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Ready to plan an unforgettable 3 days in Split, Croatia? We’ve done the legwork, so you don’t have to!
Split is one of those cities that balances old-world charm with coastal energy—think ancient Roman ruins, island-hopping day trips, buzzing food markets, and sunsets along the Riva. With so much packed into one destination, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s where we come in!
After exploring Split multiple times, we’ve crafted the perfect 3-day itinerary to help you experience the best of the city without feeling rushed. From waterfalls and speedboat tours to beaches and scenic strolls, this guide will take you from espresso to evening views with zero stress and all the good stuff in between.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this full-day tour to Krka National Park! We saw gorgeous waterfalls, took a boat ride down the river, and then relaxed at a local winery with food pairings. Does it get any better?
Check out the 6,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Day 1
Breakfast – Oko Podne
With an 8:30 am start and a big day ahead, we wanted something quick but satisfying, and this cute little place delivered. Just a 7-minute walk from the meeting point for your first tour, it opens early enough to grab a bite without feeling rushed. The menu leans Mediterranean but adds a few fun twists: think flaky croissant sandwiches, colorful smoothie bowls, and egg dishes that actually taste seasoned.
We rolled in around 7:30 am, ordered strong, smooth espresso (seriously good coffee), and split a buttery croissant stuffed with prosciutto and cheese. Sitting outside in the quiet morning felt like a calm and tasty way to kick off the day before heading out to the waterfalls and wine.
Morning/Afternoon – Visit Krka National Park & enjoy a food and wine tour
Planning a day trip from Split that combines nature, wine, and culture without the stress of transit isn’t easy. That’s why this full-day tour to Krka National Park and a local winery is such a gem: it packs everything into one seamless, hassle-free experience.
Two morning start times are available, but we recommend going with the 8:30 am departure. It gives you a head start at the park before it gets too crowded and leaves time to enjoy dinner back in Split later.
The morning began with a scenic bus ride from Split to Krka National Park, where we followed our guide along shaded trails, stopped to admire the famous Skradinski Buk waterfall, and explored a restored ethno-village complete with traditional watermills and local crafts—peaceful, photogenic, and surprisingly informative.
Next was a boat ride down the Krka River to the riverside town of Skradin. We had free time here to explore, grab lunch, or, like us, take a refreshing swim where the river meets the sea.
To cap it all off, we visited a local winery, where we tasted several Dalmatian varieties paired with homemade cheese, bread, olive oil, and cured meats. The atmosphere was relaxed, the hosts were warm, and after a few glasses, everyone was fast friends!
It’s the perfect balance of nature, culture, and indulgence. We loved how it felt like multiple tours in one, with waterfalls, a boat ride, and a full tasting experience all packed into a single day. No wonder it has thousands of five-star reviews!
Book this full-day tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
Dinner – Chops Grill
After a day of waterfalls and exploring the countryside, dinner at Chops Grill was the perfect way to wrap things up.
One of the most popular restaurants in Split, it lives up to the hype. The menu covers everything from expertly grilled steaks and fresh seafood to pasta and vegetarian dishes. Everything we ordered was spot on!
The tour wraps up around 6:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to head back to your hotel, freshen up, and ease into the evening. Chops is open late, but we definitely recommend booking ahead—tables fill quickly, especially during dinner hours.
Evening – Walk the Riva
After a busy day of island hopping and a hearty dinner, this is the perfect way to wind down. The Riva is lined with palm trees, benches, and breezy sea views, and there’s always a gentle buzz of people—locals catching up, street performers, and fellow travelers taking it all in.
We grabbed a gelato and found a spot to sit for a while, just watching the boats and the lights reflecting off the water. No plans, no rush, just a quiet moment to end the day!
Related Read: If you’re continuing your Croatia travels, check out our 3-day Dubrovnik itinerary for a jam-packed visit!
Day 2
Breakfast – Grab a light breakfast at Caffe Bar Koko
Start day two with a light bite and a great coffee at Caffe Bar Koko. This cozy little café is tucked just far enough from the main streets to feel peaceful, but still super convenient. It opens at 7 am, so there’s plenty of time to ease into your morning before the 10:30 am food tour. We grabbed a table outside, sipped our coffees, and watched the city slowly come to life.
Since you’ll be tasting your way through Split later, keep it light—a pastry or toast is perfect here. It’s a no-frills spot that nails the basics, and the coffee definitely hit the spot.
