In this guide, we’ll show you how to have an amazing weekend in Split, Croatia! Set along the beautiful Adriatic coast, Split is a place where ancient history and stunning views come together perfectly. With Diocletian’s Palace at its heart, this city is the perfect mix of culture, natural beauty, and relaxation. Whether strolling through the Old Town, enjoying some delicious local food, or heading out on a scenic boat trip, Split has something for everyone. Let’s jump into the perfect weekend getaway in this coastal gem.
In this post, we'll guide you through the top spots to stay, dine, and explore so you can make the most of your time in this enchanting city. Split has so much to offer, from its rich history to mouthwatering dishes and hidden gems. Get ready to dive into a weekend adventure that will leave you craving more!
Chapters
Where to Stay?
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Split, you'll be spoilt for choice, with various beautiful hotels and charming Airbnbs scattered throughout the city. Whether you prefer the luxury of a boutique hotel in the heart of the Old Town or a cozy seaside apartment with stunning views of the Adriatic, Split has accommodations to suit every taste and budget.
Hostel Adria
If you're looking for an affordable hostel for a weekend getaway in Split, Croatia - just outside the bustling city, we recommend Adria, a charming backpacker-style hostel located right by the beach—perfect for chilling. The only downside is its distance from downtown Split, a 25-minute car ride or approximately 45 minutes by bus. The bus line is number 60, and the bus stop is right next to the hostel.
Backpacker Tip: Buy your bus ticket via the App Split Bus to save a few euros. Buying tickets on the bus costs three times more than buying them with the app.
Airbnb in Split, Croatia
We found a beautiful Airbnb just a few minutes walk from downtown and highly recommend it. Staying downtown is ideal when you have limited time, as it allows you to fully experience the city without the hassle of driving back and forth.
Things to Do in Split, Croatia, During a Weekend Getaway
Split offers a variety of activities for visitors, from exploring the historic Diocletian's Palace and wandering through the Old Town's narrow streets to visiting fascinating museums such as the Split Archaeological Museum. For a more relaxing experience, you can unwind on the beautiful beaches along the Adriatic coast or stroll along the scenic Riva promenade.
Unique Boat Trip - Blue Lagoon and Trogir (can't miss!)
We booked a boat trip through Airbnb, seeking a local experience away from the typical touristy excursions. We found Nikola's Half Day Trip, which included snorkeling and swimming at two picture-perfect bays, and we highly recommend it for both the exceptional experience and the excellent organization. Nikola went above and beyond, sending us detailed information to ensure we quickly found his boat at the port and had a relaxed, smooth journey.
First, we visited Nečujam Bay, where we snorkeled around a sunken shipwreck and enjoyed mojitos from a local vendor's boat.
Next, we headed to the Blue Lagoon, where the incredibly clear, picture-perfect water made for fantastic snorkeling and relaxation. A local vendor sold freshly made piña coladas from his boat, adding a unique and fun twist to the experience.
Our final stop was the UNESCO World Heritage site of Trogir, a charming and relatively undiscovered gem that added a unique touch to our adventure. If we had another day in Split, we would have definitely come here for a full day of exploration.
Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site (founded by Greek colonists and dating back over 2,300 years), is a fascinating town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming narrow streets. This historic gem boasts stunning landmarks such as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence and the Kamerlengo Fortress, which showcase the town's rich cultural heritage. Nestled on a small island right behind the Split airport, Trogir offers a unique and tranquil escape, making it a must-visit destination for all those seeking an authentic and off-the-beaten-path Croatian experience.
Green Market - Farmers Market in Split, Croatia
The Green Market in Split, also known as Pazar, is a vibrant open-air market just outside Diocletian's Palace's eastern wall. It is a bustling hub where locals and tourists can find fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and various other regional specialties. With its lively atmosphere and colorful stalls, the Green Market offers an authentic taste of Croatian daily life and is a great place to pick up delicious, fresh ingredients.
Downtown Split, Croatia
Strolling around downtown Split, you'll be enchanted by the blend of ancient and modern sights, with the iconic Diocletian's Palace at its heart. The narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and historical landmarks, offering a perfect mix of culture and leisure. You can also enjoy the lively Riva promenade, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy seaside views, street performances, and vibrant nightlife.
