Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering, “Is Split worth visiting?” You’ve heard a lot of stories about the second-largest city in Croatia, but you’re still not sure whether to put it on your itinerary. Well, this article might help since we are going to present you with a few reasons why you should consider visiting Split.
Our answer would be, yes, Split is a place worth visiting, and there is a good reason why so many people traveling to Croatia decide to do so. Split offers something for everyone, and we’re sure that you’ll find at least one thing that attracts you on the list we’re going to present below. We live just in the middle between Split and Dubrovnik, and each year we travel to Split many times because of our photography work.
The thing we love about Split is its overall Mediterranean vibe, relaxed way of living, and peaceful state of mind. Of course, there is history and stunning nature too, but more about it later in this article. Here’s everything you need to know about why Split is worth your time and why you should consider visiting it on your journey through Croatia.
1. Diocletian’s Palace: A Living UNESCO Treasure We are starting this list of the reasons why you should consider visiting Split with the most famous historical building located in the largest city in Dalmatia. Located at the center of Split lies the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace , one of the most preserved Roman buildings in the world. This palace was built in the 4th century by the Roman emperor Diocletian. This building is the core of modern Split life, and within its walls you’ll find:
Old Roman temples, courtyards, and underground cellars
Local cafes and restaurants that are secluded in narrow alleys
Boutique shops and different art galleries
2. The Beautiful Riva Promenade Waterfront promenade in Split, also known as the Riva , is the most vibrant place in the city. It’s full of palm trees, cafes, restaurants of all kinds, and harbor views. Riva in Split is the perfect place to:
Enjoy a coffee and observe life in Split. Watch the ferries and other boats come and go, and people walk this promenade
Take a sunset walk with beautiful views
Enjoy the unique atmosphere of Split
3. Beaches Within Reach If you want to escape the heat, which can get very intense during the summer months in Split, you don’t have to go far for a swim. Some of the best urban beaches in Croatia are located not so far away from the city centre:
Bačvice Beach : The most famous beach in Split. Known for shallow waters and the local beach game called “picigin”Firule and Trstenik Beaches : Perfect if you’re looking for a more relaxed atmosphere
4. Gateway to the Islands When it comes to island hopping in Croatia, Split is one of the best places for such adventures. Some of the most famous islands in Croatia are located not so far away from Split, and this city is the perfect starting point to all of them. You have many options when it comes to island hopping from Split, you can either join one of the many day trips that visit these islands or take a ferry from the Split ferry port.
Hvar, Brač, Šolta, and Vis are just a short ferry ride away from Split (ok, reaching Vis will take a bit longer since it’s one of the most remote islands in Croatia)Many catamarans and ferries depart daily from the Split harbor
5. Local Markets and Mediterranean Life Many say that the Split is the true Mediterranean location in Dalmatia. And it really does have that specific relaxed vibe. So if you’re looking to taste the true Mediterranean life, at least for a day, head to Split. For an even more authentic experience, eat like a local and visit the local markets in Split:
Pazar Market : A vibrant outdoor market with fresh local products. Located near Diocletian’s PalaceFish Market : Similar to Pazar, but with fish. Split is a city on the Adriatic Sea, so you know that it’s only fresh fish you’ll find here
6. Nature and Outdoor Activities Now this is something we love about Split since we are outdoor enthusiasts and we used to run our own adventure travel agency in Croatia. Split is an urban area, so all of these adventures are located either just outside the city or not so far away. Even the Omiš, the place often called the adventure capital of Croatia, is located just a 30-40 minute drive from Split. There are also some great adventures you can do in Split, too, and kayaking is one of our favorites.
Marjan Hill : A forest park with many panoramic viewpoints and nice walking trails. Marjan is also known as the lungs of SplitKayaking, cycling, and boat tours are among the best adventure activities you can tryDay trips to Krka National Park or Cetina River Canyon are also a great idea if you’re staying in Split
Town of Omiš is located nearby, and it’s a great place for more adventurous activities such as rafting, ziplines, canyoning, and via ferrata ascents
7. Culture, Festivals, and Nightlife Finally, Split is very famous for its festivals and vibrant nightlife. These festivals are being organized throughout the whole year, but peak in the summer months.
Split Summer Festival has many open-air concerts and theater plays in historical settingsThe Croatian National Theater in Split has many performances throughout the whole year
Regarding nightlife, there’s everything from wine bars to beach clubs
8. Year-Round Destination Even though most visitors come to Croatia in summer, Split is a great year-round destination . Visiting in the off-season months usually means more pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The great thing with Split is the fact that many seasonal tours and restaurants start working sooner than in many other tourist destinations in Croatia.
Final Thoughts: Is Split Worth Visiting? With all this being said, what do you think, is Split worth visiting? We believe it is, at least for a day. Split offers great content for even a longer stay, but if you already have your itinerary planned and have very limited time, then visit Split only for a day, or even for just a few hours. Take a walk through the old part of Split, sit in one of the cafes, and experience the authentic Mediterranean.
Enjoy your time in Split!
