The Split, Croatia Old Town is an enchanting web of cobblestone streets that encompasses both Diocletian’s Palace and the adjacent Old City. Our Split Walking Tour is an easy-to-follow, self-guided stroll that features 30 highlights of the ancient enclave.
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Free Walking Tour Split, Croatia
We created our Free Split Walking Tour to help other travelers to Croatia discover the city at their own pace.
Many will complete the route in about 1 hour, but you could easily spend 2 hours or more leisurely navigating the lanes.
Our Split walk includes everything you need – sight information, walking directions and a Split City Tour Map at the end of the article.
Read more of the Best Things To Do in Split!
Walking Tour Split, Croatia: What You Will Need
Before you begin your Self-Guided Walking Tour of Split, we have a few suggestions on things you might want to bring.
Shoes for Split Old Town Walking Tour
While this route is flat, the stone lanes – polished by millions of footsteps – can be slick and sometimes uneven.
We recommend wearing a comfortable, non-slip travel shoes for your Split tour. I travel with light-weight trainers by New Balance, while Kris wears Merrell shoes.
Travel Camera
Split is incredibly photogenic, so consider using a real camera to truly capture it all. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens.
The kit comes with a ton of accessories and it’s a great beginner camera for budding photographers!
Weather Gear & Day Pack
In the summertime, Split is sunny and very hot. Don’t forget sunscreen, a travel hat and sunglasses. These collapsible water bottles are a good idea, too.
Outside of summer, Split can be windy, rainy and cool. Bring a travel umbrella or packable raincoat, just in case! You will also want a great day bag to organize all of your everyday travel items.
Split Free Self-Guided Walk
While exploring Split, it is important to have a basic understanding of the layout. The city sits on a peninsula; with the harbor facing south from of the Old Town.
Okay, now that you are all prepared, it’s time to start the best walking tour in Split!
#1 Split 3D City Model
MAP. An ideal place to start walking tours in Split, the Maketa Grad 3D model provides an overview of Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town.
It shows the clear outline of the palace (the bell tower is at the center) and the Old City that grew to the west of it.
The bronze map sits at the east end of the Riva; the waterfront, café-lined pedestrian zone. We end our free walk of Split at the opposite end.
Walking Directions: Look at the map with the Riva in front of you. Now walk straight ahead to the inconspicuous passageway, which is the entrance into Diocletian’s Palace Basement.
#2 Brass Gate (Mjedena Vrata)
MAP. One of the four gates into the Roman palace (and the least adorned), the Brass Gate opened directly onto the sea, before land reclamation created the Riva.
Diocletian used this gate to enter the palace by boat (which was also ideal for a quick escape in the case of invaders from land).
Before walking through, look up at the stone walls that extend over the tops of the shops. These are the original walls of Diocletian Palace.
Walking Directions: Walk through the gate into the dimly lit space.
#3 Diocletian’s Palace
MAP. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Diocletian’s Palace is an absolute highlight of Split walking tours.
Constructed in the 4th century, it is one of the best-preserved palaces of the Late Antiquity. Emperor Diocletian had the residence built as his seaside retirement home.
After his death, it was eventually left in ruins. In the 7th century, citizens of nearby Salona took refuge here, escaping the invading Slavs.
The new residents altered the interior and transformed it into a city within itself. What remains is merely a frame of what it once was (yet, impressive nonetheless).
The basement, where you are standing now, was used for many years as a dumping ground for refuse.
Fifty years ago, archaeologists dug through the garbage and started to put together pieces of the past.
Additional areas of the preserved space can be explored with a ticket, but for now continue to the next sight on our Split Self-Guided Walking Tour.
Read more about Exploring Diocletian’s Palace
Walking Directions: Go straight through the open basement. Before ascending the steep staircase, detour up and to your right. Here you will find ancient mosaics (Map).
Return to the stairs, climb up and step into the Peristil. Walk to middle, turn around to face south and pause to admire the scene.
