Where to stay in Split [Best Places to Stay for 2025]
As Croatia tourism grows, so does the popularity of the Dalmation Coast and the city of Split, Croatia. Unlike Dubrovnik, which is quite small and mostly for tourists, Split is an actual city with residential areas in addition to the tourist areas.
There are many unique neighbourhoods in Split, so it can be difficult to determine the best area for tourists and the best Split hotels. With this article, we help you find the best places to stay in Split, Croatia, including the best Split accommodation for every budget.
We will cover off all types of Split accommodation options from Hostels to luxury Split hotels as well as how to decide where to stay in Split Croatia 2025.
This guide shows off the best Split hotels, best places in Split to visit, the best places to stay in Split, hotels near Split attractions, Split neighborhood guide and many more. Check out the below guide on where to stay in Split Croatia.
| ❤️ Best Area first timers | Old Town Split |
| 💸 Best Luxury Hotel | Hotel Agava Split |
| 👪 Best Hotel for For Families | Apartments Tudor |
| 🏨 Best Mid Range Hotel | Lanterna Rooms |
| 🛏️ Best Budget Hotel | Assi Room |
| ✨ Best Hostel | Downtown Hostel |
Below are 8 of the best neighbourhoods in Split to help you make the right decision when trying to work out best area to stay in Split for you. We have tried to make the guide as easy to follow as possible.
We have also included some things to do or places to visit as well as some eatery suggestions of either our favourite places within the areas in Split so you can use this as a go to guide.
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Old Town Split – Where to stay in Split for first timers
Everything in Split will be described in relation to the location of the palace. From your Old Town hotel, you will also be in walking distance of the Riva.
Why stay in Old Town Split:
For first-time visitors, Split Old Town is the best location in Split. Old town is one of the best places to stay in Split Croatia. It’s super easy to get around to see all the sights and has such an old world feeling to it.
This waterfront promenade is the center of all activity in Old Town, and is a great spot for people watching. If you are choosing where to stay in Split with family, Old Town is a great option.
Things to do in Old Town Split:
- