Split‑Dalmatia brings Roman palaces, UNESCO old towns, pine coves, and easy island hops. Think Split and Trogir on the mainland; Makarska Riviera under Biokovo; Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta and Čiovo offshore. Use this guide to pick a base, plan beaches and ferries, and add one inland day.
Split‑Dalmatia County: Overview & Highlights
The county runs from Trogir to the Makarska Riviera, with Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta, Čiovo, and Drvenik Veli offshore. It holds three UNESCO assets: Split’s Historical Complex with Diocletian’s Palace (1979), the Historic City of Trogir (1997), and Hvar’s Stari Grad Plain (2008). Ferries from Split link these hubs quickly; distances are short.
Expect sun‑washed alleys, baroque squares, warm seas from June to October, and fresh fish with local wine. Add outdoor action: Cetina rafting, Vidova Gora hikes, Biokovo Skywalk views, Blue Cave mornings, and Marjan sunsets.
Quick Orientation
Coast and Cities. Split is the hub and largest city. Trogir sits west near the airport. Omiš guards the Cetina canyon. Makarska anchors a string of beaches under Mount Biokovo.
Islands. Brač lies close and suits beach days and windsurfing. Hvar mixes heritage, vineyards, and nightlife. Vis is quiet, remote, and proud of Blue Cave on nearby Biševo. Šolta is green and close. Čiovo links to Trogir by bridges. Drvenik Veli hides the Blue Lagoon at Krknjaši.
Inland. Solin holds Roman Salona. Klis Fortress towers above Split. Sinj keeps the Alka tradition. Imotski shows the Blue and Red karst lakes.
Gateway. Split Airport sits between Kaštela and Trogir. Split Ferry Port links the islands year‑round. High‑season brings more fast boats and extra sailings.
Top Experiences in Split‑Dalmatia County
Diocletian’s Palace & St. Domnius bell tower (Split) — dawn Peristyle and city‑wide views.
Trogir old town — St. Lawrence Cathedral portal and Kamerlengo walls.
Marjan & Split beaches — Bačvice for sand; Kašjuni/Kaštelet under pines.
Pakleni Islands (Hvar) — cove‑hopping by taxi boat or kayak.
Stari Grad & the Stari Grad Plain — UNESCO field system and waterfront strolls.
Bol & Zlatni Rat + Vidova Gora (Brač) — iconic spit and the Adriatic’s highest island peak.
Blue Cave & Vis highlights — morning glow on Biševo; Stiniva cove later.
Cetina River (Omiš) — rafting Class II–III and canyon zipline.
Biokovo Skywalk — glass viewpoint above Makarska; go on a clear day.
Salona & Klis Fortress — Roman ruins and ridge‑top views in one loop.
Split City: Ancient Palace, Buzzing Seafront, Easy Day Trips
Split is both a living city and a heritage site. The old town sits inside a Roman palace. The Riva promenade frames the harbor with palms and cafés. Ferries and catamarans depart just across the street. The vibe is energetic yet relaxed.
Highlights in Split
Diocletian’s Palace. The grid of lanes is Roman, medieval, and modern at once. Step onto the Peristyle. Visit the cathedral, which was the emperor’s mausoleum. Look for sphinxes, arches, and reliefs.
Marjan Park. Climb the steps for views. Continue to Telegrin for the highest point. Small coves make easy swims.
Museums. The Archaeological Museum holds regional finds. The Meštrović Gallery showcases sculpture and sea light.
City Beaches. Bačvice has shallow sand and a local ball game called picigin. Firule sits next door. Kaštelet and Kašjuni sit under cliffs on Marjan’s south side.
Food and Wine. Expect grilled fish, blitva with potatoes, and pašticada slow‑cooked beef. Local wines include Pošip, Debit, and Plavac Mali.
Split Logistics
Arrival. Split Airport sits northwest of the city. Buses and taxis run to Split and Trogir. Travel time depends on traffic and stops.
Ferries. The main port lies at the foot of the old town. Year‑round lines go to Brač, Hvar, Vis, and Šolta. Summer adds more fast services and extra departures.
