10 things to do in Split, Croatia – From Split boat parties to culture

Split is a city which is rich in history and culture. Although it has become a popular destination with holidaymakers, it still retains its laid-back charm and stunning architectural sights. Split is located in the Croatian region of Dalmatia on the Eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea.

Here’s a selection of top 10 things to do in Split, Croatia.

10 things to do in Split, Croatia – From Split boat parties to culture

1. Wander through Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace is one of the main attractions of Split and, in fact, the whole city centers around it. This sprawling network of cobbled streets and beautiful buildings is contained within the high palace walls. The palace was originally built by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4^th century AD.

If you’re a history buff, taking a guided tour of the palace is a great way to learn more about its history.

The palace is also packed with boutique shops, restaurants and bars and really is the hub of the city. You could spend all day just getting lost in the narrow streets and taking in the bustling atmosphere. Don’t forget to check out Gregory of Nin, an enormous statue (which looks very much like a wizard!). Rub the statue’s giant toe and it will bring you good luck!

2. Visit Krka National Park

You can book an excursion to Krka National Park from any of the main booking offices in the city or in advance online. Here’s a list with popular Krka National Park day trip options.

It’s definitely worth booking your trip as an excursion to save you the hassle of getting there by yourself.

Make sure you take some sturdy shoes and your swimming costume!

Krka National Park is a stunning area of natural beauty. Following the trail around the park takes about 45 minutes and allows you to take in the wonderful views and crystal blue waterfalls. The most striking waterfalls come at the end, as they cascade into a bright blue pool which is perfect for swimming.

3. Experience a Split party boat

Boat parties in Split, Croatia are a big deal. There are several ways to go on a Split Boat Party, but the best-known ones are the trips organized by The Boat Party Split (yes, the company is actually called that way). They go out several times a week, boat for day trips and for sunset trips.

Read reviews for The Boat Party Split here.

How much you’ll love the Split party boat depends on how much of a party-goer you are. Again, this experience can be booked through the excursion office and the ticket includes a 4-hour boat trip and all-inclusive drinks on board the catamaran.

In reality, if you take the daytime boat, it really isn’t as wild as you might expect and it’s quite relaxing to just chill out with a drink or two as you take in the views.

Another options is this catamaran cruise to Brac Island. It includes unlimited drinks as well as a lunch, snacks, swimming breaks, and musical entertainment.
 

4. Go on the famous pub crawl in Split

One of the things to do in Split, Croatia at night, is to join the nightly pub crawl in Split. If you’re staying in a hostel then it’s likely they will recommend it to you.

The Split bar crawl leaves from the main courtyard of Diocletian’s Palace and sees a massive turnout, especially on a Friday and Saturday night. It can be a great way to meet new people and truly experience the nightlife which Split has to offer.

The Tower Pub Crawl Split and the Ziggy Star Pub Crawl Split both get great reviews on TripAdvisor. Read about them here and here.

5. Head to the beach

Bačvice is Split’s most popular beach. Although the sand is slightly more pebbly than the typical beach there are lots of sun loungers for you to relax on. The water is very shallow on this beach so occasionally you might see people playing a game called “pincigin” which involves a few people in a circle trying to keep a small ball in the air for as long as possible!

6. Visit the market

Source: Flickr – TeppoTK

If you love fresh produce the head to Split’s market where you’ll be spoiled for choice with all the colorful fruit and vegetables. There are also a few souvenir stalls and some great food stands.

If you want to know more about Croatian cuisine, check out this a food tour which includes market visits and lunch.

7. Meštrović Art Gallery

Source: Flickr – Monika Kostera (urbanlegend)

Ivan Meštrović is Croatia’s most famous modern sculptor who built the gallery as his private home from 1931 to 1939. Nowadays the gallery is home to his creations and the permanent collection displays everything from sculpture and drawings to furniture and architecture. Check out the latest reviews here.
 

8. Try the ice cream

Source: Flickr – illustir

Split is renowned for its delicious ice cream and you’ll find plenty of places to buy it – give it a try!

9. Take a boat trip to Hvar

There is a regular ferry boat which will take you across to nearby Hvar (which is generally considered to be a bit of a party island). The ferry takes about 90 minutes and from Hvar, you can take boats out to various other islands, many of which hold beach parties.

Even if you are just into history and culture, Hvar is worth a visit, but if you enjoy good food, drink, nightlife and sunbathing then this is really one of the things to do in Split.

Check out this list of excursions on and from Hvar.

10. Sample Split’s seafood

Being right on the coast means that Split’s fresh seafood is definitely worth a try. For authentic seafood meals head to Noštromo restaurant which is located right by the fish market.
 

And that’s it! I hope this helped answer the question of what to do in Split, Croatia and made you excited about your trip there.
 

Travel guides for Split, Croatia

Looking for more information on Split? Check out these handy guides:

Or check out these 5 books about Croatia to learn more about the history and culture of the country.
 

Hotels in Split, Croatia

Accommodation in Split is relatively cheap, especially in comparison to Western European prices. You can get quite the luxury hotel room or a beautiful apartment for less than €100/night.

To get a range of options based on your preferences, Search Booking.com

And for more specific Split accommodation options, check out this post by Chasing the Donkey.
 

Getting to Split, Croatia

Split has its own international airport, making it very easy to get there.
Check Skyscanner for the best flight options.
 

Stay connected while visiting Split

Traveling to Split from outside the EU and want to stay connected so you can share photos, call loved ones over WiFi and easily use apps like Google Maps? Then check out Skyroam mobile WiFi.

They offer both day passes and monthly subscriptions providing you with 4G throughout your trips. I’ve been using their daily passes not just when I travel outside the EU (no roaming charges for me in the EU) but also as a backup for when I think I’ll go over my phone’s data plan.
 

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Emma is a 22 year old travel blogger at Inspiring Travel where she shares her travel tips and experiences. She hopes to inspire people to get out there and see the world and show that anyone can travel no matter what their budget, age or work commitments! You can also follow her on Twitter.
 

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