Split

The remarkably well-preserved 4th-century Roman palace built for Emperor Diocletian is not just Split's top attraction - it IS Split's Old Town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers 30,000 square meters and was constructed with marble from Italy and Greece, columns and sphinxes from Egypt. Today, over 3,000 people live within its ancient walls among a labyrinth of narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The palace includes the Peristyle courtyard, Cathedral of St Domnius, Golden Gate, and underground cellars famously used as a Game of Thrones filming location.

One of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use in its original structure, built within Diocletian's Mausoleum from the 3rd century. The octagonal building was converted to a church in the 7th century - ironically dedicated to a saint who was beheaded by Diocletian himself. The 57-meter bell tower, added in the 12th century and recently restored, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Split, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands. Climbing the 183 narrow steps is challenging but rewards you with the best viewpoint in the city. Entry includes the crypt, treasury, and Temple of Jupiter.

Rising 178 meters above the city, Marjan Hill is Split's green lung - a forested park covering a 3-kilometer peninsula that offers the perfect escape from urban bustle. Walking trails wind through pine forests to multiple viewpoints, historic churches, rock cave dwellings from the 1500s, and the Old Jewish Cemetery. The first viewpoint Prva Vidilica is an easy 45-minute walk from Riva with a cafe; the higher Telegrin peak provides even more spectacular views. The southern slopes have hidden beaches like Kašjuni. Perfect for hiking, cycling, rock climbing, or simply enjoying sunset views.

Split's beloved 820-foot waterfront promenade stretches along the southern wall of Diocletian's Palace, where the Adriatic once crashed directly against Roman walls before land was reclaimed. This palm-lined boulevard is the social heart of Split - locals and visitors alike stroll here at all hours, sipping coffee at outdoor cafes while watching ferries come and go. The views across the harbor to the islands are spectacular, especially at sunset. Street performers, markets, and festivals regularly animate the space. Simply sitting on a bench with gelato watching the world go by is quintessential Split.

Split's most popular beach is famous for its rare sandy shores (most Croatian beaches are pebbly), Blue Flag status for water quality, and being the birthplace of picigin - a traditional ball game played in shallow waters that's now part of UNESCO intangible heritage. The picigin World Cup is held here annually. The beach transforms throughout the day from family-friendly swimming spot to vibrant nightlife scene with beach bars pumping until dawn. Facilities include showers, changing rooms, and rental equipment. Just 15 minutes walk from Diocletian's Palace, it perfectly combines beach time with sightseeing.

The Golden Gate (Porta Aurea) was the grandest of four entrances to Diocletian's Palace, originally reserved for the Emperor and decorated with ornate carvings. Above it hides tiny St Martin's Church, a 10-meter long former guardroom from 300 AD - one of the oldest churches in Split. Just outside stands the towering 8.5-meter bronze statue of Bishop Gregory of Nin by Ivan Meštrović. Gregory championed using Croatian instead of Latin in church services. Rubbing his shiny big toe is said to bring good luck - a tradition so popular the toe gleams golden against the dark bronze.

Descend beneath the palace into remarkably preserved underground chambers that once supported Diocletian's private apartments above. These subterranean halls with vaulted ceilings and thick columns are among the best-preserved ancient Roman structures anywhere. They stored goods and managed the palace's sophisticated drainage system. Today, stalls near the entrance sell local crafts and souvenirs. Game of Thrones fans will recognize the cellars as the dungeon where Daenerys kept her dragons in Meereen. The cool underground provides welcome relief from summer heat while offering fascinating glimpses into Roman engineering.

The ceremonial heart of Diocletian's Palace, this open-air courtyard served as the northern access to the Emperor's private apartments 1,700 years ago. Surrounded by Corinthian columns, granite Egyptian sphinxes, and the entrance to the Cathedral, the Peristyle remains Split's main gathering place. Cafe Luxor's red cushions spill across the ancient steps - grab a coffee and people-watch in this extraordinary setting. Summer evenings bring cultural performances and the famous 'Voćni Trg' events. The juxtaposition of tourists in shorts, locals in suits, and Roman architecture creates surreal magic.