Getting Around. Walk the old town. Use buses for beaches if needed. Ride‑hail and taxis are available.
Who Will Love Split
First‑timers who want variety in one base. Families who prefer short transfers and city facilities. Food lovers. History fans. People who want to island‑hop with minimal planning.
Trogir and Čiovo: UNESCO Town Beside Island Beaches
Trogir is small and beautiful. It sits on an islet between Čiovo and the mainland. Its stone lanes are cool at midday. Its waterfront shines at sunset.
What to See in Trogir
St. Lawrence Cathedral. The Romanesque portal by Master Radovan is a highlight of Dalmatian art.
Kamerlengo Fortress. Walk the walls for views of Čiovo and the channel.
Town Loggia and Square. Sit for a coffee and watch the scene.
Beaches and Base on Čiovo
Čiovo connects to Trogir by bridges. You get sandy pockets and long pebble strands. Families like the easy access and rentals. Small bays line the south and west shores. The water is clear and calm most mornings.
Who Will Love Trogir and Čiovo
Travelers who want a quiet UNESCO base near the airport. Families who value beach access and evening strolls. Couples who prefer compact towns.
Brač: Zlatni Rat, Vidova Gora, and Breezy Bays
Brač is close to Split and feels spacious. Stone quarries shaped local architecture for centuries. The coastline is indented and green.
Top Things to Do on Brač
Zlatni Rat, Bol. A photogenic pebble spit that shifts shape with wind and currents and often enjoys Blue Flag status.
Vidova Gora. The highest Adriatic island summit. Drive or hike for views over Hvar and the channel.
Lovrečina Bay. A sandy curve near Postira, good for kids.
Supetar and Sutivan. Walk harbors, eat gelato, and join locals on evening promenades.
Windsports. Bol is well known for windsurfing and kitesurfing in summer thermals.
Getting to and Around Brač
Ferries connect Split to Supetar year‑round. Fast boats run to Bol in season. Buses link main towns. Roads are scenic and well kept.
Who Will Love Brač
Beach seekers. Active travelers. Families who want variety without long boat trips.
Hvar: Heritage Towns, Vineyards, and the Pakleni Islands
Hvar mixes glamour and tradition. The island holds sunlit fields, stone villages, and deep bays. It also holds the Stari Grad Plain, preserved since Greek times.
Hvar Highlights
Hvar Town. Climb to Fortica for the harbor view. Visit the Arsenal and historic theater. Swim off rocky platforms or hop to the Pakleni Islands.
Stari Grad. Walk quiet streets and a wide waterfront. Explore the Tvrdalj of Petar Hektorović. Drive out to the UNESCO field system.
Jelsa and Vrboska. Low‑key towns with beaches and pine walks.
Pakleni Islands. String of coves and lagoons opposite Hvar Town. Water taxis and tours run all day in season.
Logistics for Hvar
Car ferries run Split–Stari Grad year‑round. Fast boats link Split and Hvar Town in season. Island buses connect towns. Summer is busy and lively. Spring and autumn are calmer.
Who Will Love Hvar
Couples and friends who like nightlife with nature close by. Culture fans who enjoy historic towns. Swimmers who like cove hopping.
Vis and Biševo: Quiet Shores and the Blue Cave
Vis sits farthest from the mainland. Its navy past kept development low. The feel is authentic and calm.
Top Things on Vis
Komiža. A fishing town with evening glow. Boats run to Biševo from here.
Blue Cave, Biševo. On the east side of Biševo, about 5 km southwest of Vis; morning light shines electric blue when seas are calm.
Stiniva Bay. A narrow cliff entry opens to a small beach.
Srebrna and Zaglav. White‑stone beaches under pines.
Military Sites. Join a guided visit to tunnels and viewpoints.
Logistics for Vis
Ferries and fast boats run from Split to Vis Town. Boat tours depend on weather. The sea state matters. Plan a backup day.
Who Will Love Vis
Travelers who want slow days and small harbors. Photographers. People who avoid crowds and loud bars.
