Family-Friendly Adventures in Podstražje, Croatia!

Budikovac Island (Veliki Budikovac)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Budikovac Island (Veliki Budikovac)

Morning: Arrival and Beach Time

Start your adventure to Budikovac Island by catching a morning boat from the town of Hvar. These boats generally depart around 10 am, offering a scenic 30-minute ride to the island. As you glide across the Adriatic Sea, keep an eye out for dolphins that occasionally grace these waters.

Upon arrival, head straight to the pristine pebble beach located on the southeast side of the island. It’s a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. The shallow edges are safe for children to swim, and you can rent snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant sea life.

Midday: Explore and Lunch

After some beach fun, take a leisurely walk to explore the small island, which is only inhabited by one person year-round! This makes for a fascinating story to share with the kids about isolation and self-sustainability. Visit the local farm to see donkeys and peacocks, which the kids will love.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic by the beach or dine at the only restaurant on the island. They serve fresh seafood and local delicacies, providing an authentic taste of Croatian cuisine right next to the sea.

Afternoon: Kayaking and Departure

In the afternoon, rent kayaks to paddle around the island’s beautiful blue lagoon, a serene and protected area ideal for families. The calm waters here are perfect for beginners and provide a unique view of the rugged island landscape.

Conclude your visit by catching the late afternoon boat back to Hvar, filled with memorable experiences and family bonding moments on the tranquil Budikovac Island.

This itinerary offers a blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion, ideal for a family day out in one of Croatia’s hidden gems!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Riva Promenade (Riva Split Waterfront)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the beautiful Riva Promenade in Split, a bustling and picturesque waterfront that’s perfect for a family day out! Here’s a detailed itinerary to help you enjoy every moment.

Morning: Arrival and Breakfast

Start your day early by arriving at Riva Promenade. If you’re staying in Split, it’s an easy walk from most central locations. Otherwise, you can park at one of the nearby public parking areas. Grab breakfast at one of the charming cafes along the promenade, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and a view of the harbor.

Mid-Morning: Stroll and Explore

After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Enjoy the palm-lined walkway and the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the islands in the distance. The promenade is also a great place to learn about the local culture; street performers and musicians are commonplace. Be sure to take a photo at the famous "Greeting to the Sun" installation.

Lunch: Picnic or Local Cuisine

For lunch, pick up some local delicacies like "burek" or "ćevapi" from a nearby vendor and have a picnic by the sea, or dine in one of the family-friendly restaurants along the promenade, where you can enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian dishes.

Afternoon: Diocletian"s Palace

Just a short walk from the Riva, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Diocletian"s Palace. This ancient palace is a marvel of Roman architecture and offers plenty of intriguing nooks and crannies that kids will love to explore. Join a guided tour for a more educational experience.

Evening: Relax and Enjoy

Return to the Riva for a relaxing evening. Many cafes and bars offer outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying the sunset over the sea. The promenade is beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere for a leisurely walk to end your day.

This itinerary ensures a delightful mix of relaxation, exploration, and cultural immersion at Riva Promenade, all within a family-friendly framework. Enjoy your visit!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski) in Split, Croatia

Morning: Arrival and Exploring Diocletian"s Palace

Begin your day early by heading to the historic center of Split. Access is easy via public transportation or taxi to the main promenade, Riva, which is close to all major attractions. Start with a guided tour of Diocletian"s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient palace is a marvel of Roman architecture and offers intriguing tales perfect for igniting the imaginations of young minds.

Mid-Morning: Visit to Gregory of Nin Statue

A short walk from Diocletian’s Palace, find the imposing statue of Gregory of Nin. Created by Ivan Meštrović in 1929, this impressive bronze statue stands about 8 meters tall, making it an awe-inspiring sight for both adults and kids. Teach the kids a fun local tradition: rubbing the statue’s big toe for good luck. This spot offers a great photo opportunity!

