5 Days in Split: A Nature and History Focused Itinerary
Split gives you the perfect mix of history, Roman ruins, medieval fortresses and stunning nature nearby. Within a short drive, you can see waterfalls, ancient towns and forested hills.
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This itinerary is for you if you enjoy walking, viewpoints and real history. If you like Roman ruins, old stone streets and quiet nature trails, you’ll enjoy this plan.
It’s ideal if you don’t want to rush. The days are full but not packed from morning to night. There’s time to explore properly, stop for photos and just take it in.
It also suits travellers who are happy to hire a car for a few days. Some of the best places around Split are outside the city, and they are worth the short drives.
If you’re planning a bigger Croatia trip, read our full Croatia travel guide where we cover routes, planning tips and the best places to visit across the country.
Where to Stay in Split
We stayed at Hotel Ambasador, which is right by the sea. The location is perfect for walking to the old town and the Riva promenade. Rooms are comfortable and breakfast is convenient before starting your day.
Other areas for accommodation include:
Split Old Town - for easy walking to major sights
Near Split ferry port - good if you plan island trips
Suburbs or near the airport - for easier parking if you’re driving
Check out the different accommodation options here.
Day 1 - Explore Split’s Old Town
Your first day is all about settling in and getting a feel for Split.
A great way to start is with the hop-on-hop-off bus. It gives you a quick overview of the city and shows you the main streets, squares, and viewpoints. The ticket usually includes a [guided walking tour of the Old Town, so you can hop off at Diocletian’s Palace and explore with some context.
If you don't want to go on the hop-on-hop-off bus, you can start with Diocletian's Palace. This isn’t just one building - it’s the heart of the old town. Shops, homes and cafés all sit inside these Roman walls. Take your time walking through the gates, narrow alleys, and hidden courtyards.
Don’t miss the Gregory of Nin Statue, just outside the palace. Locals say rubbing the big toe brings good luck, and it’s a fun photo opportunity.
If you can, climb the bell tower at Cathedral of Saint Domnius. The views over the terracotta rooftops are worth it.
Later, head to the Riva promenade. It’s flat, lively and perfect for a relaxed evening stroll. Stop for a coffee or a snack and watch the world go by.
Photo tip: Capture the palace gates, the cathedral tower, the Gregory of Nin statue and the sunset along the Riva.
Time needed: Half to full day
Getting around: Walkable, with optional bus for a city overview
Day 2 - Trogir and Primošten
Today mixes UNESCO history with coastal views.
Start the day with a 30-40 minute drive to Trogir. This small town is a UNESCO World Heritage site and perfect for a relaxed morning. Spend the major part of the day exploring Trogir. Wander the narrow stone streets, visit St. Lawrence Cathedral and stop at the harbour to watch the boats. There are plenty of cafés and small shops where you can pause for coffee or a snack.
Photo tip: Capture the cathedral’s intricate stonework, Trogir’s harbour and the colourful streets.
Once you’ve explored Trogir, drive about 45 minutes to Primošten. The main attraction is the Our Lady of Loreto Statue. Walk up to the statue and enjoy the panoramic views over the Adriatic. It’s peaceful and quiet compared to busy Split. Spend some time here before heading back to Split.
Photo tip: Capture the statue with the coastline in the background.
Time needed: Full day
Transport: Car recommended
Day 3 - Klis Fortress & Salona
This is your history day. And it’s a good one.
Start at Klis Fortress, about 20 minutes from Split. It sits high above the city and the views are unreal. You can see Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the islands in the distance. It’s one of the best viewpoints in the area.
Klis dates back over 2,000 years and was an important stronghold during Roman, medieval and Ottoman times. It played a key role in defending the region from Ottoman invasions. As you walk through the stone walls and narrow passages, you really feel that history.
And yes, this is where the Game of Thrones connection comes in. If you watched the show, you’ll recognise parts of the fortress straight away. Even if you didn’t, it’s still worth visiting for the views alone.
Next, head to Salona, just 10 minutes away.
Salona was once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Today, it’s a large open-air archaeological site. You can walk among Roman ruins, see the amphitheatre, early Christian basilicas, city walls and ancient tombs. It’s much quieter than Split’s Old Town, which makes it feel more authentic.
Give yourself about 1 to 2 hours here depending on how interested you are in Roman history.
This day works well because everything is close to Split. It’s easy, relaxed and packed with history without needing a full-day drive.
Photo tip: Wide-angle shots from Klis Fortress and close-ups of Roman stonework at Salona.
Time needed: 4 to 6 hours
Tip: Wear proper walking shoes
Day 4 - Krka National Park
Today is all about waterfalls and nature.
Drive about 1.5 hours from Split to Krka National Park. The park is famous for its waterfalls, walking trails and lush scenery. The main highlight is Skradinski Buk, a wide, multi-tiered waterfall connected by wooden boardwalks. You can walk close to the falls and enjoy the views - the spray makes for a refreshing atmosphere, especially in summer.
The park is well organised with marked circular trails, making it easy to navigate. You can take your time exploring smaller waterfalls, bridges and walking paths. Boat trips are also available to explore quieter areas of the park and nearby waterfalls.
Photo tip: Capture the waterfalls from boardwalks, reflections in the water and shots of the surrounding forest. Early morning light works best.
Travel tip: Arrive early, especially in summer, to avoid crowds. Bring comfortable shoes and water.
Time needed: Full day
Tip: Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes; a light rain jacket can help near the falls
Day 5 - Marjan Hill or Plitvice Lakes Trip
Your final day in Split can be relaxed or adventurous, depending on what you want to see.
Start with Marjan Hill, a green, peaceful area just outside the city centre. Walk the Marjan Hill forest trails, visit small chapels and stop at viewpoints with lovely views over Split and the sea.
Photo tip: Morning light over Split, or panoramic sea views from the hilltop.
Alternatively, you have the option of visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park. It’s far from Split - around 3 hours each way - so it’s a long day if you drive directly. We included it because it’s one of Croatia’s most stunning natural highlights.
For a more comfortable visit, we planned and stayed overnight near Plitvice. This allowed us to start early and enter the park as soon as it opens, giving a full day to explore the waterfalls and trails without rushing.
At Plitvice, you can:
- Walk the main trails and admire the layered waterfalls
- Use the boardwalks over the turquoise lakes
- Enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings
Ultimately, this itinerary is flexible. You can choose which parts suit your interests: some may prefer a full day at Marjan Hill and Split, while others may want to include Plitvice with an overnight stay nearby.
Time needed: Half day in Split; full day if doing Plitvice
Transport: Walking in Split; car needed for Plitvice trip
Why This Itinerary Works
This 5-day itinerary gives you a balanced mix of history, culture and nature. You explore Roman ruins, medieval fortresses, UNESCO towns, waterfalls and forest trails.
The days are full but not rushed, with reasonable driving times and plenty of photo opportunities. There’s flexibility built in: you can skip long drives or add extra time at sites you love.
It’s ideal for you if you enjoy walking, sightseeing and nature, and want a real feel for Split and the surrounding Dalmatian region.
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