Split-Dalmatia County, Croatia Holidays Rentals

Split-Dalmatia County in Croatia is a sun-soaked gateway to the Adriatic’s most iconic coastlines and island escapes. This region blends ancient stone towns, crystal-clear water, dramatic mountains, and child-friendly beaches with convenient access to modern amenities. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly holiday, a group getaway with friends, or a romantic coastal retreat, the county offers vacation rentals and holiday rentals that fit every style and budget. From bustling Split with its living history to tranquil village coves and olive groves, travelers discover a mix of culture, cuisine, and convenience that makes every stay feel seamless. For easy planning and a wide selection of accommodations, searchandstay.com is a great resource to find vacation rentals and holiday rentals in Split-Dalmatia County.

Where to stay in Split-Dalmatia County

The county offers a spectrum of neighborhoods and towns, each with its own character and pace. If you crave city access with coastal charm, base yourself in Split’s historic core or along its palm-lined promenades. For island vibes, take a fast ferry to Brač, Hvar, or Šolta and anchor in a beachfront villa, a cozy apartment with sea views, or a family-friendly holiday home with a pool. If you prefer a quiet base for day trips, the Makarska Riviera and the areas around Omiš provide hillside villas and small boutique guesthouses that feel tucked away, yet are still within easy reach of beaches and activities.

• — walkable, lively, and perfect for first-time visitors who want cultural immersion, waterfront dining, and quick access to day trips. Look for vacation rentals near the Riva promenade or near Diocletian’s Palace for immersive experiences and easy strolls to markets and cafes.
• Trogir — a UNESCO-listed medieval town on a small island with narrow alleys, authentic konobas, and harbor views. Holiday rentals here feel like stepping into a living postcard, with convenient ferry links to Split and nearby islands.
• Omiš and the Cetina Canyon — ideal for active families and adventure seekers. Staying here puts you close to river rafting, canyon hikes, zip-lining, and riverfront tavernas, with beaches within a short drive.
• Makarska Riviera — sweeping beaches, energetic nightlife, and family-friendly seaside towns. Vacation rentals along the coast provide quick beach access and nearby parks or hiking trails in Biokovo Nature Park.
• Islands of Brač, Hvar, and Šolta — ferry-accessible getaways with a choice of tranquil coves, dramatic limestone landscapes, and sun-soaked towns. Villas with pools, hillside apartments, and family-friendly homes are common here, many with stunning sea views.

Getting around and safety tips

The most effortless way to explore Split-Dalmatia County is to combine a central base in Split with day trips by car or ferry. Driving along the Dalmatian coast is scenic but can be winding and busy in peak season, so plan extra travel time and use a GPS with up-to-date ferry schedules. Parking in historic cores like Split’s Old Town can be challenging; consider choosing a rental near a tram line or in a dedicated parking area and walk to sights. For island hops, ferries and catamarans connect Split to Brač, Hvar, and Šolta regularly, while a broader set of itineraries is available from local ports to Vis and other islands.

Safety and convenience go hand in hand for family trips. Look for vacation rentals with modern safety features—childproof outlets, secure stair gates, and well-maintained pools or terraces. Choose accommodations with a kitchen or kitchenette for easy meal prep with kids, and check for amenities like air conditioning, laundry, and wifi, which simplify travel during hot coastal summers or longer stays.

Top experiences and local experiences in Split-Dalmatia County

A well-rounded itinerary weaves history, nature, and relaxed seaside moments. Here are experiences that many visitors treasure:

• Wander the marble streets of Diocletian’s Palace, stroll the Riva waterfront, and watch life unfold from a seaside cafe. Climb Marjan Hill for panoramic views, and don’t miss the Green Market for fresh fruit, olive oil, and local cheeses.
• Book a family-friendly boat tour to nearby coves, or rent a private boat for a day to explore hidden beaches along Brač or Hvar. Snorkeling stops reveal Adriatic clarity and colorful marine life.
• Visit Bol on Brač to see the iconic Zlatni Rat beach, a wind and wave-sculpted cape. The area offers gentle hiking, bike-friendly routes, and kid-friendly beaches with cafes and gelaterias nearby.
• The Cetina River canyon beckons with rafting, stand-up paddleboarding, and zip-lining. The old pirate town mood and riverfront eateries create a memorable family day trip.
• Krka National Park, with its waterfalls and safe boardwalk trails, is perfect for family photos and short strolls. The nearby Mokro Polje or Krčanj areas offer scenic viewpoints and easy hikes for sunlit afternoons.
• Dalmatian cuisine shines in konobas and family-run taverns. Attend a local olive oil or wine-tasting experience, typically paired with plates of fresh seafood, grilled vegetables, and regional cheeses.

