Marjan Forest Park covers the wooded hill on the western edge of Split's old town, a short walk from the centre. Pine trees shade the trails up to the top, and the climb gives you views over the city, the harbour and the islands. The park has small stone chapels, a botanical garden, the remains of a zoo and a playground. Entry is free, and the park is open 24 hours a day. Walk to the summit, then cool off at a beach on the way down.
The climb to the top
The walk up is the main event of a visit. Paths and stone steps climb through the pines, and the Marjan Stairway is the route many people take to the upper hill. The highest point, Telegrin, is reached after roughly 300 steps, so expect a steady climb with breaks on the shaded stretches.
Several trails branch off the main route through the forest. You can follow a loop that stays on the paths, or take a shorter walk and turn back. The south side of the hill is windier, which helps on hot days.
Viewpoints and the observation tower
Lookouts sit along the paths. The Vidilica cafe-bar stands at the edge of the park, where the road ends. The last stretch to it is a long flight of stairs, and the view over the city from there is the reward.
On Sedlo, the observation tower has an elevator and free toilets. Its panoramic views cost nothing to enjoy, and the tower can be reached by wheelchair and baby stroller.
Chapels, hermit caves and the old cemetery
Small stone chapels are scattered across the hillside, and one hermitage is built into the rock face. Cave dwellings once used by Christian hermits are still among the trees. The park also contains a 16th-century Jewish cemetery.
Treat the chapels as you would any historic place of worship. Keep your voice low and dress modestly when you go inside.
Beaches at either end of the hill
Bene Beach is reached by a walk through the park. It is a quiet spot that locals favour, and it has facilities that suit families.
Kašjuni Beach lies on the west side of the park and is not walkable from the old town. A taxi or Uber covers the distance in about ten minutes, and public bus line 12 also goes there. The paths let you link the viewpoints with a descent to either beach.
Getting there and getting around
The park is within walking distance of the old town. From the Riva, turn left along the promenade and look for the entrance on your right. Public bus line 12 also serves the park.
You cannot drive inside the park, but there is parking in front of it, and street parking there is free. Spaces are harder to find in summer, so allow extra time. The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
Picnics, sport and families
Picnic tables and a barbecue grill are on site, and the shaded trails suit a packed lunch. The park has a playground, and families can use the kid-friendly hikes. Dogs are allowed.
Basketball, volleyball and tennis courts are on the grounds, and there is a skateboarding area for those who want to use it.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
No. Entry to the park is free, and so is the observation tower on Sedlo.
Is Marjan Forest Park open 24 hours?
Yes, the park is open 24 hours a day, every day of the week.
How long do you need for a visit?
Plan half a day to walk the trails, see the viewpoints and, if you wish, swim at a beach.
Can you take the train up the hill?
A tourist train runs in the park, and visitors use it to ride up or down. Walking up and taking the train down is a common way to see the hill.
Is the park wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and the parking lot are wheelchair accessible. The observation tower can be reached by wheelchair and baby stroller.
