Friends, ready for a city that folds everyday life into 1,700-year-old stone? Split on Croatia's Dalmatian coast is a living museum wrapped around café-lined squares and a glittering waterfront.

Use this guide to hit the essentials—clear routes, realistic prices, smart time-savers, and easy day trips—all in one place.

Ancient Core

Diocletian's Palace isn't just a ruin; it's the historic center. Wander Roman streets (cardo and decumanus) threaded with boutiques and cafés. Guided palace walking tours run $20–$30 for 1.5–2 hours and help decode courtyards, temples, and substructures. Go early (before 10:00) or after 17:00 to dodge cruise-day crowds.

Peristil Magic

Peristil Square, the palace's ceremonial courtyard, rewards slow pacing. Marble steps become informal seating for acoustic sets and summertime performances. Sunrise is best for photos; dusk catches warm light on columns. Entry is free; bring $1–$2 for a takeaway espresso at nearby stands.

Skyline Tower

Split's iconic Campanile (Bell Tower) offers wide-angle views across the Adriatic and terracotta roofs. Expect narrow stairs and open stonework—fine for most travelers with steady footing. Budget $7–$9 for admission; allow 30–40 minutes. Calmest hours are shortly after opening and an hour before closing.

Marjan Hill

West of the center, Marjan rises to 170 meters with cypress and pine-scented paths. From Telegrin lookout, you'll see islands scattered on the horizon. Trails are free; take water and sun protection. Rental bikes from the Riva cost $5–$8/hour or $18–$25/day; e-bikes run $35–$45/day.

Riva Stroll

The palm-lined Riva is Split's social lounge. Benches, fountains, and shade make it ideal for a midday break. Prices on the waterfront are higher; grab takeaways from back-lane bakeries instead. Public restrooms sit near the ferry terminal; keep $0.50–$1 coins handy for entry.

Iconic Statue

At the Golden Gate, the towering bronze of Grgur Ninski by Croatian master Ivan Meštrović anchors a leafy square. The polished toe is a popular good-luck tradition. Free to visit and a perfect waypoint before slipping into quieter stone corridors beyond the palace walls.

Klis Fortress

Perched above Split, Klis stretches along a ridge with dramatic views. Reach it by local bus from the HNK stop (about $2–$3 each way) or rideshare ($12–$18). Entry is typically $10–$12. Bring a hat—the wind is welcome, the sun is strong, and shade is limited.

Krka Falls

Krka National Park sits about an hour away via bus to Skradin ($10–$14 one way). Seasonal tickets range $12–$45; summer is highest. Boardwalks circle the cascades, with boat routes running to additional viewpoints. Pack grippy shoes, snacks, and a refillable bottle; services cluster at entrances.

Meštrović Works

At the Ivan Meštrović Gallery, nearly 200 sculptures and sketches showcase Croatia's celebrated sculptor. The 1930s villa and sculpture garden frame the sea beautifully. Expect $10–$12 admission and 60–90 minutes to explore. Photography is usually permitted without flash—check posted notices.

Salona Ruins

A short city bus ride lands you at Salona, once a major Roman center. Trace amphitheater outlines, early urban streets, and funerary stones along relaxed footpaths. Entry is typically $6–$8; allow 90 minutes. Bring sun cover—the site is open and can feel warmer than the coast.

Charter Boats

Split's calm waters and nearby islands make chartering straightforward. Small motorboats start around $180–$350/day (license required) plus fuel; skippered sailboats run $550–$900/day for private groups. Marinas have provisioning shops for snacks and water. Book a few days ahead in July–August; shoulder months are more flexible.

Beach Time

Stay central at sandy Bačvice for gentle, shallow water and lifeguards in peak season. Sun-loungers and umbrellas rent $7–$12/day. West of town, coves under Marjan offer natural shade and rock platforms—bring reef shoes. Showers are free at many beaches; kiosks sell snacks and chilled soft drinks.

Practicalities

Getting in: Split Airport (SPU) sits ~35 minutes away. Shuttle buses to the Riva are $5–$7; rideshares run $25–$35.

Getting around: Local buses cost $1.80–$2.20; day tickets $4–$6. Ferries to nearby islands depart beside the bus station—arrive 30–45 minutes early in summer.

Stays: Inside the palace or Veli Varoš brings charm and quick access. Expect $140–$250/night in high season for mid-range stays; $70–$110 outside the core or in shoulder months.

Food: Easy wins include veggie-friendly pies (like chard-filled pastries), pastas, risottos, salads, fresh fruit cups, and gelato ($2–$3 per scoop). Many kitchens pause service 15:00–18:00—plan meals accordingly.

Wrap-Up

Split blends Roman grandeur, seaside ease, and day trips that feel delightfully close. From palace lanes to island horizons, the essentials above keep your plan realistic on time and budget, whether you start with tower views, cool stone corridors, or a sunset swim.