13 Best Day Trips from Split, Croatia (Islands, Waterfalls, Historic Towns, More!)

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The best day trips from Split offer a range of exciting experiences, from the best of nature in Croatia to history, culture, and, of course, beautiful beaches and idyllic islands!

Split is a centrally-located city along the coast of Croatia, with an international airport, so it makes a great base for your Croatia stay.

You can do day trips from Split to many places, including to a historic city in a neighboring country!

Zadar is one of the easiest day trips from Split
Zadar makes a fun day trip from Split

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From the beautiful waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Park, to the architecture, history, and culture of towns like Sibenik and Trogir, natural marvels like the Blue Cave, and idyllic islands like Vis and Hvar, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to day trips from Split.

Read on to discover the best day trips from Split, including the best things to do in each destination and tips for getting there.

1. Hvar Island

Hvar Island is one of the most popular day trips from Split, and that’s not surprising, because Hvar is an extraordinarily picturesque island and easy to visit from Split for the day by ferry or catamaran.

Hvar is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Croatia and a must on any first-timers’ Croatia itinerary.

View over Hvar Town from Spanish Fortress
Spectacular views of Hvar Town from the fortress

Hvar is a large island with several towns, plus beautiful countryside (think lavender farms in bloom in season!).

Hvar Town is the most visited destination on the island, and there’s plenty to do here on a day trip.

You can, however, take a taxi or arrange a transfer to Stari Grad, Hvar’s beautiful Old Town as well.

In Hvar Town, a visit to Fortica, the hilltop Spanish fortress, is a highlight. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Hvar’s rooftops and the outlying Pakleni Islands. Hiking up is fun, but you can also drive to the top or take a taxi.

Trg Sv Stjepana (Saint Stephen’s Square) is enormous, stretching from the waterfront to the cathedral honoring the saint. It is lively during the days and evenings, and a great place to stroll and people-watch.

Snap a photo of the cathedral and look for the old well nearby: it dates from the 16th century.

Wandering Hvar Town in Croatia
Hvar Town’s pretty buildings

Take some time to wander the streets of the town: away from the touristic core of the waterfront and St. Stephens Square, you will find picturesque alleys with lovely architecture and cobblestones.

The waterfront makes for a beautiful walk as well.

If you have the time, take a boat tour of the Pakleni Islands!

Getting to Hvar Island from Split

By Catamaran or Ferry

If you are not taking your car to Hvar, a catamaran ferry will bring you directly to Hvar Town. It’s the most convenient way to visit independently.

Car ferries take longer, and arrive at Stari Grad on Hvar, from where you can drive to Hvar Town. If you are a foot passenger taking the car ferry, you will need a taxi or private transfer to get from Stari Grad to Hvar Town.

The catamaran ride between Split and Hvar takes one hour each way.

We took the Kapetan Luka catamaran from the Pier of St. Peter in Split. Jadrolinija catamarans depart from the Pier of St. Nicholas.

We suggest booking in advance to be sure of getting the departure date and time you want.

By Guided Tour

This highly-rated tour takes you to Brac Island for swimming, then on to Hvar Town for a guided tour and about an hour to explore on your own, followed by a trip to the stunning Pakleni Islands for a swim, and another stop at Brac Island on the return trip for more swimming.
Book this tour now!

This 5-island full day tour from Split is hugely popular and includes some time in Hvar and Komiza (on Vis Island), along with a visit to Croatia’s Blue Cave. It’s an efficient way to see some of Croatia’s best offshore spots!
Book this tour now!

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a bucket list Croatia destination for many visitors to the country.

Split is somewhat further away from Plitvice Lakes than other major cities like Zagreb or Zadar, so if you want to visit Plitvice as a day trip from Split, plan on an early start to maximize your time in the park.

Waterfall in Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia
One of the many waterfalls in the park

The most-visited of Croatia’s national parks, Plitvice Lakes is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

There are sixteen lakes in the park, all interconnected by waterfalls, big and small. The lakes are divided into lower lakes and upper lakes, and you explore the park via boardwalk trails, trails along the sides of lakes, and a boat ride.

