Historical, Cultural and Natural Heritage of Croatia: Top 10 Must-See Locations near Split

With its coastline stretching along the Adriatic Sea, the Dalmatia region has always been a favorite destination for travelers worldwide. It is well known for its hundreds of beautiful islands, islets, and shores, mild Mediterranean climate, rich and tasty traditional cuisine, crystal-clear blue sea, and friendly locals. As its largest city, Split has the honor of being the true heart of this region. And while the city of Split has everything needed for an idyllic dream vacation, its surroundings hide numerous gems worth exploring. We have selected 10 cities and locations in Dalmatia that are worth visiting and are located in the near (and little further) vicinity of Split.

1. Archaeological Site of Salona & Klis Fortress

Archeological sites of Salona and Kliss fortress are located in the near vicinity of Split, which means they can be visited on the same day. The archeological site of Salona, located just 6 km from Split, will take you back to the time of the Roman Empire when a town of 60,000 inhabitants once stood there. This historical site was a thriving Roman city and the main cultural, trade, and political settlement in Dalmatia. Today, Salona offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the rich history of the region. You can explore the ruins of the amphitheater, baths, temples, and other archaeological remains that testify to the grandeur and complexity of ancient life in Salona. 

Twenty minutes north of Split is the Klis Fortress, which played a significant role in the history of Dalmatia. In addition to offering a spectacular view of Split and the surrounding area, Klis is a cultural gem with a rich past. It gained its fame during the period of Ottoman wars when the fortress captain Petar Kružić and his soldiers resisted the attempts of Ottomans to conquer it for decades, until it finally fell into Turkish hands in 1537. In 1648, the fortress was captured by the Venetians so its present look dates from the time of the last Venetian renovation. Klis Fortress gained popularity among fans of the TV series “Game of Thrones” as it served as a filming location for the city of Meereen. 

From the fortress, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Split, Solin, Kaštela, and the islands of Brač, Hvar, Šolta, and Vis. 

2. City of Omiš

The City of Omiš, located just 25 km south of Split, offers the perfect blend of sea, river, and mountains.  Omiš is known for its rich cultural heritage and a long history dating back over 2,000 years to ancient times. The old residents of Omiš were renowned pirates, and throughout the 12th and 13th centuries, they ruled the seas from Split to Dubrovnik. Nowadays, Omiš is a peaceful town known for its summer festivals, concerts, and other events. The Festival of Dalmatian Klapa Music is a hallmark of culture in Croatia and takes place during the summer months in Omiš. If you have the opportunity, be sure to attend this night of a cappella singing, which is inscribed on UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Other summer events in Omiš include the Omiš Cultural Summer, Pirate Battle, the “Ostinato” Chamber Music Festival, fishing nights in Mimice and Medići, and many other events that will bring you closer to the traditions of this area.  

For those seeking adventure and recreation, Omiš offers a variety of sports activities on the Cetina River, including rafting and canyoning, as well as many hiking trails. In late autumn, you can participate in the manual olive harvest, after which each visitor receives a bottle of olive oil. 

Regardless of the season, a stroll through the town center of Omiš, with its narrow stone streets, small shops, and restaurants, is a must. Exploring the old town allows you to immerse yourself in the history and architecture of this Dalmatian city. To enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the town of Omiš, the Cetina River, and the surrounding area, you can hike up to the Fortica fortress. The view from this point, especially during sunset, is incredible and often leaves visitors in awe.

3. City of Trogir

A visit to Trogir is another fantastic excursion that takes you through the rich cultural and historical heritage of this beautiful Dalmatian town. Trogir is located approximately 30 kilometers north of Split and is easily accessible by road or boat. Spend a day exploring the historical core of Trogir which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and is one of the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complexes in Europe. Walking through its narrow streets and squares gives you a feeling of traveling back in time, far into the past.

The main square, Trg Ivana Pavla II, is surrounded by cafes and restaurants and is the perfect place to enjoy local cuisine. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a part of the historic core of Trogir. Its fascinating architecture and sculptures attract visitors from all over the world. To make the trip even more memorable, visit the cathedral’s 47-meter-high tower and enjoy the spectacular view of Trogir and the surroundings. Another monument worth seeing is The Duke’s Palace, a historical palace located in the very center of the city, once serving as the residence of the rulers of Trogir. Today, it hosts numerous artistic and cultural events and is also a museum complex that allows visitors to delve into the city’s rich history. 

