Top 10 Things to See in Split's Old Town

The 10 Must-See Sights in Split's Old Town

Split's Old Town isn't just a collection of ruins with plaques — it's a living, breathing neighborhood built inside a 1,700-year-old Roman palace. Here's what a local guide says you absolutely cannot miss.

1. Diocletian's Palace Cellars (Basement Halls)

The underground halls beneath the palace are among the best-preserved Roman structures anywhere in the world. Originally built as a substructure to level the sloped ground for the palace above, these vaulted halls give you the clearest picture of the palace's original layout.

Pro tip: Visit early morning to avoid crowds. The cellars are also where Game of Thrones filmed the dragon dungeon scenes — fans will recognize it instantly.

2. The Peristyle

This grand colonnaded square was the ceremonial center of the palace, where Emperor Diocletian would appear before his subjects. Today, it's the beating heart of Split's social life — locals sit on the steps, musicians play, and cafés spill onto the ancient stones.

Pro tip: Come at night when the Peristyle is beautifully lit and the atmosphere is magical.

3. Cathedral of St. Domnius

Built inside Diocletian's octagonal mausoleum, this is one of the oldest cathedral buildings in the world still in use. The irony is delicious — the Christian cathedral was built inside the tomb of the emperor who was one of Christianity's greatest persecutors.

Pro tip: Climb the bell tower for the best panoramic view of Split. It's a narrow climb but absolutely worth it.

4. Jupiter's Temple (St. John's Baptistery)

Originally a Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter, this remarkably preserved building was later converted into a Christian baptistery. Inside, you'll find a beautiful baptismal font with the earliest known relief of a Croatian king.

5. The Golden Gate and Gregory of Nin

The northern entrance to the palace is the most impressive of the four gates. Just outside stands the towering bronze statue of Gregory of Nin by Ivan Meštrović. Touch his big toe for good luck — it's polished gold from millions of lucky touches.

6. The Riva Waterfront Promenade

Split's famous palm-lined promenade stretches along the southern wall of the palace. This is where locals come for their evening stroll (korzo), to sip coffee, and to watch the ferries glide across the harbor.

Pro tip: The Riva is best enjoyed in the early evening with an ice cream or coffee from one of the many waterfront cafés.

7. Pazar Green Market

Just east of the palace walls, this daily market is where locals buy fresh produce, dried figs, lavender sachets, and local honey. It's vibrant, colorful, and gives you a genuine taste of daily Croatian life.

Pro tip: Go before 11 AM for the best selection. Try the dried figs — they're a Split specialty.

8. Velo Varoš (Fishermen's Quarter)

This charming neighborhood west of the palace center was historically home to Split's fishermen and working class. Narrow stone lanes, colorful laundry, cats on windowsills, and tiny neighborhood konobas (taverns) make this the most photogenic corner of Split.

9. Marjan Hill Viewpoint

Technically just outside the Old Town, the Marjan Hill forest park rewards a short uphill walk with spectacular views over the city, islands, and the Adriatic. The first viewpoint (Vidilica) is just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town.

Pro tip: Go at sunset for the most unforgettable views.

10. The Iron Gate and People's Square (Narodni Trg)

The western gate leads into the People's Square, which was the center of medieval Split. It's surrounded by beautiful Renaissance and Gothic buildings, and today hosts some of the city's best cafés.

How to See It All

You could wander through these sights on your own, but a free walking tour connects them all with stories, context, and insider knowledge that transforms a sightseeing checklist into a genuine understanding of Split's remarkable history.

Our Classic Old Town Walk covers all 10 of these sights in 1.5 hours — and it's completely free. Pay what you wish at the end.