5 Most Beautiful Beaches of the Makarska Riviera
August 9, 2024
The 4 Most Beautiful Beaches on the Island of Rab
August 16, 2024In a few simple steps, we’ll show you how to enrich your day so that you end it with a sense of satisfaction and productive exhaustion. Combine the pleasant with the useful – enjoy physical activity while simultaneously relaxing and spending time with your loved ones.
If you don’t have a bike, no worries – the city of Split has taken care of that too! The public bike system (nextbike on iOS and Android devices) is at your disposal. You can choose between electric bikes (to avoid getting too tired) or mechanical bikes that will allow you to explore the Split coastline in just a few hours!
Sounds interesting, doesn’t it?
Cycling route
Visual representation of the cycling route (Source: Bikemap)
As you can see, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” so we’ll take you through 9 “stops” for the ultimate enjoyment of this route. To help visualize the path, I used the Bikemap app (available in German and English), which provides a detailed representation of the planned route—from stops, duration, and distance to terrain descriptions. An additional perk is that you can use it for ride planning, track your route in real time, and share it with other cyclists within and outside the Bikemap community. The app is available for iOS and Android devices as well as on the web.
You can follow this specific route via this link.
So, let’s get started—our route begins at Žnjan (A).
In February 2024, one of Split’s largest projects commenced—the redevelopment of the Žnjan plateau, aiming to transform the entire Žnjan promenade into the city’s second-largest green space, following Marjan Forest Park. This project is designed to integrate numerous recreational, entertainment, and hospitality facilities, making them available to locals and tourists year-round. Why mention this? Depending on when you take this route, access to Žnjan Beach may be more or less restricted. Since the promenade is being renovated in phases, certain sections will gradually close or reopen.
If you decide to follow this route in the summer of 2025, you can stop and enjoy all the amenities Žnjan Beach will offer, including children’s playgrounds, tennis, volleyball, football, and basketball courts, a gym, and many other attractions.
Project Žnjan (Source: Žnjan d.o.o.)
From Žnjan towards Firule Beach and Bačvice Beach (B), you’ll likely encounter locals fully immersed in the traditional game of picigin, children playing in the sand, and their parents peacefully sipping coffee at a nearby café.
Of course, you’ll also find those who enjoy soaking up the sun, lounging under its rays, as well as others who prefer the cool shade offered by the pine forest.
Bačvice Beach (Source: Canva)
When you feel the need for a break, stop by Riva (C), leave your bike at the designated station, order a perfectly brewed coffee at one of the charming cafés, and snap a few photos to brighten up your Instagram profile.
Riva offers a variety of activities that will fill your time and provide an unforgettable coastal experience. Take a stroll along the picturesque promenade and enjoy the refreshing sea breeze while watching elegant boats sail in and out of the harbor.
Visit local shops and charming souvenir stores where you can find unique gifts for yourself or your loved ones. Don’t miss the chance to taste the ice cream at Gelateria Emiliana, which rightfully holds the title of “the best ice cream in Split” and delights visitors with its rich flavors. However, something many tourists don’t know—and which could deprive you of a great experience—is that the “real” Emiliana has changed its location, now just a few steps away from the old address.
Split waterfront (Source: Adriatic.hr)
No matter how much time you spend on Riva, this part of Split will undoubtedly charm you with its allure and diverse offerings.
When the city hustle becomes too much, hop on your bike and head along the western coast towards Sustipan (D) and the beautiful Zvončac Park (E). There, you’ll find a true oasis of peace and greenery, perfect for moments of quiet and relaxation away from the urban bustle.
Zvončac Park (Source: Canva)
The route continues along the Ivan Meštrović promenade—a magnificent path leading you to some of the most beautiful hidden gems in the area, such as the charming Ježinac Beach (F) and Kašuni Beach (G), as well as the fascinating Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries.
Imagine what it feels like to journey through this natural oasis: as you pedal your bike, the invigorating scent of pine needles fills the air, accompanied by the enchanting sounds of cicadas and birdsong. The shade of the trees offers the perfect refuge, while a gentle breeze brushes your face, bringing a sense of freedom and relaxation.
After this short but enchanting route, you stop at Kašuni Beach. Here, with a view of the vast blue sea tirelessly crashing against the shore, you feel as if you’ve found the perfect spot to escape the everyday. Isn’t that the ideal setting for a body and soul seeking rest after such a "demanding" route?
Kašuni Beach (Source: Canva)
Bene Beach (Source: Canva)
The highlight of your cycling adventure comes with the most beautiful sunset at Bene Beach (H). There, you can end your ride near the Spinut Student Dormitory (I), where dinner awaits if you’re feeling hungry.
If this route was a bit too ambitious, feel free to return via public transport (bus 17) or simply relax and call a taxi.
