Why Split Should Be Your Next Mediterranean Destination
Split, Croatia's second-largest city, seamlessly blends ancient Roman heritage with modern Mediterranean charm. Nestled along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers an extraordinary mix of historical wonders, pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and authentic Croatian culture that attracts millions of visitors annually.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, Split delivers unforgettable experiences that cater to every type of traveler. From exploring the world's most complete Roman palace complex to island-hopping in crystal-clear Adriatic waters, here's your comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Split.
Explore Diocletian's Palace: The Heart of Split
Step Into Living History
Diocletian's Palace stands as one of the world's most remarkable historical sites and the crown jewel of Split's attractions. Built in the 4th century AD as a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian, this massive complex now houses shops, restaurants, apartments, and thousands of residents within its ancient walls.
Unlike typical museum sites, the palace remains a living, breathing part of the city where locals conduct daily life among 1,700-year-old architecture. The palace covers nearly half of Split's Old Town and represents one of the most complete Roman architectural complexes in existence.
Key Palace Highlights
The Peristyle: This central courtyard serves as the palace's main square, featuring impressive columns and serving as a popular gathering spot for tourists and street performers. The acoustics here are phenomenal, making it a favorite venue for concerts and cultural events.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius: Originally Diocletian's mausoleum, this cathedral now stands as one of the world's oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use. Climb the 200-foot bell tower for panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands.
Underground Cellars: These remarkably preserved basement chambers mirror the palace's upper layout and house exhibitions showcasing Roman life. The cellars also served as filming locations for HBO's Game of Thrones.
Discover Split's Stunning Beaches
Bacvice Beach: The Social Hub
Bacvice Beach, located just a 10-minute walk from Diocletian's Palace, represents Split's most famous and lively beach destination. This sandy beach offers shallow, warm waters perfect for families with children, while its numerous beach bars and restaurants create a vibrant social atmosphere.
The beach is famous for "picigin," a traditional Croatian ball game played in shallow water that's become synonymous with Split's beach culture. During summer months, Bacvice transforms into an outdoor party venue with beach clubs hosting international DJs.
Kasjuni Beach: Nature's Paradise
For those seeking a more natural beach experience, Kasjuni Beach on the Marjan Peninsula offers pristine pebbled shores surrounded by pine forests. This Blue Flag certified beach provides crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with several beach bars serving fresh seafood and refreshing cocktails.
Znjan Beach: Family-Friendly Excellence
Znjan Beach, Split's largest beach, stretches for over a mile and offers excellent facilities including playgrounds, sports courts, and numerous restaurants. The gradual entry into the sea makes it perfect for families, while water sports enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing, parasailing, and beach volleyball.
Take a Day Trip to Nearby Islands
Hvar Island: Lavender Fields and Luxury
Hvar Island, accessible by a 50-minute ferry ride from Split, ranks among Croatia's most glamorous destinations. Known for its lavender fields, medieval architecture, and upscale beach clubs, Hvar attracts celebrities and luxury travelers from around the world.
The island's main attractions include:
- Hvar Town: Featuring a stunning main square, fortress, and luxury yacht harbor
- Lavender Fields: Best visited during June and July when the purple blooms create Instagram-worthy landscapes
- Pakleni Islands: A chain of small islands perfect for swimming and sunbathing
Brac Island: Home to Croatia's Most Famous Beach
Brac Island houses Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), Croatia's most photographed beach. This unique triangular beach changes shape depending on wind and currents, creating a natural phenomenon that attracts photographers and beach lovers alike.
Beyond the famous beach, Brac offers:
- Bol Town: A charming fishing village with excellent restaurants
- Vidova Gora: The highest peak in the Adriatic islands, offering spectacular views
- Stone Quarries: Where the white stone for Diocletian's Palace was extracted
Experience Split's Culinary Scene
Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine
Split's culinary landscape reflects its coastal Mediterranean location with an emphasis on fresh seafood, olive oil, and local wines. The city's restaurants range from family-run konobas (taverns) serving traditional dishes to upscale establishments offering modern interpretations of Croatian cuisine.
