Split 3 Day Itinerary: A Palace, Islands and the Riva
Sofia Laurent· Europe Editor
Updated September 25, 2026 · 5 min read
Split grew inside Diocletian's Palace — a 4th-century Roman emperor's retirement home that became the old town. The Riva promenade fronts the ferries to Hvar, Brač and Vis.
At roughly €110 a day, the trip runs about €330 excluding flights.
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Diocletian's Palace is the old town: peristyle cafés, the temple-turned-baptistery, and basement markets. Arrive at dawn — the peristyle is empty and the light is perfect.
The Islands
The catamarans to Hvar (1h) and Brač's Zlatni Rat (45min) run from the Riva. Both are day trips; Hvar for the lavender and nightlife, Brač for the beach.
Your 3 Days in Split
Palace (1), islands (2), fortress (3).
Day 1 · The Palace
Diocletian's dawn, the Riva, Marjan Hill.
Day 2 · Island Day
Hvar or Brač by catamaran.
Day 3 · Fortress & Farewell
Klis Fortress; Bačvice beach; SPU.
Practical planning info
Money
- About €110/day at planning figures; catamarans €15–40.
- The palace is free to explore; museums €5–10 each.
When
- May–June and September–October are ideal.
- July–August is peak cruise season.
Frequently asked questions
Is 3 days enough for Split?
Yes — the palace, one island day and the fortress fit comfortably.
Hvar or Brač?
Hvar for the lavender and nightlife; Brač for the Zlatni Rat beach.
How much does 3 days in Split cost?
About €330 excluding flights at our €110/day planning estimate.
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