3 Days in Split & Dubrovnik: Adriatic Gems & Game of Thrones

Day 1 explores Diocletian's Palace, the Riva seafront, Marjan Hill's panoramic views, and Bacvice Beach — the heart of Dalmatian coastal life.

Days 2–3 take you inside Dubrovnik's UNESCO-listed Old Town — walk the ancient City Walls, ride the cable car to Mount Srđ, and explore forts and palaces from the Game of Thrones filming locations.

A 4th-century Roman palace that forms the heart of Split's Old Town. Enter through the Bronze Gate from the Riva and emerge into the Peristyle, the imperial courtyard. The basement halls are free to explore and show the original layout. Book a guided tour for the upper levels and the Temple of Jupiter.

Originally built as Diocletian's mausoleum, this is one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the world still in use. Climb the 60 m Romanesque bell tower for sweeping views of the city, harbor, and nearby islands. The wooden choir stalls and the 13th-century altar painting are highlights inside.

Enjoy fresh Dalmatian seafood at one of the many restaurants lining the Riva promenade. Try the grilled fish with blitva (Swiss chard and potatoes) or crni rižot (black risotto with cuttlefish). The palm-fringed Riva buzzes with locals — grab a table at Kavana Ovaj or Uje Oil Bar for a front-row seat to the action.

A forested peninsula and Split's green lung. Follow the path from the Old Town up to the first viewpoint (Bene — Vidilica) for stunning panoramas of the city, harbor, and Brač and Hvar islands. The climb takes about 15 minutes. On the way down, stop at the tiny 15th-century Church of St. Nicholas on the hill. Free entry.

Split's most popular sandy beach, famous for the local game of picigin played in the shallows. The shallow, clear water is perfect for a late-afternoon swim. Rent a sun lounger or spread a towel on the concrete slabs. Several beach bars serve cold Karlovačko beer and cocktails.

The old fish market area turned into a vibrant cluster of waterfront restaurants. Order a platter of grilled calamari, škampi (Adriatic prawns), and a side of gregada (fish and potato stew). The sound of lapping waves and view of the illuminated harbor make for an unforgettable Dalmatian evening. Restaurant Konoba Marjan is a local favorite.

Take the morning bus from Split's main terminal to Dubrovnik. FlixBus and Arriva run frequent services along the stunning D8 coastal road, hugging the shore past the Makarska Riviera, Neretva Delta, and Pelješac Peninsula. Sit on the right side for the best sea views. The journey takes about 4.5 hours including a rest stop. Book online in advance for the best fares.

After dropping bags at your accommodation, head to Dubrovnik's main limestone-paved street, the Stradun (Placa). Grab a casual lunch at one of the outdoor restaurants near Luža Square — try Lokanda Peskarija for seafood or D'vino Wine Bar for tapas-style Dalmatian plates with local wines.

The 16-pointed Onofrio's Large Fountain at Pile Gate once supplied water to the entire city. Stroll the full length of Stradun from Pile Gate to Luža Square, passing churches, palaces, and the 15th-century Orlando's Column. The limestone pavement has been polished smooth by centuries of footsteps — it's undeniably the grandest public space in the city.

The 2 km circuit of medieval walls is Dubrovnik's top attraction. Walk the full loop taking in Fort Bokar, the Minceta Tower, and the harbour views — allow at least 1.5 hours. The walls have three entry points; Pile Gate is the most popular. Go late afternoon when the light is golden and the tour groups have thinned out. The entrance fee is about €35.

A legendary cliffside bar built into the city walls on the south side of the Old Town. Reach it through a small unmarked door — signs say 'Cold Drinks.' Order a chilled Ožujsko beer or a local wine and watch the waves crash against the rocks below. The sunset views over the Adriatic are spectacular. Cash only, no credit cards.

Prijeko Street is Dubrovnik's restaurant row, lined with traditional konobas. Try Konoba Dalmatino for grilled octopus and peka (slow-cooked meat and vegetables under a bell-shaped lid). For a more intimate setting, book ahead at Bota Šare Restaurant for oysters and fresh fish. Most restaurants offer outdoor terrace seating in the narrow stone alleyways.

Take the 4-minute cable car up 405 m to the summit of Mount Srđ for the best panoramic view of Dubrovnik's Old Town, the Adriatic Sea, and the island of Lokrum. At the top, visit the Homeland War Museum housed in the Imperial Fortress. Time your visit for early morning to avoid queues and catch the soft morning light on the terracotta rooftops.

This 11th-century fortress stands on a 37 m high rock outside the western city walls, famously serving as the Red Keep in Game of Thrones. The inscription above the gate reads 'Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro' — 'Freedom is not sold for all the gold in the world.' Climb to the top terrace for dramatic views of the Old Town and the Fortress of St. John across the harbour.

This lively morning market transforms into a lovely lunch spot by midday. Grab fresh fruit, local olive oil bread, and Dalmatian pršut (prosciutto) and sir (cheese) for a DIY picnic, or sit at one of the surrounding cafés for a light meal. The statue of poet Ivan Gundulić watches over the square. Market stalls close by 14:00, so come early for the best produce.

A Baroque cathedral built on the site of a Byzantine basilica, housing an impressive treasury with over 200 relics. The most famous is the skull of St. Blaise, the city's patron saint, in a jewel-encrusted reliquary. Also notable is Titian's polyptych 'The Assumption of the Virgin' above the main altar. Photography is not allowed inside the treasury.

One of the few buildings that survived the 1667 earthquake, this Gothic-Renaissance palace once housed the Republic's customs office, mint, and bank. The elegant courtyard with its arcaded loggia is a peaceful retreat from the Stradun crowds. Inside, the Dubrovnik State Archives and Memorial Room of the Homeland War are worth exploring. Free entry to the courtyard.

End your Croatian adventure with a memorable dinner on Prijeko Street. Choose Restaurant Proto for its Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition and exquisite seafood risotto, or Konoba Dubrava for authentic peka under a traditional bell. Raise a glass of Dingač — Dalmatia's robust red wine from the Pelješac Peninsula — to toast the end of an unforgettable trip. Book ahead for a terrace table in the alley.