Split

What are the most recommended things to do in Split?

  • Explore Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the city center.
  • Walk along the Riva Promenade and enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea.
  • Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and climb its bell tower for panoramic views.
  • Stroll through the historic Old Town and its narrow streets.
  • Relax at Bacvice Beach or take a boat trip to nearby islands.
  • Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Ethnographic Museum.
  • Enjoy local cuisine at markets like Pazar and traditional restaurants.
  • Take a ferry to explore nearby islands like Hvar, Brac, or Vis.

Introducing Split

Split, a port city in southern Croatia, lies on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea. It is the largest seaport in Dalmatia and a renowned historical city, resort, and tourist destination. Split's architecture developed around the Roman Emperor Diocletian's summer palace. In 1979, Diocletian's Palace, the heart of Split's old town, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Split boasts numerous museums and art galleries, housing a wealth of valuable collections.

Climate and best time to travel

Mediterranean climate, best from April to September.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Diocletian's Palace

Diocletian's Palace, a Roman Imperial palace built between 295 and 305 AD, covers nearly 4 hectares. Diocletian resided here after his abdication. Located in Split, Croatia, it is a magnificent seaside fortress and a luxurious country villa. Rectangular in plan, the palace stretches 215 meters from north to south, with walls 2.1 meters thick. Facing the Adriatic Sea, it rises 22 meters in the south and 18 meters in the north. It features 16 towers and 4 gates.


Split Old Town

Split, a historic city in Croatia and its second largest, is a relatively small old town. In the center, the most famous building is Diocletian's Palace, and in the square, two men dressed as Roman soldiers stand. The old town is quite small, with winding alleyways and a variety of souvenir and fashion shops. At night, Split is bustling with tourists, performances, and restaurants, creating a bustling atmosphere.


Church of St. Dominic

The mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, which evolved from a mausoleum into a Christian church, with a bell tower added in the Middle Ages.


Statue of Gregorius

Outside the north gate of Diocletian's Palace, it is very famous in Croatia. Legend has it that touching the left toe will bring good luck.


Most Popular FAQs for Split

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Split is a historic city on the Dalmatian coast, known for Diocletian’s Palace, built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century. The city blends Roman, medieval, and modern influences and serves as a cultural and economic hub in Croatia.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia. Accessible via Split Airport (by bus or taxi), ferry connections along the Adriatic, trains, and buses. Walking is ideal within the Old Town.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions are open 9:00–19:00. Best times to visit are May–June or September–October for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees for Diocletian’s Palace attractions range from 5–15 EUR. Tickets can be bought online for popular sites or at the entrance.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For Diocletian’s Palace attractions and guided tours, booking 1 week in advance is recommended during peak season; other sites can often be visited without advance booking.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

1–2 full days to cover the main historic sites, promenades, and nearby islands.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Diocletian’s Palace and Peristyle Square
  • Cathedral of Saint Domnius
  • Old Town streets and squares
  • Riva Promenade
  • Bacvice Beach

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours and audio guides are available in English, Italian, German, and Croatian, especially for Diocletian’s Palace and museum visits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Bell tower of Saint Domnius Cathedral
  • Riva Promenade at sunset
  • Peristyle Square in Diocletian’s Palace
  • Viewpoints from Marjan Hill

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Diocletian’s Palace, visit Cathedral of Saint Domnius, explore Old Town streets, stroll along the Riva Promenade, and end at Bacvice Beach or take a ferry trip.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Evening city walks, night-time photography, and occasional cultural events are available, especially during summer festivals.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Peak crowds occur in July–August. Least crowded times are May, June, and September, and weekdays rather than weekends.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Public toilets, cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops, and benches are available throughout the city and in the Old Town.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most areas are accessible for children and elderly, though some parts of Diocletian’s Palace and Old Town streets have uneven surfaces that may be challenging for wheelchairs.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, though some small vendors or markets may prefer cash.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Restaurants and cafes are plentiful in the Old Town and along the Riva Promenade, serving seafood, Mediterranean, and local Dalmatian cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are increasingly available; halal options are limited and may require checking specific restaurants.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Hotels, boutique guesthouses, and hostels are concentrated near Diocletian’s Palace and the city center.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Marjan Hill and its viewpoints
  • Island trips to Hvar, Brac, or Vis
  • Trogir, a historic town 30 minutes away by car

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs include local olive oil, lavender products, Dalmatian jewelry, handcrafted ceramics, and traditional Croatian clothing items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Ferries to nearby islands, bus or train connections to Dubrovnik, Zadar, or Zagreb, and Split Airport for domestic and international flights.

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