The Split region is the heart of Central Dalmatia, centred on the Roman city of Split and stretching along a coastline of islands, beaches and historic towns. Here you can wander UNESCO-listed palace streets in the morning and be swimming off an island beach by the afternoon.
With over a thousand islands scattered along the Croatian coast, turquoise bays framed by the Dinaric Alps and easy access via Split’s ferry port and Split Airport, this is where many of my Croatia trips begin, and somehow, it’s always the place where I end up staying longer than I planned.
Where is the Split Region in Croatia?
Geographically, the Split region sits roughly halfway down Croatia’s Adriatic coast. It links the Zadar region to the north with the Dubrovnik region to the south, and inland it reaches towards the Cetina river canyon and the karst landscapes around Imotski.
The core of the region is the city of Split, built inside the Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian and facing the islands of Brač, Hvar and Šolta. South-east along the coast you reach the Makarska Riviera under Biokovo mountain, while day trips inland lead to the Cetina canyon, Imotski’s blue and red lakes and other inland villages.
Split Region at a Glance
- Best base: Split for first-timers and good transport; Makarska or an island like Brač or Hvar if you prefer beaches.
- Trip length: 3-4 days for a taster (city + one day trip); 7+ days to combine Split, islands and inland adventures.
- Top highlights: Diocletian’s Palace, island-hopping to Brač and Hvar, the Cetina river canyon, Biokovo mountain and Imotski’s blue and red lakes.
- Getting in: Fly into Split Airport, then continue by ferry, bus or car from the city’s ferry port and main bus station.
- Best season: Late May-June and September for warm sea and fewer crowds; July-August for peak beach weather and festivals.
- Who it suits: Couples, families, hikers, sailors, island-hoppers and road-trippers planning a wider Croatia itinerary.
UNESCO & key facts about the Split Region
The Split region is part of Split-Dalmatia County, home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites:
- Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian - the Roman palace and old town of Split, centred on Diocletian's Palace.
- Historic City of Trogir - a tiny island town often described as an open-air museum, easy to visit on a day trip from Split.
Best places to visit in Split Region
- Split - Lively coastal city built inside a Roman palace, with markets, museums and great bars and restaurants. Start with our Split Travel Guide.
- Trogir - UNESCO-listed stone town on a tiny island, perfect for an evening stroll, drinks on the waterfront and boat trips along the coast.
- Makarska Riviera - A string of pebble beaches backed by Biokovo mountain, ideal for classic summer holidays and families.
- Island of Brač - Home to Zlatni Rat beach and relaxed villages. You can reach it from Split by car ferry; see ferries to and from Split for current routes.
- Island of Hvar - Chic harbour town, lavender fields and Pakleni islands, connected to Split by frequent fast catamarans.
- Islands of Šolta & Vis - Quieter islands with pretty bays, perfect for slower days, seafood lunches and swimming in clear coves.
- Cetina river canyon & Omiš - Adventure hub for rafting, canyoning and zip-lining with dramatic views; more ideas in Best day trips from Split.
- Imotski lakes - Striking blue and red sinkhole lakes inland from Makarska, popular with hikers and photographers.
Top 5 things to do in Split region
- Explore Diocletian’s Palace - Lose yourself in the maze of Roman streets, tiny squares and stone houses inside Diocletian’s Palace, the historic heart of Split.
- Island-hop to Hvar or Brač - Take a fast catamaran or car ferry from Split to nearby islands for beaches, wine and slow Mediterranean evenings. Check routes and tips in Ferry connections from and to Split.
- Adventure in the Cetina canyon - Join rafting, canyoning or zip-line tours above the emerald Cetina river near Omiš for a cooler break from the beach and impressive views back to the Adriatic. See more ideas under Best day trips from Split.
- Stroll Trogir’s old town - Wander Trogir’s narrow lanes and waterfront promenade, then return to Split by evening for dinner on the Riva.
- Drive or tour Biokovo mountain - Head up into Biokovo Nature Park above the Makarska Riviera for panoramic sea views and hiking trails, or join an organised tour that includes the glass Skywalk viewpoint.
If you have time, combine one or two of these with a relaxed beach afternoon at Kašjuni or Firule beach to see how locals unwind by the sea.
One of my personal favorite day trips was taking a late-afternoon ferry from Split to Brač for a swim near Zlatni Rat and a simple dinner in Bol, and watching the islands turn pink on the way back to Split made the whole day feel quietly perfect.
Highlights of Split Region
The biggest highlight of the region is Diocletian’s Palace in Split, a UNESCO-listed maze of stone streets, squares and courtyards that doubles as the city’s old town. Within a short walk you can reach the Riva promenade, local markets and city beaches like Bačvice beach.
Nature is just as impressive. Hike or cycle on Marjan hill, explore the Cetina river canyon near Omiš, or follow the coast south along the Makarska Riviera, where Biokovo mountain rises almost straight out of the sea.
Out on the water, island-hopping is the region’s signature experience. Use Split as your hub for ferries and catamarans to Brač, Hvar, Šolta, Vis and further south to Korčula and Mljet - our ferry guide for Split explains how to choose and book the right route for your trip.
