Summary
Split, located on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, presents itself as a city seemingly untouched by time. The ancient center offers a unique experience, featuring a district wholly occupied by an expansive Roman palace, resilient after 1,700 years. Throughout the ages, this architectural marvel has been preserved and subsequently incorporated into newer edifices, such as St. Duje’s Cathedral, which has at its core a 4th-century mausoleum.
You might recognize some of Split’s locations from various television series, making it easy to forget that attractions like Klis Fortress and the beautiful town of Trogir exist in reality. Below, we delve into the most notable activities in Split:
1. Diocletian’s Palace
Diocletian’s Palace is central to the city’s historic landscape. It is a remarkably preserved 4th-century compound that merges Diocletian’s opulent retirement villa with the remnants of a substantial military encampment. Given its vast expanse, it resembles a citadel more than a palace, revealing surprises at every turn. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, visitors can walk the original Roman streets, including the decumanus and cardo with their authentic paving stones. Unsurprisingly, scenes from Game of Thrones have been filmed in this breathtaking location.
2. Historic Split
To fully appreciate the charm of the old city, allocate several hours for exploration, preferably on foot. Begin at Pjaca Square, where Split’s old town hall overlooks an elegant plaza adorned with glossy marble tiles and outdoor cafés. Additionally, Fruit Square is a vital stop—named after the long-established market held there—showcasing exquisite Renaissance architecture from Split’s Venetian period. To observe daily life in Split, visit Marmont Street, which leads down to the waterfront flanked by shops, cafés, and restaurants.
3. St. Duje’s Cathedral
The captivating aspect of Split’s architecture lies in the repurposing of ancient structures. A prime example is St. Duje’s Cathedral, which was originally Diocletian’s mausoleum. The core of this architectural marvel dates back to 350 AD, establishing St. Duje’s as one of the oldest cathedrals globally. It is fascinating to see how Roman architectural elements, including the original ring of 24 supporting columns, coexist with features characteristic of a Catholic place of worship. Visitors should also take a moment to admire the cathedral’s Romanesque wooden doors, preserved in their original state since 1200.
4. Peristil Square
Peristil Square serves as the original Roman court, where visitors can appreciate the architectural splendor of ancient Split. It provides a dramatic backdrop for leisurely afternoon coffees. Diocletian selected this plaza for public appearances, and his followers would pay their respects by prostrating before him. The square also features two ancient Egyptian sphinxes, approximately 3,500 years old, transported to the city by Diocletian himself. The remarkable stone monuments in the square provide excellent acoustics, allowing for opera or theatre performances during the summer.
5. Marjan
Located just west of the city, this steep hill rises 170 meters and is adorned with cypress and Mediterranean pine trees. It offers an ideal setting for those seeking fresh air and physical activity or wishing to explore some of Split’s lesser-known landmarks. Notably, the Jewish cemetery on the eastern slope holds tombstones that remain legible, some dating back to the 1700s. There are also two churches located on the hill: St. Nicholas from the 1200s and St. Jerome from the 1400s, featuring a Renaissance altarpiece sculpted by Andrea Alessi.
6. Campanile
Adjacent to the cathedral, Split’s bell tower stands as an iconic structure, stretching six stories high and tapering elegantly as one ascends. Visitors will experience exposure to the elements while ascending, allowing them to view the tower’s paired arched windows, a typical feature of Romanesque design that has remained largely unchanged since the 1000s. At the summit, breathtaking views of the Split skyline and the Adriatic Sea await, making the ascent—and a nominal entrance fee—well worth the effort.
7. Statue of Grgur Ninski
The statue situated outside the Golden Gate is significant not only for its subject but also for its creator. Ivan Meštrović, the sculptor, achieved great acclaim in his field and continued his illustrious career in America following the rise of communism, creating widely appreciated public works. Grgur Ninski, on the other hand, was a 10th-century bishop and Croatian icon who advocated for conducting religious services in the Croatian language, defying papal authority, and fostering Christian values in the region. Visitors often rub Ninski’s prominent toe for good fortune; years of interaction have rendered this small bronze protrusion shiny.
