Car Enthusiast’s Drive Across Croatia!
June 13, 2024Dive into Split's allure, conquer St. Dominus's heights, and chill at Bacvice's beach vibes.Trogir's charm and Brač's Bol await. Hvar and the Pakleni Islands bring nautical magic!
Split is the second largest city in Croatia and the largest one in Dalmatia.
Its beauty and the beauty of the surrounding areas will leave you without a breath.
Although it is a relatively small town, it's filled with fascinating history and natural beauty, making it worth the visit.
Today we have prepared a guide on how to make the most of 7 days in Split, while at the same time finding time for relaxation and sightseeing.
This guide includes 3 days in Split, one day of visiting Trogir (the town approximately 30 km from Split), 3 days on Hvar, and last but not least, 2 days on Brač - beautiful islands in the immediate vicinity of the city, where you will experience the most crystal clear sea and clean beaches.
Day 1: Old town and Bačvice
Split's Riva
We assume that when traveling, you like to follow the motto "When in Rome, do as the Romans do".
So we're glad to inform you, that in Split, we not only eat well, but we also like to take our sweet time to do our favorite morning ritual - drinking coffee.
The busiest place in the city is definitely the Riva, and how could it not be when your view consists of the sea, palm trees, and islands while in the shade of a cafe...
Therefore, we recommend that you start your visit to Split right here - Split's Riva otherwise known as "the most beautiful Riva in the world".
Peristil
The most popular place, without which Split's panorama cannot be imagined, is certainly the central square of Diocletian's palace.
Under the arch that is located above the square, the emperor appeared and greeted his loyal subjects.
In turn, they knelt, kissing the traditional garbs and bowing with their whole bodies.
If you sit on the steps of the square, you can admire Peristil with a glass of wine, and when night falls expect to witness live music and dancing in the square where the ancient Romans and emperor Diocletian himself passed.
Cathedral and bell tower of St Dominus
From Peristil you will notice the high bell tower rising and overlooking Split.
This bell tower belongs to the oldest cathedral in the world, the Cathedral of St Dominus (Sveti Duje).
Originally built in the 4th AD century to serve as a mausoleum for Emperor Diocletian, today it's being used for Holy Mass ceremonies and as a tourist attraction.
While there, we highly recommend climbing the bell tower of St. Dominus from where you will have the most beautiful view of Split and the islands.
However, stay careful as you will come across narrow and steep steps that lead upwards.
If you are afraid of heights, there are several stations on the way to the top from which you will feel safer but still have a very nice view.
Split waterfront (Source: Unsplash)
Bell tower of St. Dujam in Split (Source Unsplash)
Split market (Source: Unsplash)
Diocletian's cellars
When you go down the stairs below the Peristil, you will find yourself in the basement of the palace.
The cellars of Diocletian's palace represent one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of this kind in the world, and they are largely responsible for the fact that the historic core of Split was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979.
During the Roman times, their function was to raise the emperor's quarters above the basement.
Today, it serves multiple purposes — from holding exhibitions, and performances, souvenir shopping, and traditional jewelry hunting, to simply sightseeing.
Lunch
After all that sightseeing and learning about the history of Split, we recommend that you take a lunch break and hide from the high sun and temperatures.
Be sure to be guided by Mediterranean food, and try fish specialties or the traditional brudet.
If you are more into the meat categories, we recommend you try the Dalmatian pašticada — a traditional dish made from beef leg that is marinated for several hours in a sweet and sour sauce and served with homemade gnocchi.
Don't forget to try one of the top Croatian wines from the nearby islands, too.
It's time for the beach
The most famous city beach is the sandy beach in the bay of Bačvice.
Home of the local sport of picigin, which is on the UNESCO list of intangible heritage, Bacvice beach is a symbol of Split.
It's ideal for fun and sea games, considering it is shallow up to 100 m from the shore.
Not a fan of sand?
The beach also has a concrete part.
Dinner in the old town
As the sun sets, casting a warm glow over the picturesque cityscape, the old center of Split comes alive with a vibrant energy that beckons you to explore its rich culinary offerings.
After a full day of basking in the sun and enjoying the soothing waves at the beach, the evening unfolds with a promise of gastronomic delights.
Wandering through the cobblestone streets of the historic center, you'll find a myriad of charming restaurants, each exuding its own unique ambiance.
The air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of top-quality Mediterranean cuisine, enticing you to embark on a culinary journey like no other.
The locals, known for their warm hospitality, take pride in sharing the culinary treasures of their region.
Don't hesitate to engage with the friendly waitstaff or chefs, who are often more than willing to provide recommendations and share the stories behind the dishes.
Day 2: Western Split
Details of the arches of Split's Prokurativ (Source: Unsplash)
View of Split from Marjan (Source: Unsplash)
Pleasant afternoon on Sustipan (Source: Unsplash)
Breakfast on Prokurative
Prokurative, or officially named Republic Square (Trg Republike), is a large square located west of the Riva that resembles Venice's St. Mark's Square and is surrounded on three sides by neo-Renaissance buildings with arches, from which it got its recognizable name.