#4 Peristil Split
MAP. This grand columned square is where loyal subjects would gather to hear Diocletian speak from the Prothyrum balcony. From here, take in the ancient sights that surround and rise above you.
Tickets are required to go in the next two sites, but they are incredible to look at from outside, too. You can pay and enter them now or circle back at the end of the walk.
Directions: Turn to your left to see the cathedral and belltower.
#5 St. Domnius Cathedral and Split Bell Tower
MAP. Saint Domnius Cathedral was originally built as a mausoleum to host the remains of Diocletian after his death.
After the Fall of Rome, the building was converted into a church. The main altar now stands where Diocletian’s tomb once was.
The ornate bell tower was not added until the 13th century…and took 300 years to complete. Today, it provides an iconic view of the oldest areas of Split.
Walking Directions: With your back to the church, walk toward and through the narrow passage to the right of the ticket office.
#6 Jupiter’s Temple
MAP. The Temple of Jupiter, which dates to the 4th century, was converted into a church in the 6th century.
The headless sphinx that sits at the entry was one of several Egyptian sphinxes that Diocletian used to decorate the palace.
Walking Directions: Look to the left of the temple and find the extremely narrow alley.
#7 Let Me Pass Lane (Pusti Me Proc)
MAP. While many claim that this is the narrowest street in the world, it is definitely the most constricted alleyway in Split!
Go ahead and walk through, then turn around and come back in front of the temple.
Walking Directions: Retrace your steps back into the Peristil and turn right (south). Rather than going down the steps into the basement, walk up to the Prothyrum balcony overlooking the square.
Pause a moment and stand where Diocletian once did, then turn around and walk south into the Vestibul.
#8 The Vestibule (and Split Klapa Singers)
MAP. The circular, domed Vestibule marked the entrance into Diocletian’s living quarters. The towering, open-air space has stunning acoustics. Traditional men’s Klapa singing groups often perform here.
Top Tip: You can climb to the top of the Vestibule for an elevated view. Admission can be purchased separately, but entry is also included with a ticket to the Ethnographic Museum.
Walking Directions: Walk through the Vestibul, skirt around the right side of the museum to the wall that faces the Split Harbor.
Look through the openings to get a glimpse of the Riva below and the sea beyond. Continue to your left in a circle to the stacked red bricks.
#9 Diocletian’s Dining Room
MAP. This octagonal hall was built at the same time as the rest of the palace and likely topped with a dome, but it was only discovered in the 20th century.
Used as a dining room, the connecting spaces were where staff prepared the meals. Pause to take a look around the remains and the soaring Split tower.
Take note of how individual family residences – some of which are still occupied by locals – were built into the existing fortifications.
Walking Directions: Continue north toward the back of the cathedral. Exit through the metal gate and turn left (west) back into the Peristyle. Walk to the north end, where two pedestrian streets intersect.
#10 Ancient Split Streets: Cardo and Decumanus
MAP. This intersection marks the center of Diocletian’s Palace. The original plan divided the interior into four quadrants, segmented by two streets: Cardo and Decumanus.
The southern, sea-facing portion was Diocletian’s living quarters, while the northern half was where servants and soldiers lived.
Cardo (now Dioklecijanova Ulica) is the main north-south street that connects the Brass Gate to the Golden Gate.
Decumanus (now Kresimirova Ulica) runs east-west and forms a direct route between the Silver and Iron gates.
Walking Directions: Leave the Peristil by turning right (east) onto Kresimirova Ulica. Walk along the north side of the cathedral toward the arches and pause before walking through.
#11 Silver Gate (Srebrena Vrata)
MAP. The eastern Silver Gate was once a lavishly decorated entry point. Part of Split’s original fortifications, there were two sets of doors that led into the interior.
Throughout the centuries, the Silver Gate has been embellished and damaged. In the 1700s, a smaller gate was constructed on the north side of the original.
