How to Spend a Day in Split, Croatia

Split is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations, located on the beautiful Adriatic Sea. Its central location in Croatia makes it an ideal spot to fly into the country or include the city as a stop on your Croatia road trip. While many visitors come to Split for a relaxing beach holiday, Split offers so much more! From its beaches, to a vibrant city vibe and its rich history. Did you know there’s an ancient Roman palace right in the heart of the city? The city has enough to keep you entertained for a few days but it’s city center is compact enough to explore in one day.

Whether you’re staying for one day or a weekend, here’s the perfect way to how to spend a day Split!

Start Your Day with an Insta-Worthy Breakfast

Kick off your morning at Kat’s Kitchen Deli, a charming spot in the western part of Split. Known for its fresh, healthy, and Instagram-worthy dishes, this café offers plenty of options, including vegetarian and vegan meals. It’s the perfect place to fuel up for your day of exploration.

Explore Split’s Venetian Vibes and Bustling Boulevard

Once back in Split, start your city exploration at Trg Republike square. This picturesque square has a distinctly Venetian feel, with its colorful architecture that makes you feel like you are in Italy. From there, head toward the Riva Boulevard, the vibrant heart of Split. The Riva boulevard is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or lunch at one of its many cafes and restaurants. It’s the place to see and be seen!

Discover Diocletian’s Palace & old town split

A visit to Split wouldn’t be complete without exploring Diocletian’s Palace. Built in 293 AD by Roman Emperor Diocletian, this ancient palace has become an integral part of old town of the city. While much of it has blended into the surrounding neighborhood, remnants of the palace—like intricate mosaics and majestic arches—are still visible. Since the palace has become integrated into the city it’s free to visit. Take your time walking through the cobblestone streets that feel like a labyrinth and keep your eyes open to spot some hidden ruins of the palace.

End Your Day with a Delicious Dinner

Wrap up your day with a mouthwatering meal in Split. If you’re craving affordable yet flavorful Mexican food, head to Casa de Fuego. Their tacos, burritos, and margaritas are the perfect way to cap off an incredible day in this historic city. If you are more into grabbing a quick and filling bite, head to Good Food for some delicious burgers.

Optional: Visit Klis Fortress (a.k.a the Red Keep)

Fans of Game of Thrones won’t want to miss Klis Fortress, located just a 20-30 minute drive from Split. This iconic fortress served as the filming location for the Red Keep and appears in various scenes throughout the series. Even if you’re not a fan, the fortress is worth visiting for its panoramic views of Split and the surrounding area.

• Parking: Free
• Entry Fee: €10

Why Visit Split?

Split offers the perfect combination of relaxation and exploration. From its ancient Roman history and Venetian-inspired streets to its vibrant boulevards and stunning views, Split has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying longer, this article will help you plan the perfect itinerary on how to spend a day in Split!

Need more tips for places to visit in Croatia? Check out my Croatia page!