The city of Split is situated in the warmest region of the northern Mediterranean coast, in the very centre of the Adriatic eastern coast and in the immediate vicinity of the rivers Jadro and Žrnovnica that have been watering it for 1700 years. The first inhabitant of Split was the Roman emperor Diocletian who started to build his palace in this friendly bay around 293 AD. Its mild climate, with 2700 sunny hours per year, makes it an oasis where, sheltered from the wind, one can enjoy the sun even in wintertime.
The industrial, university, and business centre of the region nourishes its “green soul” on the hill Marjan situated in the westernmost part of the peninsula. Its forested park infringed by the city and the sea offers pleasant walks away from the city noise under the pines by the sea.
General Information
Location:
Split is the largest city in the Dalmatia area, situated on the southern part of Croatia. The ancient center of the city, namely Diocletian's Palace, has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an essential part of Split's culture and heritage.
Population:
Split is home to approximately 170,000 people, according to the most recent data. In the period of tourist season, where visitors seek out its distinctive cultural heritage and historical landscapes, the city's population increases.
History
Ancient Roots:
The history of Split dates back to the Romans when, in early 4th century A.D., Emperor Diocletian decided that a retirement palace should be built here. The palace, a magnificent building, was the starting point of Split's development and remains an important part of its urban landscape.
Medieval Influence:
In the past centuries, Split had been influenced by a variety of cultures, from Byzantines to Venetians and AustroHungarians. The architecture of the town reflects this diversity in its history, ranging from ancient churches to Renaissance palaces.
Modern Era:
Split evolved into a modern city centre in the twentieth century, while preserving its historical legacy. Today, visitors can stroll through ancient alleyways, discover hidden squares, and marvel at the seamless blend of old and new.
Traveling to Split
By Ferry from Italy:
Split is an important centre for transport, and a ferry from Italy has become one of the most beautiful ways to get there. The Italian ports of Ancona, Bari and Venice are connected by ferry to Split. In fact, this journey is not only a means of transport but also an excursion through the Adriatic that offers spectacular views over Croatia's islands.
By Road:
In order to see the region by road, you can reach Split on a car from various European cities. It connects Zagreb with Split via the A1 road, which is a convenient and well maintained route. The Mediterranean shore road with panoramic views over the Adriatic is also an option for travellers.
By Plane:
In Split there is an international airport, called Resnik Airport, which lies about twenty five kilometers from the city centre. It is well connected to major European cities, giving passengers an easy choice of flights when they wish to arrive in a timely manner.
Attractions and Landmarks
Diocletian's Palace:
The Diocletian's Palace, which forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage site that enshrines millennia of history, is located in the heart of Split. The palace is a maze of narrow streets, plazas and beautifully preserved buildings dating back to the 13 th century that display Roman, medieval or Renaissance architecture. Visitors have a chance to explore subterranean chambers, walk around the Cathedral of St. Domnius' bell tower and take an atmospheric look at this living historic monument.
Riva Promenade:
Riva Promenade, on the water's edge, has become a busy center where locals and visitors alike are enjoying seaside cafes, shopping plazas or festivities of all sorts. Riva is a key part of the social and cultural life in Split, whether you're having morning coffee, leisurely strolling or an evening concert.
Marjan Hill:
We recommend visiting Marjan Hill, which offers a view to the city and the Adriatic Sea. The green oasis, covered with tree forests, offers hiking and cycling paths, secluded beaches as well as the medieval church of St. Nicholas. For those looking for both natural beauty and historical charms, it's a perfect retreat.
Peristyle Square:
The main gathering place surrounded by impressive columns and decorated with statues is Peristyle Square, within the Diocletian Palace. The square plays host to various cultural events and shows, offering a glimpse of the city's lively arts scene.
Culinary Delights
The culinary scene in Split is a celebration of Dalmatian flavours. Visitors can savor local specialties like pasticada (slow-cooked beef), peka (baked meat and vegetables), and fresh seafood. A real taste of this area lies in the lively fish market and charming local restaurants.