The lakes and waterfalls are set in the midst of forests, home to wildlife such as deer, bears, and wolves, and numerous bird species.

Walking through the park, admiring the beauty of the tranquil lakes and the magnificent waterfalls, is indeed a phenomenal experience for nature lovers.

One of the Plitvice Lakes in Croatia
One of Plitvice’s lakes

Visit Plitvice Lakes in the spring to enjoy the waterfalls in full flow, or in the fall, when leaf colors add another dimension of beauty to an already breathtaking place.

Summers here can be beautiful too, but expect the park to be super crowded then.

Getting to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Split

By Car

Renting a car and driving yourself is probably the most convenient and flexible option for getting from Split to Plitvice Lakes and back.

You can start really early, to spend more time at Plitvice Lakes: we suggest allowing a minimum of four hours for exploring the park. More is, of course, better!

The fastest route between Split and Plitvice Lakes is around 151 miles (243 km), and it should take you from 2 hours and 45 minutes to three hours to make the drive one way. It is a long day, but Plitvice Lakes National Park is totally worth it in our opinion!

Croatia is a great country for a road trip. The highways were is good shape when we visited last. If you are looking to rent a car for your Europe trip, consider Discover Cars! They scour multiple providers to get the best price for you, including brands like Hertz, Enterprise, Alamo, Budget, and Sixt.
Check availability and book your car now!

A view of lakes and waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes NP Croatia
Looking down on lakes and waterfalls in the park

By Bus

Although buses do run from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park, it takes four hours or more one way, and the earliest departure from Split at the time of writing is 8.30 a.m., which puts you in the park after noon, and makes for a super long and exhausting day trip.

If the public bus is your preferred option for traveling between Split and Plitvice Lakes, we suggest spending a night near the park.

To book bus and train tickets for Europe in advance, consider Omio. The website is in English, and I found the booking experience easy and hassle-free.
Book bus tickets for Croatia now!

By Guided Tour

A guided tour is an efficient way of doing a day trip from Split to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Although it’s a long day (12 hours), you start early in the day, skip the ticket line, and get lots of information from your guide.

This highly-rated tour offers transport in air-conditioned vehicles, your choice of routes in the park, and an English-speaking guide. Book this tour now!

3. Blue Cave (+ Islands) Tour

Located on the east side of Bisevo Island, the Blue Cave is a popular attraction on the Adriatic Coast. Reminiscent of the Blue Cave on Capri, Croatia’s Blue Cave can also be visited in a small boat.

Boats outside the Blue Cave in Croatia
Boats outside the Blue Cave

Note that you cannot swim in the cave: it’s strictly in to admire the water for a few minutes and take photos, and then back out. Visits are limited to 15 minutes, but may be shorter.

Late morning is typically the time when you can see the luminous blue color of the water.

It’s a surreal sight, but sadly, the Blue Cave is a victim of overcrowding, especially if you visit in the summer. At that time of year, you may wish to consider the Green Cave, also in Bisevo, where swimming is allowed.

The Blue Cave may not be accessible in inclement weather. To avoid disappointment, check the weather forecast for the day you plan to visit.

Also, speedboat rides can be choppy. Bring a rain jacket or poncho to stay dry!

Blie Cave Croatia
The water is a surreal blue

Getting to Blue Cave from Split

Guided Tour

By far the most convenient way to get to the Blue Cave is on a guided tour. Many tours are offered from Split, some combining the Blue Cave with visits to other coves and islands.

This popular five-island speedboat tour combines a trip to the Blue Cave with visits to the small fishing village of Komiža, Monk Seal Cave, Stiniva Beach, where you can swim or snorkel, and Budikovac Bay. If the Blue Cave cannot be visited, you will be offered an alternative date or a refund.
Book this tour now!

