Top 7 Waterfalls Near Split Croatia (2025 Guide): Best Day Trips, Travel Tips & Map

Split is one of Croatia's most visited cities, known for its beaches, history, and easy access to nature. But did you know that there are many beautiful waterfalls near Split Croatia? These waterfalls are perfect for day trips, offering scenic beauty, peaceful surroundings, and outdoor activities. Whether you're into hiking, swimming, or just enjoying nature, this guide will help you explore the top waterfalls near Split Croatia in 2025.

Krka National Park – Skradinski Buk

Imagine walking along a wooden path with green trees all around and the sound of rushing water getting louder as you go. Suddenly, you see Skradinski Buk – a stunning chain of 17 waterfalls pouring into each other across 800 metres. It feels like nature is putting on a grand show just for you.

Located about 85 km from Split (around 1.5 hours by car), Skradinski Buk is perfect for boat rides, easy hikes, and beautiful nature photography. Entry fees range from €7 to €40 depending on the season, and there are toilets, restaurants, and souvenir shops to make your visit comfortable. Swimming is not allowed here anymore from 2025, but there is still so much to see and feel. The old stone water mills and small museum show how local families lived beside the river for centuries.

• Distance from Split: 85 km (around 1.5 hours by car)

• Activities: Boat rides, hiking, nature photography

• Entry Fee: Varies by season (from €7 to €40 per adult)

• Facilities: Toilets, restaurants, walking trails

• Tip: Swimming is not allowed at Skradinski Buk anymore (2025 rule)

As you stand watching the powerful falls, you realise that places like Skradinski Buk make you feel both small and deeply connected to the beauty of our world.

Roški Slap – Quieter Than Skradinski Buk

When you arrive at Roški Slap, it feels like walking into a hidden forest garden. Known as “The Necklace” because of its small cascading waterfalls lined up like pearls, it is quieter and more peaceful than Skradinski Buk. Located 90 km from Split, it takes about 1.5 hours by car.

Here, you can hike along easy trails under the trees, take a calm boat ride, or climb up to the Oziđana pećina cave for stunning views of the waterfalls and the river valley. Small local cafes nearby serve drinks and snacks after your walk.

• Distance from Split: 90 km (around 1.5 hours by car)

• Activities: Hiking, boat trips, cave exploring

• Entry Fee: Included in Krka Park ticket

• Facilities: Small cafes, hiking routes

• Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for fewer crowds

Before you leave, take one last peaceful look at the little falls flowing gently. It feels like nature is whispering to slow down and breathe

Gubavica Waterfalls – For Adventure Lovers

As you walk towards Gubavica Waterfalls, you hear water thundering down into a deep rocky canyon. Near the village of Zadvarje, just 50 km (1 hour by car) from Split, these waterfalls are a dream for adventure seekers.

Velika Gubavica is the big waterfall, dropping nearly 50 metres, while Mala Gubavica is smaller but equally beautiful. People love coming here for canyoning – jumping, sliding, and abseiling down the falls with trained guides. If you prefer, you can simply hike along the trail or swim in the pools below. Entry is free, but there are no shops, so bring your own water and snacks. Spring is the best time to see the falls with strong flowing water.

• Distance from Split: 50 km (around 1 hour by car)

• Activities: Canyoning, swimming, hiking

• Entry Fee: Free

• Facilities: Minimal, bring your own supplies

• Tip: Best visited during spring for full water flow

Velika Gubavica drops over 48 meters into a deep canyon. It's a dramatic scene that attracts photographers, hikers, and thrill-seekers. This area is part of a designated adventure zone, and guided canyoning tours operate daily from spring to autumn.

Cetina River Falls – Full of Activities

The Cetina River near Omiš is only 25 km (around 30 minutes by car) from Split but feels like an adventure playground. Its small waterfalls and rapids are perfect for rafting, kayaking, and Croatia’s longest zip line, which flies 700 metres across the canyon.

There are many tour companies here offering equipment and guided trips, making it safe for families and beginners. Children love it because they can join rafting trips or just swim in calm areas by the river.

• Distance from Split: 25 km (around 30 minutes by car)

• Activities: Rafting, kayaking, zip-lining

• Entry Fee: Free (some tours cost extra)

• Facilities: Equipment rentals, guided tours available

• Suitable For: Families, adventure groups

This location is great for those who want to mix nature with fun. The emerald water and surrounding cliffs make it a beautiful and exciting destination. The area also includes the longest zip line in Croatia, offering a 700-meter ride over the canyon.

