Picking the right neighborhoods in Split can significantly enhance your visit. Whether you prefer a beachside stay near Bacvice, want to stay in the Old Town to soak in the history, or seek views of Marjan Hill, each area offers something distinct..
Where to Stay in Split 🏨
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Hotel Park Split
- ✨ 5-Star: Aminess Khalani Hotel
- 🏨 4-Star: Time Boutique Hotel
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Batuda
- 🏢 Apartament: Apartments Korta
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Apartment Luxury Palace No1
- 🏩 For Couples: Riva Luxury Rooms
Best Guided Tours in Split 📍
- Blue Cave and Hvar Tour - 5 Islands Tour from € 115 (⭐4.8/5)
- Blue Lagoon, Shipwreck & Šolta Cruise from € 85 (⭐4.9/5)
- Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour from € 95 (⭐4.7/5)
- ATV Quad Safari Tour with BBQ Lunch from € 75 (⭐4.8/5)
Best Places to Stay in Split 📋
- For First-Time Visitors: Split Old Town
- For Beach Lovers: Bačvice Area
- For Nature Lovers: Veli Varoš
- For Family Travels: Meje (Marjan)
Practical Tips
- Currency: Croatia uses the Kuna (HRK). As of now, 1 USD is approximately 7 HRK, and 1 EUR is about 7.5 HRK.
- Location: Avoid staying too far from the city center if you want quick access to Split’s main attractions. Public transport is available but walking from a central location is often more convenient.
1. Split Old Town: For First-Time Visitors
Heart of History. In Old Town Split you can explore iconic landmarks and visit souvenir shops like the Split Souvenir Store, where you’ll find unique gifts and memorabilia. The streets are filled with cozy cafes, local markets, and picturesque spots perfect for photos. Don’t miss the Split City Museum to dive into local history. The heart of it all is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s still inhabited today. I love wandering through the narrow, slippery cobblestone streets early in the morning before the crowds arrive.
Palace Attractions. Current entrance fees for Diocletian’s Palace sites:
- Cathedral & Bell Tower: €3.50
- Basement Halls: €5.50
- Jupiter’s Temple: €2.60
Markets & Local Flavor. The Green Market and Fish Market offer an authentic slice of daily life. I arrived at the Fish Market early one morning to find locals haggling over fresh catches, while the Green Market buzzed with vendors selling everything from local honey to rakija (Croatian brandy).
Dining Scene. Here’s what you can expect to pay for meals in different areas:
| Location | Average Main Course | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Riva Promenade | €20-30 | Tourist-focused |
| Hidden Streets | €10-15 | Local vibe |
| Market Area | €8-12 | Authentic |
Budget Tip: Book places in Split to stay during the shoulder season (April-May or September-October) for rates up to 40% lower. And purchase the Purple package for €10.60 to access all main attractions.
The typical price range for this area:
| Type of stay | Price Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Budget | 50-80 |
| Mid-range | 80-150 |
| Luxury | 150+ |
Insider Tip: Request Split luxury rooms facing inner courtyards for a quieter night’s sleep, as the main streets can get lively during summer evenings.
Where to Stay in Old Town 🏨
Luxury Hotels:
- Palace Luxury Judita Suits – Judita Palace Heritage Hotel – A stunning 16th-century palace turned 4-star hotel in Split’s historic center, next to Diocletian’s Palace. Features 19 air-conditioned rooms with heated floors, a cafe with outdoor terrace, and 24-hour services. Room types include Deluxe Double, Superior Double and Family Duplex
- Old Town Luxury House – A spacious 120m² apartment in Split Old Town offering two rooms with modern amenities. Features a fully equipped kitchen, private patio, and access to activities like windsurfing and diving. Perfect for those seeking a home-away-from-home experience
- Cornaro Hotel – A sophisticated 4-star hotel with a rooftop terrace, Finnish sauna, and Jacuzzi. Offers multiple dining options including Nodilo restaurant and a wine bar. Rooms feature modern amenities like minibars and flat-screen TVs
Expensive Hotel:
- Apartment See Everlasting Split – A spacious one-bedroom apartment with sea and city views, featuring a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher and modern amenities. Offers air conditioning and free WiFi throughout
Medium price range:
- Guest House Imperial – A 4-star guest house near Diocletian’s Palace offering air-conditioned rooms with modern amenities. Features buffet breakfast and rooms with sea views. Perfect for families with children under
- Dolce Vita Apartments – Centrally located apartments with city views, featuring fully equipped kitchenettes, air conditioning, and private balconies. Offers soundproofed rooms and family-friendly accommodations with modern comforts
2. Bačvice Area: For Beach Lovers
Beach Life. Just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, Bačvice offers the perfect blend of beach access and urban convenience. The area in Split is known for its vibrant atmosphere and quick access to Split and the sea.
