Holiday in Split

What makes Split special as a destination?

Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is not a museum behind glass walls, but a vibrant metropolis that has lived, eaten, and celebrated in the Roman Diocletian's Palace for 1,700 years. The UNESCO-protected palace complex from the 4th century forms the heart of the old town: within its walls are apartments, restaurants, bars, and shops — ancient architecture as everyday living space. The Peristyle, the central courtyard of the palace, serves as an open-air stage and meeting point. The Cathedral of Sveti Duje, originally Diocletian's mausoleum, offers a panoramic view of the red roofs and the sea from its bell tower. The Riva promenade along the harbor is Split's living room: here, one strolls at sunset with an iced coffee among palm trees and elegant facades. The Marjan hill west of the old town offers hiking trails through pine forests, hidden chapels, and bathing opportunities at rocky beaches. Split is the ideal starting point for day trips to the Krka waterfalls (1.5 hours), the Plitvice Lakes, or the nearby islands of Hvar, Brac, and Vis. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize Diocletian's Palace as the filming location for the cellars of Meereen. The Dalmatian cuisine spoils with Peka (meat or fish under the iron bell), freshly caught fish, and local wines from the Peljesac Peninsula. The best travel time is from May to June or September — warm enough for swimming, but without the crowds of high summer.