Split is the second largest city in Croatia. It is located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea. The city is surrounded by mountains and the sea. It is a city with the mixture of ancient and modern, blended in a perfect symbiosis.
Split is a Mediterranean city with significant historical sites, amazing landscape and lively nightlife. It is a vibrant and charming city that attracts thousands of tourists through the whole year. With its unique attractions, it’s no wonder people choose Split even for a short weekend break.
If you want to go sightseeing there are plenty of historical sites, museums, and galleries. For an active weekend, you can choose Marjan Hill for walking, hiking, riding a bike or jogging. From the hill, you will have a great view of the city for taking some memorable photos.
There are also spectacular beaches especially on the south side of the Marjan or you can choose Bacvice beach. Bacvice beach is sandy and the most popular beach in the city. Plus the beach is only a couple of minutes of walk from the Old Town.
Things to do and see
Diocletian’s Palace
The Palace was built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian who chooses Split to build his retirement residence. Complex dates from the 4th century and yet is still preserved. The building is a combination of a luxury villa and a Roman military camp. Today, Diocletian’s Palace is the heart of the city. There are numerous shops, restaurants, and apartments in this area.
St. Domnius Cathedral
This beautiful octagonal cathedral was actually a mausoleum for Diocletian. The structure was built in 305 AD and haven’t changed or renovated since then. This makes it a second oldest structure used for Christian Cathedral. Bell Tower is a tourist attraction because it gives a great view of the Old City.
Gregory of Nin statue
Gregory of Nin was a medieval Croatian bishop who fought for the rights of using the Croatian language. His imposing statue can be found outside of the North gate of the Diocletian’s palace. Author of the statue is Ivan Mestrovic, a renowned Croatian sculpturist, and architect. What makes this statue special is the fact that locals believe that rubbing the statue toe brings luck.
Riva Promenade
The waterfront Riva is very specific site and the most popular among the locals. It’s a great place for a walk, or just sit and relax with a drink. Riva stands in front of the Diocletian’s palace, and it gives a great view across the harbor all to the nearest islands. The promenade is also a main public square where all kinds of social events are organized.
Marjan Hill
Marjan hill is on the peninsula of the city of Split. It is covered in dense pine trees and it represents the lungs of the city. Marjan is a perfect place to escape the buzzing Split and it also has a lot to offer. There are small churches for sightseeing, hermitage caves, city zoo, and of course spectacular view from the top of the hill.
Kliss Fortress
It is a medieval fortress situated above the Klis village 12km from Split. The fortress was controlling the entrance to the city of Split. It has a small museum inside with swords, costumes, and history of the fortress. However, the fortress became the most popular to the visitors because of the Game of Thrones TV show.
Jupiter’s Temple
The temple of Jupiter is located in the western part of the Diocletian’s palace. It was built to honor the cult of Jupiter. Although a fairly small building it is perfectly preserved from the inside and outside. It has beautiful reliefs and very decorative motifs. In front of the temple is black granite sphinx which looks like a guard of the temple. The temple was converted to baptistery during the late Antiquity and Middle Ages.
Island Hvar
If you have more than two days, then a one-day trip to island Hvar will be your next destination. Split’s transfer connection to the Adriatic islands and nearby cities makes him an important transport center for the region. Why island Hvar? Island Hvar is an island of a true natural beauty. With beautiful lavender fields, olive trees, pine forests, and vineyards make it a truly breathtaking landscape you must see. Island Hvar is the sunniest island in the country (2724 sunniest hours per year) and has the most beautiful secluded beaches and coves. You can explore the small towns on the island or enjoy in one of the most popular wine tours in Croatia.
Where to go
- Take a day trip to Hvar Island
- Visit Mestrovic Art Gallery
- Take a Split culinary or wine tasting tour
- Take a Game of Thrones tour in Split