Split, the second-largest city in Croatia and the largest in the Dalmatia region, is a bustling port town with a remarkable landscape.
Home to the illustrious Diocletian’s Palace – a World Heritage Site and the city’s most prominent attraction – the former Greek colony was established during the 3rd or 2nd century BC.
Recognized as one of the epicenters of Croatian culture, Split is visited by hundreds of art and culture aficionados from all around the world. Known for its marvelous architecture, extensive line of attractions, and world-class nightlife, the city is a great choice for an authentic Croatian holiday.
Below are 15 of the best tours available in and around Split.
1. Walking Tour of Split’s History and Heritage
Source: xbrchx / shutterstockSplit is home to several awe-inspiring architectural and cultural jewels – and what better way to explore these marvels than on foot?
During the 90-minute walking tour of Split’s city center and the historic old town, you will get an opportunity to learn about the city’s heritage and history.
The tour will allow you to walk around the well-known, UNESCO protected Diocletian’s Palace, and learn about the prehistoric site.
Additionally, you’ll get an opportunity to walk through other equally significant sights located within the city center, including but not limited to Jupiter’s temple, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, Vestibul, and the Golden Gates.
The guide’s fee is included in the tour, but entrance tickets and other fees aren’t.
2. Day Trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Source: weniliou / shutterstockSplit is home to some of the most fascinating lakes, canyons, and nature trails in Croatia.
During the 12-hour day tour to Plitvice Lakes National Park, you’ll get a chance to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and immerse yourself in its natural exquisiteness.
You start your tour by witnessing the 16 terraced lakes, the mesmerizing waterfalls, and the lush walking trails, followed by the changing colors of water at the Upper Lakes. Finally, you’ll visit the Lower Lakes and its enchanting natural limestone dams before exploring the Great Waterfall.
The tour price includes the guide fee, transportation, and boat ride fee, but not the entrance fee to the national park or any food and beverages.
3. Segway Tour of Split
Source: paul prescott / shutterstockHop on your designated Segway and get ready to roll along the lively streets of this prehistoric town that is steeped in history and heritage.
The two-hour Segway tour takes you through the famed streets of Split and its most celebrated sights as your guide takes you to visit the Diocletian’s Palace, the Croatian National Theater, the Fruit Square, and several other places of importance.
End the tour at Marjan Hill to enjoy a panoramic view of this enthralling city.
Equipment such as helmets and fluorescent jackets are included in the tour price, but lunch or any other meals and beverages except coffee aren’t.
4. Hvar and Pakleni Islands Full-Day Catamaran Cruise
Source: www.getyourguide.comOne of the most luxurious ways to explore the magnificent islands around Split is aboard a full-day Catamaran cruise to Hvar and Pakleni Islands.
During this 11-hour mega cruise, you get to experience the surreal beauty of Šolta Island, walk through the alleyways of Hvar’s old town, and swim in the pristine bays of Pakleni Islands and Brač Island.
You will also get an hour to explore Hvar on your own before heading to Pakleni Islands.
The catamaran cruise tour is inclusive of snacks and unlimited beverages such as soft drinks and beer.
End the day on a perfect note as you enjoy a spellbinding sunset with a delightful drink and some cheerful dance music while sailing back to Split.
5. Krka National Park and Waterfalls Tour with 30-minute River Cruise
Source: QQ7 / shutterstockYou will be surprised to know that Krka National Park is home to the most extensive travertine cascade system in Europe – Skradinski Buk Waterfalls. Not only that, the National Park Waterfalls are known to be the only one in the country to allow swimming (during summer season).
This 8-hour tour starts with a 30-minute river cruise through Krka River, takes you through the stunning waterfalls, and gives you ample free time that you can either spend swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the falls or exploring the surrounding lush forests.
You also have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the remnants of an ancient stone house settlement and Europe’s first hydroelectric power station.
The tour fee is exclusive of the entrance fee to Krka National Park and any meals and beverages.
6. Night Glow Stand-Up Paddle Boarding Tour Through Dalmatian Waters
Source: www.getyourguide.comStand-up paddleboarding comes with an intriguing twist thanks to this tour, which offers you a chance to hop on an LED-lit SUP and cruise through the waters of the Dalmatian sea and river.
During this 2-hour night tour, you will experience a beguiling sunset over the Dalmatian sea as you move past the traditional native houses carved out of white rocks and cliffs.
Come nightfall, paddle through the river waters as the light of your SUP reveals the exotic marine life around you.
The tour price includes all necessary gears, basic training and instruction by a certified trainer, and a licensed guide.
7. Sunset Cruise with Live Music and An Open Bar
Source: www.getyourguide.comThe best way to take a break from the humming town of Split is to take a step out of it and into the azure waters surrounding the city.
Hop aboard the 2-hour Polaris sunset cruise to enjoy an evening filled with live music and an open bar serving unlimited champagne, wine, beer, and soft drinks.
As the atmosphere starts working its magic, appreciate the towering mountains at the bay of Kaštela, numerous marinas around the waters, and of course, Hajduk – the local football club which is an institution among the citizens of Split.