4. Krka National Park

The second most visited national park in Croatia, Krka National Park is located along the Krka River in Šibenik-Knin County. The park is known for its waterfalls, which, while not as numerous as at Plitvice Lakes, are still gorgeous.

Landscape in Krka National Park in Croatia
Landscape in the park

Skradinski Buk is the most visited attraction within Krka National Park. A number of impressive cascades culminate in a large and lovely plunge pool with blue green waters, fringed by forest.

When the falls are in full flow, the sight is breathtaking. A walking trail leads to the falls, and the walk is scenic, passing by little falls, the river, and local flora.

Good to know: You used to be able to swim in the plunge pool at Skradinski buk, but not any more. Also, this waterfall tends to get crowded during the day in season, so visit early or late in the day if you can.

Skradinski Buk Waterfall in Krka NP in Croatia
A view of Skradinski Buk

Roški Slap is another popular waterfall in Krka National Park. Take one of the park excursion boats to get to Roški Slap: the ride is very scenic. Once at the falls do the walking trail to admire local flora and fauna.

Visovac Island is another must-visit attraction in the park. If you are driving yourself, do not miss visiting the viewpoint next to the monument to Croatian King Petar Svacic, for the picturesque aerial view of the island with its monastery.

You can visit the island on a boat tour from Skradinski buk.

Getting to Krka National Park from Split

By Car

Renting a car and driving yourself is undoubtedly the best option for getting from Split to Krka National Park and back.

Driving yourself allows you to start as early as you want and stay as long as you like, plus it gives you the flexibility to explore within the park.

Unlike at Plitvice Lakes, attractions at Krka are spread out.

The fastest route between Split and Krka National Park (Lozovac entrance) is around 54 miles (87 km), and it should take you just a little over one hour to make the drive one way.

By Bus

Buses run from Split to Skradin, where you will find the main entrance to Krka National Park.

It takes about one hour and 20 minutes one way, and the earliest departure from Split at the time of writing is 7.00 a.m., which allows you plenty of time to explore in the park on a day trip.

There are several departures each day in both directions, making the bus a definite option for this day trip.

By Guided Tour

A guided tour is another convenient way of doing a day trip from Split to Krka National Park. This full-day trip allows you to take in the three best sights in the park: Skradinski buk, Roski Slap, and Visovac Island. It includes a stop in the little town of Skradin and a boat ride in the park. Book this tour now!

If you want to combine a trip to Krka National Park with some history and architecture in Sibenik, consider this highly-rated tour. This tour also includes the three main sights in the park. Sibenik is a beautiful town to visit as well. Book this tour now!

5. Mostar

Even if you aren’t planning a more extensive exploration of Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia’s neighbor, we highly recommend a day trip from Split to see the historic core of Mostar.

A day trip is enough time to take in the highlights of this very beautiful city center.

The most iconic sight in Mostar’s Old Town is definitely Stari Most, a very picturesque bridge over the Neretva River.

If you visit during the day, you can watch divers jump from the bridge into the icy waters of the river below, for donations.

Stari Most in Mostar, Bosnia
Stari Most is so picturesque!

For a great view of Stari Most, walk over to the center of Lucky Most, the next bridge along the river. You can also photograph the bridge from the banks of the Neretva River.

Climb the minaret of the Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque for fabulous views over the Old Town.

Walk the cobbled streets and visit the bazaars to pick up souvenirs.

Take a historic walking tour if you want to learn more about Mostar’s history and the Balkans War of the 1990s, in which Stari Most was destroyed.

A view of Mostar town
The beautiful blue-green Neretva River

Enjoy traditional Bosnian cuisine for lunch. If you leave early and are prepared for a long day, two worthwhile stops nearby are the beautiful Kravice Waterfall, an impressive tufa cascade, and the historic town of Počitelj, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Getting to Mostar from Split

By Car

Renting a car and driving yourself is the most flexible way to do the day trip from Split to Mostar. You will go quicker through the border crossing (remember your passports and other travel documents!) and be able to stop along the way if you want.

You will also be able to leave really early in the day, and spend as much time in Mostar as you want before heading back.

