Split in One Day: Things to Do & See

Split, perched quietly on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, might’ve not been built in a day but as it turns out, it can be pretty much seen in a day. While you won’t be able to experience everything the city has to offer in just a day, luckily Split is small enough to let you explore its most charming sites without feeling rushed.

I visited Split two days ago en route to Bosnia, and I was surprised how much I got to see in just under 7 hours. I’m not one to rush through, hectically ticking things off my list, so all these sites can be seen at a perfectly slow pace, an hour long lunch, dinner and a coffee stop included. Let’s jump straight into it!

THE OLD TOWN

Don’t let the tacky tourist shops, travel agencies and fast food stands cramped together by the ferry docks and the bus station bring your spirits down – once you flee the madness (and the smell of burnt pizza), you’ll find yourself  at the pretty marina lined up with palm trees and flowers. From there, it’s just a quick walk to the old town which, architecture-wise, has got to be the most charming part of the city. It’s most unique part is the Diocletian’s Palace. Dating back to 300AD and built in white stone from the nearby island of Brač, it’s actually less of a palace and more of a walled village, filled with narrow, stone-built streets and yes, you guessed it, souvenir shops selling everything from lavender and jewellery to fridge magnets. If you’re in search for a more “authentic” experience, take a stroll down the smaller backstreets where you will find cafes, bars and  galleries filled with a  local crowd. Ulica Majstora Jurja is a great start. If you’re into arts or in need of some colour therapy,  then be sure to stop by at Kruziceva 10 where you will find Atelier Zitnik (pictured below).

MARJAN HILL

My favourite part of the city wasn’t the Old Town but Marjan Hill, overlooking Split from the west. It’s a quiet oasis with a stunning panorama of the city which, although towering over the Old Town, has still managed to remain hidden from the crowds. To get there, follow the marina all the way to its west end (in the opposite direction to the ferry docks) until you reach restaurant Fife. If you’re feeling peckish,  stop by  – the place was recommended to me by a local and turned out to be a perfect spot for a traditional Croatian lunch! From there, follow the road up until you see a staircase on your right-hand side – that’s the way to Marjan. Climbing all the way to the top should take you about an hour but be sure to take your time to enjoy the views which are the best part of the walk.

 

CITY BEACHES

Beaches in Split may not be the most charming, but they are just what the doctor ordered if you want to cool down from the heat. The water there is clear and perfect for a quick dip.  Bačvice and the smaller Ovčice beach are just a short walk east from the ferry terminal, about 10-15 min away from the marina.

Over to you! Have you been to Split? What was your favourite part of the trip? Sharing is caring, so let us know in the comments below!