Must-try dishes include:
- Peka: Slow-cooked meat or seafood prepared under a bell-shaped lid
- Black Risotto: Made with cuttlefish ink and fresh seafood
- Pašticada: Traditional Dalmatian beef stew served with gnocchi
- Fresh Fish: Grilled simply with olive oil, garlic, and herbs
Wine Tasting Experiences
The Split region produces exceptional wines, particularly from indigenous grape varieties like Plavac Mali and Crljenak Kaštelanski (Zinfandel). Many local wine bars and restaurants offer tasting experiences featuring wines from nearby islands and the Dalmatian hinterland.
Explore Marjan Hill: Split's Green Oasis
Nature and Recreation
Marjan Hill, often called the "lungs of Split," provides a natural escape from the city's bustling streets. This forested peninsula offers numerous hiking and biking trails, hidden beaches, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the city and surrounding islands.
The hill features several small chapels and hermitages dating from medieval times, creating peaceful spots for reflection and photography. The western side of Marjan houses some of Split's most beautiful beaches, including Kasjuni and Bene.
Outdoor Activities
- Hiking Trails: Well-marked paths suitable for all fitness levels
- Rock Climbing: Popular spots for both beginners and experienced climbers
- Cycling: Dedicated bike paths with rental stations throughout the area
- Beach Access: Multiple secluded coves and beaches
Immerse Yourself in Split's Nightlife
Historic Venues with Character
Split's nightlife scene uniquely combines ancient settings with modern entertainment. Many bars and clubs operate within Diocletian's Palace walls, creating an atmospheric drinking experience surrounded by Roman architecture.
Popular nightlife areas include:
- Palace Cellars: Underground bars in ancient Roman chambers
- Riva Promenade: Waterfront cafes and cocktail bars
- Bacvice Area: Beach clubs and late-night venues
- Firule Neighborhood: Local bars popular with residents
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Split hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, with summer bringing the most activity:
- Split Summer Festival: Classical music and theater performances in historic venues
- Ultra Europe: Major electronic music festival attracting international DJs
- Days of Diocletian: Historical reenactment celebrating Roman heritage
Shopping and Local Markets
Green Market (Pazar)
Split's bustling Green Market operates daily near Diocletian's Palace, offering fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade crafts. This authentic market experience allows visitors to interact with local vendors and sample regional products like olive oil, lavender products, and traditional Croatian brandy (rakija).
Unique Souvenirs and Local Crafts
The narrow streets within Diocletian's Palace house numerous boutiques selling everything from handmade jewelry to contemporary Croatian fashion. Look for locally-made products including:
- Lavender products from Hvar Island
- Olive oil from local producers
- Croatian ties (cravats) - a Croatian invention
- Handmade ceramics and traditional crafts
Day Trips from Split
Krka National Park: Waterfalls and Nature
Krka National Park, located about 90 minutes from Split, features spectacular waterfalls, walking trails, and swimming opportunities in designated areas. The park's most famous attraction, Skradinski Buk, consists of 17 cascading waterfalls creating natural pools perfect for photography.
Visitors can explore the park via boat tours, hiking trails, or guided excursions that often include visits to traditional mills and cultural sites within the park boundaries.
Trogir: UNESCO World Heritage Gem
The medieval town of Trogir, just 30 minutes from Split, represents one of Central Europe's best-preserved medieval complexes. This compact island town features narrow cobblestone streets, Romanesque churches, and the stunning Cathedral of St. Lawrence with its famous portal carved by Master Radovan.
