Things to Do in Split with Kids

The Ultimate Family Guide

Planning a family holiday in Split? You're in for a fantastic experience.

Split is one of Croatia's most family-friendly destinations, offering the perfect combination of beaches, history, outdoor adventures and fun attractions for children of all ages. Whether you're travelling with toddlers, school-age kids or teenagers, you'll find plenty of activities that keep everyone entertained while creating unforgettable holiday memories.

Many families choose Split because everything is close together. Most attractions are within walking distance, the city is safe, and there are plenty of places to stop for ice cream, snacks or a relaxing break.

From interactive museums and beautiful beaches to boat trips and scenic parks, this guide will help you discover the best family activities in Split.

Let's explore the city's top attractions for kids.

1. Visit Selfie Experience Museum

If you're looking for an activity that both children and adults will genuinely enjoy, Selfie Experience Museum should be at the top of your list.

Unlike traditional museums where children are expected to stay quiet and avoid touching the exhibits, this interactive attraction encourages families to explore, play and become part of every room.

With 27 themed rooms, colourful installations and creative photo sets, every corner offers something new to discover.

Children love exploring imaginative environments while parents enjoy capturing unique holiday memories together.

Some of the themed rooms include colourful fantasy settings, optical illusions, interactive decorations and playful installations designed for fun photography.

Because the museum is fully air-conditioned, it's also one of the best places to visit during the hottest part of the day or when unexpected rain interrupts your plans.

Families especially appreciate that everyone can participate together instead of simply walking through an exhibition.

Why families love it

Suitable for children, teenagers and adults
Air-conditioned throughout
27 interactive themed rooms
Many different props
Perfect for rainy days
Great escape from the summer heat
Excellent family photo opportunities
Located close to Split Old Town

Most families spend around one hour exploring, although many stay longer because children enjoy revisiting their favourite rooms.

2. Spend the Day at Bačvice Beach

No family trip to Split is complete without spending time at Bačvice Beach.

Unlike many Croatian beaches that have large pebbles, Bačvice is famous for its shallow sandy entrance into the sea.

This makes it one of the safest beaches for younger children.

Parents can relax while little ones splash in the calm water or build sandcastles along the shore.

Older children often enjoy watching or joining locals playing Picigin, Split's famous beach game that has been played here for generations.

Facilities nearby include:

Restaurants
Ice cream shops
Cafés
Public toilets
Sunbed rentals
Small playgrounds

Because of its central location, Bačvice is only a short walk from the Old Town.

3. Explore Marjan Forest Park

Sometimes children simply need space to run around.

Marjan Forest Park provides exactly that.

Often called the "green heart" of Split, this large park offers shaded walking paths, viewpoints and plenty of nature just minutes from the city centre.

Families can enjoy:

Easy walking trails
Cycling paths
Wildlife spotting
Scenic viewpoints
Picnic areas
Hidden beaches

One of the biggest highlights is reaching the first viewpoint overlooking Split.

The panoramic view is spectacular, and children often enjoy spotting ferries, boats and nearby islands from above.

Bring plenty of water during summer and wear comfortable shoes.

4. Turn Diocletian's Palace into a Treasure Hunt

History becomes much more exciting when children can actively explore.

Instead of simply walking through Diocletian's Palace, turn your visit into a treasure hunt.

Challenge your children to find:

The four palace gates
Roman columns
Egyptian sphinxes
Hidden courtyards
Ancient stone staircases
Small alleyways
Street musicians

Many children enjoy imagining what life inside the palace looked like nearly 1,700 years ago.

The narrow streets also provide plenty of shade during warm afternoons.

Parents often discover that children stay engaged much longer when exploring becomes a game rather than a history lesson.

5. Enjoy an Ice Cream Adventure

Ice cream is practically part of every holiday in Split.

Rather than stopping at the first gelato shop you see, turn dessert into its own little adventure.

Walk through the Old Town and let each family member choose a different flavour.

Popular place to visit fro grab&go is Emiliana!

Many cafés also offer outdoor seating where parents can relax while children enjoy their treats before continuing the day's sightseeing.

6. Take a Family Boat Trip

One of the best experiences for children visiting Split is seeing Croatia from the sea.

