Welcome to Split, a vibrant Croatian city where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean charm on the stunning Adriatic coast. Prepare to be enchanted by its Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere, offering a memorable experience for every traveler.
Key takeaways for Split: quick snapshot of costs, timing, and standout experiences.
Expect hot, sunny weather perfect for beach activities and island hopping. This is the busiest and most expensive time, with large crowds, a bustling atmosphere, and peak prices for everything from hotels to dining. Booking well in advance is essential.
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in the city center
High season
€30+ • per night
Dining out
Includes local pastries (burek) or a sandwich, per person
High season
€5+ • per meal
Transport
Single ride within Split city zones
High season
€1.5+ • per ride
Things to do
Entrance fee for the historical cellars, per person
High season
€7+ • per person
Accommodation
Shared room, per person per night in the city center
Hostel dorm bed
Shared room, per person per night in the city center
Budget apartment/studio
Self-catering accommodation outside the immediate city core, per night
Mid-range hotel room
Double room in a 3-star hotel, per night
Luxury hotel room
High-end 4-5 star hotel, per night
Dining out
Includes local pastries (burek) or a sandwich, per person
Budget meal (e.g., street food)
Includes local pastries (burek) or a sandwich, per person
Mid-range restaurant meal
Main course with a drink in a casual restaurant, per person
Fine dining experience
Three-course meal in a high-end restaurant, per person (excluding wine)
Coffee/Cappuccino
Standard cup from a cafe
Local beer (0.5L)
Draught beer in a bar or restaurant
Transport
Single ride within Split city zones
Local bus ticket
Single ride within Split city zones
Taxi ride (short distance)
Typical fare for a 10-15 minute ride within the city
Ferry to nearby island (e.g., Brač)
One-way ticket for a foot passenger to Supetar (Brač)
Airport bus transfer
One-way ticket from Split Airport to city center
Things to do
Entrance fee for the historical cellars, per person
Diocletian's Palace basements
Entrance fee for the historical cellars, per person
Split walking tour
Guided group tour of the Old Town and Diocletian's Palace (1.5-2 hours), per person
Krka National Park day trip
Organized tour including transport and entrance fee from Split, per person
Split to Hvar catamaran
One-way ticket for a passenger catamaran to Hvar Town
Rafting on Cetina River
Half-day guided rafting tour including equipment and transfer, per person
Prices are indicative and may change based on availability, demand, and inclusions.
Welcome to Split, a vibrant Croatian city where ancient history meets modern Mediterranean charm on the stunning Adriatic coast. Prepare to be enchanted by its Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere, offering a memorable experience for every traveler.
Split's Mediterranean climate creates distinct seasons that significantly influence both its atmosphere and your budget. The high season, spanning June, July, and August, sees the city bustling with tourists, festivals, and vibrant energy. During these peak months, expect accommodation, flights, and popular activities to be at their most expensive, with advanced booking highly recommended.
Conversely, the low season from November to March offers a quieter, cooler experience with significantly lower prices across the board. While some tourist amenities may have reduced hours, this period is ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking an authentic local feel without the crowds.
The shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) present a fantastic balance. With pleasant temperatures, fewer visitors, and moderate prices, these months are perfect for exploring Split's historical sites and natural beauty without overspending. This offers a sweet spot for those looking for value and comfortable exploration.
Accommodation costs in Split vary widely depending on the season and type of lodging. During the summer high season, prices for hotels, apartments, and even hostels can surge, making it essential to book well in advance. Off-season, you can find excellent deals on charming guesthouses and apartments, offering more space and amenities for your euro.
Dining in Split caters to all budgets. For authentic and affordable meals, seek out local 'konobas' (traditional taverns) or pizzerias, especially those away from the main tourist areas like the Riva. A meal with drinks can range from 10-20 EUR per person at these spots. Waterfront restaurants and upscale dining establishments will naturally command higher prices.
Step back in time within the walls of Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that isn't just a ruin, but a living, breathing city. Explore ancient Roman streets, hidden courtyards, and bustling squares. While it's a marvel year-round, visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring/autumn) allows for a more intimate experience, dodging the peak summer crowds and enjoying milder temperatures perfect for extensive exploration. It's largely free to wander, with some attractions inside requiring a fee.
Immerse yourself in the daily rhythm of Split at the bustling Pazar (Green Market) and Peškarija (Fish Market). Here you'll find an explosion of colors and sounds, with fresh, seasonal produce, local cheeses, olives, and just-caught seafood at remarkably good prices compared to restaurants. It's a fantastic way to experience local life and assemble a delicious, budget-friendly picnic or ingredients for your own cooking, vibrant in any season but especially lively in spring and early autumn.