Note: Another unearthed mosaic carpet sits at the back of the cathedral to your right (Map). If interested, go check it out before continuing on your walk!
Walking Directions: Exit through the gate. At the top of the stairs, you will see St. Dominic Church on your right – pop inside if the door is open.
Behind the church is the outdoor Green Market (Gradska Tržnica). Walk to the left of the church and circle through clockwise, returning to the same spot you are now.
#12 Green Market Split
MAP. The Split Green Market buzzes with shoppers in the morning. Take time to peruse the stalls and tables, which are piled high with colorful in-season produce.
Many of the vendors are farmers from rural areas. Note the old-style weight-and-balance scales they use to determine prices. Although locals openly haggle, tourist will pay more.
Walking Directions: Re-enter the palace using the smaller passageway to the right of the gate and walk straight ahead to Nepotova Ulica.
If you have time and an interest in art, consider visiting the gallery of Croatian Artist Emanual Vidovic on your right.
Now turn right (north) and walk up the lane. At the WC sign (pay toilets), turn to left and go through the tunnel onto Papaliceva Street.
Read the informational plaque as you pass Marulic Palace (you will view his statue later) and continue to the museum entrance on your right.
#13 Split City Museum
MAP. The City of Split Museum is housed in the Papalic Palace, which was built for the noble family in the 15th century.
The venue details the history of Diocletian and the city from its origins to more recent times. There is a fee to enter, but step into the courtyard for a look around the stylish entryway.
Walking Directions: Exit the courtyard and turn right (west). At Dioklecijanova (the first intersection), pause and look to your left at the beautiful arched passageway over the street. Turn right (north) onto Dioklecijanova and walk to the next city gate.
#14 Golden Gate (Zlatna Vrata)
MAP. This gate is the most extravagant of the four. Once the main entrance (for those arriving from the emperor’s hometown of Salona), the Golden Gate was heavily fortified and decorated. The vast inner courtyard was built as a last line of defense against invaders.
Walking Directions: Walk through the gate to the large statue at the top of the stairs.
#15 Gregory of Nin Statue (Grgur Ninski)
MAP. This giant bronze statue resembles a wild wizard, but is actually dedicated to Gregory of Nin (Bishop of Nin).
In the 10th century, he implemented the use of the local language at mass, rather than the standard Latin.
His actions made him a local hero and he is still celebrated today. In fact, it is said that rubbing his big toe brings good luck, so go ahead and give it a polish!
To the west of the statue are ruins of an ancient church. The Bell Tower of the Holy Arnir Chapel and the glass encased Church of St. Euphemia are all that remain after a bombing in 1944 during World War II.
Behind the statue is the leafy Strossmayera Park, a lush green space with a fountain at the center. It’s a great spot to take a break in the shade!
Walking Directions: Re-enter through the Golden Gate. Take your first right through the passageway, which makes a sharp right turn, stopping at the staircase.
#16 St. Martin’s Church Split
MAP. Utilizing the space that was once a guardhouse, St. Martin’s is one of the oldest – and likely the smallest – church in the Split Old Town.
The narrow church is accessed via a short staircase and the interior is sparsely decorated, although the altar screen dates to the 11th century.
Dominican nuns from the adjacent monastery care for the church and there is a small fee to enter.
Walking Directions: Go west on Majstora Jurja Ulica, passing a long row of cafes and bars. The ones to your right are built right into the palace walls, like Teak, which has many preserved historical features.
At Mandrill’s Brewpub, turn left (south) onto Rodrigina Ulica. Follow it to the end (by Uje Winebar) and do a quick left-then-right onto Bajamontijeva. Walk south toward the high arches overhead. At the intersection, turn right to the…
#17 Iron Gate (Zeljezna Vrata)
MAP. Marking the western entrance, the Iron Gate leads into People’s Square. Originally, it was used as an entrance for the military.
However, as the city expanded to the west, the defensive gate was used for a variety of purposes, including a courthouse and small marketplace.
