Split

Split is famous for being the retirement home of the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Today's Split has two main squares, the Pjaca and the Peristyle which give the city of Split a stylish and laid-back sophistication, particularly if you are sitting at one of the cafes lining the palm-shaded waterfront. The overall urban structure is in the style of mediaeval cities and along with the stunning Roman palace is protected by UNESCO. Split has a rich variety of cultural, archaeological and historical monuments; the crown jewel is, of course, the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. Just outside the northern gate of the Palace is sculptor Ivan Mestrovic’s famous monumental statue of Grgur Ninski where you can join the millions of travellers who come here to have their photo taken and rub his toe for "good luck".

The city of Split is situated in the warmest region of the northern Mediterranean coast. For more than 1,700 years, the city has been receiving its fresh water from the nearby Jadro and Žrnovnica Rivers. A mild climate, with 2700 sunny hours per year, makes the city a wind-sheltered oasis so you can enjoy the sun even in winter. Split is also the industrial, academic, cultural and business centre of the region; it is full of sports clubs, beaches (the city’s sandy Bacvice beach is the most famous), restaurants, nightclubs, museums, palaces and cultural events.

NB. Split and Trogir are close to each other so we would suggest choosing one or the other as a base to explore on any itinerary. It is possible to use the frequent passenger ferry between the two locations to avoid driving.

Sightseeing in Split

The Emperor's Palace covers almost 7 acres of the city centre with gates through the walls leading in and out of the main streets. Diocletian's quarters were in the southern, seaward end of the complex, which is remarkably well preserved, whilst the staff and Legionaries lived in the northern section, which has limited remains of the actual buildings but superb walls and arches nonetheless. Other sights in the old city include the Papalic Palace, now the city museum, the Cathedral of St Dominus (once the mausoleum of the emperor) and the gates themselves with the mediaeval streets are certainly worthy of some time exploring on foot. The belltower of the Cathedral is well worth climbing for gorgeous views over Split, both out to sea and inland and if you have a little more time continue walking and visit the sites along the wooded Marjan Peninsula out beyond St Stephen’s Church, there is even a beach [Bene] at the far side.

Wandering through the open air market or sitting on a sun-warmed stone, it is easy to forget that behind the two-metre-thick walls, there is a modern, busy port - it is that juxtaposition which lies at the very heart of Split’s charm.

Activities available include cycling, paddle boarding, sea kayaking and snorkelling; nearby we can also offer river rafting and zip-wire adventures.

We look forward to being of service.