Krčić Waterfall – Hidden Source of the Krka River

Krčić Waterfall is near Knin, about 100 km (1.5 hours by car) from Split. It marks the start of the Krka River and is often quiet and peaceful, surrounded by rocky hills and clean fresh air.

In spring, melting snow turns it into a strong and beautiful waterfall, but in summer it can dry up. There are no cafes or shops, so bring what you need. People come here to sit, relax, and take photos in silence.

• Distance from Split: 100 km (around 1.5 hours by car)

• Activities: Walking, sightseeing, relaxing

• Entry Fee: Free

• Facilities: Few, plan ahead

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (waterfall may dry in summer)

Unlike busy tourist spots, this waterfall near Split Croatia offers peace and quiet. The natural setting and fresh air are ideal for a peaceful break. Krčić is surrounded by rocky terrain, and during spring meltwater it becomes especially powerful.

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Zrmanja River Waterfalls – Clear Water and Canyon Views

About 120 km (2 hours by car) from Split, the Zrmanja River is known for its clear turquoise water and canyon views. It’s perfect for kayaking or rafting trips with guided tours that take you past small waterfalls like Veliki Buk.

Tour companies provide all equipment and safety training, making it great for beginners or families with children over six. As you paddle through the calm green water with cliffs on each side, you see fish swimming below and hear only nature around you.

• Distance from Split: 120 km (around 2 hours by car)

• Activities: Kayaking, swimming, rafting

• Entry Fee: Depends on activity (kayaking tours available)

• Facilities: Tour operators, rest areas

• Tip: Visit with a guided group for safety

 When your kayak journey ends and you look back at the waterfalls and cliffs, you feel proud for trying something new and thankful for seeing Croatia’s quiet side.

Muskovci Waterfalls – Local Picnic Spot

Muskovci is a small village near the Zrmanja River, about 110 km (2 hours by car) from Split. Its waterfalls are not tall but create beautiful pools perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a quiet day out.

Local cafes serve grilled fish and peka (meat and vegetables slow-cooked under a bell). Wooden bridges cross the river, adding to the charm. Families love coming here for picnics, letting kids play safely by the water.

• Distance from Split: 110 km (about 2 hours by car)

• Activities: Swimming, picnics, relaxing

• Entry Fee: Free

• Facilities: Local cafes, picnic tables

• Best Time to Visit: May to September

It’s a great place for families or couples wanting to escape the city for a quiet day. The nearby restaurants serve traditional Croatian food like peka and fresh river fish. There's also a wooden bridge with scenic views that adds charm to the picnic experience.

Conclusion

If you're visiting Croatia in 2025, make sure to include some of these waterfalls near Split Croatia in your plan. Whether you're into hiking, swimming, photography, or just relaxing in nature, these waterfalls offer something special. Most are easy to reach, and many can be enjoyed in a single day. From the famous Skradinski Buk to the peaceful Muskovci Waterfalls, there is a waterfall for every kind of traveler.

Exploring these spots helps you see the natural beauty of Croatia beyond the coast. Pack your day bag, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy the best waterfalls near Split Croatia.

FAQs

Q1: Can I swim at these waterfalls near Split Croatia?
Yes, swimming is allowed at Gubavica, Cetina River, Zrmanja, and Muskovci. It is not allowed at Skradinski Buk (as of 2025).

Q2. Which waterfalls are best for swimming?
You can swim at Gubavica Waterfalls, Cetina River, Zrmanja River, and Muskovci Waterfalls.

Q3. How far are the waterfalls from Split?
Most waterfalls are between 30 minutes to 2 hours by car from Split, making them perfect for day trips.

Q4: Are there guided tours to these places?
Yes, many agencies in Split offer day tours to Krka Waterfalls, Cetina River, and Zrmanja River.

Q5: What should I pack for a day trip?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, water shoes, and a camera. For Gubavica, bring canyoning gear if you're going for adventure.

Q6: Are these places safe for children?
Yes, places like Krka, Cetina, and Muskovci are family-friendly. Always supervise kids near water.

Q7: What's the best time to visit these waterfalls?
Spring and early summer are best for full waterfalls and mild weather. Some may dry up in late summer.