One day in Split – Two ways to spend 24h in Split, Croatia

Split may be Croatia’s second-largest city, but its historic heart is delightfully compact—making it perfect for a power-packed 24-hour adventure. From Roman ruins to Game of Thrones scenes, from sea dips to hilltop views, this guide helps you experience the best of Split in just one day.

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Got just 24 hours in Split, Croatia? Don’t worry, this sun-soaked coastal city is compact, charming, and incredibly walkable, making it ideal for a whirlwind day of sightseeing, culture, and even a splash in the sea.

Whether you’re stopping by on a Dalmatian road trip, hopping off a cruise ship, or squeezing Split into your Croatia itinerary, you can absolutely see the best of Split in one day.

This 1-day Split itinerary covers all the must-sees, with two travel styles to choose from: slow-paced or packed with a day trip!

Where to stay in Split for a night

1 day in Split itinerary

Got just one day in Split? No worries—I’ve got you covered! Whether you’re all about slow-paced vibes or looking to squeeze in as much as possible, here are two options to suit your style:

A) Spend 1 full day in Split

Slow travel wins the race—and Split is the perfect city to wander, sip, swim, and soak in without rushing from sight to sight. Here’s how to make the most of your day in Split!

If you’ve only got one day, this itinerary gives you a feel for the city’s history, flavors, and fjaka-fueled rhythm. Take your time, enjoy a long lunch, and stop for a coffee or spritz—you’re on holiday, after all!

Want to dig deeper? This walking tour is the best way to unlock Split’s hidden stories. I highly recommend this one with Toni—he’ll bring Diocletian’s Palace to life with humor and heart.

Book your Split tours and activities:

Split walking tour – 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, or 6:00 PM (approx. 1h 50min)
Game of Thrones tour – 11:30 AM or 6:30 PM (approx. 2h)

10:00 AM: Bell tower of St. Domnius

Right off the Peristyle stands the Cathedral of St. Domnius—arguably the world’s oldest Catholic cathedral still in use. It’s beautiful, sure, but the real treat is the bell tower.

Brace yourself for narrow steps and a bit of a leg workout, but the 57-meter-high bell tower delivers epic views over the terracotta rooftops, Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. Totally worth the huffing and puffing!

The walking tour doesn’t take you inside, so this is your chance to enjoy some stunning views of Split.

10:30 AM: Coffee Break

Time to reward your climb with a slow coffee. Pick a sunny spot in the palace courtyard or grab a shady table tucked down an alley. In Croatia, coffee is a ritual—sip, people-watch, lean back.

11:00 AM: Split Old Town

Time to dive deeper into Split’s soul—its stunning, walkable Old Town. You’ve got three great options:

Take a Walking Tour (11:30 AM)
Join this top-rated tour led by a local historian who’ll peel back the layers of Split’s 1700-year-old history. It’s the perfect way to understand the palace, the people, and the legends that shaped this coastal gem.

Join a Game of Thrones Tour (11:30 AM)
Step into Meereen on this GOT Tour—you’ll visit real filming locations used in the series. Daenerys trained her dragons right here! Bonus: your guide is usually a mega fan, too.

Explore Split with a guide:

Split walking tour – 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, or 6:00 PM (approx. 1h 50min)
Game of Thrones tour – 11:30 AM or 6:30 PM (approx. 2h)

Prefer to Wander Solo?
Split is made for aimless strolling. If you skip the tours, here are some must-see gems (beyond the palace):

• Golden Gate – The grand entrance to the palace.
• Statue of Gregory of Nin – Rub the toe for luck.
• Clock Tower – Features 24 numbers instead of 12.
• Old Town Hall – Now a charming gallery.
• Temple of Jupiter & Sphinx – Roman meets Egyptian.
• Cardo & Decumanus Streets – Ancient Roman roads.
• Marmontova – Chic shops + people-watching.
• Riva Promenade – Grab a gelato and enjoy the view.
• Piazza & Fruit Square – Buzzing cafés and Renaissance buildings.
• Republic Square – Venice vibes with views.

1:30 PM: Lunch at a Konoba

After a morning exploring Split’s old town, it’s time to refuel! Head to a cozy konoba—a traditional Dalmatian tavern—for a leisurely, flavor-packed lunch. Start with a refreshing spritz (because hydration is key), then dive into some local favorites.

I suggest the seafood risotto—it’s like tasting the Adriatic on your plate. For something hearty, don’t miss the pašticada, a rich slow-cooked beef stew served with gnocchi.

Top lunch picks nearby:

• Fig – Nestled in Diocletian’s Palace, Fig delivers playful, globally inspired flavors like spicy eggs and sweet potato fries with chimichurri. A great option if you want something creative and casual.
• Konoba Korta – A cozy, traditional spot just steps from the palace—ideal if you’re craving authentic Dalmatian dishes in a relaxed setting.
• Zrno Soli – If you want something more upscale, this elegant seafood restaurant with marina views is perfect for a long, indulgent lunch.

