Marjan Forest Park
A verdant oasis offering stunning Adriatic views, hiking trails, and serene coves on a picturesque peninsula.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Marjan Forest Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A verdant oasis offering stunning Adriatic views, hiking trails, and serene coves on a picturesque peninsula.
"Loved the gorgeous trees while hiking up to the top of this mountain!"
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially in summer. Drinkable water fountains are available at key points.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and many steps require sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic City Views
Summit Lookout Points
Ascend to the top for breathtaking vistas of Split and the Adriatic Sea. A truly unforgettable sight.

Tranquil Coves
Coastal Areas
Discover secluded coves perfect for picnicking, swimming, and soaking in the stunning Croatian coastline.

Botanical Garden Oasis
Within the Park
Wander through a lush botanical garden, alive with diverse flora, butterflies, and birdlife.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key
Navigating the Slopes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Budget friendly tips Split
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially in summer. Drinkable water fountains are available at key points.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and many steps require sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable trek.
Running in Split
A couple days in Split Croatia
🚡 Consider the Funicular
A funicular train offers a convenient way down to the old town from the peak.
🦋 Spot Local Wildlife
The park is teeming with butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. Keep an eye out!
Swim around Marjan
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Carry Plenty of Water
Essential for hikes, especially in summer. Drinkable water fountains are available at key points.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and many steps require sturdy footwear for a safe and enjoyable trek.
🚡 Consider the Funicular
A funicular train offers a convenient way down to the old town from the peak.
🦋 Spot Local Wildlife
The park is teeming with butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. Keep an eye out!
🏊♀️ Explore Hidden Coves
Discover beautiful, secluded coves for swimming and relaxation along the coast.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Marjan Forest Park's stunning panoramic views and beautiful, secluded coves perfect for swimming and picnics. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife are also frequently praised. However, some find the steep climbs and numerous steps challenging, especially in the summer heat.
"An absolute must-do while in Split if you’re able to walk up hundreds of steps! Loved the gorgeous trees while hiking up to the top of this mountain! Early June was quite hot, however there’s plenty of shade from the trees and a fountain for fresh water at the chapel (half way point) and there’s a lovely beach on the other side to cool you down.
There seemed to be a road for those wanting to drive up as well. summer"
Nazanine Pineda
"What a place. Very steep slopes and many, many steps leading up. We were very presently surprised by a ditto train at the peak waiting to take people down to the old town. We hopped on that for the decent, saved a fair walk.
If able, it's wonderful lots of nature, plants, and birds to see topped off with a stunning view at the top.plenty of stop breaks and places in the shade. Take a bottle of water with you."
harri frams
"A park worth to walk. Olease reserve drinking water and some snacks. Dista nces are not far, but You'll have up and downhill and it's demanding in heat of the sun. There are some water posts (at the old zoo etc.) and the water ia drinkable. There was a modern sightseeing tower and it was free to visit up! And there is a lift You can use, so it' s accessible by wheelchair and baby trolleys! Worth to visit!"
Tommi Hirvelä
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marjan Forest Park is easily accessible from Split. You can walk from the city center, taking about 20-30 minutes to reach the base. Alternatively, there are bus routes that stop near the park entrances. For those who prefer not to walk uphill, a funicular train operates from the peak down to the old town, and there's also a lift for accessibility.
Yes, there is a road that allows you to drive up into Marjan Forest Park. This can be a good option if you have mobility issues or prefer to access higher points more directly. Parking is available at various points within the park.
While there are paths within Marjan Forest Park, it's important to be aware of cyclists, especially on narrower trails. The park is primarily a walking and hiking destination, so exercise caution if cycling.
The best way to explore Marjan Forest Park is on foot, allowing you to fully appreciate the nature and views. Wear comfortable shoes as there are many steps and steep inclines. You can choose to hike to the summit or explore the various trails and coves.
