Ah, Split – a sun-kissed jewel on the Adriatic coast where time seems to have paused just for you. Imagine a place where ancient Roman walls whisper secrets of emperors and gladiators, while the sea dances in shades of turquoise and sapphire.
Now, envision yourself there, with seven glorious days to soak it all in. Welcome to your guide on how to spend a perfect week in Split, Croatia, a city that effortlessly marries the old with the new, the tranquil with the lively, and the exotic with the familiar.
Day 1: Arrival and exploring the old town
Start your Split sojourn with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Diocletian’s Palace. This sprawling Roman complex, built in the 4th century for Emperor Diocletian’s retirement, is not just a monument – it’s the pulsating heart of the city.
Post-palace, head to the Riva, Split’s iconic seafront promenade. Lined with palm trees and dotted with cafes, it’s the perfect place to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.
As evening approaches, meander through the narrow alleys of the old town. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, with its towering bell tower offering panoramic views of the city. And don’t forget the bustling Pazar Market, where locals sell everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts.
Day 2: Dive into Split’s rich history
As the sun casts its early rays over Split, the city awakens, revealing layers of history that stretch back thousands of years. Today, you’ll delve deeper into the stories that have shaped this Adriatic jewel.
Begin your exploration at the Mestrovic Gallery, dedicated to the works of Ivan Meštrović, Croatia’s most renowned sculptor. This elegant villa, surrounded by fragrant pine trees, houses a collection of his masterpieces, offering a unique blend of art and history.
From art, transition to the tangible remnants of history at the Archaeological Museum. As the oldest museum in Croatia, established in 1820, it boasts a vast collection that spans from prehistoric times to the early Middle Ages.
After a long day of exploring the Split’s rich history it’s time to know how to spend nights in Split. Split is a party city by night. Locals and tourists gather on Splits beaches which are full of bars and music, or they go to one of the clubs in Splits city center.
Day 3: Boat party tour to Blue Lagoon
By now, you’re probably asking yourself when is best to visit Split. The answer to this question is difficult since we don’t know what you want to experience. But do not worry, as if you’re a party animal, you will love Day 3. Today, you’re not just boarding any boat; you’re stepping onto a floating fiesta destined for the mesmerizing Blue Lagoon.
As your boat glides through the Adriatic, the rhythm of Croatian beats fills the air, setting the tone for a day of sun, sea, and unrestrained revelry. Fellow travelers, cocktails in hand, dance and mingle, forging bonds that often last long after the trip ends.
As the day winds down and the boat makes its journey back to Split, the setting sun casts a golden glow over the horizon, and the party continues. With the Dalmatian coast as your backdrop, dance, laugh, and celebrate a day that seamlessly combines the natural beauty of Croatia with the infectious energy of a boat party.
Day 4: Experience the local cuisine and chill on the beaches
Begin your day with a culinary journey through the heart of Split. The city’s gastronomic scene is a delightful blend of Dalmatian traditions and Mediterranean influences. For breakfast, indulge in a plate of soparnik – a savory pie filled with Swiss chard, onions, and parsley, a true local delicacy.
As the day progresses, find your way to the bustling fish market, or peškarija, where you can witness locals haggling over the freshest catch of the day. Opt for a seafood lunch at one of the nearby konoba’s (taverns), where dishes like grilled fish, black risotto with cuttlefish ink, and octopus salad reign supreme.
With your palate satiated, it’s time to surrender to the allure of Split’s pristine beaches. Head to Bačvice Beach, the city’s most famous sandy bay, known for its shallow waters and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you might even catch a game of picigin, a traditional ball game played in the shallows, which has its roots in this very beach.
Day 5: Day trip to Trogir
Split is perfect for day trips since its in the middle of Dalmatia. That’s why you should definitely visit Trogir, which is a short distance from Split. It’s an old town on an island, known for its beautiful old buildings. It’s even on a special list called UNESCO World Heritage because it’s so special. Start at Kamerlengo Castle. It’s an old castle with great views of the town and sea. It has thick walls from a long time ago when it was used to protect the town.
Next, walk around Trogir’s main area. It has small streets with lots of surprises like tiny gardens, coffee shops, and old churches. One important church to see is the St. Lawrence Cathedral. If you climb its tower, you can see the whole town and the sea.
For lunch, eat at a restaurant by the water. Try some dishes with fresh fish. You can watch boats while you eat. But before going back to Split, walk on the Riva. It’s a path by the sea with trees and places to buy ice cream.
Day 6: Tour of Marjan Park
On your sixth day in Split, head to Marjan Park. It’s a big green hill right next to the old part of the city. People call it the “lungs of the city” because it’s a fresh and peaceful spot away from the busy streets.
Start by putting on some comfortable shoes because there are many paths to walk on. As you go higher, you’ll see amazing views of the city, the bright blue sea, and even some far-off islands. Every spot you stop at will show you a different and beautiful scene.
While you walk, look around. The park is full of plants that grow near the sea, and sometimes you might see a squirrel running by. There are also old churches and caves in the park.
After all that walking, you might feel hot. The good news is there’s a beach called Bene Beach in the park, and there are also areas where people can sit and drink as well.
Day 7: Leisure and departure
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at one of the charming cafés lining the Riva promenade. With a few hours to spare before departure, consider revisiting a favorite spot or exploring a corner you might have missed. The Marjan Hill, with its panoramic views of the city and the sea, is a serene place to reflect on your week’s adventures. Alternatively, the bustling Green Market offers a last chance to pick up local delicacies or souvenirs for loved ones back home.
As the time for departure nears, make your way to the port or bus station, carrying with you a suitcase full of memories and a heart full of gratitude. The beauty of Split isn’t just in its historic walls or sun-kissed beaches, but in the moments of connection, discovery, and wonder you’ve experienced. As you leave, know that Split, with its timeless charm, will always be waiting to welcome you back.
FAQ
The best time to visit Split is in summer. During this time Split has a lovely atmosphere, during the day you can explore monuments and chill on the beach, while evenings come alive with festivities and parties.
Split is easily accessible by air, with its international airport catering to numerous European destinations. The city also has good ferry connections to various Adriatic ports and islands.
Yes! One week in Split is generally considered a good amount of time to explore the city and its nearby attractions.
