CTW Explores
Split
Country: Croatia Language: Croatian Currency: Croatian kuna (kn)
Split is one of the largest cities in Croatia and full of history and culture. This mediterranean city is filled with kind and friendly locals eager to help tourists enjoy all the experiences it offers. Immerse yourself in the ancient history of the city by wandering through the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. Embrace the Dalmatian culture with traditional cuisine, fresh produce, espresso, and wine. Relax and soak up the sun at one of the many beaches in the area. Or take a day trip to one of the many Adriatic islands nearby. While Split is the second largest city in Croatia, you may be pleased to know it does not have the big city vibes you might expect. If you are looking for city life and night life, you are in the right place, but if you are looking for tranquility and peace, you are in the right place, as that’s the incredible way of Croatian life!
CTW Must See
Split Waterfront
Split’s waterfront is incredibly beautiful and worth the hype. It is unlike any other waterfront in Croatia, making it a truly special experience. Lined with restaurants and plenty of outdoor seating, you will not run out of dining or cafe options. Enjoy the ocean breeze with a cold beer, a glass of Croatian wine, or freshly made ice cream.
Diocletian’s Palace
Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a remarkably beautiful and historic building in Split. It was built in 305 AD, by the Roman Emperor Diocletian as a place for him to retire. The palace contains well-preserved cellars, and the interior is essentially an extension of the palace. The palace ruins are Split’s main attraction, and allow tourists to get lost within its walls in the best of ways.
Cathedral of St. Duje (Saint Domnius)
Built in the 4th century, the Cathedral of St. Domnius can be seen from almost anywhere in Split. The 57 meter bell tower stands tall above the palace ruins, and provides an excellent view overlooking the Old Town. The cathedral sits in the center Old Town, within the peristyle of the palace ruins. From here, you have access to many cafes, a number of laneways to get lost in, and the historic vestibule, where you will often find singers performing traditional Dalmatian music, called Klapa.
People’s Square
Just outside the palace ruins, you will find People’s Square, one of the largest squares in Split. Split’s former city hall used to reside in this square, making it a place for social gatherings for centuries. The lively, colorful square has no shortage of restaurants, cafes, and bars, and it is the beginning of the main shopping street in Split that will lead you all the way to the waterfront.
Statue of Grgur Ninski
Gregory Nin was a Croatian bishop from the 10th century. He played an important role in protecting the national language used in religious services. Before him, most church services were in Latin, and most of the churchgoers were unable to understand the service. The statue was erected in the Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace until WWII, when it was taken down. After the war, the statue was relocated just outside the city walls. If you rub the statue’s big toe, it is said to grant wishes.
Republic Square
Along the waterfront, you will not miss this large, bright square. Built in the 19th century by a Venetian architect, you will see the resemblance to St. Mark’s Square in Venice. In the summer, there are many markets, music festivals, and cultural experiences that take place in the square.
More Croatian Adventures...
Croatia is an extraordinary country with a lot to explore! Check out our city guides for some of the most popular Croatian cities...
Dubrovnik
Plitvice National Park
Coming soon!
Zagreb