While there isn't extensive public transport within the park itself, a funicular train offers a convenient descent from the peak to the old town, and a lift is available for accessibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Marjan Forest Park is a public park and entry is free for all visitors. You can explore its trails, gardens, and viewpoints without any admission fee.
Marjan Forest Park is generally open 24 hours a day, as it's a natural park. However, specific facilities within the park, like cafes or visitor centers, may have their own operating hours.
The modern sightseeing tower at the peak of Marjan Forest Park is typically free to visit, offering even more expansive views of Split and the surrounding islands.
Yes, you can swim in the sea around Marjan. There are beautiful coves and beaches accessible from the park where swimming is permitted and popular.
Generally, there are no major restrictions, but it's always good to be mindful of the natural environment. Avoid littering and respect the flora and fauna. Be aware of mountain bikers on some trails.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Marjan Forest Park offers a variety of activities including hiking, jogging, picnicking, swimming in coves, visiting the botanical garden, and enjoying panoramic views from the summit. There are also historical chapels and ruins to discover.
The summit of Marjan Hill offers the most spectacular panoramic views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands. There are also several smaller lookout points along the trails that provide beautiful vistas.
While there aren't many formal restaurants within the park, you'll find several water posts with drinkable water, especially at points like the old zoo and the chapel. Many visitors bring their own snacks and drinks for picnics in the coves.
Yes, there is a lift available in Marjan Forest Park, making parts of it accessible for wheelchairs and baby strollers. Some of the main paths are also relatively smooth, though the terrain can be challenging in places.
Marjan Forest Park is rich in Mediterranean vegetation, with pine trees, cypress, and various wildflowers. It's also a haven for wildlife, with numerous butterflies, birds, and insects to observe.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit viewpoints offer incredible panoramic shots of Split and the sea. The secluded coves provide picturesque scenes for relaxed photography, and the botanical garden is perfect for capturing vibrant flora and fauna.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning from the higher viewpoints.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city and sea views. A macro lens can be useful for photographing the diverse plant and insect life. A standard zoom lens will cover most needs.
Look out for the charming chapels scattered throughout the park, the unique rock formations along the coast, and the vibrant wildflowers in bloom during spring. The contrast between the green forest and blue sea is also a classic shot.
Drone regulations can vary, and it's advisable to check local rules before flying. Generally, flying drones over populated areas or sensitive natural parks may require permits or be restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for the old zoo area, which can be an interesting point of discovery for kids. The open spaces and natural environment encourage active play, and the stunning views from the top provide a rewarding experience for the whole family. Remember to keep a close eye on children, especially near the water and on steeper trails.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Hikers
Don't miss the opportunity to reach the summit for the most spectacular panoramas. Consider bringing a map or using a navigation app to explore different routes, including those leading to the secluded coves along the coast. The diverse terrain ensures an engaging experience for any avid hiker looking to discover the natural beauty surrounding Split.
🧘♀️ Relaxation Seekers
Even if you prefer not to tackle the strenuous hikes, you can still enjoy the park's beauty. Accessing the park via the road or utilizing the lift can lead you to more accessible viewpoints and resting spots. Find a shaded bench under the pine trees, listen to the birds, and let the natural beauty of Marjan rejuvenate your spirit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Views
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, there are alternative ways to enjoy the park's heights. A modern sightseeing tower at the summit offers elevated views, and importantly, a lift is available, making the park accessible for individuals with mobility challenges, including wheelchair users and those with baby strollers. Additionally, a funicular train operates from the peak down to the old town, providing a convenient and scenic descent after a day of exploration. This blend of challenging hikes and accessible options ensures that everyone can experience the beauty of Marjan.
Discovering Marjan's Coastal Gems
Visitors can legally swim around the Marjan coast, exploring its many inlets and bays. While some areas might appear private, the coastline is generally accessible for swimming. Bringing an orange reflex buoy is a smart safety measure, especially if you plan to swim further out or explore more remote areas. The experience of swimming in these clear Adriatic waters, surrounded by the lush greenery of Marjan, is a highlight for many who visit Split.
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