Split
THE QUICK VERDICT
Choose Split if you want Diocletian's Palace + Adriatic — Riva promenade, Marjan hill, ferries to Hvar and Brač, Krka waterfalls, and the jumping-off point for Dalmatian-coast island hopping.
- Best for
- sleeping inside Diocletian's Palace walls, Marjan hill swims, Hvar/Brac ferries, Krka waterfall hop
- Best months
- May–Jun · Sep–Oct
- Budget anchor
- $140/day mid-range
- Worth a look
- Dalmatian island gateway with cheaper apartments than Dubrovnik and direct flights from London
Croatia's second-largest city is built in and around the ruins of Roman Emperor Diocletian's Palace. A living, breathing ancient monument where locals go about daily life amid 1,700-year-old walls. Gateway to Hvar, Brač, and the Dalmatian Islands.
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Tours & Experiences
Bookable tours, activities, and day trips in Split
Where to Stay
Compare hotels and rentals in Split
📍 Points of Interest
At a Glance
- Pop.
- 180K
- Timezone
- Zagreb
- Dial
- +385
- Emergency
- 112
Split's historic center is literally built inside the ruins of the Roman Emperor Diocletian's retirement palace, completed around 305 AD — it's the best-preserved Roman palace in the world
About 3,000 people still live within the palace walls, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited structures on Earth
Game of Thrones fans will recognize Split and nearby Klis Fortress as filming locations for Meereen and other scenes
The Riva, Split's waterfront promenade, was redesigned in 2007 with gleaming white stone and palm trees — the best people-watching spot in Dalmatia
Split is the main ferry hub for Croatia's islands — over 20 islands are accessible by boat from the city, including Hvar, Brac, and Vis
Peka (meat or seafood slow-cooked under an iron bell covered in embers) is the most beloved traditional Dalmatian dish — always order it a day ahead at restaurants
Top Sights
Diocletian's Palace
🗼The remarkably preserved 4th-century Roman palace that forms Split's historic core. The Peristyle (central courtyard), underground cellars, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (built inside Diocletian's mausoleum) are the highlights. It's not a museum — it's a living city.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
📌Originally Diocletian's mausoleum, converted into a cathedral in the 7th century — making it one of the oldest cathedral buildings in the world still in use. Climb the bell tower for stunning views over the palace and harbor.
Marjan Hill
🌿A forested peninsula rising above the western end of the city. Hike to the top (178m) for panoramic views of Split, the islands, and the Dinaric Alps. Also home to tiny medieval chapels, a zoo, and secluded swimming coves.
Riva Promenade
🗼Split's gorgeous palm-lined waterfront promenade stretching along the southern wall of the palace. The best place for a morning coffee, evening stroll, or people-watching. Lined with cafes and facing the harbor.
Bacvice Beach
🌿Split's most popular city beach, just a 10-minute walk from the palace. A shallow, sandy bay perfect for swimming and the traditional Dalmatian game of picigin (keeping a ball in the air in shallow water).
Green Market (Pazar)
🏪An open-air fruit and vegetable market just outside the eastern wall of the palace. Fresh figs, cherries, lavender products, olive oil, and local cheese. Best visited in the morning.
Klis Fortress
🗼A dramatic medieval fortress perched on a cliff above Split, used as a Game of Thrones filming location (Meereen). A 30-minute bus ride from the city with sweeping views of the coast.
Off the Beaten Path
Marjan Hill Forest Park
A forested peninsula west of the old town with hiking trails, hidden swimming coves, a small zoo, and panoramic viewpoints over the city and islands.
Locals come here to escape the summer crowds. The south-facing beaches like Kasjuni are far less packed than Bacvice and the water is clearer.
Konoba Marjan
A family-run tavern on the slopes of Marjan Hill serving traditional Dalmatian dishes like pasticada (slow-cooked beef) and grilled fish at reasonable prices.
While tourists pack the Riva waterfront restaurants paying premium prices, locals eat here with better food and a peaceful terrace with sea views.
Pazar (Green Market)
The daily open-air market just east of Diocletian's Palace where locals buy seasonal produce, olive oil, honey, cheese, lavender sachets, and homemade rakija.
Arrive early for the best selection. The market vendors are friendly and you can sample cheese and olive oil before buying.
Bacvice Beach Picigin
Watch or join locals playing picigin, a traditional ball game played in the shallow water at Bacvice beach, invented in Split and beloved by all ages.
Picigin is unique to Split and playing in the warm shallows is a rite of passage. The evening matches with the sunset are especially atmospheric.
Froggyland
A quirky museum inside the palace walls displaying over 500 taxidermied frogs arranged in humorous human-like scenes from the early 20th century.
