Envision wandering through an ancient city where Roman ruins meet vibrant modern life. Split, Croatia, offers just that with its rich history encapsulated in Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, soak up the Mediterranean sun, and savor local culinary delights. But that's just the beginning. There's so much more to discover, from pristine beaches to nearby natural wonders like Krka National Park. Ready to plan your adventure? Let's start by investigating what makes Split a compelling travel destination.
Key Takeaways
- Split is located on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea in Croatia.
- It features Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the best-preserved Roman palace from late antiquity.
- Visitors can enjoy a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers ideal for beach activities.
- The city offers a range of accommodations from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly stays and private rentals.
- Top attractions include Marjan Hill, the Historic Old Town, and the Cathedral of St. Domnius.
The History of Split
Split's history spans over 23 centuries, beginning with the Roman imperial palace of Emperor Diocletian. This unique origin makes Split the only city in the globe developed from a Roman palace.
Diocletian's Palace, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the best-preserved Roman palace from late antiquity. As you walk through its ancient corridors, you'll be stepping through centuries of history.
The Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, stands as one of the oldest cathedrals globally.
To delve deeper into this rich past, the Best of Split Walking Tour offers detailed insights into the city's transformation from a Roman palace to a bustling urban center. This tour provides an engaging way to investigate Split's historical significance.
Weather in Split
You'll enjoy a typical Mediterranean climate in Split, with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Summer temperatures average around 25°C, making it perfect for beach activities. The Adriatic Sea can reach up to 26°C, ideal for swimming.
Winters are mild, averaging around 8°C, but expect some rain. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall, when the weather is pleasant and more comfortable for sightseeing.
Pack accordingly: Light clothes for summer, layers for winter.
Plan activities: Beach days in summer, cultural tours in cooler months.
Check forecasts: Stay updated on weather changes during your trip.
Understanding Split's weather will help you make the most of your visit.
Hotels in Split
When choosing where to stay in Split, you'll find a range of options to suit every preference and budget.
From luxurious hotels like Radisson Blu Resort and Hotel Vestibul Palace to more budget-friendly stays and family-friendly accommodations, there's something for everyone.
Whether you prefer beachfront views or a cozy spot in the city center, Split's hotels and vacation rentals offer a variety of choices to enhance your visit.
Luxury Accommodation Options
For a luxurious stay in Split, you can choose from a range of exceptional hotels that combine modern comforts with historical charm.
One standout option is the Radisson Blu Resort Split, offering upscale amenities like a private beach, outdoor pool, and spa.
If you prefer being in the heart of the city, Hotel Park is a historic 4-star hotel located in the Old Town, providing easy access to Split's top attractions.
For a unique experience, consider Hotel Vestibul Palace, a boutique luxury hotel in a restored 4th-century palace.
- Radisson Blu Resort Split: Upscale amenities, private beach, outdoor pool, spa.
- Hotel Park: Historic 4-star hotel, Old Town location.
- Hotel Vestibul Palace: Boutique hotel, 4th-century palace.
Budget-Friendly Stays
Finding budget-friendly accommodations in Split doesn't mean sacrificing comfort or convenience. You can stay at Hotel Vestibul Palace, a 4-star boutique hotel, with rooms starting around €100 per night.
Another great option is Hotel Park, offering 4-star accommodation with rooms from €70 per night.
If you're looking for something in the €90-120 range, Hotel Marmont Heritage provides excellent 4-star stays.
Palace Judita Heritage Hotel, also a 4-star property, has rooms averaging €120 per night.
For even more affordable options, consider Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms, where you can find a range of budget-friendly private apartments and studios. These options guarantee you'll have a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
Family-Friendly Hotels
Split offers a variety of family-friendly hotels that combine comfort, convenience, and fun for all ages. Radisson Blu Resort Split is a top choice with its outdoor pool, kids' club, and family-friendly amenities.
At Hotel Park, you'll find spacious rooms, a children's pool, and easy access to the Riva promenade for family strolls.
Hotel Vestibul Palace, located in Diocletian's Palace, offers connecting rooms and suites perfect for families.
Other options include:
- Hotel Marmont Heritage: Family rooms and a rooftop terrace with city views.
- Palace Judita Heritage Hotel: Charming accommodations in a 16th-century palace, ideal for discovering Split.
- Hotel Vestibul Palace: Conveniently located within the historic center, offering connecting rooms.
These hotels guarantee a memorable stay for families in Split.
Private Accommodation
You'll discover a wide array of private accommodation options in Split, ranging from cozy apartments to luxurious villas with stunning sea views. These options often provide more space, amenities, and a more authentic local experience compared to traditional hotels. You can find private accommodations through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Homeaway. Prices vary considerably, with budget-friendly studios and luxury villas available.
| Type | Location | Booking Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Cozy Apartment | Historic Old Town | Airbnb |
| Luxury Villa | Sea View | Booking.com |
| Budget Studio | Surrounding Neighborhoods | Homeaway |
| Family Home | City Center | Airbnb |
| Chic Loft | Near Attractions | Booking.com |
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee availability and the best deals.
