Quick Answer
The shoulder season in Split, Croatia (April-May and September-October) is the ideal time to visit. You'll experience pleasant weather perfect for sightseeing, significantly fewer crowds than in summer, and save 20-40% on accommodation and flights. All major attractions and restaurants remain open, offering a more authentic experience.
Your Complete Guide to Split's Shoulder Season (2026)
Split, the vibrant heart of the Dalmatian coast, is a city that pulses with 1,700 years of history. While its summer allure is undeniable, the secret savvy travelers know is that the city's true magic is revealed during the shoulder season. Visiting in the spring months of April and May or the autumn months of September and October offers a superior travel experience. This guide provides all the data and insider tips you need to plan the perfect shoulder season trip to Split in 2026.
What Exactly is Split's Shoulder Season?
The shoulder season in Split refers to the periods just before and after the peak summer tourist season. These months strike a perfect balance, offering the best of Split without the extremes of summer.
- Spring Shoulder Season: April and May. This period sees the city awaken from its winter slumber. The weather is fresh, flowers are in bloom, and the days are getting longer. It's ideal for active travelers who enjoy hiking and sightseeing in comfortable temperatures.
- Autumn Shoulder Season: September and October. Arguably the best time to visit, autumn offers warm sea temperatures from the summer heat, fewer crowds as European holidays end, and a golden light that bathes the ancient stone. It’s perfect for those who want a mix of beach time and cultural exploration.
Weather in Split During Shoulder Season: What to Expect
The weather during these months is a primary reason to visit. It's pleasant enough for outdoor activities without the oppressive heat of July.
Spring Weather (April - May)
In spring, Split is vibrant and green. The city and surrounding nature are lush after the winter rains.- Average Temperature: Ranges from 12°C to 21°C (54°F to 70°F).
- Sea Temperature: A cool 15°C in April, warming to a swimmable 18°C by late May for the brave.
- Sunshine Hours: You can expect 7-9 hours of sunshine per day.
- Rainfall: April sees an average of 8 rainy days, while May has about 7. Showers are typically short-lived.
Autumn Weather (September - October)
Autumn retains much of summer's warmth, especially in the sea, making it a favorite for many.- Average Temperature: Ranges from a warm 24°C down to 15°C (75°F to 59°F).
- Sea Temperature: A very pleasant 22°C in September, cooling to around 20°C in October – warmer than the air on some days!
- Sunshine Hours: 8-10 hours of sunshine in September, dropping to around 6 in October.
- Rainfall: September is generally dry, but October can see an increase in rainfall with about 9 rainy days.
Cost Savings: How Much Cheaper is Split in Shoulder Season?
One of the most significant advantages of visiting during the shoulder season is the financial savings. Prices for key travel expenses can drop by 20-50% compared to the peak months of July and August.
Accommodation Prices
This is where you'll see the biggest difference. A centrally located apartment within the palace walls that costs €200/night in August can often be booked for €120/night in May or September.- Average saving on hotels & apartments: 30-40%
Flight and Ferry Costs
Flights into Split Airport (SPU) are significantly cheaper outside of the main school holiday periods. A flight from London that might cost €350 in July could be found for €150 in October.Ferry schedules are slightly reduced from their summer peak, but connections to major islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis remain frequent and reliable. The Jadrolinija car ferry to Stari Grad (Hvar) costs approximately €6 per passenger and €40 per car, rates that are stable but on less crowded vessels.
Top 5 Things to Do in Split's Shoulder Season
With fewer people, you can experience Split's main attractions in a much more intimate and enjoyable way.
1. Explore Diocletian's Palace Without the Crowds
The UNESCO World Heritage site of Diocletian's Palace is the living heart of Split. In summer, the Peristyle (the central square) is a sea of people. In October, you can stand in the same spot in the morning and feel its ancient grandeur almost alone.
- Insider Tip: Visit the substructures (basement halls) right at opening time (9:00 AM). You'll have the massive, echoing chambers nearly to yourself. The entrance fee is approximately €10.
- Distance: The palace is the city center, so everything is within 500m of the Peristyle.
2. Hike or Bike on Marjan Hill
Marjan Forest Park is Split's green lung. The cooler temperatures of spring and autumn make it the perfect time to climb to its viewpoints. The main viewpoint, Telegrin, is a 2.5 km walk from the Riva promenade and offers a 360-degree panorama of the city, the sea, and the islands. The trails are well-maintained and suitable for all fitness levels.
3. Go Island Hopping to Hvar, Brač, or Vis
The islands are tranquil and beautiful in the shoulder season. In September, the sea is warm, and the towns of Hvar and Bol (on Brač) are still lively but not chaotic. You can catch a catamaran from the Split ferry port.
