What to Do in Split in 2 Days – A Magical Walk Through History

Split is a city that breathes history. Located on the Dalmatian coast, it’s Croatia’s second-largest city and a place where ancient Roman ruins blend seamlessly with lively Mediterranean culture. Its beating heart is Diocletian’s Palace — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that isn’t just a monument, but a living, breathing part of the city. Locals still live, shop, and dine within its stone walls.

Founded over 1,700 years ago, Split grew from the palace of a Roman emperor into a bustling city. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, and walking through its alleys feels like time traveling. Beyond its history, Split charms with its palm-lined promenade, delicious cuisine, and easy access to stunning islands like Hvar and Vis.

I highly recommend visiting Split in May, June, or after mid-September, when the weather is ideal and the summer crowds are fewer.

Day 1: Exploring the Old Town

Walking through Split’s historic center is like stepping inside a medieval fantasy. It’s compact, incredibly well-preserved, and full of vibrant energy. The maze of alleyways, Roman architecture, and sunny piazzas will pull you in immediately.

Republic Square (Prokurative)

I started my journey at Republic Square, or Prokurative, a beautiful open plaza lined with neo-Renaissance buildings reminiscent of Venice. Built in the 19th century under the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, it’s now a cultural hub for festivals and concerts. It’s the perfect spot to start your day and soak up the atmosphere. Have a coffee and enjoy the architecture.

From here, I wandered into the winding alleys, passing cute shops and cozy bars.

Radić Brothers Square (Fruit Square) & Narodni trg

My path took me to Fruit Square, a charming plaza named after the fruit market that once operated there. Keep an eye out for the statue of Marko Marulić, a famous Croatian poet, and the Venetian tower looming above.

Just a few steps away is Narodni trg (People’s Square), the city’s main square since the Middle Ages, with its stunning old clock tower and lively cafes.

Jupiter’s Temple

Jupiter’s Temple is a small but incredibly well-preserved Roman temple. Originally dedicated to Jupiter, it was later converted into a baptistery.

• Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM
• Entrance fee: €4
  The dark stone interior and ancient ceiling carvings make it one of Split’s hidden gems.

Cyprian’s Palace and the Clock Tower

As you continue walking, you’ll spot Cyprian’s Palace with its lovely archways and an elegant clock tower that rises above the surrounding streets. It’s a perfect photo stop and a lesser-known corner of the old town.

Diocletian’s Palace – The Heart of Split

Now to the absolute highlight of the day: Diocletian’s Palace. Built at the turn of the 4th century AD as a retirement home for Emperor Diocletian, this palace is one of the most important Roman structures still standing.
Standing beneath the towering bell tower feels truly humbling. While Croatia has many towers, none compare to this one’s scale and grandeur.

The palace isn’t just a monument – it’s a living city within walls.

Saint Domnius’ Cathedral

Inside the palace grounds is Saint Domnius’ Cathedral, one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use in its original structure.

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (shorter in winter)
• Ticket combo (Cathedral, Crypt, Bell Tower): €6.5
  Walk around the cathedral to explore all the little alleys and admire the views of the bell tower from different angles.

The Vestibule & the Museum

Next, head toward The Vestibule, a massive circular room that once served as the imperial entrance to the palace. Its acoustics are so perfect that local a cappella singers often perform here. Exit the city walls through this path to reach the outer promenade. There’s also a small museum nearby showcasing the palace’s layout and Roman artifacts.

The Promenade (Riva)

Once outside, take a stroll along Riva, Split’s palm-lined promenade. With boats bobbing in the harbor and outdoor cafes lining the walkway, this is the perfect place to rest, have a coffee, and admire the walled city from afar.

Golden Gate & Gregory of Nin Statue

Re-enter the palace through The vestibule till you reach the Golden Gate, the most impressive of its four gates. Just outside, you’ll find the statue of Gregory of Nin, a 10th-century bishop who fought for the use of the Croatian language in church services.
Rubbing his big toe is believed to bring good luck – so don’t miss it!

Art or Dragons?

After some green time in the little park next to Gregory, you can choose your next cultural stop:

• Museum of Fine Art
  • 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (closed Sundays)
  • Entrance: €6.5
• Game of Thrones Museum: €14 per person
  Even if you don’t enter, walk past the entrance to see the giant dragon head – it’s pretty awesome.
  

