Split, Croatia’s stunning coastal gem, is more than just a gateway to the Adriatic islands—it’s a city brimming with history, culture, and natural beauty. As Croatia’s second-largest city, Split offers a unique blend of ancient architecture, vibrant modern life, and breathtaking seafront views. Whether you’re drawn by the allure of Diocletian’s Palace, the charm of its historic old town, or the idyllic beaches and nearby islands, Split promises an unforgettable experience.
Finding the perfect place to stay in Split is key to making the most of your visit. From luxurious boutique hotels nestled in centuries-old buildings to stylish Riviera apartments with sweeping ocean views, the city offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste. Whether you’re seeking the pulse of the city’s nightlife, the tranquility of a seaside retreat, or a blend of both, there’s a neighborhood in Split that’s perfect for you.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best areas to stay in Split, highlighting top accommodations and neighborhoods that will enhance your experience in this vibrant destination. Whether you’re here for a brief visit or an extended stay, this guide will help you find the perfect home away from home in Split.
1. Old Town, best area to stay in Split
The Old Town, particularly the area around Diocletian’s Palace and its adjoining harborside locales, is one of Split’s must-see attractions. This vibrant, fortified village is a maze of winding cobbled streets and hidden alleyways, filled with inviting cafes, boutiques, and local businesses that draw you in with their charm.
Among the highlights within the fortress walls of Diocletian’s Palace are the Peristyle (the palace’s central square), the cellars—made famous by Game of Thrones—the Cardo (the main pathway), Split City Museum, and Saint Domnius Cathedral. If you’re up for it, a climb up the cathedral’s bell tower rewards you with stunning panoramic views of the city and the Dalmatian Islands.
As you wander through the old labyrinth-like streets, be sure to stop at People’s Square, the bustling heart of Old Town. With its stately clock tower and numerous eateries and bars, this plaza is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy some people-watching.
A leisurely walk westward will bring you to Riva, Split’s iconic harbor promenade. Under the shade of lush palm trees, you can soak in the lively atmosphere of the bustling port, admire the grand historic buildings, and gaze out over the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
When the sun sets, the Old Town’s vibrant nightlife comes to life. From traditional pubs and chic wine bars to a wide variety of restaurants serving both local and international dishes, there’s something for every taste.
Split’s local gastronomy is now among the best in the Mediterranean, offering everything from sizzling steaks and fresh seafood to flavorful pasta, crispy pizza, and refreshing salads. While the harbor area is lively and energetic, quieter spots can be found in charming cafes, bars, and restaurants tucked away from the main hustle and bustle.
For accommodations, Old Town offers a wide range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. You’ll find everything from budget-friendly hostels and cozy apartments to luxury chain hotels and lavish spa villas.
Best Hotels in Old Town
2. Bacvice, best area to stay in Split for beaches and nightlife
This vibrant area, just a short walk from the main bus station, is a favorite destination for both sun-seekers and party enthusiasts. During the height of summer, Bacvice buzzes with a lively mix of locals and visitors, all drawn to the beach and its energetic bar scene.
The star attraction of Bacvice is its unique beach, a perfect blend of natural beauty and human craftsmanship. The beach, nestled in a small bay, features a mix of soft white sand and smooth concrete, both offering stunning views against a backdrop of cypress and pine trees.
The gentle Adriatic waters make Bacvice Beach a safe and enjoyable spot for families, even with little ones. You’ll find plenty of water sports equipment, sunbeds, and parasols available. If the beach gets too crowded, Bacvice Aqua Park is just nearby to keep the kids entertained.
As evening approaches, Bacvice transforms into a lively nightlife hub, attracting both the young and the young-at-heart to its array of bars, restaurants, and trendy nightclubs. For those looking to explore further, Bacvice Port offers day trips and ferry routes along the coast, to the islands, and even across to Italy.
While Bacvice is a popular spot, accommodations here are limited, so booking early is a must. But don’t worry! The proximity to the Old Town means you have plenty of lodging options just a short stroll away, keeping Bacvice Beach easily accessible.
Best Hotels in Bacvice
3. Veli Varos - A Tranquil Retreat For Couples, Families, and Explorers
Nestled at the foot of Marjan Hill and dating back to the 1600s, Veli Varos is a charming neighborhood that offers a glimpse into Split’s rich past. Originally a home for peasant fishermen and farmers, this tranquil area feels like a step back in time.
With its rustic stone houses, winding cobbled streets, and numerous historic churches, Veli Varos is full of medieval charm. Most of the village is pedestrianized, providing a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Split’s city life.
Veli Varos is perfect for those seeking a quiet retreat, yet it still offers plenty of shops, eateries, and bars to meet your daily needs. There are also several cultural attractions to explore. The 11th-century Church of St. Nicholas (Mikula), located at the top of Cross Street, is a must-see with its Romanesque-style archway and impressive bell tower.
Other historic churches worth visiting include St. Magdalene, St. Lucas, and Our Lady of Soca. On the coast, you’ll also find the Franciscan Monastery and the Church of St. Francis, both of which are worth a visit.
For those who enjoy a bit of adventure, the steep climb up Marjan Hill leads you to the lush greenery of Marjan Park. This green oasis is crisscrossed with walking, cycling, and jogging trails and is home to a variety of wildlife. If the climb gets too tiring, take a break at Cafe Bar Vidilica and enjoy the breathtaking views as you ascend.
