Is Split Stroller-Friendly? A Family Guide for 2026

Is Split Really Stroller-Friendly? The Honest Answer

Split, the vibrant heart of the Dalmatian coast, is a dream destination with its Roman ruins, sparkling Adriatic waters, and bustling promenades. But for parents traveling with young children, one critical question looms: can you navigate this ancient city with a stroller? The honest answer is a mix of yes and no. Split presents a tale of two cities for families with wheels.

The modern parts of Split, including the stunning Riva promenade, are exceptionally stroller-friendly. These areas feature wide, flat, and smoothly paved surfaces perfect for a leisurely push. However, the city's main draw, the 1,700-year-old Diocletian's Palace and the surrounding Old Town (Stari Grad), is a different story. Here, you'll encounter a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, slick limestone cobblestones polished by centuries of foot traffic, and an abundance of stairs.

Success depends on two factors: having the right equipment and managing your expectations. With a suitable stroller and a smart itinerary, you can absolutely enjoy a fantastic family vacation in Split. This guide will provide the specific, practical advice you need to conquer the cobblestones and make the most of your 2026 trip.

Choosing the Right Stroller for Split

Bringing the right stroller to Split can be the difference between a frustrating ordeal and a smooth adventure. Your heavy, all-terrain suburban tank is not the best choice here. Instead, prioritize a blend of durability and portability.

Lightweight & Compact

You will inevitably need to lift your stroller. Whether it's to climb the stairs to your apartment, navigate a few steps into a restaurant, or board a crowded bus, a lightweight model is essential. A stroller that folds down quickly and compactly is also a major advantage, especially for dining in cozy konobas (taverns) or storing it in your accommodation.

Durable Wheels for Cobblestones

This is non-negotiable. The Old Town's cobblestones and uneven stone slabs will rattle a flimsy stroller to pieces. Opt for a stroller with larger, more robust wheels, preferably with some form of suspension. Rubber wheels are far superior to cheap plastic ones, offering a smoother ride for your little one and easier pushing for you. A model with lockable front swivel wheels provides stability on rough terrain and maneuverability in tight spaces.

Baby Carrier: Your Secret Weapon

An insider tip from every parent who has visited Split: a baby carrier or sling is your most valuable accessory. For exploring the heart of Diocletian's Palace, climbing the Marjan Hill trails, or navigating the steepest parts of the Varoš neighborhood, a carrier is indispensable. It allows you to go where strollers simply can't, giving you the freedom to see everything without being limited by stairs and narrow passages. Many parents use a hybrid approach: using the stroller for the Riva and flat areas, and switching to the carrier for deep exploration of the Old Town.

Navigating Split's Key Areas with a Stroller

Knowing where you can and can't easily go with a stroller is key to planning your days. Here’s a breakdown of Split's main areas from a parent's perspective.

Diocletian's Palace: A Stroller Obstacle Course

The UNESCO World Heritage site is magnificent, but it was not built with wheels in mind. The main courtyard, the Peristyle, is accessible but its large stones are uneven and can be incredibly slippery, even when dry.

• Main Entrances: The easiest, step-free entrance is the Brass Gate (southern gate), which leads directly from the Riva into the Palace cellars. From there, a ramp (usually for vendors) leads up to the Peristyle. The Golden Gate (northern) and Iron Gate (western) also offer ground-level access into the Old Town maze.
• Challenges: The biggest hurdles are stairs. Access to the Cathedral of St. Domnius, the Bell Tower, the Temple of Jupiter, and the main cellar exhibition areas are all via steep staircases. You'll have to park the stroller and take turns or use a baby carrier.
• Insider Tip: Stick to the main east-west (Decumanus) and north-south (Cardo) streets within the palace walls for the relatively flattest routes. Don't be afraid to leave the stroller and explore a small alley on foot for a few minutes while your partner waits.

The Riva Promenade: A Stroller's Paradise

This is where you can relax. The Riva is a wide, beautifully maintained pedestrian promenade that stretches for approximately 1.7 kilometers. It's completely flat and paved, lined with palm trees and dozens of cafes with spacious outdoor seating. It’s the perfect place for a morning coffee, an afternoon stroll, or an evening gelato run, with plenty of space for your stroller and for toddlers to run around safely.