One of the strangest and most unexpectedly delightful small museums in Europe. Takes 20 minutes and is a perfect break from Roman ruins.
Climate & Best Time to Go
Split has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. It enjoys over 2,600 hours of sunshine per year — one of the sunniest cities in Europe.
Spring
April - May54-72°F
12-22°C
Lovely and increasingly warm. Perfect for sightseeing without summer crowds. The sea is still cool for swimming but the weather is ideal for hiking Marjan Hill.
Summer
June - August72-91°F
22-33°C
Hot, sunny, and dry. Peak season with the highest prices and biggest crowds. Perfect for beach days and island hopping. July-August can be scorching.
Autumn
September - October59-79°F
15-26°C
September is warm and arguably the best month — warm sea, thinner crowds, lower prices. October is pleasant but cooler with occasional rain.
Winter
November - March41-55°F
5-13°C
Mild but rainy. Many tourist businesses close. The old town is atmospheric and nearly empty. The bura wind can bring sudden cold spells.
Best Time to Visit
May through June and September through mid-October offer warm weather, swimmable seas, and manageable crowds. July and August are peak season with intense heat and heavy tourist traffic in the old town.
Spring (April - May)
Crowds: Low to moderateWarming temperatures and blooming flora along the coast. May is warm enough for swimming at sheltered beaches. Ferry schedules to the islands ramp up.
Pros
- + Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing
- + Uncrowded old town
- + Lower accommodation prices
- + Ferry season begins to the islands
Cons
- − Sea temperature still cool in April
- − Some island restaurants not yet open
- − Occasional rainy days
- − Limited ferry schedules early in spring
Summer (June - August)
Crowds: Very high — peak seasonHot and sunny with temperatures above 30 degrees and warm sea water. The old town is packed with cruise ship visitors and the Riva buzzes until late.
Pros
- + Guaranteed sunshine
- + Warm sea for swimming
- + Full ferry schedules to all islands
- + Outdoor festivals and nightlife
- + Ultra Europe festival
Cons
- − Extremely crowded old town
- − Accommodation prices at their peak
- − Temperatures above 35 degrees on some days
- − Cruise ship crowds in the palace
Autumn (September - October)
Crowds: Moderate in September, low by late OctoberSeptember is arguably the best month — warm seas, smaller crowds, and golden light. October remains pleasant but cools noticeably by month's end.
Pros
- + Warm sea water into October
- + Fewer tourists than summer
- + Wine harvest season
- + Lower prices than peak season
- + Beautiful golden light
Cons
- − Rain increases from mid-October
- − Some island services start closing
- − Shorter days
- − Sea can get rough for ferry crossings
Winter (November - March)
Crowds: Very lowMild but rainy with temperatures around 8-15 degrees. The old town is quiet and many island ferries run reduced schedules. A local, authentic experience.
Pros
- + Almost no tourists
- + Lowest accommodation prices
- + Mild temperatures compared to northern Europe
- + Authentic local atmosphere
Cons
- − Frequent rain
- − Many restaurants and island services closed
- − Limited ferry connections
- − Sea too cold for swimming
- − Shorter days
🎉 Festivals & Events
Ultra Europe
JulyA major electronic dance music festival drawing tens of thousands to venues in and around Split, including the Poljud Stadium and beach afterparties.
Split Summer Festival
July-AugustA long-running arts festival with opera, theater, dance, and music performances in atmospheric venues including the Peristyle of Diocletian's Palace.
Feast of St. Domnius
MaySplit's patron saint festival on May 7 with processions, fireworks, concerts, and celebrations around the cathedral.
Days of Diocletian
AugustA historical reenactment festival bringing Roman-era costumes, gladiator fights, and toga parties to the palace streets.
Safety Breakdown
Very Safe
out of 100
Split is one of the safest cities on the Mediterranean for tourists. Violent crime is extremely rare. Petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas during summer, but overall it is very safe.
Things to Know
- •Watch for pickpockets in crowded summer areas around the palace and Riva
- •Be cautious on the old town's slippery marble streets, especially after rain
- •Sea urchins are common on rocky beaches — bring water shoes for non-sandy spots
- •The bura wind can be very strong — secure belongings on the waterfront
- •Book accommodation well in advance for July-August — Split fills up
- •Tap water is safe and high-quality throughout Croatia
Emergency Numbers
European Emergency
112
Police
192
Ambulance
194
Fire
193
Costs & Currency
Where the money goes
USD per dayBackpacker = hostel dorm + street food + public transit. Mid-range = 3-star hotel + neighbourhood restaurants + transit cards. Luxury = 4/5-star + fine dining + taxis. How we calibrate these numbers →
Quick cost estimate
Customize per category →Estimates based on regional averages. Flight prices vary by season and airline.
