Plan your Travels to Split
You have landed in Split. The warmth of the Mediterranean climate seems to say that your long-awaited vacation has finally begun. You enjoy walking through the narrow streets of the old part of the city and they tell you that it used to be the palace of an emperor. However, you surprise them because you have already read a lot about the palace. They welcome you to Split, Dalmatia. You ask yourself, Dalmatia – what is it? We are in Croatia, aren’t we? Let us explore a centuries-old mystery. Let us go back to distant history.
Croatia’s second-largest city, Split is a vibrant destination with the opportunity to get to know authentic daily life and friendly locals, spend time on beautiful beaches, and discover some of the world’s most well-preserved Roman architecture.
The story of Split began when Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build a palace for his retirement days here, on a peninsula close to the great Roman city of Salona. Many centuries later, that palace and the city that was born within its walls was to become part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List.
Walking around this ancient city is like travelling through time, from antique-era Aspalathos to modern day Split. You will enjoy outstanding architecture, visiting museums and numerous events. At the same time, Split will absorb you into its special state of mind.
Don’t miss all our trips, such as the Game of Thrones Tour, Small Ship Cruises and Dalmatian hinterland Tours or Half day Trogir Tour.
Trip to Split FAQs
What is the best time to visit Diocletian’s Palace?
Diocletian’s Palace is worth visiting anytime, but the evening hours are particularly enchanting without the crowds that fill it during the day. Enjoy the magical atmosphere by relaxing on the steps that lead to the Peristyle, the Old City’s main square, and the former central courtyard of the palace. Grab a coffee or a glass of wine from one of the charming cafes, soaking it all in with the magnificent Corinthian columns softly lit in pink while music softly plays in the background.
What are the essential sights to see in Split?
The No. 1 attraction in Split is Diocletian’s Palace but there are several essential sights within the historic complex. Be sure to see the Cathedral of St. Domnius. Built over the late 3rd and early 4th centuries, it’s the oldest of its kind in the world and includes a more than 190-foot-high gothic-style bell tower that can be climbed for a panoramic view. St. Duje Cathedral on Peristyle Square, the Temple of Jupiter, and the palace cellars should also not be missed. Other essentials include the Green Market, Bacvice Beach, and Marjan Hill where you’ll find one of the best sunset views around.
From
Matilda Your Croatia Expert
How many days do you need in Split?
You can see most of the highlights in Split over two days, but ideally, you’ll have three or four. Thanks to the city’s central location, there is a long list of fantastic day trips that can be enjoyed from here, including medieval Trogir, the famous Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, and other nearby islands like Brac, Hvar, Vis, and Solta. On your first day, you might explore the palace, people watch along the Riva promenade, and sample the delicious food and wine. On the second day, visit the museums and galleries, check out the beaches, and perhaps enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, or hiking.
Is there any adventure activities in Split?
With wonderful parks, back alleys and bike-laned waterfront promenades, riding around Split is a great way to get some easy exercise and see the sights at your own pace. Most agencies offer well-maintained top name hybrid and mountain bikes. You can also rent Segway’s, electric bikes and even Trikke electric scooters. Favorite local rides are Marjan Hill Park, the big green hill that overlooks the city, which has a beach with changing booths, cafe’s and more at Bene; along the Riva, to the Western Promenade and then towards Mestrovic Gallery and the beaches below in the Meje neighborhood. From Split, you can be kayaking in 15 minutes on one of the many day trips from Bene at the end of Marjan Hill.
Is there any adventure on Islands from Split?
Croatia has more than 1,200 islands! An hour or less from Split are some of the best. Vis, only 60 miles from the Italian coast, takes several hours. Closed for decades as a military base (it was from here that Tito and the partisans fought against the Nazi’s) is the least touristy, with excellent beaches, charming towns and history back to the 4thC BC Solta is where the Emperor Diocletian chose to have his summer home. Bucolic, great sailing and biking and home to a singular olive, honey and wine tour. Hvar, an hour by catamaran, two by ferry, famous for its glitterati visitors and worldclass party scene, has gorgeous Renaissance architecture as well as the oldest, continuously farmed agricultural plot on the planet in Stari Grad. Brac, with the best ferry service, just 45 minutes away, has Croatia’s most famous beach at Bol and much, much more. Korcula, less than 3 hours via catamaran, has great wine, Marco Polo, wild beaches, outstanding medieval architecture. Fast, safe, reliable in your own gorgeous speedboat, or a small group tour, daily from Split. Such great choices!
