Best Day Trips from Split: Islands, Waterfalls, UNESCO Towns & Easy Escapes

Split is one of the best bases in Croatia for day trips: you can reach nearby islands like Brač, Hvar, Šolta and Vis by ferry, visit UNESCO highlights such as Trogir, and plan easy mainland escapes to places like Klis Fortress, Solin and Šibenik. This guide helps you choose the right trip for your time and season, then plan the most practical way to do it (DIY or guided).

Split is also worth enjoying on its own between excursions: a walkable old town, standout attractions, excellent museums, great restaurants, lively evenings, and easy access to beaches. With direct flights from many European cities, it’s one of the easiest places to start a Croatia itinerary.

Planning tip: transport frequency and ticket rules change by season. For national parks and popular boat routes, check official ticketing guidance and schedules before you commit to a specific day.

Quick picks: choose your Split day trip in 30 seconds

• Best easy half-day: Trogir (UNESCO old town) or Klis Fortress + Salona (Solin)
• Best waterfalls day: Krka National Park
• Best “iconic” nature day: Plitvice Lakes National Park (long day)
• Best island by ferry (no car): Hvar Town or Brač
• Best speedboat experience: Blue Cave + 5 Islands
• Best culture day (mainland): Šibenik (Cathedral of St James + fortresses)

If you’re visiting outside peak summer, prioritise close-by towns and culture (Trogir, Klis/Salona, Šibenik). Save longer speedboat routes like the Blue Cave for calmer sea days.

Two of the most popular nature escapes are Krka Waterfalls and Plitvice Lakes National Park, both within day-trip range of Split. If you prefer a guided option, you’ll also find day tours for every budget covering Krka, Plitvice, Trogir, Šibenik and the islands.

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Before you book: what changes by season

Split day trips are easy to plan, but the "best choice" can change depending on month, crowds, and transport frequency. Use these season tips to avoid wasted time and last-minute cancellations.

• Ferries and catamarans (DIY island days): timetables and frequencies change through the year, and operators can update schedules. Before you commit, check the most relevant routes in our Split ferries guide, then confirm your exact departure and return time close to your travel date (especially outside peak summer).
• Speedboat tours (Blue Cave and multi-island routes): these trips are most sensitive to wind and swell. Operators may cancel for safety or adjust the route order and stops if conditions change, so it helps to keep your itinerary flexible.
• National parks (tickets, entrances, and included transfers): Plitvice strongly recommends buying tickets online and validating them at the entrance you selected within the time window you chose. If Plitvice is on your list, see our Plitvice Lakes guide for route planning and timing tips. For Krka, entry planning matters because you select an entry location, and key boat/bus transfers and some visits/services operate seasonally (typically 1 April to 31 October).
• Winter and shoulder season reality: outside summer you’ll often get fewer crowds and better value, but you may see reduced ferry frequency and shorter operating hours for certain attractions. If you’re planning a cold-season itinerary, start with our Croatia in winter guide to set expectations and choose the most reliable day trips.
• Crowds and heat: July and August are the busiest and hottest months. If you’re visiting in peak season, start early, book popular departures in advance, and choose shorter trips (Trogir, Klis/Salona, Šibenik) if you want a more relaxed day.

Quick rule: if the forecast looks windy or the sea is rough, prioritise mainland trips (Trogir, Klis/Salona, Šibenik, Krka) and save the Blue Cave for a calmer day.

Day trips from Split without a car (public transport)

If you’re staying in Split without a car, you still have plenty of easy day trips. The simplest DIY options are places you can reach by local/regional bus or by ferry/catamaran, because you avoid parking, summer traffic, and expensive transfers. For practical planning, start with our Split bus guide and Split ferries guide.

• Check the timetable close to your travel date: local and regional bus schedules can change by season and day type (workday/weekend/holiday).
• Start from the right place: some routes use the main bus station, while others use Promet Split city/regional lines.
• Keep your return realistic: pick an outbound time that gives you a buffer for lunch, a swim, or a longer walk before your last convenient return.