At the summit, you’ll reach Telegrin, a former semaphore telegraph station. While the climb may be challenging, the stunning views of the Dalmatian Isles of Hvar, Brac, and Solta are well worth the effort.
Best Hotels in Veli Varos
- (€€€) Heritage Hotel 19
- (€€) Hotel Cvita
- (€) House of Cyril
4. Poljud - A Contemporary Haven for Sports Aficionados and Leisure Seekers
Nestled within the larger Spinut area of Split, Poljud is a charming district known for one standout attraction—the iconic Stadium Poljud. This multi-purpose arena, built for the 8th Mediterranean Games in 1979, has a massive 35,000-seat capacity and hosts everything from thrilling football matches and athletic events to electrifying music concerts. It’s also the proud home of the local football team, Hajduk Split.
Situated on the beautiful coast near Spinut port and marina, Stadium Poljud remains one of the world’s most modern arenas despite being nearly four decades old. Its impressive floodlight system, featuring over 600 Philips lights, rivals many famous venues. The stadium complex also includes three gyms, a swimming pool, and spa facilities.
Even if you’re not a big sports fan, the nearby Mladosti Park offers a peaceful escape, perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply soaking up the sun. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the stadium offers the Skywalk Poljud, a thrilling 70-meter freefall experience from the stadium’s rooftop—definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Poljud and Spinut also come alive at night with a vibrant mix of bars and restaurants offering both local and international cuisines. The harbor area is particularly lively, attracting crowds eager to enjoy the evening atmosphere.
Poljud is a modern, convenient suburb to stay in while visiting Split, within walking distance of the picturesque Spinut port and marina, as well as Split’s Old Town. With plenty of bus routes and taxis available, getting around is easy. Accommodation options in Poljud range from hostels and private rooms to apartments, Airbnb stays, villas, and hotels, ensuring something for every budget and preference.
Best Hotels in Poljud
- (€€€) Hotel Globo
- (€€) Hotel President Split
- (€) Gravitas Hostel
5. Znjan, best area to stay in Split for families
On the southeast side of the city, Znjan boasts the largest pebbly beach in Split. In recent years, the area has undergone significant improvements, with illegal properties replaced by modern complexes, offering much better beach access.
A charming walkway now lines the beach, complete with public toilets, changing rooms, shower facilities, shops, ice cream stalls, bars, snack shacks, sunbeds, and sunshades.
For families, Znjan is perfect for keeping the little ones entertained. There’s a children’s play park, an amusement center, volleyball courts, sailing opportunities, and a wide range of water sports. Hotels, apartment blocks, shops, bars, and restaurants provide a lively backdrop, while a vast park hosts music festivals throughout the summer.
In the evenings, Znjan comes alive with an eclectic mix of bars and restaurants to suit all tastes, with the beach area being the hub of activity. As an emerging district in Split, Znjan often offers attractive accommodation deals, making it an increasingly popular choice for visitors.
Best Hotels in Znjan
- (€€€) Radisson Blu Resort & Spa
- (€€) Hotel Fanat
- (€) Hotel Elu Iris
6. Stobreč - A Picturesque Beach Town Offering a Gateway to Greater Explorations
Tucked away on the Split peninsula and nestled beneath the towering Mosor mountain range, the charming town of Stobreč welcomes you with a rich history dating back to the 3rd century BC. Bathed in the sun’s glow and kissed by the shimmering Adriatic Sea, Stobreč is a picturesque contrast of pastel-hued houses with red pantile roofs set against the lush greenery of pine and cypress woods.
The expansive main beach of Stobreč is adjacent to one of Croatia’s most popular campsites. With over 200 spots for tents, caravans, and motorhomes, the beachfront area can buzz with a festive atmosphere. But don’t worry—a leisurely stroll further along the coast will lead you to quieter spots where you can relax in peace.
The town offers a variety of water sports, including adrenaline-pumping jet-skis and exciting scuba diving adventures. Kids will love the slides and other water activities. Stobreč also features a quaint marina, adding to the town’s charm.
As you explore Stobreč, you’ll find a promenade that lazily traces the contours of the marina and beach. It’s perfect for a pleasant stroll, with opportunities for refreshment and some delightful window shopping along the way.
While Stobreč might seem light on attractions, it does offer some noteworthy sights. Visit the 5th-century Basilica of St. Laurentius in the town center, the 14th-century Church of St. Michael, and the 15th-century Church of St. Maria, which was rebuilt in the 19th century and intriguingly houses 15th-century gravestones embedded in its floor.
Stobreč serves as a convenient base for various trips, with regular bus services connecting you to Split’s Old Town in about 25 minutes. If you have a rental car, the walled town of Trogir is just a 40-minute drive away, while the town of Sibenik and the awe-inspiring waterfalls of Krka National Park are within a 90-minute drive.
Nightlife in Stobreč is more relaxed, centered around the town’s restaurants and bars. However, with an Uber or local cab, you can be enjoying a meal in Split’s city center within 15 minutes.
Accommodation in Stobreč tends to be more affordable than in the city center, though options are somewhat limited. The focus here is largely on private rentals, self-catering apartments, and villas. Camping Stobreč offers several holiday chalets with a host of facilities, including a pool, bars, restaurants, sauna, and spa—not to mention easy access to the enticing beach.
Best Hotels in Stobrec
- (€€€) Le Meridien Lav Split
- (€€) Ark Beach Apartments
- (€) Guest House Ivo
