The Best Travel Guide to Split

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Split

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Europe Croatia Split

Overview

Split The guide was updated: 2023-10-30

The coastline of the Atlantic Sea cradles the elegance of the historical city of Split. Chosen by the Roman emperor Diocletian as his residence, Split accommodates his giant palace — an intricate complex of quaint alleys and squares with over 1700 years of history, — a real city within a city.

While the charm of the historic sites captivates many holidaymakers who flock to Split throughout the hot Croatian summer, the unspoiled nature and crystalline waters just make them fall in love.

Facts

Population:	167,121 (2023)
Currency:	On January 1st 2023, Euro replaced Croatian kuna as the country's official currency.
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Police: 92 Medical emergency: 94 Rescue at Sea: 9155 Fire brigade: 93
Newspapers:	Slobodna Dalmacija (local cultural events) – www.slobodnadalmacija.hr Vecernji List (national newspaper) – www.vecernji.hr Jutarnji List (national newspaper) – www.jutarnji.hr Croatia Week (news in English) – www.croatiaweek.com
Website:	www.visitsplit.com/en
Opening hours:	During the tourist season, most shops are open from 8 am till 8 pm on weekdays, and many shops stay open at the weekend. Banks and businesses generally work from 8 am until 4 pm on weekdays.
Tourist information:	Tourist Information Centre (TIC) Peristil Tel: +385 21 345 606 touristinfo@visitsplit.com Open Mon–Sat 8am–8pm, Sun 8am–2pm

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Section in Split

The ancient walls of the Old City encircle squares, crescents and architectural beauties that create a cultural hub for the travellers to discover. Split has a rich history that is apparent to everyone who sets foot in the city. Here you will find historical sites as The Cathedral Of St. Domnius, the main part of which dates to the 4th century CE; Pjaca Clock Tower and Diocletian’s Palace to name a few. Besides the treasure of the magnificent past, Split also offers the timeless beauty of nature: its crystalline waters, long stretches of white beaches and the green oasis embedded at the tip of the peninsula are a major draw for nature lovers, offering hundreds of options for outdoor activities or water-sports. Thanks to its stunning surroundings the captivating city of Split has fully embraced tourism, creating a destination where its natural peculiarities have been enhanced by vibrant of bars, restaurants, shops and cultural institutions.

Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace

Diocletian’s Palace is the city's pride and glory — it houses the alleys and squares that compose the Old Town. Built for the Emperor Diocletian back in the 4th century CE, it boasts an impressive figure and a well-preserved building. As you walk through the Bronze Gate, a stunning view of the Palace will be disclosed to the eyes, revealing the magnificent ancient fortress. The ancient fortress is not just a dusty monument. It has become a vibrant neighbourhood with many shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as some apartments. Around 3,000 people live on the territory of Diocletian's palace today. In the popular HBO show Game of Thones, Diocletian’s Palace doubles as the city of Meereen.

Cathedral of St Domnius

Cathedral of St Domnius

Situated within the Diocletan Palace's walls, St Domnious Cathedral is shrouded in history. Created as a mausoleum, it is currently one of the oldest Catholic Cathedral still in use and, with its peculiar octagonal-shaped building, it has an immeasurable artistic value. It was in this Cathedral that the remains of the Emperor disappeared after having had rested there for 170 years.

Narodni Trg — People’s Square

Narodni Trg — People’s Square

Narodni Trg, the pulsing heart of the city, buzzes with life and artistic landmarks. The iconic Clock Tower and the majestic Town Hall (which has been turned into an ethnographic museum) dominate the square. Perfect for a leisurely stroll, it also features dainty cafeterias and bars.

Croatian Maritime Museum

Croatian Maritime Museum

Rich in archaeological finds and artefacts, the Croatian Maritime Museum is located inside the 17th century Gripe Fortress. Catch a glimpse of the artistic beauties long lost in sea. The exhibitions show that the maritime community had a major influence throughout the Adriatic Sea.

