On your summer şailing vacation, are you looking for a spot to lounge on some of Europe’s finest beaches, float in sparkling blue and turquoise seas, savor Mediterranean flavours, and explore ancient ruins?
Split has it all, from the sun to the sea to the archaeology.
Remember, SkipperCity is here to help you locate the best boat rentals in Split so you can make the most of your vacation along the Dalmatian Coast.
Are you ready to discover the beautiful coast that surrounds this historic and welcoming city? Let’s get started!
Split, Croatia’s second largest capital, is an ideal location for exploring and enjoying vast architectural marvels, pristine beaches, beautiful islands, lively nightlife, and exceptional cuisine.
Emperor Diocletian chose to retire near the Roman city of Salona, whose ruins can still be seen today, and formed Split about 17 centuries ago.
His royal palace was built between 300 and 400 A.D., but due to the tumultuous years that followed the collapse of the Roman Empire in the area, the palace miraculously turned into the vibrant city that we see today.
Diocletian’s Palace and the old city beyond its walls were inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List in 1979.
Launch your day on the Riva, Split’s well-known seafront promenade.
This palm-lined esplanade is ideal for soaking up the sun and sea breeze while sipping a cup of Kafi (coffee) before exploring what lies beyond the ancient walls.
Take a tour of this impressive substructure with ancient columns and brick vaults that housed Emperor Diocletian’s chambers above via Split’s Bronze Gate.
Today, the substructure holds a variety of cultural events, such as plays and art shows, as well as some interesting souvenir and handicraft shops.
When you walk out onto the Peristyle, the palace’s central square, you’ll be surrounded by incredible architectural treasures that bear witness to Split’s heritage, which stretches from ancient Rome to the Renaissance and Baroque periods.
Today, this bustling public square remains an important part of city life. You may find yourself sitting in a circle around the square to watch a concert, a reception, or even tango dancing under the stars.
Split, by the way, hosts a variety of cultural events during the year.
There is always something going on in this vibrant area, from numerous concerts to festivals showcasing local cuisine, wine, and films.
Take time to tour the city’s museums and cafés as you begin to discover the ancient ruins and narrow passageways of the once royal palace, and sample Split’s romantic and dynamic nightlife in an open-air bar or club.
Not to mention Split’s traditional taverns and new restaurants, all of which serve delectable food, wine, and olive oils. We recommend stopping for lunch at Bajamonti, which is situated in the Trg Republike (Republican Square), a vibrantly colored Venetian-style courtyard with views of the port and the glistening harbor.
The Croatian specialties at Bajamonti are based on traditional recipes but enhanced with fresh ingredients and new twists. The black pljukanci (traditional Croatian pasta) with prosciutto, arugula, and grana padano cheese in a black truffle and prosecco sauce, as well as the calamari popara (traditional Croatian fish dish), are both highly recommended.
Buffet Fife, a traditional tavern popular with both locals and tourists, is also a good option. In a relaxed atmosphere, Fife serves big, tasty portions of traditional Croatian cuisine.
Begin with a serving of typical cured ham, then move on to the paticada (beef cooked in a wine stew and served with gnocchi).
And, if that wasn’t enough to whet your appetite, check out our featured post for more information on Croatian cuisine.
Many more impressive offerings can be found beyond the palace walls.
A walk through Marjan Forest Park, a green oasis popular with both locals and visitors, is recommended, where you can take in breathtaking views, relax in beach alcoves, or even go rock climbing.
Cruising or sailing along the coast is a great way to see the turquoise, bright blue, and crystal clear seas, bays, grottos, beaches, and alcoves that surround the port.
SkipperCity has over a thousand fantastic boat rentals in Split, whether you’re looking for a grand yacht, a picturesque sailboat, or a comfortable cruiser.
If you need any ideas for your trip? Check out our sailing itinerary, which begins in Split’s historic (but modern) harbor!
You may be tempted to visit more of Croatia’s beautiful beaches after discovering Split. Take a look at our top recommendations!
The best times to sail, according to Croatia Traveler, are late spring (April through June) and early fall (September through October), when the sea is quiet, there are less people, and the weather is still good and bright.
In addition, April is the ideal month to pay tribute to Split’s maritime history at the Croatia Boat Show or the Olympic Sailing Week, where you can participate in a thrilling international regatta (boat races).
Don’t forget the SkipperCity is on hand to assist you in discovering the best of Croatia by sea.