The Ultimate Split (Croatia) Solo Travel Guide

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

QUICK FACTS

With a population of 170,000, 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.
Nickname: Mediterranean Flower

Currency: Croatian Kuna (HRK).
Spoken languages: Croatian (English spoken by those in the tourism industry).
Best time to visit: from June to September (the summer months).
Arriving via airport: a taxi to the city centre of Split costs 270 HRK. Alternatively, bus number 37 runs regularly throughout the day and costs 30 HRK.

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.
There are many budget hotels and hostels nestled amongst the back streets as well as some midrange and pricier options down towards the Harbour.
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 and start from 11 HRK (single fare).
There are a number of rental places that offer scooters and bicycles for rent. Prices start from 250 HRK for the day.

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).

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!

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.

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.
Great restaurants that locals love (strong emphasis on seafood): Konoba Varoš ($$), Lučica ($$), Ćiri Biri Bela, Nevera Tavern, Adriatic Grašo, and Konoba Fetivi.
Where to find good cheap eats: anywhere between Old Town and the bus station.
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