By Bus

Buses do run between Split and Mostar, but they do not really work for a day trip. The journey one way takes about 4.5 hours, and at the time of writing, the earliest departure from Split is at 9.30 a.m., putting you in Mostar at about 2 p.m. without undue delays at the border.

If the bus is your only travel option, we suggest spending the night in Mostar.

By Guided Tour

If you prefer not to drive, a guided tour is a hassle-free way to do the day trip from Split to Mostar. This well-reviewed tour includes Mostar, Kravica Waterfall, and Počitelj. The tour is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and takes about 12 hours. Book this tour now!

This highly-rated small-group tour combines Mostar with the pilgrimage site of Medjugorge, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to schoolchildren at Apparition Mountain. This tour is also a full-day tour, at 12 hours. Book this tour now!

6. Brac Island

Brač Island is a stunning island getaway on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, with beautiful beaches, history, and culture. Less visited than Hvar or Korcula, Brac is one of the largest islands in Croatia. Its white stone was used in building Diocletian’s Palace in Split.

Harbor in Supetar on Brac Island in Croatia
Supetar harbor on Brac Island

You will find one of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches, Zlatni Rat, on Brac Island.

Also called the Golden Horn because of its shape, the beach features gorgeous turquoise waters and golden pebbles.

You can walk to the beach from the port of Bol, or take the tourist train in season.

Zlatni Rat is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations, and you will find a range of activities to do here, allowing you to spend your entire time here if you like. You can sunbathe or snorkel, rent a paddle boat, or go parasailing or windsurfing.

Zlatni Rat Beach on Brac Island in Croatia
Beautiful Zlatni Rat Beach

Supetar is the main entry point to Brac and its largest town. It has beautiful orange-roofed houses, the 18th century Church of the Annunciation, and beaches on both sides of the port.

If you explore just outside town, you will find some of Brac’s famous olive groves. The cemetery is worth strolling for its many sculptures.

If you have the time, take a taxi to the top of Vidova Gora, the island’s tallest peak, for fabulous 360-degree views of the ocean and surrounding islands. It’s a picture postcard!

Getting to Brac Island from Split

By Ferry or Catamaran

Jadrolinija runs a car and passenger ferry between Split and Supetar on Brac Island. The crossing takes about one hour. There are several ferry crossings each day in season.

If you bring your car, you can drive from Supetar to Bol, where you will find the Zlatni Rat Beach, and to other places on the island you wish to visit.

If you are a foot passenger, take the catamaran, which will bring you directly to Bol.

Kapetan Luka (Krilo) runs the catamaran service between Split and Bol or Milna on Brac Island, but only during high season. Jadrolinija also operates seasonal catamarans between Split and Bol or Milna.

If you arrive on Brac Island by catamaran, you can use the local bus to travel around the island. Services start or end in Supetar. Taxis are also available.

By Guided Tour

A guided tour is another efficient way of visiting Zlatni Rat Beach, sometimes in combination with another island.

This highly-rated tour combines Zlatni Rat with the Blue Lagoon and Trogir. It’s a full day, 12.5 hours, and you hop around on a speedboat. Explore Bol, enjoy the water and beach at Zlatni Rat, swim or snorkel in the Blue Lagoon, and explore Trogir before returning to Split. Book this tour now!

This well-regarded full day cruise boat tour lasts about 7 hours. From Split, cross to Brac Island, where you will have a couple of hours to enjoy the water before you head to Solta, where you can enjoy more time in the water or explore the port of Stomorska before returning to Split. Book this tour now!

7. Trogir

One of the easiest and best day trips from Split is to the historic town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will find beautiful Venetian architecture in tiny Trogir, and its cobblestone streets are a joy to stroll.

Kamerlengo Fortress in Trogir, Croatia
Walk the walls of the Kamerlengo Fort in Trogir

Walking the streets of the historic center, either on your own, or on a guided walking tour, is the best thing to do in Trogir.