Where to stay in the Split Region
Choosing the right base in the Split region depends on how long you have and what kind of trip you want - city break, classic beach holiday, island escape or an active mix of all three.
Split city - best for first-timers and without a car
If it's your first visit to Central Dalmatia, staying in Split makes everything easy: you're within walking distance of Diocletian's Palace, the Riva promenade, city beaches and the ferry, bus and train stations. It's ideal if you don't plan to rent a car and want to combine sightseeing with island day trips. For hand-picked options, see best hotels in Split.
Makarska Riviera - beach holiday base
The Makarska Riviera, south of Split, is a good choice if you want long pebble beaches, seafront promenades and a more traditional "fly and flop" holiday. Towns like Makarska, Brela and Tučepi sit under Biokovo mountain, so you can mix beach time with walks or trips into the Biokovo Nature Park, then use buses or organised excursions for day trips to Split or nearby islands.
Islands (Brač, Hvar, Šolta, Vis) - slower stays and sea views
For slower days and evenings by the sea, consider staying on one of the nearby islands:
- Brač - great for families and beach lovers, especially around Bol and Zlatni Rat, connected to Split by regular car ferries (see ferries to and from Split).
- Hvar - livelier in high season, with Hvar Town known for nightlife and the Pakleni islands, and Stari Grad or Jelsa offering a quieter feel.
- Šolta & Vis - smaller and more laid-back, with pretty bays and villages, good if you prefer calm evenings and long swims to busy nightlife.
Trogir & the Split suburbs - handy for the airport
If you have a very early flight or just a short stay, basing yourself in or around Trogir, Kaštela or other coastal suburbs between Split and the airport can make arrival and departure days easier. You still have sea views and access to local beaches, with simple bus connections into Split for sightseeing.
What to do in the Split Region (by interest)
Culture & history
Start with the old town of Split, built inside Diocletian's Palace, then add a visit to Trogir, whose compact historic centre is also UNESCO-listed. If you have more time, combine these with the Stari Grad Plain on Hvar island, where the agricultural landscape still follows a 2,400-year-old Greek plan.
Beaches & relaxed days by the sea
The region has options ranging from sandy city beaches to quiet coves:
- Stay close to the centre at Bačvice beach or Firule, both shallow and popular with families.
- Head to Kašjuni beach under Marjan hill for a more scenic pebble bay.
- Follow the coast down the Makarska Riviera for classic long beaches backed by Biokovo mountain, or use island ferries for quieter beaches on Brač, Hvar, Šolta or Vis.
For an overview of city beaches and green spaces, see Parks and beaches in Split.
Adventure & outdoors
If you like active holidays, the Split region is an easy base for rafting, canyoning, zip-lining and hiking. Many of these trips are listed under best day trips from Split, including rafting in the Cetina river canyon near Omiš and tours to the Biokovo Skywalk viewpoint above the Makarska Riviera. Closer to town, Marjan hill offers walking and cycling trails with views over Split and the surrounding islands.
Sailing, boating & island-hopping
With dozens of islands and islets nearby, the Split region is a major sailing and island-hopping hub. You can:
- Use regular ferries and catamarans from the Split ferry port for DIY island-hopping.
- Join small-group boat tours to swim in bays, visit the Blue Lagoon or combine several islands in one day.
- Arrange a longer sailing trip along the Dalmatian coast - start with Sailing in Croatia and our Rent a boat in Croatia guide.
Food & wine
Dalmatian food leans heavily on fresh fish, olive oil, herbs and simple grilled dishes. In and around Split you'll find classic dishes like pašticada (slow-cooked beef), peka (meat or octopus baked under a metal lid) and local wines from Brač, Hvar and the hinterland. For a wider look at Croatian flavours and recipes, explore Delicious Croatia.
Sample Split Region itineraries
These short itineraries show how you might combine Split, the islands, the Makarska Riviera and inland highlights. Use them as a starting point and adjust for your own pace, interests and flight times.
3 days in the Split Region
- Day 1 - Split old town & Marjan hill
Arrive in Split and explore Diocletian's Palace, the cathedral and the Riva promenade. In the afternoon, walk or take a bus towards Marjan hill for views over the city and nearby islands, or finish the day with a swim at Bačvice beach or Kašjuni. - Day 2 - Trogir and coastal views
Take a bus or tour to Trogir, the UNESCO-listed stone town west of Split, and wander its narrow lanes and seafront. Return to Split for dinner on the Riva or in the palace cellars. Many organised excursions and transport options are listed under best day trips from Split. - Day 3 - Island day trip
Use ferries or a small-group tour for a day on Brač, Hvar or Šolta. A simple option is the car ferry to Brač for a few hours around Bol and Zlatni Rat, or a fast catamaran to Hvar Town for sightseeing and a swim. Check routes in our ferries from Split guide.
