Split attractions enchant visitors with a mix of historical cultural treasures and picturesque beaches. The unofficial capital of Dalmatia, Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace in the heart of the city, an impressive example of Roman architecture that brings Split’s history to life. Split’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is another must-see for those interested in cultural sights.
In addition to the historical sites, Split in Croatia offers a variety of modern attractions and activities. The port of Split pulsates with Mediterranean flair, and the Riva promenade invites you to take a leisurely stroll. Another highlight is Marjan Hill, from the top of which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding coast.
For those who want to explore the surrounding area, we recommend a trip to the Makarska Riviera, a coastal region known for its idyllic beaches and crystal clear waters.
Whether culture, nature or relaxation – Split and the surrounding area offer something special for every taste.
The historic city of Split on Croatia’s Adriatic coast offers numerous sights for every taste. In the center of Split is Diocletian’s Palace, the heart of the old town, with the Peristyle and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. Modern moments can be experienced on the lively Riva promenade, while the Marjan Hill and the beaches delight nature lovers. Cultural treasures such as Salona and the Klis Fortress as well as excursion destinations such as Trogir and the island of Brac make sightseeing in Split a highlight of a vacation in Croatia. Here we present all the top sights in detail:
The Old Town of Split is an architectural jewel with a rich history, characterized by the Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristyle and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. These sights are central elements of the historic Old Town and attract numerous visitors every year.
Diocletian’s Palace, built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, is considered the heart of the old town of Split. It covers an area of about 30,000 square meters.
This massive structure originally served as the emperor’s retirement home and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its imposing walls and well-preserved remains are testament to Roman architecture and fascinating history. Strolling through the palace’s narrow streets, you’ll discover traces of ancient Roman culture everywhere.
What is of interest are primarily the different architectural styles, which were supplemented by later Venetian and medieval influences. Diocletian’s Palace is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also the vibrant center of today’s old town of Split.
The Peristyle is the central square inside Diocletian’s Palace. This square, surrounded by fairytale columns, was originally the main entrance to the imperial living quarters.
Today, the Peristyle serves as a popular meeting place and event venue. The majestic columns and the well-preserved historical space provide the perfect setting for cultural events and concerts.
The Peristyle also provides access to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. The square is popular with tourists and locals alike, who can enjoy the unique atmosphere of the ancient architecture here. A visit to the Peristyle provides an impressive insight into Roman architecture and the importance of the palace in history.
The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally built as a mausoleum for Diocletian, is today one of the most important and oldest cathedrals in the world.
The octagonal building combines Roman and Christian influences. Of interest is the cathedral’s bell tower, which is an excellent example of well-preserved medieval architecture.
Inside, you will find magnificent frescoes and valuable religious works of art. Visitors can enter the mausoleum dedicated to Diocletian himself, known today as the Katedrala Svetog Duje. This cathedral is one of the architectural highlights in the old town of Split and also offers a breathtaking view of the city and the sea from the bell tower.
In addition to Diocletian’s Palace and the Peristyle, there are many other interesting historical sites in the Old Town of Split. These include the Golden Gate, an impressive entrance to the palace complex that was once used by Diocletian himself.
Another highlight are the narrow streets of the old town, which transport every visitor to another time. These streets are characterized by medieval and Venetian influences and offer numerous small shops, restaurants and hidden squares to explore.
The Riva promenade, which connects historic squares with modern cafes and shops, also attracts many visitors. The combination of old and new elements makes the old town of Split a lively historical centre.
The interaction of all these elements makes the old town of Split a multifaceted and exciting travel destination.
Split offers a unique mix of historical sights and modern experiences. This combination of old and new makes the city particularly appealing to visitors.
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Weitere InformationenThe Riva is the beating heart of the city. This waterfront promenade attracts both locals and tourists. Cafes and restaurants line the way and offer wonderful views of the sea. During the day you can relax with a coffee, while in the evening the nightlife comes alive with live music and street performers.
A walk along the Riva shows the lively side of Split. Especially at sunset, the panorama is breathtaking and unforgettable. This mix of nature and urban life makes the Riva one of the most popular sights in Split .
Located near Diocletian’s Palace, the statue of Gregory of Nin is a popular meeting place. This impressive sculpture by Croatian artist Ivan Meštrović attracts more than just history buffs. Many people believe that touching the big toe brings good luck.
Split offers an excellent choice of dining experiences and shopping opportunities. The city is known for its fresh seafood, which can be enjoyed in numerous restaurants along the Riva. Additionally, there are many traditional dishes and regional specialties that are worth trying. Peka, Pasticada, Soparnik, fresh seafood, and Black Risotto are just some of these dishes.