Stop to admire the Cathedral or Saint Lawrence, and step inside to view the ornate interior as well. Climb the bell tower for beautiful views over the rooftops of the town.

The main square in Trogir, where you will find the cathedral, is a great place to relax with a drink. There are other beautiful buildings around the square, like the Cipiko Palace and the Clock Tower and Loggia.

Walking the waterfront is another fun thing to do in Trogir. At the end of the promenade you will find the Kamerlengo Fortress. You can climb the walls for great views over the water and the rooftops of the town.

A view from the waterfront promenade in Trogir, Croatia
A view from the waterfront in Trogir

If you arrived by car, you can drive to Okrug Gornji Beach, where you can swim or snorkel, or enjoy other water activities. You can also walk to the Beach (about 30 minutes each way) or take a water taxi.

Getting to Trogir from Split

By Car

Trogir is located along the Croatian coast, about 19 miles north of Split. If you have a car, you can easily drive to Trogir. Parking in the old town can be hard to find, but you can park in one of the paid parking lots on the mainland, about a 10-minute walk away.

By Bus or Ferry

If you want to use public transport for your day trip to Trogir, there are several bus departures in both directions daily. The travel time is about 30 minutes one way. Buses generally depart from the bus station in Split, located near the ferry port.

You can also take a ferry between Split and Trogir during the high season. Boats are run by the Bura Line. The ferry only takes foot passengers. The ride is about one hour each way.

8. Sibenik

Home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the historic town of Sibenik on Croatia’s coast is one of the best day trips from Split to put on your itinerary.

Sibenik is a beautiful town to just stroll, even without purpose: its stone architecture is gorgeous. It is one of our favorite coastal towns in Croatia!

Wandering through Sibenik Old Town in Croatia
A pretty courtyard in Sibenik

While walking the alleyways of the town is a must, spend some time relaxing in one of the squares: the main square is beautiful, with Baroque buildings. Get an outside table at a cafe, and nurse a drink as you people watch and admire the beautiful buildings.

The Cathedral of Saint James is one of Sibenik’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Built entirely of stone quarried in Brac, the massive structure dominates its surroundings.

After you visit the cathedral, plan to photograph it from one of the higher streets nearby.

Cathedral of Saint Lawrence in Sibenik  Croatia
The Cathedral of Saint Lawrence

Sibenik’s four fortresses are worth exploring as well. St. Nicholas’ Fortress, located at the entrance to the Saint Anthony’s Channel, is a UNESCO site, and you can arrive by walking or biking, on a boat, or by guided tour. Barone Fortress contains a museum showcasing the history of Sibenik.

Walk the Riva, the waterfront promenade, to Banj Beach. It’s a small pebble beach that offers fabulous views of Saint Michael’s Fortress and the Sibenik Cathedral.

Jadrija Beach is a short drive or boat ride from the city center and is known for its colorful cabins.

Getting to Sibenik from Split

By Car

If you have a car, you can drive from Split to Sibenik. The fastest route takes a little over one hour each way, but you can also take the more scenic but slower coastal road one way if you like. We loved the drive along the coast here.

You will find paid parking lots quite close to Sibenik Old Town. You may also be able to find free street parking, depending on the day of week, but we thought it was safer to park in a lot.

By Bus or Ferry

There are frequent bus departures in both directions on the Split-Sibenik route, so the bus is a convenient way of doing the day trip from Split to Sibenik by public transport.

The bus ride takes about 90 minutes one way. The Old Town is just a 5-minute walk from the Sibenik bus station.

A ferry service between Split and Sibenik is supposedly run during high season by a company called Envira, but we could not find current schedules online. A ferry will take longer, but is a more scenic way to travel along the Croatian coast.

By Guided Tour

Guided tours from Split generally combine Sibenik with Krka National Park, giving you about two hours to explore Sibenik. They are efficient ways of doing day trips if you have limited time.

This highly-rated tour combines Sibenik with Krka National Park. The tour includes the three main sights in the naional park, and allows you to see the main sights in Sibenik. Book this tour now!

