Home of Diocletian’s Palace
Located along the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea less than 30 minutes from Trogir, Split is the largest city in the region of Dalmatia and the second largest city in Croatia (behind #1 Zagreb).
A vibrant coastal city on the Dalmatian Coast, Split blends history, food, beaches, and culture into one unforgettable destination.
From wandering Diocletian’s Palace and sipping espresso on the Riva Promenade to indulging in fresh seafood and Dalmatian specialties, Split is a perfect stop on any Croatia or Balkan road trip.
How to Explore Diocletian’s Palace Like a Game of Thrones Fan?
Diocletian’s Palace is so sprawling that it encompasses about half of the old town of Split and wandering its cobblestone alleys feels like stepping back in time.
Built as a retirement residence after he retired on May 1, 305 AD, the palace was intended to be Emperor Diocletian’s forever home.
Sadly, he only lived there for a few years before passing away in 311 AD at age 66.
Today, 3,000 people still live in the interior of Diocletian’s Palace today!
Navigating the Four Gates of Diocletian’s Palace?
Diocletian’s Palace is uniquely accessed through four historic gates, each once aligned with a Roman road and cardinal direction.
- The North Gate (Golden Gate) – for grand ceremonial entrances, reserved for emporers and important guests
- The East Gate (Silver Gate) – connected the palace to the city’s markets and everyday life
- The South Gate (Bronze Gate) – opening directly to the sea, allowed supplies to arrive by boat—and today leads straight into the palace’s underground cellars
- The West Gate (Iron Gate) – designed for daily use, serving as a practical passage between the palace and the surrounding settlement
We chose to enter through the West Gate, a quieter and more understated point of entry that immediately drops you into the rhythm of Split’s Old Town. From there, we headed straight toward our first stop: the underground cellars of Diocletian’s Palace, descending beneath the palace floors to explore the remarkably preserved stone chambers that once supported the emperor’s private quarters above.
We couldn’t resist exploring the palace cellars, made famous by Game of Thrones and the epic scenes with Daenerys and her dragons. Luckily, we practically had the underground level to ourselves.
How to Explore the Underground Cellars?
You can purchase an entry ticket directly to the cellars of the palace for around $8–$13 per person (roughly €7–€13), which gives you self‑guided access to the vaulted chambers and historic Roman architecture. This is a budget‑friendly way to explore the ancient underground on your own schedule.
For €35, a 2-hour guided walking tour offers deeper historical context and includes access to the palace’s underground cellars.
Hidden beneath the palace itself, these massive stone chambers once supported the emperor’s private quarters above and now offer a fascinating glimpse into Roman engineering, everyday life, and the layered past that makes Split so unique.
… These are also the ancient cellars made famous by Game of Thrones and the epic scenes with Daenerys and her dragons!
Walking through the dimly lit hallways, surrounded by centuries-old stone and the distant sounds of storytelling, was truly immersive. For history buffs, architecture lovers, and Game of Thrones fans alike, this was an unforgettable experience in Split.
What and Where to Eat in Split?
Split’s cuisine is all about fresh ingredients from land and sea — think olive oil, grilled fish, herbs, and local wine.
Must‑Try Local Dishes:
- Black cuttlefish/squid risotto – rich, briny, and iconic on the Adriatic (*MUST TRY BUT PROCEED WITH CAUTION BECAUSE IT WILL TURN YOUR MOUTH BLACK 😅*)
- Pašticada – slow‑cooked beef with gnocchi, a Dalmatian classic.
- Grilled octopus & mussels – light and delicious seafood straight from the Adriatic.
- Peka – traditionally cooked under a bell‑shaped lid (order ahead).
Top Restaurants & Cafés:
Here are the local favorites worth booking ahead:
Fine Dining & Seafood:
- LAGANINI seafood • pasta • steak – Elegant menu with seafood, pasta, and steak overlooking Split’s Old Town.
- Restaurant Zrno Soli – Sea views and refined Dalmatian seafood dishes right by Baluni Beach.
- Restoran Triton Split – Highly rated spot for fresh seafood with a seaside vibe.
