Split holidays

The creators of ‘Game of Thrones’ knew what they were doing when they cast Split in their megahit series. Croatia’s seaside city has all the drama and intrigue of an epic. And your holiday to Split can too. From Roman ruins and grand museums to trendy shops and rocky coves, see why this ancient beach town is becoming the crown of the Adriatic.

Split holiday highlights

Marjan Park Viewpoint
Marjan Park Viewpoint
Thomas Bekker

The Riva

During your holiday to Split, soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere with a stroll along the Riva. Lined with palm trees and historic buildings, this busy waterfront promenade is awash with sights and sounds; watch yachts go by and listen to street performers. It’s the perfect spot to sip a coffee, enjoy an ice cream or have a leisurely meal.

Island hopping

Voyage to the islands dotted along the coastline on your holiday to Split. Explore the natural beauty of Brac with its pretty villages and the gorgeous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) beach. On Hvar (known as The Island of Wine) tread the ancient streets and visit the Plenkovic Winery to sample a glass or two of local wine.

Croatian cuisine

Take a food-lover’s journey through Croatian cuisine on your holiday to Split. Indulge in a traditional bowl of  ‘pasticada’ (beef stew marinated in wine, served with gnocchi) or bite into a slice of ‘soparnik’ (thin pastry pie with Swiss chard and onion) with a side of ‘ajvar’, a smoky red pepper relish.

Split: Know before you go

Language

Croatian

Currency

Euro (€)

Time zone

UTC+1 (CET) and UTC+2 (CEST)

High season

June – August

Low season

December – February

Find the best time to go to Split

Weather in Split

March – May: Spring in Split combines mild days with warming water. Cool winds from the northwest are common, making for perfect sailing conditions.

June – August: Temperatures climb to 30°C during the dry months. But Adriatic breezes keep the humidity in check. Swim your heart out — the water is perfect.

September – November: The days (and the crowds) cool off in autumn, and the water stays warm throughout October. November is the wettest month of the year, so pack an umbrella.

December – February: The sea keeps temperatures above freezing in Split. But you can expect a fair amount of wind and rain.

Events in Split

Feast of Saint Domnius (May): This popular feast day honours ‘Sveti Duje’ (Saint Domnius) and the city of Split itself. Celebrations feature a procession and public mass, plus a week of musical performances and a local craft fair.

Ultra Europe (July): Some of the top names in EDM descend on Split for three nights of high-energy performances. The main stage is in Park Mladeži stadium, but look for related events and after-parties across the city and nearby Dalmatian Islands.

Mrduja Regatta (October): Join the crowds along the marina or in Sustipan Park to watch hundreds of sailboats compete in one of Europe’s oldest regattas.

We scan 100 billion prices, so you don’t have to

Compare prices to bag a cheap holiday to Split

Book your holiday to Split, all in one place

The best neighbourhoods in Split

Bacvice

Home to one of the most popular (and Blue Flag rated) beaches in Split, Bacvice offers the best of both worlds: a laid-back beach holiday vibe, with easy access to the historic city core. With lots of places to eat and drink, plus a thriving nightlife, Bacvice is where to stay in Split for lively beachfront clubs and partying until dawn.

Good for: Sandy beaches, cafes, nightlife

Old Town

Stay at the heart of history in the Old Town of Split. Nestled within the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace, this area is like a living museum. Explore the labyrinth of narrow lanes, with quaint shops, busy markets and cosy cafes. It’s the best neighbourhood in Split for a true taste of culture and history.

Good for: Ancient ruins, shopping, cafes

Varos

Tucked away from the bustling city centre, Varos is a maze of winding streets, stone houses and colourful flowers. Enjoy living like the locals, eating authentic Croatian cuisine at family-run taverns and savouring the simple pleasures of Mediterranean life. If you’re put off by the high prices in Old Town, Varos is where to stay in Split on a budget that still offers an Old Town feel.

Good for: Quaint streets, architecture, traditional cuisine

Things to do in Split

Golden Gate
Golden Gate
Thomas Bekker

Shopping

Treat yourself to some retail therapy as you shop for souvenirs at the Pazar (green market) or outdoor Old Market. Head to the Mall of Split for local and international brands. Or buy a traditional silk cravat and discover its history (the necktie was invented in Croatia) at the CROATA store in Old Town.

Places to eat

Split’s culinary scene is thriving, so you won’t be disappointed by the restaurants in Split. Book to eat at the family-run Konoba Hvaranin and try the traditional ‘rozata’ creme caramel dessert. Enjoy seasonal Mediterranean fare at Uje Oil Bar, a rustic restaurant with a Dalmatian focus or eat fresh fish at Dvor, a coastal restaurant with island views.

Take in the culture

The museums in Split are treasure troves of culture, art and history. See stunning classical sculptures and mosaics from Ancient Roman settlements at the Split Archaeological Museum. Visit the Ethnographic Museum to understand traditional Dalmatian life, or the Split City Museum for a journey through time showing how the city developed.

Beaches

Enjoy the best beach days the Adriatic has to offer at Bacvice Beach with its shallow water. For a quieter beach, head to Kasjuni, beneath the shade of Marjan Hill (there is a nudist area too). Or try Kastelet, one of the beaches in Split favoured by locals as it’s easy to get to by car or on foot. 

Nightlife

Discover the city after dark, from cosy taverns with local wines to busy beachside clubs. Drink cocktails amongst books at the Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar. Or dance with locals until the early hours at the Jungla Club near the ACI Marina, famous for rock, house and underground techno music.