End your time by sailing to the town’s new part which boasts several city beaches.
8. Wine Tasting Tour with a Private Sommelier
Source: www.getyourguide.comA visit to Croatia is incomplete if you don’t immerse yourself in the country’s legendary wine culture.
Make your way via public transport or a taxi to Kaštel Sućurac Center to meet your private sommelier, who will take you through a 3-hour wine tasting session at Kaštel Sućurac winery.
Home to the famous Zinfandel wine, the region is popular for its local grape varieties and some of the finest wines in the world.
Enjoy a chance to taste some of the best quality wines and tapas during the tour, most of which are exclusive to the Kaštela wine region.
The tour fee is inclusive of wine tasting and authentic tapas, but additional beverages and wine bottles aren’t included.
9. Greyp E-bike Tour of Marjan Hill and Forest
Source: www.getyourguide.comCycling through the fabled streets of Split is an experience like no other.
This 2-hour bike tour starts with you meeting your fun and knowledgeable guide and cycling through the heart of ancient Split, Varoš as you head towards Marjan Hill.
Ride along the pine forest and take in the freshness around before you make it to the Marjan Hill viewpoint to enjoy a stunning vista of the city.
10. Cetina River Canyoning Tour
Source: www.getyourguide.comCrafted for the adrenalin junkies, the Cetina River canyoning tour is a must to fill your Croatian trip with adventure.
During this half-day tour, you get to explore the wilderness and astounding natural beauty of the country. Journey through an extraordinary canyon along the river and encounter the many waterfalls, subterranean tunnels, river rapids, and the 50-meter high Gubavica waterfall cascades.
Enjoy a refreshing swim and dive into the deep waters for some additional thrill.
Tour price is inclusive of all canyoning. Gear except for shoes.
11. Full-Day Tour to Hvar’s Blue Cave
Source: www.getyourguide.comHop aboard a full-day speedboat tour and discover one of Croatia’s most exquisite natural spectacles – the Blue Cave on Biševo Island.
Soak in the natural beauty at the Blue Cave before heading to another incredible natural wonder, the Seal Monk Cave. Marvel at the wonder of Stiniva Cove’s pebble beach before exploring Budikovac’s turquoise lagoon.
Alternatively, venture along the pebble beach and reward yourself with a unique opportunity to visit the only Dalmatian island with a single resident.
Other interesting stops during the trip include the Pakleni Islands, Hvar Town, Fortica Fortress, and one of the first public theatres in Europe.
The entrance fee to the Blue Caves is not included in the package.
12. Private Walking Tour of the City with a Local Guide
Source: Dreamer4787 / shutterstockExperience a personalized journey through a local’s perspective as an experienced local guide takes you past the dreamlike streets of Split.
Learn where the locals shop for groceries and hang out during their leisure time. Every tour is customized according to your interests, and your guide will take you to places that best meet your needs.
Get expert tips to move around the city, what to see, and what to do as you spend a few hours exchanging interesting details about each other’s culture.
The tour doesn’t include fees for any special attractions or activities, personal expenses such as meals, beverages, and transportation, and tips.
13. Game of Thrones Themed Tour
Source: carol.anne / shutterstockA fantastic opportunity for GoT lovers to explore their favorite spots from the world-famous fantasy series, this tour takes you through some of the most significant filming locations of Game of Thrones.
Start the 6-hour tour at the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian’s Palace, and travel through Žrnovnica (famous for Missandei’s bathing scene), the quarry that is known for the massive battle in the fourth season, and end at Klis Fortress, the location for Danaerys’ stronghold.
Wrap up the tour with an elaborate Game of Thrones style dinner at the filming location.
14. Split Culinary Tour
Source: www.getyourguide.comA country’s food culture is as significant as its history and architecture, and Split’s Mediterranean cuisine is a fine example.
During this 3-hour culinary tour, you will get a chance to explore the local gourmet fish market to purchase Adriatic seafood, and the green market to try goat cheese and other authentic food items.
After you buy a few other groceries for your meal, head over to the Wine House at the 1700-years-old Diocletian Palace and hand over the produce to the chef, who will prepare an exquisite three-course lunch for you.
Enjoy a walking tour around the area while your food is being prepared.
The tour includes a professional guide, lunch prepared by the chef, and the walking tour – but not the ingredients and beverages.
15. Walking Tour of Diocletian Palace and the Jewish Sights
Source: Slaven Beram / shutterstockAmong the extremely captivating past of Split lays the history of Jewish Split, which is a story of hard work, partnership, and fascinating architecture.
During this 90-minute tour, your informative and cheerful guide will take you through the city’s 1700 years of history, including legends, facts, and little-known secrets of Split’s Jewish community.
Visit the old Jewish ghetto, the bell tower, the synagogue, the old Jewish cemetery, the bookshop Morpurgo, and several other notable sights.
Marvel at the art and architecture around you as your expert guide brings the city’s past to life through his thought-provoking insights about the city.