Split

Food | Wine | Architecture

Split Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go

When it comes to Split, Croatia, there are three things that truly stand out: the food, the wine, and the architecture. From mouthwatering local delicacies to fine wines that capture the essence of the region, Split offers a culinary experience like no other. And let’s not forget about its remarkable architecture – a blend of ancient Roman ruins and vibrant modern structures.

Before you travel to Split, we want to share some of what we learned during our month-long stay. First and foremost, Split has some of the freshest seafood dishes we have ever tasted. The Adriatic Sea that surrounds Split is home to a variety of fish and shellfish, which means you are in for a treat when it comes to seafood. From grilled octopus drizzled with olive oil to traditional Dalmatian fish stew, the local cuisine will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Secondly, the fine Croatian wine should not be overlooked. The region’s winemaking tradition dates back centuries, and today, Split boasts a thriving wine scene. Whether you prefer reds, whites, or the unique orange wines produced here, there’s something to suit every palate. Take a leisurely stroll through the vineyards or visit one of the many wineries in the area to sample some of Croatia’s finest vintages.

As for the architecture, this is what really sets Split apart. The city’s most iconic landmark is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient palace, built in the 4th century AD, showcases Roman and Venetian influences with its grand columns, intricate carvings, and imposing walls. As you wander through its labyrinthine streets, you’ll discover hidden gems like charming courtyards, quaint churches, and bustling squares. The juxtaposition of ancient history and vibrant modernity is truly a sight to behold.

But Split’s architectural wonders don’t stop at Diocletian’s Palace. The city is also home to numerous stunning churches and cathedrals, each telling its own story through intricate details and masterful craftsmanship. From the majestic Cathedral of Saint Domnius with its stunning bell tower offering panoramic views, to the elegant Church of St. Francis with its beautiful Gothic architecture, every step you take in Split will reveal a new architectural marvel.

We spent the entire month of November exploring the history and culture of Split. Below is a guide to our favorite food, wine, and architecture, plus some additional travel tips and resources we picked up along the way.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Split Food

Split Wine

Split Architecture

Where Is Split Located?

Where Is the Best Place to Stay in Split?

Hotels in Split

What Is the Best Time to Visit Split?

Weather
Shoulder Season
Best Value

FAQs About Split

Other Things to Know About Split

Split Blog Posts

Split Food

When it comes to food in Split, you’re in for a treat. The city’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of Mediterranean and Croatian flavors, offering a wide array of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds.

One must-try is the local seafood, which is incredibly fresh and flavorful. From grilled fish to octopus salad, every bite is a seafood lover’s dream. Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine from the nearby vineyards, and you have a perfect dining experience.

If you’re in the mood for something heartier, don’t miss out on trying some traditional Croatian dishes like Pasticada, a slow-cooked beef dish served with gnocchi, or Peka, a mouthwatering combination of meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid. These dishes are rich in flavor and will give you a taste of the authentic local cuisine.

The city is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can find an abundance of fresh produce, local cheeses, and unique spices. Take a stroll through the bustling Green Market and indulge your senses in the sights and smells of the local delicacies. You’ll be tempted to try everything, from juicy fruits to aromatic herbs, as you immerse yourself in the vibrant flavors of Split.

Split Wine

Split is not just a destination for food lovers but also for wine enthusiasts. The city and its surrounding region are home to some remarkable vineyards that produce exceptional wines. With a long history of winemaking dating back to Roman times, Split has truly mastered the art of viticulture.

To fully immerse yourself in Split’s wine culture, consider taking a wine tour or visiting one of the many wine bars and cellars scattered throughout the city. Here, you can sample a wide variety of local wines while learning about the winemaking process from knowledgeable sommeliers.

Split is located in the Dalmatia wine region. The Dalmatia Wine page includes information we’ve gathered about the excellent wines produced in the region.

Split Architecture

Split’s architecture is a testament to its rich history and cultural heritage. As you explore the city, you’ll be amazed by the impressive blend of different architectural styles that coexist harmoniously. From Roman ruins to medieval fortresses and Renaissance palaces, Split’s architectural landscape tells a captivating story.

One of the most prominent landmarks is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in the 4th century AD as a retirement residence for the Roman emperor Diocletian, it now serves as the heart of Split’s Old Town. Take a walk through its ancient walls and you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. The labyrinthine streets, adorned with intricate stone carvings and hidden courtyards, are a delight to explore.

But it’s not just Diocletian’s Palace that showcases Split’s architectural beauty. As you wander through the city, you’ll come across stunning examples of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture. The Cathedral of Saint Domnius stands tall with its imposing bell tower, while the Peristyle Square invites you to admire its Renaissance facades.

Make sure to visit the Riva promenade along the picturesque waterfront, where modern architecture blends seamlessly with the historical charm of Split. This vibrant promenade is a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists, offering breathtaking views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. You can take a stroll along the palm-lined walkway, stopping at one of the many cafes or restaurants to enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal.

Where Is Split Located?

Split is located in the Dalmatia region of Croatia. The city is spread over a large peninsula jutting out from the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea.

What Makes Split Unique?

The pedestrian-only Old Town (Grad), built around the iconic Diocletian’s Palace, makes Split a unique destination.

Where Is the Best Place To Stay In Split?

Hotels in Split

If you are planning a trip to Split, there are plenty of excellent places to stay. However, for the best experience, we strongly recommend staying in the Old Town. The castle marker on the map below is the heart of the Old Town. We suggest staying as close to it as possible, depending on your budget and preferences.