Trogir (UNESCO old town) by bus

Trogir is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Split without a car. A popular option is Promet Split’s bus line 37 (Trogir–Airport–Split), which runs frequent departures through the day and is designed for simple point-to-point travel.

Best for: a relaxed half-day or full-day with sightseeing, waterfront strolling, and an easy meal stop before heading back.

Klis Fortress and Salona (Solin) by local bus

For a history-focused day close to Split, combine Klis Fortress (for panoramic views) with nearby Salona (ancient Roman ruins in Solin). Promet Split’s line 22 connects Split and Klis, making Klis a practical no-car trip when you time it around the timetable.

Best for: a shorter day with big views and easy logistics, especially in shoulder season.

Omiš by bus

Omiš is a quick coastal escape that works well without a car. Promet Split’s line 60 runs between Split and Omiš, which makes it straightforward to plan a beach-and-old-town day and return to Split in the evening.

Best for: a simple swim day, a viewpoint walk, or a relaxed change of scenery when you don’t want a full-day tour.

Šibenik by bus

Šibenik is a strong culture day trip from Split using intercity buses. It’s a good choice when the sea is rough (and speedboat trips are less appealing) or when you want a “city day” with historic streets and viewpoints rather than beaches.

Best for: a full day combining the old town with fortresses and a longer lunch stop.

Island day trips from Split by ferry (DIY)

A DIY island day trip is one of the easiest wins from Split: you get a change of scenery without paying for a tour, and you can shape the day around your pace. Start with our Split ferries guide, then confirm the exact sailing times on the operator’s official site close to your travel date.

• Book smart in summer: popular departures sell out, and the best return sailings fill up first.
• Choose one main base: for a day trip, it’s usually better to focus on one town or beach area than to island-hop.
• Reality check: schedules are seasonal and can change, and operators guarantee accuracy only on their own websites.

Hvar Town (walk + fortress + swim)

Hvar Town is a classic day trip from Split because it’s compact, scenic, and easy to enjoy on foot. Aim for an early sailing, spend the middle of the day exploring the old town and viewpoints, then finish with a swim close to town before returning.

• Best for: first-time island visitors who want a mix of history, views, and swimming
• DIY tip: prioritise the fortress viewpoint early or late in the day to avoid the hottest hours

Brač (Supetar for simplicity or Bol for beaches)

Brač works well as a DIY day because Split has frequent sailings to Supetar, and Supetar is easy to enjoy without complex transfers. If your goal is Zlatni Rat beach, look for seasonal fast-boat/catamaran options to Bol or plan extra time for local transport on the island.

• Supetar day: easiest logistics, good for a relaxed “coffee + swim + waterfront walk” itinerary
• Bol day: best if you want beaches, but plan carefully around limited/seasonal connections

Šolta (closest low-key island day)

Šolta is ideal when you want an island feel with minimal travel time. A common DIY approach is to ferry to Rogač, then spend the day in one nearby area (a harbour village, a beach cove, or a single swim spot) rather than trying to cover the whole island.

• Best for: quieter coves and a simple swim day close to Split
• Timing tip: decide your return sailing early so you don’t end up rushing at the end of the day

Vis (longer ride, calmer vibe)

Vis takes longer to reach, but it’s rewarding if you want a less “busy” island day. Keep the plan simple: pick one town base (Vis or Komiža), add one viewpoint or beach stop, and leave enough buffer to catch your ferry back.

• Best for: travellers who want a slower, more local-feeling island day
• Good to know: Vis is also a common jumping-off point for Blue Cave trips on nearby Biševo

National parks day trips from Split

If you want waterfalls and nature, two national parks dominate Split day-trip planning: Krka National Park (easier and closer) and Plitvice Lakes National Park (more dramatic, but a long day). The best choice depends on how much travel time you’re willing to accept and how early you can start.

