3-Day Family Adventure and Shopping Itinerary in Split, Croatia
Split, Croatia
3 days
About Split, Croatia
Split, Croatia, is a captivating blend of ancient history and modern charm. As the second-largest city in Croatia, Split offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, Diocletian's Palace, a Roman emperor's retirement home that now forms the city's vibrant heart. Wander through the bustling Riva promenade, lined with cafes and shops, or relax on the pristine beaches of the Adriatic Sea. Experience the local cuisine, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes. Take a day trip to the nearby islands of Hvar and Brac or explore the stunning Krka National Park. Split is not just a city, it's a feeling - come and experience it for yourself.
3-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Visiting the Split City Museum and the Marjan Forest Park
Morning
Start your second day with a visit to the Split City Museum, where you can learn about the city's rich history. The museum is housed in a Gothic-Renaissance palace.
Lunch
Have lunch in a local restaurant. Try 'pasticada', a slow-cooked beef dish, or 'brudet', a fish stew. Don't forget to taste some of the local wines.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon exploring the Marjan Forest Park, a green oasis perfect for hiking, biking, or just relaxing. There are several playgrounds for children and a small zoo.
Dinner
Dine in a restaurant offering a variety of seafood dishes. Try 'grilled fish', 'octopus salad', or 'scampi na buzara', shrimps in a sauce of white wine, garlic, and parsley.
Evening
End your day with a visit to the Split Summer Theatre. Enjoy a play, a concert, or a ballet performance in this open-air theatre located in the heart of the city.
Day 3
Visiting the Split Archaeological Museum and the Bacvice Beach
Morning
On your last day, visit the Split Archaeological Museum, the oldest museum in Croatia. It houses a vast collection of artifacts from prehistoric times, ancient Rome, and the Middle Ages.
Lunch
Have lunch in a restaurant offering a variety of pizza and pasta dishes. Try 'pizza with prosciutto and rocket', or 'pasta with truffles'.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at the Bacvice Beach, the most popular city beach. Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, or playing 'picigin', a traditional local game.
Dinner
Have your last dinner in Split in a restaurant offering traditional Dalmatian dishes. Try 'lamb under the bell', a traditional dish where the meat is slow-cooked under a metal bell.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing walk along the Split's old town, enjoying the beautiful architecture and the vibrant nightlife.
Attractions in Itinerary (8)
1Diocletian's Palace
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Diocletian's Palace is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world. It was built by the Roman emperor Diocletian at the turn of the fourth century AD.
2Riva Promenade
Riva is the main city promenade. Since 2007, Riva has a new, modern appearance, which isn't accepted by some who are used to its authentic look.
3Marjan Hill
Marjan Hill is a lush, hilly nature reserve with hiking trails, panoramic views, and ancient chapels.
4Split City Museum
Located within the Gothic palace of the Papalic family, the Split City Museum houses a valuable collection of medieval artifacts.
5Marjan Forest Park
Marjan Forest Park is a hill on the peninsula of the city of Split. It is covered in a dense Mediterranean pine forest and completely surrounded by the city and the sea.
6Split Summer Theatre
A popular summer event that showcases a variety of performances including plays, ballets, operas, and concerts. The theatre is located within the walls of the Diocletian's Palace, providing a unique and historic setting for the performances.
7Split Archaeological Museum
Founded in 1820, it is the oldest museum in Croatia. It has an extensive collection of various archaeological artifacts from the prehistoric, Greek, Roman and early Christian period.
8Bacvice Beach
Bacvice Beach is the most famous beach in Split, located in the city center. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and a game played by locals called 'picigin'.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Peka
A traditional Croatian dish, Peka is a blend of vegetables and meat drizzled with olive oil, sprinkled with herbs, and then baked to perfection under a bell-like dome, or ispod čripnje. It's a must-try for anyone visiting Split.
Crni Rižot
Crni Rižot, or black risotto, is a popular Croatian seafood dish. It's made from squid or cuttlefish, with their ink used to give the risotto its distinctive black color. It's a common dish in Split and a must-try for seafood lovers.
Pašticada
Pašticada is a traditional Dalmatian dish. It's a stewed beef dish cooked in a special sauce, usually served with gnocchi. It's a popular dish in Split and a must-try for meat lovers.
Soparnik
Soparnik is a traditional Dalmatian dish, often considered the precursor to the Italian pizza. It's a thin, flat pie filled with Swiss chard, onions, and parsley, and is a popular vegetarian option in Split.
Gregada
Gregada is a traditional Croatian fish stew made with several types of fish, potatoes, onions, garlic, parsley, and olive oil. It's a popular dish in Split, especially among seafood lovers.
