· HR

Split

Split, Splitsko-Dalmatinska Zupanija, Croatia

Split: Where Roman History Meets Adriatic Beauty Step into a living postcard in Split, Croatia! This captivating coastal city, nestled on the sun-drenched Dalmatian coast, seamlessly blends ancient history with modern vi…

#Split#Dalmatia#Croatia#Adriatic Sea#Historic City

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Split.

Top Hotels in Split

Top Flights to Split

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Split.

Tours

Explore Diocletian's Palace

Visit the historical Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that forms the heart of the city.

Riva Promenade Stroll

Take a leisurely stroll along the Riva Promenade, lined with cafes and palm trees.

Game of Thrones Tour

Discover the filming locations of 'Game of Thrones' around Split.

Explore Split's Old Town

Wander through the charming cobblestone streets of Split's Old Town.

Shopping

Split Market Shopping

Experience local culture by shopping at the bustling Split Market.

Outdoor

Marjan Hill Hike

Enjoy a hike up Marjan Hill for stunning views of Split and the surrounding islands.

Bacvice Beach Day

Relax and swim at Bacvice Beach, famous for its sandy shores and vibrant atmosphere.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Split.

Currency

kn | HRK | Croatian Kuna

Population

178,000

Languages

Croatian, Italian, German

Average weather

Split

Jan

10°5°

Feb

11°5°

Mar

14°7°

Apr

17°10°

May

22°14°

Jun

26°18°

Jul

30°21°

Aug

30°21°

Sep

26°18°

Oct

21°14°

Nov

16°10°

Dec

12°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Split.

What people love

There are several pros of traveling to Split, Croatia:

Historical and Cultural Attractions: Split is home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, an ancient Roman palace complex that is now a bustling area filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the palace's underground chambers, climb the bell tower for panoramic views, and wander through the narrow winding streets.
Beautiful Coastline: Split is located along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, offering visitors access to beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and picturesque islands just a short ferry ride away. The famous Bacvice Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming.
Vibrant Atmosphere: Split is a lively city with a bustling waterfront promenade, vibrant markets, and a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Visitors can enjoy the city's lively nightlife scene, with bars and clubs catering to all tastes.
Gateway to Island Hopping: Split is a convenient starting point for exploring the nearby Dalmatian islands, such as Hvar, Brac, and Vis. Visitors can take day trips to these islands to enjoy their pristine beaches, charming villages, and local cuisine.
Outdoor Activities: Split offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking in the nearby Marjan Forest Park, cycling along the coast, and water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The city's location also makes it a great base for exploring nearby national parks like Krka and Plitvice Lakes.

Overall, Split offers a mix of historical charm, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Croatia.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Split, Croatia could include:

Crowds: Split is a popular tourist destination, especially during the peak summer months. This can result in crowded streets, attractions, and beaches, which may not be ideal for travelers looking for a more peaceful or secluded experience.
High Prices: As a tourist hotspot, prices for accommodations, restaurants, and activities in Split can be higher compared to other parts of Croatia. Budget-conscious travelers may find it more challenging to stick to their spending limits in this city.
Heat and Humidity: Split experiences hot and humid summers, which may be uncomfortable for some travelers, particularly those who are not used to such weather conditions.
Noise and Nightlife: Split is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, particularly in the bustling Diocletian's Palace area. While this can be a draw for some visitors, others looking for a quieter vacation may find the noise and party atmosphere disruptive.
Limited Beach Space: Split's beaches can get crowded during the summer months, and finding a spot to relax by the sea may be challenging. Additionally, some beaches in Split are rocky rather than sandy, which may not be to everyone's liking.

It's important to note that these potential cons may vary depending on individual preferences and travel styles. It's always a good idea to research and plan ahead to address any concerns before visiting Split.

Split is a historic city located on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, known for its rich heritage and stunning architecture. Its history spans several millennia, characterized by the influences of various empires and cultures.

Ancient History

Founded by the Greeks: Split's origins can be traced back to the 3rd or 2nd century BCE when it was established as a Greek colony named Aspalathos.
Roman Era: The most significant event in Split's early history is the construction of Diocletian's Palace. Around 305 CE, the Roman Emperor Diocletian built this massive palace as his retirement residence. The palace complex is one of the best-preserved Roman structures and forms the historical core of Split.

Medieval Period

Byzantine Influence: After the fall of the Western Roman Empire, Split came under Byzantine control.
Croatian and Venetian Rule: By the 7th century, the city was settled by the Croats. Split later became part of the Croatian Kingdom and then the Kingdom of Hungary. In the 15th century, it fell under Venetian rule, which lasted for several centuries.

Early Modern and Modern History

Austrian and French Occupation: After the fall of the Venetian Republic in 1797, Split came under Austrian control, interrupted briefly by French rule during the Napoleonic Wars.
Yugoslavia: In the 20th century, Split became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia after World War I. During World War II, it was occupied by Italy and later by Germany.
Post-War and Independence: After the war, Split became part of socialist Yugoslavia. Following the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s, it became a part of the independent Republic of Croatia.

Significant Landmarks

Diocletian's Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is the most iconic landmark of Split. The palace is a large complex that includes numerous ancient buildings, squares, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally Diocletian's mausoleum.
The Peristyle: The central square of Diocletian's Palace, known for its stunning architecture and as a gathering place.
Saint Domnius Cathedral: Originally the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, it was later converted into a cathedral, making it one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in the world still in use.
Riva: The vibrant waterfront promenade that is the social hub of the city.
Marjan Hill: A recreational area with hiking trails, offering panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Historical Figures

Diocletian: Roman Emperor who chose Split as his retirement home.
Gregory of Nin: A medieval Croatian bishop known for his role in promoting the use of the Croatian language in liturgical services, symbolized by the iconic statue by Ivan Meštrović located in Split.

Split's history and strategic location have made it a cultural and historical hub in Croatia, attracting visitors worldwide to explore its ancient and medieval heritage.