Split

Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is home to the ancient Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city's Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and historic buildings, where you can explore Roman ruins, climb the Cathedral bell tower, or shop at local markets. Along the coast, you'll find beaches like Bačvice and the Riva promenade. Nearby, Marjan Hill offers hiking trails and viewpoints. Split's location on the Dalmatian coast makes it easy to visit nearby islands like Brač and Hvar.

Exploring Diocletian's Palace and the Old Town

At the heart of Split lies Diocletian's Palace, an ancient Roman complex built in the 4th century AD. Today, the palace forms the core of Split's Old Town, with shops, cafes, and homes integrated into its historic structures. As you wander the narrow limestone streets, you'll encounter landmarks like the Peristyle courtyard and the Temple of Jupiter. The palace basement halls preserve much of the original Roman architecture and often host exhibitions and events. For views over the Old Town, climb the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, which was originally Diocletian's mausoleum.

Split's Beaches and Coastal Areas

Split has several beaches where you can relax and swim in the Adriatic Sea. Bačvice Beach, a sandy stretch close to the Old Town, is popular with locals and visitors. Here you might see people playing picigin, a traditional ball game invented in Split. For a calmer experience, head to the pebble beaches of Kašjuni or Bene on the Marjan peninsula. The Riva, Split's waterfront promenade, is lined with cafes and benches, making it a good spot for an evening stroll or people-watching.

Hiking and Exploring Marjan Hill

Marjan Hill, a forested peninsula west of the Old Town, provides a natural escape within the city. You can hike or bike along trails that wind through pine forests and past medieval chapels. The hill's southern slopes offer views over Split and the surrounding islands. At the summit, you'll find a Croatian flag and a viewpoint. The area also contains several beaches, a zoo, and the Meštrović Gallery, featuring works by Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović.

Tasting Split's Cuisine

Split's cuisine reflects its coastal location and Mediterranean influences. Try local specialties like pašticada (slow-cooked beef in a sweet and sour sauce) or black risotto colored with cuttlefish ink. The Green Market (Pazar) near the eastern walls of Diocletian's Palace sells fresh produce and local delicacies. For a more upscale dining experience, several restaurants in the Old Town offer creative interpretations of traditional Dalmatian dishes. You can pair your meal with a glass of Croatian wine – the nearby regions of Pelješac and Hvar produce reds and whites.

Taking Day Trips from Split

Split's central location on the Dalmatian coast makes it a good base for exploring nearby islands and coastal towns. Regular ferries connect Split to islands like Brač, known for its V-shaped beach, and Hvar, with its lavender fields and nightlife. You can also visit the town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage site, located just 30 minutes north of Split. For nature lovers, Krka National Park with its waterfalls is within reach for a day trip.