• Choose Krka if you want a straightforward day with less time on the road and a classic waterfall-boardwalk experience.
• Choose Plitvice if you want Croatia’s most iconic lakes-and-waterfalls scenery and you’re happy with an early departure and late return.

Krka National Park (best waterfalls day from Split)

Krka is the most practical national-park day trip from Split. Most visitors focus on Skradinski Buk, the park’s signature waterfall area with wooden walkways and viewpoints.

Krka Waterfalls is located less than an hour's drive from Split, making it an ideal day trip destination. Although not as popular as Plitvice Lakes, Krka Waterfalls are equally stunning.

The park boasts numerous hiking trails that pass by lakes, waterfalls, and caves. The best way to explore the park is by taking a boat from Skradin, although driving to the park is also an option for those short on time.

Visitors should not miss the park's main attractions, including the 22-meter-high Roski slap waterfall, the longest travertine barrier of Krka River at Skradinski buk, and the tiny island of Visovac. Additionally, the park features several caves, the remains of medieval fortresses, and beautifully restored watermills.

If you rent a car you can easily visit the park on your own from Split. Otherwise consider joining a organised tour that can take you there.

For those who want to see all the main sights, it's recommended to arrive early in the morning and spend the entire day in the park. But if time is limited, visitors can focus on one or two attractions. The Skradinski buk is a short 10-minute walk from the parking area, so it's an ideal choice for those who have limited time.

• Plan your entry: Krka ticketing is organised by entry location. Two common choices for day-trippers are Skradin (scenic river approach) and Lozovac (park-and-shuttle style access).
• Know what’s included: your entrance ticket typically includes the Skradin boat transfer to Skradinski Buk and the Lozovac shuttle bus when they operate (normally 1 April to 31 October).
• Timing tip: arrive early in peak summer to avoid the busiest hours on the main boardwalk loop.

Good for: travellers who want waterfalls with simpler logistics and more time actually inside the park.

Plitvice Lakes National Park (best dramatic scenery, but a long day)

Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s most famous national park and a spectacular day out from Split if you plan carefully. Expect a long travel day, so the experience is best with an early start and a realistic route. The park's stunning natural beauty is sure to take your breath away, with 16 interconnected lakes and countless waterfalls, cascades, dams, bridges, and boardwalks.

Don't let the fact that the drive to the park takes around three hours each way discourage you. The park's beauty is worth every minute of the drive, and we recommend setting aside at least four hours to truly enjoy the experience. If you have the time, we suggest allocating six hours to explore the park, take photos, and admire the surroundings.

• Book smart: Plitvice officially recommends buying tickets online. You must validate your ticket at the entrance you selected and enter within the time period you chose when purchasing.
• Choose a realistic route: for a day trip, focus on one main loop that fits your pace rather than trying to “see everything.”
• Beat the crowds: an early entry time gives you the best chance of quieter trails and smoother boat/train connections inside the park.

Good for: travellers who want the most iconic nature scenery and don’t mind spending a significant part of the day in transit.

Best boat tours from Split (see more in one day)

If you want to pack multiple islands and swim stops into one day, a boat tour is often the simplest option from Split. These tours are especially useful if you don’t want to coordinate separate ferries, local buses, and taxi transfers on islands.

Excursions and day trips to nearby islands are some of the most popular day trips from Split. The recommended islands to visit include Brač, Hvar, Šolta, Drenik Veli, and Vis. While taking a ferry is a cheap option, it may not allow for much exploration if you have limited time.

• Reality check: itineraries can change due to sea conditions and port restrictions. Keep your day flexible and avoid booking an immovable dinner reservation on the same evening.
• What’s often extra: the Blue Cave entry ticket is frequently charged separately from the tour price, and it can be seasonally priced, so always confirm inclusions before booking.
• What to pack: swim gear, a towel, sun protection, a light layer for the speedboat ride, water, and cash for small extras.