3:00 PM: Fjaka on the beach

After lunch it’s time for a true Croatian ritual: fjaka.

Fjaka is that blissful, Zen-like state of doing nothing—and loving every second of it. It’s not laziness. It’s a lifestyle, best practiced on the beach, of course.

Here are your top picks for beaches in Split:

• Kasjuni Beach – Peaceful and scenic, with pine trees, turquoise waters, and a chill beach bar.
• Beach Bene – Hidden in Marjan Forest Park, with calm water and plenty of shade—great for families or a quiet read.
• Bacvice Beach – Social and lively, where locals play picigin and you can grab a cocktail right on the sand.
• Ovčice Beach – Just next to Bacvice but quieter, with calm waters and a more relaxed vibe. Perfect for a quick dip or post-lunch nap.

4:30 PM: Marjan Hill

After a lazy fjaka-filled afternoon, it’s time to head to Marjan Forest Park—Split’s leafy backyard.

Just a short stroll from the old town, Marjan is packed with pine trees, peaceful walking trails, and hidden rocky coves. It’s where locals come to walk, jog, cycle—or simply escape the buzz of the city.

Up for a view? Tackle the Marjan Hill Stairs. It’s about 300 steps to the top, but don’t worry—you’ve got this. At the viewpoint, Prva vidilica na Marjanu, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Split, the harbor, and islands in the distance. It’s picture-perfect.

Grab a cold drink at Teraca Vidilica, the chill café by the viewpoint. You’ve earned it.

6:00 PM: Back to Split Old Town

As the golden hour sets in, wander back to the heart of Split. The crowds thin, the streets cool down, and everything feels just a little more magical. Choose your preferred way to end the day:

Join a Walking Tour (6:00 PM)
If you skipped the morning one, now’s a great time. Fewer tourists, better light for photos, and the city takes on a different charm as day turns to evening.

Take the Game of Thrones Tour (6:30 PM)
Missed it earlier? Now’s your chance to walk the streets of Meereen as the shadows lengthen and the vibe gets a little more… dramatic.

Book your tour:

Split walking tour – 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, or 6:00 PM (approx. 1h 50min)
Game of Thrones tour – 11:30 AM or 6:30 PM (approx. 2h)

Wander & Shop
Revisit any sights you rushed through this morning, or pop into the palace’s boutique shops for some locally made souvenirs.

Sunset Aperitivo
End the day on a high noteand grab a drink at:

• Anywhere on the Riva – For people-watching and that salty sea breeze
• Cornaro Hotel Rooftop – Rooftop glam with 360° views
• Bar No. 1 – Hip vibes with solid cocktails

8:00 PM: Mediterranean dinner

As evening sets in, skip the tourist-packed waterfront eateries and head inland for a more authentic dining experience.

Dinner recommendations:

• MOKOSH Restoran – Tucked away from the crowds, this garden oasis blends Mediterranean and international flavors. Go for the beef cheeks or truffle tagliatelle—and absolutely save room for dessert.
• Villa Spiza – Small, local, and always packed for good reason. The rotating daily menu features whatever’s freshest—think grilled fish, homemade stews, and gnocchi. Arrive early!
• Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar – Housed in a former hardware store, this trendy spot offers a modern take on Dalmatian cuisine. Don’t miss the black risotto or homemade pasta.

Pair your meal with a glass of Plavac Mali, a rich local red that goes beautifully with seafood, meat, or just a good conversation.

9:00 PM: Split Riva Promenade

Cap off your night with a relaxed walk along the Riva promenade. Lined with palm trees and filled with the hum of conversations, this car-free waterfront is made for soaking up the atmosphere.

Breathe in the sea breeze, admire the lights twinkling on the Adriatic, and let Split leave its mark on you.

B) Split and beyond in one day

Not planning to island hop across Croatia? No worries—you can still escape the city and dip into the Adriatic’s turquoise waters with this one-day Split itinerary that combines coastal adventure with cultural highlights.

Start your day on the water, then return to Split for an afternoon of sightseeing, dinner, and a sunset stroll along the Riva. It’s the perfect mix of beach bliss and city charm.

Book your Split tours and activities:

Blue Lagoon Half Day Tour – 09:00 AM, or 2:30 PM (approx. 5h)
Split walking tour – 9:30 AM, 11:30 AM, or 6:00 PM (approx. 1h 50min)
Game of Thrones tour – 11:30 AM or 6:30 PM (approx. 2h)

9:00 AM Blue Lagoon & Trogir tour

Kick things off with a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon, one of the most dazzling swimming spots near Split. Known locally as Krknjaši Bay, this pocket of vivid blue water feels like something out of the tropics—crystal clear, shallow, and ideal for snorkeling or floating the morning away.

After your swim, the tour takes you to Trogir, a postcard-perfect town filled with Romanesque and Renaissance charm. Wander through its narrow stone alleys, admire the historic architecture, and soak up the old-world vibe.