Morning/Lunch – Taste your way through Split
With a day of eating ahead, we took a leisurely 11-minute stroll from breakfast to the meeting point for this 10:30 am food tour, and this one turned out to be a real highlight of the trip.
It’s a well-loved tour for good reason—five food stops, local drinks, and a walk through 1,700 years of Split’s history, all wrapped into one delicious experience. Come hungry, because it absolutely replaces lunch!
Over three hours, we tasted our way through some of Split’s most authentic spots, many of which we never would’ve found on our own. Our guide, Vicky, made us feel like old friends from the start, weaving in fun stories about local culture and history as we walked.
We kicked things off at the bustling Green Market with samples of Dalmatian prosciutto, aged cheese, and fresh peka bread, then wandered through the Old Town and People’s Square. Along the way, we stopped at a handful of family-run restaurants to try dishes like tuna pâté, pasta with mussels and shrimp, and even a traditional drink.
The tour wrapped up along the Riva with a stop at the city’s oldest pastry shop. I meant to skip dessert… but then gelato happened!
This tour gave us a real sense of how locals eat, live, and celebrate. It wasn’t just about the food—it was the stories, hidden spots, and feeling like we were exploring the city with a friend.
Check hundreds of 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
Afternoon – Marjan Hill and beach time
After all that good food, it’s the perfect time to get moving, and Marjan Forest Park offers the ideal post-lunch combo of fresh air, light exercise, and some of the best views in Split. Whether you’re in the mood for a short scenic walk or a longer coastal wander, this green escape is the place to be. Bonus: it’s also home to a couple of beautiful beaches, so don’t forget to pack a towel!
Marjan Forest Park
Marjan Forest Park is Split’s green escape, and a post-lunch walk here is the perfect way to recharge. You’ve got a few options depending on your energy level. The easiest route starts just west of the Riva, where you’ll climb the steps from St. Francis Church to Prva Vidilica (the First Lookout). It’s a short 15–20 minute walk uphill, and the panoramic views over the Old Town, harbor, and islands are absolutely worth the effort.
If you’re feeling more active, you can begin further out at the Vila Dalmatia viewpoint or even the Telegrin Lookout for a longer route with more elevation. Or, continue west from Prva Vidilica into the heart of Marjan Forest Park. The trail winds past shaded benches, pine-covered paths, and tiny chapels and leads to quiet beaches like Bene Beach, where you can dip your feet in the sea.
It’s peaceful, scenic, and offers a nice break from the city center buzz. Plan to spend around 1.5 to 2 hours here, depending on your pace and how far you feel like going. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure kind of place!
Relax at the beach
After your Marjan walk, it’s time to kick back by the sea. Both Kasjuni Beach and Bene Beach sit at the base of Marjan Hill and are easy to reach either on foot or with a quick Uber if your legs need a break.
Kasjuni has a more polished feel, with sunbeds, a stylish beach bar, and cocktails or fresh juice on offer. It’s lively without being too crowded, and a great spot to unwind with a view.
Bene, on the other hand, is quieter and more local—tucked under the pines, with shallow water and a more relaxed vibe. You really can’t go wrong with either one, so just pick based on your mood and settle in for a well-earned afternoon of sun and sea.
Dinner – Corto Maltese Freestyle Food
After a laid-back afternoon by the sea, head back into town for dinner at Corto Maltese Freestyle Food, a spot that’s just as creative as its name suggests.
This funky little place blends Croatian and Italian influences in unexpected (but delicious) ways. The menu changes with the seasons, so don’t be surprised to find dishes like tuna tataki with citrus ponzu or pork belly with plum glaze next to local classics with a twist. Everything we tried was packed with flavor and plated with style.
The vibe is just as fun as the food—eclectic decor, laid-back energy, and a staff that clearly loves what they do. It’s casual, inventive, and a great way to wrap up day two with something a little different.
Evening – Wander through the Diocletian’s Palace at night
There’s something magical about Diocletian’s Palace after dark. The crowds thin out, the stone walls glow under soft lighting, and the whole place takes on a quieter, almost dreamlike atmosphere.
We wandered through the same alleys we’d explored earlier, but it felt completely different — like stepping into another time. You can retrace your steps, take a new turn just for the fun of it, or simply find a quiet corner to sit and take it all in!
Day 3
Breakfast – On the go!
