Should You Visit Split?

Is Split worth visiting?

Yes, there are many reasons to visit Split. Everyone should experience this amazing city, and we loved our stay here.

Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this city has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the great nightlife and amazing museums and attractions.

Split is loved by visitors for many reasons, and is routinely on national "best of" lists, including The Times Best City Breaks in Europe.

Split is the second largest city in Croatia and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It sits on the Adriatic Sea and is filled with water sports, beaches, historic sights, and nightclubs. The city is popular with backpackers for its fun social scene, but families and couples will appreciate the beauty and cuisine of the area as well.

Split, Croatia Split, Croatia

9 Reasons to Visit Split

1. Nightlife

It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

2. Museums and Attractions

The city is filled with historical sights, some of which were used in the shooting of the famed television series, Game of Thrones. Highlights include Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery.

3. Food

It's the second largest city in Croatia and the food scene reflects this. You'll find a mix of Dalmatian restaurants and international options. There's also everything from fine dining to local taverns, so whatever your budget or food preference, you won't be disappointed.

4. Resorts

You'll find a mix of popular resort chains, local boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and hostels. Whatever your budget or travel style there are options available.

5. Scuba Diving & Snorkeling

Some of the best snorkeling is found around the Kornati Islands. There are many boat trips that take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots near Split.

6. Beaches

There are many beaches in the area that are a mix of pebbly or sandy. Many have restaurants or bars nearby and the vibe is social and laid back. Some of the best beaches near town are Bacvice Beach, Žnjan Beach, and Kasjuni Beach.

7. Shopping

Shopping and sightseeing are intermixed in town. Make sure you don't miss the Old Market, which is the city's main outdoor market. There are many shops all through the old town as well.

8. Historical Sights

The old town spreads out from Diocletian's Palace and People's Square. It's filled with cobblestone streets and restaurants that spill into the outdoors.

9. The Costs

Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Split might be a very affordable destination for you. Check out the travel costs for Split here or see if Split is expensive here.




Is Split worth visiting in the Summer?

The warm weather in summer is one of the reasons people visit at this time of year. Temperatures average around 26°C (80°F) with daily high temperatures often more than 31°C (87°F).

The peak season for travel is summer in Split, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This is an extremely popular destination, and in the high season it's busier than usual as this is when most people are able to travel. Expect large crowds of tourists, longer lines, and higher prices for hotels. On the other hand, you'll find that everything is open and you'll have a wide array of activities, things to do, and places to eat.

Visiting the nearby beaches is one of the most popular things to do this time of year, so spend some time enjoying the waves and sand. You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. This is a great time of year to relax at the beach, browse the museums, and enjoy the amenities of a resort. Also, you can check out the big city activities, the historic old town, and the nightlife.


Summer Weather in Split
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 26°C (80°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
August 26°C (79°F) 50 mm (2 in)
September 22°C (72°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)

Is Split worth visiting in the Autumn?

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Split. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 18°C (64°F).

Autumn is a great time of year to explore the numerous museums and landmarks around town. They are fun for the whole family as well great for couples. You'll find plenty to do during autumn, as you'll be able to browse around the old town, spend time at the museums, and discover the big city activities.


Autumn Weather in Split
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
November 13°C (56°F) 108 mm (4.3 in)
December 10°C (49°F) 100 mm (3.9 in)

Is Split worth visiting in the Winter?

This is the low season for travel in Split. This is an extremely touristy destination, so in the low season you'll still see plenty of other travelers when you visit, but less than other times of the year. Good deals are to be found on hotels and tours because it's not the best time of year to visit.

The weather in Split can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 8°C (47°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the museums and landmarks, the cuisine, and the historic old town. Also, you can experience the nightlife and the big city activities.


Winter Weather in Split
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January 8°C (47°F) 83 mm (3.3 in)
February 9°C (48°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
March 11°C (52°F) 75 mm (3 in)

Is Split worth visiting in the Spring?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 15°C (59°F).

Spring is the shoulder season for travel in Split, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. As a very touristy destination, even in the shoulder season you'll see plenty of tourists when you visit. However, good prices and deals are to be found at this time of year.

This is a great time of year to browse the shops, wander through the museums, and admire the historic sights. Also, you can dance the night away.


Spring Weather in Split
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 15°C (59°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
May 20°C (67°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
June 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)

Things to Consider Before Visiting Split

Lots of Tourists
Split sees a high number of visitors every year, which means you might have to wait in line and deal with large crowds during your visit.

Related

What is Split most famous for?

Split is most famous for its historical sights, high energy coastal setting, and waterfront promenades. People visit this impressive city for its great nightlife. It's also known for museums and attractions, food, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, beaches, and shopping. And many travelers come for the historical sights, as well. It is often described as historic, active, touristy, fun-filled, and budget-friendly.


What is the most famous sight in Split?

The most popular sight in Split is Diocletian's Palace. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Split on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Diocletian's Palace and other attractions here.

How touristy is Split? Is it a popular city to visit?

Split is a very touristy city that attracts travelers from around the globe. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)


  • Private Walks & Storytelling - the best small group tour in Split: $235
  • Split Palace & Old Town -Private walking tour- Entrance included: $202
  • SPLIT-History Tour of Diocletian's Palace & Old Town with Daniela: $30
  • Exclusive Blue Lagoon Luxury Boat Tour from Split: $84
  • Split Walking Tour: History, Legends & Tales: $25
  • Full Day ATV Tour From Split: $213
  • Coffee, storytelling & walk - The best private tour of Split: $165
  • Chill Private Walking Tour of Diocletian's Palace: $86

How long should I spend in Split?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Split is two to four days. Since Split has a variety of activities such as nightlife, most people need this much time to see and do everything here.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Split?, Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Split?, and Should I spend 1 or 2 weeks in Split?.

For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Croatia.

Other Cities to Explore