Split Travel Guide • Croatia Finds

Discover Split: Ancient Vibes, Seaside Style

Split is where old-world charm meets modern Mediterranean living. Built around a Roman emperor’s palace, Croatia’s second-largest city pulses with history—and a serious love for sunshine, good food, and Adriatic life. Whether you’re wandering cobblestone alleys, sipping coffee on the Riva promenade, or catching a ferry to a nearby island, Split will steal your heart in no time.

Why Visit Split?

Split is both a historic gem and a buzzing coastal hub. You can stroll through 1,700-year-old ruins, hit the beach, hike a forested hill, and party by the sea—all in one day.

What is Split famous for?

Split is best known for the 1,700-year-old Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that forms the heart of the city. It’s also famous for its Mediterranean vibe, nearby islands, Game of Thrones filming locations, and beautiful beaches.

Quick Facts About Split

Known for: Diocletian’s Palace, palm-lined promenade, vibrant food scene, and easy island access
Best time to visit: May to October; shoulder months (May, June, September & October) are ideal
Closest airport: Split Airport (SPU)

Best Places to Visit in Split

1. Diocletian’s Palace

Not just a palace—a living, breathing Roman complex where people still live, eat, and shop. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s also the beating heart of the city.

Don’t miss: Peristyle square, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the underground cellars (also a GoT filming location)

2. The Riva Promenade

This palm-lined seafront walkway is where Split comes alive. Morning espresso? Evening stroll? Ice cream at sunset? Yes, yes, and yes.

Don’t miss: Sunset views with a drink, local performances, and prime people-watching

3. Marjan Hill

Split’s “green lungs,” Marjan offers peaceful pine forests, walking trails, and sweeping views over the city and sea. Bring your walking shoes and a camera.

Don’t miss: The lookout at Telegrin, hidden beaches, and the charming old chapels

4. Bacvice Beach

The city’s main beach is sandy (a rarity in Croatia!) and always buzzing. Locals come here to sunbathe, swim, and play picigin, a quirky ball game you’ll probably get addicted to.

Don’t miss: Watching a match of picigin, and grabbing drinks from beach bars after dark

5. The Cobblestone Streets

Wandering the maze-like streets of the old town feels like stepping into another world. These time-worn alleyways are where everyday life meets ancient stone—and yes, many corners doubled as filming spots for Game of Thrones (hello, Daenerys and her dragons!).

Don’t miss: Exploring tucked-away courtyards, finding GoT filming locations, and getting deliciously lost among the shops and cafés

Top Things to Do in Split

Split is the kind of place where every turn leads to a surprise: Roman ruins, ancient churches, seaside cafés, or a secret beach.

What You Shouldn’t Miss:

Wander through Diocletian’s Palace: No maps needed—just explore and get lost.
Take a boat trip: Island-hop to Hvar, Brač (hello, Zlatni Rat!), or the Blue Lagoon.
Climb the cathedral bell tower: For a panoramic view over Split’s orange roofs and the Adriatic beyond.
Enjoy the nightlife: From cozy wine bars in the palace to beach clubs like Zenta and Tropic.
Join a food or wine tour: Local prosciutto, sheep cheese, Dalmatian wine… need we say more?

Where to Stay in Split

Split offers a mix of ancient stone houses, stylish apartments, and beachside hotels—so you’ll find your perfect vibe.

Top Picks for Staying in Split:

Inside the Old Town / Palace area: For history lovers and first-timers—everything’s at your doorstep.
Bacvice area: Perfect if you want a beach nearby but still be within walking distance of the center.
Veli Varoš & Marjan area: Charming, quiet, and close to nature—ideal for longer stays or families.

Best time to visit Split, Croatia

The best times to visit Split are late spring (May to early June) and early autumn (September to October). During these periods, you’ll enjoy comfortable temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F), and fewer crowds compared to the busy, hot summer months.

If you’re planning to visit during the height of summer (July and August), prepare for hot weather, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and very busy streets, particularly in attractions like Diocletian’s Palace and Riva promenade. To make the most of your summer trip, start your day early to explore the Old Town before it gets too crowded or too hot. Reserve accommodations in advance, as availability can be limited during this time.

Is Split worth visiting?

Absolutely! Split is a must-see in Croatia, known for its vibrant blend of ancient history, stunning coastlines, and Mediterranean charm. The city’s centerpiece, Diocletian’s Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a glimpse into the Roman era.

