Still wondering what to do in Split? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Split and book your hotel today!
Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, Croatia, is a truly unique coastal destination, famous for being built within the living walls of the ancient Roman Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This stunning 4th-century fortress is the thriving heart of the city, housing shops, restaurants, and homes within its preserved walls.
The city's beautiful seafront promenade, the Riva, buzzes with cafes and palms, offering a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by. You can explore the labyrinthine streets of the Old Town, climb the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral for panoramic views, or enjoy the popular sandy beach of Bačvice. Split is a vibrant, historic, and sun-drenched gateway to the beautiful Dalmatian Islands.
Choosing where to book your hotel in Split is a choice between the atmospheric heart of the Old Town, the lively beach, or a tranquil residential retreat.
The Old Town and Diocletian's Palace area is the best location for first-time visitors. Staying inside the palace walls or in the immediate vicinity offers an unparalleled atmospheric experience, placing you next to all the major historic sites and the Riva promenade. Accommodation here consists mainly of boutique hotels and charming guesthouses.
For beach lovers and those seeking nightlife, the Bačvice district, a short walk east of the Old Town, is ideal. This area is home to the city’s most famous sandy beach, popular beach bars, and a range of modern apartments and hotels.
The Veli Varoš district, located at the foot of Marjan Hill and west of the Old Town, is a tranquil and charming neighbourhood. Known for its rustic stone houses and narrow, cobbled streets, it offers a peaceful retreat that is still within easy walking distance of the central activity.
Split is served by Split Airport (SPU), with shuttle buses and airport taxis providing easy transfers to the city centre. The main bus, ferry, and train terminals are conveniently located near the Old Town. The central areas are highly walkable, with local buses useful for reaching the wider districts.
To secure a competitive hotel rate in Split, you must strictly avoid the peak summer season, which runs from late June to August. As the main gateway to the Dalmatian Islands, prices are extremely high and availability is limited during this period.
For significant savings, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons of May, early June, or September/October. A unique and vital money-saving tip is to look for hotels or apartments in the quieter districts slightly outside the Old Town, such as Veli Varoš or the emerging Žnjan area. These locations offer much cheaper rates, and their proximity to the Old Town (a short walk or bus ride) means you don't miss out on the central attractions.