Suggested experiences by destination

For travelers who want a mix of culture and coast, here are curated options that pair well with vacation rentals:

• — Dive into history, sample blue sea air on the beaches near the city, and explore museums and galleries. Short trips to nearby towns on the coast are easy for day plans.
• — A UNESCO-listed medieval town with narrow lanes, a waterfront promenade, and a regal fortress. A relaxing day trip from Split or within a longer island circuit.
• — Known for sun-drenched beaches, lavender fields, and lively harbor life. Book a private boat or explore quiet coves by scooter or bike.
• — The island with dramatic landscape, stone towns, and family-friendly beaches. Zlatni Rat is legendary, but numerous bays offer calmer water for younger swimmers.
• — A quieter island experience ideal for families seeking slow mornings, olive groves, and simple coastal meals with local wines.
• — A base for adventure activities along the Cetina River with a dramatic canyon backdrop and a friendly, small-town vibe.

Cuisine, markets, and local flavor

Dalmatian cuisine emphasizes seafood, olive oil, grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and handmade bread. Markets in Split and smaller towns offer seasonal fruit, cheeses, olives, and locally produced honey and wine. Don’t miss the chance to try:

• Grilled fish and seafood platters with lemon and olive oil
• Pasticada with gnocchi, a slow-cooked beef dish that’s a regional favorite
• Black risotto with squid ink, popular along coastal towns
• Prosciutto and local cheeses, often served with olives and chestnut honey
• Olive oil tastings and small-batch wines from local producers

Family-friendly planning and itineraries

Planning around kids’ energy and safety helps make every day enjoyable. Consider multi-day stays in a single villa or apartment with a private pool, then mix beach time with easy cultural visits. Short drives between Split and nearby towns minimize long travel days, allowing for rest after a big morning at the market or a long afternoon at the beach.

• Allocate a “rest-and-play” day midweek to balance sightseeing with downtime
• Choose accommodations with child-friendly features (cribs, high chairs, safety gates, and secure balconies)
• Pack lightweight rain gear for sudden showers in spring and autumn
• Plan ferry and boat trips in advance during peak season to secure seating and avoid queues

Booking accommodations in Split-Dalmatia County

Finding the right vacation rental or holiday rental can transform a trip into a smooth, memorable experience. Whether you want a city-center apartment with quick access to sights or a hillside villa with a private pool for a relaxed family retreat, Split-Dalmatia County has options. Explore a wide range of accommodations on searchandstay.com, where you can filter by location, price, number of bedrooms, safety features, and preferred amenities. The platform makes it simple to compare listings, view photos, read guest reviews, and secure a booking with clear terms.

When searching, consider proximity to the beach, access to a supermarket, pet-friendly policies if needed, and whether the property offers essentials like air conditioning, washing facilities, and high-speed wifi. For island stays, check ferry schedules and the property’s guidance on traffic-free parking or drop-off points for boats and luggage. A well-chosen holiday rental in Split-Dalmatia County keeps daily planning light and flexible, letting you focus on experiences rather than logistics.

Sample seven-day itinerary for Split-Dalmatia County

1. Day 1: Arrive in Split, settle into your vacation rental, stroll the Riva, and dine on fresh seafood at a waterside konoba.
2. Day 2: Explore Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristyle, and the Cathedral; afternoon visit to Marjan Hill for hiking and sunset views.
3. Day 3: Day trip to Trogir’s UNESCO-listed old town and waterfront markets; return for gelato and a relaxed evening.
4. Day 4: Ferry to Brač; spend the day at Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol and explore the island’s hillside villages.
5. Day 5: Cetina River adventure in Omiš—rafting or zip-lining in the canyon, followed by a family-friendly riverfront dinner.
6. Day 6: Island hopping to Hvar or Šolta; enjoy a private boat tour or a guided coastal walk, with time for lavender fields or olive groves.
7. Day 7: Makarska Riviera day — beach time, Biokovo Nature Park viewpoints, and a farewell seaside dinner.

Practical planning tips for visitors

• Best time to visit: May, June, and September offer warm weather with fewer crowds; July and August are peak season with lively events and long days at the beach.
• Currency and payments: Croatia uses the Croatian kuna (HRK), though euros are accepted in some tourist areas. Carry some local cash for smaller markets, but most places take cards.
• Connectivity: Select accommodations with reliable wifi if you’re working remotely or traveling with digital planners.
• Health and safety: Keep water handy during hot days, use sun protection, and follow local advisories for safe swimming and coastal routes.
• Typical drive times: Split to Trogir is a short ride; Split to Makarska may take about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic and routes.
• Waste and sustainability: Support local producers, recycle, and choose accommodations that practice responsible tourism to preserve the region’s beauty for future visitors.

Plan your Dalmatian coast escape

Split-Dalmatia County invites travelers to combine culture, natural beauty, and coastal leisure into a single, unforgettable trip. Whether you’re sampling seafood at a harbor-side market, hiking a limestone ridge above a sparkling bay, or waking up to a poolside sunrise in a family-friendly villa, there’s a vacation rental or holiday rental ready to host your story. For easy planning and access to a broad selection of accommodations, visit searchandstay.com to find the perfect home base in Split-Dalmatia County and start building your Croatian coastal itinerary today.