Old Town Split Croatia -
A New Superstar in Cruise Itineraries

Are you looking to visit the Old Town Split Croatia that everyone's talking about? Being a Croatian myself I always loved telling our cruise guests about things to see and do in Split, how to plan your day and how to get there from your crusie ship's dock. Now I've put these pages together to help you, too.

Please note: our Split section is still under construction. More articles coming up soon!

Here's everything you need to know and make the most of your visit to the Old town of Split:

Where exactly is Old Town Split Croatia?

Not even sure where the city of Split, Croatia is located?

The city of Split is located on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea (part of the Mediterranean Sea), in the southern part of Croatia.

It is situated in the region known as Dalmatia.

Sounds familiar? Yes, it is the homeland to Dalmatian dogs we all know from the Disney's movies and cartoons.

Although I come from the continental part of Croatia, I must admit: this is the most attractive part of my homeland!

What I find most appealing is its stunning coastline, great wines, historic cities, and picturesque islands. And you will remember my words when you get there and experience it for yourselves.

It's also good to know Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and serves as the administrative center of Split-Dalmatia County.

The city is made up of the modern day Split and the Old town which is where you want to go on this short cruisers' day.

Is there an Old Town in Split Croatia close to cruise port?

Split Croatia seen from the top deck of MSC Symphonia

Indeed, Split has one of the oldest Old Towns in the world, and it's within walking distance from the cruise port.

I've heard it many times while working on cruiseships: you want to go to the beach while in the Mediterranean. But trust me, on this day you don't want to miss seeing the Old town as it is a very, very unique place.

What makes this place so unique?

First of all, it was built in the fourth century AD by the Roman emperor Diocletian. Yes, you got it right, this city has existed in the same place for almost 2000 years.

How? Let me explain...the emperor Diocletian's ancient palace forms the core of the city of Split's Old Town.

Before anything else, this palace compound housed a military garrison, but also the emperor's fortified residence.

The palace has changed and evolved over the ages, but many of its original constructions are still in place today - you can see them, touch them, take photos of them. It's like a time machine!

The Old Town of Split is a labyrinth of winding streets, ruins of buildings, and important historical sites like the Temple of Jupiter, Peristyle Square, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Katedrala Svetog Duje).

You want to visit them all on this day (and you surely can) and I will tell you how!

With its lively and bustling atmosphere, the stores, cafes, and restaurants tucked away among the historic ruins, the Old town offers tourists a thrilling look into Split's rich past and cultural traditions.

Why visit the Old Town of Split?

Layer upon layer of history in Split!

Why visit it? Is it worth taking a cruise to Split?

Having cruised to Split on a weekly basis for five summers in a row, I can tell you why:

In the recent years Split has emerged as the newest must-visit destination in the cruising world.

But not only that! It has also become well-known as a filming location for several motion pictures and television shows, which really enhanced its appeal as a top travel destination.

For instance, many of the iconic Game of Thrones scenes were filmed here. The Weekend Away is another film that captures the charm of Split against the backdrop of its scenic beauty and historic landmarks.

There is also the Netflix sailing reality series Below Deck Sailing Yacht. In one of the seasons, this series shows the breathtaking coastline and scenic beauty of Split and its surrounding islands by following the crew of a luxury sailing yacht as they sail the Adriatic Sea.

I remember when the Old Town Split Croatia was one of the new ports Royal Caribbean had started offering in their itineraries. At the time, Split was a quaint and peaceful town in the Dalmatian region where residents could enjoy their relaxed Mediterranean way of life free from the bustle of tourists.

They could stroll along the palm-lined Riva promenade wearing their brand new sunglasses and soak up the sun, pick up some fresh fish for lunch, enjoy coffee with friends, and shop for groceries at the green market leisurely.

Afternoon naps, or 'fjaka' as we call them in Croatia, were customary, and early evenings were spent under the shade playing card games or balote. People would congregate in what is known as 'konobas', which are traditional Dalmatian pubs, to enjoy bevanda, which is red wine mixed with water, and hearty local fare. They would frequently break into impromptu 'klapa' music or lively conversations about the most recent Hajduk club football match.

This is just part of the atmosphere of the Old Town Split Croatia that, together with its rich history, ancient ruins, natural beauties, and culinary delights, answer the question of why visit the Old Town of Split Croatia.

I think what has made Split and its surroundings popular in recent years is the authentic way of life they provide us with, a taste of the Mediterranean way of life as it used to be.

Pair it with turquoise seas, a thousand islands along the coast, great food and welcoming people, and there you go!

Riva promenade is the place to see and be seen in Split

Is Split nicer than Dubrovnik?

When we visited both of these on the same cruise, this was the most frequent question I used to get: Is Split nicer than Dubrovnik?

Well, based on my experience, Croatia's breathtaking coastal cities, Split and Dubrovnik, each have their own special allure.

Both cities have different personalities despite of both having a wealth of cultural attractions, a stunning landscape, and a rich history.

