Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and a perfect mix of ancient history, Mediterranean charm, and modern coastal vibes. Home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, Split is a lively destination with beaches, great nightlife, and easy access to nearby islands** like Hvar, Brač, and Vis. ![image]() ## **🏛️ Top Things to See & Do in Split** ### **1️⃣ Explore Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO) 🏰** - A **massive Roman palace**, built in the **4th century** by Emperor Diocletian. - Today, it’s **a living city**, filled with **cafés, shops, and hidden alleys**. - Visit **Peristyle Square**, the **Cathedral of St. Domnius**, and the **Temple of Jupiter**. - **Game of Thrones fans** – Many scenes were filmed here! 🎬 ![image]() ### **2️⃣ Climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius ⛪** - Offers **panoramic views** of Split and the Adriatic Sea. - One of the **oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use**, dating back to Roman times. ### **3️⃣ Stroll the Riva Promenade 🌊** - The heart of Split’s waterfront, lined with **palm trees, cafés, and bars**. - Perfect for **sunset walks and people-watching**. ### **4️⃣ Hike Up Marjan Hill 🌿** - A **green oasis** with **stunning viewpoints over Split**. - Great for **hiking, cycling, or just relaxing in nature**. - Don’t miss **Telegrin Viewpoint** for breathtaking photos. ![image]() ### **5️⃣ Visit Bačvice Beach 🏖️** - Split’s **most famous beach**, known for its **shallow waters and sandy shore** (rare in Croatia!). - Try playing **picigin**, a local water sport played with a small ball. - Other great beaches: **Kasjuni Beach (more secluded) and Bene Beach (in Marjan Park).** ### **6️⃣ Take a Day Trip to the Dalmatian Islands ⛵** - **Hvar** – Famous for its nightlife, beautiful old town, and lavender fields. - **Brač (Golden Horn Beach)** – One of Croatia’s most unique beaches. - **Vis & Blue Cave** – Stunning island and the famous glowing Blue Cave on Biševo. ![image]() ### **7️⃣ Try Dalmatian Cuisine 🍽️** - **Peka** – A slow-cooked dish with meat or octopus, baked under an iron bell. - **Black risotto (Crni rižot)** – A squid-ink seafood specialty. - **Dalmatian prosciutto & cheese** – Best paired with local **Plavac Mali wine**. ### **8️⃣ Visit Klis Fortress 🏰** - A medieval fortress just outside Split, offering **amazing views**. - Another **Game of Thrones filming location** (it was Meereen in the show). ![image]() ## **🚗 How to Get to Split** ✈️ **By Air:** Split Airport (SPU) is **25 minutes from the city center**. 🚘 **By Car:** - **From Dubrovnik:** ~3.5 hours (220 km) - **From Zagreb:** ~4 hours (400 km) 🚌 **By Bus:** Direct buses from **Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Zagreb**. ⛵ **By Ferry:** Split’s port connects to islands like **Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula**. ![image]() ## **💡 Tips for Visiting Split** ✅ **Best time to visit?** **May–October** for warm weather & island hopping ☀️ ✅ **Wake up early** to explore Diocletian’s Palace without crowds ⏳ ✅ **Bring cash** – Some small restaurants & markets still prefer cash 💶 ✅ **Book ferries in advance** if visiting islands in peak season 🚢 ✅ **Stay for sunset** – Watching the sun dip behind the Adriatic is magical 🌅