Croatia is quickly becoming one of the top and most affordable travel destinations in Europe. Split, in particular, is an excellent home base for exploring the country. It’s also a fantastic destination by itself with plenty of activities to offer, making it one of Croatia’s best cities for digital nomads thanks to its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and scenic spots.
There’s something in Split for everyone, whether you’re a traveler, beach-lover, or culture-seeker. The top things to do here range from exploring ancient palaces and fortresses to enjoying the Croatian sun with a glass of wine. If you love seafood, Split’s fresh catch will surely delight you.
Split has gained even more popularity as it served as a filming location for the TV series Game of Thrones. This has drawn a lot of fans to the city.
One major highlight in Split is Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient palace-turned-fortress at the heart of Split’s old town. Built in the 4th century by Roman Emperor Diocletian, the palace features stunning architecture with marble from Italy and sphinxes from Egypt. It’s a wonderful place to wander around, grab a coffee or gelato, and soak up the history.
Gregory of Nin, a medieval Croatian bishop celebrated for advocating for the use of the Croatian language during mass, has a massive statue outside the palace walls. Rubbing the statue’s toe and making a wish is one of the quirky things you can do in Split.
For a local experience, visit the morning fish market. It’s vibrant and bustling, and a great spot to find fresh seafood. If you have a kitchen where you’re staying, buying and cooking the seafood from the market can be a fun and cost-effective meal. Otherwise, many restaurants along the Split promenade serve delicious fresh fish dishes.
Split’s promenade, known as The Riva, is a beautiful walkway by the sea lined with cafes, restaurants, and bakeries—ideal for people-watching and relaxing. It’s also a venue for cultural events and entertainment.
Krka National Park, accessible by bus, car, or tours, is a must-visit for its waterfalls and diverse ecosystems. Unlike Plitvice Lakes National Park, you can swim by the waterfalls at Krka. The park is especially popular during summer, so expect crowds.
Just a few kilometers from Split, the fortress near Klis village offers panoramic views and is famous among Game of Thrones fans as the City of Meereen. It’s less crowded and can be a peaceful visit, especially off-season.
Split is also a gateway for boat trips along the Dalmatian coast, offering anything from sunset sails to multi-day excursions. It’s ideally located for visiting islands like Brac, Solta, Hvar, Korcula, and Vis using public ferries. Renting a car and using it to explore the islands can be convenient and enjoyable.
Staying in Split can also be a budget-friendly way to visit Dubrovnik, another popular Croatian destination. You can take a day trip there, but remember to carry your passport as the route goes through Bosnia.
Split is an excellent base for experiencing the best of Croatia—from its cultural activities and beach opportunities to its gastronomic delights and nightlife. There’s truly something for everyone in Split.