When planning your trip to Split, Croatia, you'll find a fascinating mix of ancient history and contemporary allure. Begin with Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that reveals the grandeur of Roman architecture within modern-day vibrance. Wander through its narrow streets and investigate the underground cellars that tell tales of a bygone era. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. Domnius, where history and spirituality converge in one of the globe's oldest Catholic cathedrals. Ready for more? The Riva Promenade awaits, but there's much more to discover beyond its scenic views.
Key Takeaways
- Explore Diocletian's Palace, a 4th-century Roman marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius with its iconic bell tower and blend of architectural styles.
- Stroll along the vibrant Riva Promenade for scenic views and local dining options.
- Wander through Split Old Town's winding streets and historical landmarks.
- Enjoy panoramic vistas and outdoor activities at Marjan Hill.
Diocletian's Palace
Diocletian's Palace, a 4th-century Roman marvel, offers you a fascinating glimpse into ancient history.
As the retirement residence of Emperor Diocletian, this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture worldwide. Covering over 30,000 square meters, the palace boasts impressive structures like the Peristyle and the Vestibule.
You can uncover the underground cellars, wander through the narrow streets, and discern the blend of medieval and Renaissance elements within its walls.
Furthermore, Diocletian's Palace has been a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones, adding a modern cultural layer to its historical significance.
Your visit here will be both educational and visually enthralling.
Cathedral of St. Domnius
The Cathedral of St. Domnius, also known as the Cathedral of St. Duje, stands as the oldest Catholic cathedral in the globe still in use in its original structure.
Built in the 4th century AD, it originally served as the Mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
The cathedral's bell tower, which rises 57 meters, provides stunning panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic coastline.
Inside, you'll find a blend of Roman, Gothic, and Baroque architectural styles.
Don't miss the cathedral's treasury, where a collection of religious artifacts and relics, including the head of St. Domnius, is displayed.
This historic site offers a unique glimpse into Split's rich cultural and religious heritage.
Riva Promenade
When you visit Split, a stroll along the Riva Promenade is a must.
You'll enjoy the scenic waterfront walk lined with palm trees, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Along the way, you'll find vibrant dining options with numerous cafes and restaurants to choose from.
Scenic Waterfront Walk
Why not start your Split adventure with a stroll along the iconic Riva Promenade, where the Adriatic coastline meets a vibrant social hub?
This scenic waterfront walk stretches along the beautiful coastline, offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, the Marjan peninsula, and the historic Diocletian's Palace.
The Riva Promenade isn't just about the views; it's also a bustling hub where locals and tourists gather, creating a lively atmosphere. As you walk, you'll encounter street performers adding a touch of local culture.
The promenade serves as the social heart of Split, making it a must-do activity for anyone visiting. Experience the blend of natural beauty and local life firsthand on the Riva.
Vibrant Dining Options
On the Riva Promenade, you'll find a vibrant array of cafes, bars, and restaurants that offer a lively dining atmosphere with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
Seafood lovers can savor local catches like squid, octopus, and sea bream, all prepared to highlight Split's coastal flavors. Traditional Dalmatian dishes such as black risotto and peka are must-tries.
The Riva is also perfect for people-watching, where you can enjoy coffee or cocktails while observing the bustling crowd.
For those seeking variety, international cuisine from Italian to Asian fusion is readily available. Whether you're after a casual café experience or a fine dining setting, the Riva Promenade caters to all tastes and preferences.
Split Old Town
When you wander Split Old Town, you'll find yourself at the heart of history with Diocletian's Palace as its centerpiece.
This ancient Roman palace is filled with highlights like the Peristyle, a stunning square that boasts impressive Roman architecture.
As you meander through the narrow, winding streets, you'll encounter historic sites and vibrant cultural spots that showcase Split's rich heritage.
Diocletian's Palace Highlights
Located in the heart of Split's Old Town, Diocletian's Palace offers a stunning glimpse into ancient Roman architecture and history.
The Peristyle, the palace's central square, is a must-see with its impressive Roman columns and vibrant atmosphere. You can investigate the remarkably well-preserved cellars, famously used as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Don't miss the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use, featuring a striking Roman-era bell tower. The Vestibule, a domed circular room, is one of the palace's most iconic spots, perfect for photographs.
Each corner of Diocletian's Palace reveals another layer of history, making it an essential part of your visit to Split.
Historic Sites Exploration
Wandering Split's Old Town, you'll encounter a substantial array of historic sites that narrate the rich tapestry of its past. At the heart of the Old Town lies Diocletian's Palace, a 4th-century Roman structure and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby, the Cathedral of St. Domnius stands as the second oldest Catholic cathedral globally, featuring impressive Roman architectural elements. Climb its 65-meter-high bell tower for panoramic views of Split. Below the palace, investigate the Cellars of Diocletian's Palace, known for their Game of Thrones filming locations. Finally, stroll along the Riva Waterfront, a bustling promenade ideal for soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
| Site | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Diocletian's Palace | 4th-century Roman palace, UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Cathedral of St. Domnius | Second oldest Catholic cathedral, Roman architecture |
| Bell Tower | 65-meter-high, panoramic views of Split |
| Cellars of Diocletian's Palace | Well-preserved, Game of Thrones filming location |
| Riva Waterfront | Bustling promenade, hub for festivities and celebrations |
Marjan Hill
Marjan Hill offers you breathtaking panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea, making it a must-visit for any traveler. This densely forested peninsula is perfect for hiking and cycling aficionados.
