Split Solo Travel: 15+ Things to Do in Split Alone

I’ve visited Split as a solo traveler, with friends, and with family—and honestly, there’s no wrong way to experience this stunning piece of the Dalmatian Coast.

The first time I went was in April 2018, right before Croatia’s tourism boom. It was shoulder season, the streets were quiet, Airbnbs were sickeningly affordable, and I was about to fall head-over-heels.

If you’re into Roman, Greek, or Byzantine history, fresh seafood, gorgeous views, and island hopping between turquoise bays—Split should be your next solo trip. It’s safe, social, and affordable, making it one of the best spots in Europe for solo female travelers who love the beach.

Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking for new ideas for your return, this is your ultimate guide to Split solo travel—packed with itinerary tips, safety advice, and everything I’ve learned from exploring this coastal city three times.

Is Split a Good Destination for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes—Split is one of the best places in Croatia to visit solo.

It’s more affordable and less crowded than Dubrovnik, and if you stay near the city center, everything is walkable—no need for public transport or Ubers.

There’s a ton to do here on a budget, from exploring Roman ruins to beach hopping and joining group tours. The locals are easygoing and welcoming, and I’ve always felt safe exploring the city on my own.

What makes Split even better is how it changes with the seasons.

Spring and fall are quieter and cooler with great prices, while summer brings all the island-hopping, beach-day energy Croatia is famous for. Plus, the city has tons of social hostels that make it easy to meet other travelers (and keep trip costs low).

Where is Split?

Split is located on the southern end of Croatia’s gorgeous Dalmatian Coast—perched right on the Adriatic Sea.

Downtown Split is so quaint and charming, it’s easy to forget it’s actually the second largest city in the country (after Zagreb, the capital).

As well as being a popular tourist destination itself, it’s also a popular gateway to the country’s hottest islands—like Brac and Hvar. With Dubrovnik only 3.5 hours away, my family and I went the scenic route and drove between them on my first trip.

When to Visit Split as a Solo Traveler

That totally depends on what kind of trip you’re looking for.

If your ideal vacation includes island hopping, swimming in the Adriatic, and exploring Croatia’s national parks, then you’ll need to visit in the summer. It’s definitely more crowded and more expensive—but it’s also the best time to meet other solo travelers.

If you’re not big on beaches or boat days, and you’d rather get a more local, laid-back, and budget-friendly experience, then I highly recommend coming during shoulder season (April–June or September–October).

That’s my favorite time to visit Split—fewer crowds, better prices, and the weather is still great.

I wouldn’t personally recommend visiting in the winter. A lot of Split’s best attractions are closed, including Krka National Park, which shuts down from January through March.

That said, if you do find yourself here in the off-season, you’ll still get to enjoy the city’s charm—and likely score some incredible deals on accommodation.

Getting There & Around Solo

Split is a super solo-traveler-friendly city—both getting there and getting around once you arrive is straightforward and low-stress.

Whether you’re flying in or arriving by bus or train, everything is walkable once you’re in the city center.

How to Get There

Funny enough, I’ve never actually flown into Split Airport (SPU)—during my first trip, we drove up from Dubrovnik, which is a gorgeous coastal drive. If you’re comfortable renting a car solo and plan to visit Dubrovnik too, it’s definitely worth it for the views alone.

For my second and third visits, I took an overnight bus from Italy… and let’s just say I don’t recommend that if you want to arrive well-rested.

That said, Split does have its own international airport, so flying in is super easy if you’re coming from abroad. You can also arrive by train or bus from other European cities.

How to Get Around

My favorite way to get around downtown Split is just by walking. The city center is super walkable, and chances are you’ll stumble across something new and exciting every time you head out.

That said, Split also has regular and electric bikes you can rent through an app. The public bus system is reliable and can get you just about anywhere you need to go.

And if you’re headed a little farther out, you’ve got options—Uber, local taxis, and Bolt (a European rideshare app I used all the time in Portugal) all operate in Split. (Hint: Bolt usually has the best prices.)

Is Split Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Yes—Split is absolutely a safe destination for solo female travelers. I’ve always felt comfortable there, no matter the time of day or where I was wandering around Old Town. Locals are friendly, laid-back, and welcoming to tourists.