Local Favorites & Casual Spots:
- Konoba Pjaca restaurant – great for Iron Gate people watching
- Villa Spiza – Small, authentic Dalmatian restaurant with daily specials
- Duje – Creative Mediterranean‑inspired dishes in a relaxed setting
- Corto Maltese Freestyle food – Laid‑back, popular local eatery with creative takes on classics
Travel tip: The waterfront may draw the crowds, but the soul of Split’s food scene lives in the Old Town’s quiet alleyways, where family-run konobas dish out classic Dalmatian flavors.
After our self tour of the cellars, we explored the underground souvenir markets then worked up an appetite for Konoba Pjacoa restaurant near the Iron Gate for dinner.
Jeff decided to try the black squid ink risotto, and let’s just say it lived up to its name—his mouth turned completely black! We were laughing so hard at his inky smile that we totally forgot to snap a picture of his blackened tongue. Definitely a meal we won’t forget anytime soon!)
This was also the moment in our trip when our Google searches started looking like: “How much cheese can 1 person bring back to the USA?” 🤣 Traveling through Croatia (and the Balkans) really tests your willpower when it comes to local cheeses, cured meats, and other culinary treasures.
A Perfect 3 Days in Split, Croatia?
After spending our first day wandering Diocletian’s Palace and exploring its atmospheric underground cellars, we returned the next day to continue our adventure.
This time, we focused on the historic center, including the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (originally Diocletian’s mausoleum) and the Temple of Jupiter, now serving as the palace baptistery—each site offering a fascinating glimpse into Split’s layered Roman and medieval history.
Don’t Miss These Experiences in Split:
- Diocletian’s Palace – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the beating heart of old Split.
- Cathedral of Saint Domnius – One of the oldest cathedrals still in use today.
- Temple of Jupiter – Ancient Roman temple turned baptistery with striking architecture.
- Marjan Hill – Hike or walk for panoramic sea views and hidden chapels.
- Split Archaeological Museum – Croatia’s oldest museum, rich with artifacts from prehistoric to medieval times
What is it like to explore Diocletian’s Palace and Split’s Historic Center?
In 1979, Split’s historic center was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its incredible Roman architecture and cultural heritage.
On our second day in Split, Croatia, we returned to Diocletian’s Palace to continue exploring its historic heart. Our focus was the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (originally Diocletian’s mausoleum) and the Temple of Jupiter, now a baptistery.
One of the highlights was standing in the Peristyle, the rectangular open courtyard that served as the central gathering place for the most powerful Roman citizens. It was awe-inspiring to stand where emperors once walked over 1,700 years ago.
Adding to the palace’s grandeur, the grounds are decorated with over 3,500-year-old granite sphinxes, gifts from Egyptian kings, which give a fascinating glimpse into the palace’s imperial connections and ancient history.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of Roman architecture, or simply seeking the top things to do in Split, exploring Diocletian’s Palace is an unforgettable experience.
Fascinating history of Split’s Cathedral of Saint Domnius:
Directly adjacent to the Peristyle is the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, considered one of the oldest cathedrals in the world.
Originally, this building was the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, a ruler infamous for his role in the persecution of Christians.
One of Diocletian’s victims was Saint Domnius, who was martyred along with seven other Christians under the emperor’s orders.
Ironically, after Diocletian’s death, Saint Domnius became the patron saint of Split, and the cathedral was established in Diocletian’s own mausoleum—the very emperor who had executed him.
Not so fun fact: It is estimated Diocletian is responsible for the death of over 150,000 Christians during the 3rd century.
During the Middle Ages, Christian settlers in Split converted the mausoleum into a place of worship, removing all pagan imagery.
They also exhumed Diocletian’s sarcophagus and threw his remains into the sea, symbolically erasing the memory of the persecutor while honoring the saint who gave the cathedral its name.
Visiting the Cathedral of Saint Domnius today, you can feel the layers of history—from Roman imperial power to medieval Christian devotion—all in one remarkable site, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Split, Croatia.
The interior of the cathedral is equally captivating, with centuries of Roman, medieval, and Christian architecturemerging seamlessly.
From the ornate altar to the soaring ceilings, every corner tells a story—making it a must-see site in Split, Croatia, especially for history enthusiasts and fans of ancient architecture.
