Time in Split
Diocletian’s Palace is one of the most impressive Roman ruins globally, beside Split’s sparkling harbour. It was built from dazzling white stone quarried on the nearby island of Brač and only served its original purpose as a military fort for ten years. Over the centuries, bits and pieces have been added and removed, making its narrow streets and alleyways an architectural history lesson. The Palace is alive today, with over 3,000 people calling it home. It houses apartments, cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, medieval churches, and Roman ruins. A particular attraction is Narodni Trg, ‘People’s Square’, where sitting at one of the bars is a joy, as the Palace’s lively atmosphere is composed of electric box carts, gaggles of tourists, old grannies, nuns, and mothers pushing prams. Exploring the narrow lanes after the crowds have gone, with only the echo of your footsteps on the cobblestones, is an unforgettable experience, too.
Drinking coffee is a daily ritual in Croatia, known for its strong taste with an Italian stle and a Balkan bite. Serving a glass of water with every cup is customary, and it is often enjoyed while chatting with friends.
Stopping for coffee is an affordable way to take in some of the city’s most famous attractions. One of the popular spots is located along the Riva, while others prefer the outdoor tables in the restaurants clustered on Narodni Trg. For a unique experience, visit Luxors and enjoy sitting on cushions in the shade of ancient Peristil columns while listening to classical singers busking in the old stone vestibule.
If Luxors’ prices seem steep, head to the nearby markets where a coffee will cost you less than a pound. Another option is to go down to Bacvice beach, where locals sit under sunshades and enjoy the view of Brać. The cost of coffee varies depending on the location, with the city centre being the most expensive.
The Hajduk Split football team has an incredibly dedicated fan base in Split known as the Torcida. The city is adorned with murals and souvenir stalls selling caps and scarves in support of the team. Locals are passionate about their beloved Bandits, and conversations often revolve around their exploits. The group represents the city's spirit - when the former Yugoslav president, Tito, wanted them to move to Belgrade and become the national army team, they refused in no uncertain terms.
Tickets to matches at Stadion Poljud are affordable, and fans gather for pre-match beers at the makeshift grills in front of the ground. It’s a family affair, with groups of adults and children arriving excitedly. For the whole match-day experience, sit near the Torcida. These local Hajduk fanatics spend the match chanting, singing and letting off flares, only occasionally watching the game - usually only after a goal has been scored.
Froggyland is a popular attraction in Split, highly rated on TripAdvisor. It boasts a collection of over 500 stuffed frogs exhibited in entertaining dioramas. According to the brochure, visiting Froggyland is one of the two things you will never forget - the other being your first love.
Ferenc Mere, a taxidermist and artist, has created these dioramas by artfully arranging the preserved frogs to recreate life in the late 1800s. The exhibits feature frogs performing activities such as blacksmithing, attending school, participating in a court hearing, and even joining a circus.
Froggyland provides a refreshing break from Split’s hot summer weather and an unforgettable visitor experience.
The stretch of coastline extending from Park Pomoraca towards Lučica Zenta is an ideal spot for leisure and relaxation in Split. It features a range of promenades, sandy and pebbly beaches, and coves that can be easily accessed from the harbour. Many travellers visit this place for a refreshing swim while waiting for their ferry.
The part of the stretch closest to the city is the most developed, with numerous bars and restaurants and even a cinema. You can dive directly into the crystal-clear waters from the promenade or wade in from one of the small beaches.
Walking beyond Ovčice to the marina at Lučica Zenta is recommended for those seeking a genuine glimpse into local life. Here, you’ll find men playing foursome handball, old-timers enjoying a beer and catching up, and mothers taking a stroll with their babies.
