Split is the region’s main transport hub, but central Dalmatia works best when the city is paired with one island or coastal base. Trogir is close to the airport, Makarska sits beneath Biokovo, and Hvar and Brač have separate island transport patterns.
Do not treat every island as a day trip. Staying overnight reveals a different pace and avoids building the whole holiday around the last sailing.
Choose a mainland base
Split gives the widest transport choice and the most substantial urban stay. Trogir is smaller and atmospheric. Makarska suits beach access and mountain scenery.
Choose one island
Hvar Island offers several towns and a long east-west road. Brač combines Supetar, inland villages and Bol. Each needs its own guide and at least two or three nights for more than the arrival port.
Understand the ferries
Passenger catamarans and vehicle ferries are different services. Check the port, vessel type, booking rules and whether a route operates on the intended date.
A practical itinerary
- Days 1 to 3: use Split for the palace core, neighbourhoods and Marjan.
- Day 4: visit or stay in Trogir.
- Days 5 to 7: choose Hvar Island or Brač Island and stay overnight.
- Days 8 to 9: add Makarska if the coast and Biokovo fit the route.
Airport and port transfers
Split Airport lies closer to Trogir than central Split. Allow a generous connection between a flight and a separate ferry booking, especially during summer road traffic.
Travel without a car
The main route works well by bus and ferry. On the islands, choose accommodation close to a useful bus stop or stay in the arrival town if services are limited.
Places to add to your map
- Split: Main city and ferry hub.
- Trogir: Historic island old town near the airport.
- Hvar Island: Long island with several possible ports.
- Brač Island: Island reached through Supetar, Bol and other seasonal ports.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Croatia trip.
Continue planning
Questions about Split region
How long should I spend in Split region?
Five days cover Split and one nearby place. Seven to ten days allow a city stay, one island and another mainland base.
Can I explore Split region without a car?
Yes. Split, Trogir, Makarska and the main island ports have public transport. A car is useful for remote beaches and island interiors but creates parking and ferry costs.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.
- Ferry routes and sailing information, Jadrolinija
- Official Split visitor information, Split Tourist Board
- Split-Dalmatia regional information, Split-Dalmatia County Tourist Board