Don’t forget to visit the local markets and taste fresh local products, including fruits and vegetables, fish, as well as cheeses, olives, and other delicacies. To conclude your visit, take a stroll along the waterfront and enjoy the view of the crystal-clear sea and nearby islands that will provide a sense of relaxation and peace. If you visit this city in the summer, you can also take a swim in the sea.

4. The town of Sinj

The town of Sinj, located about a 40-minute drive from Split, is the most famous for the Alka of Sinj, a knightly game that has been held in Sinj since the early 18th century to commemorate the victory over the Ottomans. The Alka is also run in honor of the Virgin Mary, who is believed to have saved the town during these hard times. The Alka of Sinj is listed as part of UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage. It takes place every year on the first Sunday in August, attracting a multitude of visitors from Croatia and around the world. The competitors in the Alka are called “alkari.” They ride horses at full gallop and must aim their spare at the center of a small iron ring called the “alka,” which is positioned 3 meters above the ground. After the Alka is over, the winner proudly carries the Croatian flag through the town.  

Among the other attractions and monuments, it is recommended to visit the Church of Our Lady of Sinj. Additionally, there’s the medieval fortress on the hill above Sinj known as Stari Grad (Old Town). Along the path leading from the base to the church on the fortress, there are 14 Stations of the Cross. Each station is a work by one of Croatia’s most renowned artists. The Stari Grad fortress and cemetery are protected by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Croatia. 

5. Makarska riviera

Stretching for over 53 km along the Adriatic coast, at the foot of the magnificent mountain Biokovo, Makarska Riviera is considered one of the most attractive parts of the Split-Dalmatian County and is known for its numerous attractive beaches with natural pine tree shades. Some of the most famous places on the Riviera include Tučepi, Podgora, Brela, and Baška Voda, all situated in close proximity to the city of Makarska, which is the heart of the Makarska Riviera.

The city of Makarska is made up of two peninsulas, Sveti Petar and Osejava. What makes this town so special are the beautiful viewpoints that offer spectacular views of the sea and the Biokovo mountain, which looms over this charming town. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to visit the Skywalk Biokovo, from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Makarska Riviera. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll be delighted by the wealth of beaches ranging from pebble to sandy, with the most famous among them being Nugal Beach. Another popular spot is the peninsula of St. Peter with its lighthouse, which has become a favorite location for many Instagram photos. 

6. Visit the nearby islands: Šolta, Brač, Hvar, Biševo or Vis

Croatia is known worldwide as a small country with a thousand islands, or more precisely, the Croatian archipelago consists of a total of 1,244 islands, islets, and rocks that make up nearly 6% of Croatia’s territory, and some of the most beautiful Croatian islands are located near Split. Thanks to excellent ferry connections, you can visit most of these islands directly from Split, and with well-planned excursions, you can even explore several of them in just one day. 

The island of Brač is known for its enchanting coves surrounded by pine and cypress forests. For centuries, the quarries around the town of Pučišća in the northern part of the island have provided the stone used by the locals to build their houses. This very stone has also been used in the construction of the White House in Washington D.C. and Diocletian’s Palace in Split. The oldest settlement on the island is Škrip, where you can find defensive walls of an Illyrian settlement dating back to the 3rd century. Additionally, the Island of Brač Museum is located here, housing a rich collection of stone and ethnographic artifacts from the island’s history. 

However, Brač is most famous for its beach, Zlatni rat, in the town of Bol, which is regularly listed among the top ten most beautiful beaches in the world. This beach has a distinctive shape that changes with the tide. Due to favorable winds, the beach is a favorite spot for windsurfing enthusiasts. If you enjoy hiking, you can climb to the top of Vidova Gora (778 meters), the highest peak on Brač and among the Adriatic islands. From there, you’ll be treated to an unforgettable view of the Adriatic Sea, the islands of Hvar, Šolta, and Vis, as well as the Mosor and Biokovo mountain ranges. 

The island of Hvar is one of the most famous Dalmatian islands, offering a unique blend of lush Mediterranean nature, rich cultural and historical heritage, and dynamic contemporary tourism, so it’s no wonder that it attracts numerous visitors seeking Mediterranean la ndscapes, rich traditions, diverse gastronomy, and vibrant nightlife. Hvar Island is often listed among the most beautiful islands in the world. 

No matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for, this island will meet your expectations. You can enjoy the lively nightlife and cosmopolitan architecture of Hvar Town, take boat trips to the Pakleni Islands, relax on sandy beaches near Jelsa, admire the “Little Venice” ambiance in Vrboska, drive through lavender fields near Gdinj, Zastražišće, and Bogomolje, and discover peaceful hidden coves around Sućuraj. These are just some of the experiences awaiting you on Hvar Island. 

