The Ultimate Split (Croatia) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Split, Croatia? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

With a population of 160,000, Split is the second largest city in Croatia.
Split enjoys 2,800 hours of sunlight each year.
The city of Split is painted in the blue and white colors of its much loved football team, Hajduk.
Split is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Diocletian’s Palace.
Nickname: Mediterranean Flower.

Currency: Euro (EUR).
Spoken languages: Croatian (English spoken by those in the tourism industry).
Best time to visit: from June to September (the summer months). May and October are great shoulder season (off peak) options.
Great festival to catch: Summer Festival of Split for cultural events (July-August).
Arriving via airport:
– Bus #37 (operated by Promet Split) costs 1.50 EUR (runs every 30 mins during the day).
– Taxi to the city centre of Split costs ~35 EUR.
Emergency phone numbers: police: 192, ambulance: 194

Best hostel for solo travelers in Split: Hurricane Hostel. A small, comfortable, and cozy establishment in a perfect location – right in the old town. Friendly & welcoming staff. Not a party hostel, but great for meeting fellow travelers.
Most of the must-see sights of Split are located within walking distance of the city centre.
You may be able to find a cheap home-stay room at the bus or ferry terminal from locals offering their rooms!

As most of Split’s major attractions are located within walking distance of each other, walking is the most practical way of getting around Split.
A bus network runs across the entire city throughout the day. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver.
There are also buses connecting Split to other coastal towns, making it easier for day trips (e.g., Trogir, Omis).
There are a number of rental places that offer scooters and bicycles for rent.
Uber and Bolt are available ride-hailing options in Split.

Drinking age is 18, and last call is 1 AM (some establishments are open all night).
Split has a vibrant nightlife all year round, however it is heaving during the summer months when many events and festivals draw the crowds.
Riva is home to many bars and restaurants (given the prices, locals may classify Riva promenade as a “tourist trap”).
Head to Bačvice Beach for the nightclubs.
Looking for a cozy bar to stop for a drink? Try Sanctuary Cantina or Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar (live music).
Fabrika for dancing.
Zenta Club for electronic music lovers.

Diocletian’s Palace: marvel at the impressive ancient ruins (built in 350 AD) and get lost in the markets hidden in the palace cellar.
St. Duje’s Cathedral: built in 305 AD, this is the oldest cathedral in the world. Climb the bell tower for a fabulous view of Split.
Riva, main city promenade: visit the many shops, cafes, restaurants and markets that line the waterfront of this stunning port.
Check out the city’s two sphinxes, originally brought from Egypt to Split by Diocletian.
Statue of Gregory of Nin: adjust your hidden money belt, and put your camera to one side as you rub Gregory’s toe. It screams tourist, but rubbing the tow is said to bring good luck!
The Split City Museum and the Croatian Maritime Museum are recommended for those interested in the history and culture of the city.
Fan of Game of Thrones? Take the Game of Thrones filming locations tour.
Klis Fortress, just outside Split, for panoramic views.
Day trip ideas to nearby islands: Hvar, Brač, or Vis.
– Also, the beautiful Krka National Park is about 1 hour from Split.
Many museums offer student discounts with valid ID.

Take a stroll up Marjan hill, admiring the view of Split and the surrounding islands. Wander through the St. Jeronimus Caves.
Varos is one of the oldest parts of town, once home to peasants and fishermen. Stroll through this fascinating part of town, and take in the unique architecture.
Stroll through Split Green Market (Pazar) for local produce and atmosphere.
Sunset walk along Zapadna Obala (Western Promenade).

Great restaurants that locals love (strong emphasis on seafood): Konoba Varoš ($$), Lučica ($$), Ćiri Biri Bela, Nevera Tavern, Adriatic Grašo, and Konoba Fetivi.
Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar ($$-$$$) for modern Croatian cuisine.
Vegetarian/vegan food options: Makrovega or Vegehit.
Where to find good cheap eats: anywhere between Old Town and the bus station.
Traditional dishes to try: Pašticada or Peka.
Try local wines like Plavac Mali or Pošip.

Avoid the striptease bars – these are a tourist trap.
Bačvice beach is the home of Picugin, a traditional beach game that is played using a small bat. Each summer, the world championship is played in Split.
Want to drink craft beer with the locals? Do as they do – buy it at the Little Beer Shop and drink by the sea on Matejuska.
Dangerous areas: Split is a safe place to visit. As with any place that attracts a lot of visitors, it pays to keep your belongings close by at all times.

Recommended trip duration: 1-2 days