The 9 Best Hikes In Split

Located on the world-famous Dalmatian Coast, Split, Croatia, is a city that has a lot to offer. Split has fascinating history, excellent food, and a laid-back vibe that can be hard to find in other European cities of a similar size. But the main thing that sets Split apart is the gorgeous nature that surrounds the city, including stunning beaches and incredible mountain hiking trails.

In fact, the Split area is home to some of the best hiking trails in all of Croatia, if not the Balkans as a whole. If you're looking for great hikes with incredible views from the surrounding mountains or leisurely walks along the stunning coast, you'll find them here. Enjoying nature on a good hike is incredibly easy from Split, and many of the best hiking trails in and around the city are easily accessible via public transport.

Tourists flock to Split to enjoy beautiful views from the many trails that surround the city. Maybe on your next trip to Croatia, you'll be joining them. But before you do, don't forget to drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage in Split so that you're not carrying more than you need to. Traveling light will make it much easier to enjoy the best beaches and mountains Split, Croatia, has to offer. Plus, these hiking trails are some of the best free things to do in Split, helping to save you money as well as get some exercise and enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

Our Top Hiking Trail Picks in Split

Split Old Town

You don't need to go a long way from the city to get some miles in. Split's Old Town is a fascinating place to visit, and you can easily take an easy hike through the city for two hours or more that will let you see many of Split's top attractions. Plus, you'll be able to take a break in the countless bars and restaurants in the city and even enjoy the best brunch in Split while on a hike through the city center.

If you want to see everything that the Old Town has to offer, start your hike at Diocletian's Palace, one of the most significant Roman ruins in the world that's also included on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Then, descend back down into town via the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, said to be one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the world. If you still have energy after all that, consider adding on a visit to Grgur Ninski Statue or Mestrovic Gallery to complete your tour of the city. For extra steps, you can walk the ten minutes from the gallery around the Split Port for some more scenic views.

Marjan Hill

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, consider heading to Marjan Hill. This popular nature park is located just a short walk from the Old Town and offers stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. The hike to the top is about an hour, but it's relatively easy since it's not too steep. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy a picnic lunch with a view or even take a dip in one of the many swimming holes.

There are also several churches located on Marjan Hill, including Saint Stephen's Cathedral, which is worth a visit if you're interested in religious history. Be sure to also check out the Mausoleum of Bishop Grgur Ninski, a beautiful tomb located in the park that's one of the most popular tourist attractions in Split.

Baska Voda

If you're looking to escape the city for a day or two, consider heading to Baska Voda, a small town located about an hour south of Split. The drive is stunning, and once you arrive in Baska Voda, you can enjoy a number of different hikes through the surrounding mountains. There are several different trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. No matter which trail you pick, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of the Adriatic Sea.

One of the best things about Baska Voda is that it's not as crowded as some of the other hiking spots near Split. So if you're looking for a more peaceful experience, this is the place for you.

Krk Waterfalls

If you're willing to venture a little further from Split, consider heading to Krk Island, located about four hours away by car. Krk is a beautiful island with plenty of things to see and do, but one of the highlights is definitely the Krk Waterfalls. These waterfalls are located in a picturesque canyon and can be reached by an easy hike that takes about an hour.

The best time to visit the Krk Waterfalls is during the spring when the water is at its highest. However, even during the summer, when the water level is lower, the Krk Waterfalls are still an impressive sight. If you're looking for a truly unique experience, consider swimming in the pool at the base of the waterfall. Just be sure to take caution as the rocks can be slippery.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Next on our list of the best hikes near Split is Plitvice Lakes National Park. This national park is located about two and a half hours away by car and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia. The park is home to a number of different hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. No matter which trail you choose, you'll be rewarded with incredible views of waterfalls, lakes, and forests.

One of the best things about Plitvice Lakes National Park is that there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a relaxing experience, consider taking a boat ride through the park. Or, if you're feeling more adventurous, you can hike to the top of one of the many waterfalls.

