One of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world is in Split, Croatia. Interested? I was for sure. Split is located on the beautiful Dalmatian Coast and combines ancient history with beautiful beaches in a way that works very well. My one-day trip through this beautiful city was filled with visits to the city’s best sights, from old buildings to beautiful views.
Plan a one-day trip to Split and immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural history, witnessing the perfect fusion of traditional and modern influences. As I walked through the city’s narrow streets, I was amazed by how the stone buildings that were hundreds of years old stood next to the lively, modern vibe that was everywhere.
To get the most out of my short time here, I needed a well-thought-out plan. This Split travel guide has everything you need, whether you’re interested in history or just love taking in the views of the coast. Are you ready to find out what Split has to offer? Let’s jump right in!
Start your day at the Diocletian Palace.
You can start your day off right at Diocletian’s Palace. This beautiful building, which is one of Split’s historical landmarks, gives a unique look into Roman architecture and the history of Split itself.
A tour of Diocletian’s Palace shows you secret courtyards and old walls that tell you stories about the past. Around every corner of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can learn more about the past.
Check out the historical core.
The palace is located in the heart of old Split and is almost like a living museum. The atmosphere is filled with old Roman buildings that create beautiful scenery everywhere you look.
As you walk around, you can be amazed at how history and city life come together right in front of your eyes.
Square with Peristyle
The next place you need to go is the lively Peristyle Square. This courtyard in the middle of Diocletian’s Palace is always busy and often has cultural events. Everyone is amazed by how well the Renaissance and Gothic styles work together here.
Don’t miss the beautiful Cathedral of Saint Domnius, which is right next to the square.
Temple of Jupiter
Inside the palace walls is another treasure: the Temple of Jupiter. This old building is a wonderful example of how talented Roman architects were. Take note of the original Egyptian sphinx that stands guard at the entrance.
It is a beautiful representation of Split’s historical sites. Exploring this temple will help you better understand how creative Roman builders were and how rich their history is.
Walk along Riva’s picturesque harbor.
After exploring the historical wonders of Diocletian’s Palace, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Split’s bustling Riva Harbor promenade. This place is excellent for both relaxing and watching people because it has a mix of old-world charm and modern energy.
As I walked along the Riva Harbor promenade, I was amazed at how well the old buildings and busy street life went together. With views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea in the background, the palm trees moved gently, making for a peaceful yet beautiful scene.
Along the promenade, there are a number of cozy cafes where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. Street performers add to the lively atmosphere by showing off local talent and giving the area contagious energy. It’s what makes Split’s coastal charm so special.
The views of the Adriatic Sea are simply breathtaking, making it a great place to take some stunning pictures. This promenade is always a great place to be, whether you want to enjoy a quiet evening or a busy daytime scene. At this point, you can rest your feet after a morning of sightseeing and really get a feel for this lovely Croatian city.
To sum up, you shouldn’t miss the chance to walk along the coast in Split. The promenade along Riva Harbor is a sensory delight at every turn, and there are a lot of chances to experience the culture and natural beauty of the area. In the evening, it’s a wonderful way to end the day before going to more fun places in Split.
Discover the Charm of Marjan Hill
Marjan Hill is one of the best places to enjoy nature in Split. It’s a peaceful place to get away from the busy city. Take in the beauty of this lush oasis and immerse yourself in the breathtaking views and historical sites.
Climb to Telegrin for panoramic views
For people who like to hike on Marjan Hill, getting to Telegrin is a must. Ascending the trail through the dense pine forests rewards you with stunning views of Split. Remember to bring your camera, because this is a wonderful place for photographers.
Explore the Hermitage Caves.
The Hermitage Caves on Marjan Hill are one of a kind places to learn about Split’s religious past. Because of their rough beauty, these old homes take you back in time.
As I walked through, I couldn’t help but think about the people who came here hundreds of years ago to be alone. Adding this stop to your hikes on Marjan Hill makes the adventure better.
Stop by the Split Zoo.