budget
$45-70
Hostel dorm, bakery lunches, walking, free palace exterior and beaches
mid-range
$110-170
Apartment or hotel, restaurant meals, island ferry day trip, museum entries
luxury
$250-400
Palace-view hotel, fine dining, private boat tour, wine tasting
Typical Costs
| Item | Local | USD |
|---|---|---|
| FoodBurek (pastry) from a bakery | €2-3.50 | $2.20-3.85 |
| FoodPizza or pasta at a konoba | €10-15 | $11-16.50 |
| FoodSeafood dinner for two | €50-80 | $55-88 |
| FoodLocal beer (0.5L) | €3-5 | $3.30-5.50 |
| TransportBus single ride | €1.50-2.50 | $1.65-2.75 |
| TransportCatamaran to Hvar | €15-20 one way | $16.50-22 |
| AccommodationHostel dorm bed | €18-35 | $19.80-38.50 |
| AccommodationApartment in old town | €80-150 | $88-165 |
| AttractionDiocletian's Palace cellars | €8 | $8.80 |
💡 Money-Saving Tips
- •Exploring the Diocletian's Palace streets and Peristyle is free — you only pay for the cellars and cathedral
- •Bacvice Beach and the Marjan Hill trails are free and among Split's best experiences
- •Eat at bakeries for cheap burek, pizza slices, and pastries
- •The Green Market has affordable fresh fruit, cheese, and snacks
- •Book ferries in advance during summer — prices are lower and you guarantee a spot
- •Croatia adopted the euro in 2023 — no currency exchange fees for eurozone travelers
- •Rent an apartment with a kitchen for longer stays to save on eating out
Euro
Code: EUR
1 EUR is approximately 1.09 USD (as of early 2026). Croatia adopted the euro on January 1, 2023, making it simple for eurozone travelers. ATMs are widely available. Some older shops may still display prices in both euros and kuna during the transition period.
Payment Methods
Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted at restaurants, hotels, and shops. Smaller konobas, market vendors, and some ferry ticket offices may prefer cash. Contactless payment is increasingly common. American Express is less widely accepted.
Tipping Guide
Tipping 10% is appreciated for good service. In casual konobas, rounding up is sufficient. Service charge is not usually included.
Round up to the nearest euro or leave small change. Not expected at self-service counters.
Round up to the nearest euro. No formal tipping expectation.
Porters receive one to two euros per bag. Housekeeping tips of one to two euros per day are appreciated but not expected.
Three to five euros per person for group tours. Free walking tour guides rely on tips — five to ten euros per person is standard.
How to Get There
✈️ Airports
Split Airport (Kastela)(SPU)
25 km westAirport bus to Riva (€5, 30 min). Taxi ~€35-40, 25 min. Bus 37 from nearby Trogir also works.
✈️ Search flights to SPU🚆 Rail Stations
Split Railway Station
Adjacent to the old town and portTrains to Zagreb (6 hrs, scenic route through the mountains). Limited domestic rail network. The station is next to the bus station and ferry port — very convenient.
🚌 Bus Terminals
Split Bus Station
Next to the port and train station. Buses to Dubrovnik (4-5 hrs), Zagreb (5-6 hrs), Mostar in Bosnia (4 hrs), and local destinations including Trogir (30 min).
Getting Around
Split is a compact city that is best explored on foot. Buses serve the wider area, and ferries connect to the islands. No metro or tram system.
Walking
FreeThe best way to explore Split. The old town is car-free and tiny. The Riva, Bacvice Beach, and Marjan Hill are all within walking distance of the palace.
Best for: Everything within the city center
Promet City Buses
€1.50-2.50 singleLocal buses connect the center to neighborhoods, the airport bus station, and nearby Trogir (bus 37). Buy tickets from the driver or at kiosks.
Best for: Getting to the bus station, Klis Fortress, and Trogir
Jadrolinija & Catamaran Ferries
€10-30 ($11-33 USD) depending on destinationFerries from Split's port to Hvar, Brac, Vis, Korcula, and other islands. Jadrolinija runs the car ferries; Krilo runs fast catamarans. Book ahead in summer.
Best for: Island hopping
Taxis & Bolt
€5-15 for most city tripsMetered taxis and the Bolt ride-hailing app. Useful for the airport and reaching Klis Fortress. Fairly affordable by European standards.
Best for: Airport transfers and uphill trips
Walkability
Excellent — Split is one of the most walkable cities in Croatia. The old town, Riva, beaches, and Marjan Hill are all interconnected on foot. Only the bus station and airport require transport.
