Split
About Split
Split is Croatia's second-largest city and the heart of Dalmatia. Built in and around the ruins of the Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — the city is a living museum where ancient walls house modern shops, bars, and apartments. The waterfront Riva promenade buzzes with energy day and night.
Beyond the palace, Split offers beautiful beaches, a vibrant market scene, and serves as the main ferry hub for Croatia's most popular islands including Hvar, Brač, and Vis.
Useful links:
Quick Tips
- Currency: Euro (EUR) since January 2023. Cards widely accepted; some market vendors prefer cash.
- Transport: The Old Town is walkable. Promet buses cover the wider area. Ferries to islands depart from the port next to the Old Town.
- Tipping: 10–15% at restaurants is appreciated. Not obligatory at casual spots.
- Beaches: Bačvice beach is famous for picigin — a unique local ball game played in shallow water. Join in!
- Markets: Visit the Green Market (Pazar) every morning for fresh fruit, vegetables, and local cheese at great prices.
Interesting Places to Visit
Diocletian's Palace
A massive Roman palace built in the 4th century that forms the entire core of the Old Town. Explore the underground cellars, Peristyle square, and the Temple of Jupiter. One of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Originally Diocletian's mausoleum, converted into a cathedral in the 7th century — one of the oldest in the world still in use. Climb the bell tower for spectacular views over the city and harbor.
Marjan Hill
A forested park peninsula west of the Old Town. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints, medieval chapels, and secluded beaches. The summit offers 360-degree views of Split, the islands, and the Mosor mountains.
Riva Promenade
Split's beloved seafront promenade lined with palm trees and cafés. The perfect place for a morning coffee or an evening stroll. Watch ferries come and go while enjoying the Adriatic breeze.
Klis Fortress
A medieval fortress perched on a cliff 10 km north of Split. Used as a filming location for Game of Thrones (Meereen). Dramatic views and fascinating history of resisting Ottoman sieges.
Bačvice Beach
Split's most popular sandy beach, a short walk from the Old Town. Famous for picigin, a traditional ball game. Lively atmosphere with beach bars and nightlife in summer.
Salona (Solin)
The ruins of the ancient Roman capital of Dalmatia, just 5 km from Split. Explore amphitheater remains, early Christian basilicas, and city walls. Far less crowded than the palace.
When to Visit
Split has a Mediterranean climate with long, hot summers and mild winters:
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Ideal for sightseeing. Warm days (14–23°C), manageable crowds. The palace and Marjan Hill are at their best. Sea becomes swimmable by late May.
- Feast of Saint Domnius celebrations (May 7)
- Wildflowers on Marjan Hill
- Great prices before peak season
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Hot and sunny (25–33°C). Peak season with vibrant nightlife and beach culture. Ferries to islands run frequently. Book accommodation well in advance.
- Split Summer Festival — theater and music
- Ultra Europe music festival (July)
- Picigin tournaments at Bačvice
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
September is still summer-like (20–27°C). Crowds thin, prices drop. The sea stays warm enough for swimming into October. Excellent food and wine season.
- Grape harvest and wine events
- Split Film Festival (September)
- Perfect weather for hiking Marjan
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Mild (5–12°C) with some rain. Very few tourists. Many locals reclaim the city, and authentic day-to-day life is on full display. Some island ferries have reduced schedules.
- Split Christmas Fair and markets
- Carnival celebrations (February)
- Lowest accommodation prices
Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)
Split has an excellent food scene that's more affordable than Dubrovnik. These spots are local favorites:
Konoba Marjan$ – $$
Traditional Dalmatian konoba near Marjan Hill. Grilled fish, octopus salad, and homemade pasta. Simple setting, outstanding food. Cash preferred.
Uje Oil Bar$$
Creative Mediterranean cuisine centered around Croatian olive oils. Tasting platters, bruschetta, and fresh salads. Located in the palace walls with a beautiful courtyard.
Fife$
A Split institution since 1956. No-frills seafood and Dalmatian home cooking. Huge portions of fish stew, grilled sardines, and pasta for incredibly low prices. Near the fish market.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar$$
Modern bistro on the Riva waterfront. Mediterranean dishes with a contemporary twist. Excellent wine list featuring Croatian varieties. Great for a special dinner without the fine-dining price.
Kantun Paulina$
Beloved sandwich shop inside the palace walls. Their signature pulled pork and tuna sandwiches are legendary among locals. Perfect quick lunch for under €5.
Šperun$ – $$
Family-run konoba in the Veli Varoš neighborhood. Traditional peka (meat or octopus under a bell-shaped lid), soparnik, and local wine. Cozy atmosphere, honest prices.
Pizzeria Portas$
Locals rate this as Split's best pizza. Thin-crust, wood-fired, generous toppings. Large pizzas for €6–9. Located just outside the palace walls near the Golden Gate.