Epic 3 Day Split Croatia Itinerary (What to Do, Eat + Don’t Miss)

Planning your Split Croatia itinerary and not sure how to fit it all in without feeling rushed?

I’ve got you. Split was my first stop on my one-week trip to Croatia, and after spending three full days here, I completely fell in love with it.

The history, old world castle vibes, and some of the best food I’ve ever had (I’m still thinking about those oysters) made it one of my favorite cities of all time… and yes, I liked it more than Dubrovnik.

This itinerary is for you if… It’s your first time in Split, and you want a plan that’s easy to follow and actually makes sense. Not one that has you running all over the place or missing the best parts.

I’ve mapped out exactly how to spend your time, what’s actually worth doing, where to eat, and the experiences you don’t want to miss (including one that ended up being my favorite day of the entire trip).

If you want an epic trip filled with iconic sights, amazing food, and just enough downtime to enjoy it… You’re in the right place.

The Perfect 3 Day Itinerary for Split

I’ve laid out this itinerary step by step so you can follow it exactly or pick and choose what fits your travel style.

Either way, you’re going to hit the highlights, eat really well, and have a few of those “this is why I travel” kind of moments along the way.

Arrival Day: Transfer from Airport + Check In + Dinner

Today is really just about getting checked in as smoothly and stress-free as possible.

Land at The Split Airport

You’ll likely be arriving mid to late afternoon. The airport is about 15 miles outside of the old town

Transfer to Your Accommodations

I prefer private transfers when I arrive because it’s just really nice to have someone waiting specifically for you when you get through customs and enjoy a stress-free transfer after a really long day of travel.

I’ve used Welcome pickups many times in Europe and highly recommend them!

If you’ve never used welcome pickups and don’t feel comfortable, then I also highly recommend booking a transfer with Viator. They also provide highly reliable and trustworthy transfers.

Note: Split old town is pedestrian only, so no matter how you arrive, you’ll likely walk the last few minutes with your luggage. If you’re staying deep inside the old streets, be sure to pack accordingly.

Check In

I stayed at the Mint Luxury Rooms Hotel tucked deep inside the old streets of Split. I had a gorgeous room with a view of the cobblestone streets below.

The rooms have been recently remodeled and are beautiful and super comfortable.

It had the best location, and I loved the privacy, with a locked entrance to the building and your own key to the building and your room door. This was really important to me since I was traveling Solo throughout Croatia.

I highly, highly recommend staying here.

Dinner

After I checked in and relaxed a bit, I went downstairs and was led by my nose to a restaurant called Mazzgoon. It is just steps down the narrow alley from my hotel.

It had a gorgeous, romantic setting, and on top of that, it had great reviews.

I ordered the catch of the day along with a glass of wine and a bruschetta appetizer. Everything was amazing.

💡 I did not need to make a reservation.

Kate’s Tip: Don’t pick the wine yourself. Just ask the waiter for a pairing they recommend with your meal. They are very talented at this! I did this with every meal in Croatia and they never disappointed!

Day 1: Food Tour + Hike Marjan Hill + Walk the Riva

Today is your first full day in Split, and it’s going to be packed with my favorite reason to travel… Food!

Morning

7:00 am – 8:00 am: Explore Diocletian’s Palace at Sunrise

I got up early and explored the Diocletian’s palace at sunrise. It’s my favorite way to explore and really feel a city without the crowds! And then watch it come alive as locals start to go about their day and open shops.

Plus, that early golden light makes for great photos.

8:00 am: Breakfast at Cafe & Restaurant Lvxor

This is a great spot to grab a cappuccino and a light breakfast on your first morning.

The cafe is located right on the main square in Diocletian’s palace with views of the ancient ruin columns.

You can sit on cushions laid out on the stone steps and people-watch, or grab a table inside, which has gorgeous frescoes on the ceiling, original tile work, and columns from the original Palace.

I chose to sit inside because I loved the elegant vibe.

I didn’t need a reservation since I got there shortly after they opened. I ordered the eggs Benedict, and it was so good! Plus, the cappuccinos were so good I ordered two!

