Split Holidays

Q: Should I hire a car in Split?

It's not necessary to hire a car in Split unless you're planning to explore out-of-the-way places. You can catch a direct bus from the airport to the city centre, share a transfer car or take a taxi. Since this is an ancient city, the streets are narrow and you'd be restricted to parking outside the old town. It's all pedestrianised within the old town walls and on many urban streets, as well as on the seaside promenade. Hiring a bike is a good option if you want to get to the beach, and there's a good bus network.

Q: What’s the weather like in Split?

Thanks to its balmy Southern European climate, Split remains temperate throughout the year. In summer, it’s nearly always sunny, and it’s milder but pleasant in other seasons.

Q: Which is the best beach in Split?

Families love Split’s central beach Bačvice for the convenience, but it can get rather busy – quieter beaches are just a short drive away from the city.

Q: When's the best time to visit Split?

Split is very busy in summer, and very hot, so you're probably better off picking a shoulder season like April/May or September/October. The weather will be cooler. In the autumn you can still swim comfortably and in early May you have the festival of Sv Duje. You'll see a flower show, art installations, a rowing regatta and religious processions, along with live music, dancing and other events. The climate is unpredictable in winter, and you might get hot sun or occasional snow. On New Year's Eve, you can see the Salsa Silvester festival, Europe's biggest dance celebration.

Q: Is Split family-friendly?

Croatia has always been known as a child-friendly holiday destination and it’s one of Europe's safest. You'll find plenty of activities in Split and the Dalmatian islands, apart from the fine beaches. Walking tours of the old city take you to ancient walls and an emperor's palace, or you could hire a bike. You can visit the fortress at Klis, or take the little road train up to Marjan Hill for a view of the city. At Znjan sandy beach your kids can trampoline or jump around on bouncy castles, or ride a paddleboat.

Q: What is Split famous for?

You'd go to Split primarily for Emperor Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's one of the best-preserved Roman buildings anywhere. You'll also see its old medieval walls, a Venetian tower and a baroque palace, not to mention a maze of ancient twisting streets. Split has always been famous for its beaches and islands and now you'll find that it's also known for its nightclubs and dance scene, its unique ball game called picigin, and Game of Thrones. Many of the show's scenes were filmed in and around the old town, the palace cellars and the fortress of Klis.

Q: Are there beaches in Split?

You'll discover both sandy and pebbled beaches around Split and some wilder rocky places where you might need swim shoes. Trstenik beach is pebbled and looked after by the big hotel, so there are sunbeds and changing facilities. Bacvice city beach is sandy but usually crowded, so you could walk for 20 minutes to Kastelet beach instead. It's not so busy and there are bars. You can get a bus or bike to the beautiful Marjan area, or take a boat trip out to the island beaches of Brac or Hvar.

Q: Which part of Split should I stay in?

If you've never been to Split before, you'll probably choose the historic old town. It's in the centre of the city and you'll be close to the major attractions and eateries. You'll find something to suit all budgets but, if that's too busy, you could choose the Veli Varos area. You'll still be close to the old town but it's generally quieter while, east of the old town, the Radunica district is good for lower-cost hotels. If you fancy staying by the beach, Bacvice is closer to the city's nightlife, and Znjan is a good family location.

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History and urban cool in Croatia

A crumbling Roman palace with a backdrop of the Dinaric Alps, fringed by the Adriatic Sea’s turquoise waters and urban beaches – it’s hard to find a more sublime setting for a city break than Split. The largest city in Croatia’s Dalmatia historical region, it’s a maze of cobblestone streets that unfurl into charming alleyways. Taking time to appreciate the city’s history is a must-do on Split city breaks, whether it’s to wonder at the remains of Diocletian’s Palace (part of a Unesco World Heritage Site) or pore over classical sculptures and Palaeolithic artefacts at the Archaeological Museum.

A visit to Croatia’s second-largest city doesn’t have to be one long history lesson though, as Split is also home to some of the country’s best cuisine and atmospheric cocktail bars. The city’s haphazard layout makes for a fun bar crawl – but, be warned, you may not be able to find the same place again come the next day. City breaks to Split aren’t complete without a visit to Bačvice beach. Although you’ll find wilder beaches a short drive away, Bačvice is a great family spot. Want to explore further afield? Catch a boat to the islands of Hvar, Brač and Vis from Split’s ferry port. For a city break that combines seaside cool with a ancient charm, Split’s a sure-fire winner.