This well-reviewed tour starts with an exploration of Sibenik before taking you to tour Krka National Park, where a boat trip to Skradin is included. You will get a guided tour of the main sights in Sibenik Old Town. Book this tour now!

9. Vis Island

Vis Island is further out from Split than Hvar or Brac, but the beautiful island is well worth the longer ferry ride. Vis Town and Komiza are the two main settlements on the island, and they are about a 15-minute drive apart.

Stiniva Beach on Vis Island in  Croatia
Looking down onto Stiniva Beach

Not as developed as Hvar, Vis Island is a place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the Croatian coast: the turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and picturesque little coastal villages. You’ll find vineyards on Vis as well, and good food and drink.

Stiniva Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Europe. The little cove is sheltered on both sides by towering cliffs, making it an idyllic spot to swim.

The walking path to the beach is quite steep, so if you’d rather not go down the incline, you can rent a boat in the towns of Vis or Komiza. Guided tours will also take you to the cove.

There are several other beautiful beaches on Vis Island you can visit. Milna Beach and Stoncica Bay are two great options. The village of Komiza is worth strolling, with its cobblestone streets and little shops and galleries.

A view of Komiza on Vis Island Croatia
An aerial view of Komiza

If you enjoy local wine, you may wish to consider a wine tour on Vis. You can stroll through the vineyards and then enjoy a tasting. Restaurants on the island carry local wines as well.

Good to know: Croatia’s Blue Cave and Green Cave are located close to Vis, so you can join a tour from Komiza to see one or both caves. But there is plenty to do on Vis Island on a day trip if the tour of the caves is not on your must-do list.

Getting to Vis Island from Split

By Ferry

The ferry service between Split and Vis port on Vis Island is run by Jadrolinija. The ferry ride takes from one hour and 25 minutes to 2 hours and 20 minutes, depending on the route.

Because of the length of the ferry ride, plan a day trip to Vis Island in the summer months, when the first ferry to Vis departs relatively early in the day, and the last ferry back departs from Vis later in the evening.

In the off season, based on the ferry schedule, you will get only a couple of hours on the island.

Once on the island, you can rent a scooter or a car in the town of Vis, in order to get around and explore outside the town of Vis.

By Guided Tour

Guided tours are offered as a package of several islands and do not really allow for exploration of Vis on its own. But if you just want to spend time at beautiful Stiniva Beach, consider this highly-rated tour that combines a visit to the Blue Cave and Vis with other islands. Book this tour now!

This well-reviewed speedboat tour combines a stop in Komiza and swimming and snorkeling in Stiniva Cove with a visit to the Blue Cave and stops at the Pakleni Islands, Budikovac Island and in Hvar. Book this tour now!

10. Zadar

Zadar is one of the larger cities along the Croatian Coast, but it has a beautiful Old Town, with Roman ruins and lots of fabulous architecture. There are many fun things to do in Zadar in one day: start early from Split to maximize your sightseeing time.

Zadar’s Old Town is surrounded by the sea on three sides. It is very walkable, with many lively squares, where you can break up your walk for a drink or a bite to eat.

Narodni Trg, the People’s Square has notable buildings along its periphery. Trg Pet Bunara has five old wells you can view up close.

One of the many churches in Old Town Zadar in Croatia
A church in Zadar Old Town

Two of the most popular sights in Zadar are not really that old. Designed by Nikola Bašić, the Sea Organ and the Salutation to the Sun draw crowds in the evenings.

The Sea Organ converts the sound of the sea into musical notes, and the Salutation to the Sun draws upon solar energy to power a light show on the pavement after dark.

Zadar was a Roman settlement in ancient times, and you can see the remnants of the Roman Forum in the Old Town. Nearby you will find the massive church of Saint Donatus, where the cavernous interior is used today as a concert venue.

The Zadar Cathedral is a beautiful structure, with two rose windows on its facade. Climb the bell tower of the cathedral for 360-degree views over Zadar and the sea. There are about 180 steps to the viewing gallery at the top.

