and the sheer cliffs were quite the sight. I was nothing but smiles the whole time.

Each zipline offered a new angle of the canyon’s beauty, and the thrill of flying through the air just enhanced the whole experience. The guides were professional and encouraging, ensuring we felt safe while maximizing the fun.

This ziplining tour often sells out, so grab your spot here!

5. Enjoy Croatia’s natural beauty at Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Duration: 12 hours
• Time: 7 am 
• Highlights: Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park a UNESCO World Heritage site, hike, see waterfalls, canyons, lakes and visit hard-to-reach natural wonders
• Inclusions: English-speaking guide, round-trip transportation from Split
• Rating: 4.8 Stars (Read the 1,700+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

If you want to see why Croatia is renowned for its natural beauty there isn’t a better or more convenient way than this full day Plitvice Lakes National Park tour. We were blown away by just how much natural beauty we saw. It’s a must-have experience from Split that’s worth seeing any time of year.

Kicking off with a drive to the national park, our guide kept the ride interesting with fun facts about the park and surrounding area along the way. Upon arrival, we followed our guide as we hiked our way through the breathtaking beauty of the park. I really appreciated how well paced the tour was and at no point did it feel rushed. Which meant plenty of photo ops!

With 16 lakes, over 90 waterfalls, and a thriving ecosystem, Plitvice Lakes National Park is mind-bogglingly beautiful. Between the incredible natural beauty and wildlife, I hardly had any time to blink. However, the highlight of the day for me was Veliki Slap, the park’s largest waterfall. What tied it all together was our phenomenal guide who kept the energy high and was constantly pointing out hidden critters off the trail.

The park is not easily accessible from Split so we loved that we could just chill out on the bus ride back home. We may have been tired by the end of the day, but it was totally worth it!

Read reviews and book this unforgettable national park tour here!

Related Read: To make the most of your time in Split, have a look at our epic 3-day itinerary!

6. Taste your way around Split

• Duration: 3 hours 
• Time: 10:30 am 
• Highlights: Visiting locally beloved food spots, exploring the Green Market and Split Old Town, wine tasting, checking out Marmontova Ulica French shopping street
• Inclusions: Local guide, all food samples amounting to a full meal, dessert, sweet liqueur and/or white wine
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

This food tour of Split was easily one of our favorite ways to get to know the city. Our guide, Vicky, treated us like old friends and took us to a ton of authentic food spots where locals love to eat, but tourists often overlook. For us, that’s what a good food tour is all about!

We started at the vibrant Green Market, where we tasted Dalmatian prosciutto, cheese, and peka bread as we strolled through the aisles. We then continued to explore the Old Town as Vicky shared fascinating stories about Diocletian’s Palace and the medieval People’s Square.

As we got to know the Old Town better, we stopped in several family-run restaurants. For me, the highlight was pasta with mussels and shrimp, which we got to wash down with a traditional liqueur. I also loved the tuna pâté and crisp white wine!

By the time we reached the Riva Promenade, I was pleasantly full but couldn’t resist the final treat, which was a visit to Split’s oldest pastry shop. I did opt for gelato over the traditional cakes, although they did look very tempting!

This tour was so much fun, and gave us a better sense of Split’s character. If you’re the kind of person who likes to get off the tourist track and see how the locals live, this is the perfect experience for you!

Check hundreds of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

7. Cruise to the famous Blue Lagoon and snorkel at a shipwreck 

• Duration: 8 hours
• Time: 9 am 
• Highlights: Snorkeling in the Blue Lagoon, cruising around three different islands, visiting the Maslinica village on Solta Island, tasty lunch with wine on board the boat, paddleboarding
• Inclusions: Boat cruise, use of snorkeling equipment, lunch, wine, English-speaking captain and crew, use of snorkeling equipment, SUP boards and inflatables
• Rating: 4.7 stars (check 4,600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

We loved this Blue Lagoon snorkeling tour because it ended up being one of those days where time flies because you’re having so much fun. And we’re clearly not the only ones who had a blast – check out all of the 5-star reviews here!

We set sail in the morning, gliding across the sparkling Adriatic waters as we cruised towards our first stop of the day, Nečujam. Here, we got to snorkel above a shipwreck. Not only was this an incredibly cool experience, but the wreck acts as an artificial reef and attracts tons of interesting fish.

