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6 Incredible Day Trips from Split You Can’t Miss
Split is the ultimate base for adventure, with idyllic islands, cascading waterfalls, historic towns and unforgettable outdoor experiences all within easy reach. With so much waiting to be explored, we've created this handy guide to the best day trips from Split, packed with insider tips, local favourites and plenty of inspiration.
Having a Split decision on Split? Trust us, one read of this blog and you'll be packing your suitcase, throwing in your shorts and booking that flight before you can say, "Booked". The tricky part isn't deciding whether to go, it's narrowing down what to see once you're there. With so many amazing spots packed into one destination, you'll wish you had a few extra days.
From serene island escapes and scenic nature trails to history-filled adventures, your only challenge will be fitting it all into one holiday.
Interactive Island Map
Why is Split the Perfect Base for Day Trips?
One of the reasons Split is so popular with travellers is that it makes exploring Croatia incredibly easy. Sitting along the Dalmatian Coast, it's perfectly placed for discovering nearby islands, national parks and historic towns, all without straying too far from your villa paradise.
From hopping on a ferry to Hvar, Brač, Vis or Korčula to joining a speedboat tour or setting off on a scenic road trip, there are plenty of ways to explore. The best part? You can return to the same villa each evening, making Split an ideal base for seeing more of Croatia without constantly moving between accommodations.
The Best Day Trips From Split, Croatia
1. Trogir
Located just 27 kilometres from Split, Trogir is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from the city. Set across a small island between the mainland and Čiovo, its UNESCO-listed Old Town is packed with historic charm. If your Pinterest boards are filled with fairytale streets, stone archways and postcard-worthy corners, this one's definitely for you.
History lovers can spend hours exploring the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, Kamerlengo Fortress and the beautifully preserved medieval streets that weave through the town.
Once you've ticked off the sights, make your way to the waterfront promenade, where a collection of cafés and restaurants provide the perfect setting for a leisurely lunch by the sea.
Easily accessible by public transport or car, Trogir is one of the best day trips from Split, serving up all the whimsical charm, character-filled streets and storybook scenery you could hope for.
2. Hvar Island
If you haven't heard of this one... where have you been? One of the most popular day trips from Split, Hvar Island is loved for its laid-back Mediterranean charm. Better yet, it's a quick and easy day trip, with ferries and catamarans whisking you from Split to the island in under an hour.
Oozing architectural history, you'll find Renaissance squares, centuries-old cathedrals and beautiful Venetian architecture at every turn. It's a real feast for the eyes.
Even if historic buildings aren't typically your thing, the island's beaches are well worth a visit. Think crystal-clear waters, golden sands and plenty of spots to slow down and soak up the sunshine.
If you're after a little more adventure and want to make the most of your time on Hvar, set sail on a boat tour around the island's coastline. The nearby Pakleni Islands are a real highlight, home to secluded coves, crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkelling spots and some of the area's most spectacular scenery.
3. Krka National Park
We know the words "National Park" are enough to make your ears prick up, and we're not just speaking for ourselves! Just 1.5 hours from Split, Krka National Park is the perfect excuse to lace up your hiking boots and get out into nature. Wander along wooden boardwalks that weave through lush greenery, past glistening lakes, charming old mills and a diverse range of wildlife.
To reach this breathtaking slice of paradise, we'd recommend hiring a car or booking a guided tour to make getting there as easy as possible.
Quick Fact
Top tip: Visit in the morning to beat the peak crowds, especially during the busy summer months.
4. Brač Island
Back to Brač. Just 50 minutes by ferry from Split, this island is home to the iconic Zlatni Rat. And no, despite the name, it's not some famous Croatian rat. It's one of Croatia's most beautiful beaches, known as the "Golden Horn" and famous for its distinctive shape, which subtly shifts with the wind and sea currents.
Whether you're looking to slow down the pace and soak up the peaceful atmosphere Brač offers, or spend your days wandering authentic villages, admiring traditional stone architecture and centuries-old olive groves, Brač offers a glimpse into a more laid-back lifestyle of Dalmatian life.
Or if cramming in every sight is more your style, the hiking trails in this spectacular island are mesmerising, with elevated viewpoints that take you to sweeping views of the Adriatic coastline.
Worth the incline walk… we’re sure!
5. Vis Island
An underrated gem and a bit of an inside scoop, Vis is a more remote and unspoilt island compared to the others, but it's still one of the best day trips from Split. Best reached by catamaran or speedboat, the adventure really starts the moment you hop on board.
Whether you decide to dine in Vis Town for a true taste of Croatian cuisine or make the most of the island's crystal-clear waters, there's plenty to discover.
A trip to the famous Blue Cave (Modra Špilja) on the nearby island of Biševo is a must, with its glowing blue waters making it one of Croatia's most extraordinary natural attractions.
For those looking to get even closer to the scenery, swimming and snorkelling in the surrounding waters is an unforgettable experience. Make a full day of island hopping, as many boat tours to Vis also include stops at the Green Cave and Stiniva Cove, creating one of the most memorable day trips you can take from Split.