Rakija
Rakija is a popular Croatian brandy that comes in many flavors, including plum (šljivovica), grape (loza), honey (medica), and walnut (orahovica). It's a must-try for anyone visiting Split.
Pršut
Pršut is a dry-cured ham similar to Italian prosciutto. It's a common appetizer in Split and is often served with cheese and olives.
Rožata
Rožata is a traditional Croatian custard pudding similar to flan. It's a popular dessert in Split and is often served with a sweet caramel sauce.
Maraschino
Maraschino is a liqueur made from the distillation of Marasca cherries. It's a traditional drink in Split and a must-try for anyone visiting the city.
Kroštule
Kroštule is a traditional Croatian dessert. These deep-fried dough ribbons dusted with powdered sugar are a popular sweet treat in Split.
Bobići
Bobići is a traditional Croatian corn soup. It's a popular dish in Split, especially during the summer months.
Prošek
Prošek is a traditional Dalmatian dessert wine. It's sweet and strong, often served at the end of a meal. It's a must-try for wine lovers visiting Split.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Split, Croatia is typically between April and June, or September and October. During these months, the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for exploring the city's historical sites and enjoying the beautiful beaches. The city is less crowded compared to the peak summer months of July and August, allowing you to experience the local culture more intimately. Additionally, accommodation and flight prices tend to be more affordable during these shoulder seasons.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
January 6 | Sat | Epiphany |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day / May Day |
May 30 | Thu | Statehood Day |
May 30 | Thu | Corpus Christi |
June 22 | Sat | Day of Antifascist Struggle |
August 5 | Mon | Victory Day |
August 15 | Thu | Assumption of Mary |
November 1 | Fri | All Saints' Day |
November 18 | Mon | Remembrance Day |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | St Stephen's Day |
How to get around
City Bus
Split has a comprehensive city bus network that covers the entire city and its suburbs. It's a convenient way to get around, especially if you're staying outside the city center.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Split. They can be hailed on the street, booked in advance, or picked up from designated taxi ranks. It's a quick but more expensive way to get around.
Ridesharing
Split has ridesharing services like Uber available. It's a convenient way to get around, especially if you're familiar with the app. You can book a ride directly from your smartphone and the price is usually cheaper than a taxi.
Bicycle
Split is a bike-friendly city with numerous bike rental shops and dedicated bike lanes. It's a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city, especially the scenic coastline.
Car Rental
Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore beyond Split. Keep in mind that parking can be challenging in the city center and the old town is pedestrian-only.
Ferry
Split's port offers numerous ferry connections to the surrounding islands. It's a great way to explore the beautiful Croatian coastline and islands.
Walk
Split's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making walking an excellent way to explore. The old town, Diocletian's Palace, and the Riva promenade are all easily accessible on foot.
Train
While not as commonly used for local travel, Split's train station offers connections to other Croatian cities and destinations. It's a good option if you're planning to travel further afield.
Scooter
Renting a scooter can be a fun and efficient way to get around Split, especially during the busy summer months. However, be aware of the local traffic rules and ensure you have the appropriate license.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Split, Croatia as a first time visitor
1
Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, so it's quite busy and bustling.
2
The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.
3
The local currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
4
Split has a Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry with temperatures ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 90°F (32°C), while winters are mild and wet with temperatures ranging from 40°F (4°C) to 60°F (15°C).
5
Tipping is customary in Croatia. It's typical to leave a 10-15% tip in restaurants and cafes.
6
Public transportation is reliable and affordable. The city has a good network of buses, and ferries are available for island hopping.
7
Split is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
8
Croatia is part of the European Union, but it's not part of the Schengen Area. This means you may need a visa to visit, depending on your nationality.
9
The tap water in Split is safe to drink.
10
Split is a pedestrian-friendly city with many of its attractions located within walking distance of each other.
11
Croatia uses the Type C and Type F plug. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
12
Split has a vibrant nightlife with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants open late.
13
Croatian cuisine is diverse and delicious. Be sure to try local dishes like peka, pasticada, and Dalmatian prosciutto.
14
Split has a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets, from luxury hotels to budget hostels and vacation rentals.
15
Croatians are generally friendly and hospitable. Don't hesitate to ask for help or directions.
16
Split has several markets where you can buy fresh produce, local products, and souvenirs.
17
The city is known for its festivals and events, so check the local calendar to see what's happening during your visit.
18
Split has a rich history and culture. Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the city's past.
19
Croatia has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for unforeseen circumstances.
20
Respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to greet people with a handshake and to say 'Dobar dan' (Good day).