8. Klis Fortress
As you arrive at this fortress perched on a hilltop pass, its significance becomes evident—it has also been featured in Game of Thrones. Klis Fortress overlooks the terraced hills of its namesake town and is encircled by towering pale grey cliffs. This unforgettable sight is steeped in history, having been the focal point of conflict for over two millennia. Initially built by the ancient Illyrians, Klis became the residence of Croatian kings throughout the medieval era. During the Ottoman Wars, control of this stronghold, situated 10 kilometers northeast of Split, determined regional dominance.
9. Krka National Park
Located about an hour from Split, this national park traces the course of the Krka River. The stunning Stradinski Buk attracts numerous visitors who come to witness its impressive size: a large natural pool measuring 400 by 100 meters, featuring travertine waterfalls at one end and cascades at the other. The area boasts 17 waterfalls, with the tallest reaching nearly 50 meters. Visitors often find themselves enchanted by the lush surroundings and the glimmer of sunlight dancing on the water’s surface. Additionally, time should be set aside for the cascades at Roški Slap and Visovac Island, home to a 15th-century monastery.
10. Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments
The Archaeological Monument Museum serves as a repository for around 20,000 pieces from historical landmarks in the Split vicinity, although only a quarter are currently on display. The majority of these artifacts, originating from medieval times, encompass jewelry, weaponry, armor, and domestic items. Particularly noteworthy are the stone inscriptions, reliefs, and carvings that chronicle the narratives of Croatian kings, nobility, and clergy from the 800s to the 1100s.
11. Ivan Meštrović Gallery
For those interested in exploring the legacy of one of Croatia’s most distinguished artists—as the sculptor of the Grgur Ninski statue—visiting this museum is an enriching experience. It houses the largest collection of Meštrović’s work, featuring nearly 200 sculptures, along with sketches, furniture, and architectural designs. The gallery occupies a structure built in the 1930s, originally designed by the artist as his residence, and reopened in 1998 after restoration following the Yugoslav War. In addition to the indoor exhibitions, an expansive outdoor sculpture garden invites leisurely exploration.
12. Salona
Just a short bus ride from Split’s center, Salona was once the Roman Empire’s most prominent city in the Balkans, with a peak population of 60,000. Although it was sacked and abandoned in the 600s, the archaeological park offers a captivating experience, preserving vital fragments of its architectural lineage. The most notable remnant is the amphitheater, capable of hosting 18,000 spectators. Visitors can navigate the perimeter and appreciate how the terraced seating integrates harmoniously with the hillside it occupies.
13. Trogir
Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Trogir remains remarkably similar to its medieval apex. It is difficult not to fall in love with Trogir, known for its exceptional preservation of Romanesque and Gothic architecture across Europe. Its geographical placement enhances its allure, as this small, fortified island is connected to the mainland by a bridge. Trogir’s 15th-century fortifications encompass a labyrinth of narrow streets, where visitors will encounter buildings that have remained unchanged since the 1200s, including a stunning 13th-century cathedral and ten historical churches.
14. Charter a Boat
The coastal areas of Croatia, particularly around Split, boast a remarkable natural landscape. Here, islands serve to shield the crystal-clear waters, creating tranquil and transparent shallows. The diverse range of offshore formations, along with numerous secluded coves suitable for anchorage, render Split an exceptional location for chartering a yacht or motorboat, whether one prefers a bareboat option or a skippered service. The charter market is bustling, with agencies competing to provide affordable rentals. Additionally, the marina features shops for stocking your vessel with provisions, allowing you to embark on an exciting maritime journey.
15. A Day Next to the Adriatic
The vibrant culture in Split often overshadows its appeal as a seaside destination. Fortunately, access to beach opportunities is conveniently located within the city itself. At the base of Marjan Hill, visitors will discover a series of beautiful natural beaches bordered by fragrant pine forests. For families, Stobrec, situated slightly east of Split, features a charming horseshoe-shaped bay with shallow waters safe for children. Furthermore, Bacvice Beach, located in a southeastern suburb of Split, offers an extensive sandy shoreline alongside sunshade rentals and a wealth of waterfront facilities.