The biggest thing to watch out for (like most places in Europe) is petty theft and pickpocketing. Keep an eye on your stuff, don’t carry more cash or valuables than you need, and if you’re extra cautious, use an anti-theft purse.

As long as you follow basic solo travel safety tips—always keep an eye on your drink, be aware of your surroundings, trust your instincts, and make sure your phone is charged with data—you’ll be totally fine in Split.

What to Pack

What you pack for Split is going to depend a lot on when you visit and where you’re staying.

If you’re in a hostel, don’t forget your survival kit: microfiber towel, rubber flip-flops, combination lock, earplugs, and an eye mask. If you’re in a hotel or Airbnb, you can skip most of those—but I still bring the flip-flops and towel regardless.

In the summer, think beach essentials: bathing suits, a quick-dry towel, and reef-safe sunscreen. If you’re visiting in shoulder season, the weather can be unpredictable—bring layers, a packable raincoat or travel umbrella, and comfortable shoes for walking around.

Other that that, here’s what to pack for a solo trip to Split:

• Kindle Paperwhite (solo travel must-have)
• Apple AirTags
• Downloadable eSIM (I like Airalo—use code MADI10 for 10% off)
• Calpak Slingbag—my go-to everyday travel bag
• Comfortable sneakers or walking shoes
• Jase Case or travel-size first aid kit
• Power bank
• Voltage adapter (if you’re coming from the U.S.)
• Door stopper alarm (especially if you’re staying solo in an Airbnb)
• Reusable tumbler or water bottle
• Handheld portable fan (trust me, a lifesaver in August)
• My free guide to taking awesome travel shots alone

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveler

Whether you’re into the hostel scene or prefer a little more privacy, Split has tons of great accommodation options for every budget—including a few that are especially solo-travel friendly.

📍Budget-Friendly: En Route Hostel

If you’re on a budget and looking to meet other travelers, En Route Hostel is a solid pick. Although I’ve only stayed there once, my experience was 10/10 for a hostel!

Just a heads-up—if you’re a light sleeper or struggle to get good rest in hostels, this one might not be for you. The dorms are on the larger side (the smallest has 8 beds, the biggest has 18), but the vibe is fun and super social and the beds have privacy curtains—which definitely helps.

The hostel also has some of the best breakfasts I’ve ever had at a hostel, plus free luggage storage, security lockers, air conditioning, and a shared common room to meet new people.

At around $18 a night, it’s hard to beat for value.

👉🏼 Book your stay at En Route Hostel in Split!

📍Mid-Range: Hotel Kastel 1700

If you’re looking for comfort, location, and still keeping things affordable, Hotel Kastel 1700 is a great mid-range option. Rooms here start at around $60 a night in the off-season—though that price definitely climbs during shoulder and peak season.

The hotel is right in the center of town, just steps from Diocletian’s Palace, with rooms offering views of either the Adriatic Sea or a charming medieval square.

There’s an on-site bar and coffeehouse, and the location couldn’t be better for exploring Split on foot as a solo traveler.

👉🏼 Check availability for your trip at Hotel Kastel 1700!

📍Luxury: Cornaro Hotel

If you’re ready to treat yourself, Cornaro Hotel is one of the only five-star hotels located right in Old Town Split.

It’s just a two-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace and offers all the luxury perks you’d expect—including two on-site restaurants, room service, and a fitness center.

One of the highlights is the rooftop terrace, which features a rooftop pool, plus a bar with incredible views of Split (just note that the bar is closed from late October to late April). It’s one of the highest-rated hotels in Split for solo travelers!

Unfortunately, my current budget doesn’t support this kind of splurge—but if it did, you better believe I’d be staying at Cornaro Hotel every single time I went to Split solo.

👉🏼 Book your trip to Split at Cornaro Hotel!

The Best Things to Do in Split Solo

As a solo traveler, there’s no shortage of amazing things to do in Split—and you don’t need a huge budget or a big group of travel buddies to enjoy them.

If you’re into history, great food, stunning views, and island-hopping beach vibes, you’re going to love what Split has to offer.

