Family-friendly activities in Split and Why Split is the Perfect Family Holiday Destination
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia with your family, Split should be at the top of your list. This beautiful coastal city isn’t just about stunning beaches and ancient ruins – it’s packed with kid-friendly adventures, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences that the whole family will love.
What makes Split a fantastic choice for a family holiday?
- It’s safe and easy to explore. The Old Town is walkable, public transport is reliable, and everything is family-friendly.
- Great mix of history and fun. Kids won’t just be staring at old buildings – they’ll be exploring ancient palaces, climbing fortress walls, and even going on pirate adventures.
- Plenty of outdoor activities. From boat trips to national parks, Split has endless fun under the sun.
Now, let me take you through five must-do family activities in Split that will keep your kids entertained while giving you a chance to soak in Croatia’s stunning landscapes and history.
1. Explore Diocletian’s Palace Like a Time Traveler 🏰
You can’t visit Split without stepping into the legendary Diocletian’s Palace. This isn’t just a boring historical site – it’s like walking into a medieval movie set! Kids will love the narrow alleyways, hidden courtyards, and mysterious underground cellars.
💡 Fun for Kids:
- Let them pretend to be knights and princesses inside the old walls.
- Visit Vestibul, where street performers often sing traditional Dalmatian songs.
- Play hide-and-seek in the underground cellars – great for escaping the heat!
🎭 Bonus: If your kids love Game of Thrones, tell them this is where some scenes of Meereen were filmed!
2. Visit Marjan Hill for Outdoor Fun 🌿🏃♂️
If your kids need to burn off energy, take them to Marjan Hill – the green lungs of Split. It’s a giant park with hiking trails, playgrounds, and breathtaking viewpoints. The best part? No cars, just fresh air and nature!
🌳 Things to Do at Marjan Hill:
- Rent bikes and ride through scenic forest paths.
- Visit Bene Beach – a hidden, family-friendly beach inside the park.
- Climb up to the Vidilica viewpoint for an epic panoramic view of Split.
🚴 Pro Tip: If you have little kids, rent a golf cart instead of hiking to the top!
3. Take a Boat Trip to the Blue Lagoon 🚤
A trip to Split wouldn’t be complete without a family-friendly boat adventure! The Blue Lagoon, located between Drvenik Veli and Krknjaši islands, is a paradise with shallow turquoise waters, soft sandy seabeds, and plenty of fish swimming around.
🐠 Why Your Family Will Love It:
- Kids can snorkel and swim in crystal-clear waters.
- Parents can relax on the boat while enjoying stunning island views.
- Some tours stop at Šolta or Drvenik Veli, where you can grab ice cream and explore small fishing villages.
🌞 Best Tip: Book a half-day boat tour so kids don’t get too tired.
4. Have a Splash at Bačvice Beach 🏖️
If you’re traveling with younger kids, you’ll need a beach that’s safe and fun. Bačvice Beach is THE place for families because of its shallow, calm waters and soft sandy shore.
🏄♂️ What Makes Bačvice Special?
- It’s shallow enough for toddlers to splash around safely.
- Locals play Picigin, a fun game where players hit a ball in the air without letting it fall in the water – your kids will love trying it!
- Plenty of cafés and ice cream shops nearby for snacks and refreshments.
🌅 Alternative: If you want a quieter beach, Kašjuni Beach is another great option!
5. Discover Frogs, Pirates, and Dino Parks! 🐸🏴☠️🦖
For something different, Split has some quirky kid-friendly attractions that you might not expect:
🐸 Froggyland – Yes, it’s a museum entirely dedicated to frogs! Your kids will either love it or laugh hysterically. This quirky attraction in Split showcases over 500 stuffed frogs arranged in hilarious human-like scenarios, from classrooms to circus performances. It’s weird, unique, and oddly fascinating!
🦁 Split Zoo & Marjan Animal Sanctuary – Located on Marjan Hill, this small zoo is home to rescued animals like deer, goats, and peacocks. It’s a peaceful spot for young kids to interact with animals while enjoying a nature walk.
🎭 Museum of Illusions Split – A mind-bending adventure where kids can explore optical illusions, holograms, and interactive exhibits. It’s fun, educational, and perfect for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun.
How to Travel to Split with Kids? ✈️🚗
Getting to Split with kids is easy, and once you arrive, moving around is super convenient.
✈️ By Plane: Split Airport (SPU) is well-connected to major European cities.
🚗 By Car: Renting a car is great for day trips, but inside Split, walking is best.
🚌 By Bus: Public transport is reliable and affordable, with frequent buses to beaches and parks.
👶 Family-Friendly Tip: Most hotels and Airbnbs in Split offer baby cribs and family-sized rooms – just check before booking!
Where to Stay in Split with Your Family 🏨👨👩👧👦
Finding the right family-friendly accommodation in Split can make your holiday even more enjoyable. Luckily, Split has plenty of comfortable, convenient, and fun places to stay, whether you want to be close to the beach, in the heart of the Old Town, or at a luxury resort. Here are some great options:
🏡 Luxury Apartments Villa Mala Split (Bačvice) – If you love the idea of staying near the beach, these stylish apartments in Bačvice offer spacious rooms and modern amenities, perfect for families who want easy access to the sea.
🌊 Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split (Žnjan) – This luxury beachfront hotel is perfect for families looking for relaxation and convenience. With a kid-friendly pool, on-site restaurants, and direct beach access, it’s a great choice for a stress-free stay.
🏰 Heritage Hotel Antique Split (Old Town) – Want to be in the heart of history? This charming boutique hotel sits inside Diocletian’s Palace, giving you the chance to wake up surrounded by ancient Roman walls while enjoying modern comforts.
No matter where you stay, Split has something for every family, whether you’re looking for beachside relaxation, cultural charm, or luxury living.
Why Split is the Best Family Holiday Spot
Split is not just a city for history buffs and beach lovers – it’s a dream destination for families. Whether you’re exploring ancient palaces, hiking up Marjan Hill, sailing to dreamy islands, or splashing in the Adriatic, Split has endless fun for kids and parents alike.
So pack your bags, grab some sunscreen, and get ready for a family adventure you’ll never forget!
Frequently Asked Questions About Family-Friendly Activities in Split
Is Split a good destination for families with kids?
Yes! Split is safe, walkable, and packed with family-friendly activities like beaches, boat trips, and outdoor adventures.
What are the best things to do in Split with kids?
Some of the best family-friendly activities include:
– Exploring Diocletian’s Palace.
– Hiking and biking on Marjan Hill.
– Taking a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon.
– Swimming at Bačvice Beach.
Are there child-friendly restaurants in Split?
Absolutely! Many restaurants in Split offer kids’ menus, high chairs, and fresh Mediterranean food like pasta, grilled fish, and homemade pizza.
What is the best time to visit Split with kids?
The best time to visit is May to September, when the weather is warm but not too hot. June and September are ideal – fewer crowds and pleasant temperatures.
Do I need a car in Split?
No, you don’t need a car inside Split, as most attractions are walkable. But if you plan day trips to national parks or islands, renting a car can be useful.
