Visiting Klis Fortress near Split - A Complete Guide

During our holiday in Croatia, we stayed in Split (at Hotel Ambasador). One of the nearby places we visited was Klis Fortress. 

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What is Klis Fortress and where is it located? 

Klis Fortress (Tvrđava Klis) is a stone fortress set on a hill above the village of Klis, which is considered a suburb of the city of Split . It has been used for many centuries as a fortress because of its strong position. Over time, it was held by different rulers, including the Illyrians, Romans and later by the Ottomans and Venetians. You can still see parts of the old walls and walk through the open spaces inside the fortress.

Klis Fortress became well known to many because it was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. I have not watched the show and I am not a fan, so that was not the reason for my visit. I went mainly for its history and the stunning views of Split and the sea. It is a calm place to walk around and take your time. The wide open views from the top are the real highlight.

 

How far is Klis Fortress from Split?

Klis Fortress is not far from Split at all. It is around 12 km from the city, which takes about 15 to 30 minutes by car depending on traffic. Even by bus, the journey is quite simple and does not take too long. This short travel distance makes it an easy day trip from Split. You do not need to plan a full day or make a long journey. You can visit the fortress in the morning or afternoon and still have plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in Split.

How do you get to Klis Fortress from Split?

There are a few easy ways to get to Klis Fortress from Split. If you are driving, it takes about 15-30 minutes. The route is straightforward, and there is parking near the fortress, though spaces can be limited in busy months.

You can also take a local bus from Split. The buses run fairly often and the journey is short. This is a good option if you don’t want to drive. It drops you close to the village, and from there it is a short walk up to the fortress.

A taxi or private transfer is another simple choice. It saves time and effort, especially if you are not familiar with the area. It can also work well if you are visiting in a small group and can share the cost.

There are also organised tours from Split, often half-day tours. Many of these include a guide who explains the history and key points as you walk around. Some tours also link the trip with other nearby spots, such as the olive museum at Stella Croatica and a 4D experience. These tours are easy to book through well-known platforms like GetYourGuide. For e.g. they have a combined tour to Klis Fortress, Salona, Stella Croatica and Vranjaca Cave which is useful if you prefer something already planned for you.

What are the opening hours and ticket prices for Klis Fortress?

Klis Fortress is open throughout the year, but the opening times can vary between seasons. In the warmer months, the fortress usually stays open for longer, while in winter the closing time is earlier. It is best to check the official website before your visit so you know the hours for the day you plan to go. This helps you avoid turning up too late or rushing your visit.

The ticket price is different for adults, children and sometimes groups. You can buy tickets directly at the entrance, and the process is very simple. If you prefer, you can also look at buying tickets online through the official website. This can be handy during busy seasons or if you are planning your day in advance.

The entry ticket includes:

• a visit to the Interpretation Centre at Mejdan Square
• a visit to the Klis Fortress
• a visit to Etno agro park Stella Croatica
• and a visit to the Olive museum

Ticket prices when we visited (in late 2025) were 12€ for adults and 4€ for children (up to 15 years old).

And if you opt for a guided tour, then your tickets will be arranged by the tour operator.

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Was Klis Fortress used in Game of Thrones?

Klis Fortress was used as a filming location for the city of Meereen in Game of Thrones. Certain courtyards and terraces were used for scenes where Daenerys was shown ruling and addressing the crowds. The stone walls and high viewpoints worked well for the show because they look dramatic and ancient. Many visitors come here mainly to see these spots and to take photos in the same places.

I am not a Game of Thrones fan and have not watched the show. But several people on our guided tour were very excited about it. The guide made sure to point out all the important filming locations. It was quite interesting to watch the fans recognise scenes and pose for photos. Even though I did not know the references, I could see why the setting was chosen. The space has a strong and impressive feel.

If you are a fan, you will find it easy to explore the filming areas. Most of them are within the main courtyard and walkways. A guided tour can help, as the guide can tell you exactly which scene was shot where. If you are visiting on your own, there are some small signs and boards, but a guide makes it clearer. Either way, the views and the sense of history stand out more than anything else.

How difficult is the walk up to Klis Fortress?

The walk up to Klis Fortress is not very long, but it can feel a little steep in places. The paths are uneven & there are stone steps inside the fortress grounds. Good shoes help, as some of the stones can be smooth and a bit slippery, especially if it has rained. It is not a hard walk, but it is not completely flat either. Once you are inside, you will find yourself walking up and down different levels as you explore.

For visitors with mobility issues, it may be more challenging. The site has many steps, uneven ground & some narrow paths. There are no lifts or ramps for most areas and not all parts of the fortress can be reached if you use a wheelchair or need steady, level ground. If you take your time and walk slowly, it can be manageable, but it is worth knowing that the terrain is old and not adapted for full accessibility. The views are beautiful, though, so even a shorter visit to the easier areas can still be enjoyable.