Wine and Olive Oil:
Dalmatia is considered one of the world's great wine and olive oil producers, with Split providing an excellent opportunity to visit local vineyards and olive groves. Local varieties such as Plavac Mali can be sampled by wine lovers and the rich flavour of locally produced oils can be experienced by olive oil connoisseurs.
Split, Croatia invites travelers to embark on a journey through time where ancient history coexists with modern dynamism. Split has offered a diverse experience that brings delight to the senses from ancient glory of Diocletian's Palace, through its dynamic energy on Riva Promenade. The drive to Split is as magical as the destination itself, no matter how you get there by ferry, road or plane. Explore the narrow cobblestone streets, savor local delicacies, and let the Adriatic breeze carry you through a city where every corner tells a story of a rich and resilient past. When you've been immersed in the beauty of Split, you discover a destination that tempts you to come back. It reveals new layers of timeless attraction on each visit.
Yacht charter in Split Croatia (Bareboat or Crewed)
Split, situated on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia, is making itself a major world capital for yacht charterers. Split became one of the most visited destinations, offering six marinaes and a wide range of yacht chartering services thanks to its historical importance, beautiful scenery and an important location in the Adriatic Sea. Not only is this town a gateway to the open sea, but it's a lively crossroads where dreams of maritime life come true.
Abundance of Yacht Charter Fleet:
The abundance of yacht charter fleets is an important factor for making Split the world's greatest yachting capital. Charter firms in Split offer a wide variety of choices for luxury sailboats and elegant catamarans as well as powerful motor yachtes. There are plenty of opportunities, whether you want to take a romantic boat ride along the coast or embark on an exciting motor yacht adventure.
Variety of sailing routes from Split:
The journey from Split is an exciting one for cruisers, with many fascinating routes on offer each promising a different kind of maritime adventure. The options are as varied as the Dalmatian coast, whether you choose to cruise south into Dubrovnik's historical city or embark on a voyage that will take you north over the fascinating archipelago of Kornati.
The voyage through the Adriatic's southern charms is revealed when you sail south to Dubrovnik. On their way, sailors have the opportunity of discovering charming islands such as Brac, Hvar or Korula which boast its own cultural treasures and sunkissed beaches. The trip south will come to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Dubrovnik, where medieval walls and terracotta rooftops provide an amazing view into the Adriatic Sea.
The sailors choose the northern route and sail through the Kornati Archipelago, a paradise for sailors with more than 140 islands. This route leads into the Kornati National Park and invites you to explore secluded coves, crystal clear waters as well as its natural wonders. The north route from Split promises a gentle escape into nature's embrace with anchorage in the rural villages of Murter or by sailing along dramatic cliffs at Telascica Nature Park.
If you want to travel south and north, travelling from Split is a chance to walk through the various landscapes of the region, discover obscure jewels or experience the awesome beauty of the Adriatic on board your sailboat.
Renting boat and Sailing from Split
Split has a proud position as the world's capital of yacht hire, with six marina and an active chartering industry. The city's rich history and vibrant culture provide a unique backdrop for maritime adventures, and the strategic location along the Dalmatian Coast makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Adriatic Sea. From the well-equipped ACI Marina to the luxurious Marina Lav, each harbor in Split offers a distinct experience, catering to the diverse preferences of sailors from around the globe.
With an abundance of yacht charter fleets and the expertise of seasoned crews, Split invites maritime enthusiasts to embark on journeys that seamlessly blend the thrill of sailing with the beauty of the Dalmatian landscapes. Each moment in the Adriatic Sea is a chapter of its maritime story, unfolding against the backdrop of one of the world's greatest yachting capitals, whether sailing nearby islands, anchoring at isolated reefs or simply enjoying the sea energy of Split's old city harbor.