Diocletian's Palace

Diocletian's Palace is perhaps one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence. Although the original structure was modified in the Middle Ages, the alterations have only served to increase the allure of this fascinating site. Far from being a museum, the 220 buildings within the palace boundaries are home to about 3000 people.

Golden Gate

The Golden Gate was once the starting point for the road to Solin. From the fragments that remain, it's possible to visualise the statues, columns and arches that once decorated the gate.

Arheološki Muzej (Archaeological Museum)

North of the town centre, the Archaeological Museum is well worth a visit. Exhibits are devoted to burial sculpture and excavations at Salona, with an emphasis on the Roman and early Christian period.

Kino Bacvice

In the summer, the after-dark entertainment zone of Bačvice plays host to an open-air cinema that runs nightly.

Cathedral of St Domnius

This cathedral was originally built as Diocletian's mausoleum. The original octagonal form of the mausoleum, encircled by 24 columns, has been almost completely preserved. The domed interior has two rows of Corinthian columns and a frieze showing Emperor Diocletian and his wife, Prisca.

Cathedral Treasury

The cathedral treasury is rich in reliquaries, icons, church robes, illuminated manuscripts and documents in Glagolitic script.

Bekan - Ivana Zajca 1 Firule

Bekan serves an array of Dalmatian style fish. It's not cheap (unless you order the spaghetti with seafood for around HRK52), but you can sample a savoury shrimp buzara (a sauce of tomatoes, white wine, onions and breadcrumbs) on an airy terrace overlooking the sea.

Nostromo - Kraj Sv Marije 10 Town Centre

Marine creatures of all persuasions feature on a delightful menu in this sweetly decorated spot next to the fish market.

Galija - Tončićeva 12 Town Centre

Serving the best pizza in town, this perennial favourite still gathers a lively young crowd.

Markets

To bag a bargain or simply appreciate the colour of local life in Split, head to Pazar, the charming open-air market, or Peskarija, the covered fish market, both are just on the fringes of Diocletian's Palace.

Key Areas

Diocletian's Palace and the surrounding area is Split's shopping heartland. Podrum (the underground chambers between the Riva and Peristil), which is lined with stalls selling paintings and craftwork, is a good bet for souvenirs. Enoteka Terra, Prilaz brace Kaliterna 6, is ideal for quality Croatian wines and spirits. Aromatica, Dobrić 12, stocks herb-scented soaps, body creams and massage oils.

Opening Times

Shops in Split are generally open Monday to Friday 0900-1300 and 1700-2000, Saturday 0900-1300, and sometimes on Sundays.

Everything you could wish for to while away your summer nights can be found in Split. Split locals party with Mediterranean abandon and then relax during the day on the beach. The two main hotspots are Diocletian's Palace and the Bacvice complex a couple of kilometres east of town.

Within the Diocletian palace walls are new bars, cafes and hangouts which are constantly slipping in and out of fashion. On the other hand, the Bacvice complex houses a multitude of restaurants, clubs, and bars that overlook the beach.

Diocletian's Palace Area

Cafe Song & Cafe Shook: Popular with the young people, these cafe-pubs sit next door to each other on Mihovilova Sirina.

Po Bota: On Subiceva, this is a mellow hangout for sipping coffee or sampling a beer or two.

Gaetto Club: On Dosud, this club is arty and comfortable at any time of the day.

Other Areas

Kino Bacvice: The after-dark entertainment zone of Bačvice is a perfect venue for the open-air cinema that runs nightly in summer.

Tribu: When Tara Reid taped an episode of her show at this ultrahip Split club it became an obligatory stop on the international nightclub circuit. Dance until you drop.