Holidays to Split

When it comes to cool, chilled-out and charming city vibes, it’s hard to beat a Split holiday. Come for the gleaming old town and Diocletian's 1,700-year-old palace, stay for the Adriatic islands within Split-ting distance (sorry!).

City breaks

You can get to Split in the south of Croatia in around two and a half hours by plane from the UK, making it a convenient European city break destination.

Over a long weekend, you can easily explore the city’s UNESCO-crowned (very) old town, swim in the sea, kayak along the coast and sample Croatian wines at a seafront café. If you have time, throw in an island-hopping cruise.

Palatial properties

Split’s big-ticket historical site is Diocletian’s Palace. This isn’t your typical pay-to-enter palace – the bustling old town is built around these Roman ruins.

Enter the old town via the Golden Gate to reach them. And as you wander the fairytale streets, lined with bars, shops, and restaurants, look out for the ancient palace’s arches, old stone walls, bell tower and columns.

So Hvar, so good

Split is the jumping-off point for island ferry transfers and cruises. Many are day trips, which is ideal if you’re short on time.

Hvar is the most famous of the nearby isles, known for Hvar Town’s lovely harbour and medieval castle, its lavender fields, and bars and beach parties. It’s only an hour away and the last boat back is at a respectable 9pm in summer – plenty of time for a day of wining, dining and reclining with an evening still ahead of you!

Natural beauty

On the edge of Split, Marjan Forest Park is a stunning location for a hike or a cycle, with spectacular views of the city’s terracotta roofs and sparkling sea. It’s great for a spot of leafy shade in the summer months too.

Beyond the lush trails, the park is basically an open-air museum peppered with tiny medieval churches, a 16th-century Jewish cemetery and caves in which hermit monks (the OG introverts) once sheltered.