Kate’s Tip: Make sure to eat light because you’ll need room for what’s next!

Afternoon

10:30 am – 2:30 pm: Split Food Tour

My all-time favorite thing I like to do first when I get to a new city is to join a food tour. Because trying and learning about new food is one of my favorite reasons to travel in the first place.

I joined a small group food tour, and to my surprise, I was the only one on the tour, so I got a private experience, which was incredible! It really pays to book this tour in the morning on a weekday, which seems to be the slower time.

It was led by a true local who shared the most authentic dishes and shared fun facts along the way. We stopped at 5 eateries and walked through the local street market. The food was very good, and the portions were generous.

I also got to enjoy local wine pairings with several of the dishes and learn how rare Coratian wine is.

My guide was awesome and let me run wild with questions, and she even took me to buy real, authentic, handmade jewelry since this is my favorite souvenir to take home with me.

I can’t recommend this tour enough!

Kate’s Tip: Bring a bottle of water with you, especially if you’re doing this tour in the summer, as I did. You do a lot of walking, and it gets hot. Also, wear comfortable shoes!

2:30 – 4:30 pm: Climb Marjan hill

If you skip this… I’m going to lovingly call you out! This is such a low-effort, high-reward experience.

The food tour finishes very near the steps that lead up to Marjan Hill.

So I decided to head up for some amazing views and grabbed a refreshing drink at the terrace cafe halfway up.

This is a short hike that starts from the far West end of the Old Town. Just enter “Majan Hill Stairs” into Google Maps. You’ll see a big stone staircase entrance… That’s your starting point.

You’ll climb about 300 steps and follow a paved path that is well-marked the whole way. It’ll take you about 30-45 minutes to reach the top. And there are benches and viewpoints along the way up with some shade.

At the top, there is an observation deck with stunning views and an old Zoo that has donkeys you can pet.

I also loved that this doesn’t seem to be a really popular thing to do because there were no crowds and I didn’t have to wait to grab a drink at the terrace cafe.

Evening

5:00 pm: Street Food Snack @ ST Burek

Now that you’ve hiked off all the food you ate earlier today on the food tour, you probably have room to try the most iconic Croatian street food… Burek.

And the best place to try it is from ST Burek, which you’ll walk past on your way back to Old Town.

This is where the locals go to actually eat it.

I got the spinach-and-cheese Burek, which is the most popular, but honestly, I’d order it with some meat if I were you. I felt like something was missing in mine.

And to be completely honest, I wasn’t entirely impressed.

I think maybe I ordered one that was pretty bland, and I’d have a different opinion with other choices, but regardless, I still think you have to try it.

It’s the most Croatian thing you can eat. And traveling is all about trying authentic food.

6:00 pm – 7:30 pm: Wine Tasting @ Zinfandel Bar

Now it’s time to wash down your street food with some very underrated Croatian Wine!

The best place to taste wine in Split without going on a tour outside of the city is at the Zinfandel Food & Wine Bistro.

They have three different wine tasting options and last about 1.5 hours. Each tasting is paired with a complimentary snack.

Kate’s Tip: Be sure to make a reservation because they are popular and fill up fast. I made mine the day before in August.

7:30 pm – 8:30 pm: Walk the Riva (Split’s Waterfront) and Watch the Sunset

The Riva is a promenade lined with palm trees, little street vendor booths selling handmade goods, and restaurants. You’ll see boats rocking in the harbor and watch the soft golden light hit the stone buildings as the sky turns shades of gold and pink.

The energy slows down with couples sitting on the benches, locals out for evening strolls, and music coming from the bars and restaurants.

It’s the best time to visit the Riva in my opinion. A perfect mix of lively but relaxed.

9:00 pm: Dinner @ Adriatic Sushi & Oyster Bar

I know, I know… today has been a big day of eating and drinking, but trust me, this place is a must stop for dinner. Besides, it’s light, and you’ll be glad you made room.

Adriatic Sushi & Oyster Bar has the best sushi in Split and the best oysters I’ve ever eaten in my life! I’m not even joking.

I had heard that Croatia has the best oysters in the world, but I was skeptical because how great can an oyster really be? right?