Blue Cave + 5 Islands speedboat tour

This is the signature “big day out” from Split: a fast boat, several island stops, and the famous Blue Cave experience on Biševo. It’s the best choice when you want a once-in-a-trip highlight and don’t mind a long day on the water.

• Best for: travellers who want a bucket-list experience and are comfortable with a faster pace
• Not ideal for: anyone prone to seasickness or travellers who prefer slow travel and long beach time in one place

Good to know: Blue Cave visits are managed for safety and conservation and are done with the concession-holder’s small boats rather than letting visitors enter independently. If the sea is rough, the cave may be closed and tours may adjust the route or timing.

Typical structure (varies by operator): a morning departure from Split, Blue Cave entry on Biševo, a stop on Vis (often Komiža), a scenic bay stop such as Stiniva, a swim stop at a lagoon-like bay around Budikovac, and time in/near Hvar Town or the Pakleni Islands before returning.

Blue Lagoon and nearby islands (Drvenik Veli area)

If you want a shorter, simpler boat day focused on swimming and clear water, the Blue Lagoon is the most popular choice from the Split–Trogir area. It’s usually closer than the Blue Cave route, which means less time in transit and more time in the sea.

• Best for: a relaxed swim-and-snorkel day with minimal logistics
• Good option when: you want a boat experience but prefer a less intense, less “rushed” itinerary than the Blue Cave circuit

The Blue Lagoon is known for turquoise water in a sheltered bay near Drvenik Veli, with a few small islets creating a lagoon effect. Many tours combine it with one additional stop such as a village on Šolta (often Maslinica) or a quick old-town walk in Trogir, depending on departure point and tour length.

Opting for a sailing trip is also a great choice to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and explore hidden gems on the islands.

Feeling Blue...Sail Away From the Crowds

A sailing day trip from Split is the relaxed, "do it like locals do" alternative to fast speedboat circuits: you leave from Split’s marina area, spend the day under sail (with a skipper), and anchor in a sheltered bay for swimming and lunch before returning in the late afternoon. The most common routes keep distances short and satisfying, typically aiming for nearby islands like Brač or Šolta so you get real sailing time plus plenty of water time without feeling rushed.

For the best experience, plan around wind and timing rather than trying to cram in too many stops. In summer, the Maestral sea breeze often builds from late morning into the afternoon, which can make for excellent sailing but also choppier crossings later in the day; many skippers structure the day so you sail when conditions are favorable and swim or lunch at anchor when the breeze peaks. Also, wind isn’t guaranteed every day, if it’s light, the boat may use the engine, so think of it as a "sailing-first, swim-and-chill" day where the exact route is flexible based on the forecast.

Adventure day trips near Split

If you want an active day trip, the Cetina River canyon near Omiš is Split’s main adventure hub. Most experiences are guided, include safety equipment, and are designed to fit into a half-day or full-day plan depending on transfers and your chosen activity.

• Best base: Omiš and the Cetina Canyon area
• Best season: late spring to early autumn for water-based activities
• Good to know: adventure trips can fill up in July and August, so booking ahead is smart

Cetina River rafting (beginner-friendly classic)

Rafting on the Cetina River is the easiest “first adventure” from Split. Trips are typically half-day experiences with transport to the start point, a scenic river section, and a finish near Omiš.

Rafting on the Cetina River is one of the best day trips from Split. The Cetina rafting adventure combines white water rafting with a bit of caving, canyoning, and cliff jumping and is suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

The Cetina River, located in the small coastal town of Omiš, just 20 km south of Split, offers a 1 km long route with grade 3 rapids, hidden caves to explore, pristine small waterfalls to swim under, and the famous Cetina canyon for cliff jumping.

• Best for: families and first-timers who want a fun activity without intense technical skills
• Expect: a mix of calm stretches and small rapids, plus time for breaks and photos
• Bring: swimwear, a towel, water, and dry clothes for after the trip

Cetina canyoning (more action, more water)

Canyoning is a step up from rafting and usually includes swimming, scrambling over rocks, and moving through narrow canyon sections with guides. Choose this if you want a more immersive canyon experience and you are comfortable being active in the water.