Several family-friendly boat tours depart daily from Split Harbour.

Depending on the tour you choose, your family may visit:

Blue Lagoon
Šolta Island
Brač
Hvar
Small hidden bays

Many tours include swimming stops where children can snorkel in incredibly clear water.

If your children are very young, shorter half-day excursions are usually the best choice.

Why Families Love Split

There are many reasons why families return to Split year after year.

The city offers:

Safe pedestrian streets
Short walking distances
Family-friendly beaches
Plenty of outdoor activities
Excellent food
Interactive attractions
Beautiful weather
Easy access to islands

Whether your children love history, nature, beaches or simply having fun together, Split provides enough activities to keep every day different.

7. Visit Froggyland – One of Split's Most Unusual Museums

If your children enjoy unusual attractions, Froggyland is certainly one of the most unique places you'll find in Split.

This quirky museum displays hundreds of carefully preserved frogs arranged in humorous scenes that recreate everyday life from over a century ago.

Children are often fascinated by the creative displays, while adults appreciate the craftsmanship and originality behind the exhibition.

Although the visit doesn't take long, it's an interesting stop if you're looking for something a little different from traditional museums.

Most families spend around 30 to 45 minutes exploring.

8. Discover the Split Waterfront by Evening

After a busy day of sightseeing, many families head back to the Riva Promenade.

As temperatures become more comfortable, the waterfront comes alive with music, street performers and families enjoying an evening walk.

Children love watching:

Street musicians
Bubble performers
Boats arriving at the harbour
Luxury yachts
Seagulls flying above the marina

Parents can relax with a coffee while children enjoy the lively atmosphere.

The promenade is flat, stroller-friendly and perfect for families with younger children.

9. Enjoy a Family Lunch with Local Dalmatian Food

Trying local food is an important part of any holiday.

Fortunately, Split offers plenty of family-friendly restaurants serving traditional Croatian cuisine alongside international dishes for younger visitors.

Popular meals include:

Grilled fish
Pasta
Pizza
Risotto
Fresh seafood
Grilled chicken
Homemade fries

Many restaurants also provide outdoor seating where children have more space to move around while parents enjoy a relaxed meal.

Don't forget to try fresh Croatian olive oil with warm homemade bread.

10. Visit Local Parks and Playgrounds

Sometimes children simply want to play.

Fortunately, Split has several parks and playgrounds where families can take a break between sightseeing.

These green spaces provide opportunities to:

Run around
Climb
Meet local children
Enjoy a picnic
Rest in the shade

During summer, early morning and late afternoon are usually the most comfortable times to visit.

Popular park: Zvončac

11. Explore Split Without Rushing

One mistake many families make is trying to see everything in one day.

Split is much more enjoyable when explored slowly.

Take time to stop for a drink, enjoy the sea breeze, listen to street musicians and allow children to explore at their own pace.

Some of the best holiday memories happen during these simple moments rather than while rushing from one attraction to another.

Children especially appreciate having time to play, ask questions and discover interesting details on their own.

Family Travel Tips for Split

To make your family holiday even more enjoyable, keep these simple tips in mind:

Carry refillable water bottles during summer.
Bring hats and sunscreen for younger children.
Start sightseeing early to avoid the strongest afternoon heat.
Keep swimsuits with you—you'll often pass beaches unexpectedly.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for the Old Town's stone streets.
Plan one indoor activity each day to give everyone a break from the sun.

Small changes like these can make travelling with children much easier and more relaxing.

12. Visit the Green Market (Pazar)

If your children enjoy discovering new foods and colourful places, Split's Green Market is well worth a visit.

Located just outside Diocletian's Palace, this lively market has been part of everyday life in Split for generations.

Families can explore stalls selling:

Fresh fruit
Homemade honey
Local cheeses
Olive oil
Fresh vegetables
Lavender products
Handmade souvenirs

Children often enjoy tasting local fruit or watching vendors prepare fresh produce.

It's also a great opportunity to experience authentic Croatian culture beyond the main tourist attractions.

13. Take a Scenic Walk to Sustipan Park

Sustipan Park is one of Split's hidden gems and an excellent place for families looking for a peaceful escape.