Well, the rumors are completely true! They are so buttery smooth and kinda sweet. You really do not need to add anything to them.

I’ll warn you, though… they are expensive at 9 euros per oyster, but they are definitely worth the splurge!

💡 Kate’s Tip: Be sure you make a reservation for dinner. This is a very popular spot for dinner.

Fun Fact: Croatia’s water is ridiculously clear with very low pollution, and it’s rich in natural plankton. This combination creates oysters that taste clean, fresh, and slightly sweet instead of briny or muddy.

Day 2: Blue Cave & 5 Islands Speedboat Tour

Today is solely dedicated to a full-day Island Hopping tour. It’ll be a long day, but I promise it’ll be one of your favorite days in Croatia.

Morning

7:00 am: Meet Your Tour Boat

Rise and shine early to get to the West end of the Riva, where you’ll meet your boat for the Blue Cave and 5-island tour.

Kate’s Tip: They want you to be punctual and will not wait for you because it’s a long enough day as is. So show up on time.

7:30 am – 7:00 pm: Full Day Blue Cave & Island Hopping Tour

This is hands down one of the coolest days you’ll have in Croatia.

You’re cruising on a speedboat and bouncing between islands, caves, and swimming spots that honestly don’t look real. It’s fast-paced, a little adventurous, and one of those days you’ll think about forever.

You’ll visit the famous Blue Cave, stop in a little island fishing village on Vis, swim in water so clear, and end on the island of Hvar (which I absolutely loved and want to go back to).

It’s a full-day tour, and yes… you’ll be tired by the end, but I promise you’ll be saying it was your favorite day of the trip.

What I loved most was the variety. One minute you’re in a glowing cave, the next you’re jumping into the bluest water, and then you’re walking through a harbor, grabbing a drink. It never feels repetitive, and the speedboat ride itself is half the fun.

Just come prepared with everything you need for the day…

Evening

7:00 pm: Arrive Back in Split

Once I arrived back in Split, I was soooo ready for a shower! You probably will be too… So head back to your accommodation and freshen up for dinner.

For dinner tonight, I did not make any reservations and just checked out some spots that looked good yesterday while I was wandering around.

Here are some places I recommend you check out for Dinner:

• Villa Spiza – It’s a small hole in the wall and a very local restaurant. They only cook what they caught fresh that day, and when they run out, they are out. They do not take reservations and only accept cash. It came highly recommended by my tour guide. (I was going to eat here, but I ran out of cash.) I poked my head in… Very unique dining experience!
• Galerija – I ate here this night. I loved the romantic atmosphere, cozied up outside under a canopy and twinkling lights. The food was amazing. I ordered a burrata salad, which was to die for, and a huge charcuterie board. (I didn’t have a reservation and only waited 15 minutes to get a table)
• Uje Restaurant Oyster Bar – This adorable little oyster bar was right below my hotel, and I couldn’t resist popping in for some Champagne and oyster shots. They were so so friendly in there, and the oysters were the most affordable I’d found. Perfect nightcap!

Day 3: Walking History Tour + Kasjuni Beach

Today is a mix of history and beach time! You’ll start with my favorite walking tour I’ve ever taken on my travels thus far, and then relax on a gorgeous beach. Trust me… you’re gonna love the beach!

All in all, it’s a pretty chill day. Just the way I like it.

Morning

8:00 am: Coffee @ Cafe Kala

This is my favorite cafe I found in Split. It’s tucked away from the main tourist path and is probably the most relaxed coffee spot in the city walls.

And what I really loved was how affordable they are. Both cappuccinos and alcoholic drinks were cheaper than anywhere I found. And good too!

You can sit inside for a more retro vibe or outside on the patio for a fairytale vibe. I chose to sit outside.

After I finished my cappuccino, I had some time to kill before my walking tour started, so I decided to have a refreshing Hugo Spritz. (My favorite spritz of all time) I know it’s the morning, but I’m on vacation. lol

10:00 am – 11:30 am : Walking Tour of Split and Diocletian’s Palace

First, let me just say I’m not really someone who delves deeply into history when I travel, but… This walking tour really changed my mind!