Mosor Mountain

This mountain is located about half an hour away by car and offers stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. The hike to the top of the mountain is relatively easy and takes about two hours. Once you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with incredible views in every direction.

If you're looking for a challenging hike, consider descending into one of the many caves that are located on Mosor Mountain. These caves are home to a number of different species of bats, so be sure to take caution if you're afraid of heights.

Fortica

This hike is perfect for those who are looking for a challenge. The trail to the top of Fortica is steep and can be difficult to navigate. However, the views from the top are more than worth it. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Italy.

The Fortica is an impressive 15th-century fortification built to defend the coastline from piracy and invasion. As you'd expect, the views from the top of the Adriatic Sea are absolutely incredible. This walk combines physical activity and incredible nature with some fascinating history, so it's a great one to take when visiting Split.

The hike starts in Omis Old Town, although you can save yourself some distance by driving to the parking lot at the base of the mountain. If you're up for more of a challenge, you can also take on the more demanding Imber trail, which climbs to a height of 3566 feet or 1087 meters, and is best left to experienced hikers.

Biokovo Nature Park

This incredible nature park is located around two hours away by car from Split. Biokovo Nature Park is home to a number of different hikes, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. No matter what your level of experience, you'll be able to find a hike that's perfect for you.

One of the best things about Biokovo Nature Park is the diversity of landscapes. You'll find everything from forests and meadows to rocky peaks and cliffs. And, of course, the views are absolutely incredible. If you're lucky, you might even spot some wildlife during your hike.

Brac Island

Last on our list of the best hikes near Split is Brac Island. This island is located about an hour away by boat and is home to a number of different hiking trails. The most popular trail is the one that leads to Vidova Gora, the highest point on the island.

The hike to Vidova Gora is fairly challenging, but the views from the top are more than worth it. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Italian coast. If you're looking for an easier hike, consider taking the trail that leads to Zlatni Rat Beach. This beach is one of the most popular in Croatia and is well worth a visit.

Brac Island is full of different hiking trails that can challenge just about every level of walker from beginner to advanced, so it's definitely a place worth adding to your list when visiting Split. This popular spot has a little something to offer just about everyone, so you'll find ways to enjoy nature on this beautiful island no matter what your fitness level may be.

Easy Hikes in Split

If you're looking for an easy hike, consider taking the trail that leads to Zlatni Rat Beach. This beach is one of the most popular in Croatia and is well worth a visit. The hike is relatively flat and easy to follow, making it a great option for those who are looking for a relaxing experience.

Another easy hike near Split is the one that leads to Omis Old Town. This short and sweet walk takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area and is perfect for those who want to take in the sights without too much physical activity.

Intermediate Hikes in Split

A great option for intermediate hikers is the trail to the top of Fortica. This hike is fairly steep and can be difficult to navigate. However, the views from the top are definitely worth it. Plus, the ancient fortress is a fascinating place to explore in its own right, and the difficulty of the hike to the top means you'll probably have the place almost to yourself.

Difficult Hikes in Split

If you're looking for something a little more challenging, take on the Imber trail. This trail is located on Mosor Mountain and is best left to experienced hikers. The views from the top are absolutely incredible, so it's definitely worth the effort.

For advanced hikers, we also recommend checking out Biokovo Nature Park. This park is home to a number of different hikes, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Biokovo Nature Park also has a wonderful diversity of landscapes to keep you interested as you navigate the trails. Always watch your step, but try to keep an eye out for some local wildlife as well.

Conclusion

Ultimately, this list can only really scratch the surface of the hundreds of hiking trails you'll find in and around Split. Whether you want to climb Marjan Hill to enjoy the stunning views or challenge yourself in Biokovo Nature Park, you'll find what you're looking for on the Dalmatian coast. And many of the hikes on this list can be reached by public transport, so don't forget to check out our guide on how to get around Split for more information.

Drop off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage and get ready to enjoy olive groves, wineries, secluded beaches, and a jaw-dropping rocky coastline that you won't soon forget. A walking holiday in Split is the perfect way to experience the best of what Croatia has to offer, and an unforgettable encounter with nature in this spectacular country.