Split

Croatia's second-largest city and the heart of Dalmatia, famous for its UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, a stunning Roman structure built in 305 AD that now forms the old town centre. Split offers a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere with excellent beaches, restaurants, and ferry connections to nearby islands.

Things to do

• Explore Diocletian's Palace — Wander through the UNESCO-listed Roman palace built in 305 AD, now integrated into Split's old town with its underground chambers, temples, and narrow streets filled with shops and cafes.
• Climb Marjan Hill — Hike or walk up this verdant peninsula offering panoramic views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and surrounding islands, with scenic trails and several small chapels.
• Visit Peristyle Square — Stand in the heart of Diocletian's Palace at this columned courtyard, the ceremonial center of the ancient complex surrounded by historical buildings and atmospheric evening gatherings.
• Day trip to Hvar Island — Take a ferry from Split's port to this lavender-covered island known for its vibrant nightlife, historic town, and pebble beaches.
• Swim at Bačvice Beach — Cool off at this popular crescent-shaped pebble beach just east of the old town, famous for the traditional game of picigin played in shallow waters.
• Tour the Cathedral of Saint Domnius — Visit this remarkable structure within the palace complex, one of Europe's oldest cathedrals, originally built as Diocletian's mausoleum in the 4th century.

Food to try

• Dalmatian Pašta — Fresh handmade pasta typically served with local seafood, olive oil, and herbs, representing the region's culinary traditions.
• Brodet — A traditional Dalmatian fish stew made with multiple types of fresh seafood, tomatoes, and white wine, served with polenta or crusty bread.
• Crni Rižot — Black risotto made with cuttlefish ink that creates a striking dark color, combined with fresh cuttlefish pieces and seafood stock.
• Pršut sa Mlincima — Dalmatian air-dried ham served with mlinc, a thin crepe-like pastry, a quintessential local appetizer found in waterfront restaurants.
• Ušti od Bakala — Split's famous dried cod ear soup, a hearty traditional dish that reflects the city's fishing heritage and is typically eaten as a starter.
• Lokalni Vinski Barovi Experience — Visit a traditional wine bar in the old town to sample local Dalmatian wines like Plavac Mali and Posip paired with cheese and charcuterie.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace the Afternoon Passeggiata — Join locals for the evening stroll (passeggiata) along the Riva waterfront promenade from late afternoon to sunset, a cherished social custom.
• Dress Respectfully in Religious Sites — Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and other churches within the palace complex, as these remain active places of worship.
• Learn Basic Dalmatian Greetings — A simple 'Dobar dan' (good day) or 'Hvala' (thank you) in Croatian goes a long way with locals and is appreciated in small shops and restaurants.
• Visit Markets Early — The Green Market (Pazar) is most vibrant in early morning when vendors sell fresh produce and local specialties; by noon many stalls close.

Nearby

• Trogir — 15 km
• Brač Island — 33 km
• Šolta Island — 34 km
• Omiš — 39 km