Why Split Should Be On Your Must-See Places in Croatia List
There is no doubt that Croatia is a wonderful Mediterranean country with so many gorgeous sights to see, but if we have to choose one place to be our starting point, it would be Split. The second largest city in Croatia gets over a million visitors a year, some are attracted by its sun-kissed beaches and narrow streets, while others are attracted by the connection to all the fabulous islands.
Split is a city with many faces. During the day tourists walk through the old town observing centuries-old buildings, discovering the secrets of Diocletian Palace, and buying souvenirs from many shops. Others go to the beach and play in the sand all day.
In the evening you can see couples visiting romantic restaurants with fantastic food, young people going to bars and pubs, and families eating ice cream and walking along the sea watching the sunset.
Here are the main reasons why everyone should visit Split when traveling to Croatia:
Island Hopping
The islands like Brač, Hvar, and Vis are conveniently accessible from Split, the region’s primary transportation hub with numerous ferry lines. Although there are many island hopping tours available in Split, you can simply take a ferry to your destination and stay a day or more at any of these beautiful islands.
It is a great idea to rent a card so you can drive around these islands and see every possible stunning beach and viewpoint. For example, the island closest to the mainland, Brač, is much more calming and relaxing. Even though you will find cocktail bars and upscale resort-style hotels in Bol town, it is nothing compared to fancy Hvar island with an incredible party scene.
For a more authentic Adriatic experience, you should head to Korčula or Vis, which are not as busy and touristy as Hvar and Split. Here you will find small colorful towns, turquoise water, and seafood restaurants.
The Ancient History
As you stroll around Split, it’s simple to be astounded. Many extremely ancient structures in the Old Town are over 2000 years old. It is referred to as Diocletian’s Palace and was constructed beginning at the end of the third century AD. It includes a sizable complex of gateways, courtyards, protective walls, and imperial apartments which are now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The highlight of the old town is the Diocletian Mausoleum, now known as the Christian Cathedral of Saint Domnius, or the Temple of Jupiter, a former pagan temple that now houses an Egyptian sphinx. If you are a history buff this city is a dream come true for you, and the best part is, you can book a hotel or Airbnb inside the old town and sleep in centuries-old rooms still in use today.
It Is a Party City
The thriving nightlife in Split is gaining popularity in recent years, starting with the famous festival ULTRA choosing Split for its home. A three-day stadium festival adorned with flashing lasers, fireworks, and Day-Glo transformed the obscenely popular electronic dance music party into the juggernaut of the commercial dance music scene six years ago when it traveled from its Florida home to Croatia.
The spectacle draws a steady stream of party-loving spectators from all over Europe. Due to the event, there are now more year-round clubs and party hovels open than ever before, subtly enhancing Split’s late-night options. You can do pub crawls, find the best bars in the city’s old town, or explore the nearby party islands of Pag and Hvar.
The Day Trips
Split makes a great starting point for touring Croatia’s diverse landscape. With the rocky mountains and nature reserves of the Dinaric Alps in the background and the Adriatic Sea’s pine-covered islands in front, this shouldn’t come as much of a surprise.
The Blue Cave trip from Split is one of Croatia’s most well-known sights. Located on Bisevo Island, it is a breathtaking natural beauty. The cave is occasionally bathed in a silvery blue glow as a result of sunlight reflecting off the white limestone sea floor as it enters through a crack in the roof.
Another must-see while in Split is the Blue Lagoon, also known as the Bay of Krknjasi. It’s one of the best places for an unforgettable swim and is one of the warmer months of the year. The scene there resembles something out of a tropical Caribbean paradise, with some of the clearest blue waters and a sandy seabed.
Šolta, one of the more unspoiled Croatian islands that are less developed than many of the others and frequently ignored by tourists, is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Split. There are several historical sites to visit, including the ancient ruins of sarcophagi and about a dozen centuries-old churches. It has managed to preserve its history and culture.
Staying on the mainland, you may reach Mount Biokovo’s towering summits for climbing and winding picturesque drives. Alternately, there are the fabled beaches of the Makarska Riviera, a haven for yachts and bodies that have browned on the pebbles. If you don’t mind a longer drive north, the Krka National Park is also accessible as a day trip. It is the location of some of Europe’s most breathtaking waterfalls, the same as Plitvice Lakes which can be a day trip too.
The Beaches
Split is one of the highlights of the coastline of Croatia when it comes to beaches. It is the largest coastal city and can provide access to everything from quaint coves to bustling promenades and everything in between. Here are the most beautiful beaches you can easily reach from the city:
Jezinac Beach
Just a kilometer from the city center, in Split, this is a nice pebble beach, with palms, and stunning sea colors. Showers and locker rooms are available, as well as parking. In a beach cafe, you can have food and beverages while enjoying the views of the turquoise water.
Kasjuni Beach
One of the absolute highlights among the beaches in Split is Kasjuni Beach, which is situated on the southern edge of Marjan Forest Park. This charming long-drawn bay offers a lovely pebble beach, clear water, and an excellent vacation atmosphere. Along the beach, you will find several beach bars where you can chill and hide from the sun.
Bačvice Beach
Bačvice is Split’s most well-known city beach, a short walk from the old town. The very shallow slope of this sandy beach makes it the perfect location for families with young children. Right there on the beach, you can rent sun loungers and umbrellas. Along the bay, there are also numerous charming cafes and restaurants.
Final thoughts…
Split is the heart of the Adriatic coast, with excellent locations and a lot to offer to every visitor.
If you want to explore more of the Dalmatian coast, this is a perfect starting point, from where you can take things off your bucket list. Schedule a consultation with The Trip Atelier now and start crafting a memorable vacation today.
