Split is the second largest city in Croatia and the largest one in Dalmatia region. It’s a great place for many things and many people visit it each year. But this article will focus on the natural wonders that can be found near Split. To be more specific, we’re going to list the best waterfalls near Split, Croatia, and who doesn’t like waterfalls? Croatia is full of rivers, and as you will see from this article, some of the best waterfalls in Croatia are located relatively close to Split. Just perfect for a waterfall infused day trip.
The whole area around Split is beautiful, and by this we don’t mean only the coastal part. The Cetina River is close, some of the most famous islands in Croatia are at the tip of your hand, Krka National Park is near too. Split is a great base for exploration of some of the best natural places in Dalmatia. When it comes to waterfalls near Split, they offer a refreshing escape from the city noise into the more natural white noise that will mesmerize you. Places around waterfalls are perfect for swimming and relaxation too.
Let’s explore the nearest waterfalls to Split and see what to expect out of each of them.
Top Waterfalls Near Split In this article, we’re going to visit 5 waterfalls. Some of them will be in the famous locations such as Krka National Park or Cetina River, while some others will be secluded and harder to reach. We decided to list the best waterfalls that are within 2 hours of driving away from Split.
1. Krka Waterfalls (Krka National Park) Description:
Distance from Split: Approximately 85 km (1 hour by car)Highlights: Skradinski Buk, Roški Slap, Visovac IslandActivities: Swimming (limited to designated areas), boat tours, hikingBest Time to Visit: Spring and early summer when the water flow is stronger, but it’s usually most visited during summer months
2. Cetina River Waterfalls Description: The Cetina River has one of the most stunning canyons in Croatia and it’s located very close to Split, some 30-40 minutes of driving away. Cetina River pours into the Adriatic Sea in Omiš, one of the best places for adventure activities in Croatia such as ziplines, Via Ferrata trails, rock climbing, and much more. The Cetina River is one of the best rivers for white water rafting in Croatia. Canyoning is the best activity to do in the upper part of the Cetina River canyon.
Distance from Split: About 30 km (40 minutes by car)Notable Spots: Gubavica Waterfall (Velika and Mala)Activities: Rafting, canyoning, swimmingAdventure Tip: Try canyoning to experience the waterfalls from a close
3. Kaskade Žrnovnica (Žrnovnica River) Description:
Distance from Split: 10 km (15 minutes by car)Best For: A quick escape into the natureActivities: Hiking, photography, picnic
4. Krčić Waterfall (Near Knin) Description: The Krčić Waterfall is a stunning waterfall near the town of Knin. Krčić waterfall pours straight into the spring of the Krka River, which makes the landscape of Krka National Park not so far away from Knin. The best part of the year to visit this waterfall is spring, when it’s full of water because of the melting snow that feeds it. Unfortunately, this waterfall is dry during the summer. If you are visiting Krčić, we suggest visiting the Knin Fortress as well.
Distance from Split: Approximately 90 km (1.5 hours by car)Highlights: Majestic 22-meter waterfall at the source of the Krka RiverActivities: Hiking, photography, exploring historical Knin Fortress nearby
5. Kravice Waterfalls (Bosnia and Herzegovina) Description:
Distance from Split: Approximately 140 km (2 hours by car)Highlights: Stunning cascades up to 25 meters highActivities: Swimming, picnicking, kayakingBest Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn
How to Reach the Waterfalls from Split There are a few most common ways people choose to visit these magnificent waterfalls and rivers they are part of.
By Car: Renting a car is the most convenient option of reaching any place in Croatia. The roads to most of these waterfalls are well-maintained, and parking is available near attractions like Krka National Park or Kravice Waterfalls.Organized Tours: Many day tours from Split include transportation to these natural attractions, guided experiences, and often some additional activities.Public Transport: Buses are available to larger towns that are located near the waterfalls, such as Skradin for Krka, but you will need a taxi or other local transportation to reach them. Public transport is not convenient as the previously mentioned means of transport.
Best Time to Visit Waterfalls Near Split When it comes to waterfalls in Croatia, spring is the best time to visit them since the water flow is strongest at this period due to the snow melting in the higher mountains.
Spring: The best time because of the strongest water flow. Places such as Krka and Kravice are still not as crowded as they will be during the summer.Summer: Great for swimming and water-based activities near waterfalls, but expect a lot more tourists.Autumn: A quieter time to enjoy waterfalls and mild weather. Waterfalls can have stronger water flow after the rainy days.Winter: Almost no visitors, most of the facilities are closed, swimming is not recommended.
Tips for Visiting Waterfalls Near Split Here are a few more tips to make your visit to waterfalls near Split, Croatia a better experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: Many of the trails around the waterfalls are rocky so proper shoes are a must.Bring Swimwear: Especially if visiting Krka National Park or the Cetina River. You will want to swim at these locations.Pack Light Snacks and Water: Some of the mentioned places have cafes and shops, but it’s always good to have essentials with you.Check for Entrance Fees: Krka National Park requires a ticket, Kravice Waterfalls also. Check this requirement before visiting.Respect Nature: Stay on marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife. Always follow the Leave No Trace principles when visiting natural places such as these.
Combine Your Visit with Other Attractions Waterfalls are great, but the whole experience will be much better if you combine a visit to them with a visit to some other nearby locations or activities. For example, if you’re visiting Cetina River, rafting there is one of the best activities to try and experience the waterfalls firsthand.
Omiš: After exploring the Cetina River, explore this small historical town famous for its pirate history and beautiful beaches.Šibenik: Close to Krka National Park, the city with many historical landmarks.Imotski Lakes: A scenic stop if going to the Kravice Waterfalls, known for the stunning Blue and Red Lakes.Knin Fortress: If you’re visiting Krčić waterfall, we suggest visiting the Knin Fortress too.Počitelj, Mostar: If visiting Kravice Waterfalls, combine them with historical places such as Počitelj and Mostar that are close by.
Before you venture to the waterfalls near Split, Croatia Ready to exchange the noise of the city with waterfall white noise? Of course you are, places with waterfalls are some of the best you can experience when staying in Split . Krka National Park is the most commonly chosen place by many visitors coming to Split, but maybe you’ll go in another direction and head toward the Kravice Waterfalls in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Either one you choose, have a great time and enjoy these marvels of nature.