Is there parking at Klis Fortress?

There is a small parking area close to the entrance of Klis Fortress. It is very handy if you are driving, but the number of spaces is limited. 

When we visited, the parking was already quite busy. Our tour bus dropped us off near the entrance and then went to park elsewhere, returning only when it was time for us to leave. 

If you are visiting in the summer months, it is best to arrive earlier in the day to avoid the busiest times. If the main parking area is full, you may need to park in the village below and walk up, so it helps to allow a little extra time.

Are there guided tours or combo tickets available?

There are guided tours available from Split that include transport and a tour of Klis Fortress and other places. We joined one of these (combined) tours, and it worked well because the guide explained the history and pointed out key areas inside the fortress. It also saved us the effort of working out transport and parking ourselves. These tours are usually half-day trips, so they fit easily into most travel plans.

The entrance ticket to Klis Fortress is actually a combo ticket. It also includes entry to the Olive Museum at Stella Croatica, which is only a short drive away. This is a nice bonus, as you can learn a little about local olive oil production and taste a few samples if you wish. Many tours include both stops in one trip, making the day feel complete without being rushed.

How long do you need to visit Klis Fortress?

You do not need a full day to visit Klis Fortress. A quick visit can be done in about 45 minutes to an hour. This gives you enough time to walk through the main areas and enjoy the views. If you are on a tight schedule or simply passing through, you can still get a good feel for the place in a short time.

If you want to explore more slowly, take photos and look at the small details, then plan for around 1.5 to 2 hours. The views over Split and the mountains are lovely, and it is nice to pause and take them in. The site is spread out across different levels, so allowing a little extra time means you can walk at your own pace without rushing.

When is the best time to visit Klis Fortress?

The best time of year to visit Klis Fortress is during spring or autumn. The weather is mild, the sky is often clear & the views are lovely. Summer can be very hot and bright on the hilltop, as there is not much shade. Winter is quieter but can feel cold and windy. So if you have the choice, the shoulder seasons are the most comfortable.

The best time of day is either early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This helps you avoid both the strongest sun and the busier hours. We found that arriving earlier (we reached there around 9:30 am) made the experience calmer and more pleasant. It also means the light is softer, which makes the views and photos look better.

What facilities are available at Klis Fortress?

Facilities at Klis Fortress are quite basic. There are toilets available for visitors, but these are simple. There is no proper café or food service inside, so it is best to bring your own water and snacks, especially on warm days. Near the parking area at the base, there are a few small shops and stalls where you can buy drinks, snacks or souvenirs.

Can you take photos or fly a drone at Klis Fortress?

Photography inside the fortress is allowed. However, I am not very sure about drone usage. With it being a historical site, there possibly may be restrictions on drone usage. I think, it’s advisable to check local aviation rules and fortress policies before flying a drone. You can check with the team at the ticket office for the latest drone usage policies.

 

Is Klis Fortress suitable for children and pets?

Klis Fortress can be a fun visit for families, but the paths and steps can be steep, so keep an eye on young children. Dogs are generally allowed, but they should be kept on a lead at all times and supervised carefully. It is a good idea to bring water, wear comfortable shoes and take your time walking around. Even a shorter visit to the easier areas can be enjoyable for both children and pets.

 

Top tips for visiting Klis Fortress

• Wear comfortable shoes, as paths and steps are uneven.
• Carry water, especially in warm months, and bring sun protection like a hat or sunscreen.
• There are no cafes/restaurants inside, so bring your own snacks.
• Take your time walking around and watch your step on the stone surfaces.
• Avoid visiting in the middle of the day during summer if you want to escape the heat. Early morning or late afternoon is better.
• Arrive early in busy months to find parking and avoid crowds.
• Bring a camera or phone for photos - the views are the main highlight.
• Keep dogs on a lead and supervise children carefully.
• Consider a guided tour if you want more context about the history and key areas.

What else can you see near Klis Fortress?

Klis Fortress is well placed for a day trip from Split, and there are several nearby attractions worth visiting. 

The ancient Roman ruins of Salona are just a short drive away and offer a glimpse into the region’s past. You can easily spend an hour or two exploring the remains of the amphitheatre, temples, and old streets before heading back to Split or on to your next stop.

Another option is to combine your visit with the historic town of Trogir. It is a little further away, but still manageable as part of a day trip. Trogir has charming streets, a lovely harbour, and several small cafés where you can stop for a break. 

Visiting Klis Fortress first and then heading to Salona or Trogir makes for a full, interesting day without long travel times.