When planning your trip to Split, Croatia, you'll want to know the best places to stay to experience the city's rich history and vibrant culture. Whether you're drawn to the ancient allure of Old Town and Diocletian's Palace, the scenic streets of Veli Varos, or the lively atmosphere of Bacvice Beach, each neighborhood offers something unique. You might prefer the serene retreats of Meje and Spinut or the modern flair of Trstenik. But what exactly makes each area special? Let's examine your options and find the perfect fit for your stay.
Key Takeaways
- Old Town offers vibrant accommodations within Diocletian's Palace, perfect for history enthusiasts and those seeking lively nightlife.
- Veli Varos provides charming, historic lodgings with easy access to traditional Dalmatian cuisine and scenic Marjan Hill trails.
- Bacvice is ideal for beach lovers, offering beachfront hotels, vibrant nightlife, and various water sports activities.
- Meje offers tranquil, residential stays with stunning Adriatic Sea views, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
- Budget-friendly options include Spinut Hostel, Guesthouse Ruža, and various affordable apartments in Spinut, Trstenik, and Meje.
Old Town (Diocletian's Palace)
Staying in Split's Old Town puts you right next to the historic Diocletian's Palace, where you can easily explore the city's top attractions.
You'll find a range of accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels to self-catering apartments, offering a variety of experiences. The pedestrianized streets are car-free, making it easy to get around, though nighttime noise can be an issue.
Accommodations within the palace walls are often more expensive because of their prime location in the UNESCO-protected historic center. The Old Town's lively atmosphere is enhanced by its shops, restaurants, and bars, creating an immersive experience.
With porter services available, moving around with luggage is hassle-free, ensuring a comfortable stay in Split's cultural heart.
Veli Varos
In Veli Varos, you'll find charming historic architecture that offers a glimpse into Split's past, along with local cuisine that's sure to tantalize your taste buds.
The neighborhood's partly pedestrian-only streets provide a peaceful setting, perfect for traversing on foot.
Don't miss the scenic walking trails around Marjan Hill, which offer breathtaking views and a tranquil escape from the city.
Historic Architecture Highlights
The charm of Veli Varos lies in its cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings, offering a visually striking glimpse into Split's rich architectural heritage. This historic neighborhood showcases a blend of traditional stone houses and narrow alleys that transport you back in time. You'll find exquisite self-catering apartments and small boutique hotels, adding to the area's allure. For a unique stay, consider Heritage Hotel 19, set in a former olive oil press.
| Highlight | Description |
|---|---|
| Cobblestone Streets | Picturesque pathways winding through the area |
| Centuries-Old Buildings | Historic stone structures with traditional charm |
| Heritage Hotel 19 | Elegant hotel in a historic olive oil press |
| Divota Apartment Hotel | Fully-furnished studios and apartments |
Staying in Veli Varos offers a serene, central location without the Old Town's hustle.
Local Cuisine Delights
Located at the foot of Marjan Hill, Veli Varos boasts an array of charming local restaurants and taverns that offer a taste of traditional Croatian cuisine.
You'll find exceptional seafood dishes featuring fresh catches from the nearby Adriatic waters. Sample authentic Dalmatian specialties like black risotto, octopus peka, and gregada (a fish stew) in the neighborhood's cozy eateries.
Many restaurants in Veli Varos source their ingredients from local producers, ensuring each dish showcases the region's distinct flavors.
The laidback atmosphere and scenic views provide the perfect setting to savor a leisurely meal and experience the local culinary culture. Enjoying a meal here truly encapsulates the essence of Split's rich gastronomic heritage.
Scenic Walking Trails
Traverse Veli Varos's scenic walking trails and you'll discover breathtaking views of Split and the Adriatic Sea.
Situated at the foot of Marjan Hill, this charming neighborhood offers an ideal escape with its well-marked paths.
Marjan Forest Park, a protected green oasis, showcases lush, forested trails perfect for a peaceful hike.
For a seaside experience, the Sustipan Trail guides you past historic churches, idyllic alleys, and small beaches.
Veli Varos's tree-lined streets and quaint atmosphere make it perfect for leisurely strolls, immersing you in the local ambiance.
Accommodations in the area, like cozy bed and breakfasts and charming apartments, provide easy access to these scenic walking trails and natural surroundings.
Bacvice
When staying in Bacvice, you'll enjoy a range of beachfront activities and vibrant nightlife.
The sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports, while the area's lively beach bars and clubs keep the energy high after dark.
With numerous dining options and stunning sea views, Bacvice offers a well-rounded experience for both relaxation and excitement.
Beachfront Activities
Bacvice beach, Split's most famous shoreline, buzzes with energy thanks to its beach bars, cafes, and a variety of water sports. Don't miss the chance to engage in activities like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. The beach is also perfect for a relaxing swim in the Adriatic Sea.
| Activity | Description | Best Time to Enjoy |
|---|---|---|
| Jet Skiing | Thrill-seekers can rent jet skis | Midday |
| Paddleboarding | Traverse the coastline while balancing on a board | Morning or Evening |
| Beach Volleyball | Join a game or start your own | Late Afternoon |
| Swimming | Relax in the clear, calm waters | Anytime |
With so much to do, Bacvice is a must-visit!
Nightlife and Dining
You'll find that Bacvice comes alive at night with its energetic beach bars and vibrant clubs. This area is a hotspot for nightlife in Split, offering something for everyone.
If you're looking for a place to stay, consider Hotel Park. It's a beachfront hotel with stunning sea views.
Bacvice isn't just about the nightlife; it also provides convenient access to water sports and beach activities during the day.