The island of Vis is one of the furthest Croatian islands, yet that doesn’t deter numerous visitors from returning each year in increasing numbers. Its narrow streets, the scent of pine trees, beautiful stone houses, crystal-clear sea, and numerous secluded coves have earned it the reputation of being one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Meanwhile, the popular Stiniva Beach on the southern side of the island consistently finds its place on the list of the most beautiful European beaches. As access to the beach is only possible by boat or on foot through the Mediterranean karst terrain, this beach has managed to preserve its natural beauty. 

The two most famous settlements on the island of Vis are the towns of Vis and Komiža. If you visit the town of Vis, be sure to take a walk through its stone streets, explore ancient monuments, the fish market, numerous villas and palaces, important religious sites, and enjoy the natural surroundings in perfect harmony with the sea, stone, and Mediterranean vegetation. On the western coast of Vis, you’ll find the town of Komiža, one of the warmest towns on the Adriatic. The town is known for its fishing tradition, rich history, and enticing gastronomy. Komiža is often visited by adventurers who enjoy diving, hiking, speleology, and paragliding. Among the cultural attractions, it’s worth visiting the Church of St. Mary – Lady Pirate, and the Castle Grimaldi, a 16th-century fortress built by the Venetian authorities from the income of Komiža’s fishermen to defend the town against possible attacks by the Turks and pirates. Today, it houses the Fishing Museum. 

Biševo is an island in the Adriatic Sea, not far from Vis, known for its Blue Cave, Medvidina Cave, the Mali Plavac wine, and stunning sandy beaches. The island covers an area of approximately 6 square kilometers, and it is home to around 15 people throughout the year. The island is most famous for its Blue Cave, which captivates numerous visitors with its beauty. The cave is located on the eastern side of the island and got its name from the shimmer it takes on around noon when the sun’s rays, under calm sea conditions, penetrate the underwater entrance, reflect off the white seabed, and give the cave its distinctive blue hue. 

The island of Šolta is situated near Split, just nine nautical miles away, and due to its excellent ferry connections, it’s often referred to as a suburb of Split. In addition to its beautiful beaches, such as those in Maslinica, Rogač, and Stomorska, Šolta is a paradise for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a multitude of walking and biking trails, as well as the possibility to enjoy activities such as fishing and diving.  

Due to its rich history, every town on Šolta boasts a cultural heritage worth visiting. The island is also home to numerous family-owned agricultural estates where you can learn about olive oil production, winemaking, and honey production. In the many restaurants and taverns, you can savor local delicacies, especially seafood dishes seasoned with indigenous olive oil. Šolta is a charming destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and a taste of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. 

7. Krka National Park & City of Šibenik

In Šibenik-Knin County, approximately an hour’s drive from Split, you’ll find Krka National Park, a natural oasis ideal for those looking to explore the untouched nature of Dalmatia. This national park amazes its visitors with 17 waterfalls, some of which are as high as 50 meters. The main attractions of the park are its seven waterfalls, with Roški Waterfall being the widest and Skradinski Buk the largest and most famous. 

Among the abundant plant and animal life, one of the most notable is the iris, or perunika, which holds the reputation of being the “Croatian national flower.” The national park stretches along the Krka River and, in addition to its natural beauty, encompasses cultural and historical landmarks, with the Franciscan monastery on Visovac Island being one of the highlights. The monastery also houses an art gallery, and visitors can explore the church, which dates back to the 14th century. 

Along the Krka River canyon, you’ll find old mills that have been transformed into ethnographic museums, allowing visitors to see how grain used to be ground by the locals. Krka National Park provides you with an opportunity to connect with nature and spend a day far from the hustle of the city. Strolling through dense forests and bathing in Krka’s lakes make this park truly special. 

After your excursion, on your way back to Split, we recommend taking a tour of the city of Šibenik, which is about a 20-minute drive from the national park. Šibenik is one of the oldest Croatian cities, rich with history and cultural heritage, which is best seen in the fact that just the city’s historic center is comprised of 24 churches, 17 palaces, 6 monasteries, museums, galleries, and numerous other attractions. 

When visiting Šibenik, be sure to explore two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The Cathedral of St. James and St. Nicholas’ Fortress. If you’re visiting in the summer months, don’t miss the chance to swim at the famous Banj Beach, which offers a unique view of the old city center. 