Split feels more urban and busy, emphasizing its Roman heritage and lively street life (more similar to Naples, Italy), while Dubrovnik attracts tourists with its beautifully preserved medieval and baroque architecture and timeless elegance (feels similar to Florence although the architecture is different).

Ultimately, in my opinion, visitors exploring the Croatian coast will have an incredible time in both Split and Dubrovnik, whether they choose the vibrant energy of Split or the classic beauty of Dubrovnik.

Roman soldiers in Diocletian's palace Split

Roman soldiers making sure you behave in the Emperor's home

How many days in Split is enough?

Of course, if the old town Split Croatia is one of the ports in the middle of your itinerary, you will only have one day (8-10 hours) in this charming Mediterranean town.

But if you are starting or ending your cruise here, keep in mind that three days is a good amount of time to see Split, Croatia's surroundings, and experience some of the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the area.

If you have three days, you could spend one of them touring Split's historic sites, which include the Riva promenade, Diocletian's Palace, and Marjan Hill.

The next two days you can explore the gorgeous surrounding towns and natural settings.

I think that Visiting the National Park of Krka with its breathtaking waterfalls is a great idea for day trips from Split (especially on a hot summers day when it's good to be by the water).

As an alternative, you might visit the charming cities of Šibenik and Trogir, which are renowned for their medieval architecture and rich cultural history.

If this is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to visit this part of the world, and you are flying out from Zagreb after your cruise, you may even visit Plitvice Lakes, a stunning National park that makes people travel half the world round to see it!

Are there eastern Mediterranean cruises from Split in Croatia?

Yes, there are cruise companies that make it possible for you to embark on your cruise in Split!

If you're just interested in visiting Croatian ports of call, Venice is a popular departure port for Mediterranean cruises that explore the Adriatic Sea, with some itineraries also including stops in Split, Zadar, Šibenik, Rijeka and Dubrovnik.

Additionally, there may be smaller cruise companies or local operators offering short cruises or island-hopping trips departing from Split, too.

However, MSC Cruiselines gives you an option of embarking your cruise ship (MSC Sinfonia) in Split as well, although this ship's official turnaround port is Venice.

Many Croatians take advantage of this option and so can you! You can read my MSC cruise report on the page Cruises from Split Croatia.

MSC Sinfonia on dock in Split

How far is the cruise port from Split Croatia Old Town?

What you'll love about Split cruise dock is that the Old Town is within walking distance from it.

Spending less time on transportation gives you more time for shore excursions outside Split - there's enough time for everything on this day, isn't this great?

I am giving you detailed, step-by-step instructions on getting from the cruise port to the Old town Split on my page Split Croatia cruise port.

What is the best way to get around Split and its surroundings?

In my opinion, the best way to get around Split is on foot, of course.

The Old Town is within a huge structure that once used to be a Roman palace - in the Middle Ages, people started building inside it and it preserved the layout of the streets up to this day.

As in all medieval towns, the streets are narrow, winding and slippery - that's why the only way you can get around is on foot, wearing comfortable shoes.

When it comes to getting to the attractions and little towns in the surroundings, you have a few options:

Taxis
Uber
Shore excursions

You will find out more tips on those in my articles that focus on specific destinations around Split.

What are the Old Town Split Croatia top attractions?

Everyone wants to know what the top attractions in the Old town of Split are - I know you don't want to miss a thing in this fantastic port!

The coastal Town of Split is a real treasure trove - even the most seasoned cruisers will have to admit they have never walked, eaten, or enjoyed a glass of wine inside a palace that was once the home to a Roman emperor, in this case Diocletian! You can explore its hidden corners and squares for hours.

Not only can you get lost in the labyrinth of its alleyways and enjoy the Mediterranean way of life shoulder to shoulder with its citizens, but you can also explore the huge underground structure of the palace's mysterious cellars!

That's just the two top attractions, the rest I will keep a secret until you read my article on Split Croatia attractions.

What are the best shore excursions in and around Split?

Being by the water on a hot summer's day feels great. Enjoying the Krka waterfalls.

Let me tell you - cruisers' days in port can be extremely time-limited! Still, make sure you get on one of the shore excursions in Split!

Either to one of the walking tours that explore the historical part of the town, or one that will take you to one of the smaller towns outside Split.

I can't stress enough how important it is to learn from someone local on this day - they will put things into perspective for you.

Even I, who am a Croatian and have a Masters in archaeology, always learn something new on those tours and shore excursions.

As a matter of fact, the best shore excursions in and around Split are those that combine both: seeing a destination ouside Split, and finishing the tour by taking you into the Old town (you always get some time to explore on your own after the tour).

My suggestion is to pick a tour from one of these groups of shore excursions:

Split and Diocletian's palace walking tours
Split gastro tours and wine tastings
Split and Trogir (a charming Mediterranean seaside town located on a peninsula) shore excursions
Split and Šibenik (a lovely seaside town with a stunning cathedral) tours
Krka waterfalls tours (stunning National park!)

For those who don't have the time to keep reading each article separately, here are my top picks from each category: