There’s so much to do and see in Split, Croatia. Even though our trip doesn’t always leave us enough time to check off our entire bucket list in one fell swoop, it’s fun to see all of the possibilities.
No matter what you’re interested in, Croatia definitely has something for everyone from the Game of Thrones obsessed to the adrenaline junky, and everyone in between!
Check out our Croatia trips and join us for an epic adventure during your semester abroad!
1. Visit the Game of Thrones Museum
Location: Bosanska ul. 9, 21000, Split, Croatia
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-10PM, Sun 9am-Noon
2. Scavenger Hunt to Find the Locations Where Game of Thrones Filmed
Game of Thrones has shot scenes all across the globe in order to bring Westeros to life.
Northern Ireland & Iceland are home to the North while Morocco, Spain, & Malta stood in as the basis for countless other Westeros locations.
But, since we’re talking about Croatia, let’s look at what parts of the iconic HBO show were inspired by the Croatian landscapes and architecture.
- Dubrovnik was filmed as the starting point of King’s Landing
- Sibenik was filmed for Braavos
- Split is the home of much of Daenerys’s storyline. Her throne room is located in Diocletian’s Palace, an emperor from the 3rd century, and the dungeons of his palace are where she kept her dragons.
- Klis Fortress, 20 minutes north of Split, is Mereen where Dany answered “injustice with justice” by nailing the slavers to the crosses in Season 4
- Krka National park was used as many of the landscapes of the West.
3. Wander around Old Town and the Tiny Marble Cobblestone Streets
4. Rub the Golden Toe of Grgur Niaski or “Gregory of Nin”
A bishop in medieval Croatia, Gregory asked the Catholic Church to introduce the Croatian language into religious services in 926 AD.
When the church remained adamant that all services would continue in Latin, he defied their verdict.
Today, he is known as the defender of Croatian culture and language, and his 28-foot statue is a famous tourist attraction.
It is said that if you rub his big toe, you’ll be granted a wish.
5. Climb the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius (Katedrala Svetog Duje) for 360 Degree Views
Considered the oldest Catholic Cathedral in the world that remains in use, Saint Domnius is the seat of the Archdiocese of Split-Makarska.
The bell tower was constructed in 1100 AD, and is a fairly easy climb well worth the incredible views of Split below.
6. Walk the Riva
Bursting with cafes and restaurants, the Riva is a pedestrian paradise.
You might stumble upon live music or even a pickup game of basketball or soccer, or simply watch as the boats come in and out of the harbor.
7. Cruise Islands like it’s Yacht Week
Join us on our private Island Hopping Cruise to visit the Blue Lagoon with stunning crystal clear waters then as we hop over to Okrug, another beach where you can find #8.
8. Get your American Ninja Warrior on at a Blow-Up Water Park
If you’ve ever wanted to try your hand at climbing, swinging, and running up obstacles American Ninja Warrior style, now’s your chance.
The inflatable water park we visit on our Island Hopping tour is a must-do, even just to jump in the water and cool off.
9. Visit the Ivan Mestrovic Art Museum
Location: Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 46, 21000, Split, Croatia
Hours: 9am-7pm Tuesday-Sunday (Closed Mondays)
10. Hike to the Top of Marjan
Marjan Hill is a lovely hike as you wander upwards through a dense pine forest. At the top, you’ll find spectacular views of the city and the sea.
11. Visit the Split Green & Fish Market
Do as the locals do and shop for fresh fish. If you’re a foodie or feeling adventurous, make sure you try the sardines and anchovies!
12. Take a Photo at the Split Sign
13. Visit all Four Gates of Diocletian’s Palace
14. Find the City Clock
15. Head to Bacvice Beach and Watch a Game of Picigin
The most famous beach in Split, this is where locals congregate to play Picigin. The game was invented and perfected here, played in the shallow water on the shore.
Picigin is a non-competitive sport without opposing sides or points, nor winners or losers. The main objective is essentially to keep a small ball from touching the water for as long as possible.
Experienced players will whip out all sorts of entertaining acrobatics in order to keep the ball in the air.
16. Zipline over Cetina Canyon
Feel the wind on your face as your zoom down a zipline over the stunning Cetina Canyon.
With towering rock faces, turquoise water below, and a lush forest all around you, it’s the perfect combination of adrenaline and zen in nature.
17. White Water Raft Down Centina River
Along with a certified professional rafting guide, spend 3-4 hours winding your way through fields, cliffs, rapids, waterfalls, wild vegetation, and canyon views.
Take a waterproof camera with you for action-packed shots or to take in the stunning scenery.
18. Taste the Typical Dalmatian Dishes
The dishes are numerous, but our favorites are Pasticada with Potato Dumplings, a beef stew that falls right off the fork. It’s a house specialty at Buffet Fife. Since you’re in a seaside town, don’t be afraid to try all the seafood you can get your hands on.
Split is famous for black risotto, or crni rizot, with squid, as well as scampi and other fresh grilled fish or salted anchovies.
For dessert, try Fritule, deep-fried dough balls often topped with chocolate or caramel, or served with powdered sugar while still warm.
19. Visit Some Split Bars & Have Croatian Wine!
There are so many to choose from, but we often find ourselves at the main 3 below:
- The Tower Pub Crawl
- Sanctuary
- Charlie’s Backpacker Bar
- So. Many. More!
20. See the Waterfalls at Krka National Park!
Ready to check a few things off your list? Join us on one of our trips to Croatia!