• Best for: confident swimmers and travellers who want a more physical day
• Expect: wet conditions, water shoes or special footwear, and a faster-paced experience
• Tip: confirm age limits, swimming requirements, and what’s included (wetsuit, helmet, shoes, transfers) before booking

Zipline over the Cetina Canyon (fast thrills, big views)

The Cetina Canyon zipline is one of the most popular quick-adventure options near Omiš. It’s a guided circuit of multiple lines with viewpoints over the canyon, usually with short walks between platforms.

Located just 3km from Omiš, this adrenalin-infused zip-line polygon is the perfect adventure for thrill-seekers. With 8 steel cables and a total length of 2,100m, including the longest cable at 700m and 150m above ground level, participants sit in a belt and descend down the canyon accompanied by two guides.

The entire polygon takes 2.5 hours to cross with a group of 10 persons. Transportation is provided to the starting point, including training and equipment. There are two short cables for demonstration purposes and a short stroll to the first cable with stunning scenery.

Zip-line tours are available all day throughout the summer season and by appointment during the rest of the year. An unforgettable 3 hours of fun surrounded by stunning nature. Make a reservation at least 48 hours in advance.

• Best for: travellers who want adrenaline and views without spending the whole day on a tour
• Expect: a guided session with basic training and several crossings, plus short hikes between lines
• Tip: wear closed-toe shoes and avoid loose items you could drop

Quad ride and off-road experiences (easy countryside adventure)

If you prefer land-based activities, quad rides and off-road excursions can be a fun way to see the hinterland beyond Split’s coast. These tours are usually more about scenery and a different pace than pure adrenaline.

• Best for: groups looking for something different from beaches and cities
• Tip: check whether you need a driving licence and what level of experience is expected

Mosor Mountain hiking (views above Split)

Mosor is one of the closest mountain escapes from Split and a great choice on days when you want cooler air and wide views. Routes vary from shorter walks to demanding full-day hikes, so choose a trail that matches your fitness and daylight.

• Best for: travellers who want a nature break without a full-day transfer
• Bring: proper footwear, water, a light layer, and a headlamp if you might finish late
• Tip: start early in summer and avoid hiking in the hottest midday hours

Day Trip from Split to Dubrovnik

If you're interested in visiting Dubrovnik but don't plan on spending the night a full-day trip from Split is an option to consider. The journey from Split to Dubrovnik covers approximately 230 km and takes around three hours by car.

You have the option of renting a car and travelling independently or booking a group tour. The first part of the route to Dubrovnik is following the A1 multi-lane motorway from Split to Ploče. The second part follows along the D8 coastal road from Ploče to Dubrovnik.

The coastal road is renowned for its stunning views and is considered one of Croatia's most scenic routes. If you're driving and have extra time, consider making a detour to the village of Ston to see the famous Walls and sample some of the area's delicious oysters.

Practical planning checklist (so the day runs smoothly)

Most Split day trips are easy if you plan around one thing: transport. Use this checklist to avoid missed sailings, peak-hour crowds, and last-minute ticket issues.

• Pick the right type of day trip: if the sea is windy, choose mainland trips (Trogir, Klis/Salona, Šibenik, Krka) and save speedboat routes for calmer days.
• Confirm transport close to your travel date: ferry and catamaran timetables change seasonally, and operators note schedules are subject to change and guaranteed only on their official websites.
• Use local guides for planning: start with our Split ferries guide and Split bus guide to choose the most realistic route.
• Book the “limited capacity” items early in summer: popular ferry/catamaran sailings and top boat tours can sell out, especially for the best return times.
• National parks: for Plitvice, it’s highly recommended to buy tickets online and you must validate them at the entrance you selected within the time period you chose.
• Plitvice route planning: if you are doing Plitvice as a day trip, plan a realistic loop before you go using our Plitvice Lakes guide.
• Krka entrance strategy: choose the entry location that matches your transport plan (for example, Skradin versus Lozovac) and remember key park transfers operate seasonally.
• Pack for your trip type: swimwear and towel for islands, proper footwear for parks and fortresses, sun protection in summer, and water year-round.
• Border trips: if you plan a day trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina (Mostar), bring your passport or national ID and check entry rules for your nationality before departure.
• Winter and shoulder season: you can get fewer crowds but reduced transport frequency and shorter opening hours, so read our Croatia in winter guide and keep your plan flexible.