1. Tour Diocletian’s Palace

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and my personal favorite attraction in Split—you can’t miss a visit to Diocletian’s Palace on your solo trip.

The palace was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement home in the 4th century AD and it’s so insanely massive that 3,000 people living in the heart of Split actually live within the historic old walls 🤯.

There are restaurants, shops and local residences built directly into the old facade…so you know it’s a great place for a photo opp. 👉🏼 Grab my guide to taking amazing photos as a solo traveler.

The site, and the dungeons below, was also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones…which I was a diehard fan of until the last three episodes. If you’re familiar with the show, the palace was the location for scenes set in Meereen—where Daenerys kept her dragons chained up in the dungeons.

The best views of Split can be seen from the Bell Tower of Saint Domnius, if you’re daring enough to brave the questionable staircase to the top. I won’t lie to you—I wasn’t.

It’s free to wander around the palace complex and the old walls, but for €15 you can purchase a combination ticket on-site for the Cathedral, Crypt, Baptistery, Treasury, and the Bell Tower. (€7 if you just want to climb the tower.)

To get the most out of your experience, I would recommend purchasing the €15 all-access ticket as well as splurging on a 90-minute guided tour of the palace (although for only $17 it’s not much of a splurge).

IMO, there’s no point looking at ruins if you don’t know what you’re looking at!

2. Explore Old Town Split Solo or on a Walking Tour

One of my favorite things to do in any European city as a solo traveler (and if you love Europe, you probably agree) is to just wander.

Find a beautiful side street, sit down with a glass of wine, people-watch, snack on some cheese or a flaky pastry, and let the city unfold around you.

Split is absolutely no exception. The downtown area is unbelievably quaint—especially since a huge part of it is actually inside the walls of Diocletian’s Palace. It’s one of those places where you can feel the history under your feet.

Give yourself plenty of time to explore and appreciate the beauty of Split’s Old Town—it’s not a place to rush through.

And, if you prefer to wander with intention, consider hopping on one of Split’s many free walking tours—like this one by Sandemans New Europe. It’s a great way to get the know the city and even make some new friends!

3. Hike Marjan Hill

If you love a good sunset viewpoint—and you know I do—you won’t have to look much further than Marjan Hill.

During my first visit to Split with my family, we stayed in an Airbnb halfway up the hill, and to this day, it’s one of my all-time favorite Airbnbs.

I don’t recommend it here since it’s a little pricey and way too big for one person, but if you’re in the mood to splurge and want insane views from your window—this is the spot.

From the city center, it’s only about a 10-minute walk to the edge of the park. At the top of the first staircase, there’s a little restaurant called Teraca Vidilica that’s perfect for an espresso and a low-key breakfast with a view.

4. Relax on the Riva

The Riva is the main promenade in Old Town Split—a palm-lined stretch of shops, cafés, and restaurants running right along the harbor.

It’s one of my favorite areas in Split to spend an hour people-watching, enjoying a cup of coffee (or more likely, cold beer), or flying my drone over the water.

Since it’s the busiest (and most scenic) part of the city, prices here tend to be a bit higher—but on a nice day, it’s worth the extra couple bucks (IMO).

5. Take a Tourist Pic with the SPLIT Sign

We love a cheesy tourist pic 📸 and it doesn’t get much cheesier than the “Split” sign.

Why they left it facing the gross intersection with the ugly bus station instead of the beautiful Riva…I have no idea. Let’s just say it’s not the most picturesque photo spot in Split, but it is a right of passage.

Thankfully, even if you’re visiting Split solo, you can do better than a selfie. I’m the expert on taking amazing travel shots without someone else behind the camera…although maybe this one is a bad example 😂.

6. Climb the Klis Fortress

Just a 20-minute drive from Split, Klis Fortress is perched high in the hills and offers incredible panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, dotted with olive trees and grapevines.

You can get there easily by bus or Uber, and if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize it as the city of Meereen.

Klis Fortress dates all the way back to the 2nd century BC, when it was built by the Illyrian Dalmatae tribe. Over the centuries, it became a royal seat and major stronghold, best known for holding off Ottoman invasions in the Middle Ages. It’s changed hands more times than I can count—but most of what you’ll see today was shaped by the Venetians in the 17th and 19th centuries.

Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance to explore Klis myself yet—but it’s number one on my bucket list for the next time I head back to Split!

7. Tour the Mestrovic Art Gallery

I wouldn’t exactly call myself a museum connoisseur…but I will explore a good art museum once if I get chance.

If you’re looking for a rainy day activity in Split, I highly recommend checking out the Meštrović Gallery. Its dedicated to Ivan Meštrović, one of Croatia’s most prominent 20th‑century artists, whose work spans sculpture, architecture and design.

Located in a villa built between 1931–1939 and designed by Meštrović himself, the building sits on the Marjan peninsula and originally served as his home, studio and exhibition space.

Inside you’ll find marble, bronze and wood sculptures, original plaster models, architectural drawings and even his furniture and home déco—so it’s more like a snapshot into his life than an art museum.

You can buy tickets for €12 (€8 for students) directly at the gallery.

Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Closed on Mondays and public holidays.

8. Nerd Out on Game of Thrones

Most fans picture Dubrovnik when they think of Game of Thrones, but Split has its fair share of filming locations too—including scenes shot inside Diocletian’s Palace.

I visited the Game of Thrones Museum when it opened in 2019, but it’s mostly filled with local recreations, so if you’re hoping for real props from the show you’ll be disappointed. The best part was the photo wall showing scenes from the show alongside real filming spots around Split!

If you’re a big fan, I’d honestly skip the museum and book a Game of Thrones-themed walking tour instead. I didn’t take one in Split, but my family and I did one during our 5-day trip to Dubrovnik and it was a highlight of the trip. It’s way cooler seeing the filming locations in person.

9. Book an Island Cruise

If you’re visiting Split in the summer and want to have some fun and make some new friends, I highly recommend booking an island cruise.

Back in 2019, I joined an island cruise off the coast of Split and we had the best time—the weather was perfect, the water was warm, and the day was packed with beach stops, swimming, and fresh seafood.

One of the highlights was a stop at Okrug Beach, which had a massive inflatable water park floating in the bay.

Think of that reality show Wipeout, but in the Adriatic.

It was absolutely ridiculous in the best way, and honestly, I’ve never done anything like it. 10/10 would wipeout again.

Psst 🤫 if you really want to make friends, book a seat on this party boat cruise.

10. Go White Water Rafting

If you’ve never gone, this may surprise you—but you do not have to know how to white water raft to book a white water rafting excursion.

Obviously do some research, but many destinations around the world offer fun and easy white water rafting for beginners—like in Spit, Pico Bonito National Park in Honduras, and it’s even one of my favorite things to do in Ubud.

I went white water rafting in Split back in 2019 and it was such a fun way to get your adrenaline pumping and cool off in those scorching Croatian summers!

The tour I joined was actually through my old employer, but this half-day rafting excursion on Viator offers transportation to and from the Cetina River, rafting, multiple swimming spots, cliff jumping, and even exploring a cave (all for $53).

11. Day Drink at Joe’s Beach Bar

If you’re visiting Split in the summer, don’t skip a day at Joe’s Beach Lounge & Bar. It’s a one-stop shop for a relaxing beach day—with a cocktail bar, restaurant, massage tent, kayak and paddle board rentals, and a long stretch of Croatia’s white-stone shoreline.

Just keep in mind, Joe’s is only open during the summer, and it gets busy. If you want to grab a sunbed (they come with an umbrella and side table), I’d recommend getting there by 10:00 AM at the latest.

Sunbeds are about €20 for the day (last time I checked), but a cocktail will set you back around €14—so it’s not exactly the most budget-friendly spot. However, sometimes as a solo traveler you just need a place to read, cool off in the water, and sip something delicious.

I’d recommend bringing a towel and a pair of swim shoes—I love my Midform Infinity Tevas for rocky beaches like this.

12. Eat at the Best Restaurants in Split

I hope you love seafood, because the Dalmatian Coast does it really well.

Like Dubrovnik’s food scene, Split is full of fresh fish, octopus, and mussels—but you’ll also find plenty of Italian influence with creamy pastas and rich risottos. Traditional Croatian fare leans hearty: think grilled meats, french fries, cured meats, and ćevapi (grilled sausage dumplings).

