Imagine a place where ancient monuments intertwine with the azure coast of the Adriatic Sea, and the smell of fresh seafood mixes with the aroma of lavender and the sounds of street musicians. Split – the second largest city in Croatia, is a unique combination of history, Mediterranean climate and modern energy. If you are planning a vacation that will stay in your memory for a long time, Split should be at the top of your list.
A Brief Introduction to History
Split is a city with an impressive past, dating back over 1700 years. It was founded as a Roman settlement in the 3rd century AD, when Emperor Diocletian decided to build his monumental residence here – Diocletian’s Palace. Interestingly, it is not a classic monument “to visit” – the palace is a living part of the city, where people still live, shops, restaurants and cafes operate.
It is this palace that made Split one of the most important points on the UNESCO map. Walking through its narrow streets, you can feel like a time traveler – from ancient times, through the Middle Ages, to the present day.
Climate and nature – ideal conditions for relaxation
Split is located on the central coast of Croatia, in the Dalmatia region. The Mediterranean climate makes the summers hot and dry and the winters mild. It is an ideal place for sun lovers – you can count on up to 2,700 hours of sunshine per year!
The city is surrounded by hills and green areas. The most famous of them is Marjan Hill – the green lungs of Split. Marjan is a place that is often visited by locals and tourists, ideal for hiking, jogging, cycling, as well as romantic walks at sunset with a panorama of the Adriatic and nearby islands.
Tourist attractions – what is worth seeing?
Diocletian’s Palace
It is impossible to talk about Split without starting with its biggest attraction – Diocletian’s Palace. It is not just ruins, but the authentic heart of the city. Here you will find underground corridors, ancient columns, medieval chapels, as well as luxurious restaurants and small art galleries. Visit the Peristyle – the main courtyard of the palace, where concerts and performances are held in the evenings.
Cathedral of St. Domnius
The cathedral, built on the site of the former Diocletian’s mausoleum, is one of the oldest active Catholic churches in the world. It is worth climbing its bell tower – the panorama of the city and its surroundings is breathtaking.
Riva – seaside promenade
It is a favorite meeting place for locals and tourists. A walk along the Riva is a real pleasure – cafes with a sea view, palm trees, boats and catamarans give this place a unique, holiday atmosphere.
Varoš and Matejuška
The Varoš district is full of atmospheric streets with stone houses, green shutters and flowers on the balconies. Matejuška is an old fishing quay where you can meet local fishermen, sit with a bottle of wine and watch the sunset.
Museums and galleries
Split is also about culture – it is worth visiting the Archaeological Museum, the Meštrović Gallery (dedicated to the greatest Croatian sculptor), and the City Museum located in the Gothic Papała Palace.
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Cuisine – a taste of Dalmatia
Split’s cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean traditions with Balkan and Italian influences. What is a must-try?
- Peka – a meat or seafood dish baked under a cast iron cover,
- Grilled fish – most often freshly caught gilt-head bream, sea bass or sardines,
- Soparnik – rodzajSoparnik – a type of baked pancake with blitz (a leafy vegetable similar to spinach),
- Pašticada – slowly stewed beef in wine sauce with dumplings.
Add a glass of local Plavac Mali wine or cold rakija for a good start to dinner.
Nightlife and festivals
Split is a city that never sleeps. In the summer, there are numerous concerts, festivals and outdoor events. The Ultra Europe Festival is particularly popular – one of the largest electronic music festivals in the world, which attracts thousands of fans from all over the world every year.
Evenings in Split can also be spent more quietly – in one of the many atmospheric pubs with live music, with wine and tapas in street gardens, or walking along the promenade in the moonlight.
The area around Split – perfect for day trips
Split is a great base for exploring Dalmatia. Nearby are:
- Hvar Island – famous for its lavender, vineyards and luxury resorts,
- TroTrogir – a town-museum listed on the UNESCO list, only 30 minutes drive from Split,
- Krka National Park – with impressive waterfalls and swimming opportunities,
- Omiš – a city of pirates and a paradise for fans of extreme sports.
Gallery
- Split city
- Trogir city
- Waterfalls on the Krka River
- Omis city
Practical tips
- Access: Split has an airport (SPU), well connected with Poland and other European countries. You can also get there by ferry, bus or train.
- Currency: Kuna has been replaced by the euro – from 2023 Croatia joined the eurozone.
- Language: Croatian, but in tourist places you can easily communicate in English.
- Best time to go: May to October – although peak season is July and August, June and September are much quieter and just as sunny.
Conclusions
Split is a city that can charm everyone – regardless of whether you are looking for historical monuments, relaxation on the beach, Mediterranean cuisine or inspiring views. It is a place where history lives alongside modernity, and every corner hides a story worth discovering.
It is not without reason that many tourists who have visited Split at least once, come back here again – in love with its atmosphere, warm people and unforgettable climate. So if you are planning your next vacation, do yourself a favor and let Split charm you. It could be the beginning of a beautiful adventure – and a lifelong love.