For shopping enthusiasts, Split offers both modern shopping centers and small boutiques in the narrow streets of the old town. Here you can find everything from designer goods to handmade souvenirs. The colorful mix of old and new, tradition and modernity makes shopping in Split a special experience.
Split offers fascinating sights not only within the city limits, but also in the surrounding area there are historical and cultural treasures waiting to be discovered. Particularly worth mentioning are the ancient city of Salona and the imposing Klis Fortress. Scenes from the world-famous series Game of Thrones were filmed in the fortress.
Klis Fortress stands majestically on a mountain ridge about 13 kilometers from Split. It played a crucial role in the defense against the Ottomans and is an important symbol of Croatian history.
The strategic location of Klis allows for a wide view over the entire region from Split to the coast. The fortress itself impresses with its well-preserved walls and citadels, which take visitors through centuries of history.
The history of Klis is marked by numerous sieges and battles. For those interested in history, the fortress offers exciting insights into the Middle Ages and the defense strategies of past eras.
Discover the hidden gems of Split! Off the beaten track, this fascinating city offers unique experiences. Relax on the idyllic beaches of Kašjuni and Bene, explore the historic alleys of the Varoš district and enjoy the spectacular views from Marjan Hill. Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Meštrović Gallery and try authentic Dalmatian cuisine in cozy konobas.
Salona, just a few kilometers from Split, was once the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia. Today, the ruins of this ancient heritage are an important archaeological site.
The area includes impressive remains of amphitheaters, thermal baths and basilicas. Particularly worth seeing are the remains of the city walls and the imposing amphitheater, which had space for around 15,000 spectators.
The history of Salona dates back to the 2nd century BC. Visitors can experience the former splendor of this Roman metropolis first hand. This archaeological site provides an authentic insight into the daily life and culture of antiquity.
There are numerous options for excursions and activities in the area around Split. The region offers historic towns, stunning beaches and exciting adventure islands that will delight you.
Located just a short 30-minute drive from Split, Trogir is a true gem. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town is characterized by its well-preserved medieval buildings and narrow streets that transport visitors back in time. Particularly worth seeing are the Cathedral of St. Lawrence and the Kamerlengo Fortress, both of which offer impressive architecture. A stroll along the promenade, lined with charming cafes and restaurants, completes the visit.
The island of Brac , just a few kilometers from Split, is famous for the Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach. This pebble beach, which has a unique horn shape, is often called one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. Brac offers not only beach relaxation, but also historical sights such as the Dominican monastery in Bol and the old quarry village of Skrip. A ferry from Split makes Brac an easily accessible destination for a day trip.
The Dalmatian islands are a haven for adventure and relaxation. Islands like Hvar , Vis and Korcula offer a mix of crystal clear waters, sandy beaches and picturesque villages. On Hvar, visitors can hike through the lavender fields or tour the historic Spanjola Fortress. Vis, just a ferry ride away, offers spectacular diving sites and the famous Blue Cave. These islands are perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Split and enjoy the natural beauty of the Dalmatian coast.
The Marjan peninsula, located in the western part of Split, Croatia, is an impressive nature reserve and a popular destination for travelers. Marjan is known for its dense pine forests, scenic walking trails and breathtaking views of the city and the sea. The peninsula offers numerous activities such as hiking, jogging and cycling. Particularly worth seeing are the historic stone chapels and the small churches scattered amidst nature. The highest point, Telegrin peak, offers spectacular views of the city and is accessible via stairs from the Veli Varos district. Often referred to as the “lungs of Split”, Marjan is an ideal place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.
Split impresses with its unique mix of history and modernity. The city offers some of the best preserved Roman buildings in the world , including the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, a symbol of the city. This historical complex is a must-see for any visitor to Split.
One of the most famous sights in Split is the Cathedral of St. Domnius, another architectural highlight. The Riva promenade, lined with cafés and restaurants, is also extremely popular and invites you to linger.
A short trip to Split also offers wonderful bathing opportunities. The nationally known beaches of Bačvice and Kašjuni are perfect places to enjoy the Adriatic coast. The combination of culture and nature makes Split an attractive destination.
In addition to the famous sights, Split also offers many insider tips, such as the fish market district or the Marjan hills with breathtaking views over the city and the sea. These lesser-known places can make a visit to Split particularly enriching.
Summary of the top highlights of Split:
These diverse attractions make Split an essential stop on any trip to Croatia. Whether you want to admire historical monuments or simply enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere, Split has something to offer everyone.
Split is a city full of history, culture and natural beauty. There is actually no more beautiful destination in Dalmatia for all types of holidaymakers. Its unique mix of Roman heritage and Dalmatian joie de vivre makes it a fascinating destination on the Croatian Adriatic coast.