Beyond the city, Split offers stunning beaches like Bačvice and Kasjuni, easy ferry trips to nearby islands like Hvar and Brač, and access to nature spots such as Krka National Park. Whether you want to dive into history, relax by the sea, or explore breathtaking landscapes, Split has something for everyone.

diocetian palace split croatia - Split, Dalmatia

Getting to Split, Croatia

Split is easy to reach, whether you’re traveling within Croatia or coming from abroad, and it serves as an excellent base to explore the Dalmatian Coast. Here’s a quick guide to the best ways to get here:

By Plane: Split Airport (Resnik) is just 30–45 minutes from the city center. The airport shuttle is a convenient option, dropping you near the ferry port. Public buses (#37 and #38) are budget-friendly but less ideal with luggage. Renting a car is great for exploring beyond Split, but parking is scarce and pricey, especially as Old Town is pedestrian-only—confirm parking options with your accommodation.
By Ferry: Split’s harbor is the main ferry hub for nearby islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis, with frequent routes provided by operators like Jadrolinija and Krilo. International ferries also connect Split to cities like Ancona, Italy. Summer ferries are busy, so book tickets early.
By Car: Driving offers flexibility, with Croatia’s A1 highway providing a smooth 4-hour route from Zagreb to Split, alongside great stops like Plitvice Lakes or Zadar. However, parking in Split is limited and expensive, so confirm availability before booking accommodation. Remember that Old Town is car-free.
By Bus: The well-located bus terminal connects Split to major Croatian cities like Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Zadar, as well as international destinations. Buses are frequent, comfortable, and usually equipped with air conditioning.
By Train: Trains link Split to Zagreb, with journeys lasting 6–8 hours. While slower than buses, the route is scenic, and the train station is conveniently located near the ferry and bus terminals.

Where to eat in Split

I’ve had the opportunity to try out plenty of restaurants during my trips to Split and as with much of Croatia, I’ve never been disappointed in the food. That being said, these are the restaurants that really stood out to me and I highly recommend.

Kat’s Kitchen Deli – Brunch lovers, don’t skip this gem! Their avocado toast and beautifully presented pastries are a treat for both the palate and the eyes. Pair your meal with a great cup of coffee for the perfect start to your day.
Zrno Soli – Ideal for a seafood feast. Situated in the marina, this upscale restaurant offers Mediterranean classics with a contemporary touch. It’s a top choice for special occasions, with refined dishes like fresh fish and shrimp risotto.
Fig – For unique, globally inspired plates. Nestled within Diocletian’s Palace, Fig serves up creative options like spicy eggs, California toast, and sweet potato fries with chimichurri. Wash it down with an iced latte or mango lassi for a fresh twist.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar – A go-to for modern Dalmatian cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Located in a stylishly converted hardware store, Bokeria specializes in dishes like black risotto, homemade pasta, or sea bass, all paired with excellent local wines.
Konoba Korta – Perfect for local dishes and welcoming vibes. This cozy spot near Diocletian’s Palace offers authentic Croatian meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Their attentive staff makes you feel at home, and the kitchen is great at accommodating dietary needs.
MOKOSH restoran – A garden oasis with a mix of Mediterranean and international fare. This hidden spot features stunning outdoor seating and a more relaxed fine-dining experience. Try their beef cheeks or truffle dishes, and don’t skip dessert—it’s exceptional.
Villa Spiza – A must-visit for simple, fresh, and traditional Croatian cooking. This tiny, tucked-away bistro changes its menu daily, serving dishes like grilled fish, hearty stews, or homemade gnocchi. Arrive early, as seating is limited, but trust me—it’s worth the wait.
Gelateria Emiliana – Some of the best artisan gelato in Split. Located along the Riva promenade, this popular spot serves creamy treats in both classic and unique flavors. Grab a cone and enjoy it with a view of the Adriatic.
Vylet Café & Ice Cream Bar – Another great pick for ice cream lovers. Central and convenient, this spot offers refreshing gelato that’s the perfect way to cool down after exploring Split’s lively streets or waterfront.

Plan Your Split Trip

Split is more than just a stopover on the way to the islands—it’s a destination in its own right. With ancient ruins, vibrant culture, sea-splashed adventures, and easy-going Mediterranean vibes, you’ll wish you had more time here.

Make the most of your visit: (COMING SOON)