The below interactive map provides hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.

Book your stay now!

What Is The Best Time To Visit Split?

The best month to visit Split depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.

Weather

The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Split during the summer is pretty warm.

Below is a chart showing each month’s average high and low temperatures so you can decide what is best for you.

Shoulder Season

The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Split is April thru May and late- September thru October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.

Split is a popular tourist destination that can get busy during the summer months. July and August can get exceptionally crowded.

We spent the entire month of November in Split. The weather was typically cool in the morning but warmed up during the day.

Best Value

November through March (except for Christmas) are good months to visit Split for the best value and no crowds. You should expect cool weather from December thru February and pack accordingly.

Other Things to Know About Split

Population

According to the 2021 census, the city of Split had a population of 160,577.

Time Zone

Central European Time (CET; UTC+01:00).

Currency

The euro is the currency of Croatia.

Language

Croatian is the official language of Croatia. However, English is widely spoken in Split.

Visa

Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Croatia if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Croatia, check out our article on traveling visa-free.

Electricity

Croatia’s electrical outlets are Type C, F, and L. They have a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter.

If you have many items to plug in, we recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.

SIM Card

Travelers will want a SIM card for Croatia. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.

To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.

We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.

Airport

The Split Airport (SPU) is about 23 km (14 miles) from Split and takes about 25 minutes by taxi, which should cost around €40. The bus takes 40 to 45 minutes and costs about €2-3 to get to Split.

Car Rental

Croatia has a limited train system, and rental cars or private transfers are often required when visiting the country.

Most large American rental car brands, as well as Sixt and Europcar are available in Split. For a comparison of rental car offers from large, international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.

FAQs About Split

Is Split, Croatia worth visiting?

Split, Croatia is definitely worth visiting. Split is a vibrant and historic city located on the stunning Dalmatian Coast. It is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and lively atmosphere. The city’s main attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian’s Palace, which dates back to the 4th century and features a maze of narrow streets, ancient ruins, and impressive architecture. In addition to exploring the palace, visitors can enjoy picturesque waterfront promenades, visit museums and art galleries, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and take day trips to nearby islands and national parks.

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing by the sea, Split has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of this enchanting Croatian city! If you want more information, we explored this question in depth in our article “Is Split Worth Visiting?”

Why is Split, Croatia famous?

Split, Croatia is famous for its stunning historical landmarks, most notably the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian’s Palace. This ancient Roman palace is a must-visit attraction and is one of the best-preserved Roman buildings in the world. Split is also known for its beautiful coastline, with crystal clear waters and picturesque beaches. The city offers a vibrant nightlife scene and a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals and art exhibitions. Additionally, Split serves as a gateway to the nearby islands of Hvar, Brač, and Vis, which are renowned for their natural beauty and charming villages.

Why is Split Croatia so popular?

Split, Croatia is popular for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, Split is home to the stunning Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient palace provides a unique backdrop for exploring the city, with its mix of Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and vibrant modern life.

Additionally, Split boasts beautiful beaches along the Adriatic Sea, making it a popular destination for sunbathing and swimming. The city also offers a lively nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to locals and tourists alike.

Furthermore, Split serves as a gateway to other popular destinations in Croatia, such as the nearby islands of Hvar and Brač.

Overall, Split’s combination of history, natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere make it an appealing destination for travelers from around the world.

Which is nicer Split or Dubrovnik?

Split and Dubrovnik are beautiful cities in Croatia, each with a unique charm. Split is known for its stunning historical center, including the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a well-preserved Roman palace complex. The city offers a mix of history, culture, and a vibrant waterfront promenade.

On the other hand, Dubrovnik is famous for its picturesque old town, surrounded by medieval walls that offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The city is known for its well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture.

Ultimately, whether Split or Dubrovnik is “nicer” depends on your preferences. Some people may prefer the lively atmosphere and historical significance of Split, while others may be drawn to the charm and beauty of Dubrovnik’s old town. It is worth visiting both cities to experience their offerings firsthand.

Is Split Croatia expensive?

Split, Croatia can be considered a moderately priced destination compared to other popular European cities. While it may not be as budget-friendly as some Balkan countries, it still offers good value for money. Accommodation and dining options in Split can range from affordable to more luxurious, depending on your preferences and budget. Additionally, visiting during the off-peak season can help you find better deals and discounts. Overall, planning accordingly and making wise choices make it possible to have an enjoyable time in Split without breaking the bank.

We prepared a Budget for a Month in Split that analyzes all the necessary expenses.

How Many Days in Split Is Enough?

The number of days you should spend in Split depends on what you want to see and do. You would ideally need at least two days to fully explore the city’s historical center, including Diocletian’s Palace and its surrounding attractions. This will give you enough time to wander through the narrow streets, visit the museums, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Split.

Adding a couple more days to your itinerary would be ideal if you also want to explore the area, such as visiting nearby islands like Hvar and Brač or the picturesque town of Trogir. This will allow for day trips to these stunning locations and allow you to relax on the beautiful beaches or indulge in water sports activities.

A three- to four-day trip would be sufficient to get a taste of Split’s historical wonders. This timeframe allows for a well-rounded experience without rushing through the attractions or feeling overwhelmed by too many activities.

For a list of the best things to see and a suggested walking tour, check out our article “29 Best Things to See in Split.”

How To Get to Split?

Split has an airport with connecting flights all over Europe. You can get from Split Airport to the Old Town by bus, taxi, or private transfer.

To schedule a taxi or private transfer in advance, we recommend GetTransfer.