Nestled in the heart of Croatia’s Dalmatian region, Split, a charming coastal city, beckons as your gateway to the Adriatic wonders. As the second-largest city in Croatia, it offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Once merely a stepping stone to the islands, Split now emerges as a destination in its own right, boasting attractions beyond the iconic Diocletian Palace. Your experience here can be tailored to your preferences and the duration of your stay.
Why Choose Split for Your Sailing Journey
Split’s central location along the Eastern Adriatic coast makes it the ultimate launchpad for Croatian sailing escapades. From here, you can chart your course south or north, with countless sailing routes at your fingertips. Access couldn’t be easier, with various transportation options like planes, cars, ferries, trains, and buses readily available. When planning your sailing holiday from Split, be sure to set aside a few hours to explore this captivating city – it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.
EXPLORE SPLIT’S TREASURES
Diocletian Palace
Over 1,700 years ago, Emperor Diocletian constructed a palace on this very peninsula, transforming it into the thriving city of Split. This historical marvel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, continues to pulse with life. Here, you’ll find an array of shops, restaurants, cafes, museums, bars, and apartments, with around 3,000 residents calling this part of town home.
The Four Gates
Diocletian’s palace beckons through four gates, each named after a different metal: Bronze, Golden, Silver, and Iron. Each gate holds a unique charm and history..
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
This cathedral, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum, holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest Catholic cathedral still in its original structure. Don’t miss the opportunity to ascend the Bell Tower for breathtaking views of the city and central Dalmatian islands.
ST DOMINUS CATHEDRAL SPLIT, SOURCE: flickr.com
Peristyle
The colonnaded Roman courtyard, known as the Peristyle, serves as the central square of the palace. Once a place of worship for Emperor Diocletian, it now entices both locals and tourists for a relaxing coffee break on the square’s encircling steps. During the summer, its unique acoustics transform it into a venue for theater performances.:
Statue of Gregory of Nin (Grgur Ninski)
Imposing 6 feet tall statue created by famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović is placed just out of the Golden gate. Rub his thumb for good luck and realization of desires.
People’s Square or Piazza
Located just outside the Diocletian Palace’s walls, this is Split’s main square. Enter through the Iron Gate and discover the first town hall, surrounded by numerous restaurants and cafes offering outdoor seating.
PEOPLE’S SQUARE – PIAZZA, SPLIT, SOURCE: flickr.com
Fruit Square
Officially named the Square of Radić Brothers, this vibrant square was once a hub for local women selling fruits from nearby villages. Today, it bustles with cafes, restaurants, and shops, featuring a monument dedicated to Marko Marulić, the “father” of Croatian literature.
Prokurative
Large square situated west of Riva promenade with the fountain in front of it is officially called the Republic Square and it was designed as a replica of St.Mark’s Square in Venice. The square got its popular name Prokurative from the porticoes that it is surrounded with.
Varoš
Nestled at the base of Marjan hill, Varoš charms with its typical Mediterranean stone houses and winding, narrow streets. Once a haven for fishermen and farmers, today it offers modern tourist accommodations, upscale restaurants, and boutique shops.
MUSEUMS AND GALLERIES
Split City Museum
Explore the city’s evolution through centuries within the impressive Papalić Palace, crafted by native master Juraj Dalmatinac. The museum also features the works of Emanuel Vidović, a prominent 20th-century Split painter.
Archaeological Museum
Croatia’s oldest museum, founded in 1820, houses a captivating collection of archaeological artifacts, showcasing the region’s rich history from Greek and Roman times to the Medieval Ages and Early Christian period, many originating from Salona.
Mestrovic Gallery
Ivan Mestrovic is the best known modern sculptor of Croatia. What is now the gallery dedicated to him was his residence in the period from 1931 to 1939. The gallery houses many of his great pieces.
MEŠTROVIĆ GALLERY SPLIT, SOURCE: commons.wikimedia.org
Ethnographic Museum
Located adjacent to the Peristyle, this museum presents valuable ethnographic collections, offering insight into the lives of Split’s residents, islanders, and Dalmatian hinterland peasants.
THINGS TO DO DO
Shop On Green Market – “Pazar” & Fish Market – “Peškarija”
While the Green Market offers a wide array of fresh produce, olive oil, grappas, cheeses, and more, the Fish Market specializes in local fish and seafood. Stroll through these markets, even if you don’t plan to shop. The Green Market is an open-air market, while the Fish Market is housed in an architecturally captivating Secession-style building.
Climb The Marjan Hill
Known as “the lungs of Split,” Marjan Hill dominates the city’s center and waterfront. For the best views of Split and its surroundings, embark on a leisurely walk to “Prva Vidilica.”
VIEW FROM MARJAN SPLIT – VIDILICA , SOURCE: commons.wikimedia.com
Walk The Promenade – “Riva”
The palm-lined waterfront promenade, known as “Riva,” is the heartbeat of Split. It’s the backdrop for numerous events, from New Year’s Eve celebrations to protests, concerts, and more. Riva invites locals and visitors alike to stroll, socialize, and enjoy coffee at the many charming cafes lining the promenade.
ONE DAY TRIPS FROM SPLIT
TROGIR
This UNESCO-protected gem, located on an island, is connected to the mainland and Čiovo island by bridges. Explore well-preserved Renaissance, baroque, and Romanesque buildings, including St. Lawrence Cathedral, Cipiko Palace, Kamerlengo Castle, St. Mark’s Tower, and more. Don’t miss the historic City Gates: Land Gate and The Clock Tower, along with the City Loggia.
TROGIR, SOURCE: coomins.wikimedia.org
SOLIN – ANTIQUE SALONA RUINS
In Roman time Salona was the administrative centre of Roman province of Dalmatia. With 60.000 inhabitants it was the 4th largest town in Roman Empire destroyed in the 7th century by the attacks of Avars and Slavs. Today the remains of the monumental buildings like amphitheatre and forums, temples and thermae witness of those great times of Salona. Salona remains are located in the city of Solin.
ANTIQUE SALONA RUINS, SOURCE: commons.wikimedia.com
KLIS FORTRESS
Situated between the Mosor and Kozjak Mountains, Klis Fortress offers not only a glimpse into the past but also panoramic views of Split and the islands. Known for its role as a Game of Thrones filming location, this medieval fortress stands as an architectural marvel.
KLIS FORTRESS, SOURCE: commons.wikimedia.com
KRKA FALLS
One of Croatia’s most breathtaking national parks, Krka Falls, is a natural wonder. The Krka River flows through a picturesque canyon, creating roaring waterfalls along its 75 km course. Unlike other national parks, here you can swim in the river and beneath the cascading waters, including the famous Skradinski Buk waterfall.
KRKA FALLS NATIONAL PARK, SOURCE: pixabay.com
