21 Closest & Best Day Trips From Split (Updated 2024)

Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is a standout star in any Croatia itinerary, thanks to its vibrant urban life and historical gems like Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

But once you’ve had your fill of Split, including the stunning old town and the bustling port, consider the array of day trips that are just a hop, skip, and a jump away.

From Split, you can easily get back to Split after a fun day exploring the national parks in Croatia or lounging on the best beaches west of Split.

Here are several ideas for day trips from Split you can take.

For those looking to dive deeper into the Adriatic’s offerings, day tours from Split can whisk you off to the scenic Pakleni Islands or the famed Zlatni Rat from Split. With ferries running between Split and these nearby havens, an unforgettable day trip is within easy reach.

If you’re aiming for a wonderful day trip a bit closer, Split and Trogir offer a dual dose of Dalmatian culture and history, easily accessible by bus from Split.

Organized trips are the best way to ensure you see the highlights without the hassle, especially if you’re short on time in Split. Whether you drive inland from Split for an easy day trip or spend a day cruising the coast from Split, these favorite day trips from Split are guaranteed to enrich your Croatia and beyond experience.

1. Salona, Croatia – Roman Site

In Roman times, Salona was the capital of Dalmatia. Nowadays, it’s one of the best places to visit from Split. Salona is home to an extraordinary collection of ruins, including those of an 18,000-seat amphitheater. Other highlights are a covered aqueduct, a basilica cemetery, and the Tusculum Museum.

Salona lies merely six miles from Split, making it one of the best excursions from Split for history buffs.

2. Trogir From Split For The Day

One of the many fabulous old towns on the Croatian coast, Trogir is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Trogir’s historic center, filled with palaces, churches, and other architectural highlights, is surrounded by a magnificent fortified wall.

Its sheer beauty and cultural importance are why it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Trogir lies within easy driving distance of Split—it could be considered Split’s little brother. Thanks to its vibrant history, stunning architecture, and super-close location to Split, it is easily one of the best day trips from Split.

Local Tip:  Trogir is a popular destination, parking is super limited, and the surrounding roads are often congested. Consider visiting the town on a guided tour from Split.

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3. Krka National Park From Split

One of the largest parks in Croatia, Krka National Park, lies about an hour’s drive north of Split, making it an easy destination for a one-day trip from Split.

A couple of rivers intersect the area, flowing down gorges and creating several impressive waterfalls. The park’s star attraction is Skradinski Buk, a huge waterfall made up of various cascades underneath which you can swim.

Krka National Park offers everything from leisurely boardwalk strolls to backcountry adventures. Active travelers will want to explore the park’s many hiking trails.

To get there, take a private transfer, which is very affordable and gets you there conveniently and quickly, or check out these other transportation options from Split to Krka.

4. Šolta Island – One Of The Top Day Trips From Split

One of the less-visited islands off the coast of Dalmatia, Šolta, is where you should go if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Split. Less developed than other islands in the region, this one is somewhat off the beaten path.

Hiking trails run along the coast and across the island’s heartland, while beautifully empty beaches tempt visitors to go for a swim.

There is some human history on Šolta, though. Consider, for example, visiting the prehistoric Gradac Fortress and some of the dozen centuries-old churches on the island.

5. Split To Hvar Town

The Island of Hvar is a popular day trip destination, easily accessible by a boat tour or a ferry from Split. lies a one-hour ferry ride from Split, a pleasant and exceptionally scenic journey.

Although there’s plenty to do on the island, on your day tour, you should focus on Hvar Town if you’re going on a one-day trip to Hvar from Split.

This incredibly photogenic town is home to one of the largest town squares in Croatia, dating from the 13th century. Stroll the quaint streets, enjoy a walk along the waterfront, sample local cuisine, and visit the beautiful Cathedral of St. Stephen.