On the way back, you’ll stop for a drink and dip at Laganini Beach Bar on Čiovo Island. It’s one of my favorite low-key hangouts—great views, relaxed vibes, and a great way to toast the morning adventure.

2:30 Quick Lunch

After your morning adventure, you’ll want something quick and tasty to fuel you up for the afternoon. Here are a couple of great spots for a fast yet satisfying lunch:

• Fife: A local favorite, offering hearty Croatian dishes like grilled fish, cevapi, and sarma. It’s quick, affordable, and the portions are generous. Located near the Riva, it’s the perfect spot for a speedy yet authentic Croatian meal.
• Kantun Paulina: Famous for its burek, this spot serves up freshly baked pastries filled with meat, cheese, or spinach. It’s a great grab-and-go option, especially if you’re in a hurry.
• Toto’s Burger Bar: If you’re craving something casual and filling, head to Toto’s for one of their delicious burgers—the Toto’s Classic or Cheese Lovers are crowd favorites. It’s a fast, satisfying lunch stop.

3:30 PM: Marjan Hill

After your morning adventure and a quick lunch in town, head over to Marjan Hill for some of the best views of Split. Just a short walk from the Old Town, this lush green area offers peaceful trails, shaded spots, and hidden coves—perfect for unwinding.

For the ultimate view, tackle the Marjan Hill Stairs—yes, it’s 300 steps, but trust me, it’s totally worth it! Once you reach the Prva Vidilica viewpoint, treat yourself to a break at Teraca Vidilica Bar. Grab a refreshing drink and take in the stunning panorama of red rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. It’s a moment of pure relaxation.

6:00 PM: Split Walking Tour

Make the most of your limited time in Split by booking this walking tour. Your guide, Toni, who holds a Master’s degree in history, will provide a local’s insight, bringing Split’s rich history to life beyond what you’ll find in guidebooks.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll discover:

• Riva Harbor: Start at the lively Riviera—Split’s heartbeat—where you’ll enjoy incredible views of Diocletian’s Palace.
• Old Split: Wander through historical streets, where medieval secrets and Roman wonders await at every corner.
• Diocletian’s Palace: Marvel at the Peristyle, the ancient square, and learn about the palace’s well-preserved structures, enhanced by Toni’s unique 3D reconstructions.
• Cathedral of Saint Domnius: While you won’t be going inside, you’ll uncover the fascinating story of this Roman mausoleum turned cathedral.
• Temple of Jupiter: Take in one of the world’s best-preserved late Roman temples and explore some quirky construction mishaps the Romans made.
• Grgur Ninski Statue: Meet this iconic landmark and discover its cultural significance for Croatia—hint: it’s all about language!
• Golden Gate: This grand entrance to the palace shows off impressive medieval architecture, alongside remnants of Roman fortifications.
• Piazza: End the tour in Piazza Square, the heart of the city since medieval times, surrounded by stunning historical buildings.

8:00 PM: Mediterranean dinner

Here are some top dinner recommendations:

• Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar: Located in a former hardware store, this trendy spot offers a modern take on Dalmatian cuisine. Don’t miss the black risotto or homemade pasta—pair it with a glass of local wine for the perfect meal.
• MOKOSH Restoran: Tucked away from the crowds, this hidden gem offers a peaceful garden setting and a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and international flavors. Go for the beef cheeks or truffle tagliatelle—and don’t forget to save room for their delectable desserts!
• Villa Spiza: Small, local, and always packed for good reason. The menu changes daily based on what’s freshest, so expect delicious options like grilled fish, homemade stews, and gnocchi. Be sure to arrive early to snag a table!

9:00 PM: Stroll down the Riva

Cap off your evening with a relaxed stroll along the Riva promenade. Lined with swaying palm trees, this vibrant waterfront promenade offers a beautiful setting to unwind and take in the sights and sounds of Split.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Split in One Day

Is one day in Split enough?

Yes! One day is enough to explore the old town, visit Diocletian’s Palace, and even fit in a beach break or a half-day boat tour. While you’ll only scratch the surface, Split is compact and easy to explore in 24 hours. That being said, if you can spare extra time, you won’t regret staying in Split longer.

Can you walk around Split?

Absolutely! The old town is pedestrian-only and easily walkable. You can see the main attractions like the Peristyle, Riva promenade, and bell tower on foot. Comfortable shoes are recommended—those cobblestones are no joke.

What should I not miss in Split?

Don’t leave without walking through Diocletian’s Palace, climbing the St. Domnius bell tower, and enjoying the view from Marjan Hill. If you’re into pop culture, the Game of Thrones tour is a must!

Is Split worth visiting or should I go to Dubrovnik instead?

Both are worth visiting, but Split has a more local, lived-in vibe compared to Dubrovnik’s polished (and more touristy) feel. It’s also a great base for exploring nearby islands like Hvar or Brač.

How should I spend one day in Split from a cruise ship?

If you’re arriving by cruise, stick to the relaxed version of the itinerary. The port is only a short walk from the old town, so you can easily explore the palace, grab lunch at a konoba, and even squeeze in some beach time.