Šolta: Close‑to‑Split Island With Green Coves
Šolta is near yet feels rural. Olive groves cover hills. Bays are clear and quiet.
Things to Do on Šolta
Rogač and Nečujam. Swim and stroll. Family friendly with easy entries.
Maslinica. A west‑facing harbor with sunsets and islets offshore.
Olive Oil and Honey. Try tastings and visit family producers.
Logistics for Šolta
Short ferry rides from Split to Rogač. Buses and taxis connect bays. It is simple for a day trip or a low‑key base.
Drvenik Veli and the Blue Lagoon (Krknjaši)
The Blue Lagoon sits between Drvenik Veli and two small islets. Water shines turquoise over white sand and rock. It is popular in high season. Come early or late for calm water and fewer boats.
Boat tours depart from Split and Trogir. Private skippers let you adjust timing. Pack a dry bag, reef‑safe sunscreen, and water shoes.
Omiš and the Cetina Canyon: Rafting, Ziplining, and Clifftop Views
Omiš sits where the Cetina River meets the sea. Cliffs rise over town; the canyon cuts inland and turns wild fast.
Best Experiences in Omiš
Rafting & kayaking. Family‑friendly rapids, Class II–III; typical trip 2.5–3 hours with gear and transport.
Zipline. Eight cables (~2.1 km total; longest ~700 m) over the canyon with big views.
Fortresses. Fortica for panoramas; Mirabela above the old town.
Beaches. Sand at the river mouth; pebbles north and south.
Makarska Riviera and Biokovo Skywalk
The Makarska Riviera runs under the grey wall of Mount Biokovo. The water is deep blue. The pines are thick and fragrant. The coves are many.
Where to Go on the Riviera
Brela. Punta Rata is a Blue Flag beach with postcard views. Trails link small coves.
Baška Voda. Family hotels and long promenades. Many cafés and ice‑cream stops.
Makarska Town. A lively base with a harbor, old streets, and a night scene.
Tučepi and Podgora. Long pebble beaches and relaxed vibes.
Biokovo Skywalk and Mount Biokovo
The Skywalk is a glass horseshoe at high altitude (1,228 m at Ravna Vlaška). The deck hangs out from the cliff and opened in 2020. The view takes in islands and ridges. The access road is narrow and steep in parts. Go when weather is clear. Morning light works well for photos. Carry a layer. It can be cool at the top.
Roman Salona and Klis Fortress: One Heritage Day
Salona (Solin)
Roman streets and city walls Early Christian basilicas and cemeteries Amphitheater shows the scale of the metropolis On‑site museum with local finds
Klis Fortress
Stone walls on a ridge above Split Wide views over the city and sea Small exhibits on local history and filming
Logistics & Tips
Pair both in one day Start at Salona in morning shade Drive or bus up to Klis for sunset views Wear sturdy shoes and sun protection Carry water; summer surfaces are hot and exposed
Imotski’s Blue and Red Lakes
Imotski sits inland near the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Two karst lakes define the town.
Blue Lake. The water level changes with seasons. A path descends to the shore.
Red Lake. A deep sinkhole with red cliffs. It is dramatic and vast.
Drive from the coast in about 90 minutes, depending on your base. Combine with Makarska or a vineyard stop.
Sinj and the Spirit of the Alka
About Sinj
Town in the Cetina region Historic core and calm inland vibe Good stop for lunch on a loop from Split or Makarska
Sinjska Alka
Annual chivalric tournament in August Honors a historic victory and living tradition Targets are rings suspended on a rope; riders score by precision
Logistics & Tips
Combine with Klis or the Cetina canyon in one day. Arrive early on Alka days; streets are busy and parking limited Carry water in summer heat
Beach Guide by Area
Split City Beaches
Bačvice. Sandy and shallow. Great for small children and evening swims.
Firule. Next to Bačvice with similar sand and a local scene.
Kaštelet and Kašjuni. Pebble coves under cliffs and pines on Marjan’s south side.
