Cruise Port Guide · Mediterranean
Things to Do in Split, Croatia
Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, built around a Roman emperor’s palace right on the harbour. It’s lively day and night, with the palm-lined Riva promenade steps from the port, and it’s a must-see on any Croatia cruise.
Split at a glance
“Split is so different than Dubrovnik! Both are must-see destinations.”
Top Things to Do in Split
Our recommendations on what to see and do, based on our own experience in port.
Stroll the Riva
The marina is steps from so much to see and do, and the Riva is where it’s happening! Day or night, you’ll find lots of people, restaurants, shops and stalls, and plenty of ambiance to soak up. Amy says the minute you arrive, it’s impossible not to take a stroll.
- Distance
- Steps from the port
- Cost
- Free
- Good for
- Cafés, shops and people-watching
- Busy
- Day and night
Diocletian’s Palace
Just a few steps from the Riva, Diocletian’s Palace is the largest and best-preserved example of Roman palatial architecture. It was built as an imperial palace and sea fortress, and today its remains are part of Split’s historic core, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. People still live and shop inside the walls!
- Distance
- A few steps from the Riva
- Cost
- Free to walk through
- UNESCO
- Since 1979
- Good for
- History lovers
An open-air bus tour
After wandering the city on foot, Amy and Christina took a one-hour Split Sightseeing Tour bus to see more of Split beyond the main tourist area. It was nice to sit and relax while taking in the sights, and the open-air bus kept them cool. The unexpected part? Getting hit in the face with palm fronds! It was a “what just happened” moment, then a lot of laughter, and they were wise enough to lean in the second time.
- Length
- About one hour
- You’ll see
- Beyond the main sights
- Good for
- A hot afternoon
- Watch out for
- Palm fronds!
Trogir
The historic town of Trogir is a short drive from Split. Amy’s group had some free time to explore its palm-lined harbour, restaurants and shops, and while wandering the small streets she found some of the most delicious ice cream she’s ever had. Her only regret was not getting more!
- How far
- A short drive from Split
- Good for
- A half-day trip
- Amy’s find
- Amazing ice cream
- Amy’s advice
- Give it more time
Read about Amy’s 9 days sailing Croatia on a small yacht with Unforgettable Croatia, from Dubrovnik to Split, with stops in Hvar, Krka National Park and Trogir.
More Things to Do in Split
Popular things to do that we book for clients.
Krka National ParkAmy visited Krka on the day before Split: a beautiful nature walk on a wooden path to the waterfalls where the rivers meet. Bring water and good shoes, as you’ll climb about 200 steps back to the entrance.
Get the ice creamAmy found some of the best ice cream of her life in Trogir, and Croatia’s gelato shops are everywhere. On a hot Split day, it’s practically required.
See the real SplitSplit’s old stone streets, and the graffiti you’ll spot around the city, are a daily reminder of Croatia’s history and its birth after the fall of Yugoslavia. It feels very different from Dubrovnik.
Free Things to Do in Split
Great ways to enjoy your day without spending a thing.
Diocletian’s Palace PeristyleStep off the ship and into the open-air heart of a Roman emperor’s palace, where locals still live and shop within the ancient walls.
Stroll the RivaSplit’s palm-lined waterfront promenade is right beside the port, perfect for a coffee break and people watching.
Marjan Hill ViewpointClimb the stone steps from the old town to the Vidilica lookout for sweeping views of Split, the harbour and nearby islands.
Know Before You Go in Split
- Bring water and walking shoes: especially for day trips to Krka, where you’ll climb about 200 steps in 30°C+ heat.
- Croatia uses the euro: so there’s no need to change money.
- Best months: Late May, June and September are the sweet spot: warm sea, fewer crowds. July and August are the hottest and busiest.
- Bring your passport: Passport valid for at least six months past your return date (the safest rule of thumb).
Split FAQs
Quick answers for your day in port
Can you walk from the Split cruise port to Diocletian’s Palace?
Yes, the Riva and Diocletian’s Palace are just a few steps from the harbour.
What are some free things to do in Split?
Some of our favourite free things to do in Split are diocletian’s Palace Peristyle, stroll the Riva and marjan Hill Viewpoint. Step off the ship and into the open-air heart of a Roman emperor’s palace, where locals still live and shop within the ancient walls.
Is Diocletian’s Palace free?
Yes, you can walk through the palace and the lanes inside its walls for free.
Can you visit Trogir or Krka from Split?
Yes. Trogir is a short drive away, and Krka National Park is a popular day trip. Amy visited both.
Which is better, Split or Dubrovnik?
Amy says they’re so different that both are must-sees. Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful walled cities in Europe with better beaches; Split feels more lived-in and authentic.
Do I need a passport for a Mediterranean cruise?
Canadians must travel with a valid passport, and we recommend it be valid for at least six months past your return date. Some destinations only require three months, but six months is the safest rule of thumb.
Does it cost more to book a Mediterranean cruise with a travel agent?
No, there’s no fee to book a cruise with Travitude Travel Group. You get a consultant who has actually sailed these ports and can help with pre-cruise hotels, private tours and transfers.
Start planning
Ready for an Adriatic cruise?
We’ve been there, and we’d love to help you plan every port, from tours and transfers to extra nights before or after your cruise, including Split.