8. City of Zadar

The city of Zadar is a bit further away, approximately 160 kilometers from the city of Split. However, a visit to this famous Dalmatian city is well worth it because Zadar is like an open-air museum, delighting its visitors with numerous cultural and historical attractions. 

Zadar has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2017, primarily due to its 3-kilometer-long city walls that surround the Zadar peninsula. These walls were built in the 16th century by the Republic of Venice for defense against the Ottomans. Among other highlights, you’ll find the Roman Forum, the main square where the city’s public life took place, located in front of the Church of St. Donatus and the Archbishop’s Palace. 

Another attraction in the heart of Zadar is the Kneževo Palace, which covers an area of 2,000 square meters and combines a museum space, an atrium, a concert hall, rooms for temporary exhibitions, a video gallery, and a multimedia hall.   

Among the most famous modern attractions in Zadar are the Sea Organ, a sound art object, and the installation of the Greeting to the Sun. The Sea Organ art object consists of stone steps that stretch along almost seventy meters of the coast. Below them, 35 pipes of different lengths, diameters, and gradients are installed. When the waves push air through them, they emit sounds, and each sea organ concert is unique and unrepeatable. The Greeting to the Sun installation consists of three hundred layered glass plates set at the same level as the stone-paved waterfront in the shape of a 22-meter-diameter circle. Solar modules are placed under the glass plates to establish a symbolic connection with nature. Here, you can experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in Croatia. 

9. National Park Plitvice Lakes

A visit to Plitvice Lakes offers you the opportunity to experience one of Croatia’s most impressive natural treasures. Plitvice Lakes is a national park located approximately 250 kilometers northwest of Split, and although the distance may sound significant, it is well worth every kilometer considering that this area is among the most beautiful natural landmarks in Europe. The national park consists of a forested mountainous landscape with 16 stunning lakes and ponds of crystal-clear, turquoise-blue water. These lakes are fed by numerous rivers and streams connected by cascades and waterfalls. The park is also home to a variety of plant species, and the rich fauna includes some of Europe’s largest mammals, such as brown bears, wolves, and lynxes. Their symbiosis with nature, the captivating beauty of the park, and its unique ecosystem create an incredible natural spectacle. Take a walk on the wooden paths that lead around the lakes and over the rivers to enjoy the view of the turquoise waters and lush forests. Here, you will experience the magic of nature at its best. 

Zadar has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since July 2017, primarily due to its 3-kilometer-long city walls that surround the Zadar peninsula. These walls were built in the 16th century by the Republic of Venice for defense against the Ottomans. Among other highlights, you’ll find the Roman Forum, the main square where the city’s public life took place, located in front of the Church of St. Donatus and the Archbishop’s Palace. 

10. City of Dubrovnik

For many people, when they think of Croatia, the city of Dubrovnik comes to mind first. Although from Split it will take you 3 to 3.5 hours to get to this city in southern Croatia, a visit to Dubrovnik can be an unforgettable experience, as it is one of the most beautiful cities on the Adriatic coast. This city, nestled at the foot of Mount Srđ, is full of landmarks and monuments from its rich history. It is precisely from the Srđ that you can enjoy magnificent views of the city, which makes it a favorite spot for many visitors to capture beautiful photographs. 

Among the other attractions, it is recommended to visit the old town of Dubrovnik, which you enter through the city gates of Pile and Ploče. On the right side of the Pile Gate, you will find the Lovrijenac Fort, one of the symbols of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. On the left side, you will find the highest city tower, Minčeta. The city’s historic core is surrounded by monumental walls that are almost two kilometers long, and by passing through the city gates, you will reach the Stradun, the main street of Dubrovnik. A walk through this stone-paved street will reveal numerous other attractions, such as the Franciscan Church and Monastery, which houses the oldest pharmacy in the world dating back to the 14th century. You will also come across the Large and Small Onofrio’s Fountains and Orlando’s Column, which is a symbol of freedom. In this area, you will also find the Sponza Palace, which once served as a customs house, and the City Bell Tower with a clock. Spend your day exploring the old town, walking on the city walls, and enjoying the beautiful sea views. 

With its excellent location, Split serves as an ideal starting point for exploring many destinations and cities that are just a short (or slightly longer) drive from the city center. Let Marvie Hotel & Health be your base for exploring these beautiful destinations, and our friendly staff will assist you in creating the perfect excursion. After a day of sightseeing, return to the hotel and have a break in our wellness zone. Here, you will find everything you need for complete relaxation after an active day. 

This post is also available in: CRO

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