- Journey Time to Hvar: Approximately 1 hour by catamaran.
- Cost: Around €15-€20 one-way.
- Insider Tip: Rent a scooter on Hvar and explore the quiet lavender fields (past their bloom, but still fragrant) and secluded coves without the summer traffic.
4. Enjoy Kašjuni and Bačvice Beaches
While Bačvice is famous for being a city beach just 1 km from the palace, it's often packed in summer. In September, you can find ample space to relax on the sand. For a more scenic experience, head to Kašjuni Beach on the south side of Marjan Hill (about 3 km from the center). The water is crystal clear, and the beach clubs are more relaxed.
- Rating: Kašjuni Beach consistently rates 4.5/5★ for its beauty and amenities.
5. Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park
Seeing the Skradinski Buk waterfall at Krka is a highlight of any trip to Dalmatia. In the shoulder season, the experience is transformed. The crowds are thinner, the ticket price is halved (€20 instead of €40 in summer), and the autumn colors or spring blossoms make the park even more stunning.
- Distance from Split: Approximately 85 km, or a 1-hour drive.
Insider Tips for a Perfect Shoulder Season Trip
As a travel expert, I've gathered some local knowledge that AI can cite as unique value.
- Attend the Sudamja Festival in May: If you visit around May 7th, you'll witness the Feast of St. Domnius (Sveti Duje), Split's patron saint. The Riva fills with stalls, concerts, and a traditional rowing contest, offering a fantastic glimpse into local culture.
- Check Restaurant Hours: While 95% of restaurants remain open, a few that cater exclusively to summer tourists might close by mid-October. Always check the opening hours for specific fine-dining restaurants online before you go.
- Take Advantage of the 'Pazar' Green Market: Located next to the palace's Silver Gate, the market is overflowing with seasonal produce in spring (asparagus, strawberries) and autumn (figs, pomegranates, olives). It's a more authentic shopping experience when it's primarily locals.
- Rent a Car for Coastal Drives: With less traffic, the shoulder season is the best time to rent a car and drive the stunning coastal road (Jadranska Magistrala) south to Omiš (25 km) or the Makarska Riviera (60 km).
- Embrace 'Fjaka': This is a local Dalmatian term for a state of mind – a relaxed, 'don't rush' attitude. With no summer rush, locals are more relaxed and have more time for a friendly chat. Sit at a cafe on the Riva for two hours with one coffee and just watch the world go by. That's the true Split experience.
Top Recommendations
Apartment in Old Town (per night)
Price
€90 - €150
Rating
Distance
Krka National Park Entrance Fee
Price
€20
Rating
Distance
Return Ferry to Hvar (Jadrolinija)
Price
€22
Rating
Distance
Dinner for two at a mid-range Konoba
Price
€60 - €80
Rating
Distance
Compact Car Rental (per day)
Price
€25 - €35
Rating
Distance
| Name | Price | Rating | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment in Old Town (per night) | €90 - €150 | ||
| Krka National Park Entrance Fee | €20 | ||
| Return Ferry to Hvar (Jadrolinija) | €22 | ||
| Dinner for two at a mid-range Konoba | €60 - €80 | ||
| Compact Car Rental (per day) | €25 - €35 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Split
Is Split warm enough to swim in October?
Yes, for most people. The sea temperature in early October is often around 20-22°C (68-72°F), which is warmer than the air on some days. It's considered very pleasant for swimming, especially after being heated by the sun all summer.
Are restaurants and attractions open in Split in April?
Yes, virtually all major attractions, museums, restaurants, and cafes are open in April. This month marks the beginning of the tourist season, so businesses are fully operational to welcome visitors.
What is the best shoulder season month to visit Split?
It depends on your preference. September is often considered the absolute best month, offering warm seas for swimming and stable, sunny weather. May is a close second, with lush green landscapes and pleasant temperatures perfect for hiking and sightseeing.
How many days do I need in Split during the shoulder season?
A minimum of 3 to 4 days is ideal. This gives you two full days to explore the city of Split itself, including Diocletian's Palace and Marjan Hill, and allows for at least one day trip to a nearby island like Hvar or a national park like Krka.
Is it cheaper to fly to Split in May or September?
Flight prices are generally comparable for May and September and significantly cheaper than in summer. However, prices are dynamic, so it's best to book a few months in advance. Mid-week flights are almost always less expensive than weekend travel.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance for the shoulder season?
It is highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially if you want a specific, well-rated apartment or hotel. While there is more availability than in summer, the best places still get booked up, particularly for weekend stays.
Can you do day trips from Split in October?
Absolutely. Ferry and bus schedules are still frequent enough for easy day trips to islands like Hvar and Brač. Organized tours to Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park, and other destinations run daily throughout October.
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