Split is one of those cities you should not miss when visiting Croatia. Sandwiched by the Mosor mountain range and the Adriatic Sea, it’s Croatia’s second-largest city. Split is also the gateway to the beautiful islands in Dalmatia, such as Brac, Hvar, and Korcula.
Below, check out our list of the best things to do in Split.
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Walk around the Historic City
Split is a gorgeous city home to many historical sights. Walking around the city will take you to the Old Town, where you’ll find the famous Diocletian Palace. The historic town is also home to great restaurants, cosy cafes, and interesting shops. After walking around, grab a seat at one of the cafes by Republic Square. Order a cup of coffee and spend the rest of the day people-watching.
Head to the Beaches
Like most of Croatia, Split is home to some beautiful beaches. But what’s unique about Split is that the beaches are far from the city centre. Although the city lies on the coast, much of its waterfront serves as a port. If you want to swim at the beach, you must venture outside the city.
The Kasjuni is one of the best beaches worth a visit in Split. It lies at the base of Marjan Hill and has the best views. You can also take a day trip to the nearby islands of Split, where you’ll find quieter and more secluded beaches.
Eat Fresh Seafood
Foodies will find Split a wonderful place to visit, as it’s home to various excellent restaurants serving delectable and fresh seafood prepared using the finest, locally sourced ingredients. One of these restaurants is Konoba Kod Joze, famous for its authentic Dalmatian dishes. What’s great about the restaurant is that its menu changes regularly depending on the day’s catch. It’s outside the Old Town, but only a 5-minute walk from the Diocletian Palace.
Drink at the Harbour
The harbour of Split is one of the most beautiful places in the city. It has wide walkways lined with palm trees and magnificent buildings. It’s a pedestrian-friendly place and a great spot to enjoy a relaxing stroll. The harbour is also home to excellent cafes where you can indulge in refreshing drinks. And if you want to explore nearby islands, hop on a boat to take a luxury cruising tour to the island of your choice.
See Diocletian’s Palace
Your trip to Split won’t be complete without seeing the Diocletian Palace, one of Croatia’s most popular attractions. Named after the Roman Emperor Diocletian, the palace complex was built in 305 AD in honour of the emperor and is now one of the world’s best-preserved Roman architectural monuments. As you stroll through the palace complex, you’ll find many other fascinating sights, such as the Temple of Jupiter, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Iron Gate.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Diocletian Palace has many remarkable details, and you can easily spend the entire day roaming around the complex. You will also find an array of cafes, bars, and restaurants, where you can relax in between exploring.