To this day, the remains of several martyrs have been placed within the alter, while Diocletian got booted from his own burial grounds. Interestingly, this is a rare example of a sarcophagus being used as an altar.
Saint Domnius Cathedral and the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist
After exploring Saint Domnius Cathedral and its crypts, we made our way to the Baptistery of St. John the Baptist, originally the Temple of Jupiter.
We tossed a few coins into the fountain for good luck and admired the striking architecture, including the beautifully preserved roof dating back to 295–305 AD, built during the construction of the Diocletian’s Palace.
Standing there, it’s hard to wrap your mind around how much history has unfolded in that exact space over the centuries.
Before heading to lunch along the bustling Riva Promenade, we made a quick detour to the market just outside Split’s East Gate (also known as the Silver Gate).
You can pop in too if you like—this lively market is full of colorful stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local cheeses, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
Sound of Music?!
On the way to the Riva, we began to hear the most incredible singing drifting through the streets—powerful, soulful voices that seemed to echo off the stone walls.
Curiosity led us down a narrow alley, and there they were: a local a cappella group performing right in the heart of Split!
Their harmonies were mesmerizing, and the crowd that had gathered couldn’t help but sway along. It was one of those spontaneous, magical travel moments that make the city feel alive. (Check out the video! 🎶)
🎵 🎶 🎵 🎶 🎵
This moment is one of my favorite moments from our time in Split— just walking along, soaking in the scenery & stumbling across THIS SOUND! 🎼 THIS IS WHY WE TRAVEL
Where to Stay in Split?
- Airbnb & Vacation Rentals: Perfect for travelers who want a homey feel, kitchen access, and local experiences. Many rentals offer Old Town views, cozy interiors, and convenient access to the city’s historic landmarks. If you love walking and city views, look for apartments or hotels overlooking the Riva or Old Town streets.
- Boutique Hotels: There are charming small hotels tucked within the palace walls or nearby streets, often featuring historic architecture and modern comforts.
- Luxury Hotels: If you prefer a pampered stay, several high-end hotels line the Riva Promenade, offering sea views, rooftop terraces, and easy access to Split’s nightlife and restaurants.
- Budget-Friendly Hostels & Guesthouses: Great for backpackers and solo travelers, many are centrally located, offering shared kitchens and social spaces while staying close to Diocletian’s Palace.
**Travel Tips:
- Staying near Marjan Hill gives you access to hiking trails, panoramic viewpoints, and a quieter atmosphere compared to the bustling Old Town.
- Book early, especially in high season (May–September), as accommodations in the Old Town fill up fast.
Where We Stayed In Split, Croatia
The Airbnb has everything for 2— For dinner, we played chef for the night and stayed in, making our own pesto pasta in the small kitchenette of our Airbnb.
Its prime location near the historic center and Marjan Hill made it the perfect home base for exploring the city. We can highly recommend this Airbnb in Split to anyone visiting the area.
Link to Amfora Luxury Studio (CLICK HERE)
Link to Amfora Luxury Studio (CLICK HERE)
The final morning in Split was a Sunday and we woke up to SINGING outside— both birds and humans! What a way to wake up and start your day with the bedroom windows open (after a night of listening to the rain!
Check out this 30 second video! 🎶 It was the cherry on top to our stay in Split:
How Many Days Should You Spend in Split?
After visiting Split, Croatia, one thing became clear—three days in Split is simply not enough to experience everything this incredible coastal city has to offer.
With its historic Old Town built around Diocletian’s Palace, beautiful Adriatic waterfront, and easy access to nearby islands and national parks, it would be easy to spend 5–7 days in Split without running out of things to do.
From exploring ancient Roman streets and relaxing along the Riva waterfront to taking day trips to places like Hvar, Trogir, or Krka National Park, Split is the perfect base for a Croatia coastal itinerary.
One thing is certain—we’ll definitely be back to Split. 🇭🇷
I loved Split when I visited, I’ll definitely go back and I 100% want to stay in that Air bnb…it looks stunning! Was it inside the city walls…I can’t tell from the map on the site.
Split, looks amazing, can’t wait to explore those tiny streets and see the architecture and everything else it has to offer. We are heading there this month, our first trip since we had to abandon our travels due to Covid-19
Hope you loved Split as much as we did!