A complete guide to Split, Croatia, from the ancient Diocletian's Palace and vibrant Riva waterfront to nearby islands and stunning beaches. Covers historic landmarks, local culture, outdoor activities, and the best Dalmatian food and wine experiences.
The grand open-air courtyard at the heart of Diocletian's Palace, built around 305 AD. Originally the ceremonial entrance to the emperor's quarters, today it hosts cafes, buskers, and sometimes opera performances on the steps. The acoustics are remarkable. Visit in the morning for fewer crowds.
See the Cathedral of St. Domnius (Diocletian's mausoleum)
Sit on the steps and people-watch
Climb the Cathedral of St. Domnius bell tower
The cathedral was built inside Diocletian's original mausoleum, making it one of the oldest cathedral buildings in the world. The bell tower climb (HRK 25 / about EUR 3.30) involves narrow steps with open-air views that get more dramatic as you ascend. The 360-degree view from the top covers the palace, harbor, and mountains.
Walk through the basement halls (Substructures)
The underground cellars mirror the layout of the imperial apartments that once stood above them. Now partially excavated, they give a sense of the palace's original scale. Admission about EUR 8. A small market selling Croatian souvenirs operates in part of the basement. These halls were also used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Enter through the Golden Gate (Porta Aurea)
The northern entrance to the palace, once the grandest of the four gates. Just outside stands the massive bronze statue of Grgur Ninski (Bishop Gregory of Nin) by Ivan Mestrovic. Rubbing his big toe is said to bring good luck. The toe gleams gold from millions of touches.
Visit the Temple of Jupiter
A remarkably well-preserved Roman temple inside the palace, later converted into a Christian baptistery. The original barrel-vaulted ceiling and a headless sphinx from Egypt guard the entrance. Admission is included with the cathedral ticket. Small but historically significant.
Waterfront and City Highlights
Stroll the Riva waterfront promenade
Split's palm-lined seafront promenade is the social heart of the city, stretching along the southern wall of Diocletian's Palace. Locals gather here for morning coffee, evening walks, and people-watching at the many outdoor cafes. The views of the harbor and islands are especially beautiful at sunset.
Climb Marjan Hill
A forested peninsula west of the Old Town, reachable by a steep staircase from Varos neighborhood. The Vidilica cafe at the first viewpoint (178 steps) has excellent views over the city. Continue to the summit (174 meters) for panoramic views of the entire coast and islands. Allow 1-2 hours for the full loop trail.
Climb to the Vidilica viewpoint
Hike to the summit for panoramic views
Visit the 13th-century chapel of St. Nicholas
Visit the Mestrovic Gallery
A stunning villa-museum dedicated to Ivan Mestrovic, Croatia's most famous sculptor. The building itself, designed by Mestrovic as his summer home, sits on the slopes of Marjan Hill with sea views. The sculpture garden is especially impressive. Admission about EUR 8.
Explore the fish market (Peskarija)
Located just outside the eastern wall of the palace, this open-air market operates daily from early morning. Fishermen sell the morning's catch directly, and the surrounding restaurants serve it grilled or fried minutes later. Arrive before 9 AM for the freshest selection and the most authentic market atmosphere.
Beaches
Swim at Bacvice Beach
Split's most popular beach is a 5-minute walk east of the Old Town. A shallow sandy bay popular with families and locals playing picigin, a traditional ball game played in knee-deep water. Beach bars and cafes line the shore. Can get very crowded in July and August.
Find the hidden beaches on Marjan peninsula
Kastelet, Bene, and Jezinac are pebbly beaches tucked along the southern coast of Marjan Hill. Less crowded than Bacvice and surrounded by pine forest. The water is crystal clear. Bring water shoes for the rocky entry. Reachable by a 15-20 minute walk from the Old Town through the park.
Visit Kasjuni Beach
A picturesque pebble beach at the base of Marjan's cliffs, with a beach bar and stunning views of the open sea. The most photogenic beach near Split. Access is via a steep path from the road above (about 100 steps). Less windy than the city-side beaches and the pine trees provide natural shade.
