1. Marjan
A 178 m high hill, set at the small peninsula, Marjan Hill is locals’ favorite recreational spot close to the city center. It is a green oasis with numerous footpaths and jogging trails, and it has always been a popular place for walking, jogging, biking... You name it. Be sure to enjoy the spectacular view, best observed from the Vidilica café perched on the hilltop – definitely a climb worthwhile. When hiking around Marjan, don't forget to explore numerous medieval churches and chapels scattered throughout the area.
2. Sustipan (Sustipanski put)
Sustipan is a little peninsula that closes off the port of Split from the west, just past the ACI Marina. There's a historical significance to the place – nowadays it is a park, but it was once the most beautiful cemetery on the Adriatic and a refuge of the last Croatian king. Locals love to visit it and it is one of the favourite places to go for a walk or attend some of the events that take place in this little piece of green heaven.
3. Bačvice beach
It is the most famous beach in town, and probably in all of Croatia. It is located in the heart of the city, only one km away from the center of Split. Throughout the entire year you can see the most courageous ones – swimming and enjoying a game of picigin - the favorite (summer) sport in Split. (since 2005 Bačvice hosts the world championship in picigin). You can also build sand castles, of course. And when you get tired – do not worry - there are many bars, restaurants and pastry shops nearby.
4. Diocletian's Palace
It is an ancient palace built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian and today it forms about half the old town of Split. It is referred to as a "palace" because of its intended use as the retirement residence of Diocletian, but it is massive and more resembles a large fortress. Diocletian's Palace is one of the best preserved monuments of the Roman architecture in the world. There are around 220 buildings within the palace boundaries, home to about 3000 people. The narrow streets hide passageways and courtyards, some deserted and wrapped in silence, others vibrant with music from bars and cafes.
5. Split City Museum
Located in a 15th century Gothic palace, the museum is small and you’ll get through it quickly. Small in size, but it gives a good overview of town’s history and its development through the times. Most of the captions are in Croatian, but wall panels in a variety of languages provide a historical framework for the various displays.
6. Archaeological Museum of Split
This is the oldest museum in Croatia and it displays artifacts from Greek, Roman, early-Christian, medieval and prehistoric times. If you're into history and seeing old ruins and artifacts, don't miss it. It's location is only 15 min walk from the old town.
7. Matejuška
Just a few steps away from the touristy Riva, there is a small cove known as Matejuška, where the fishermen have kept their boats for centuries. The boats are still there today, and so are the groups of young people, locals and tourists, who meet there in the evenings, drink and sing and talk the night away. There is a store called Mali Dućan just opposite Matejuška, where you can get cheap drinks and
snacks - an ideal starting point for any night out, a place to get to know new people and yourself a little better, all while the fishermen are cleaning their nets and preparing for the next day out at the sea. If you weren't drinking beer at Matejuška in the evening, you just don't know the wonders of Split.
8. Ethnographic Museum of Split
If you're into making an in-depth examination of Croatia's cultural tradition, particularly that of the Dalmatian Coast, then this is the place for you. The museum displays pottery, traditional clothing, furniture, jewelry and other artifacts from the life of Split inhabitants throughout the history. It is located in the old town - in a lovely historic renaissance palazzo within the walls of Diocletian’s palace.
9. Poljud (8 Mediteranskih Igara 2)
For a good taste of Split's sport history, visit Poljud stadium. Here you can get to know a rich history of the legendary football club Hajduk, starting with its foundation in Prague, all the way to a spectacular centennial celebration. Many legendary players and coaches, trophies, iconic matches and tours, and plenty of emotional and interesting stories will make this visit memorable. If you are really interested in rejoicing with the locals – go and see a game!
10. Split market (Ul. Stari Pazar)
Set beside the Silver Gate entry to the Roman Palace, and the main road leading down to the bus station, this place is a local institution and practically a 24-hour operation (only ten minutes walk from the bus station, and five minutes from the Riva). The main attraction of the market is the fresh and organic fruit and vegetables, with its vast array of colours and flavours, all sold by old and experienced vendors, mainly farmers who bring their own produce to sell. Vendors are friendly and most of them will be happy to chat and offer you to try some of their tasty fruits and vegetables for free.