A view of Zadar Old Town, Croatia
A view of Old Town Zadar

Getting to Zadar from Split

By Car

If you have a car, you can drive from Split to Zadar and back. It is a flexible and efficient way to do the day trip from Split to Zadar, with the drive taking about one hour and 35 minutes via the fastest route.

By Bus

Split and Zadar are well connected by bus, with many departures in both directions. Early morning departures from Split are available, making the day trip possible by public transport. The journey is about 3 hours each way, so you will have a long day.

By Guided Tour

This private tour offers a guided three-hour exploration of Old Town Zadar on a day trip from Split. You will visit the major sights and be picked up from your hotel and dropped off there at the end of the day. Price varies based on group size. Book this tour now!

11. Omis (and the Cetina River)

Omis is a lovely little town along the Dalmatian Coast, one you can enjoy regardless of whether you want to participate in adventure activities on the Cetina River. Omis was one of our favorite day trips from Split on our most recent visit to Croatia.

A view of Omis Old Town in Croatia
A view of the Old Town

Stroll the Old Town, where many narrow alleyways await exploration.

Saint Michael’s Square, with the namesake church, is a place to sit and relax for a bit at a cafe as you people watch. Stop by the Church of Saint Peter, dating back to the tenth century. Browse the small souvenir shops.

The Fortress Mirabella is a must-visit if you do not have fear of heights (there is ladder climbing involved at the very top). You can even go up part of the way for fabulous views over the Old Town and Saint Michael’s Church, and the Cetina River and the Adriatic Sea.

A view of the  Cetina River in Omis Croatia
A view of the Cetina River in Omis

Omis is home to many beautiful beaches. Beach Velika Plaza, the Big Beach, is located in Punta, in the heart of the town of Omis. It is a long sandy beach, ideal for families with kids. You can rent sun loungers and beach umbrellas for a fun day in the sun.

There are other beaches a short walk or drive from the town center.

Many visitors come to Omis for adventure activities on the Cetina River. You can go river tubing, kayaking, river rafting, canyoning, and zip lining. The blue green river looks gorgeous, and many guided tours are available, either directly from Split or from Omis.

Getting to Omis from Split

By Car

The drive from Split south to Omis along the coast is short but very scenic. The drive takes just over 30 minutes each way, making Omis super accessible as a day trip destination with a car.

By Bus

The bus is a convenient way to get from Split to Omis and back by public transport. There are several departures through the day in both directions, and the ride takes about 30 minutes each way.

The walk from the bus station in Omis to the Old Town is about 0.3 mile.

By Guided Tour

Guided tours to Omis from Split are available mainly for adventures on the Cetina River. Tours from Split offer a choice of rafting, zip lining, basic canyoning, extreme canyoning and more. Browse the tours here.

12. Makarska

Makarska lies about 37 miles southeast of Split. The Makarska Riviera is known for its spectacular natural beauty, with many stunning beaches and a relaxed vibe.

Although you’d want to spend much longer than a day here, you can get a taste of the delightful area on a day trip from Split.

Makarska Harbor in Croatia
Boats in Makarska Harbor

Water activities are, of course, very popular along the Makarska Riviera. Operators can be found along the beach for parasailing, jet skiing and more. Swimming and cliff jumping are also popular.

On land, there are many hiking trails that go up into the mountains. You will find trailheads on either side of the port.

The markets of Makarska are a must-visit. You will find numerous markets alongside the beach, so wear comfy shoes and browse for all manner of things, including souvenirs to take home.

Beach in Makarska Croatia
The Makarska Riviera is known for its beauty

Nature lovers will want to spend some time in Biokovo Nature Park. Rent a scooter and ride up the steep mountain road if you aren’t afraid of the many hairpin bends. There are numerous hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulty levels in the park and the views are amazing.

Stroll Old Town Makarska. Kačić Square features a statue of Croatian poet Andrija Kačić Miošić, along with a stunning Venetian fountain. Here you will also find St. Mark’s Church.

