Nestled along the stunning Dalmatian coast, Split, Croatia, is a captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant Mediterranean culture. Known for its UNESCO-listed Old Town and exquisite beaches, this charming city offers a multitude of experiences. Make the most of your time by immersing yourself in its charm and creating unforgettable memories along the way. Check out these 10 cool things to do in Split, Croatia.
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Explore Diocletian’s Palace
Begin your adventure in Split with a visit to Diocletian’s Palace, a marvel of Roman architecture dating back to the 4th century. Diocletian was the Roman emperor at the end of the 3rd century AD. He built the palace in his home town of Split and after ruling 20 years, at age 60, he retired there to live his days in peace.
The palace isn’t a single structure as we think of a palace today, but rather a collection of structures that take up about half of Old Town Split. Wander through the labyrinthine streets and marvel at the ancient beauty that’s seamlessly integrated with modern life. You could easily spend a full day here if you checked out every little nook and cranny of this amazing complex.
Climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral
Ascend the 57-meter-high bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, located within Diocletian’s Palace. This is easier said than done as these steps are STEEEEEEEEP (about knee-high)! But, the panoramic view of Split and the Adriatic Sea from this vantage point is nothing short of breathtaking, making the climb worth your effort. That said, don’t be surprised when shorter folks, like me, have to come down on their bottom!
People-Watch on Riva Promenade
Stroll along the sun-soaked Riva Promenade, lined with charming cafes and eateries. This is the ideal place to sit, relax, and indulge in some people-watching as locals and visitors alike go about their day. The promenade is one of the most popular areas of the city. It runs along the seafront the entire length of Old Town. Cruise visitors will happily skip along this area in the mornings, eager to hit the city. But after a long day of seeing the sites, they are much more inclined to take it easy and soak in the charm of the area upon returning to the ship.
Discover Split’s Museums
Delve into Split’s rich history by visiting its museums. Explore the Archaeological Museum, which houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, or the Split City Museum to gain insights into the city’s past.
Game of Thrones fans will love the GOT Museum, and may even enjoy a GOT tour while visiting the city. The museum contains original costumes and props. It is really well done and a great break from the heat during the summer months. This can be a fun way to discover Split’s rich fictional history while in the city.
Enjoy a Seafood Feast
Savor a delectable seafood feast at one of Old Town’s many restaurants. Try locally caught fish, seafood risotto, or black cuttlefish risotto—the taste of the Adriatic on your plate. Wonderful restaurants can be found throughout Old Town and along the Riva Promenade. If you like a little education over your meal, consider this great Split History and Gastro Tour.
Discover the Adriatic Coast
For water enthusiasts, paddleboarding or kayaking in the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea is a must. Several rental shops in Split offer equipment for exploring the coastline and nearby coves. There are also several great boat and water sport tours from Split.
Sun worshippers should head to Bacvice Beach, located just a short walk from the city center. This sandy beach is a favorite among locals and visitors for its shallow waters. It is ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It is easy to combine Old Town sightseeing with a few hours at Bacvice Beach.
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of tourists, check out Bene Beach, located on the Marjan Peninsula. This tranquil spot is ideal for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
Conquer the Summit of Marjan Hill
Hikers will enjoy exploring Marjan Hill, a lush green oasis overlooking Split. Follow the winding paths through pine forests and discover hidden chapels along the way. The summit offers panoramic views that are perfect for photos.
Explore the Subterranean World of Split
Venture beneath the city’s surface to explore the Split Underground. This fascinating network of tunnels and chambers are stark and haunting. Game of Thrones fans will recognize the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace as the place where Khaleesi imprisoned her dragons. And you will quickly see why these endless chambers were the perfect place to hold them captive. Guided tours of the cellars provide a glimpse into the history of these underground passages.
Stroll through Split’s Green Market
Experience the vibrant local culture by strolling through Split’s Green Market (Pazar). This bustling marketplace is where locals come to buy fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and traditional Croatian delicacies. Find a bench and watch local life at its most authentic.
You will also find stalls for soft goods such as clothing, tablecloths, and other fun items along the adjoining streets. This is where you will find the best hand-crafted works of artisans and is the perfect place to pick up great souvenirs.
Attend a Live Performance at Peristyle Square
Peristyle Square within Diocletian’s Palace is a bustling place full of tourists from sun-up to sun-down. You might also find charming actors is period costumes happy to take a photo with you for a small tip.
But as the crowds thin toward the close of the day, grab a seat along the steps to enjoy a live performance. The open-air space often hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and cultural events, providing an enchanting end to your day.
Are You Ready To Check Out Split, Croatia?
Split, Croatia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. It is easy to visit from nearby European countries and is quickly becoming a favorite cruise port along the Adriatic Coast.
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