Need to know

Language
Croatian

Currency
Euro

Time zone
GMT +1

Flight time
2hrs 10mins

* Average time from London Gatwick to Split

All resorts in Split

Baska Voda

Biograd Na Moru

Brac Island

from

£593 pp

Brela

from

£488 pp

Gradac

Tisno

Trogir

from

£360 pp

Tucepi

from

£377 pp

Vodice

from

£510 pp

Vranjic

from

£621 pp

Explore our map of Split

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The palace walls
The Unesco-protected Diocletian’s Palace is a remarkable sight. Walk its lattice of cobbled streets, or drink a cup of coffee in one of its cute cafés.
Klis Fortress
Just north of the city are the historic ruins of Klis Fortress, which stand on a 360-metre-high hill. Spend time climbing over the fortifications before visiting its small museum.
Cathedral Sveti Duje
Set in the mausoleum of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, Cathedral Sveti Duje is a remarkable building. For a small fee, climb to the top of the bell tower and enjoy fabulous views.

Enjoy 7 nights in Split from

£360 pp

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Average weather in Split

January
10°C
8 days of rain
February
11°C
7 days of rain
March
14°C
6 days of rain
April
17°C
7 days of rain
May
21°C
7 days of rain
June
26°C
4 days of rain
July
29°C
2 days of rain
August
29°C
2 days of rain
September
25°C
5 days of rain
October
20°C
6 days of rain
November
16°C
10 days of rain
December
12°C
7 days of rain

Exciting tours and activities in Split

From priority access for attractions, to day trips to historic sites, here’s our must see activities in Split

Trogir and Split
Trogir and Split
50 reviews
Sitting at opposite ends of the Gulf of Kastela, Split and Trogir offer two contrasting visions of the past. Split is a bustling city built around a Roman emperor's palace while Trogir is a medieval town set upon an islet – and both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.First, you'll visit Split, the hub of the Dalmatian coast. The star of the show is the vast third century palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian. Today it doubles as Split's old town and has been used to film Game of Thrones. You'll visit two markets and grab a typical snack at Mlinice Pantana, before heading to Trogir.Stacked with medieval palaces and churches, and a Romanesque-Gothic cathedral, it packs a lot of heritage into its narrow, cobbled streets.
Free cancellation
from £68 pp
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Mostar
Mostar
14 reviews
East meets west in Mostar – a city where minarets and church spires rise above ancient stone houses. You'll cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina, and discover sights such as the world-famous Stari Most bridge and the bazaar.
Free cancellation
from £72 pp
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Dubrovnik Tour
Dubrovnik Tour
77 reviews
Exploring Dubrovnik is like uncovering a treasure trove of historical masterpieces. And on this tour, you'll discover the Renaissance architecture, ancient palaces and historic churches that have earned Dubrovnik the nickname of ‘Pearl of the Adriatic'.
Free cancellation
from £81 pp
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Morning shuttle bus to Makarska
Morning shuttle bus to Makarska
28 reviews
A horseshoe-shaped bay on the Adriatic coast, Makarska makes a great daytrip destination. Take advantage of this hassle-free half-day transport option and visit this classy Croatian town. Spend the morning exploring medieval churches, shopping for souvenirs in stylish boutiques, or sitting in bars and restaurants on the palm-fringed promenade. The choice is yours.
Free cancellation
from £22 pp
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Biokovo Nature Park Tour
Biokovo Nature Park Tour
7 reviews
Standing tall over Makarska, the Biokovo mountain range is a sight to behold – and explore. You'll venture into Biokovo Nature Park on this half-day panoramic tour, which brings you close to nature without the need for hiking long distances. The highlight of your journey will be a visit to the skywalk where you can step out onto the glass walkway to experience the sweeping views.You'll drive through Biokovo Nature Park, a haven for endemic flora and fauna as well as a great viewpoint. We'll take a break at 800 metres above sea level for a photo stop, with your guide to point out the distant islands and landmarks. Next up, it's the awe-inspiring Skywalk, situated at 1228 metres above sea level. Step onto the curved structure with glass walkway and prepare for more dazzling views of the Makarska Riviera, and several islands.After the thrill of the Skywalk, we'll take a calming short walk surrounded by nature. This leads to a picnic spot where you'll be offered a hot drink and a piece of cake before setting off back down the mountain through the Nature Park.
Free cancellation
from £51 pp
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Olive Oil School & Gastronomical Gem
Olive Oil School & Gastronomical Gem
Combine a trip to one of TV's most recognisable filming locations with Croatian food fit for a king, and you're in for an epic day out. On this trip, you'll visit a family-run farm to taste top Croatian treats, then re-live your favourite scenes from Game of Thrones at Klis Fortress – featured as the city of Mereen on the hit HBO show.
Free cancellation
from £32 pp
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Full-day tour of Krka National Park’s waterfalls from Brač
Full-day tour of Krka National Park’s waterfalls from Brač
5 reviews
The great outdoors don't come any greater than Krka National Park, one of Croatia's wildest natural treasures. You'll get a chance to breathe in the freshest of airs and explore vegetation-rich and waterfall-splashed landscapes. Tomislav, a local guide, says, “It's a paradise not only for people, but for the 860 species of plants and 240 species of birds and fish that call Krka National Park home.”Krka National Park is a protected place of thundering waterfalls, lakes and riverside walks. After a brief introduction, you'll have the day to stroll along the wooden waterside walkways and admire the scenery. But the park's crowning glory is Skradinski Buk – a huge natural pool with 17 cascading waterfalls bursting through the trees. Tomislav adds, “The fairytale tiers of Skradinski Buk were formed by layers of travertine limestone building up from the mineral springs that feed it.”You'll stop here for a snack at a local restaurant with a view that you'll want to lock away and remember for ever. You've then got all afternoon to explore the park for yourself. You can go wildlife spotting along the trails, as nightingales, herons, falcons and owls are all regulars here. Plus, the water is so see-through-clear here that it's easy to spot fish in the waters of the Krka River. Simply strolling through the park's walkways gives you a whole new appreciate for the power and artistry of Mother Nature.
Free cancellation
from £110 pp
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Omiš and River Cetina Tour
Omiš and River Cetina Tour
15 reviews
If you're in search of postcard-perfect sights and typical Croatian food, then this tour is just for you. You'll journey along the coast from Split, through the mountains and on to the coastal town of Omis. There'll also be a boat trip up River Cetina, where lunch awaits at a local restaurant.We'll set off in pursuit of stunning Dalmatian scenery along Makarska Riviera, gradually winding our way over the mountains to Omis. Hop on a boat to cruise your up the River Cetina, watching it carve through the deep gorge as it winds from the highlands down towards the teal-tinted sea.We'll disembark for a tasty lunch at a local restaurant, followed by some free time to relax by the river. After the cruise back downstream, it's time to explore Omis and its colourful history. You'll finish the day wandering the churches, fortresses and narrow streets – once walked by the notorious Omis pirates.
Free cancellation
from £73 pp
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Panoramic City Tour Split
Panoramic City Tour Split
The Dalmatian coast's biggest city, Split is both easy and enjoyable to get lost in. But if you want to tick off all the top sights first, this trip is just the ticket. You'll stop by Bačvice beach, take a tuk tuk tour of the old town to see the Game-of-Thrones-famous Diocletian's Palace, then visit some standout spots overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Free cancellation
from £36 pp
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Brač island tour from Supetar with wine-tasting
Brač island tour from Supetar with wine-tasting
This half-day tour of Brač just gets better and better. You'll visit an olive oil museum in Skrip, see traditional stonemasons at work in Pucisca, and end the day on a high at Vidova Gora – the highest point in the Adriatic islands. Add in some Dalmatian wine tasting to the mix and it's a great introduction to the island's history and culture.
Free cancellation
from £77 pp
Book now