Basic Croatian to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Bok | bohk | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Doviđenja | doh-vee-jen-ya | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Molim | moh-leem | Making a request |
Thank you | Hvala | hva-la | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Da | dah | Answering affirmatively |
No | Ne | neh | Answering negatively |
Excuse me | Oprostite | oh-proh-stee-teh | Getting attention or apologizing |
I don't understand | Ne razumijem | neh rah-zoo-me-yem | When you don't understand something |
Do you speak English? | Govorite li engleski? | goh-voh-ree-teh lee eng-les-kee | Asking if someone speaks English |
I'm sorry | Žao mi je | zhao mee yeh | Apologizing |
Where is...? | Gdje je...? | gdye yeh | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Kupaonica | koo-pah-oh-neet-sah | Asking for the bathroom |
Help | Pomoć | poh-mohch | In case of emergency |
Food | Hrana | hra-na | When looking for food |
Water | Voda | vo-da | When asking for water |
Beer | Pivo | pee-vo | When ordering a beer |
Wine | Vino | vee-no | When ordering wine |
Check, please | Račun, molim | rah-choon, moh-leem | Asking for the bill |
How much does it cost? | Koliko to košta? | ko-lee-ko toh kosh-ta | Asking for the price |
Good night | Laku noć | lah-koo notch | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Underwear
Socks
Sleepwear
Swimwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Sandals
Sunglasses
Hat or cap
Light jacket or sweater
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport or ID
Airline tickets
Hotel reservation confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Guidebook or map
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger and adapter
Headphones
Camera
Memory card
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Reusable water bottle
Travel-size laundry detergent
Plastic bags for dirty clothes
Notebook and pen
Weather Conditions
Split, Croatia, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. If you're planning a trip, here's some weather-related guidance to help you prepare. If you're visiting in the summer, from June to August, expect temperatures to range from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It's the perfect time for beach activities, so don't forget your sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect crowded beaches and tourist spots. The shoulder seasons, spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), offer more comfortable temperatures, ranging from 50°F to 70°F (10°C to 21°C). These periods are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing, as the weather is pleasant and the tourist crowds are smaller. Winter, from December to February, sees temperatures from 40°F to 55°F (4°C to 13°C). While it's the wettest season, it's also the least crowded time to visit. Pack a waterproof jacket and warm clothing if you're planning to visit during this time. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip. This will help you pack appropriately and plan your activities. Remember, the weather can sometimes be unpredictable, so it's always best to be prepared for a variety of conditions. Enjoy your trip to Split!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 14° / 6° | January is the coldest month in Split, Croatia, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 14°C. It's a quiet time for tourism, so you can enjoy the city without the crowds. |
February | 15° / 6° | February is still chilly, with temperatures between 6°C and 15°C. The city begins to wake up from its winter slumber, but it's still not peak tourist season. |
March | 18° / 9° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, ranging from 9°C to 18°C. The city starts to bloom with the onset of spring, making it a beautiful time to visit. |
April | 22° / 12° | April is a pleasant month with temperatures between 12°C and 22°C. The city is in full bloom and the Easter celebrations add a festive vibe. |
May | 26° / 16° | May offers warm temperatures ranging from 16°C to 26°C. It's a great time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's historical sites. |
June | 30° / 20° | June marks the beginning of summer with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. The city is bustling with tourists and the beaches are a major attraction. |
July | 33° / 23° | July is the hottest month in Split, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 33°C. It's the peak of the tourist season, with numerous festivals and events taking place. |
August | 33° / 23° | August continues the summer heat with temperatures between 23°C and 33°C. The city is vibrant with tourists enjoying the beaches, festivals, and nightlife. |
September | 28° / 19° | September offers a respite from the summer heat, with temperatures between 19°C and 28°C. The tourist crowds start to thin, making it a good time to visit for a more relaxed experience. |
October | 24° / 15° | October sees a drop in temperature, ranging from 15°C to 24°C. The city's autumn colors and the wine harvest season make it a unique time to visit. |
November | 19° / 11° | November is a quiet month for tourism in Split, with temperatures between 11°C and 19°C. It's a good time to visit if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. |
December | 15° / 7° | December is the start of the winter season, with temperatures between 7°C and 15°C. The city is beautifully decorated for the Christmas season, offering a festive atmosphere. |
Did you know?
Places near by Split, Croatia
Trogir
A historic town and harbour on the Adriatic coast.
Krka National Park
A stunning national park known for its series of 7 waterfalls.
Zadar
A city on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, known for the Roman and Venetian ruins of its peninsular Old Town.
Hvar
A Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, best known as a summer resort.
Mostar
A city in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina, straddling the Neretva River.
Dubrovnik
A city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea, known for its distinctive Old Town.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
A forest reserve in central Croatia, known for a chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls.
Sarajevo
The capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a long and rich history of religious and cultural diversity.
Venice
A city in northeastern Italy and the capital of the Veneto region, known for its beautiful canals and architecture.
