Exploring the Jewel of the Adriatic Coast, Split

Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is a prime gateway to the alluring Dalmatian Islands. This ancient urban hub brims with history and cultural richness, making it an exceptional launchpad for Croatian adventures. Renowned for its picturesque Old Town waterfront, stunning beaches, and the imposing Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 4th century, Split offers a vibrant mix of shops, eateries, and historic landmarks within its white stone walls.

Despite often being overlooked as merely a transit point before Adriatic cruises, Split deserves dedicated exploration to uncover its captivating depths. Split, an ancient city with Greek origins, rose to strategic importance across Eastern Europe, leading Roman Emperor Diocletian to build an extravagant palace there in the 3rd century. This palatial complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, served as Diocletian's residence for the final years of his life.

Over the centuries, Split was ruled by various powers, including the Venetians, Austrians, and French, though it also experienced periods of autonomy. Today, the city is renowned for its exceptionally well-preserved Roman architecture, drawing millions of visitors to its historic Old Town, a captivating blend of ancient grandeur and modern vibrancy. Split has seen a surge in direct flights from budget European carriers in recent years. Travel from most European cities is quick, with 1-4 hour flight times.

International visitors typically fly into Zagreb Airport, then take a connecting flight or bus to Split. Split Airport, Croatia's third-busiest, is located 20km west of the city of Kaštel Štafilić. A 45-minute, shuttle bus connects the airport to Split's historic Old Town and port, just steps from the central bus station.

Exploring Split

• Bačvice Beach, Split's central and popular seaside spot, offers sun-soaking and the unique Dalmatian sport of picigin - a hand-based ball game. Beachfront cafes, bars, and eateries provide refreshments amid scenic views. By night, the once-tranquil beach comes alive with bars and clubs drawing partygoers. Bačvice caters to all, whether seeking relaxation or revelry.
   
• The winding Old Town streets are perfect for exploring Split. Get lost in the narrow, cobbled lanes and alleys that have bustled for millennia, transported back in time by the polished stone and impressive architecture. The Old Town abounds with open-air eateries, inviting visitors to refuel with tasty Mediterranean fare, especially the fresh, local seafood often featured as the day's catch.
   
• Towering over Split's Old Town is a sprawling green park, the city's "Green Lungs". Filled with fragrant pines and buzzing cicadas, this scenic respite offers stunning vistas of the Old Town and the sea. Whether strolling, jogging or swimming, the park also hosts the Mestrović Gallery and a small local zoo.
   
• Diocletian's Palace, the heart of Split, encompasses 220 buildings housing over 3,000 people. Exploring its streets is time well spent. Access the palace through one of four gates - Golden, Silver, Iron, or Bronze. Entering via the Bronze Gate leads to the intact Basement, filled with stalls selling handcrafted goods and produce, perfect for souvenirs. For the best experience, join a historical walking tour to uncover the palace's hidden gems and learn its rich history. Self-guided exploration is possible, but guides offer insider knowledge. 
   
• The lively Green Market, or Pazar, east of Split's Old Town, is the "Soul of the City." This bustling marketplace brims with an abundance of locally grown produce and specialty items, drawing tourists and locals in search of everything from dried figs and olive oil to grappa and fresh berries. The market's vibrant atmosphere is enhanced by its friendly local vendors. 
   
• Croatia is home to eight stunning national parks, but the closest to Split is Krka, a must-visit for its waterfalls, lush flora, and impressive trails. Accessing Krka requires a 1-hour drive by car or bus tour from Split. Krka National Park encompasses two-thirds of the Krka River, carving numerous caverns and lakes that draw tens of thousands of visitors annually. 

Winding through Split's Old Town 

• Explore Split's Historic Cathedral: The Cathedral of St. Domnius, with its striking octagonal Romanesque design and 24 original columns, houses a Roman mausoleum from 305 AD and a 12th-century bell tower offering panoramic views.
   
• Discover Peristyle, the Heart of Diocletian's Palace: This central town square was the ceremonial hub of the ancient Roman palace, where you can witness daily reenactments of the changing of the guards.
   
• Visit the Split Museum: This gallery showcases art and cultural artifacts spanning the 14th century to the present, providing an engaging look into the city's history.
   
• Rub the Toe of the Gregory of Nin Statue: According to local legend, rubbing the toe of this renowned sculpture by Ivan Mestrović near the Golden Gate brings good luck.