Best Day Trips from Split by Car
Split is one of the best base cities for exploring the Dalmatian coast. With a rental car, you can reach waterfalls, medieval towns, island beaches, and hidden canyons — all in a single day, at your own pace.
Many visitors decide to rent a car in Split downtown for a day or two specifically to explore some of the region's most beautiful destinations. With your own car, you're not tied to tour schedules or bus timetables — you can travel at your own pace, stop wherever you like, and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
Renting a Car in Split City Center
Many travelers prefer to rent a car in Split city center rather than at the airport, especially if they're already staying in the city. Our M.A.C.K. Rent a Car office located in Hotel Park Split, near Bačvice Beach, is a convenient pickup point for guests staying in nearby hotels, apartments, or arriving from the ferry port.
From here, you can quickly reach the main coastal roads and start your day trip without navigating through busy airport traffic. Before you head out, check our guide on driving in Split for parking tips and local road advice.
Top Mainland Day Trips
🌊 Krka National Park — ~1 hour
One of the most popular day trips from Split is Krka National Park. The park is famous for its spectacular waterfalls, wooden walking trails, and beautiful natural scenery. It's one of Croatia's most visited national parks and a perfect place to spend a relaxing day in nature.
🏛️ Trogir — ~30 minutes
Just 30 minutes from Split, Trogir is a charming historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its narrow stone streets, medieval architecture, and seaside promenade make it an easy and rewarding half-day trip. It's one of those places that consistently delights visitors — compact, beautiful, and very walkable.
🏞️ Omiš — ~40 minutes
Located where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea, Omiš offers a completely different landscape from the rest of the Dalmatian coast. The dramatic cliffs surrounding the town create a stunning setting, and visitors can enjoy rafting on the Cetina River, boat trips, or simply relaxing along the coast.
🏖️ Makarska Riviera — ~1 hour
If you continue driving south from Omiš, you'll reach the Makarska Riviera, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water, and impressive views of the Biokovo mountains. It's one of the most scenic coastal drives in Croatia — the kind of road that makes you want to pull over every few kilometres just to take in the view.
Island Day Trips from Split — Yes, You Can Bring Your Car
One of the unique things about staying in Split is how easy it is to reach the nearby islands. From the Split Ferry Port, regular ferries connect the city with several beautiful islands — and many of them allow you to bring your rental car on board.
This makes it possible to explore much more than just the main port towns. With a car on the ferry, the whole island opens up.
Car ferries can fill up quickly in summer. Book your ferry ticket in advance — especially if you plan to bring your rental car. Check Jadrolinija (Croatian national ferry company) for schedules and bookings.
Our Advice
Many visitors choose car rental near Bačvice Beach because it allows them to easily pick up a car while staying in Split downtown. From there, the coastal roads are simple to access, and day trips become effortless.
With a rental from M.A.C.K. Rent a Car in Split city center, you can discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and charming Dalmatian towns — all in one unforgettable day along the coast. Not sure how many days you'll need a car? See our guide: do you need a car in Split?
Frequently Asked Questions
Which day trip from Split is best for families with children?
Krka National Park is a great option for families — the wooden boardwalks, waterfalls, and natural pools are suitable for all ages. Trogir is also very family-friendly, being compact and walkable with plenty of spots for lunch and ice cream along the waterfront.
Can I take a rental car on the ferry to the islands?
Yes. Car ferries operate from Split Ferry Port to Brač (Supetar), Hvar (Stari Grad), and Vis (Vis Town), among others. You can take your rental car on board. Just notify us when booking so we can confirm the vehicle is approved for island travel.
How many day trips can I realistically do from Split in one week?
With a car, it's very realistic to do 4–5 day trips in a week. Many visitors combine shorter trips (Trogir, Omiš) with longer ones (Krka, Makarska, island visits). The compact geography of Dalmatia means most key destinations are within 1–2 hours of Split.
Is it better to rent a car for a full week or just a few days?
It depends on your plans. If you're spending several days in Split city center before exploring, many guests rent for just 2–3 days at the end of their stay. Others prefer to have a car for the full trip to maximize their flexibility from day one.