Today’s all about early starts, so keep breakfast simple and grab something on the go. Whether it’s a quick bite from your hotel or a nearby café, you’ll want to fuel up before heading out to your tour meeting point. Nothing fancy, just something to hold you over until your next proper meal. A strong coffee and a pastry will do the trick, and you’ll find plenty of cafés open early in the city center.
Morning/Afternoon – Visit the Blue Cave and five unique islands
Planning an island day from Split can feel overwhelming with so many places, not enough time, and zero desire to sort out ferries. That’s why we booked this full-day speedboat tour, and it packs some of the Adriatic’s most stunning spots into one stress-free, unforgettable day!
The boat leaves bright and early at 7:00 am, so give yourself time to check in, at least 15 minutes ahead, to get settled. After zipping out of Split, our first real stop was the tiny island of Biševo, home to the famous Blue Cave.
Thanks to skip-the-line access, we didn’t waste time waiting for Blue Cave tickets and got in before the crowds. Inside, the electric-blue water looked totally unreal, like something out of a movie!
From there, we cruised to Komiža, a sleepy fishing village perfect for a quick coffee and wander, then continued to Stiniva Cove, a hidden beach surrounded by cliffs where we jumped straight into the crystal-clear water.
Next, we passed Srebrena (Mamma Mia Beach) for photos, then snorkeled with colorful fish at the Blue Lagoon. Our final stop was Hvar, where we had time to explore, shop, and enjoy a laid-back seaside lunch before heading back to Split. It was the perfect mix of adventure and downtime, all in one day.
A day of surreal caves, secret coves, snorkeling, and seaside towns—this tour somehow packs in adventure and chill vibes all at once. It’s no wonder it has thousands of five-star reviews!
Book the best speedboat tour in Split here!
Dinner – Fig Split
Whether you head there straight from the dock or swing by your hotel to freshen up, Fig Split is just a 5–7-minute walk from where the speedboat tour ends, making it a super convenient (and very popular) dinner spot.
Tucked into a colorful corner of the Old Town, Fig dishes out a playful, globally inspired menu with a Mediterranean twist. Think pulled pork burritos, goat cheese-stuffed dates, and shakshuka that seriously hits after a full day on the water. The space is bright and relaxed, the staff are always friendly, and the whole vibe is exactly what you want after an adventure-packed day.
Evening – Toast to your trip!
What better way to wrap up your time in Split than with a great drink in hand? The city has no shortage of bars, but we’ve narrowed it down to two of our favorites, both stylish, welcoming, and within easy walking distance from the Old Town. Whether you’re in the mood for something crafty and creative or a casual spot with local flavor, these are solid final stops to end your trip on a high note.
Bar Sistema
Tucked near the edge of the Old Town, Bar Sistema is a sleek little hideaway known for its expert-level drinks and moody, minimalist vibe. It’s the kind of place where the bartenders actually enjoy what they do, and it shows in every pour.
This is your spot if you’re into drinks with precision and flair. It stays open until 1 or 2 am, so there’s no need to rush. Settle in, order something adventurous, and enjoy one last stylish evening in Split.
The Daltonist Craft Bar
Equal parts cool and cozy, The Daltonist Craft Bar blends a modern bar with the easygoing feel of a gastropub. It’s got the vibe of somewhere you could dress up or show up sandy from the beach, either way, you’ll fit right in.
Their signature drinks are clever without being fussy, and they also serve local crafts and surprisingly good small plates if you get snacky late at night. Friendly staff, great tunes, and just the right amount of buzz. It’s the kind of place you’ll wish you had back home!
Related Read: Need a few more activities to fill your itinerary? Check out our 8 best things to do in Split 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!
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 European countries drive on the right-hand side, except for the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta, where you’ll drive on the left. Some countries also have unique road signs or rules, so it’s worth doing 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. Also, a compact car is great for narrow village roads or tight city parking. With Discover Cars, it’s super easy to filter for exactly what you need, whether that’s an automatic, a diesel engine, or extra luggage space.
- 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!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Split was easily one of our favorite stops in Croatia! It has some incredible outdoor adventures at its fingertips, and the city itself is seriously charming. Three days is just enough time to get a taste of Split – we are already planning our next trip back!
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out our other Europe blogs! We love sharing our travel experiences, favorite places, and can’t miss activities with fellow adventurers. Here are a few more blogs that will be helpful as you plan:
7 Best Things to do in Hvar, Croatia