Escape the city's hustle and bustle with a refreshing climb or walk up Marjan Hill, Split's verdant 'lungs'. Offering stunning panoramic views of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and surrounding islands, it's a perfect spot for hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying nature. The cooler temperatures of spring, autumn, and even winter make it ideal for exploring the numerous trails and chapels without the intense summer heat, providing a free and invigorating outdoor experience.
While Diocletian's Palace is easily walkable, utilize local Promet Split buses to reach popular beaches like Bačvice or Žnjan without relying on expensive taxis. Purchase tickets at kiosks beforehand for a slight discount, or directly from the driver.
Although many establishments accept card payments, it's highly advisable to carry some Croatian Kuna in smaller denominations. Market stalls, local bakeries, and some traditional konobas (taverns) often prefer or only accept cash, especially for minor transactions.
To further manage your food budget, consider staying in self-catering apartments and utilizing Split's vibrant green market (Pazar) for fresh produce, cheeses, and local delicacies. This allows you to prepare some of your own meals, significantly cutting down on daily expenses while experiencing local life.
Many of Split's most iconic attractions, like exploring the ancient streets of Diocletian's Palace, walking the Riva promenade, or hiking Marjan Hill, can be enjoyed for free. However, specific sites within the Palace, such as the Cathedral of St. Domnius or Jupiter's Temple, typically have modest entrance fees, usually a few euros.
Day trips are a popular way to experience the region, but they do add to your overall budget. Excursions to nearby islands like Hvar or Brač, or national parks like Krka Waterfalls, can range from 30-100 EUR per person depending on the tour operator and what's included. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for public ferries to islands for a more economical experience.
Getting around Split is generally affordable. The city center is easily walkable, and local buses provide an inexpensive way to reach areas further afield, with single tickets costing a couple of euros. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available for convenience, but will be more expensive. If planning to explore the wider Dalmatian coast, renting a car offers flexibility but incurs costs for rental fees, fuel, and parking.
Indulge in the rich flavors of Dalmatian cuisine, from incredibly fresh seafood caught daily to traditional 'peka' dishes slow-cooked under a bell. Split's dining scene ranges from casual Konobas (traditional taverns) to upscale restaurants, ensuring options for every palate and budget.
While dining costs can escalate in tourist-heavy areas during summer, you can still enjoy authentic, delicious meals without overspending. Seek out local eateries away from the main promenade, explore daily specials, or utilize local markets for fresh ingredients if your accommodation includes kitchen facilities.
Generally, a meal at a casual restaurant can be quite affordable, but fine dining or fresh seafood can quickly increase your daily food budget.
Split offers a diverse array of lodging options, ranging from charming guesthouses nestled within Diocletian's Palace walls to modern apartments and beachfront resorts along the coast. Accommodation prices vary significantly based on location, type, and crucially, the time of year you visit.
During the high season (June-August), expect significantly higher rates and limited availability, necessitating bookings well in advance. Traveling during the shoulder or low seasons provides more flexibility and better value, allowing you to secure comfortable stays without breaking the bank.
Split experiences a dramatic shift in atmosphere and pricing throughout the year. Peak summer months, from June to August, draw large crowds and premium prices for virtually all services, from accommodation to tours.
For a more balanced experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October). You'll enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more moderate costs, offering a sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers. The low season (November-March) offers the quietest experience and lowest prices, though some tourist services may be reduced.
Exploring Split is easy, with many attractions accessible on foot, particularly within the historic city center. For venturing further, local buses provide an efficient and affordable way to get around, while ferries offer opportunities for island hopping to nearby gems.
Beyond transport, factor in costs for attraction entrance fees, guided tours, and souvenirs. Popular sites like Diocletian's Palace components and various museums typically have entry charges. While these can add up, especially during peak season when demand for tours is high, balancing paid activities with free walks and exploring Split's natural beauty can help manage your budget.
Public transport is generally inexpensive, and while tour prices can fluctuate seasonally, early booking can sometimes secure better deals. Consider multi-attraction passes if available to save on entrance fees.
Just a short bus ride from Split, the charming island town of Trogir offers another UNESCO World Heritage experience. Its remarkably preserved Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, including the impressive Cathedral of St. Lawrence, makes it feel like an open-air museum. Visiting in the shoulder or low season means fewer tourists, more serene exploration of its narrow stone streets, and often better deals on local eateries compared to peak summer.
