Ancient Roman palace meets vibrant Adriatic coastal city
Split is Croatia's second-largest city, built directly into and around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, a sprawling Roman complex constructed in the 4th century AD. Today, thousands of residents live and work within the palace walls, making it one of the most uniquely inhabited ancient monuments in the world.
Beyond the palace, Split offers a lively waterfront promenade called the Riva, a charming old town full of bars and restaurants, and easy ferry connections to nearby islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis. The city balances authentic Dalmatian culture with growing tourism infrastructure, giving visitors a genuinely local feel alongside modern comforts.
- •Diocletian's Palace — remarkably intact Roman emperor's retirement complex still bustling with life
- •Cathedral of Saint Domnius — a converted Roman mausoleum and one of the world's oldest cathedrals
- •Riva Promenade — palm-lined seafront walkway ideal for people-watching and café stops
- •Meštrović Gallery — impressive collection of sculptor Ivan Meštrović's monumental works
- •Marjan Hill — forested park offering panoramic views over the city and Adriatic
- •Poljud Stadium and Park — nearby green space with a striking brutalist landmark
Getting around: Split's old town is compact and best explored on foot. Local city buses cover the broader urban area affordably, and taxis are widely available, including app-based services like Bolt. Ferries and catamarans depart regularly from the main port to surrounding islands and coastal towns. Car rentals are practical for exploring the Dalmatian hinterland but unnecessary within the city center.
Best time: Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) offer warm weather, manageable crowds, and lower prices compared to the peak July–August summer season.
Local food: Try peka (slow-roasted lamb or octopus under a bell), fresh grilled fish, pašticada beef stew, and local Dalmatian wines paired with olive oil from nearby islands.
This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.