6. Brač Island From Split

Another stunning Dalmatiann Coast island, Brac, lies to the south of Split and can also be reached by a scenic ferry ride. The island features beautiful landscapes and historic villages, but its main attraction is near Bol’s town.

You’ll find one of the most glorious beaches in Croatia, perhaps even in Europe. Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn, is a narrow triangular beach that juts out into the Adriatic Sea and is backed by a pine forest. This beach alone makes Brač worth the journey from Split.

7. Šibenik – One Of The Most Popular

Almost 1,000 years old, this city is built entirely with stone. Its streets are cobbled, and its buildings feature striking stone masonry that gives it an old-world charm that’s perfect for a day tour.

 There are stone fortresses and many sculptures. Less visited than other Dalmatian cities such as Zadar, Dubrovnik, and, of course, Split, Šibenik is a superb destination trip destination from Split as well.

Its centerpiece is the 15th-century St. James Cathedral, one of Europe’s largest stone structures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During your visit, take your time wandering Šibenik’s charming streets and sipping coffee on an outdoor patio during your day trip. The main street in the old city center is King Tomislav Street, lined with boutiques, cafés, and restaurants.

8. Day Trip To Plitvice Lakes National Park

You can easily hop on a bus and head to Plitvice Lakes from Split to see a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also one of Croatia’s greatest natural highlights.

Situated north of and inland from Split, this park makes for one of those genuinely must-see day trips from Split. Encompassing vast forests and rolling hills, home to wolves, bears, and other wildlife, the park is most famous for its terraced lakes and numerous gorgeous waterfalls.

Boardwalks loop around and even over the lakes and waterfalls, allowing you to enjoy this unique landscape in-depth and at your own pace. On day trips from Split to Plitvice Lakes, we recommend getting as early in the morning as possible—the park gets really busy around midday. The most comfortable and convenient way to get to Plitvice Lakes is by private transfer.

9. Korčula Island Boat Trips – The Little Dubrovnik

Heading out from Split to Korčula Island feels like stepping straight into a vibrant postcard of Croatia. Known for its dense forests and historic towns, Korčula is a gem that offers more than just stunning landscapes.

The old town, with its impressive stone architecture and winding streets, claims fame as the birthplace of Marco Polo. While you’re there, don’t just wander around; dive into some local wine tasting. The island’s white wines, like Pošip and Grk, are a must-try.

Getting there is a bit of an adventure itself, with a ferry ride that showcases the dazzling Adriatic Sea. Make sure to plan your ferry times ahead to maximize your day on this enchanting island.

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10. Blue Cave On Biševo Island – Lots Of Split Boat Trips Go Here!

For an experience that feels like a magic trick nature pulls off every day, the Blue Cave on Biševo Island is a must-day trip to take.

This natural marvel is famous for the mesmerizing blue light that bathes the cave’s interior, creating a surreal atmosphere when the sun hits the water at just the right angle. Tours to the Blue Cave usually include a boat ride that adds to the adventure, along with stops at other breathtaking spots perfect for swimming or snorkeling.

The best time to visit is in the morning when the effect is most pronounced. Just a heads up, these tours are super popular, so booking in advance is wise to secure your spot. Plus, the boat journey offers some fantastic views of the Croatian coastline that you won’t want to miss.

11. Mostar From Split Day Trip

A day trip from Split to Mostar will transport you into a world where East meets West in the heart of the Balkans. Mostar, in neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina, is iconic for its Stari Most (Old Bridge), a stunning example of Islamic architecture in the Balkans that arches gracefully over the Neretva River. But there’s more to the city than just the bridge.

Wander the cobbled streets, check out the bustling bazaars, and yes, you have to try the local cuisine. Ćevapi (grilled meat dish) and burek (meat or cheese-filled pastry) come highly recommended.

The journey to Mostar itself is a scenic route, with views that span rivers, mountains, and medieval fortresses. Remember to bring your passport, as you’ll be crossing an international border.

There are many organized tours from Split, which make it easy for you to get there and back.