For truly authentic Croatian cuisine that won't break the bank, venture slightly away from the main Riva promenade and seek out a traditional 'konoba'. These family-run taverns offer hearty, homemade dishes like 'peka' (slow-cooked meat or octopus), fresh grilled fish, and local pasta at more reasonable prices than tourist-centric restaurants. This is a year-round delight, but in the cooler months, the cozy ambiance provides a warm refuge, and you'll find more locals dining out, offering a genuine taste of Split's culinary scene.
Take a short, scenic local bus ride to Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exquisite Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. During high season, it offers a charming but bustling escape; consider an early start. In the low season, Trogir is quieter, allowing for a more serene exploration of its medieval streets and impressive Cathedral. Opting for the local bus keeps costs down significantly compared to organized tours, making it an excellent budget-conscious day trip.
Immerse yourself in local life at Split's bustling Green Market (Pazar). High season offers a vibrant array of fresh produce and bustling energy; low season reveals a more authentic local rhythm and seasonal specialties. Grab fresh fruits, local cheese, and cured meats for a budget-friendly picnic, or try a traditional Burek from a nearby bakery. Dining out is cheaper and more authentic in low season, but even in summer, seek out 'konobas' slightly away from the main tourist paths for better value.
Delve into the heart of Split, exploring the ancient Roman palace. In high season, visit early morning or late evening to beat the crowds and heat. During the low season, enjoy a tranquil, more intimate experience, wandering the labyrinthine streets at your leisure. Always free to wander the palace grounds; only specific attractions like the Cathedral require tickets, making it a budget-friendly cultural immersion.
Escape the city's hustle with a climb up Marjan Hill, offering stunning panoramic views of Split, the Adriatic, and surrounding islands. In summer, it's a refreshing escape from the heat, leading to hidden coves perfect for a swim. In cooler months, it's an ideal spot for invigorating hikes, with fewer people and clearer air. This free activity is a perfect budget-friendly way to enjoy nature and spectacular sunsets any time of year.
Discover the authentic Split in the old fishing village of Matejuška and the charming Varoš neighborhood, nestled just behind the Riva. These areas offer a glimpse into local life with narrow streets, traditional stone houses, and small, family-run eateries often more affordable than those in the Palace. In high season, they provide a peaceful respite from the crowds; in low season, you'll experience a genuine sense of community. This is a free exploration providing rich cultural insight and often cheaper dining options.
For an optimal experience balancing pleasant weather and fewer crowds, plan your visit during the shoulder seasons—late April to May or September to October. You'll avoid the intense summer heat and peak season prices for accommodation and tours, with most attractions and businesses still fully operational.
For an authentic and budget-friendly meal or picnic, bypass tourist traps and head to Pazar, Split's vibrant green market just outside the East gate of the Palace. Here, you can find fresh local produce, cheeses, cured meats, and bread, perfect for a self-made lunch.
Don't expect a grab-and-go coffee experience. Locals cherish their leisurely coffee rituals, often spending an hour or more socializing over a single cup. Embrace this relaxed pace, order a kava, and soak in the atmosphere – it's an integral part of Split's social life, and service reflects this unhurried approach.
If you want to enjoy the beautiful Adriatic Sea without the scorching summer heat and overwhelming crowds, consider visiting in late May, early June, or September. The sea is usually warm enough for swimming, and you'll find beaches much less crowded. Accommodation prices are also more reasonable than in the peak months of July and August.
While Split is generally safe, be mindful of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Diocletian's Palace, Riva promenade, and bustling markets during the high season. Keep your wallet and phone secure, and avoid flashing expensive items to prevent opportunistic theft. Always be aware of your surroundings.
Restaurant prices can inflate significantly in the high season. To save money and experience authentic flavours, seek out 'konobas' (traditional taverns) slightly off the main tourist paths. Look for daily lunch menus ('marenda' or 'gablec') for excellent value, especially in the shoulder and low seasons when locals frequent these spots more.
During peak summer months (June-August), Split's city centre and surrounding areas become heavily congested. Parking is scarce and expensive. Rely on walking, local buses, or explore the islands by ferry to save time and frustration. Consider renting a scooter for shorter distances if you venture outside the immediate city center.
For better value and a more authentic experience, especially if staying for several nights, opt for private apartments over hotels. Many locals rent out spare rooms or entire flats, offering competitive prices and often including kitchen facilities, which helps cut down on dining costs. Prices are significantly lower outside of June, July, and August.
