We like to say that Split is an excellent destination for a family vacation, because every generation can find something to enjoy. Of course, things are always easier in the summer, because sea and beach are usual way to spend some time on a vacation. However, how to entertain a kid in Split in some other season, when beach-going is not an option, or late spring surprise us with a rain? I just met nice Finnish family, they travel all the way from the north to enjoy Mediterranean, but were welcomed with a heavy rain. Here are some of the solution I have offered them, in completely random order.

1

Marjan hill is always attractive solution. Practically in the city centre, and yet secluded like you are somewhere in a countryside. I had a blog about everything Marjan has to offer, and trust me; there is no better way to spend some quality time with your family while in Split. Rent a bike, or just walk and enjoy views from some of the viewing points in this forest park, which is also one of the most important city symbols.

2

As much as it's interesting for grown-ups to explore rich Split's heritage, it can also be attractive for the young ones. You just need to hit the right button. Last summer I guided an American family, and their ten-year old son was a genuine expert for the Roman Empire. He truly enjoyed browsing around monuments, reading Latin inscriptions, or Roman numbers. Take your kids to the Diocletian's Palace's substructures, they look like some ancient dungeon. Show them sphynxes, invent a game of not getting lost in the labyrinth-like historical old town. Teach them how to guess what time it is by looking at the old city clock with 24 digits (as soon as you realize how to do it). Look for noble families' coats of arms on old palaces, etc. There are so many things to get them interested. One of them for sure is a salutation by Emperor Diocletian and his wife Prisca, a spectacle happening every day at noon whole summer at the main Palace's square Peristil.

3

It would be great if museums in Split would have been more children-oriented, but there is always something you can find to make them interesting. One of those which might be a good option is Etnographic Museum. Instead of art pieces or ancient artifacts, there you can learn about real life in the past in Split and Dalmatia. Good choice is also Split City Museum with plenty of exhibits from the past of Split.

Of course, if your kid is not really a museum type, you can get close enough with the Froggyland, unique collection of stuffed frogs, set in human situations. A somewhat bizarre exhibition, but most of the kids are mad about them.

4

How about going out of Split? No need to travel far, it's enough to visit ruins of ancient city of Salona. There, the same rules apply like when visiting Diocletian's Palace. It's hard to find a child who will not enjoy listening about gladiators, or ancient Romans wearing togas and walking around their cities 2,000 years ago.

On your way to Salona (or on your way back to Split) you can also stop in a picturesque fishermen's village Vranjic. There, you must visit the biggest aquarium in Croatia, with fish species from Adriatic and other seas around the world, including real sharks.

5

Last but not least, why don't you just let your kid play? In every neighbourhood in Split you will find playgrounds, they are also in bigger hotels, some of them are placed in shopping malls. Not to mention that beaches can be fun places even without swimming. It's enough to get there, and let children have fun for themselves. Of course, you will pay attention, but Split is generally safe place. This option brings another bonus; good chances are that your child will find new friend(s). Maybe they won't speak same language, but language of play is universal.