And don’t skip the wine—Croatia has some seriously underrated local bottles.

Best of all? It’s easy to eat well here, even on a budget.

Fig: If you’re on the search for a tasty brunch spot, look no further than Fig. They offer plenty of traditional brunch options with a Croatian spin. We ordered the waffles and sweet potato fries and everything was affordable and delicious.

Uje Restaurant: Located in the heart of Old Town Split, Uje Oil Bar serves some of the most delicious Mediterranean fare I’ve had in the city. With an outdoor table on the cobblestones, we feasted on fresh prosciutto, local cheeses, homemade bread, fresh seafood, and Croatian wine (and Aperol Spritz—obviously).

Corto Maltese: Corto Maltese Freestyle Food was a serendipitous find during my first trip to Split with my family in 2018. Starving, we stumbled into this colorful, themed restaurant in the middle of Old Town for some appetizers and homemade pasta. Both my parents agree that it was the best food we had during our trip!

Villa Spiza: Of the restaurants on this list, Villa Spiza would have to be my #1 choice for tasty eats in Split. This tiny restaurant is actually split (haha) into two rooms located across the street from one another.

Sadly, I’m not the only one that knows how delicious this spot is—you can expect to wait a while for a table on the weekends. We asked the waiter for his recommendation and filled up on pasta alla norcina (minced pork, truffle, and mushroom).

13. Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park

I didn’t make it to Krka National Park until my second trip to Split in April of 2018, and it was a bit too chilly to get in the water. Thankfully, the weather was nicer when I visited again later in the year and I got to experience swimming in the gorgeous waterfalls!

If you’ve got the time, I highly recommend adding a day trip to Krka on your Split itinerary.

The national park is only about an hour’s drive from Split, so it’s an easy trip if you’ve rented a car. If you’re visiting solo, I’d definitely recommend booking a guided tour that includes transportation—it’s low-stress and a great way to meet other travelers.

The park is closed in January, February, and March, and opening hours vary throughout the year, so it’s best to check the official website before you go. Entry fees also depend on the season (last updated: Oct. 2025).

• €7 in the off-season
• €20 in shoulder season
• €40 during high season

And yes—it’s 100% worth it. The waterfalls are unreal.

Croatia also has another famous national park known for its waterfalls called Plitvice, but that one’s about 2.5 hours away from Split. Krka is way more convenient if you’re short on time but still want to see some of the country’s natural beauty.

14. Take a Day Trip to Mostar

On my first trip to Split, we decided to pack up our rental car and drive the two and a half hours across the border to explore Mostar in beautiful Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Let me tell you—this city is fascinating.

Its rich history dates back to the 15th century and it’s home to one of the most iconic sites in the Balkans: Stari Most. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stone bridge built by the Ottomans in 1566—and at the time, it was the longest arch bridge in the world.

Mostar is often called the bridge between the East and the West. One side of the bridge is Muslim, the other is Christian. It’s one of the most diverse and historically layered place I’ve ever visited!

Oh, and the shopping? Phenomenal.

While renting a car made sense when I was traveling with my family, if I were visiting Mostar as a solo traveler, I’d probably book a guided tour instead—like this one that includes a stop at Kravica Waterfall.

15. Experience the Best Nightlife in Split

If you’re looking to live your best life on your trip to Split, you’ll definitely want to check out some of the city’s best nightlife spots. However, be cautious not to overdo it, keep your wits about you, and always keep an eye on your drink (stay safe my solo travel girlies ❤️).

Charlie’s Bar: This is hands down my favorite bar in Old Town Split—and actually where I tried my first-ever espresso martini (clearly a momentous occasion, considering it’s one of my go-to drinks now).

Charlie’s has great energy, affordable drinks, and a super lively crowd. It’s known as the backpacker and hostel bar in Split, so it’s always packed with people looking to party. Think singing, dancing, live music, and a fun, chaotic atmosphere.

Fabrique Pub: Over on the western end of the Riva, Fabrique is always buzzing with tourists in the summer. It’s a little pricier than your average bar, but the vibes are excellent, and it’s a great spot to start the night.

