What to Do in Just One Day in Split, Croatia

Cruise Port Split, Croatia

Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, located on the Dalmatian Coast along the Adriatic Sea. Its seaside setting, historic old town, and sunny climate make it a popular stop for Mediterranean cruises. The cruise port is conveniently situated just at the edge of the city center, making Split an easy place to explore during a quick port stop.

How to Provide Transportation in Split, Croatia Cruise Port?

Can I Walk From Split, Croatia Cruise Port to City Center?

The Split cruise port puts you within easy walking distance of the main attractions in town. It's just a 5-10 minute stroll from your ship to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace in the heart of Split. Simply walk straight up the Riva seaside promenade and you'll reach the entrance to the palace. From there, you can wander the cobblestone streets and marble walkways through this ancient complex filled with restaurants, shops, and historic sites.

Public buses and taxis are available right outside the port gates if you need to go farther, but Split is very compact and walkable from the cruise terminal. There are also travel agencies at the port that offer guided walking tours originating right where your ship docks. With its proximity to the city center, Split's port makes it a breeze for cruise travelers to start exploring as soon as they step off the boat.

What are the nearest attractions to Split, Croatia Cruise Port

Visit the Diocletian's Palace

Built around 300 AD for the Roman emperor Diocletian, this vast palace complex forms the heart of Split's old town area. Wandering through the palace's narrow cobblestone streets is like stepping back in time two millennia. Admire preserved architectural details like Diocletian's original basement, as well as medieval additions like St. Dominus Cathedral, which was built within the ruins. Don't miss the Peristyle, an open courtyard where you can see the elaborate columns and arches of the emperor’s former residence.

Visit St. Dominus Cathedral

This imposing cathedral was constructed in the Middle Ages using stones and columns from the original Diocletian's Palace. Step inside to see the cathedral's altar and bell tower, along with an elaborately carved marble pulpit dating to the 13th century. The cathedral also houses the Cappella di San Arnir, which contains the relics and grave of Bishop Arnir, Split's patron saint.

Peristyle Square

The open courtyard of the Peristyle stands as one of the best preserved areas of Diocletian’s Palace. Stroll around this picturesque square surrounded by towering marble columns and ornate stone carvings. Historically this was the central meeting point of the palace, which you can easily imagine as you take in the architectural grandeur of the space today.

Split Riva Promenade

Stretching along the waterfront with buzzing cafes and restaurants, the Riva provides beautiful views over Split Harbor and the Adriatic Sea. It's just a short walk from your cruise ship to soak up seaside scenery and people-watching opportunities along the Riva promenade.

Places to Visit in Split

Marjan Hill

For amazing panoramas over Split, head to Marjan Hill on the western edge of the peninsula. Walk, take a taxi, or hop on public bus #12 from the city center to reach this natural getaway. Hiking trails wind through pine forests leading to scenic lookout points. Enjoy views over Split's old town and harbor framed by the Dalmatian Coast mountains and islands.

Klis Fortress

Just a 20-minute drive inland above Split sits this imposing medieval fortress perched on a limestone cliff. Once the seat of Croatian kings, it's worth a quick side trip to explore Klis Fortress’ citadel, bastions, and ruins. The fortress also played a role as the fictional city of Meereen in Game of Thrones.

Krka National Park

For a touch of natural beauty, visit Krka National Park, home to stunning waterfalls and lakes. Located just over an hour from Split by organized tour bus, Krka National Park offers pleasant hikes along boardwalks and bridges that meander by cascading falls and azure waters. Swimming is also allowed in some areas.

With its wealth of Roman ruins, medieval architecture, charming promenade, and proximity to beaches and scenery, Split provides the ideal one-day Mediterranean port stop. A quick walk from ship to shore puts the best of this historic seaside city within easy reach.

FAQs

Where is Split Cruise Port located?

Split's cruise port is situated on the western shore of Split Harbor, right next to the city's Old Town and UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace site.

What cruise lines visit Split Cruise Port?

Popular cruise lines calling on Split include Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Silversea.

How far is the port from the center?

Split's port is extremely close to the main attractions, just a 5-10 minute walk along the harborfront Riva promenade into the heart of town.