7 days in the Split Region
- Days 1-2 - Split city
Use two full days to settle into Split: explore Diocletian's Palace and museums, walk Marjan hill, visit a city beach and sample local food and wine in the old town. - Day 3 - Trogir & Čiovo
Take a day trip to Trogir for its historic centre and, if the weather is good, nearby beaches on Čiovo island. This day also works well at the start or end of the trip if you're flying via Split Airport. - Days 4-5 - Island stay (Brač, Hvar or Vis)
Move across to an island for two nights - Brač for family-friendly beaches, Hvar for nightlife and the Pakleni islands, or Vis for a quieter, more remote feel. Use local buses, scooters or boat trips to explore. - Day 6 - Makarska Riviera & Biokovo
Travel down the coast to the Makarska Riviera for a day of swimming and a taste of the classic Croatian seaside. If you like mountain views, add a tour into Biokovo Nature Park or the Skywalk viewpoint above the coast. - Day 7 - Inland Cetina canyon or Imotski lakes
Spend your final day on an inland excursion: rafting, canyoning or zip-lining in the Cetina canyon near Omiš, or a trip to the blue and red lakes around Imotski. You'll find several options described in best day trips from Split.
When to visit Split Region
The main holiday season in the Split region runs from late April to mid-October, with July and August as peak months. In high summer you get the warmest sea temperatures, long beach days and the fullest ferry and catamaran schedule but also the biggest crowds and highest prices, especially on hotspots like Zlatni Rat or Hvar Town.
For many visitors, the sweet spot is late May-June and September. Sea temperatures are usually warm enough for swimming, most beaches around Split and along the Makarska Riviera are open for business, but you’ll find fewer cruise groups and tour buses. It’s also a great time for hiking on Marjan hill or joining Cetina canyon and Biokovo day trips. If you’re travelling in peak summer or with young children, it’s also worth checking our Stay healthy in Croatia guide for tips on sun, heat and drinking water.
Winter in Split is mild compared to inland Croatia. While island ferries run on reduced schedules and many beach bars close, Split itself keeps a more local rhythm with cafés, markets and Christmas events. If you’re curious about off-season travel, see Visit Croatia in winter for weather, packing tips and what actually stays open.
How to get to Split Region
Split is the main gateway to the region, with an airport, ferry port, bus and train station all close together near the old town. Once you arrive in Split, it’s easy to continue by ferry to the islands, by bus along the coast or by car into the hinterland. For more practical details on routes and local transport, see Split Travel Information.
By plane (Split Airport)
The main airport for the region is Split Airport (SPU), about 25 km north-west of the city. Shuttle buses run between the airport and the main bus station by the ferry port, and there are local buses and taxis if you are heading to resorts along the coast. For flight options and more details, see Flights to Split - travel information.
By ferry & catamaran
Split is the largest passenger seaport in Croatia, with ferries and fast catamarans linking the mainland to Brač, Hvar, Šolta, Vis, Korčula, Lastovo and other islands, plus international routes to Ancona and Bari in Italy. Start with Split Ferry Port - ferry lines and timetables for an overview of the port and connections.
If you’re planning island-hopping or travelling in July and August, it’s worth checking timetables and booking in advance. The Ferries to and from Split explains how to compare routes, book tickets online and what to expect at the port.
By bus & train
Split is a major hub for intercity buses along the coast and to Zagreb, Mostar and other inland cities. Everything you need to know - timetables, ticket tips and where buses arrive - is in Split By Bus.
Almost all long-distance buses arrive at the Split main bus station, right next to the ferry port and train station, so changing from bus to ferry or catamaran is straightforward. There is also a rail connection with Zagreb and inland Croatia - see Split By Train if you prefer travelling by rail.
By car & parking
Driving to the Split region is easy thanks to the A1 motorway and coastal road. The guide Travelling to Split and getting around by car explains routes from Zagreb, Rijeka and northern Italy, current tolls and driving tips, plus ideas for places to stop along the way.
Parking near the center and ferry port can be challenging in high season, especially if you’re leaving the car while you visit the islands. Before you arrive, read Parking in Split for zones, prices and suggested car parks within walking distance of the harbor.
Split Region FAQs
Is the Split region worth visiting?
Yes. The Split region combines a historic city center, island getaways, family-friendly beaches and inland adventures like the Cetina canyon, so it works both as a standalone holiday and as a base for exploring wider Croatia.
How many days do you need in the Split region?
With 3-4 days you can see Split, take one island or canyon day trip and enjoy the beach. A week or more lets you combine several islands, the Makarska Riviera and inland villages at an easier pace.
Where is the best base in the Split region - Split, Makarska or an island?
First-timers usually prefer Split for easy transport and nightlife. Makarska suits classic beach holidays, while islands like Brač or Hvar are ideal if you want slower days and evenings by the sea.
Can you visit the islands on day trips from Split?
Yes. Fast catamarans and organised boat tours make it easy to visit Brač, Hvar, Šolta or even Vis as day trips; in peak season it’s smart to book ferries and tours in advance.
When is the best time to visit the Split region for swimming?
Sea temperatures are usually warm enough for comfortable swimming from late May to early October, with July and August offering the warmest water and most reliable sunshine.
Is the Split region good for families?
Yes. Many beaches are shallow and sheltered, activities range from easy island boat trips to zip-lining, and coastal towns like Split and Makarska have plenty of apartment rentals and family-friendly restaurants.