Travel Connections
Dubrovnik
The "Pearl of the Adriatic" with magnificent medieval walls, a photogenic old town, and Game of Thrones fame. The coastal bus ride is scenic.
Hvar
A glamorous island with lavender fields, medieval Hvar Town, hidden coves, and Croatia's best nightlife. The most visited Croatian island.
Trogir
A tiny UNESCO-listed island town with a stunning Romanesque cathedral and atmospheric stone streets. An easy half-day trip from Split.
Brac (Zlatni Rat)
Home to Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), Croatia's most famous beach — a dramatic white pebble spit that changes shape with the wind and currents.
Entry Requirements
Croatia joined the Schengen Area on January 1, 2023. Visitors from many countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The same Schengen rules that apply to other EU countries now apply to Croatia.
Entry Requirements by Nationality
| Nationality | Visa Required | Max Stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond planned departure. ETIAS authorization may be required — check before travel. |
| UK Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Post-Brexit, UK nationals follow the 90/180-day Schengen rule. No visa needed for tourism. |
| Canadian Citizens | Visa-free | 90 days | Same Schengen conditions. Passport validity of at least 3 months beyond departure required. |
| EU/EEA Citizens | Visa-free | Unlimited | Freedom of movement applies. National ID card is sufficient for entry. Can live and work without a visa. |
| Indian Citizens | Yes | Up to 90 days | Schengen visa required. Apply at the Croatian embassy or through VFS Global. Requires travel insurance, accommodation proof, and financial means. |
Visa-Free Entry
Tips
- •Croatia is now part of the Schengen Area — time spent in other Schengen countries counts toward your 90-day limit
- •Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen area
- •Keep proof of accommodation, return flights, and travel insurance accessible at the border
- •If arriving by ferry from Italy, the same Schengen entry rules apply
- •EU/EEA citizens need only a national ID card, not a passport
Shopping
Split's shopping scene blends Dalmatian artisan traditions with modern Croatian design. Lavender products, olive oil, and local wines are the standout buys. The old town has souvenir shops, while Marmontova street offers mainstream retail.
Diocletian's Palace Shops
souvenir & artisanSmall shops and workshops within the palace walls selling handmade jewelry, lavender products, Croatian ties (cravats), and local art. Quality varies so shop around.
Known for: Lavender sachets, Croatian cravats, handmade jewelry, Dalmatian art
Marmontova Street
mainstream retailThe main pedestrian shopping street running from the Riva to the market with a mix of international brands and Croatian retailers.
Known for: Fashion brands, shoes, Croatian designers, cafes
Green Market (Pazar)
fresh marketThe daily market east of the palace is the place for local olive oil, cheese, dried figs, honey, lavender, and seasonal produce directly from Dalmatian farms.
Known for: Olive oil, local cheese, dried figs, lavender, seasonal produce
Mall of Split & City Center One
shopping mallModern malls east of the center with international brands, cinema, and air conditioning — welcome relief on hot summer days.
Known for: International brands, electronics, entertainment, dining
🎁 Unique Souvenirs to Look For
- •Lavender products from Hvar — sachets, oil, soap, and honey available everywhere in Split
- •Croatian necktie (cravat) — the necktie was invented in Croatia and makes a meaningful gift
- •Dalmatian olive oil from small producers, often available for tasting at the market
- •Maraschino cherry liqueur (Maraska) from the nearby Zadar region
- •Pag cheese — a hard, sharp sheep's cheese from Pag island
- •Handmade Dalmatian lace from island artisans
- •Local wines — Plavac Mali red and Posip white from Dalmatian vineyards
Language & Phrases
Croatian uses the Latin alphabet with some additional characters (c, c, z, s, d). Split has a distinctive Dalmatian dialect mixing Croatian with Italian-influenced words. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially by younger people.
| English | Translation | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Hi | Bok | bohk |
| Good morning | Dobro jutro | DOH-broh YOO-troh |
| Thank you | Hvala | HVAH-lah |
| Please / You're welcome | Molim | MOH-leem |
| Excuse me | Oprostite | oh-PROH-stee-teh |
| Yes / No | Da / Ne | dah / neh |
| How much? | Koliko kosta? | KOH-lee-koh KOSH-tah? |
| Where is...? | Gdje je...? | g-DYEH yeh...? |
| The check, please | Racun, molim | RAH-choon, MOH-leem |
| I don't understand | Ne razumijem | neh rah-ZOO-mee-yem |
| Do you speak English? | Govorite li engleski? | goh-VOH-ree-teh lee en-GLES-kee? |
| Cheers! | Zivjeli! | ZHEE-vyeh-lee! |
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