Marjan Hill: Choose Your Path Wisely

Marjan Park is Split's green lung and a wonderful escape from the city bustle. However, it's a hill, and not all paths are created equal.

• The Stroller-Friendly Route: From the city center, follow the signs for Marjan. The main paved road, Šetalište Marina Tartaglie, which winds its way up and around the hill, is fully accessible for strollers. It's a steady incline but manageable. This path leads to several viewpoints and eventually to Bene Beach, about 3 km from the Riva.
• The No-Go Zones: Avoid the forest trails and the stone staircases that lead directly up from the Varoš neighborhood unless you are prepared to carry everything. These are rugged hiking paths, not suitable for wheels.

Varoš and the Old Town's Side Streets

Outside the main palace walls, the charming neighborhoods of Varoš and the greater Old Town are characterized by a warren of impossibly narrow streets and countless stone stairways. These areas are beautiful to get lost in but are a nightmare with a stroller. Treat them as 'baby carrier only' territory.

Top 5 Stroller-Friendly Activities and Attractions in Split

1. Strolling the Riva Promenade: As mentioned, this is the number one activity. Enjoy the sea breeze, people-watch from a cafe, and let the kids enjoy the open space. The total length is perfect for a full nap-time walk. 2. A Day at Bačvice Beach: Located just a 1.2 km walk from the Old Town, Bačvice is Split's most famous city beach. It's primarily sandy with very shallow water, making it ideal for toddlers. A paved path leads right down to the beach, and several cafes have accessible terraces. A sunbed and umbrella rental costs approximately €15-€20 for the day. 3. Exploring Marjan Park's Paved Paths: Take the main paved road for a scenic walk. About 1.5 km up from the starting point, you'll find Vidilica Cafe, which offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and harbor. The terrace is spacious enough to accommodate a stroller. 4. Visit a Modern Mall (Mall of Split / City Center one): If you encounter a rainy day or need a break from the heat, Split's modern malls are a haven. They are fully accessible with elevators, spacious stores, food courts, and—most importantly—clean baby changing facilities. They are located about 4-5 km from the Old Town, easily reachable by a short Uber or Bolt ride for around €7-€10. 5. Taking a Ferry Day Trip: The Jadrolinija ferry port is just 500m from the palace and is very accessible. Ferries have ramps for boarding. A popular and easy day trip is to Supetar on the island of Brač. The ferry ride is about 50 minutes, and the town of Supetar itself is largely flat and pleasant to explore with a stroller.

Family-Friendly Dining: Restaurants with Space for Strollers

Finding a restaurant that can accommodate a stroller in the cramped Old Town can be tricky. The key is to look for places with a 'štekats'—a spacious outdoor terrace.

• Restaurants on the Riva: Nearly all cafes and restaurants along the Riva have large terraces and are the easiest option. Examples include Brasserie on 7 and Olive Tree.
• Fabrique Pub: Located just east of the Riva, this large, modern space has plenty of indoor and outdoor room, a casual menu, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's one of the most reliably spacious options near the center.
• Pizzerias: Places like Pizzeria Bokamorra or Bakra Steak & Pizza Bar, located just outside the main palace walls, often have more space than the tiny restaurants within.
• Insider Tip: When making a reservation, always mention you will have a stroller. This allows the restaurant to seat you at a more suitable table, often at the edge of the terrace, saving you stress on arrival.

Practical Tips for Parents Visiting Split

• Public Transport: Most city buses operated by Promet Split are modern, low-floor models with a designated space for strollers. However, they can become extremely crowded. A single-zone bus ticket costs around €1.50. For short distances, ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt are often more convenient and cost-effective for a family.
• Changing Facilities: As noted, these are rare. Your best bets are the modern malls, the Split airport, and sometimes larger, more modern cafes or restaurants. It's wise to carry a portable changing mat for emergencies.
• Supermarkets for Baby Supplies: You'll have no trouble finding baby essentials. Drugstores (DM, Bipa) and supermarkets (Konzum, Tommy, Spar) are plentiful. The DM on Marmontova Street, the main pedestrian shopping street, is very central and well-stocked.
• Best Time to Explore: The summer heat and crowds peak between 10 AM and 4 PM. Plan to explore the Old Town early in the morning (before 9:30 AM) or in the late afternoon. This makes for a more pleasant experience for both you and your child.