Archaeological Museum

Archaeological Museum

The Archaeological Museum boasts a comprehensive display of Illyrian, Greek and Roman artefacts, offering a complete overview of the region's history. One of the highlights of the visit is the library with 30,000 books regarding archaeology and history.

Ivan Meštrović Gallery

Ivan Meštrović Gallery

The Ivan Meštrović Gallery is a neoclassical building originally intended to be the home of the famous artist, now housing an impressive collection of his artworks. The permanent display features beautiful architectural projects, drawings and sculptures.

Split City Museum

Split City Museum

The Split City Museum houses a great collection that presents the cultural and historical heritage of Split, giving an expansive glimpse into the city's past. Including sculptures, paintings and diverse artworks, it is set in a 14th century palace. Guided tours can be arranged in advance.

Marjan Forest Park

Marjan Forest Park

A sweeping portion of Split peninsula is covered by a thick Mediterranean flora that creates the Marjan Forest Park. An intricate knot of walking paths, jogging trails, lookout points, a botanical garden and more attracts hiking enthusiasts and everyone who wants a respite from the busy city life.

Boat Trips

Boat Trips

Jadrolinija ferry terminal and surrounding piers are a gateway to the surrounding islands. Hvar is one of the most coveted destinations with historical sites and beautiful beaches. Brač, a white, pebbly beach, perfect for surfing, follows right after Hvar, whereas Korkula Island is mostly visited for its medieval towers and walls. Package tours will gladly take you to several islands in just one day.

Bačvice Beach

Bačvice Beach

Bačvice is the closest beach to downtown Split and, though it gets extremely crowded over summer, is a delightful spot to relax under the hot sun. Hide from the heat and rehydrate at any of the numerous quaint cafes frequented by locals playing picigin, a ball game that sees its origin here in Split.

Bene Beach

Bene Beach

A secluded cove in the northern coast of Marjan Forest Park — Bene Beach doesn't resemble the sandy Croatian beaches but boasts its one-of-a-kind charm. A long excursion through the forest will lead you to its pebbly seafront, where you can rest your feet in the clear water surrounded by untouched nature. A restaurant is also located a few steps away.

Pjaca Clock Tower

Pjaca Clock Tower

Dominating Nardoni Trg, Pjaca Clock Tower imposes its figure with its impressive 1700 years of history. The tower's impressive height can be walked up a steep stairway, that culminates in a breath-taking view of the Old Town and its vibrant flow of people. The tower features a 24-hour clock face signed with Roman numerals.

Riva Waterfront

Riva Waterfront

The fashionable Riva waterfront boardwalk is where to be headed for a stroll, blessed by the sound of the waves crushing to the shore and the scent of seaweed in the air. The seafront promenade offers coffee shops and bars, representing the perfect destination to be seen and to observe the curious stream of people passing by.

Trg Republike — Republic Square

Trg Republike — Republic Square

Buzzing with people throughout the hot season, Trg Republike (or Republic Square) is where concerts and festivals are held. The square, constructed in a peculiar Venetian style, is a renowned gathering point, as well as a great spot to sip a coffee and sample some traditional cuisine at the quaint eateries and coffee shops.

Gregory of Nin Statue

Gregory of Nin Statue

Nothing extremely thrilling can be said about this statue, which, located in front of the northern gate of the Diocletian Palace, rises up celebrating bishop Grgur (Gregory of Nin) who firmly opposed the Pope and introduced the Croatian language into Catholic services. You may want to stop by though: its well-polished big toe is said to bring good luck for those who rub it.

Podrum — Cellars of Diocletian's Palace

Podrum — Cellars of Diocletian's Palace

The ancient prison, a tangle of underground chambers concealed underneath the Diocletian Palace, is nowadays open only for special events. The main alley that links the cells together, open daily, treats the tourists with an array of picturesque stalls, well-equipped with souvenirs and artworks of any sort. In the HBO show Game of Thrones, Daenerys Targaryen locks up her enemies, as well as two of her dragons. These scenes were filmed right here, in the cellars of Diocletian's Palace.

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