Day Trips and Islands
Day trip to Hvar island
Regular catamarans from Split reach Hvar Town in about an hour (EUR 12-20 each way). The Venetian-era town is one of the most beautiful in the Adriatic, with a hilltop fortress, lavender-scented streets, and a famous nightlife scene. Visit the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views. Book return tickets in advance during peak season.
Take the catamaran to Hvar Town
Climb to the Spanish Fortress for views
Visit the Blue Cave on Bisevo island
A natural sea cave where sunlight enters through an underwater opening, creating an ethereal blue glow. Tours depart from Split, Vis, or Hvar and include the cave plus swimming stops. Full-day tours from Split cost EUR 80-120. The cave is accessible only by small boat and weather-dependent. Best light is between 11 AM and 1 PM.
Day trip to Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage town just 30 minutes west of Split by bus (number 37, EUR 3). The tiny island old town has a 13th-century cathedral, Venetian fortress, and atmospheric narrow streets. Much smaller and less crowded than Split, making it perfect for a half-day excursion. Water taxis also run from Split in summer.
Visit Krka National Park waterfalls
A stunning series of waterfalls about 90 minutes from Split by bus or car. The main Skradinski Buk waterfall has a boardwalk loop trail and a swimming area at its base (summer only). Admission about EUR 30 in peak season, EUR 8 in winter. Go early to avoid tour groups. The town of Skradin at the park entrance has excellent riverside restaurants.
Food and Local Life
Try Dalmatian peka (meat or seafood under a bell lid)
Peka is meat, octopus, or lamb slow-cooked with vegetables under an iron dome covered in hot coals. It takes 2-3 hours to prepare, so most restaurants require advance orders. Konoba Marjan and Konoba Matejuska are local favorites. One of the most authentic Croatian dishes you can try. Expect to pay EUR 15-25 per person.
Visit the Green Market (Pazar)
Split's daily open-air farmers market sits just outside the eastern Silver Gate of the palace. Local vendors sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, olive oil, lavender products, and dried figs. Busiest in the morning. The surrounding streets have bakeries selling burek (savory pastry) for about EUR 2.
Drink wine in the palace cellars
Several wine bars operate within the ancient walls of the palace. Zinfandel Food and Wine Bar (near the Peristyle) serves excellent Croatian wines by the glass (EUR 5-10). The Dalmatian coast is famous for plavac mali red wine and posip white. Ask for local recommendations rather than international labels.
Watch a Hajduk Split football match
Hajduk Split is Croatia's most passionate football club, with a fanatical fan base called the Torcida (the oldest organized fan group in Europe, founded 1950). Match day at the Poljud Stadium is an unforgettable atmosphere. Tickets are affordable at EUR 10-20. The season runs August through May.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need in Split?
Two to three days in Split itself, plus extra days for island day trips. The Old Town and Diocletian's Palace can be covered in a full day, but adding Marjan Hill, beaches, and the food scene fills a second and third day easily. Split also works well as a base for exploring Hvar, Trogir, and Krka National Park.
When is the best time to visit Split?
May through June and September through early October offer warm weather (22-28°C), swimmable seas, and fewer crowds than peak summer. July and August are the hottest (30°C+) and most crowded but perfect for beach and island activities. The Ultra Music Festival in July draws large crowds. Winter is mild (8-12°C) but quiet with limited ferry service to islands.
Is Split expensive?
Split offers good value compared to Western European coastal cities. A restaurant meal costs EUR 10-20, a beer EUR 3-4, and mid-range accommodation EUR 60-120 per night. Prices are highest in July-August. Eating at konobas (tavernas) rather than waterfront restaurants saves significantly. The Old Town can be explored entirely on foot, keeping transport costs minimal.
How do I get from Split to the islands?
Jadrolinija and Krilo operate regular ferries and catamarans from Split's harbor to Hvar (1-2 hours), Brac (50 minutes), Vis (2.5 hours), and Korcula (3.5 hours). Catamarans are faster but foot-passengers only. Car ferries take longer but allow vehicles. Book popular summer routes 1-2 days in advance. The ferry terminal is a 5-minute walk from the Old Town.