To put it simply, if island touring, crystal-clear waters and uncovering lesser-known spots you can go home and brag about are your thing, Vis is the place to be.
6. Biokovo Nature Park
Bravo to Biokovo Nature Park, a breathtaking stretch of natural beauty perched above the Makarska Riviera. This dramatic mountain landscape makes for an unforgettable day trip from Split and is easily reached by car.
The array of hiking trails ranges from gentle nature walks to more challenging summit routes, meaning there's a path for every kind of hiker to enjoy.
You'll stroll past towering mountain scenery, coastal viewpoints and flourishing greenery at every turn. It's a breath of fresh air, quite literally, and the perfect place to unwind in nature while admiring the diverse landscapes Croatia has to offer.
Quick Fact
Top tip: The Skywalk Biokovo is well worth a visit. Step out onto the glass-floored viewing platform and take in breathtaking views across the Adriatic Sea and the islands below.
One of the best day trips you can take from Split, if you ask us!
Planning the Perfect Day Trip From Split
Choosing the Right Day Trip for You
Easy escapes: Trogir – Perfect for history lovers, waterfront lunches and a relaxed day exploring one of Croatia's most charming UNESCO-listed towns.
Island lovers: Hvar and Brač – Think beach-hopping, crystal-clear waters and a taste of laid-back Dalmatian island life.
Nature explorers: Krka National Park and Biokovo Nature Park – From cascading waterfalls to dramatic mountain scenery, these destinations showcase Croatia's wild side.
Adventure seekers: Vis – A full-day island adventure filled with boat trips, hidden coves, sea caves and some of the Adriatic's clearest waters.
Our Top Tips for Day Trips from Split
- Book ferry and catamaran tickets in advance during the peak summer season to secure your preferred departure times.
- Organised boat and speedboat tours from Split Harbour typically depart early in the morning, allowing you to make the most of your time at each destination.
- Hiring a car offers greater flexibility for visiting national parks and inland destinations that aren't accessible by ferry.
- Where travel times allow, combine two nearby destinations into one itinerary, such as Trogir and a beach stop on Brač.
- Staying in a luxury villa near Split Harbour makes early morning departures and late evening returns from day trips much more convenient.
May, June and September are among the best times for day trips, offering warm weather, fewer crowds and ideal conditions for swimming, sightseeing and outdoor adventures.
Make Split Your Starting Point
However you want your Croatia days to feel, it's safe to say Split is the ideal base for exploring this exquisite stretch of coastline. From busy days where your step count is hitting 10-15k and your camera roll is jam-packed with photos of landmarks and panoramic views, to a more relaxed rhythm of lie-ins, pool mornings that drift into lazy afternoons, and alfresco dining at your Split villa when you're too tired to even think about what's in your wardrobe.
Are you sold yet? Discover even more beyond Split with our ’10 things to do in Croatia’ blog
Final Thoughts: Which Turkey Beach Will You Choose?
Turkey’s coastline has something for every kind of beach lover.
You can float in Ölüdeniz’s calm lagoon, walk beside Patara’s huge dunes or combine ancient history with a swim at Phaselis. There are family-friendly shores, remote coves and lively resort beaches.
Many of these coastal highlights sit within reach of our Dalaman villas. You can find more ideas in our guide to the best beaches in Dalaman.
Further west, our Bodrum villas place you close to more beautiful Turkey beaches, including Yahşi and Bitez.
Your next beach day is waiting. All that’s left is choosing where to lay your towel.
Split Day Trips FAQs
One of the best day trips from Split is a visit to Hvar. Think waterfront restaurants, hidden coves and plenty of time to soak up that laid-back island atmosphere. It's easy to reach by ferry and offers the perfect mix of sightseeing, swimming and great food.
It depends on what you're looking for. Hvar is ideal for lively harbour scenes, Brač is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, while Vis is perfect for those wanting crystal-clear waters and a slower pace. They're all among the best day trips from Split.
Train options from Split are limited, but you can travel inland to destinations such as Zagreb. For most visitors, ferries and organised tours are the easiest way to enjoy day trips from Split Croatia, especially if you're heading to the islands or national parks.
Three to four days is enough to explore Split's historic Old Town, enjoy the beaches and squeeze in a few day trips from Split. If you want to experience nearby islands, Krka National Park or coastal towns at a more relaxed pace, a week is even better.
Yes, Krka National Park is one of the easiest and most popular day trips from Split. Just over an hour away, it's known for its waterfalls, walking trails and beautiful scenery, making it a great choice if you're short on time.
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Meet the Author
Olivia B
Travel is truly where I feel most alive, whether I’m hiking up a mountain for insane views, tapas hopping in charming Spanish towns or simply just relaxing on a lounger, being away and getting to know the different cultures never gets old. Still so many more countries and destinations to visit but I can definitely help plan your next action-packed itinerary.