Marjan Forest Park (Park-šuma Marjan) is a pine-covered hill rising 178 m directly west of Split's old town, offering sweeping views over the city, the Adriatic and its islands from what is Split's signature panorama. Protected as a forest park since 1964 and now run by a dedicated public institution, it is both a beloved everyday retreat for jogging and strolling locals and the backdrop of countless postcard photos. In 2024 a new 19-metre observation deck (Promatračnica) opened near the summit, and by 2026 it has become the most popular viewing spot. As a free, open park, it is ideal for an early-morning or sunset climb to take in the vista.
Highlights
The 360° panorama of Split and the Adriatic from the 19 m summit observation deck (Promatračnica)
The first terrace, Vidilica viewpoint and café, looking straight down over the old town's red rooftops
Hidden historic chapels on the hill, including the 13th-century fishermen's church of St. Nicholas and the 15th-century church of St. Jerome (Sv. Jere)
Heritage sites such as the Jewish cemetery, founded in 1573 with over 700 surviving graves
The shaded Mediterranean pine trails and the southern promenade leading to the Ivan Meštrović Gallery
Good to know
SafetyReaching the first viewpoint from the old town means climbing roughly 300 stone steps and a steady incline. Wear grippy shoes and, especially in summer, carry water, as drinking fountains are sparse.
SafetyLeaving the paved main paths for unsecured forest trails is at your own risk. Since autumn 2025 a retaining-wall repair has restricted part of the Meštrović Promenade, so expect diversions and follow posted signs.
SeasonSummer fire risk in Dalmatia is very high. Smoking, open flames and glass bottles are forbidden in the forest, and access to certain zones may be banned on hot, windy days.
SeasonThe summit and observation deck have almost no shade and fierce midday sun; go early or near sunset. The observation deck is closed at night and in bad weather.
RulesThe whole park is a Plastic-Free Zone: avoid single-use plastic and carry your trash out. The 19 m deck is free but limited to a maximum of 10 people at a time.
MannersThis is a living recreation space for locals and a protected nature area. Keep to marked paths, don't pick plants or disturb wildlife, and behave quietly and modestly at the chapels (St. Jerome and St. Nicholas), which are places of worship.
CautionThe park and its observation deck are free; there is no admission fee. Don't pay anyone demanding an 'entry charge' or offering impromptu guided tours or parking help, and beware of taxi overcharging, since it is only a 10–15 minute walk from the centre.
Practical info
This is a free, open park with no ticket; from the old town the Marjan stairs (Marjanske skale) lead to the first viewpoint in a 10–15 minute walk, and on weekdays an electric shuttle from the Info Centre on Trumbićeva obala or a Promet city bus also serve the hill. Opening hours for the observation deck, the shuttle timetable and any construction closures change seasonally, so check the latest on the official site (marjan-parksuma.hr) before visiting.
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