Practical Travel Tips for Split
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season (July-August): Warmest weather and liveliest atmosphere, but also highest prices and crowds Shoulder Season (May-June, September-October): Ideal weather, fewer crowds, and better prices Off-Season (November-April): Cooler weather but lower costs and authentic local experiences
Getting Around Split
- Walking: The historic center is easily walkable
- Public Transport: Efficient bus system connecting all neighborhoods
- Bicycle Rentals: Growing network of bike paths and rental stations
- Taxi and Uber: Available but can be expensive during peak season
Accommodation Recommendations
Split offers diverse accommodation options from luxury hotels to budget hostels:
- Historic Center: Stay within or near Diocletian's Palace for ultimate convenience
- Bacvice Area: Close to beaches and nightlife
- Marjan Peninsula: Quieter option with nature access
- Private Apartments: Popular and often cost-effective choice
Cultural Experiences and Museums
Split City Museum
Housed within Diocletian's Palace, the Split City Museum showcases the city's rich history from Roman times to the present. The museum's collection includes archaeological artifacts, medieval art, and exhibits detailing Split's development as a major Adriatic port.
Gallery of Fine Arts
This gallery features works by Croatian artists from the 19th and 20th centuries, providing insight into the region's artistic heritage. The building itself represents an excellent example of early 20th-century architecture.
Archaeological Museum
One of Croatia's oldest museums houses extensive collections of Roman artifacts, early Christian art, and medieval items discovered in and around Split. The museum provides excellent context for understanding the region's ancient history.
Water Sports and Adventure Activities
Sea Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Split's calm waters and numerous islands make it ideal for water sports. Several companies offer guided kayaking tours that explore hidden coves, sea caves, and secluded beaches inaccessible by land.
Sailing and Boat Tours
The Dalmatian Coast offers some of the world's best sailing conditions. Options range from half-day island tours to week-long sailing adventures. Popular destinations include the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island and the Green Cave on Vis Island.
Scuba Diving
The clear Adriatic waters around Split provide excellent diving opportunities, including underwater archaeological sites, caves, and diverse marine life. Several dive centers offer courses for beginners and guided dives for experienced divers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days should I spend in Split?
Most visitors find 3-4 days sufficient to explore Split's main attractions, enjoy the beaches, and take one day trip to nearby islands. However, Split serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader Dalmatian region, so longer stays allow for more extensive exploration.
Is Split expensive to visit?
Split's costs vary significantly by season. Summer months (July-August) see the highest prices for accommodation and dining, while shoulder and off-seasons offer better value. Overall, Split remains more affordable than many Western European destinations while offering comparable experiences.
What's the best way to get to Split?
Split Airport connects to major European cities with both scheduled and charter flights. The city is also accessible by bus from other Croatian cities and neighboring countries, ferry from Italian ports, and increasingly popular cruise ship visits.
Can I use Split as a base for island hopping?
Absolutely! Split serves as the main ferry hub for central Dalmatian islands including Hvar, Brac, Vis, and Solta. Regular ferry services make day trips easily manageable, while longer stays on islands are also convenient.
Is Split suitable for families with children?
Split offers excellent family-friendly amenities including safe beaches, parks, family restaurants, and attractions that appeal to children. The compact historic center makes walking with children manageable, and many activities cater to families.
Conclusion: Your Split Adventure Awaits
Split masterfully combines ancient history, natural beauty, Mediterranean culture, and modern amenities to create one of Europe's most compelling destinations. Whether you're drawn by the remarkable Roman architecture of Diocletian's Palace, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, the vibrant local culture, or the proximity to stunning islands, Split delivers experiences that create lasting memories.
The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, while its strategic location provides access to some of Croatia's most beautiful islands and national parks. From budget-conscious travelers to luxury seekers, Split accommodates all preferences while maintaining its authentic Croatian character.
Plan your visit during the shoulder seasons for the best balance of weather, activities, and value, but know that Split's Mediterranean climate and year-round cultural offerings make it an attractive destination regardless of when you visit. Start planning your Split adventure today and discover why this ancient city continues to captivate travelers from around the world.