Split Travel Guide
Split is yet another coastal city on the Dalmatian coast (Croatian Coast). It is one of the most visited cities in Croatia and is also the 2nd largest city in the country. The city was originally founded by the Greeks in the 3d or 2nd century BC but later become Roman where a palace was erected for the emperor. Following this many events happen which made this city a melting pot of history.
Over the years, the old buildings and architectures were kept in good conditions and newer ones were added.
Split is one of the top destinations in Croatia, it is easy to access, and its old town is just WONDERFUL. Plus, from there you can easily visit many of the most beautiful islands in Croatia.
We stayed 2 nights in Split and it was amazing. If we could we would have stayed another one.
Table of Contents
Mapping the day
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Getting there
Getting to Split is really easy, Split as the second biggest city has a well connected airport (Resnik). The distance between Split Airport and the city center is around 25km:
- Airport Shuttle bus: The ride takes around 30-40min and bring you to the Split Bus terminal near the old town. It will cost around 40 Kunas.
- Local bus: You can get a local bus from outside the airport (n°37 & 38). Cost will be 17 Kunas and the journey can take up to 1h.
- Taxi: The fastest and easiest way. It takes around 10min and coast around 250 Kunas.
Moving Around
Once you are in the city center everything is nearby and reachable on foot. You can explore most of the wonder of split just walking around and if you want to visit the island, there are plenty of boats, catamaran, and transfer Shuttle boast from the harbour.
When to Visit
The best time to visit Split is from April to October. Though it is good to know that July and August are the warmest month as well as the most crowded.
The best recommendation would be June or September when you get into the lower tourism season and out of the peak temperatures.
Things to do in Split
Marjan
On the west of the city, Marjan hill is one of the biggest hills in town and is covered mostly with pine trees. After climbing a few steps, up to 170m, you will get a beautiful view of the city. It is also a perfect place to reconnected with nature.
Republic Square
The republic square is a gallery like square on the west side of the old town. It is a point where the modern part of split with its main street enters the old town of split.
Voćni trg
Another super cute square in Split. It is here honestly just for its pictures. Mostly, what we preferred in Split was just strolling around its old streets. Especially in the morning when its was empty or at night to feel the vibes.
People's Square or Pjaca
The heart of the old city, dating from the 15th century, it featured interesting Renaissance, Venetian, and Gothic buildings built by the nobility. It is also a great place to eat at night. We would recommend there the restaurant called BEPA!.
Riva
You can either have breakfast there with a view on the port or simply walk along to enjoy the coast on your way to the harbour.
Harbour Split & Hvar
One of the things we did, was to do a 1-day trip to Hvar Town. An island nearby considered as the most beautiful of them all. You can take an early ferry and come back in the afternoon. You will be writing a dedicated article on this.
Diocletian's Palace
Once back in town after your day trip to Hvar or simply during your day exploring the city, stop at the Diocletian’s Palace, the really heart of the historical city. This palace is a well-reserved 4th century monument that was used as a residence for the Roman emperor and a large military camp.
Saint Domnius Cathedral
On the same place, you can admire the Saint Dominus cathedral with its beautiful bell tower. Unfortunately, you cannot visit this amazing structure built around 305 AD and turn into a cathedral around the the 7th century. It is considered as the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that remains in use in its original structure, without near-complete renovation at a later date.
Vestibul
Also known as St. Duje’s Cathedral which was in the past the Diocletian’s mausoleum. Dating back from 350, it is the oldest cathedral building in the world.
Peristil
Peristil Square is the original Roman court, where you can soak up the architectural majesty of old Split. You can sit there and enjoy a cup of coffee or a cold beer. And at night you can enjoy some music performances taking place in the square.
2-day Itinerary Split
This is our itinerary, it was a bit intense…
First night:
- Marjan
Day 1:
- Republic Square
- Voćni trg
- Riva
- People’s Square or Pjaca
- Hvar (town)
- Diocletian’s Palace
Ne trči pred rudo ‘Don’t run in front of the carriage’: Don’t jump the gun.
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