Family friendly things to do

There are plenty of things to do with family in Split. Step back in time and explore the ancient Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius; climb the bell tower for panoramic views. Hike up Marjan Hill, a gorgeous green space with several walking trails and a park for the little ones.

Plan your holiday to Split

Budget

Holiday hotspots on the Dalmatian Coast usually come with a heavy price tag. But a cheap holiday to Split is still very doable. Save money on sightseeing with a free walking tour of the Old Town. You can even sample Split’s famous nightlife on a budget. A domestic beer costs around four euros (€), and a meal at an inexpensive restaurant is about €15.

Day trips from Split

Just up the coast, Trogir is a walled medieval town packed with incredible preserved architecture and Renaissance art. Drive or catch the bus to Krka National Park to see some of Croatia’s most beautiful waterfalls. Hike, swim or take a boat tour up the Krka River to the ruins of Trošenj and Nečven Castles.

Getting around Split

Getting around Split couldn’t be easier. Explore the heart of the city on foot, by hiring a bike or by catching Promet Split buses — there are 19 routes in the city. Buses are also available for journeys outside the city. There are even ferry and catamaran routes to nearby islands. For convenient nights out, take a taxi.

FAQs about Split holidays

Croatian is what you'll hear in most conversations. From everyday greetings to unique local expressions, you'll probably add a few new words to your vocabulary during your city break in Split.
If your trip to Split is all about seeing the top sights, three to five days should be enough. Stay for a week or more if you don't want to rush through everything. Extended visits give you more time to settle in and explore at your own pace, especially after travelling long-distance.
Split is largely a safe city with a low crime rate, so it’s safe to go on holidays here as a single traveller, couple or family. As with any unfamiliar place, be vigilant, stick to well-lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings.
With around 21 cm of rainfall, November is the rainiest month. If you're going on your Split holiday then, it's a good idea to have a few indoor activities in mind. Dine at one of the best spots in town, visit a museum, or hit the shops for some retail therapy.
You'll never be far from exciting things to do in Split. From Diocletian's Palace to Marjan Hill Stairs and more, there's no shortage of reasons to book a trip.
The euro (EUR) is the official currency. From tipping to shopping at local markets, having some cash on hand during your trip to Split can make things easier.
The time of year you go, the airline you choose, and where you stay will help influence how much you pay for your city break in Split. If you're looking to cut costs, search for discounts or last-minute deals on Split flights and hotels. Travelling on weekdays and flying with budget airlines are other good ways to save.
January is the coolest time of year to visit. Set off on your Split trip then and you can anticipate lows of 1ºC (34ºF).
August is the hottest month in Split, with temperatures hitting highs of 31ºC (88ºF).
Split is great at any time of the year, as the area has a mild climate. For the best temperatures and least rain, time your trip between May and August. For cheap holidays to Split, book your break in September or October; there will be fewer crowds, but the sea is still warm enough for a dip.
If you plan to spend most of your time in the city or at local beaches, you can get by with walking or using public transport. For day trips further afield, it’s worth hiring a car to travel at your own pace and not be tied to timetables.

Cheap holidays to dream destinations

Other travellers love these package holiday hotspots. Take your pick of what’s popular.
Costa Blanca
From Benidorm to Alicante, savour the sun, sea, and vibrant Spanish culture.
Lanzarote
Hike through volcanic landscapes, relax on golden beaches and enjoy the laid-back Canarian vibe.
Tenerife
From the majestic Mount Teide to sunny beaches, there's adventure and relaxation here in equal measure.
Ibiza
Dance the night away and soak up the sun on the island of eternal party and pristine beaches.
Antalya
Discover ancient ruins, turquoise waters, and the warm welcome of Turkey's Mediterranean gem.
Majorca
Experience the perfect blend of stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
Malta
Step back in time with ancient history, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
Algarve
Enjoy sun-soaked beaches, charming villages, and world-class golf in Portugal's southern paradise.
Marrakech
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours, bustling markets, and rich history of this ancient city.
Costa del Sol
Relax on sunny beaches, explore charming towns, and savour the flavours of Andalusia.
Dubai
Experience luxury and adventure in the city of skyscrapers, deserts, and world-class shopping.
New York
Discover the energy of the Big Apple, from iconic landmarks to vibrant neighbourhoods.
Costa Blanca
From Benidorm to Alicante, savour the sun, sea, and vibrant Spanish culture.
Lanzarote
Hike through volcanic landscapes, relax on golden beaches and enjoy the laid-back Canarian vibe.
Tenerife
From the majestic Mount Teide to sunny beaches, there's adventure and relaxation here in equal measure.
Ibiza
Dance the night away and soak up the sun on the island of eternal party and pristine beaches.
Antalya
Discover ancient ruins, turquoise waters, and the warm welcome of Turkey's Mediterranean gem.
Majorca
Experience the perfect blend of stunning beaches, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.
Malta
Step back in time with ancient history, crystal-clear waters, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
Algarve
Enjoy sun-soaked beaches, charming villages, and world-class golf in Portugal's southern paradise.
Marrakech
Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours, bustling markets, and rich history of this ancient city.
Costa del Sol
Relax on sunny beaches, explore charming towns, and savour the flavours of Andalusia.
Dubai
Experience luxury and adventure in the city of skyscrapers, deserts, and world-class shopping.
New York
Discover the energy of the Big Apple, from iconic landmarks to vibrant neighbourhoods.