Best Places To Eat & Drink in Split, Croatia
Split offers a diverse culinary scene where you can savor some of the best fresh seafood catches of the day at local taverns and upscale restaurants. The city's vibrant food market and numerous Konobas (traditional Croatian taverns) provide a taste of authentic Dalmatian cuisine. Don't forget to treat yourself to delicious ice cream from popular spots like Gelateria Emiliana as you explore the charming streets of the Old Town.
Konoba Laganini $$$$
Konoba Laganini in Split, Croatia, is a high-class restaurant perfect for a fancy date night. Known for its flavorful seafood dishes and elegant ambiance, the restaurant offers a refined dining experience with fresh, local ingredients and exceptional service. It's an ideal spot to enjoy traditional Dalmatian cuisine in a sophisticated and cozy setting.
Makarun Restaurant $$$
Makarun Restaurant in Split, Croatia, is a high-class dining establishment you don't want to miss out on! We recommend trying the black ink risotto, topped with a delicious shrimp tartare, and the steak served with the tastiest truffle pasta. This restaurant offers a truly gourmet experience with dishes that highlight the best of Croatian cuisine.
Konoba GregoLevante $$
Konoba Grego Levante is a hidden gem with a cozy atmosphere and excellent service. We highly recommend trying the grilled scampi and squid, which are prepared to perfection. The restaurant's charming interior, located next to the ancient palace walls, offers a unique dining experience.
To Je Tako Mexican Restaurant $
If you want a break from traditional Mediterranean food, try Birria Tacos at To Je Tako Mexican Restaurant. While it might seem unusual to seek out Mexican food in a Mediterranean place, their birria tacos are exceptionally delicious and worth a try. The restaurant also allows you to choose three different tacos, and while we sampled the birria and two chicken varieties, the birria tacos were undoubtedly my favorite.
Gelateria Emiliana
If you want the tastiest ice cream in town, visit Gelateria Emiliana. Hazelnut is my favorite flavor, and this gelateria nailed it—it's creamy and delicious, with no artificial flavors that you can taste.
Tip: There are numerous ice cream shops all over town, but many sell ice cream with artificial ingredients. You can spot artificial ingredients by their overly sweet taste and the sight of hugely decorated ice cream piles that rise above the cooling box, as these require artificial additives to stay firm and prevent melting.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is a trendy spot in Split, known for its delicious food and drinks, including the perfect Negroni. We highly recommend trying their delicious truffle pasta. However, visit Makarun Restaurant (mentioned above) for a truly tasty and authentic risotto.
D16 Specialty Coffee Shop
Stop by D16, a tiny coffee shop in Split, Croatia, to enjoy a delicious cappuccino or flat white. Despite its small size, D16 is known for its cozy atmosphere and expertly crafted coffee, making it a must-visit spot for coffee lovers exploring the city. If you're looking for more space, there's also a more prominent D16 location in the city center, offering seating options across two different house complexes.
Restaurant Astoria - Outside of the City (15 min walking from the Hostel)
Restoran Astoria is a simple but relaxing spot just a 15-minute walk from the hostel. Here, you can enjoy a delicious seafood platter at half the price of similar dishes in downtown Split. The restaurant's peaceful setting makes it an excellent choice for a tasty meal away from the city hustle.
Conclusion
A trip to Split, Croatia, will leave you with lasting memories of stunning Adriatic views, ancient wonders, and culinary delights. From wandering the historic streets of the Old Town and exploring the magnificent Diocletian's Palace to savoring delicious local dishes and embarking on a unique boat trip, Split offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.
This enchanting city has a way of drawing you in with its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere, making it a destination you'll want to return to again and again. Whether you stayed in a charming Airbnb close to the city's heart or further out in a backpacker hostel, dined at a cozy Konoba, or discovered hidden gems like Trogir, Split has undoubtedly left a lasting impression.
We hope this guide has helped you make the most of your time in Split and that your weekend here has been as unforgettable as this beautiful coastal gem deserves.
Let us know in the comments what your favorite things to do are in Split, Croatia!
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