Lunch: Picnic at Marjan Forest Park

Pack a picnic and head to Marjan Forest Park, just a 15-minute walk from Gregory of Nin. Enjoy your lunch surrounded by nature and panoramic views of Split. The park also has playgrounds where children can play and expend some energy.

Afternoon: Stroll and Ice Cream on Riva Promenade

Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll back to the Riva Promenade. Treat the family to some gelato from one of the many local ice cream shops. Enjoy your treats while soaking up the lively atmosphere of the waterfront, watching boats, and enjoying street performances – a perfect end to an engaging family day out.

Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sunscreen, as Split enjoys sunny days throughout much of the year. Also, keep some local currency handy for small purchases like ice cream and souvenirs.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Poljud Stadium (Stadion Poljud)

Why Visit?

Visiting Poljud Stadium in the beautiful coastal city of Split, Croatia, can be a memorable experience for your family. Known as the home of the Hajduk Split football club, this stadium is celebrated not only for its sports but also for its unique seashell-like architecture.

### Morning: Tour of Poljud Stadium

Start your day with a guided tour of Poljud Stadium, usually available in the morning. You can easily reach the stadium by public transport (bus lines 17 and 8 are handy) or by a 20-minute walk from the city center. The tour will captivate you with stories of legendary matches, the stadium’s history since its opening in 1979, and the thrilling atmosphere of local football culture. Don’t miss the trophy room to see the club"s proud history!

### Lunch: Picnic at Marjan Forest Park

After exploring the stadium, head to the nearby Marjan Forest Park, just a 15-minute walk away. Grab some local snacks like "burek" or "ćevapi" from a nearby "pekara" (bakery) and enjoy a relaxing picnic with scenic views of the Adriatic Sea and Split’s skyline.

### Afternoon: Swimming and Relaxing at Bene Beach

Spend your afternoon at Bene Beach, located on the western side of Marjan Hill. It"s a great spot for families, offering crystal clear waters, pine shade, and various recreational facilities. The beach is a short bus ride (line 12) from Marjan’s main entrance.

### Evening: Stroll along Riva Promenade

Cap off your day with a leisurely stroll along the Riva Promenade as the sun sets. It’s a vibrant place where locals come to enjoy the end of the day, offering numerous cafes and ice cream shops that are perfect for families.

This mix of historic exploration, nature, and relaxation makes for a perfect family day out at Poljud Stadium and its surroundings!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Peristyle Square (Peristil)

Why Visit?

Welcome to the heart of Split, Croatia, where the ancient and magnificent Peristyle Square awaits your family for a memorable exploration! Here’s a family-friendly itinerary to ensure everyone from toddlers to grandparents enjoys this historical gem.

Morning: Arrival and Exploration

Start your day early to beat the crowds and savor the cool morning air. Peristyle Square, part of the Diocletian"s Palace complex—a UNESCO World Heritage site—is easily accessible by foot from any part of Split"s historic center. Begin at the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, just off the square, which offers a fascinating glimpse into Roman architecture converted into a beautiful Christian church. Don"t miss climbing the bell tower for a panoramic view of the city—though it might be a challenge for the little ones or elderly family members.

Lunch Break: Local Delights

Around noon, step into one of the charming restaurants surrounding the square. Many offer traditional Croatian dishes like "pašticada" or freshly caught seafood, perfect for a family meal. Enjoy your lunch with a view of the historical buildings that encircle the square.

Afternoon: Learn and Play

Post-lunch, join a family-friendly guided tour available at the tourist info located at the square. The guides often dress in Roman attire, making the historical journey engaging for kids. Learn about the square"s role in Diocletian’s retirement life and its transformation over centuries.

Evening: Relax and Reflect

As the day winds down, grab some gelato from a nearby shop and sit back at the square to enjoy performances by local artists. Street musicians and actors often perform here, bringing the history of the place to life in a way that"s entertaining for all ages.

Before heading back, snap some family pictures with the dramatic backdrop of Peristyle Square lit up at night, capturing memories of a day well-spent in the heart of Split’s history. Enjoy your family trip to this enchanting site!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.