Best Restaurants
After settling into your private accommodation, you'll want to explore Split's culinary scene, starting with some of the best restaurants the city has to offer.
For a taste of modern Mediterranean cuisine, head to Bokeria Kitchen and Wine, where local ingredients shine in every dish.
If you're in the mood for seafood with a view, Zrno Soli offers creative dishes alongside panoramic vistas of the Riva promenade.
For a more traditional experience, visit Dvor within Diocletian's Palace, renowned for its grilled meat specialties.
- Bokeria Kitchen and Wine: Modern Mediterranean cuisine
- Zrno Soli: Panoramic views and seafood
- Dvor: Traditional Dalmatian grilled meats
Best Beaches
From sandy stretches like Bačvice Beach to the pebble shores of Marjan Park, you'll find some of the best beaches in Croatia right here in Split.
Bačvice Beach is perfect for swimming and water sports, while Kasjuni Beach on the Marjan Peninsula offers cliff jumping and snorkeling with stunning rocky cliffs and turquoise waters.
Žnjan Beach, close to the city center, is lively with beachside bars and activities like kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.
For a more tranquil experience, Bene Beach in Marjan Park provides shaded areas and hiking trails leading to panoramic viewpoints.
With summer sea temperatures reaching up to 26°C, Split's beaches are ideal for extended periods of swimming and relaxation.
Top Attractions
When you visit Split, you can't miss the top attractions that capture the city's rich history and natural beauty.
Start with a tour of Diocletian's Palace and the Historic Old Town to experience the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture.
Then, head to Marjan Hill for breathtaking views and serene hiking trails.
Diocletian's Palace Tour
Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia, offers a fascinating tour of its top attractions, including the well-preserved Peristyle Square and the historic Cathedral of St. Domnius. As you navigate, you'll marvel at the grandeur of this UNESCO Global Heritage Site.
The Peristyle Square serves as a central hub, showcasing stunning Roman architecture. The Cathedral of St. Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, is one of the oldest cathedrals in the globe.
Don't miss:
- The Golden Gate: One of the four original entrances to the palace.
- Jupiter's Temple: A small but impressive temple within the palace complex.
- The Substructures: Underground vaults that reveal the palace's original infrastructure.
Take your time to soak in the rich history and architectural beauty.
Historic Old Town
Situated within Split's historic Old Town, you'll find an array of top attractions that offer an intriguing blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy.
At the heart lies Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Roman palaces. The Peristyle, the palace's central square, showcases stunning Roman architecture and is a popular gathering spot.
Nearby, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, stands as one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use.
For a more modern vibe, visit the Riva, Split's scenic seafront promenade bustling with cafes and restaurants.
Don't miss wandering the charming, cobblestone streets to explore hidden shops and local sites steeped in history.
Marjan Hill Views
Marjan Hill offers stunning panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea, making it a must-visit attraction. This large forested peninsula is perfect for outdoor lovers, with its well-maintained hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
At the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Split's historic center, Diocletian's Palace, and the nearby islands.
The hill's tranquil, natural setting contrasts beautifully with the bustling old town below, providing a peaceful retreat.
Don't miss the Mestrović Gallery, where you can admire the works of the famous Croatian sculptor.
Popular activities on Marjan Hill include:
- Hiking through lush trails
- Biking along scenic routes
- Relaxing at the various beaches and coves
Explore Marjan Hill to experience the best of Split's natural beauty.
Transportation
In Split, you'll find various transportation options that make getting around the city and its surroundings a breeze.
The city's international airport is conveniently located just a short distance from the city center, making air travel straightforward.
Public transportation includes efficient buses and ferries that connect you to different parts of the city and nearby areas.
The city center is highly walkable, allowing you to discover main attractions on foot.
For those looking to venture beyond Split, renting a car is a reasonable option.
Scooters and bicycles are also popular choices, providing a fun and convenient way to traverse the city.
These diverse transportation options guarantee you can easily enjoy everything Split has to offer.
Nearby Excursions
Exploring Split's surroundings offers an abundance of exhilarating day trips and excursions that will leave you amazed.
One popular destination is Krka National Park, known for its stunning waterfalls. It's just a 1-hour drive from Split, and you can also take a boat tour to access the park's main attractions. Once there, enjoy hiking back from the waterfalls, which takes around an hour.
Another excellent excursion is a ferry trip to Brač Island, only 50 minutes away. This makes for an easy and delightful day trip filled with beautiful scenery and island adventures.
Additionally, consider joining a tour to visit five nearby islands in a single day for an unforgettable experience.