Getting Around Bačvice:
- Walking: Bačvice is a short 10-minute walk from Split’s Old Town and the ferry port, making it easily accessible on foot.
- Public Transport: Several city bus lines connect Bačvice with other parts of Split. Bus line schedules can be checked via the Promet Split app or website.
- Taxis & Ride Shares: Taxis and Uber are readily available for quick trips to and from the area.
Common Tourist Mistake: Many visitors underestimate Bačvice, thinking it’s too far from the action. In reality, it’s ideally positioned for both relaxation and exploration.
Top Places to Visit in Bačvice:
- Bačvice Beach: One of Split’s rare sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Famous for picigin, a traditional Croatian beach game played in shallow waters. Facilities include showers, changing rooms, and nearby cafes.
- Maritime Museum: Located nearby at Gripe Fortress, this museum showcases Split’s seafaring history through fascinating exhibits of ship models and maritime artifacts.
- Riva Promenade: A bustling waterfront promenade perfect for an evening stroll or enjoying a coffee with sea views.
Local Dining Options. Bačvice is a hub for delicious Dalmatian cuisine and trendy dining spots. Here are some standout options: Konoba Nevera – famous for its high-quality Mediterranean dishes, this cozy restaurant offers fresh seafood and traditional Dalmatian specialties. Restaurant Dvor – a fine dining experience with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Their menu blends traditional Dalmatian flavors with modern culinary techniques. MOVI Restaurant & Pizzeria – perfect for casual dining, this spot serves creative Mediterranean dishes, homemade pizzas, and pasta.
Best Hotels in Bačvice Area 🏨
Luxury Hotels
- Park Split – A luxurious hotel offering two-story deluxe rooms with elegant living spaces and gallery bedrooms. Features Penhaligon’s luxury cosmetics, coffee machines, and modern amenities. Includes a restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine, spa treatments, wedding facilities, and a 24-hour front desk with concierge services
- Luxury Apartment Luce – A 5-star guesthouse in Rova Bay featuring air-conditioned apartments with private terraces and fully equipped kitchens. Offers on-site dining with a restaurant and cafe, plus recreational amenities including bicycle rentals and a nightclub. Complete with 24-hour front desk service and tour assistance
- BREGOS SUPERIOR APARTMENT – A spacious 3-bedroom apartment with stunning panoramic views, located 400m from Bacvice Beach. Features modern amenities including air conditioning, fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher, and two bathrooms with walk-in showers. Offers free WiFi and private parking
Medium price category
- Via Mare Luxury Rooms – Beachfront accommodation offering air-conditioned rooms with sea views and private terraces. Each unit includes satellite TV, safety deposit box, and private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Provides airport shuttle service and luggage storage facilities
- Apartment SAKAL – A 4-star apartment located near Bacvice Beach featuring two bedrooms, terrace with sea views, and fully equipped kitchen. Offers modern amenities including air conditioning, dishwasher, and private entrance. Activities available include cycling and fishing, with paid airport shuttle service
- Luxury home beach apartament – A beachfront apartment offering modern amenities and comfortable accommodations in Split. Features air conditioning, fully equipped kitchen, and direct beach access
Budget Hotel
- Best Location Rooms – A centrally located property just 4 minutes from Bacvice Beach. Offers air-conditioned rooms with beauty services, massage treatments, and bicycle rentals. Additional amenities include snorkeling equipment, diving facilities, and tennis courts
3. Veli Varoš: For Nature Lovers
Local Charm. Veli Varoš sits at the foot of Marjan Hill, characterized by winding cobblestone streets and traditional Dalmatian stone houses. This historic neighborhood lies within a 15-minute walk to Diocletian’s Palace and offers a more authentic Croatian experience.
Dining Scene. The neighborhood is known for its exceptional local restaurants:
- Otprilike Ovako: Traditional Dalmatian cuisine
- Cicibela: Local seafood specialties
- Konoba Matejuska: Famous for black risotto, housed in a 19th-century building
Transportation. The area is primarily pedestrian-friendly, with the nearest bus stop (HNK – Izlaz) about a 5-minute walk away. The main attractions are neat with:
- Roman walls: 500m
- Split Riva: 350m
- Croatian National Theatre: 150m
Insider Tip: The seemingly maze-like streets follow an ancient pattern – when lost, head downhill to reach the main town area.
Stay expenses:
| Tariffs Type | Low Season (EUR) | High Season (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Boutique Hotels | 100-130 | 180-250 |
| Apartments | 60-80 | 120-180 |
| Guesthouses | 40-50 | 90-120 |
Budget Tip: Visit Buffet Fife for authentic local dishes at reasonable prices, featuring daily specials like cuttlefish risotto and lamb meatballs
Best Hotels in Veli Varoš 🏨
Medium Price Segment:
- Villa Marjan – A spacious 230m² villa featuring 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, and a private parking area. The property offers a hot tub/Jacuzzi and opportunities for cycling and hiking. Rooms include modern amenities like air conditioning, satellite TV, and a fully equipped kitchen
- Guest House Laura Lux Suites – A boutique accommodation offering Suites, Double, and Quad room options. Features essential amenities including kitchenette, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs. The property is well-situated for exploring Split’s attractions
- Apartmani Korta -Family-friendly apartments with courtyard views, featuring well-equipped kitchenettes and modern amenities. The property offers access to a wellness center, provides baby amenities, and includes services like airport shuttle and car hire. Each unit comes with air conditioning, satellite TV, and a terrace
Budget Hotels:
- Plaza Varos Split – A 4-star hotel offering double rooms and studio apartments with free WiFi and room service. Located just 550m from Split’s center and 1.3km from the beach, it features a garden, shared lounge, restaurant, and terrace. The property offers an impressive range of activities including massage services, water sports, cooking classes, and organized tours
- Villa Varos – An elegant property rated 8.7 by guests, offering single and double rooms with various comfort levels. Located 600 yards from Split’s center and 0.8 miles from the beach, it provides free WiFi and features a garden. The hotel maintains a perfect balance between traditional charm and modern amenities
- Luxury Apartment Petro – A modern 4-star apartment complex in Split’s historic center, equipped with an elevator and located 1.3 miles from Bacvice Beach. The property offers bicycle rental services and fitness facilities, making it ideal for active travelers looking for a self-catering option
4. Meje (Marjan): For Family Travels
Local Charm. Meje is a top choice for families, offering proximity to Marjan Forest Park. It provides a peaceful retreat while keeping you connected to the Split city museum and city life. Consider split luxury rooms for more comfort and amenities.
Current Prices For A Living:
| Housing Type | Price Range (HRK) | Price Range (EUR/USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Self-catering Apartments | 450–1,000 HRK | €60–€130 / $66–$143 |
| Boutique Hotels | 750–1,200 HRK | €100–€160 / $110–$176 |
Budget Tip: When choosing where to stay, opt for family-run guesthouses in Meje—they often provide better rates and include home-cooked breakfasts.
Key Establishments in Meje
- Museum of Croatian Archaeological Monuments
- Mestroviceve Crikvine-Kaštilac
- Forested Marjan Hillside Park
- Jezinac Public Beach
- Renaissance-era Mestroviceve Crikvine Mansion
What Makes Each Area Special:
- Old Town: Historical immersion, nightlife, central location
- Bačvice: Beach access, entertainment, modern amenities
- Veli Varoš: Local life, authentic atmosphere, great dining
- Meje: Nature access, family-friendly, quieter evenings
Insider Tip: If you’re visiting during the Ultra Europe Festival, book a guesthouse at least 6 months in advance, especially in the Old Town or Bačvice areas. Visit during October to May when staying costs can drop by up to 50%, and many luxury properties offer significant discounts
Where to Stay in Meje (Marjan) 🏨
Luxury Hotels
- Luxury Apartment Mirage Split – A modern beachfront apartment located 800 meters from Jezinac Beach offering stunning sea views and a large terrace. Features 1 bedroom, fully equipped amenities, flat-screen TV, and free WiFi throughout. Perfect for couples seeking a comfortable coastal retreat
- Paparazzi Apartment – A contemporary apartment in a prime Split location with easy walking access to major attractions. Offers modern furnishings, comfortable living areas, and excellent bed accommodations. Amenities include free parking, WiFi, and family rooms
- Mirari Boutique Hotel – An elegant 15-room luxury boutique hotel combining historic charm with modern sophistication. Features premium rooms with balconies, sea views, and Mediterranean gardens. Amenities include a stunning rooftop bar, restaurant, swimming pool, and sauna. The hotel offers panoramic views of Diocletian’s Palace and the Adriatic Sea, making it perfect for sophisticated travelers
Medium price category
- Luxury Rooms Green and Gold Split – An elegant guesthouse offering deluxe queen and king rooms with modern amenities including air conditioning, minibars, and work desks. Each room features private bathrooms with walk-in showers, free toiletries, and wooden floors. The property provides free WiFi in public areas and maintains enhanced safety protocols with hand sanitizer stations
- 2NIGHTSTUDIOS -A contemporary guest house featuring suite-style accommodations in Split. The property offers free WiFi in all rooms and includes diving activities among its recreational options. While maintaining a boutique atmosphere, the property provides basic amenities and is conveniently located for exploring Split’s attractions
Budget Hotels
- Guest House Marija Split – Guest House Marija is a cozy accommodation available in multiple Croatian locations including Dubrovnik, Meje in Split, and Bol. The property offers various room types including Single Rooms, Studios, Triple Rooms, and One-Bedroom Apartments, some featuring terraces and sea view balconies. All rooms come equipped with essential amenities such as air conditioning, free WiFi, flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, and in-room safes.
- IBIS Your Cosy Oasis – A well-rated accommodation located at Meje in Split, featuring private parking and a patio. The property offers complimentary baby cots upon request and maintains a peaceful atmosphere with no-party policy. Perfect for families as it welcomes children of all ages, though pets are not permitted
Timing Your Booking: The Right Accommodation
Peak Season Alert: Having visited Split multiple times, I’ve learned that booking between July-August requires planning 6-8 months in advance to discover the best deals in neighborhoods to stay.
Budget Tip: I’ve found great savings by booking in shoulder season (May or September) – rates drop by 30-40%, and you get the chance to visit places near beaches with perfect weather for a stay in Croatia.
Location Strategy
Insider Tip: After staying in various areas, I’ve realized that location can greatly impact your experience. Here’s my guide to the best advice:
- For Beach Lovers: The Bacvice area offers the perfect balance – you’re just 10 minutes from both the beach and Old Town, with easy access to places to visit
- For Nightlife: Stay within the Roman walls or nearby – you’ll thank me when walking home late and want to discover the best bars.
- For Families: I recommend Meje or Firule – quieter neighbourhoods to stay, with easy beach access and a relaxed atmosphere.
Smart Booking Strategies
Money-Saving Tip: Booking directly through local property owners often means 15-20% savings compared to big booking platforms. Many offer discounts for stays longer than 5 nights, especially near Split.
Insider Tip: For young adults or solo travelers, the area between Bacvice and the Old Town offers the best value. You’re close to beaches and split offers unique experiences without paying Old Town prices.
FAQ About Where to Stay in Split, Croatia ?
What is the best area to stay in Split for first-time visitors?
The Old Town, especially around central square , is ideal for first-time visitors. It offers a central location, rich history, and easy access to major attractions like the Riva Promenade and Saint Domnius Cathedral.
What’s the best area for families in Split?
Žnjan is ideal for families due to its spacious apartments, family-friendly beaches, and quieter environment. It’s slightly removed from the busy city center but still accessible.
Where can budget travelers stay in Split?
Spinut is a budget-friendly area with affordable accommodations. It’s close to Marjan Hill and within walking distance of the city center.
Is parking available in Split’s Old Town?
The Old Town is car-free, so parking within it isn’t possible. However, nearby public parking lots are available for a free.