Trogir and Čiovo
Pebble arcs line the south and west of Čiovo. Water sports rentals are common. Choose early morning for calm seas.
Brač
Zlatni Rat (Bol). Iconic spit. Shade under pines. Windsports area nearby.
Lovrečina Bay. True sand. Gentle slope. A good family choice.
Murvica. Smaller and wilder. Clear water and a quiet feel.
Hvar
Dubovica. Stone houses and a bright bay. A path leads down from the road.
Pakleni Islands. Many small coves. Pick by wind and crowds.
Grebišće and Mina (Jelsa). Shallow areas for kids.
Vis
Stiniva. Narrow cliff entrance. Best early or late.
Srebrna and Zaglav. White slabs and pebbles. Pine shade behind the shore.
Makarska Riviera
Punta Rata (Brela). Clear water and mountain backdrop.
Promenade Beaches. Long stretches in Baška Voda, Makarska, and Tučepi.
Nature and Active Holidays
Hiking
Marjan loops last 30–90 minutes with shade and city views Vidova Gora (780 m) from Bol takes 3–4 hours round trip Biokovo offers short viewpoint walks and full‑day ridge trails Start early, carry 2 liters of water, a hat, and sunscreen Check mountain weather; it is cooler and windier at altitude
Cycling
Island roads thread pines and olive groves with light traffic off‑season Ride Supetar–Postira–Pučišća on Brač for harbor scenery Pedal Stari Grad Plain lanes on Hvar among stone walls and fields Avoid rush hours near Split and Trogir and use front/rear lights Wear a high‑viz strap and keep right on narrow bends
Watersports
Windsurf and kite in Bol’s afternoon thermals from June to September Kayak Pakleni coves and Marjan bays; hug the coast in wind SUP at sunrise on calm water in Split, Hvar, and Bol Use reef‑safe sunscreen and watch for boat traffic in channels Check beach flags and local advisories before entry
Diving
Vis has wrecks, caves, and clear water with 20–30 m visibility Book certified centers for equipment, boats, and local briefings Expect boat dives, thermoclines, and occasional currents Allow 18–24 hours between last dive and your flight
Canyoning & River Sports
Cetina routes mix abseils, slides, jumps, and swims in cold water Classic runs suit beginners and families; advanced sections exist Operators provide wetsuits, helmets, and buoyancy aids Wear closed water shoes and follow guide instructions Zipline over the canyon on eight cables for aerial views
Climbing
Omiš limestone crags offer bolted sport routes for all levels Choose shaded walls in midsummer and start early Use a certified guide if you are new to local rock Helmet, proper shoes, and plenty of water are essential
Culture, Food, and Wine
Cuisine
Grilled fish, octopus salad, black risotto, and shellfish shape daily menus. Try pašticada with gnocchi for a slow‑cooked classic. Share a peka of veal, lamb, or octopus in village konobe. On Hvar, look for gregada fish stew. On Vis, order viška pogača with salted fish. In Poljica hills, taste soparnik, a chard pie. Sides often include blitva with potatoes. End with fritule or rožata.
Wine & Local Spirits
Reds lean on Plavac Mali from sunny slopes. Whites include Bogdanuša (Hvar) and Vugava (Vis), with Pošip and Debit widely poured. Ask for Prošek, a traditional Dalmatian dessert wine. Many homes infuse rakija, such as travarica with herbs. Olive oil is excellent; buy small bottles to take home.
Markets & Food Experiences
Split’s Pazar (green market) runs every morning. The fish market fills early. Islands host small weekly markets in season. Book winery tastings around Stari Grad and Jelsa. On Brač, visit olive mills and small producers. Consider a cooking class or a fisherman’s lunch on quiet bays.
Festivals & Seasonal Events
Summer brings wine nights, fishermen’s evenings, and street food pop‑ups. Dates change each year. Town calendars list weekly happenings in July and August. Expect live music on waterfronts and village squares.