The square is open only to the south, offering a view of the harbor and the Riva.
Square Panels (Ploče Trga) serve as a stage for various cultural events, and "hides" restaurants and cafes where you can have your first-morning coffee and breakfast with a magnificent view.
A walk on Marjan
The people of Split like to call Marjan forest park the "lungs of the city", which it is if we take into consideration the fact that it covers a large part of western Split.
Along with the beautiful nature, you will come across the chapel of St Jerome built along a vertical cliff, and at the bottom of the Marjan hill you will find the beautiful beaches where the locals like to hide from the city crowds (p.s. There's unofficial FKK beach as well).
Sustipan
Another location that enhances the natural beauty of Split is the Sustipan peninsula, not far from the center of the city itself.
In the past, it served as a cemetery until its demolition after World War II.
To this day, only the classicist gloriette has been preserved while Sustipan was turned into a beautiful park — a little green oasis close to Marjan and the city, with a breathtaking view of the sea and the islands in front of Split.
The eastern parts of Sustipan offer one of the most beautiful views of Split: the ACI marina at the foot of the hill, while on the western side is the Jadran swimming pool, belonging to the swimming club and water polo club of the same name.
Lunch
We assume that the clean air of the Marjan and Sustipan parks has increased your appetite, so we suggest lunch before continuing your activities.
On Sustipan itself, you will find the restaurant "Adriatic", where the islands and the sea are in the palm of your hand, and the food is no less than fantastic.
The Meštrović Gallery
For art enthusiasts, a visit to the gallery of Ivan Meštrović presents an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the legacy of Croatia's sculptor.
Situated in a picturesque part of Split, the gallery stands as a living tribute to Meštrović's vision and talent.
Prior to his passing, sculptor bequeathed the estate, along with its 132 remarkable art pieces, to the Croatian people.
As you meander through the gallery, don't miss the opportunity to explore the enchanting garden, where sculptures are thoughtfully placed amidst lush greenery.
However, keep in mind that the gallery is closed on Mondays.
Day 3: Trogir
City Bazaar
We suggest you start the day with fresh fruit at Split's Bazar, where you will feel the true Mediterranean spirit.
After a morning refreshment, head towards Trogir, a small town about 30 kilometers from Split.
If you don't have a car, there is a bus line number 37 that will take you to Trogir (take into account that driving hours will differ depending on the day usually, on Saturdays and Sundays buses drive less frequently).
Cathedral, town square and loggia
Constructed almost four centuries ago, Trogir's Cathedral of St. Lawrence, also known as Crkva Sv. Lovre, stands as a beacon of historical and architectural significance.
Recognized as a UNESCO-protected world heritage site, this cathedral boasts the renowned Radovan's portal, a pivotal medieval masterpiece in the eastern Adriatic.
Positioned on the town square, opposite the town lodge, the portal commands attention with its intricate design.
Notably, the eastern wall features a stone relief by Nikola Florentinac from 1471, portraying the Venetian lion alongside the city's protectors, St. Lawrence and Blessed John (Ivan) of Trogir.
Completing this tableau is a stone judge's table embedded in the relief.
Ćipiko palace
Across from the cathedral stands the Cipiko family palace, a private residence inaccessible to the public.
Nevertheless, it holds significance for enthusiasts who can appreciate its Gothic windows and a renowned Latin inscription: "Nosce te ipsum" translating to "Get to know yourself."
This historical gem, also crafted by Nikola Florentinec, adds a touch of intrigue to the architectural landscape, inviting passersby to ponder the deeper meanings embedded within its walls.
Old core
Just like it is the case with Split, the old core of Trogir is also charming.
We believe it will be interesting for you to wander through the narrow stone streets where you can come across various small shops and buy unique souvenirs.
Lunch
Though the old town center is filled with interesting and charming restaurants, for your lunch in Trogir we recommend the family restaurant "Franka", which will delight you with its approach and delicious food.
Be sure to try one of their unique cocktails, too. For dessert, we suggest gelateria "Bella", where you can try top-quality ice cream that is loved by both tourists and locals.
Kamerlengo fortress
The Kamerlengo fortress is located in the western part of the Trogir peninsula, built by the Venetians from the 13th to the 15th century as a military base for their soldiers in this part of the Adriatic.
It was named after the city master Camerarius.
Nowadays, the fortress has become a multimedia center with an open-air cinema and a stage for various cultural events.
It is open for visits every day from 9 a.m.
The main square in Trogir (Source: Unsplash)
Traditional Trogir Kvadrilja (Source: TZ Trogir)
Kamerlengo Fortress (Source: Unsplash)
ADDITIONALLY
You can find the time and prices of the shipping lines here.
Day 4: Brač island
The island of Brač is the largest and nearest island to the mainland, with just a 45-minute ferry ride from the city of Split.
As such, it offers a variety of activities and places to see, but in this guide, we will focus on the most popular town on the island – Bol.
Zlatni rat
An unmissable place when you're on the island of Brač with one of the most beautiful and special beaches in the world.
Zlatni rat is a pebbles beach that changes its shape at the will of Mother Nature.
