Did you know that Diocletian's Palace was used to film various scenes in Game Of Thrones? No wonder, since it's one of the most beautiful, historic and exciting places to visit in Split! From its historic buildings to its markets and bucolic strolls, the city is one of Croatia's must-sees. So, what to see and do in Split in 3 days? Follow the Petit Futé guide, day by day!
Day 1: What to do in Split in 3 days? Diocletian's Palace, Green Market and beaches
Your 3-day getaway begins with one of Split's must-sees: Diocletian's Palace.
Morning: Diocletian's Palace and Green Market
As you pass through the Golden Gate of Diocletian's Palace, which also houses the Ethnographic Museum, you enter another world. This is no mere frozen monument, but a veritable living labyrinth, set on the shores of the Adriatic. You're about to walk in the footsteps of the emperor himself, between his ancient apartments bathed in light and the remains of the Temple of Jupiter. Your visit is also an opportunity to discover St. Domnius Cathedral, set up right where Diocletian's mausoleum used to be... Ironically, it now houses the relics of a martyr executed by the emperor!
To book: Take advantage of our partner's rates by booking your walking tour of the Old Town and Diocletian's Palacehere.
End your morning at the Green Market, the city's most famous market. Here, you can taste, smell and bargain! Cheeses, sun-drenched fruits, olives, fresh fish... It's noisy, generous and above all 100% Croatian: we love it!
Good to know: you can discover the history of Diocletian's palace in virtual reality just a few hundred meters from the Palace by booking here.
Afternoon: Stroll around Split city center and beach
The mild afternoon offers the ideal opportunity to stroll through the streets of the historic center, Old Split, where the Venetian influence is obvious. Your stroll begins at Trg Republika, a large arcaded square that almost resembles an Italian piazza. You'll then move on to Marmontova Street, the city's commercial heart (shopping fans beware!). From the Austro-Hungarian-style National Theatre to the authentic alleyways, charm is everywhere.
To end the day in style, head for the beach! Bačvice is the nearest and busiest. For a more tranquil setting, try Firule or the lovely Ovčice beach, within walking distance.
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Day 2: What to do in Split in 3 days? Museum, Marjan Hill, Riva and the Varoš district
Between bucolic strolls and fascinating museums, this second leg of your 3-day visit to Split promises to be perfect!
Morning: Archaeological Museum and Marjan Hill
Get your morning off to a good start with a dive into history at the Split Archaeological Museum. This museum, the oldest in Croatia, is a real treasure trove for antique enthusiasts! Nearly 150,000 pieces await you, most of them from Salona, the ancient Roman city nearby. With its sculpted sarcophagi, imperial busts and mosaics, it's almost as if you're strolling through an ancient villa!
For the rest of your morning, a complete change of atmosphere: let's take a deep breath on the marjan Hill. Get your cameras ready, you're in for a real treat! The most motivated can climb to the top of the Telegrin: 178 meters of panoramic view over the city and the Adriatic Sea, well worth the effort, but what a reward! Looking for a more leisurely stroll? Follow the coastal paths lined with cypresses and oleanders, stopping here and there to discover a troglodyte chapel or the hermitage of St. Jerome. A magnificent must-see, to be done during your 3 days in Split!
Explore Split in an eco-friendly way this tour in a 100% electric tuk-tuk to admire the panoramic views from the Vidilica terrace and Marjan Hill.
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Afternoon: Split's Riva and the Varoš district
What could be more emblematic than the Riva to soak up the soul of Split! This seafront promenade, with its palm trees and neoclassical facades, promises a 100% romantic stroll. Along the quay, you'll enjoy magnificent views of Diocletian's Palace, St. Francis Church and Bajamonti Palace.
Good to know if you push on to the west bank, you'll discover a more local, almost bohemian atmosphere. It's an ideal spot for a sunset stroll!