A church was built in the walls above the gate (much like St. Martin’s Church), along with a bell tower (which you will get a better look at later).
Walking Directions: Pass through into the square. Turn right (north) and take a few steps then look down the length of the open space.
#18 East End of People’s Square (Narodni Trg)
MAP. Also called Pjaca (pronounced piazza), this has been a central square since the town of Split began to expand beyond the palace walls.
At first, it was home to many of the people working at the palace, but in the 14th and 15th centuries, government buildings were added.
In fact, the Ciprianis-Benedetti Palace stands right on the south corner of Iron Gate. It dates to 1394 and features a carved relief of St. Anthony the Hermit and a depiction of Adam and Eve, as well as ornate columned windows.
The white stone building on the north side – with Gothic windows and a loggia – is the Old Town Hall. It was built in 1443.
The pastel pink building at the far end is the Nakic House. Built in the early 1900s, it’s the oldest Art Nouveau structure in the city.
Today, hotels, cafes and restaurants ring the Pjaca – as well as a number of shops selling tourist trinkets.
Walking Directions: We’ll pass through the opposite end later, so for now exit to the north on Bosanska. Look for Zidovski Prolaz, a narrow alley on your right, and walk down it.
#19 Split Synagogue
MAP. Although Split has never had a particularly large Jewish population, there have been Jews living here for centuries.
This synagogue dates to the 16th century, which makes it one of the oldest in Europe. It’s built on the second story of two ancient adjoining Medieval houses. The surrounding area was once called the Jewish Ghetto.
Walking Directions: Retrace your steps back to Bosanska, turn right and continue walking north. Consider stopping at Tradicija – the oldest bakery in town – for something sweet.
Continuing north, take your second left onto Petra Kruzica. Walk past Villa Spiza (one of our suggested Restaurants in Split).
At Sanctuary (which is one of our favorite Split Bars), veer to the right and continue west to where the street widens. Stop and look behind you at the green doors.
#20 Split Mosque
MAP. Occupying a former monastery, the mosque in Split is a place of prayer for the city’s small Islamic community.
The unassuming Mosque and Islamic Center has been open since 1990 and welcome’s interested visitors.
Walking Directions: With your back to the Mosque, continue west. The stone balcony on the right is part of the Geremia Palace; straight ahead is the Church of the Holy Spirit. To take a peek inside, continue straight and find the door on your right.
Now follow Domaldova south, veer left-then-right and walk back into the opposite end of People’s Square.
#21 West End of People’s Square
MAP. At the far end – where you entered before through the Iron Gate – look above at the rising bell tower. Note the Medieval 24-hour clock on the tower.
Also take a peek (or even stop in for a beverage) at the charming courtyard bar of the Judita Palace Heritage Hotel.
Walking Directions: Continue south on Pavla Šubića. Walk the length of the street to where it ends in yet another cute square!
#22 Radić Brothers Square (aka Fruit Square)
MAP. Officially named after the founders of a political movement, the common moniker is due to the space once being used as a produce market.
Upon entering Fruit Square, the first building you see is the imposing Venetian Tower. The defensive stronghold was built in the 15th century and was part of a larger castle that was destroyed during the Napoleonic Wars.
To your left is the statue of Marko Marulic, a revered 15th century Croatian philosopher, poet and intellectual. Behind it is the 17th century Milesi Family Palace, which features a beautiful Baroque façade.
Walking Directions: Facing the statue, turn left, walk the length of the square and exit on Dobric Ulica. Veer to the left and go past the vibrant and colorful Jaman Art Center.
Turn right around the corner of the gallery and walk to the end of the street. Turn left on Zadarska Ulica and go through the square and the arched passageway on the far side to…
#23 Marmontova
MAP. This pedestrian promenade is the city’s shopping street that connects the Riva to the National Theater. Lined with lampposts, it features streets performers, boutique shops and designer brands.
