Split When It Rains: 16 Best Ways To Enjoy Split On A Rainy Day

When planning a trip to Split, Croatia, it’s easy to get swept away by the beauty of its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and rich history. However, as with any destination, weather can be unpredictable.

If you find yourself in Split on a rainy day, don’t worry! There are plenty of activities to enjoy that will keep you entertained, dry, and experiencing the best of what this beautiful city has to offer.

Let’s explore some of the best.

1. Explore Diocletian’s Palace

One of Split’s crown jewels, Diocletian’s Palace is an ancient Roman structure that transports you back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only a historical marvel but also a hub of shops, cafes, and museums. Rainy weather provides a perfect opportunity to explore its vast interiors and sheltered spaces.

To get out of the rain entirely, head to Diocletian’s Basements. This is a well-known filming location for GOT (where the dragons were kept), plus full of ‘real life’ fascinating history. You can either visit on your own or take a guided tour with a local guide (suggestions below)

2. Museums & Galleries

Rainy days are perfect for immersing yourself in culture, and Split boasts an array of museums and galleries worth visiting.

Must-visit museums include:

Museum Of Croatian Archaeological Monuments

Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 18, 21000, Split, Croatia

This museum is dedicated to Croatia’s rich archaeological history. It features artifacts from various eras and provides an educational experience that provides insights into Croatia’s past.

Split City Museum

Located inside Diocletian’s Palace

Located within the palace walls, this museum provides a glimpse into the city’s history, showcasing artifacts from various periods—ideal for history buffs.

Galerija Meštrović (Meštrović Gallery)

Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 46, 21000, Split, Croatia

This gallery, dedicated to the works of Ivan Meštrović, one of Croatia’s most famous sculptors, is a treasure trove of art set in a beautiful old villa.

Ethnographic Museum

Ul. Iza Vestibula 4, 21000, Split, Croatia

The Split Ethnographic Museum, nestled within a historic 15th-century palace, showcases Dalmatia’s rich cultural heritage through an impressive collection of traditional artifacts.

Maritime Museum

Glagoljaška ul. 18, 21000, Split, Croatia

This museum showcases the region’s rich naval history, featuring an impressive collection of ship models, navigational instruments, and maritime artifacts.

Museum Of Fine Art

Ul. kralja Tomislava 15, 21000, Split, Croatia

This museum showcases a stunning collection of Croatian paintings, sculptures, and contemporary art. Nestled in a historic building, it gives visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy.

Game Of Thrones Museum

Bosanska ul. 9, 21000, Split, Croatia

Game of Thrones fans will love this spot! It immerses visitors in the world of Westeros, showcasing iconic props, costumes, and engaging exhibits.

Illusions

Ul. Andrije Kačića Miošića 2, 21000, Split, Croatia

The Illusions Museum is packed with mind-bending exhibits that challenge perception and spark curiosity. With interactive displays and optical tricks, it’s an excellent spot for all the family.

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3. Enjoy A Culinary Adventure

What better way to brighten a rainy day than indulging in Croatian cuisine? Split is packed with cozy restaurants, cafes, and local markets where you can sample delicious dishes without the worry of getting wet.

Some local delicacies to try include:

Peka

A traditional Croatian dish made by slow-cooking meat and vegetables under a bell-shaped lid. Many restaurants offer this unique cooking style where you can savor the flavors.

Seafood

Split is located on the coast, making fresh seafood widely available. Look for restaurants that offer fresh catch of the day, grilled sardines, or seafood risotto.

Bakery Delights

Stop by a local bakery for pastries and sweet treats such as *štrukli* (dough filled with cheese) or *fritule* (small fried doughnuts). Pair these with a cup of strong Croatian coffee.

If you want someone to do all of the thinking for you, join a food tour like one of these:

4. A MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Experience

Marulićeva ul. 2., Split, 21000, Croatia

Nestled in a narrow alley of Split is Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar. This lively and inviting restaurant operates from breakfast through dinner and is enhanced by live music in the evenings. The youthful Croatian chef presents a diverse menu that features Dalmatian specialties as well as dishes influenced by global cuisine.

Some offerings are intended for sharing, like the platters of local cured meats and cheeses, while the house-made tonnarelli pasta paired with a Prošek wine sauce, onions, garlic, and prawns is superb. The thoughtfully selected wine list showcases a variety of options from across Croatia, with approximately 15 wines also offered by the glass. Read more here.

5. Wine Tasting

A rainy day is a perfect opportunity to warm up with a glass of local wine. Consider taking a wine-tasting tour to sample some of Croatia’s best varietals or visit a local wine bar. Many establishments also offer the chance to pair wines with local cheeses and charcuterie.

One great place to visit for this is also at Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar. From 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., they offer a tasty and informative experience. However, it’s a good idea to make a reservation to avoid disappointment – especially on a rainy day.

6. Relax In A Spa

If you’d rather take it easy, why not pamper yourself at one of Split’s rejuvenating spas? A spa day is a luxurious way to unwind and escape the dreary weather.

A few recommended spots include:

Le Meridien Lav Spa

Grljevacka 2A, Podstrana, 21312, Split, Croatia

Nestled in the luxurious Le Meridien Lav hotel, this spa offers a serene environment with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. It offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps, all using local and organic products.

Riva Spa

Alješijina 6, Split Croatia, 21000 Split, Croatia

Riva Spa offers a blend of modern therapies and traditional wellness practices. Housed within the luxurious Waterfront Hotel, it offers tailored treatments in a chilled-out ambiance. Group packages are also available.

Spa At The Hotel Park

Hatzeov period 3, 21000, Split, Croatia

The Spa at Hotel Park is a hidden gem that combines luxury with personalized care. Situated just a short walk from the famous Diocletian’s Palace, this spa takes you on a holistic journey with a fusion of ancient techniques and modern therapies. Definitely check out the thermal zone, which has saunas, steam rooms, and a relaxing outdoor terrace.

7. Enjoy A Movie At The Cinema

Cultural entertainment is a fantastic way to spend a rainy day. Check out local listings to find out what’s playing in cinemas or what theatrical performances are scheduled.

All movies are in their original languages in Croatia (with Croatian subtitles), although kids’ movies are usually dubbed into Croatian. The Mall of Split has a state-of-the-art theater, including 3D & 4DX options.

Whether you’re after a simple movie experience, independent films, or a big-screen adventure with oversized popcorn, Split has it all.

Cineplexx, located at City Center One, offers a modern cinema experience, while Cinestar at Joker Shopping Center is perfect for blockbuster enthusiasts. For a more intimate setting, head to Kino Karaman in the heart of the Old Town, or visit Golden Gate Cinema, also located in the historic core, for a unique cinematic experience.

8. Shopping Malls To Go Shopping

Who doesn’t love a bit of retail therapy? When it rains, take the opportunity to explore Split’s various shops and markets. There is a free shuttle bus from and back to the old town to The Mall of Split. The unmissable bright pink bus is located behind the ‘Split Sign’. You can check the website for their schedule.

The main shopping areas are:

Marmontova Street

This popular promenade is lined with fashion boutiques, artisan shops, and local brands. It’s the perfect place to browse through unique items without worrying about getting wet.

Split Market

Even in light rain, the Indoor Market in the city center can be a delightful experience. Explore stalls filled with fresh produce, local crafts, olive oil, and handmade goods.

Consider picking up some local souvenirs, such as lavender products, handmade jewelry, or traditional Croatian olive oil.

Local Souvenir Shopping

I suggest you head to Breaktime Croatia for locally made souvenirs. The store is known for its handcrafted bracelets, which are inspired by the Adriatic Sea and made with durable, water-resistant materials. The flagship store is located at Trogirska 8, where you can not only purchase these unique pieces but also watch the artisan, Leonard Copoiu, create custom jewelry on-site.

The shop is open daily, and it offers a range of collections, including anchor and shackle bracelets, all of which can be customized with engravings.

9. Attend A Cooking Class

What better way to embrace Croatian culture than through its cuisine? Join a cooking class in Split and learn how to prepare traditional dishes.

A few quality options include:

Split Cooking Class

This hands-on experience allows you to learn how to whip up local delicacies while enjoying the company of fellow travelers.

Culinary Adventures

Many tours also combine market visits with cooking classes, allowing visitors to gather fresh ingredients and learn directly from local chefs.

10. Visit The Green Market

If the rain is light, head to the **Pazar** (Green Market) to sample local produce. Open-air markets may be less crowded on rainy days, giving you a more relaxed shopping experience. Explore seasonal fruits, fresh seafood, and artisanal breads while chatting with friendly local vendors.

11. Visit The Escape Room

Gather your friends or family and bond over a collective challenge at one of Split’s escape rooms. Escape Room Split is one of the best.

12. Enjoy Some Go-Karting

At the City Centre One Mall, you can test your driving skills. The course is undercover in the parking garage. You can also enjoy food and drinks, shopping, and general fun and merriment at this mall, ideal for a rainy day.

13. River Rafting

Bear with me. You’re going to get wet anyway, so you might as well enjoy it! The Cetina River offers some great opportunities for action and thrills, so why not try a rafting and cliff-jumping tour? You can also try canoe rafting.

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14. Attend Local Workshops

Rainy weather can be an ideal time to learn a new skill or craft. Many local artisans in Split offer workshops where you can try your hand at pottery, painting, or even traditional Croatian crafts. How about an artisan pastry workshop and dessert tasting or a painting party?

15. Check Out Froggyland

Froggyland is certainly something a little different and an excellent activity for a rainy day. This museum is located close to Diocletian’s Palace, and it’s packed with taxidermy frogs that pose as if they’re doing human things. Weird but wonderful!

16. VR Experience

If you’ve visited Diocletian’s Palace and now have an urge to go back in time, this VR experience is for you. You can see what the palace looked like when it was built in 305 AD.

Rainy Day Split FAQs

Rainy days in Split don’t have to put a damper on your travel plans. In fact, they can serve as the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the city’s cultural offerings, culinary delights, and historical treasures. Whether you choose to explore the majestic Diocletian’s Palace, savor traditional Croatian cuisine, or immerse yourself in art and history, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy this beautiful city — even when the skies are grey.