Depending on the currents and the wind, it changes the direction of the peak and thus fascinates the world.
The crystal clear sea will attract you to refresh yourself, and the view of the forest will delight you.
Lunch
After a day at the beach, we suggest having lunch in the center of town.
You will surely find something for yourself because many restaurants nurture Mediterranean cuisine and provide a superb gastronomic experience.
Vidova Gora
The peak of Vidovica above Bol makes the island of Brač the highest Croatian island, and from the top, you can see the Zlatni Rat from a bird's eye perspective.
It's a picture-perfect spot as other beautiful locations and islands paint your background.
You can reach Vidova Gora by car via an asphalt road, or a hiking trail from Bol, but we recommend this venture during or before sunrise.
Tourists waiting for transport in Bol, Brač (Source: Unsplash)
View of Zlatni Rat beach on the island of Brač (Source: Unsplash)
Fisherman's Beach (Source: Unsplash)
Day 5: Brač island
Fisherman's beach
Fisherman's Beach (Ribarska plaža) is located to the east of the town of Bol.
Beautiful and less crowded compared to the popular Zlatni Rat, it is located a mere 10-minute walk from the center of Bol.
Centuries-old pine trees make it picturesque, and right on the beach, you can find the restaurant "Ribarska kučica", too.
Kopačina Tavern
In addition to classic Dalmatian dishes, lamb dishes are traditional on the Brač island.
We recommend the "Kopačina" tavern, a place that has become a must-see when visiting Bol and is located in Donji Humac, 7 km from Supetar.
This small town has a long and rich history of processing the famous Brač stone and is home to several prominent artistic families.
Blaca desert
The very name desert (pustinja), or hermitage, comes from a group of inhabitants who lived in one area.
With the first appearance of Christianity, individuals who lived in complete solitude appeared, the so-called hermits.
Today, a museum is located here, where old furniture, kitchen, dining rooms, and different styles of furniture are displayed in the rooms.
The majority of the museum's collection is made up of various astronomical instruments, a rich collection of antique weapons and clocks, and a rich library with works written in Croatian Cyrillic-Poljica script.
Blaca itself can be accessed in two ways.
The first is by car to get to the north side. The road goes towards Vidova Gora, but it can be difficult for low-suspension vehicles, which is why it is recommended to leave the vehicle and walk through the abandoned village of Dragovode to Blace desert.
Another way is by boat, from the south side. Arriving in Popovo Cove, you will need another 45 minutes of walking to reach the Blace desert.
Given that there are no shops in Pustinja, make sure you have enough water and food.
Day 6: Hvar island
Concluding our tour with the last two days on the sun-drenched island of Hvar, renowned as Croatia's sunniest destination, boasting an impressive average of 2700 hours of sunshine annually.
Hvar Island captivates with its picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant culture, promising an unforgettable experience bathed in the warm glow of the Mediterranean sun.
Stari grad
Embark on a delightful morning of exploration in the historic core of Hvar, starting in Stari Grad. Meander through its charming streets, immersing yourself in the town's rich heritage.
Coffee enthusiasts will find bliss at "Kava37" a quaint bar offering specialty brews.
For a sweet indulgence, don't miss the delectable treats at "Sweet Republic Hvar".
Franciscan monastery
Strolling nonchalantly along the seaside promenade from Hvarska pjaca, through Hvar's vibrant Riva, the Franciscan monastery emerges in no time.
Within the serene confines of the monastery, a treasure trove of museum exhibits awaits exploration.
Discover collections ranging from Greek, Roman, and Venetian coins to liturgical utensils, an ancient atlas by cartographer Ptolemy, and rare examples of amphorae.
The walls adorned with paintings by Venetian artists Francesco Santacroca and Palma the Younger add an artistic flourish.
The pièce de résistance is the breathtaking 2 x 8 meters painting of the Last Supper, a spectacle that never fails to leave every visitor awe-inspired.
Falko beach
Accessible on foot from Hvar's center, Falko Beach beckons with its sandy shores.
The beach hosts a bar bearing the same name, inviting visitors to savor refreshing cocktails and indulge in authentic Dalmatian dishes, creating a perfect day trip just a stroll away from the heart of Hvar.
Day 7: Pakleni islands
Situated just off the town of Hvar, the Pakleni or Paklinski Islands derive their name from "paklina," signifying pine resin historically used in ship repairs.
Stretching approximately 10 kilometers, this chain comprises around twenty islets adorned with low pine forests.
Embracing some of Hvar's most picturesque marine spots, the islands boast numerous inviting bays and crystalline waters for swimming.
For an immersive experience, consider a guided island tour featuring onboard lunch.
Alternatively, if you possess a boat license, renting a small boat offers a personalized exploration of the Pakleni Islands, with rental costs ranging from €60 to €250 per day based on boat type and group size.
Opting for an organized tour with lunch typically comes at around €55.
Island of Hvar (Source: Unsplash)
The old core of Hvar (Source: Unsplash)
Tower of the Franciscan Monastery, Hvar (Source: Unsplash)