When it comes to dining, you'll find a range of options, from casual beachside eateries to more upscale restaurants.
Plus, Bacvice is within walking distance or a short trip from Split's historic Old Town, making it easy to discover during the day.
Meje
Meje offers a tranquil escape from Split's bustling city center, making it perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
This residential area showcases a range of accommodations, from charming villas to modern apartments, ideal for travelers who prefer a serene environment.
You'll find that Meje provides easy access to natural spaces and greenery, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors while still being close to Split's top attractions.
Located on the northern side of the Marjan peninsula, Meje boasts stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Compared to the lively Old Town, Meje is the ideal choice for escaping the crowds and experiencing a more relaxed side of Split.
Trstenik
Trstenik offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a quieter, residential vibe that's perfect for a relaxed stay in Split.
This area provides a safe and peaceful environment, making it ideal for families.
You'll find a variety of accommodations, from modern apartments to traditional villas, all catering to your comfort and needs.
Trstenik is close to parks, playgrounds, and other family-oriented amenities.
Spacious apartments and vacation rentals
Proximity to green spaces
Well-connected to the Old Town via public transportation
Safe environment for children
Family-oriented amenities
Trstenik's residential charm and convenient location make it an excellent choice for a tranquil base while discovering Split.
Spinut
Situated next to the northern part of the Marjan forest park, Spinut offers a quieter, residential retreat with stunning views of Kaštelanski Bay. This area is perfect if you're looking to unwind away from the bustling Old Town. Spinut's charm is enhanced by its famous residents, including actor Boris Dvornik and his son, singer-actor Dino Dvornik.
To help you enjoy Spinut, here's a quick guide:
| Accommodation | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sperone Hotel | Near Diocletian's Palace and Prokurative square |
| Piano Suites | Budget-friendly, clean, and bright accommodations |
| Peaceful Atmosphere | Less crowded than the Old Town |
| Stunning Views | Overlooks Kaštelanski Bay |
| Proximity to Nature | Adjacent to Marjan forest park |
Spinut is ideal for a serene and scenic stay in Split.
Best Split Hotels
For an unforgettable stay in Split, consider these top hotels that blend luxury, history, and modern amenities. Each offers unique characteristics and prime locations, ensuring a comfortable and memorable visit.
Heritage Hotel Cardo: Blends original Roman architecture with baroque decor in Split's Old Town.
Judita Palace Heritage Hotel: Located next to Diocletian's Palace, offering views of the nearby square.
Splendida Palace: Centrally located with an outdoor pool and wellness facilities.
Marvie Hotel & Health: Includes two pools, a spa, and is pet-friendly, ideal for families and couples.
Ellure Luxury Suites: Well-situated for sightseeing, just a five-minute walk from Diocletian's Palace.
These hotels provide a perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and style.
New and Modern Hotels
If you're seeking the latest in comfort and style, Split's new and modern hotels offer cutting-edge amenities and prime locations.
Hotel Park Split provides modern amenities and stunning panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea from its beachfront location.
For a sleek and contemporary experience, Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split features an outdoor pool and wellness center.
Cornaro Hotel, located in Split's historic Old Town, blends historic architecture with modern comforts, including a rooftop bar.
Marvie Hotel & Health offers two swimming pools, a spa, and pet-friendly rooms in a tranquil setting.
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort on the island of Hvar boasts a chic design, a private beach, and multiple dining options for a luxurious stay.
Budget Accommodation
Looking for budget accommodation in Split? You've got plenty of affordable options. Hostel Dioklecijan, located in the heart of the Old Town, offers both private rooms and dorms starting at €10 per night.
If you prefer a quieter area, Spinut Hostel has dorms from €12 per night.
For a cozy stay close to the Riva, consider Guesthouse Ruža, which provides basic yet clean rooms from €20.
Apartment Srma offers studio apartments with kitchenettes from €30.
Apartment Zrinka provides one-bedroom units in Bacvice from €50.
Apartments in Split
When choosing an apartment in Split, you'll find prime locations within the historic Diocletian's Palace and the charming Veli Varos neighborhood.
These areas offer a mix of authentic experiences and easy access to major attractions.
Many apartments provide budget-friendly options without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
Prime Locations for Apartments
You'll find some of the best apartments in Split situated in prime locations like Diocletian's Palace, Veli Varos, Bacvice, Meje, and Spinut. Each area offers unique advantages catering to different tastes and preferences.
Diocletian's Palace: High-end, converted apartments with historical charm and modern amenities.
Veli Varos: Cozy, self-catering apartments exuding a local village atmosphere.
Bacvice: Beachfront apartments with stunning sea views and easy nightlife access.
Meje: Tranquil, residential apartments perfect for a peaceful retreat.
Spinut: Budget-friendly rentals close to the Old Town.
Whether you seek historical allure, beachfront excitement, or a serene neighborhood, these locations provide excellent options for a comfortable and memorable stay in Split.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation Options
Finding budget-friendly apartments in Split is easier than you'd expect, with plenty of options offering great value without sacrificing comfort.
Neighborhoods like Spinut, Trstenik, and Meje provide a more authentic local experience and are home to numerous vacation rentals. Apartments such as Piano Suites and Grgur Ninski Apartments offer clean, bright accommodations at a fraction of hotel costs.
Many budget apartments, like those in the Jure Apartments complex, come equipped with kitchens, allowing you to save money by cooking your meals.
Platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com list many affordable options within a 15-20 minute walk of the Old Town and top attractions.
Staying in areas like Dobri, Manus, and Lucac keeps you close to vibrant art, music, and nightlife scenes.