Consider popping into Aura Family Distillery for some Croatian Brandy tasting. We can personally vouch for their quality products; we loved visiting their main location on our Istrian Day Tour!
Walking Directions: As you walk north, there are many sights to see, beginning with…
#24 The Spa of Split
MAP. The Art Nouveau Sumporne Toplice, which features the busts of several topless women, was constructed in 1903 over natural Sulphur springs.
The mineral waters were used to treat rheumatic ailments. Today, there is still a medical facility on the premises, but it is no longer used as a public bath house.
Pro Tip: The odorous, yet healing, Sulphur water that flows through Split (yes, that is what you are smelling) is thought to be what prompted Diocletian, a sufferer of rheumatic disease, to move here.
Walking Directions: Just north and set back to the east of the Split Spa is the…
#25 Split Fish Market (Peskarija or Ribarnica)
MAP. Located on the Adriatic Sea, it is not surprising that Split has a thriving fish market. The small but boisterous bizarre has operated on this site for more than 100 years.
In the morning, the indoor market offers a wide selection of fresh caught seafood. While the pungent odor would normally attract flies, they apparently don’t like the rotten egg scent of Sulphur water!
Walking Directions: Continue walking north on Marmontova Street.
#26 Funnel Fountain (Pirja Fountain)
MAP. This modern art Funnel Fountain was installed in 1998. Water is intermittently sprayed from the hand high on the wall and is supposed to splash into the funnel. Due to the wind, it often splashes passersby instead!
The spout is formed in a semi-profane hand gesture called the Figa sign. It’s made by pushing the thumb between the index and middle fingers and is used when denying someone’s request – but in a humorous way.
Walking Directions: Continue walking north, past the large art mural on your right, to the National Theater.
#27 Croatian National Theater Split
MAP. Dating to 1893, the stunning yellow Split Croatian National Theater is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city.
The theater hosts about 300 performances a year, including ballet, opera and plays. Although ravaged by fire in 1970, it was renovated and re-opened in 1980.
Walking Directions: Facing the theater, turn to your right (north) and look at the…
#28 Our Lady of Health Church (Gospa od Zdravlja)
MAP. The white, columned Church of Our Lady of Health was built in 1936 featuring a Modernist style. While the exterior is relatively unadorned, the interior features a colorful fresco filling an entire wall.
Walking Directions: Facing the theater, walk ahead on the lane to the left. Then turn left and go south on Matosica Ulica.
The pedestrian lane is lined with boutique shops and restaurants and ends at some parking spaces. Here, take your first left through the arch (across from Old House Street Food).
#29 Republic Square (Trg Republike)
MAP. The dazzling neo-Renaissance Republic Square – often called Prokurative – was built in the middle of the 19th century.
The grand space of contrasting colors features opulent arches and was designed in likeness to St. Mark’s Square in Venice.
The three-sided square opens on the south to the Split Harbor and the Adriatic Sea beyond. Fronting Republic Square is the Vodoskok (water fountain), which marks the western end of the Split Riva.
Walking Directions: Walk to the fountain and turn left (east) to look down the length of the pedestrian Riva.
#30 The Split Riva
MAP. The waterfront promenade is the buzzing center of the Split’s cafe culture. It’s popular with visitors and locals alike and an ideal place for morning coffee or an afternoon glass of Croatian wine.
People stroll up and down the Riva in a steady flow, while families, couples and weary travelers rest on the numerous benches and just take it all in.
This marks the end of our Split Self Guided Walking Tour. Thank you for coming along!
Split Walking Tour Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our City of Split Walking Tour Map below.
After Your Split, Croatia Walking Tour
Need more ideas of what to see? After completing our free walking tour of Split, use our tips below to continue your sightseeing adventure!
Pro Tip: For longer stays, use our 3-Day Split Itinerary to help plan your trip.
Navigate Hidden Lanes
One of our favorite things to do in Split is to wander along the hidden lanes – it’s hard to get lost and you never know what you might find!