I don’t know how I got so lucky, but I was the only one on this tour, so I had the guide all to myself!

He did an absolutely amazing job making the unique history and stories of Split fun and entertaining. I loved his sense of humor, and he made me fall even more in love with Split!

As soon as my tour finished, I texted my husband to say this was the BEST walking tour I’ve ever done!

I highly, highly recommend it! For the price, you can’t beat it!

Afternoon

12:00 pm: Lunch at Leonis Restaurant

This is a gorgeous restaurant tucked along the wall inside the city. I chose this place because I was told they have the best octopus salad and squid ink risotto.

I wanted to try both, but unfortunately, they were not serving the squid ink risotto on the lunch menu.

I did get to try the octopus salad, and it did not disappoint. It was fresh, light, and delicious! And paired with a glass of champagne, I felt like this is exactly what vacation is made of!

PS. If you’ve never tried octopus… You have to! It’s one of my all-time favorite foods from the sea.

💡 No reservation needed for lunch!

1:00 pm: Climb the Bell Tower in Diocletian’s Palace

I’m totally a sucker for bell towers and views, so naturally, I could not leave Split without climbing up.

You can find the ticket office in the main square directly across from the cathedral steps and bell tower. My ticket cost me 7 euros to go up.

The climb starts off steep and tight, but then opens up and becomes pretty easy with metal staircases and a railing.

You’ll climb about 180 steps, but the view from the top is worth it.

2:00 pm: Head to Kasjuni Beach

After climbing the Bell Tower, head back to your hotel and pack a bag for the beach.

Kasjuni Beach is a little off the beaten path, but according to my research, it’s considered the best beach near Split and a favorite spot for locals.

I just booked an Uber for pretty cheap, which took me right to the beach. It’s only about a 20-minute drive, but it’s well worth the little bit of effort it takes to get there!

I loved Kasjuni Beach! It’s more secluded and surrounded by nature and thick trees. You can even see some ruins of tombs up on the cliffside.

The beach is a large crescent shape, and the pebbles (no sand) are much smaller and easier to lay out and walk on. The water was warm and crystal clear in August, and there were beach chairs and umbrellas you could rent.

I chose not to pay for a chair and just lay out my beach towel for free.

Also, there was a really fun beach bar called Joe’s Beach Bar, where you can grab drinks and small bites.

This was probably my #1 favorite beach I visited the entire trip!

Kate’s Tip: If you walk up the steep drive from the beach, you’ll find some hidden trails that take you down to some hidden coves and small beaches for a more intimate setting if you want a break from the lively scene on the main Beach.

Evening

5:30 pm: Uber back to Split and freshen up for Dinner

Time to head back to Split.

I just got another Uber back.

Kate’s Tip: At this hour, there are a lot of Ubers trying to make their way down the very narrow and steep road into the cove where the beach is. I recommend you walk up the steep drive to the main road at the top. Set your pick-up location from there. Otherwise, you’ll be waiting a long time for them to just make it down the driveway.

7:00 pm: Dinner & Then Pack

I’ll be real with you… I totally skipped dinner this night.

I was pretty wiped out from the heat and not really hungry. But where my Uber driver dropped me off I spotted a little shop selling Turkish baklava and Turkish delights. I could not resist!

I hadn’t had authentic baklava and other delights since my trip to Turkey, so I got a few treats, took them back to my hotel room, and enjoyed them as I relaxed and packed to head to Dubrovnik in the morning.

But you do you… If you’re hungry, head out and grab a sit-down dinner.

Departure Day: Take the ferry to Dubrovnik

If Split is just the first stop on your Croatian trip then today you’ll head to your next location. For me that was the city of Dubrovnik.

7:00 am: Coffee to Go from D16 Coffee

This little coffee shop was only a 1 min walk from my hotel and made the most American Latte I’ve found in Croatia yet.

Get it to go and walk your way down to the Ferry port. (only about 15 min walk)

8:00 am: Take the ferry to Dubrovnik

I booked my Ferry ticket online with Omio for $66 one way.