The Split Zoo on Marjan Hill is a wonderful place to go outside with your family in Split. The zoo is home to many different species, and a leisurely stroll through it is a wonderful way to break up your hike.
It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
What to do in Split, Croatia, in one day
History, culture, and beautiful scenery will all be a part of your Split day trip in a way that you will never forget. Please find below some travel tips for Split, Croatia. They will help you make the most of one day in this lovely city.
Visit Diocletian’s Palace first thing in the morning. As you walk through the historic core, take in the atmosphere of Peristyle Square, and see the Temple of Jupiter, it feels like you’ve gone back in time. After that, go to the Splendid Riva Harbor and take a stroll. You can enjoy the coastal air and maybe grab a coffee at a café while watching people.
To keep up with your day, go up Marjan Hill. The climb up to Telegrin is worth it, just for the views. The Hermitage Caves and the Split Zoo are also fun things to do on your trip. These places are hidden gems that go well with the historic sites.
Eager to know what to buy in Split?
Go to one of the busy markets to find lavender products, olive oil, and handcrafted goods that are unique to the area. Try some fresh seafood or a hearty bowl of Pašticada for lunch if you want to eat traditional Croatian food. You won’t want to miss the food at Split.
Find a spot by the water to watch the sun go down and enjoy a beautiful sunset. After a long day in Split, the harbor area at dusk is a great place to see the sights. You can easily get around if you bring a map with you or use a navigation app. You can also change the schedule to fit your interests and pace.
With these Split, Croatia travel tips, your one-day trip will be full of fun things to do and memories to cherish.
For more about Croatia, you can see my entire Croatia Travel Itinerary I shared on my other post.
FAQ
What are the top attractions in Split, Croatia?
Diocletian’s Palace, Peristyle Square, the Temple of Jupiter, and Marjan Hill are just a few of the many historic and cultural sites in Split. It has a mix of Roman architecture, beautiful views of the coast at Riva Harbor, and lush natural areas that are ideal for a day of exploring.
How can I maximize my one-day itinerary in Split?
For the best use of your day, get up early and visit Diocletian’s Palace. Visit the historical center, Peristyle Square, and the Temple of Jupiter. Then, take a walk along Riva Harbor to enjoy the Mediterranean vibe. Lastly, go to Marjan Hill to see a wide view and do things in nature. Don’t forget to eat and buy souvenirs from the area.
What should I see at Diocletian’s Palace?
Diocletian’s Palace, spanning a vast area rich in history, is a must-see. The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the Peristyle Square, and the Temple of Jupiter are all important places to visit. The Roman architecture is intricate, showcasing an interesting blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles.
How do I enjoy the Riva Harbor promenade?
Take a stroll along the Riva Harbor promenade. You can relax in the sun, take in views of the Adriatic Sea, and enjoy the lively vibe of the cafes and street performers. After seeing historic sites, it’s a wonderful spot to unwind, grab a coffee, and watch people.
What can I do on Marjan Hill?
Marjan Hill has many things to do, such as hiking to Telegrin for amazing views, exploring the historic Hermitage Caves, or taking the kids to the Split Zoo for a fun-filled day. Nature lovers and people looking for a quiet place to get away from the city will love this place.
What are some travel tips for spending a day in Split?
You should plan your day so that you can see important places like Marjan Hill, Riva Harbor, and Diocletian’s Palace. Try seafood specialties and local dishes, such as Peka. Lavender, olive oil, and traditional Croatian candies are all excellent things to bring back as souvenirs. Most of the city’s attractions are in the middle, making it simple to get around on foot.
What to buy in Split as souvenirs?
You can buy a lot of different things from Split as souvenirs. Items like lavender products, jewelry made by hand, olive oil, local wines, and traditional Dalmatian candies are very popular. The markets and shops in the historical center are great places to look for real Croatian treasures.
Is one day enough to explore Split?
You can see the main sights in Split in one day, including Diocletian’s Palace, Riva Harbor, and Marjan Hill. But Split has a lot more to offer. If you have time, you might want to extend your stay to fully experience the city’s long history, lively culture, and stunning natural beauty.