Next, we went to Maslinica, a picture-perfect Dalmatian village on Šolta Island. We grabbed a quick coffee at a seaside café, soaking in the slow-paced island life before going for a swim in the gorgeous blue water. We loved this place so much that we didn’t want to leave!

The final stop of the day was the famous Blue Lagoon and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The water was every bit as beautiful as in pictures, and we had a blast marveling at the underwater life here. Between snorkeling stops, the crew served a delicious lunch of grilled fish and fresh salad on board, which was accompanied by unlimited wine.

By the time we returned to Split, we felt sun-kissed, happy, and definitely keen to do this tour again. Honestly, this tour is a must!

Book your spot on this top-rated tour here, with FREE cancellation!

8. Spend a day in Herzegovina – visit Mostar, Kravica Waterfall, and Počitelj 

• Duration: 12 hours
• Time: 7 am 
• Highlights: Visiting the medieval town of Počitelj, exploring Mostar and its UNESCO-listed Old Bridge, admiring the Kravica Waterfall 
• Inclusions: Air-conditioned transport, WiFi on board, local driver and guide
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 880+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Herzegovina is one of the most beautiful Balkan regions, so if you don’t have time for an overnight stay in the area, booking this full-day tour from Split is the perfect way to explore!

We set off from Split around 7 am, but the early start was worth it because by 9 am, we were in Počitelj. It’s a charming medieval village and we loved admiring the Ottoman-style architecture as we strolled through its stone alleyways. 

Next up, we went to Mostar, which completely stole our hearts with its cobbled streets and diverse history. Of course, the highlight was visiting the iconic Old Bridge, which stands proudly over the Neretva River. We were so excited to see local divers leaping off of it! It was also incredibly interesting to learn about the divide between the city’s Christian and Muslim communities.

Our final stop was Kravica Waterfall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Europe. The cascading falls were absolutely breathtaking and we couldn’t resist taking a dip in the emerald-green pools.

This tour was a fantastic day out, and we managed to fit a lot in. It was super well-paced and every stop was memorable. And you don’t have to take our word for it, because you can read hundreds of 5-star reviews here!

Check availability and book this tour here!

Where to Stay in Split, Croatia

Finding the right place to stay in Split can make all the difference in your trip. But with so many options, choosing the perfect spot can be difficult. So to help you out, I’ve rounded up the best places to stay for every budget, so you can just focus on enjoying this stunning Croatian city!

Luxury – $$$

For a luxurious stay in Split, the Cornaro Hotel is a great choice! This elegant 5-star hotel sits right on the edge of the Old Town, just steps from Diocletian’s Palace. The modern rooms are stylish and well-equipped, and the hotel offers a rooftop splash pool and bar, a full-service spa, a fitness center, and two on-site restaurants. With top-tier amenities, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and a prime location, this hotel is perfect for a high-end stay in the heart of the city!

Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around €150 per night in the low season, and €400 per night during the busy summer season. Check prices and book this stay on Booking.com. 

Mid-range – $$

For a stylish and comfortable stay in the heart of Split, Riva Luxury Rooms is a great mid-range choice. Set in a traditional stone building (that is actually protected as a cultural monument!), this boutique hotel is just steps from the Riva Promenade and Diocletian’s Palace. The rooms are modern yet full of character, and free Wi-Fi is available throughout, making it a perfect base for exploring Split!

Rooms usually range between €130 – €260 per night and you can book this stay on Booking.com.

Budget – $

For an affordable yet stylish stay in Split, Villa Scalaria is a fantastic choice. Located in the city center, it’s within walking distance of the Riva Promenade and Diocletian’s Palace, putting you close to all the action. All rooms come with en-suite bathrooms, and some even offer beautiful city views. With modern amenities, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, this is a great budget-friendly option in Split!

Private rooms start as low as €80 per night. Check availability and reserve your room on Booking.com.

For more options, see all of the hotels in Split here!

Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels in Split, check out our in-depth guide to Where to Stay in Split!

Renting a Car in Europe

Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.

We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.

Tips for Renting a Car in Europe

• Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
• Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
• Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
• Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
• Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
• Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.

What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe

• A valid driver’s license from your home country.
• If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
• A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
• Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.

Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!

Thanks for reading!

I bet you’re ready to explore Split, Croatia now! I hope our list helped you pick out a few unforgettable activities to do while you’re here. We can’t wait for our next visit.

For more travel tips and inspiration, check out all our blogs here. We’ve been traveling for years and have so much to share to make your trip the best it can be!

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