As you traverse the area, you'll find hidden caves, monasteries, and chapels scattered across the slopes. Don't miss the highest point, the Cross of St. George, which provides stunning vistas of Split's historic Old Town and the nearby islands.
Known as Split's 'green lung,' Marjan Hill offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Hiking and biking trails: Numerous paths for different skill levels.
Historic spots: Hidden caves, monasteries, and chapels.
Spectacular views: Panoramic scenes from the Cross of St. George.
Nature: Dense forests providing a tranquil environment.
Accessibility: Short distance from the city center.
Local Beaches
When you visit Split, you'll find a range of local beaches that cater to different tastes and activities.
Bacvice Beach is perfect for those seeking a lively atmosphere and proximity to the Old Town.
Kasjuni Beach offers a more secluded and scenic experience.
Whether you're into water sports at Bene Beach or prefer the quiet beauty of Kastelet Beach, there's something for everyone.
Popular Beach Destinations
Split's coastline boasts a variety of stunning beaches, each offering a unique experience for visitors. Bacvice Beach is the most popular, with its sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere. Firule Beach is known for its picturesque pebble shoreline and is ideal for a quieter spot.
Kaštelet Beach on the Marjan peninsula is a more secluded experience, surrounded by pine trees and cliffs. Bene Beach is great for families, offering amenities like restaurants and bars.
- Bacvice Beach: Lively and sandy, perfect for socializing.
- Firule Beach: Quiet and ideal for swimming.
- Kaštelet Beach: Secluded, surrounded by nature.
- Bene Beach: Family-friendly with various amenities.
- Kaštelet Beach: Scenic and peaceful, a hidden gem.
Water Sports Activities
After enjoying the beautiful beaches, you can amp up the excitement with a variety of water sports activities available at Split's local beaches. Bacvice Beach, just steps from Split's Old Town, offers a lively atmosphere perfect for trying out jet skiing or paddleboarding. Meanwhile, Bene Beach provides facilities for jet skis, banana boats, and parasailing, making it a hit with families. For a more serene experience, you can swim and sunbathe at Kasjuni Beach, surrounded by cliffs and pine trees. Kastelet Beach, located on the Marjan peninsula, is ideal for a relaxing swim in a secluded setting.
| Beach | Water Sports Activities |
|---|---|
| Bacvice Beach | Jet skiing, paddleboarding |
| Bene Beach | Jet skis, banana boats, parasailing |
| Kasjuni Beach | Swimming, sunbathing |
| Kastelet Beach | Swimming |
Beachside Dining Options
Dine right on the sand at Bacvice Beach, where lively bars and restaurants offer fresh seafood and local cuisine.
For a more tranquil setting, head to Kasuni Beach, surrounded by pine trees, providing seaside cafes and restaurants.
Families will love Bene Beach, with its variety of water sports facilities and casual dining choices.
If you're looking for a quieter spot, Firule Beach features low-key restaurants and bars perfect for a relaxing meal.
For an exclusive experience, visit Kasjuni Beach, a secluded cove accessible only by boat, where you can enjoy an intimate seaside restaurant.
Krka National Park
Krka National Park, just 100 kilometers from Split, offers visitors a breathtaking experience with its turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant wildlife.
One of the park's highlights is Skradinski Buk, a stunning series of travertine waterfalls that you simply can't miss. While there, you'll have the chance to swim in crystal-clear pools, hike along scenic trails, and investigate historical landmarks like old watermills and traditional villages.
You can get to Krka National Park by guided tour or private transportation, both of which provide insights into the region's natural and cultural heritage.
Home to over 200 bird species and rare plants, the park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts seeking to immerse themselves in its beauty.
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO global Heritage Site, captivates visitors with its interconnected turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls. Located about 2.5 hours from Split, this natural wonder features 16 terraced lakes formed by travertine deposits.
You can immerse yourself in the park's extensive wooden walkways and trails, which offer access to breathtaking viewpoints.
Utilize boats and electric trains for easy navigation.
Home to over 1,200 plant species.
Spot diverse wildlife, including bears, wolves, and lynx.
Ideal for both guided tours and self-guided adventures.
A popular day trip destination from Split.
Hvar Island
Uncover the allure of Hvar Island, just an hour away from Split by catamaran, known for its historic old town, stunning lavender fields, and scenic harbor.
Start your visit by investigating the Spanish Fortress, which offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea. Wander through the old town's narrow streets and unveil charming shops and cafes.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the island's vineyards and olive groves, where you can enjoy wine and olive oil tastings. Hvar is one of the sunniest places in Europe, making it perfect for beach-goers.
Relax on its beautiful beaches or stroll along the picturesque harbor, taking in the serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
Brač Island
Brać Island, the largest of the central Dalmatian islands, offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history just off the coast of Split. Famous for its white limestone used in iconic structures like the White House, Brać is a must-visit.
One of its highlights is Zlatni Rat, a unique V-shaped golden sand beach known for its changing shape owing to wind and waves. The charming coastal town of Bol, with its vibrant seafront promenade, is renowned for wine and olive oil production.
You can easily reach Brać by ferry from Split, making it perfect for a day trip or a longer stay.
- White limestone quarries
- Zlatni Rat beach
- Bol town
- Wine and olive oil
- Easy ferry access
