Split in 3 days: the perfect itinerary

Three days is the sweet spot for Split: one for the living Roman palace at its heart, one to escape to an island, and one for the museums, beaches and the Roman capital next door. Here's an itinerary with timings that actually work.

Day 1 — Diocletian's Palace & the old town

Start early inside Diocletian's Palace before the cruise crowds: the peristyle, the cathedral (the emperor's former mausoleum) and its bell tower, the cool underground cellars. Wander the marble lanes, lunch in a konoba, then walk the Riva waterfront. Finish with sunset on the Marjan hill above town. Our Split museums guide covers the palace in depth.

Day 2 — An island day trip

Catch a morning ferry out. The easiest big hitters are Brač (for Bol and the Zlatni Rat beach) or Hvar (for the harbour town and lavender). Travelling light, take a fast catamaran; back for a late dinner in Split. The full island hopping guide helps you choose.

Day 3 — Museums, Salona & beaches

Morning: the seaside Meštrović Gallery and, if you like ruins, the vast Roman capital of Salona at Solin with the Klis fortress above it (short bus rides out). Afternoon: swim at Bačvice or the pine-backed Kašjuni cove. A relaxed konoba dinner closes the trip.

Pick your base from our boutique hotels in Split — staying in or near the old town saves you time on all three days.