The city of Split is full of character and history, but after a long day of sightseeing everyone needs a break. Marjan Park is a forested peninsular, just a few short minutes from the city center. It offers visitors a chance to escape the hectic pace of the city.  Marjan is cherished by the citizens of Split for generations and is considered the “lungs of the city”. In 1964 it was declared a park and since then has been a protected piece of land in Split. The park covers a large area, the size of New York’s Central Park and is over 3 km long.  It juts out and up to the west of the city and is a magnificent escape.

We were very fortunate to have an apartment within minutes of the park, allowing us to spend hours exploring and hiking every trail possible.

Marjan is at the top of the Varos neighborhood and can be reached after a short hike of steep stairs. The views from the lookout point offer some of the best of the city. The rocky mountains that stand behind the city offer the perfect backdrop to take in the surrounding landscape. Don’t let the climb dissuade you from reaching this point as the views from the lookout point are well worth your effort! You can stop at this point and just take in the view or continue. But be prepared there are many, many more steps to reach the top.

The park has numerous trails throughout and you could spend hours exploring all the hidden corners of this magnificent forested green space. It is a favorite place for walking, jogging, climbing, or riding a bike. From the moment you start the ascent you will notice a change, leaving the buzz of the city behind. As the tourist season heats up in July and August, this is a great escape from the heat and chaos, with its shady trails.

After a short climb along a wide gravel path you will reach the thirteenth-century St. Nicholas Chapel (Sveti Nikola). St. Nicholas was the patron saint of sailors, fishermen, and travelers. As you continue to explore the park you can find even more medieval chapels and cave dwellings once inhabited by Christian hermits.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The highest peak, called Telegrin, is just 314 steps (in addition to trails) and is worth the climb on a hilly headland offering panoramic views of Split, the coastline, and nearby islands.

 

After a long day of exploring you’ll find there are several beaches situated along the Marjan peninsula. Most are pebbly with deep teal blue waters.  The perfect way to end your experience is by descending to Kasjuni beach and taking the bus back to Split.