With its captivating blend of ancient wonders, outdoor adventures, and warm hospitality, Split offers a plethora of opportunities for memorable family bonding. This comprehensive guide to Split with kids unveils the best things to do, places to stay, and itineraries to craft an unforgettable Croatia family vacation.
Why Visit Split With Kids
- History Comes Alive: Immerse yourselves in Roman history at Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Kids will be captivated by the grand halls, courtyards, and underground chambers.
- Island Hopping Adventures: Take a boat trip to nearby islands like Brač and Hvar. Explore hidden coves, pristine beaches, and charming villages, all within easy reach of Split.
- Family-Friendly Activities: From kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding to exploring Marjan Forest, there are plenty of outdoor activities to keep kids entertained.
- Delicious Food Scene: Indulge in fresh seafood dishes, local cheeses, and homemade pasta. The abundance of cafes and restaurants with outdoor seating makes dining with kids a breeze.
- Safe and Welcoming: Croatia is known for its hospitality, and Split is no exception. The locals are friendly and welcoming towards families, making you feel right at home.
Things to Do in Split With Kids
- Explore Diocletian’s Palace: Wander through the ancient ruins of the palace complex, marveling at its grandeur and imagining life in Roman times.
- Visit Marjan Hill Park: Embark on a family hike amidst lush greenery, enjoy panoramic views of the city and sea, and let the kids burn off some energy at the playgrounds.
- Discover Mestrovic Gallery: Introduce your children to the works of Croatia’s greatest sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic, with its impressive collection of sculptures and art pieces.
- Take a Boat Trip: Hop on a boat and explore the nearby islands of Hvar, Brac, or Vis, where you can swim, snorkel, and discover hidden coves.
- Enjoy a Beach Day: Spend a relaxing day at one of Split’s family-friendly beaches, such as Bacvice Beach, known for its shallow waters and sandy shores.
Best Places to Visit in Split with Kids
- Klis Fortress: Embark on a day trip to Klis Fortress, a majestic medieval stronghold perched on a hilltop overlooking Split. Kids will love exploring the ramparts, towers, and dungeons, imagining battles and knights.
- Salona Archaeological Park: Unearth the remains of the ancient Roman city of Salona, once the capital of Dalmatia. Kids can wander through the ruins of houses, temples, and an amphitheater, feeling like archaeologists on a dig.
- Kaštela Bay: Take a boat tour to Kaštela Bay, a collection of charming villages along the coast. Each village boasts a historic castle, and some even have hidden beaches accessible only by boat.
- Aquarium Split: Discover the underwater world of the Adriatic Sea at the Aquarium Split. Kids will be mesmerized by the colorful fish, crustaceans, and other marine life on display.
- Zipline Split: Get your adrenaline pumping on a zipline adventure through the Marjan Forest canopy. This exciting activity offers stunning views of Split and the surrounding islands.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Split
- Old Town: Immerse yourselves in the heart of the action by staying within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. This vibrant neighborhood offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops, all within walking distance.
- Bačvice: For a beachside vacation, choose Bačvice. This lively neighborhood boasts the popular Bačvice Beach, along with numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes catering to tourists.
- Znjan: If you prefer a quieter setting, Znjan is a great option. This residential neighborhood offers a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and stunning views of the Marjan Forest.
- Meje: For a budget-friendly stay, consider Meje. This up-and-coming neighborhood is located just outside the city center but still offers easy access to Split’s attractions.
- Marjan: Nature lovers will appreciate staying in Marjan. This area offers peaceful accommodations surrounded by the lush
Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Split
- Amphora Hotel: Located within the historic walls of Diocletian’s Palace, the Amphora Hotel offers a unique family experience. The hotel features spacious family rooms, a swimming pool, and a kids’ club with daily activities.
- Hotel Park: Nestled on the slopes of Marjan Hill, Hotel Park boasts stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. This family-friendly hotel offers an outdoor pool, a playground, and a games room, keeping kids entertained.
- Villa Split: For a luxurious family getaway, consider Villa Split. This boutique hotel in the Old Town features stylish apartments with fully equipped kitchens, ideal for families who prefer self-catering options.
- Art Hotel: Located near Bačvice Beach, Art Hotel offers a modern and comfortable stay for families. The hotel boasts an outdoor pool, a rooftop terrace with stunning sea views, and a variety of family-friendly amenities.
- Split Apartments & Rooms Vranjic: If you’re on a budget, Split Apartments & Rooms Vranjic offer comfortable and affordable accommodations in the city center. The apartments come with kitchenettes, perfect for preparing meals with kids.
Best Time to Visit Split
The best time to visit Split with kids depends on your preferences. Here’s a breakdown by season:
- Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather with fewer crowds makes this shoulder season ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June-August): Warmest weather with long sunny days perfect for beach fun. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices.
- Autumn (September-October): Milder temperatures and fewer crowds make this another great shoulder season for exploring the city.
- Winter (November-March): The weather can be unpredictable with some rain, but there are also fewer crowds and lower prices.
How Long to Stay in Split
The ideal length of your Split vacation depends on your interests and pace. Here’s a suggestion:
- Short Break (3-4 days): This is enough time to explore the highlights of Split, including Diocletian’s Palace, Marjan Forest, and Bačvice Beach.
- Family Adventure (5-7 days): With a week, you can delve deeper into Split’s history and culture, take day trips to nearby islands, and enjoy plenty of beach time.
- Extended Stay (10+ days): If you have more time, you can truly immerse yourselves in the local way of life. Consider exploring further afield, visiting national parks like Krka National Park, or sailing along the Dalmatian coast.
Split Family Itinerary
This is a sample 4-day itinerary for families visiting Split:
Day 1:
- Morning: Explore Diocletian’s Palace, including the Peristyle and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
- Afternoon: Relax on Bačvice Beach and enjoy a swim in the Adriatic Sea.
- Evening: Stroll along the Riva promenade and enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 2:
- Morning: Take a boat tour to Brač Island and explore Zlatni Rat Beach, a stunning white pebble beach.
- Afternoon: Visit the village of Bol on Brač Island and enjoy some local ice cream.
- Evening: Attend a performance of traditional Croatian Klapa singing.
Day 3:
- Morning: Hike through Marjan Forest, enjoying panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands.
- Afternoon: Visit the Split City Museum and learn about Split’s history through interactive exhibits.
- Evening: Catch a game of football (soccer) at Hajduk Split Stadium or enjoy a family dinner in the Old Town.
Day 4:
- Morning: Take a day trip to Klis Fortress and learn about its role in defending Split throughout history.
- Afternoon: Relax on Kašjuni Beach, a secluded beach perfect for families with young children.
- Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a restaurant with live music, soaking in the final night of your Split adventure.
Getting Around Split
Split is a walkable city, and most of the major attractions are within easy reach of the Old Town. However, if you want to explore further afield, here are some options:
- Public Buses: Split has a reliable public bus network that connects the city center with nearby neighborhoods and beaches.
- Ferry: Ferries are a great way to explore nearby islands like Brač and Hvar.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Split, especially around the main tourist spots.
- Rental Cars: If you plan on exploring beyond Split, consider renting a car for more flexibility.
Split offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a memorable vacation experience. With its rich heritage, family-friendly attractions, and warm hospitality, Split promises endless opportunities for exploration and bonding, creating cherished memories for parents and children alike.