Dining Tips
Reserve in July and August, especially in Hvar Town and Split. For fish, prices are by weight; ask for the kilo price first. House wines by the carafe are good value. Cards are common, but carry some cash for small konobe. Service is relaxed; meals stretch over sunset.
When to Visit
April–May. Mild weather and blooming hillsides. Sea warms late in this window. Trails are quiet.
June. Long days and beach weather. Boats and buses add frequency. Crowds begin to build.
July–August. Peak season. Hot, busy, and festive. Book ferries and stays early.
September. Warm seas and calmer towns. A sweet spot for many travelers.
October. Softer light and cooler nights. Good for hiking and touring.
Winter. City culture continues. Islands are quiet with reduced sailings.
Transport at a Glance
Airport
Split (SPU) between Kaštela and Trogir; frequent buses, taxis, and transfers to Split/Trogir
Ferries & catamarans
Year‑round lines from Split to Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta; summer adds fast boats and extra runs. Always check same‑day schedules and sea conditions
Buses
Intercity lines cover the coast and inland hubs; denser in summer
Driving
Scenic coastal road; highways speed longer legs. Mountain roads can be narrow; book lodging with parking
Micromobility
Bikes/scooters are ideal for short island hops; wear helmets and ride defensively
Traveler Types: Where to Base Yourself
Families with Small Kids
Base in Čiovo (south/west) or Makarska Riviera. Promenades, gentle beaches, rentals, easy food options. Bol works too with a day at sandy Lovrečina.
Hikers and Climbers
Base in Makarska for Biokovo and the Skywalk. Omiš for Cetina canyon trails and ziplines. Brač for Vidova Gora. Start early and carry water.
Island Dreamers
Vis (Komiža or Vis Town) for quiet coves and slow days. Stari Grad for heritage and calm. Šolta’s Maslinica for small‑harbor sunsets.
Sailors
Split ACI or Kaštela for charters and provisioning. Trogir ACI is a classic base. Island marinas: Milna (Brač), Vrboska or Palmižana (Hvar). Short legs and sheltered channels.
Food Lovers
Split for markets and wine bars. Stari Grad and Jelsa for wineries and konobe. Brač for lamb and olive oil. Vis for seafood and viška pogača.
Tip. Without a car, stay near piers. With a car, confirm parking before booking.
Suggested Itineraries
Three Days: City and One Island
Day 1: Split old town, Marjan viewpoints, and a late swim.
Day 2: Trogir morning, Čiovo beach afternoon. Sunset back in Split.
Day 3: Bol and Zlatni Rat, or Hvar Town and Pakleni Islands.
Five Days: Coast, Island, and Canyon
Day 1: Split highlights and city beach.
Day 2: Trogir and Blue Lagoon by boat.
Day 3: Hvar Town, Fortica, and Pakleni coves.
Day 4: Omiš rafting or zipline. Evening in Split.
Day 5: Salona and Klis Fortress. Dinner on the Riva.
Seven Days: Add the Riviera
Day 1–2: Split and Trogir.
Day 3: Brač, Vidova Gora, and Zlatni Rat.
Day 4–5: Makarska Riviera beach time. Skywalk morning.
Day 6: Boat to Blue Cave if seas are calm. Explore Vis.
Day 7: Inland loop to Imotski. Return via coastal viewpoints.
Ten Days: Slow Island Time
Days 1–3: Split base with day trip to Trogir and Čiovo.
Days 4–6: Hvar. Include Stari Grad and the plain.
Days 7–8: Vis. Schedule Blue Cave early if conditions allow.
Days 9–10: Makarska Riviera. Skywalk and lazy swims.
Practical Tips
Book summer stays early for the best choice.
Morning ferries are often calmer and less crowded.
Carry cash for small kiosks and parking machines.
Pack reef‑safe sunscreen, a hat, and water shoes.
Respect sun exposure. Midday heat can be strong on stone streets.
Keep plans flexible for sea conditions. Boats may cancel for safety.
On island roads, drive slowly and watch for cyclists.
In heritage zones, roll bags quietly. Locals live there.