Food Stop: Focaccina

Hungry? Stop at Sandwich Bar Focaccina.
Great prices, fresh focaccia sandwiches, and several vegetarian options make it an easy favorite.

Hidden Detail: A1 Centar

Before ending your day, look for A1 Centar — a shopping center with a water fountain pouring into a giant coffee cup sculpture. Fun and quirky!

Day 2: Escape to the Heights – Marjan Park

On day two, I lost myself again in the city’s alleys, then had lunch before heading toward Marjan Hill — a peaceful green escape just outside the city walls.

Marjan Park

You can take different trails to climb up to the main viewpoint, and while the hike isn’t steep, there are lots of stairs near the top. Don’t rush — stop often to admire the stunning panoramic views of Split, the harbor, and nearby islands.

At the summit, you’ll find a large white cross and the Croatian flag fluttering proudly, along with views that make the climb worthwhile.

Church of St. Nicholas & Sunset Views

Whether going up or down (I found it on the way down), make a detour to visit the Church of St. Nicholas, which leads to Viewpoint to Marjan.
If you reach it around sunset, prepare for one of the best views in town.

Final Tips & Foodies’ Delight

Before wrapping up, make sure to treat yourself at Luka Ice Cream & Cakes.
They offer a wide range of mini cakes, ice cream, and great coffee — the perfect sweet ending to your Split adventure.

How to Get from Split Airport to the City Center

Split Airport (SPU) is located about 25 km west of the city center, and there are several ways to reach the old town depending on your budget, time, and luggage.

Public Bus – Line 37, 38 or 2

This is the cheapest option, used daily by locals and budget travelers. The stop is located on the main road, about a 5-minute walk from the terminal exit.

• Bus 37 runs every 20 minutes (Mon–Sat) and every 30 minutes (Sundays & holidays), and takes about 40–60 minutes to reach Sukoišan Station, located 10 minutes on foot from the old town.
• Tickets cost around €3 if bought on the bus, or as low as €1.50 via the Promet Split app.
• This is a solid option if you’re traveling light and not in a rush.
• Bus 38 is less frequent, stopping first at Kaštel Stari, and operates only a few times a day. It also reaches Split, but is not recommended unless you’ve checked the current timetable.
• Bus 2 is a newer route that takes you much closer to the center — just 100 meters from Diocletian’s Palace. Same price and similar schedule to Bus 37, so it’s often the better choice if you can catch it.

Airport Shuttle Bus (Pleso Prijevoz)

A direct airport shuttle departs around 30 minutes after every flight. Buses are parked directly outside the terminal (to the right of the exit).

• The ride takes 30 to 40 minutes and drops you off at the main bus station, conveniently located near the ferry port and the historic center.
• Tickets cost €8–10, and can be bought online or on the bus.
• It’s a convenient option if you have luggage, but be aware that the service can be inconsistent.

In our case, the shuttle broke down halfway and we had to take an Uber to avoid missing our flight.

Taxi / Uber / Bolt

Taxis are available right outside the terminal. Alternatively, you can use Uber or Bolt apps, which are widely available in Split.

• The ride takes around 30 minutes depending on traffic.
• Prices vary:
  • Local taxis cost €30–35
  • Uber or Bolt rides can be as low as €27, depending on the time of day and demand.
• This is the fastest and most comfortable option, especially if you’re arriving late or traveling with heavy luggage.

Perfect two days in Split

There’s something truly special about Split. I’ve visited this city three times already, and every single time I fall in love with it all over again. There’s a kind of magic in the way ancient stones coexist with buzzing cafés, and how the sea breeze carries stories from centuries past through every narrow alley.

Split isn’t just a destination — it’s a feeling. The warmth of the sun on the Riva, the sound of footsteps echoing under Roman arches, the taste of fresh focaccia after a long walk, the light hitting the bell tower at golden hour — it all adds up to a place that feels alive in every sense.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Split always has more to give, and that’s what keeps drawing me back. I can’t wait for the next time.

More in Croatia?

If you’re planning to explore more of the Dalmatian coast, check out my post about Hvar Island — Or to Vis Island one of the most beautiful day trips you can take from Split.