Central Club: If you’re looking to dance, drink, and go full club mode, Central Club is your spot. It’s the only legit nightclub in the city center and a favorite among locals and travelers who want to keep the party going late.

My Favorite Split Tours for Solo Travelers

One of my favorite solo travel hacks is joining group tours—they’re one of the easiest ways to meet new people when you’re visiting a city alone.

Even better: look for tours run by local hostels, even if you’re not staying there. You don’t need to be a guest to join, and hostels are naturally great places to meet other travelers.

When I’m booking day trips or local activities, I almost always use Viator. It’s super reliable, easy to use, and has tons of options in Split. Here are a few of my favorites…

• FREE Walking Tour of Old Town Split
• 90-min Diocletian Palace Walking Tour (⭐️5/5)
• Game of Thrones Small group Tour with Diocletian’s Cellar (⭐️5/5)
• Blue Lagoon & 3 Islands Cruise with Lunch from Split (⭐️4.5/5)
• Split Boat Party with Blue Lagoon Swim Stop (⭐️4.5/5)
• Half-Day Rafting Experience on Cetina River with Cliff Jumping and more (⭐️5/5)
• Krka Waterfalls Tour from Split with Boat Ride & Swimming (⭐️5/5)
• Mostar and Herzegovina Tour with Kravica Waterfall from Split (⭐️5/5)
• Plitvice Lakes National Park Guided Day Tour from Split (⭐️5/5)
• Split Food Tour: Discover Split One Bite At A Time (⭐️5/5)
• Zipline Croatia: Cetina Canyon Zipline Adventure from Omis (⭐️5/5)
• The Split Tower Pub Crawl

Tips for Dining Solo in Croatia

I’ve been a solo traveler for years, so dining alone doesn’t faze me one bit—I’ve done it all over the world. But if it’s your first solo trip, I totally get how it might feel a little nerve-wracking or awkward at first.

My number one tip? Bring a book or, even better, a Kindle. They’re lightweight, travel-friendly, and there’s nothing like getting lost in a great story to help you feel less self-conscious about eating alone.

If you’d rather people watch than read, try grabbing a table outside on the Riva or in an square in Old Town so you can observe the city while you eat.

It can also help to eat during off-peak hours when restaurants are quieter, or ask for a bar seat or small table, which feels way more natural when dining solo. And don’t forget—nobody cares that you’re alone. Just relax, order something delicious, and enjoy the moment.

Protect Your Trip with Travel Insurance

Whenever I plan a trip, I always make sure to protect myself and my wallet with travel insurance. I’ve always booked travel insurance before trips, but I had to learn the hard way that not all travel insurance programs are created equal.

During the two months I lived in Thailand in 2022, I injured my foot on a weekend trip to Khao Sok National Park, which led to four months of limping around Southeast Asia and an eventual surgery in Canggu.

Since I was buying travel insurance month-to-month through AXA, none of my surgery was covered and I was out $3,500—even though I had active travel insurance at the time.

Since then, I started traveling with SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance. It’s perfect for both short-term travelers and digital nomads since you can tailor it exactly to your dates and needs.

You can use it as a monthly subscription (what I usually do), or pay in full for a set date range. You can also take advantage of their useful add-ons like U.S. coverage (not for U.S. citizens, unfortunately), adventure sports, and electronics theft! Grab a quote below for your next trip 👇🏼

Split Is Just the Beginning

It’s been an honor and a privilege to explore Croatia as much as I have over the years, and I hope this post helps you plan an unforgettable trip of your own!

You don’t need an S/O or a huge group of friends to enjoy the best things to do in Split. Whether you’re wandering the marble streets of Old Town, climbing Marjan Hill for sunset, or making new friends on an island cruise, solo traveling to Split is the perfect mix of fun, culture, and adventure.

But honestly, Split is just the beginning.

There are so many incredible solo travel destinations waiting to be explored across Europe and beyond. If you’re just getting started with solo travel—or even if you’re already hooked—I’d love for you to follow along on my blog by joining my newsletter.

Let’s keep discovering this beautiful world together, one solo trip at a time ❤️

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