Split is a lively coastal city with a compact historic center, beautiful beaches, and plenty of restaurants and attractions within walking distance. But once you start thinking about exploring the surrounding region, having a car can make your trip much more flexible and rewarding.
When You Don't Really Need a Car
If you're staying inside Split Old Town or the city center, a car isn't always necessary for everyday activities. The historic center is very walkable, and many highlights are just a short stroll away:
Many visitors enjoy spending their first days simply walking around the city and soaking in the atmosphere. This is completely feasible without a car. In fact, many travelers choose car rental near Bačvice Beach for just one or two days of their trip — enjoying the walkable city center first, and then renting a vehicle when they're ready to explore the region.
When Renting a Car Makes a Big Difference
Once you decide to explore outside Split, that's when renting a car in Split downtown becomes genuinely useful. Public transport does exist, but it can be limited if you want to visit multiple places in one day or travel at your own pace.
With a car, you can easily plan day trips to some of the most beautiful destinations in Dalmatia. See our full guide to the best day trips from Split by car:
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National parks Krka National Park (~1 hour) and Plitvice Lakes (~2.5 hours) are much easier to visit with your own car and on your own schedule.
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Coastal towns Trogir, Omiš, and Makarska are all short drives away and offer a very different atmosphere from the busier Split waterfront.
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Island exploration Car ferries from Split's ferry port connect to Brač, Hvar, and Vis — and you can bring your rental car on board to explore the whole island, not just the port town.
Many travelers spend their first 1–2 days walking Split's Old Town without a car, then rent a vehicle for the second half of their stay to explore the coast and surroundings. It's a great balance between city time and road-trip freedom.
Our Advice
If you're staying mainly inside Split Old Town, you may not need a car right away. But if you want to experience more of Dalmatia — its coastal towns, national parks, and hidden beaches — renting a car in Split city center gives you the freedom to explore whenever you like.
And if you're staying nearby, picking up a car from Hotel Park Split is one of the easiest ways to begin your journey along the Dalmatian coast. For tips on what it's like once you're behind the wheel, see our guide on driving in Split.