Located just a short walk from the city centre, the park offers beautiful sea views, shaded pathways and plenty of space for children to explore safely.

Parents love the relaxing atmosphere while children enjoy running through the open green spaces.

It's also one of the best places in Split for family photos overlooking the Adriatic Sea.

14. Watch the Sunset Together

One of the simplest family activities in Split is completely free.

Watching the sunset.

As the sun slowly disappears behind the Adriatic Sea, the city becomes quieter and the colours across the sky are spectacular.

Some of the best family-friendly sunset locations include:

The Riva Promenade
Marjan Viewpoint
Sustipan Park
Kašjuni Beach
Matejuška Harbour

Bring an ice cream, find a bench and simply enjoy the moment together.

Sometimes the simplest experiences become the most memorable.

15. Take Home More Than Souvenirs

Many families buy magnets or postcards.

But the best souvenirs are memories.

That's one reason why interactive attractions have become increasingly popular.

Instead of purchasing something that ends up in a drawer, families leave with hundreds of photos they can look back on for years.

At Selfie Experience Museum, every room creates another opportunity to laugh together, be creative and capture moments that become part of your family's holiday story.

Years later, these photographs often become the memories children remember most.

Why Split Is Perfect for Family Holidays

Split offers a balance that few European destinations can match.

In a single day, families can:

Explore Roman history.
Swim in the Adriatic Sea.
Enjoy delicious Mediterranean food.
Visit interactive attractions.
Relax in beautiful parks.
Watch an unforgettable sunset.

Because the city centre is compact, there's no need to spend hours travelling between attractions.

Everything feels easy, making holidays much less stressful for parents.

Make Your Family Holiday Unforgettable

Every family holiday is different.

Some children love beaches.

Others enjoy museums, playgrounds or exploring historic streets.

Fortunately, Split offers all of these experiences in one destination.

Whether you're visiting for two days or a full week, you'll always discover something new around the next corner.

Take your time.

Slow down.

Enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.

Your children may forget which hotel you stayed in, but they'll always remember the adventures you shared together.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Split a good destination for families?

Yes. Split is one of Croatia's most family-friendly cities. It offers safe pedestrian areas, family beaches, parks, boat trips and attractions suitable for children of all ages.

What are the best things to do in Split with toddlers?

Families with toddlers often enjoy Bačvice Beach, the Riva Promenade, Marjan Forest Park, playgrounds and Selfie Experience Museum, where children can safely explore colourful interactive rooms.

Are there indoor activities for kids in Split?

Absolutely.

Some of the most popular indoor family attractions include:

Selfie Experience Museum
Froggyland
Split City Museum
Archaeological Museum
Shopping centres
Family cafés

Indoor attractions are especially useful during hot summer afternoons or occasional rainy days.

Is Split stroller-friendly?

Most modern areas of Split are stroller-friendly.

However, inside Diocletian's Palace you'll encounter historic stone streets that can be uneven in places.

A lightweight stroller is usually the best option.

How many days should families spend in Split?

Three to five days is ideal.

This gives families enough time to enjoy beaches, explore the Old Town, take a boat trip and visit several family attractions without feeling rushed.

What is the best time to visit Split with children?

May, June, September and early October offer warm weather, fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures.

July and August are perfect for beach holidays but can be very hot during the middle of the day.

Is Selfie Experience Museum suitable for young children?

Yes.

The attraction is designed for visitors of all ages.

Families enjoy exploring colourful themed rooms together, taking creative photos and spending time indoors in a comfortable, air-conditioned environment.

Final Thoughts

Split is much more than a beach destination.

It's a city where children can become little explorers, parents can relax, and every day brings a new adventure.

From discovering the ancient streets of Diocletian's Palace and swimming in the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea to hiking through Marjan Forest Park and creating unforgettable family photos at Selfie Experience Museum, there's something here for every generation.

The combination of history, nature, beaches and interactive attractions makes Split one of the best family destinations in Croatia.

Whether you're visiting for a short city break or spending an entire summer holiday on the Dalmatian coast, your family will leave with incredible memories—and probably start planning the next visit before you've even arrived home.