Responsible and Inclusive Travel
Use refillable bottles. Tap water is generally safe in towns.
Avoid single‑use plastics on boats and beaches.
Do not climb or sit on fragile ruins.
Follow marked trails on Biokovo and Marjan.
Choose licensed guides and skippers.
Ask before photographing people in villages and markets.
Many beaches have gentle entries suitable for families. Check local ramps and mats for accessibility improvements each season.
Budgeting and Trip Styles
City Base + Day Trips. Great for first‑timers. Lower transfer stress. Easy nightlife and dining.
Island Stays. Pick one island for depth. Add a second if you have a week or more. Avoid daily boat hops in peak heat.
Beach Holiday. Choose Makarska Riviera or Čiovo for doorstep swimming. Book sea‑view rooms early.
Nature Focus. Target Biokovo, Vidova Gora, and the Cetina. Add shoulder‑season dates for cooler hiking.
Food and Wine. Plan tastings on Hvar and Brač. Book dinners a day ahead in small towns.
Safety and Health
The sun is the main hazard. Hydrate and use shade.
The sea is generally calm. Check local flags and advice.
For canyoning or diving, use reputable operators.
Pharmacies are common in towns and resorts.
Plan Your Split‑Dalmatia Trip
Choose a base
Decide between Split, Trogir, an island, or the Riviera
Pick two hero experiences
Book those first and keep the rest flexible
Set one inland day
Salona and Klis or the Imotski lakes both work
Check ferry times
Look up schedules for your travel month and add buffer for sea conditions
Reserve key stays early
Secure hotels and apartments for summer and school holidays
FAQs
What are the UNESCO sites in the county?
Split’s Historical Complex with Diocletian’s Palace, the Historic City of Trogir, and the Stari Grad Plain on Hvar.
How do I get from Split to Hvar, Brač, or Vis?
Ferries and fast catamarans run year‑round to main ports. Summer adds more departures and routes. Check the day’s schedule before you go.
Is the Blue Cave part of Split‑Dalmatia County?
Yes. The cave is on Biševo near Vis. Tours depend on calm seas and safe conditions.
When is the best time to visit?
June and September balance warm seas and manageable crowds. July and August are lively and hot. Spring and autumn suit hiking and touring.
Which area is best for families?
Makarska Riviera and Čiovo have many family hotels and gentle beaches. Brač adds sandy Lovrečina. Split city beaches are also easy with kids.
Can I visit without a car?
Yes. Use buses, ferries, and organized day trips. For remote coves, rent a scooter or a boat with a skipper.
How long should I stay?
Three to five days suits a first visit. A full week allows an island stay and the Riviera. Ten days gives time for Vis and inland loops.
Will I need cash?
Cards are widely accepted. Carry some cash for small kiosks, beach rentals, and parking.
Is swimming safe?
Yes, in marked areas and calm weather. Follow local flags and advice. Wear water shoes on rocky shores.
What if my boat cancels?
Have a backup plan. Visit Salona and Klis, the Meštrović Gallery, or a sheltered beach. Move the tour to the next calm day.
How do I avoid crowds?
Start early. Swim late. Visit popular bays at off‑peak hours. Travel in shoulder months if you can.
Are there sandy beaches?
Yes. Bačvice and Firule in Split, Lovrečina on Brač, and several pockets on Čiovo. Most other beaches are pebbly.
Is the Biokovo Skywalk worth it?
Yes for views and the thrill. Go on a clear day and arrive early. Take a light jacket even in summer.
Can I do a day trip to multiple islands?
Yes by organized speedboat tours. The pace is fast. For depth, stick to one island per day.
What should I pack?
Light clothing, hat, swim shoes, a reusable bottle, and a small daypack. Add layers for mountain visits.
Final Notes for Planners
Keep logistics light. Choose a base near your interests. Book peak‑season stays early. Check sea conditions before island tours. Carry water and respect the sun. Leave time for slow walks and sunsets. That balance is the heart of Split‑Dalmatia.
Discover Split-Dalmatia county: Cities, Villages, Posts & Nature
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