Schengen note: within the Schengen Area you don’t normally need to show a passport or ID at internal borders, but countries can temporarily reintroduce controls, so carrying ID is still wise.

Related Split travel guides

If you’re planning multiple outings, these Split guides help you sort transport, timings, and practical details before you go.

• Split Ferry Port - Where ferries and catamarans depart, how early to arrive, and what to expect on busy summer days.
• Ferries from Split - Route overview and links to sailing information for the most common island day trips.
• Buses in Split - How to use local and intercity buses for easy no-car day trips.
• Split Main Bus Station - Where to go, what facilities are available, and how to plan departures.
• Parking in Split - Practical parking options if you’re driving and want to avoid old-town stress.
• Split Airport - Transfers and planning if you’re arriving by air and heading straight into day trips.

New to the city? See our Split guides for attractions, museums, restaurants, and beaches.

FAQ: Day trips from Split

What are the easiest day trips from Split without a car?

The easiest no-car day trips are places you can reach by regular bus or ferry: Trogir, Klis Fortress and Salona (Solin), Omiš, and Šibenik are strong mainland picks, while Hvar, Brač and Šolta are popular DIY island days. For planning, use our Split bus guide and Split ferries guide, then confirm your exact departure and return times close to your travel date.

Is Krka or Plitvice better for a day trip from Split?

Choose Krka if you want a simpler day with less travel time and a classic waterfall-boardwalk experience. Choose Plitvice if you want the most iconic lakes-and-waterfalls scenery and you’re happy with a long day and an early start. If you’re leaning toward Plitvice, our Plitvice Lakes guide helps you pick a realistic route for a one-day visit.

Which island is best for a day trip from Split: Hvar, Brač, Šolta, or Vis?

For most travellers, Hvar Town is the best all-rounder (walkable sights, viewpoints, swim time). Brač is easiest if you base in Supetar, while Bol and Zlatni Rat work best if you plan transfers carefully. Šolta is the closest “quiet swim day” option. Vis is the longest ride but often feels calmer and less rushed if you keep the plan simple.

Is the Blue Cave worth it on a day trip from Split?

If you want a bucket-list experience and don’t mind a fast-paced day on the water, the Blue Cave can be worth it. The main trade-off is comfort and flexibility: the trip depends on sea conditions, the cave can close in rough weather, and the day includes a lot of boat time. If you prefer a slower swim-focused day, the Blue Lagoon style tours are usually a better fit.

What are the best day trips from Split in spring and autumn?

Spring and autumn are ideal for culture and nature with fewer crowds: Trogir, Klis and Salona, Šibenik, and Krka are excellent choices, and island days can be great when ferry schedules suit your timing. Pack a light layer and plan an earlier start for parks so you get the best daylight.

What are the best day trips from Split in winter?

In winter, prioritise mainland trips that don’t depend on sea conditions or reduced seasonal services: Trogir, Klis and Salona, and Šibenik are usually the most reliable. Ferry frequency is often lower, and some attractions operate shorter hours, so keep plans flexible and read our Croatia in winter guide before building a day-by-day itinerary.

Can you do Dubrovnik as a day trip from Split?

It’s possible but very long and usually not the best use of a day. You’ll spend several hours each way in transit, which leaves limited time in Dubrovnik once you arrive. If Dubrovnik is a priority, an overnight stay (or at least a very early departure with a late return) is a better plan.

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