Split

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Split

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.

The City

Split is the second largest city in Croatia. In the summer, it is a dynamic and vibrant holiday resort. Its pulsating heart is the compact Old Town, composed of orderly streets and monuments of the imposing Roman emperor's abode. Just a stone's throw away from the Palace, Riva, the evocative seafront promenade, runs parallel to the city in a hub of activities that buzzes with life from the early hours — replete with shops, cafes and bars, the seafront boardwalk is where both locals and tourists congregate day and night, mingling and mixing. If the city centre and the crowded beaches have become a major draw for tourists, Split peninsula is where serenity reign supreme and the backdrop of Mediterranean flora shapes the atmosphere.

Tours & Activities

You already know that most travellers come to Split to see the Old Town and take the sun by the Adriatic Sea. By all means, take it slow and find peace on among the narrow streets and along the seafront. Once you have found your zen, why not opt in for a dose of excitement and perhaps even leave your comfort zone — pick one of the many tours to make your trip memorable. You time in Split will never be boring!

Do & See

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.

Dining

Combining the cornerstones of the Dalmatian cuisine with the famously healthy Mediterranean culinary traditions, Split's culinary heritage is a perfectly balanced blend of authentic flavours. The proximity to the Adriatic Sea makes Split a destination where sampling seafood dishes is a must. Some of Split’s best restaurants can be found outskirt of the Old Town as well as inside of the Old Town, boasting a fine array of eateries ranging from down-to-earth traditional taverns to upscale restaurants serving fusion cuisine.

Cafes

Worry not if you can't image life without coffee — Split will take good care of you. The narrow cobbled streets and ancient squares are dotted with quaint cafes. Cafeterias are seen as gathering points in the historical Split and coffee (Kava) is rather strong to keep you going. The trendy Riva with its sweeping views of the sea is certainly a favourite among-coffee lover. Treat yourself to the atmospheric ambiance and delicious coffee, where the lively crowd passes by leisurely and the marine breeze tickles your nostrils. The picturesque alleys that run throughout the town are also full of cosy cafeterias, perfectly embodying the laid-back lifestyle of the Croatians.

Bars & Nightlife

Split is one of the best destinations in Croatia when it comes to nightlife: discover hidden bars and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while socialising, having a couple of drinks, dancing and overall having a great time. The city breathes with the party spirit wherever you go. Start the night in the trendy Riva and as the night goes on migrate to the Old Town. Get a late dinner at one of the many restaurants. Check out Academia Club Ghetto located inside the Diocletian's Palace — it is known as one the best clubs in the country. Split was put on the map as a party town because of the Ultra Europe festival held on stadium Poljud in July. However, the majority of the exciting new clubbing spots keep their doors open off-season. Bars along the Bačvice beachside also stay busy way past midnight over the summer.

Shopping

Split has many shops, department stores and a range of small authentic art galleries, souvenir and antique shops in the alleys within the walls of the Palace. In the middle of summer these tiny streets are covered by the shady coolness of the stone walls, making a lengthy shopping trip a pleasure. The spooky basement of the Palace itself has turned into a colourful mixture of art and souvenir stalls.

Tourist Information