Marvel at the tangle of cobblestone streets behind the Old Town Hall. Find quaint squares behind the Nakic House. Stumble upon a craft beer bar (Leopold’s) and concealed cafe (Zalogajnica Dioklecijan).
Stroll the Split Marina to Sustipan Park
Even if you have just one day in Split, you can extend your walking tour to the west and find a lovely green space with sea vistas.
From the Riva, pass by the Matejustka fisherman’s port, which is an excellent spot for Split city views and to-go drinks from Little Beer Shop across the street.
Continue along the “West Coast” past the marina and to the elevated Sustipan Park on the cliffs over the ocean.
Pro Tip: Those still full of energy can continue along the coastline, which leads to some of the Best Beaches in Split.
Wander Through Varos up to Marjan Hill
If you’re looking for some nature, begin the ascent to Marjan Hill (aka the lungs of Split). From the fountain, go to the right of St. Frane Church (which is nice to pop into for a quick visit), and up through the Varos neighborhood to stellar Split viewpoints!
Pro Tip: For the best hiking routes, use our Guide to Marjan Hill.
More Split Tours
While our Split Free Tour is the perfect way to start your exploration, there are numerous themed walks, too.
Split Food Tour
A fun Food Walking Tour Split, participants of the small group tour get to taste-test their way through the city, indulging in delicacies while learning the city’s history. Sign up here!
Alternatively, join a local guide on a culinary tour through both Split Markets to gather items for a traditional meal – and then work with a local chef to create a feast! Find out more!
Split Wine Tour
On a Split, Croatia wine tour, learn about the history of Split on a walking tour – and then end the tour with a 50-minute Split wine tasting. Get the details!
Pro Tip: Looking for a Split Beer Tour? Join a guide on a city walking tour of Split and then sample local brews fresh from the source! Reserve your space!
Game of Thrones Walking Tour Split
Several sites in Split were used as filming locations for the popular Game of Thrones television series. Fans of the show can join a highly rated Split GOT Tour.
On the Split Game of Thrones Walking Tour, participants see multiple filming locations and learn insider filming location secrets.
Split Bike Tour
Not up for walking in Split? No worries – see the best of Split on two wheels! Join a guided 3-hour small-group bike tour in Split to see the city and the surroundings. Reserve your spot!
Rickshaw Tours Split
We outlined the Best Free Walking Tour Split Old Town – but there is so much more to see in the city!
If your feet are feeling tired, hop in a rickshaw and let a local tour guide take you to some of the best spots in the city. Visitors can ride a pedaled rickshaw or an eco electric cart.
Split Private Tour
While group tours can be fun, it’s often more interesting to join a private walking tour. Visitors who want a private tour of Split can hire a guide for a personalized guided walking tour – like this one!
More Croatia Destination Information
Visiting other Top Croatia Cities? Croatia is one of our favorite countries in the world – and we are bursting with tips to share about visiting! We share all of our top advice in our guide to Planning the Best Croatia Vacation.
Travelers can also read our 3-Day Itinerary for our top picks of the Must Do Things in Split, Croatia.
Whether you are planning to visit Split in one day or are staying for a full week, you can use the tips that we share to help plan your perfect trip.
As you make your travel plans, be sure to stay organized with our Trip Planning Printables!
Walking Tours in Croatia Top Destinations
Like Split, many Croatia destinations are best explored on foot. Use our self-guided free walking tours for top destinations.
Top Things To Do in the Best Places in Croatia
We share heaps of information for things to do in other Croatian destinations, as well! Use our guides to help plan your trip.
- Things To Do in Sibenik
- What To See in Rovinj
- Hvar Island: Visit Hvar Town or Stari Grad…or Both!
- Visit Korcula Island
- Go to the Makarska Riviera
- Get Off The Beaten Path in Osijek
Find all our detailed articles on our Croatia Travel Guides page.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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