And I’m really glad I did because the ticket booths had long lines down by the pier. Booking online in advance let me get to the front of the line for the ferry, so I could get a good seat!

The ferry was comfortable and took about 4.5 hours to get to Dubrovnik.

Kate’s Tip: Don’t try to rent a car and drive to Dubrovnik. If you take the wrong route, you could run into border checks at the Bosnia & Herzegovina border, which could have very long delays! The ferry is just easier and more relaxing!

Things to Know Before You Go To Split

I want to share a few key things you should know that’ll help you better plan your trip.

Best Time to Visit Split

The best time to visit Croatia isn’t quite what it used to be.

For years, everyone said spring and fall were the sweet spot for good weather and fewer crowds… but that secret is definitely out. Even my tour guides mentioned that those months have turned into some of their busiest.

If you don’t mind a little heat, summer (July and August) might surprise you.

I went in August, and honestly, outside of Dubrovnik, it didn’t feel nearly as busy as I expected. I still found plenty of places to slow down and enjoy without feeling like I was fighting crowds.

As for weather, summers are hot (think 80s and up), shoulder seasons are more mild and comfortable (60s–70s), and winters get cold inland with snow, while the coast stays relatively mild in the 40s–50s.

And lately, with prices going up and tourism shifting a bit, crowds don’t seem quite as intense overall—so you’ve got more flexibility than you might think when picking your travel dates.

How Many Days Do You Need in Split

I had one full week in Croatia, and it felt like a good amount of time. I was able to see a lot without feeling like I was constantly racing from one place to the next.

That said, there were still a few things I missed… Like getting to a national park or spending more time hopping around the islands (which I’d absolutely prioritize next time).

If I were planning it again, I’d aim for about 10 to 12 days.

That gives you enough time to see the main highlights, slow things down a bit, and still have time for a national park or extra island time without it feeling like you’re constantly moving.

How to Get From the Airport to the City Center

Getting from the airport to Old Town Split is super easy.

The airport (Split Airport) is only about a 30-minute drive to the city center, depending on traffic.

After a long travel day, this is one of those moments where you just want something simple and smooth.

Here are your easiest options…

Taxi/Uber

Taxis and Ubers are both easy to grab right outside the airport, and honestly, they cost about the same.

You can expect to pay somewhere around 40–50 euros to get into the city center. Prices can fluctuate a little depending on time of day and demand, but that’s a good ballpark.

If you go the taxi route, just make sure they turn the meter on or agree on a price before you leave. Most drivers are totally fine, but it’s always good to double-check so there are no surprises at the end of the ride.

Uber is a solid option, too, if you want to avoid any guesswork with pricing, since it’s all set in the app.

Private Transfers

This is my personal go-to… and what I’d recommend if you want the easiest experience possible.

I booked a private transfer through Welcome Pickups, and I’ve used them multiple times on different trips.

The driver is waiting for you when you land (no wandering around trying to figure things out), they help with your bags, and you go straight to your hotel. No lines, no confusion.

It usually costs about the same as a taxi or Uber, but feels way less stressful and more comfortable. The cars are nicer, the drivers are professional, and after a long flight… It’s just a really good way to start your trip.

How to Get Around Split

Getting around Split is honestly really simple… which is one of the reasons I loved it so much.

Most of the time, you won’t even need to think about transportation. Between how walkable it is and how easy it is to hop on a tour or ferry, getting from place to place feels pretty effortless.

Walkable Old Town

This is where you’ll spend most of your time… and the best part is, you can do it all on foot.

Old Town Split is completely pedestrian-only inside the walls, which means no cars, no traffic, and no stress. Just stone streets, little alleyways, and places to wander into.

Everything is close (restaurants, shops, and historical sites), so you can easily explore without ever needing transportation. Half the fun is just getting a little lost and seeing what you find.

Guided Tour

I’m a big fan of guided tours, especially when I first get to a new place.

They take all the mental load off you. No figuring everything out, no wondering if you’re missing something important. You just show up and enjoy it.

Whether it’s a walking tour of Old Town or something like the island-hopping tour, it’s one of the easiest ways to get your bearings, see more, and actually understand what you’re seeing instead of just walking past it.

By Bus

Split does have a bus system that runs outside of Old Town and connects different parts of the city.

If you’re comfortable using public transportation, this will be your cheapest option for getting around.

That said, since I was traveling solo, I personally didn’t use the buses. I just preferred sticking to walking, tours, and Ubers. It was easier and more comfortable for me.

By Ferry

If you’re planning to explore beyond Split (which you should), ferries are the way to do it.

They connect Split to places like Dubrovnik and popular islands like Hvar and Vis, and they’re surprisingly easy and comfortable.

I recommend booking your ferry tickets online in advance. I used Omio, and it made the whole process really simple.

Rent a Car

You can absolutely rent a car if you want total freedom and flexibility.

But personally… I don’t think it’s the best option here.

Driving in Croatia can be a bit of a headache… roads can be narrow and winding, traffic gets busy, and there are tolls to factor in. Plus, if you’re driving between Split and Dubrovnik, you can accidentally cross through Bosnia and Herzegovina without even realizing it, which adds an extra layer of logistics.

For this trip, I’d skip the car and stick to ferries, tours, and walking. It’s just easier and way more enjoyable.

Where to Stay in Split

If it’s your first time in Split, do yourself a favor and stay inside the Old Town walls.

This is where everything is. The restaurants, the history, the little cobblestone streets you’ll wander through… it’s all right here. You can roll out of bed and be steps away from everything you came to see, which makes such a difference, especially on a short trip.

Yes, it’s usually a little more expensive than staying outside the walls… but in my opinion, it’s 100% worth it.

You’ll save time, energy, and, honestly, just enjoy your experience so much more being right in the middle of it all.

This Is Where I Stayed: Mint Luxury Rooms

I stayed at Mint Luxury Rooms, tucked deep inside the little stone streets of Old Town, and I absolutely loved it.

My room was gorgeous, recently remodeled, and super comfortable with a view looking down onto the cobblestone streets below.

I walked in and immediately thought, “this is perfect.”

What really stood out to me though was how safe and private it felt. There’s a locked entrance to the building, plus your own key for both the main door and your room. Since I was traveling solo, that extra layer of security meant everything.

I highly, highly recommend staying here. It checked every box for me… location, comfort, and peace of mind.

Where to Eat in Split

Split completely surprised me when it came to food. I went in expecting good seafood… but it ended up being one of my all-time favorite foodie cities.

Between the fresh seafood, local wine, and cozy little restaurants tucked into the stone streets, I was constantly finding spots I loved.

These are the places I personally ate at (or had recommended by locals) and would absolutely go back to.

Breakfast & Coffee

Cafe & Restaurant Lvxor

Right in the main square of Diocletian’s Palace, this is such a fun spot for your first breakfast in Split. You can sit on cushions on the steps or inside with beautiful historic details—I ordered the eggs Benedict and multiple cappuccinos, and both were so good.

Cafe Kala

This ended up being my favorite coffee spot in Split. It’s tucked away from the busy areas and has a more relaxed, local feel, and the prices were actually cheaper than most places I found (which was a nice surprise).

Lunch

Leonis Restaurant

A gorgeous little spot built right into the old city walls. I went for the octopus salad, and it was fresh, light, and exactly what I wanted for a mid-day meal.

Ciri Biri Bela

A super popular local spot known for fresh, simple dishes done really well. It has a cozy, tucked-away feel and is a great place if you want something a little quieter and more relaxed.

ST Burek

This is where you go to try one of Croatia’s most iconic foods. It’s quick, casual street food and even if mine wasn’t my favorite thing I ate, it’s still something you kind of have to try while you’re here.

Dinner

Mazzgoon

This was my first dinner in Split, and it set the bar high. It’s tucked into a narrow alley with a romantic vibe, and everything I ordered from the fresh catch of the day to the wine was amazing.

Adriatic Sushi & Oyster Bar

Hands down the best oysters I’ve ever had in my life. They were buttery, slightly sweet, and so fresh you don’t even need to add anything. Expensive, yes, but absolutely worth it!

Villa Spiza

A tiny, no-frills local restaurant that only serves what’s fresh that day. It’s cash-only, no reservations, and when they sell out… they’re done. It came highly recommended by my tour guide as a very unique experience!

Galerija

This is where I went for a relaxed, cozy dinner under twinkling lights. The atmosphere was super romantic, and the food was just as good. I had a burrata salad and a charcuterie board that I’m still thinking about.

Kate’s Tip: I really recommend you avoid eating along the Riva. All the restaurants along the waterfront are super touristy and quite low quality for what you pay. Walk a few blocks into the walls of Old Town for more authentic and better food.

Packing Essentials You Need For Split

Packing for Split is pretty straightforward… but there are a few things that will make your trip so much more comfortable if you have them.

FYI: Split has that classy, old-town feel, and people do tend to dress a little nicer… but at the end of the day, comfort wins here.

Between the cobblestone streets, the heat, and the rocky beaches, having the right gear can honestly make or break your experience.

Here are the essentials I was really glad I had with me…

Comfortable Shoes

This is non-negotiable.
The cobblestone streets in Split are super smooth and can get really slippery, especially if they get a little wet.
I mostly wore sneakers and my Birkenstocks, and both worked great. Just make sure whatever you bring has good traction.
Skip the heels… you will regret it almost immediately.

Water Shoes or Sandals

Most of the beaches in Croatia are rocky, not sandy, which can be a little rough on your feet.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals make getting in and out of the water so much easier (and way less painful). Plus, they’re great for walking along the shoreline or exploring little coves.

Dry Bag Backpack

This is one of those things you don’t think about until you really need it.
Between boat tours and beach days, having a dry bag backpack keeps your phone, money, and everything else protected.
It’s especially nice if you’re doing any island hopping or spending time on boats.

Neck Fan

I know… it sounds a little extra, but hear me out.
It gets hot in Split, especially in the summer, and those narrow stone streets don’t get much airflow. My neck fan was an absolute lifesaver when I was walking around during the day.

EU Adapter

Don’t forget this one.
Croatia uses the standard European outlets, so you’ll need an EU adapter to charge your phone, camera, and everything else.
I always bring my universal one with multiple USB ports so I can charge everything at once—it just makes life easier.

Tips For Visiting Split

Split is actually a really easy place to visit… but there are a few little things that can make your experience even better if you know them ahead of time…

Tip 1: Get Up Early at Least Once

I know you’re on vacation… but trust me on this one.

Old Town in the early morning is a completely different experience. It’s quiet, peaceful, and you can actually enjoy the space without weaving through crowds.

It’s also the best time for photos and just taking it all in before the city fully wakes up.

Tip 2: Make Dinner Reservations (Especially in Summer)

Split gets busy… and the good restaurants fill up fast.

If there’s a place you really want to try, don’t just “wing it” and hope for the best like I did. Make a reservation earlier in the day or even the day before.

Otherwise, you might end up wandering around hungry (which is not the vibe). Or waiting in line to get into a place.

Tip 3: Carry Some Cash (More Than You Think)

A lot of places take cards, but not all of them.

Some smaller restaurants, local spots, and places like bakeries and markets are cash-only. I also found a lot of the smaller island villages and beach bars only accept cash.

A even when cards are accepted, there can be minimums.

Having some local cash on you just makes everything easier.

Tip 4: Plan Around Cruise Ship Times

When cruise ships are in port, the narrow streets in Old Town can feel a lot more crowded… especially mid-day.

If you can, try to plan your city exploring early in the morning or later in the evening. During the middle of the day, go on a tour or take a day trip so you’re not in the city when its packed.

You’ll have a much better experience and avoid the peak chaos.

Where to Go After Split

Dubrovnik posts coming soon!

That’s a Wrap

If you follow this Split Croatia itinerary, you’re going to see a lot, eat really well, and have an amazing time!

But here’s my biggest piece of advice… don’t try to do everything.

Leave a little space in your days to just wander, pop into a place that catches your eye, or sit down for one more drink than you planned.

Those are always the moments that end up being your favorite.

Thanks for reading!

I’ll catch ya on the next adventure.