There are many shops to browse, and cafes to sit and relax with a drink. In the summer, you can enjoy live music in the square.

Getting to Makarska from Split

By Car

Have a car? The drive to Makarska from Split takes a little over an hour each way, by the coastal road, which is extremely scenic.

By Bus

The bus is an extremely convenient way of doing the day trip from Split to Makarska. There are numerous departures through the day in both directions, and the journey takes about one hour and 15 minutes each way. The bus station in Makarska is a short walk from the Old Town.

Once in Makarska, rent a scooter in order to get around to see the nature park or visit beaches that are more than a walk away.

13. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is about 3 hours from Split, and there’s a lot to see and do.

But if a day trip is what you have room for in your itinerary, then, yes, absolutely visit Dubrovnik for the day from Split! Start early and stay late to maximize your time in Dubrovnik.

Walking the walls of Old Town Dubrovnik is, without question, the best thing you can do in Dubrovnik. The views over the rooftops of the old town and over the water are outstanding.

A view from the walls of Old Town Dubrovnik in Croatia
A view from the walls of Dubrovnik

Stroll Stradun, the main street in the old town, to admire the architecture. Walk up the stairways to smaller alleys. You’ll find lots of restaurants if you want to stop for a drink or a meal.

Visit the Rector’s Palace, the Dominican Monastery, and the Dubrovnik Cathedral. These are some of the most historic and most beautiful structures in Old Town Dubrovnik.

For an aerial view of the picturesque walled Old Town, take the cable car to the top of Mount Srd. If the cable car isn’t running, take a taxi. The view is worth it!

Old Town Dubrovnik from Mount Srd in Croatia
Old Town Dubrovnik from Mount Srd

Then head to the waterfront, where you can take a boat tour out to Lokrum Island. Peacocks roam free on the little island! You can also rent a canoe and paddle out to Fort Lovrijenac.

Getting to Dubrovnik from Split

By Car

If you have a car, you can drive from Split to Dubrovnik in about three hours, partly along the highway and partly along the scenic coastal road. The distance is 144 miles.

By Guided Tour

If you do not have a car, a guided tour is the most efficient option for visiting Dubrovnik from Split on a day trip. Although there is bus service, it takes about 4 hours or more each way.

This well-reviewed full day tour takes you from Split to Dubrovnik (and back) in an air-conditioned vehicle. In Old Town Dubrovnik, start with a guided walking tour, followed by three hours of time to explore more on your own.
Book this tour now!

*****

If you are planning to visit Split, I hope I have inspired you to consider adding some of these fabulous day trips to your itinerary for Split!

And do not forget to check out our in-depth guide to the best things to do in Split, including exploring Diocletian’s Palace, taking a tour of Game of Thrones locations, and more.

Looking for places to stay in Split?

If you are looking for accommodation in Split, so you have a comfortable base from which to explore, Split has many great options!

We stayed at the Judita Palace Heritage Hotel, located in a Renaissance palace next to Diocletian’s Palace. It is a bit of a splurge, but we thought the experience was worth it! Elegant rooms have exposed stone walls and parquet flooring. Bathrooms are decadent and rooms well-appointed. Book a stay here!

Central Square Heritage Hotel has a location just a few feet from the palace gate. Upper floor rooms have fabulous views of the rooftops of Split. You are walking distance from shops, restaurants, and bakeries. Rooms are furnished elegantly and bathrooms well-appointed. Book a stay here!

Ark Apartments are located in a quiet and secluded area by the sea, yet just three miles from the palace gate. The apartments come with free parking and free high-speed internet. You have direct access to the beach via pine and olive trees. Breakfast and evening cocktail hour are included. Book a stay here!

Planning a trip to Croatia? Check out some of our other articles!

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Discover the best day trips from Split, Croatia! From lively coastal towns to idyllic islands, national parks, and other cities, check out our curated list of the best day trip destinations from Split.

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Dhara

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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