Family Activities in Split, Croatia
January 3, 2024
The sun-soaked city of Split in Croatia is an excellent holiday destination for families with diverse interests, from lovely beaches to scenic spots, and historical sites like Diocletian’s Palace and Kris Fortress to explore. Families who favour outdoor adventures can seamlessly transition from lazy days on the beach to invigorating hikes along nature trails or even embark on a boat cruise to the alluring Adriatic islands just a stone’s throw away. Even the youngest travellers are likely to feel excited wandering the cobbled streets of an ancient Roman palace. So whether you have thrill-seeking teens or little ones who love to frolic in the shallow sea, Split is a destination that appeals to all ages. Keep reading to discover our favourite family activities in Split.
Diocletian’s Palace
Begin your family adventure by stepping back in time at Diocletian’s Palace. With its fairytale setting, it’s a great place for kids to explore and spark their imagination. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient palace complex sits in the centre of the Old Town and provides a fascinating glimpse into Roman history (dating back to the 3rd century), with its well-preserved architecture and ancient ruins. Its immense walls surround a 10-acre tangle of temple ruins, museums, hotels, markets, coffee shops, modern boutiques and even an ancient cathedral, all interlaced with pedestrian-only cobblestone streets. Children will love exploring the hidden corners and wandering through its labyrinthine alleys. Young fans of Game of Thrones will be eager to visit the TV show’s famous filming sites within the palace. The awe-inspiring Gregorius of Nin statue is a good place to visit too – it’s said if you rub the statue’s big toe it will bring good luck!
Klis Fortress
Sitting on a hilltop about 5 km outside of Split, Klis Fortress is well worth a visit with the family. Known for its breathtaking views over Split and the Adriatic Sea, the fortress was also a film location for scenes in the Game of Thrones TV series. There’s a small fee to enter, and once inside visitors are free to wander the fortress grounds. Stop by the small museum to see centuries-old weaponry and soldiers’ uniforms. You can even try your hand at archery here!
Marjan Hill Park
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by heading to Marjan Hill Park. This lush oasis offers a serene environment for family picnics, leisurely strolls, and panoramic views of Split. With playgrounds scattered throughout the park, children can let loose while parents enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them. There’s even a small zoo with donkeys, ponies, and sheep to visit.
To reach Marjan Park, climb the stairs to the Vidilica Café from the Varos neighbourhood, just west of the Riva promenade, or catch a taxi to the northern entrance.
Bacvice Beach
For a classic family beach day, Bacvice Beach is the perfect destination. Its shallow, turquoise waters are ideal for little swimmers, and the sandy shores provide the perfect canvas for sandcastle building. Engage in water sports, relax under the sun, and relish the vibrant atmosphere of this popular family-friendly beach, which can be reached within minutes from the city centre.
Discover more of the best beaches in Split in our blog.
Hop on a Boat
Exploring the islands and seascapes of the Adriatic coast is sure to be a family highlight of any visit to Split. Several islands including Brač, Hvar, Bisevo and Vis each offer their own unique charm and beauty, with some places only accessible by boat. A popular boat trip with Split Boat Trips travels to Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, a magical place with its otherworldly light reflections, or sail to the quieter Hvar Island to explore its picturesque village.
Plitvice Lakes
For a full-day adventure, we recommend taking a trip to the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in inland Croatia. Known as Croatia’s largest national park, covering almost 30,000 hectares, it’s worth the 2 hour drive to marvel at its turquoise-blue waterfalls. You can hire your own car or join a guided tour. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and clothes as you’ll be doing a lot of walking as you explore the chain of 16 terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon.
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