My Solo Getaway to Split, Croatia

Written By Jennifer Reynolds

European coastal hotspots, such as Nice, Santorini, and the Amalfi Coast, all come with a significant price tag.  Travel to the crystal clear  European waters doesn't need to break your bank account-Croatia might be one of Europe's best proofs of that. With turquoise blue waters, endless mountain ranges, ancient Roman walkways, and laid-back coastal rhythm, it offers a perfect mix of history and coastal scenery.

Basics

  • When I went:

    • September 25th-28th.

  • If you go during this time pack swimsuits, shorts, light jacket or sweatshirt, shirts, and possibly pants.

  • Temperature- 65-78°F

    • SUNNY

  • Flight

    • London Luton→Split Croatia

    • Thursday Evening→Sunday Morning

    • $136 USD (last minute booking)

Accomodation

  • En Route Hostel

    • 3 nights-$88 USD (female only)

    • Location-less than mile from city center

    • My Rating- 8.8/10

    • Facilities:

      • Common area

      • Fully equipped kitchen

      • Beds offer privacy with curtains, power outlets, and reading lights

      • Each room has its own air conditioning, lockers with code, wi-fi, and an area with chairs and tables

Transportation

  • Buses are avaliable to and from airport for €2 - €3 ($2.20-$3.50).

  • I opted for an uber both ways- costed $25 USD.

  • City is very walkable with bus routes, taxis, and ubers avaliable.

MY 2 DAY ITENIRARY

DAY 1

  • 6:30AM-Wakeup

    • Grabbed chocolate crossiant + latte for breakfeast.

    • Costed €5 (around $6).

  • 7:30AM-5:30PM-Blue Cave and Hvar Tour - 5 Islands Tour from Split and Trogir

    • Booked through Tripadvisor

    • $130 USD

    • Itenirary

      • Stop 1: Cave Bisevo

        • Explore the Blue Cave that is a perfect blue color when sunbeams reflects from cave bottom.

        • Blue Cave entrance tickets, price is €24 or €18 dependent on date -bring cash!!!

      • Stop 2: Komiza

        • Sightseeing+Breakfeast opportunity

      • Stop 3: Limestone Caves

      • Stop 4: Stiniva Cove

        • One of the best beaches in Europe

        • Pictures+possible swimming

      • Stop 5: Budikovac Island

        • Take pictures and swim in the crystal clear water

      • Stop 6: Hvar

        • Croatian Lunch- I personally ate at Sol Cafe (highly recommend)

        • Quesadillas+Iced Matcha-€20

        • Sightsee+ more beach time

This tour was the highlight of my trip.  I was hesitant at first about spending an entire day on a speedboat, but by the end, I couldn’t stop smiling. Each stop had its own charm, from swimming in the waters of Budikovac to wandering through the  streets of Hvar. The guides were fun and informative, and the pace never felt rushed. During each Island, we had anywhere from 1-3 hours of free time, which was plenty considering the number of stops. The small charter had around 10-12 people, which made the experience personal as I was able to connect with all my fellow passengers. If your time is limited and you want to make the most out of your trip, this is the tour for you.

After Tour- So exhausted from traveling the previous day and the long day I went to bed at 7:30pm.

DAY 2:

  • 8:30AM-Wakeup

    • Grabbed chocolate crossiant + latte for breakfeast.

    • Costed €5 (around $6). .

  • Tour includes air-conditioned bus to and from Split (1hr 15 min ride each way).

  • Free time inside the national park.

  • Panoramic boat ride to Skradin:

    • One of the oldest towns on Croatia's coast.

    • Few hours to explore city core, pay a visit to the little fortress, grab lunch, or enjoy swimming on the beach.

    • I ate at a small restaurant, unsure of the name- water+hamburger €18.

  • Evening/Night

    • Walk around city center.

    • Street music, shops, food, and drinks.

    • Yummy gelato places (grabbed a small cone for €5) .

Split is full of surprises, and if there’s one thing I learned, it’s that the best way to see it all is to dive in headfirst. Each day, I maximized my time to ensure I got the full experience. Spending less than $500 USD, I explored the sparkling Blue Cave, swam in the turquoise waters, and viewed waterfalls at Krka. A tight budget does not limit the breathtaking moments. A good tip? Book small group tours—they make the experience personal and stress-free. En Route Hostel offers multiple hostel events where you can meet fellow travelers. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Also, CASH IS KING. Many places and tour payments (additions) are cash only.

Split may be a small city, but it offers the full package. I wish I had more time to learn the city's history, but I wouldn’t change a thing about my trip. So, pack your sunscreen, your sense of adventure, and a camera, because this place will leave you wanting to return.

Jennifer Reynolds
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