all tours and experiences are provided by

Why book with us?

Find out more

Easy ways to pay
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
Freedom to change
Change your holiday online with low change fees up to 28 days before departure
Refund guarantee
Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as credit
Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
Great offers & discounts
Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK
Extras included
Our beach holidays include a 23kg bag and transfers
Holiday better
We offer a selection of certified sustainable hotels for better holiday choices
Best price guarantee
We’ll beat the price if you find the same holiday cheaper elsewhere
Low deposit
Book your holiday with a deposit of just £60 per person
Easy ways to pay
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
Freedom to change
Change your holiday online with low change fees up to 28 days before departure
Refund guarantee
Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as credit
Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
Great offers & discounts
Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK
Extras included
Our beach holidays include a 23kg bag and transfers
Holiday better
We offer a selection of certified sustainable hotels for better holiday choices
Best price guarantee
We’ll beat the price if you find the same holiday cheaper elsewhere
Low deposit
Book your holiday with a deposit of just £60 per person
Easy ways to pay
Spread the cost, paying in instalments as often as you like up to 28 days before you travel
Freedom to change
Change your holiday online with low change fees up to 28 days before departure
Refund guarantee
Cancel up to 60 days before you travel and get your deposit back as credit
Thousands of hotels
Discover Europe's most loved hotels in the best beach and city locations
Great offers & discounts
Unbeatable prices, free child places, plus other discounts and deals
Flexible flights
Flight times to suit you from airports across the UK

Your Split questions, answered

What is Split known for?Which is the best beach in Split?When's the best time to visit Split?Is Split family-friendly?What’s the weather like in Split?Are there beaches in Split?Which part of Split should I stay in?What is Split famous for?Should I hire a car in Split?

Without a doubt, the Roman palace is Split’s most famous attraction. But it’s also known for its ferry port, connecting the mainland to Hvar, Brač and Vis islands.

Enjoy 7 nights in Split from

£360 pp

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