It's time to get lost (so to speak) in the Varoš district. Clinging to the hillside, you'll find it between the Old Town and Marjan. Here, everything exudes authenticity : cobbled streets, old stones, narrow staircases and even laundry hanging from the windows: everything you need for a complete change of scenery. In this former fishermen's quarter, charm has managed to resist the onslaught of time. Take the time to climb slowly - yes, it's a bit of a climb! - to one of the viewpoints offering incredible views of the city's red roofs and the port.
Day 3: What to do in Split in 3 days? Jaman Art Gallery, Game of Thrones Museum, boat and Klis Fortress
Art takes center stage on the last leg of your 3-day visit to Split. This time, we're getting out of town to discover the wonders of the surrounding area!
Morning: Jaman Art Gallery and Game of Thrones Museum
It's time for artistic immersion at the Jaman Art Center, dedicated to urban art... as colorful as it gets! Here, forget classic seascapes: local artist Danijel Jaman propels you into an acid pop universe, halfway between neo-expressionism and geek culture. Admittedly, it's not to everyone's taste, but then, isn't that just like any other art form? Here, walls explode with color, canvases vibrate with energy, and even phone covers become works of art!
A few steps away, fantasy fans can marvel at the Game of Thrones Museum. This small, immersive museum plunges you into the world of the cult series, greeting you as you enter with the jaws of a dragon. From Meereen to Winterfell, via King's Landing and beyond the Wall, each room is carefully staged. You'll discover replica weapons, costumes and life-size statues of your favorite characters. As an added bonus, the tour ends with a photo on the famous Iron Throne! Tempted? Click here to book your admission to the Game of Thrones Museum.
Tip from Petit Futé: to discover all the secrets behind the filming of the series in Split, you can book a 100% Game of Thrones-themed guided tour right here. It takes you from the cellars of Diocletian's palace to the backstreets where the actors have filmed: magical!
Afternoon: Boat trip and Klis Fortress
To round off your stay in style, treat yourself to a boat trip to the island of Brač and its famous Zlatni Rat beach, nicknamed the "Golden Horn" because of its unique shape. In addition to swimming and snorkeling, some excursions also offer a stopover in the charming village of Bol, where you can sample local specialties or visit a wine cellar.
Book my cruise to the island of Brač
Back on the mainland, head for the klis fortressperched 360 meters above sea level between the Mosor and Kozjak mountains. Just a 20-minute drive from Split, this medieval bastion offers breathtaking views of the city and the Adriatic! Steeped in history, it was the scene of numerous battles, notably against the Ottomans. And for once, it was also the setting for the Game of Thrones series!
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Where to stay in Split for 2 or 3 days? Our selection of the best hotels
Most of Split's points of interest are to be found in the Old Town, making it the ideal place to set down your suitcases. You'll also find some charming hotels on Split's Riva. Here, you'll enjoy a beautiful view, while staying close to all the things you can do in Split in 3 days.
- The most practical
Rooms Kampus was originally a student residence. However, in season, the rooms are open to visitors. Simple but efficient, they offer comfort at an attractive price. Click here to book your room near Old Split.
- The most complete
Just a stone's throw from the city center, Nirvana Rooms offers comfortable, well-equipped rooms in a charming building. The hotel's flower-filled exterior, as well as its parking lot, are appreciated extras, and can be booked here.
- Best value for money
The Damira Rooms is renowned for its warm welcome and affordable prices. Close to all amenities (city center, restaurants, beaches, etc.), it offers an ideal pied-à-terre for your 3-day stay in Split, bookable here in just one click.
Click here to discover all the best hotels in Split.
Split, along with Zagreb and its must-sees, is one of Croatia's treasures that amazes visitors from all over the world. Its incredibly rich heritage is one of the 5 good reasons to visit Split during your trip to Croatia. To complete this unforgettable trip, don't forget to check out our top 20 must-see places to visit in Croatia! And if you're looking for an original way to visit the country, there are sailing cruises that promise 1001 wonderful memories.
See also the most popular activities to do during a 2 or 3-day stay in Split:
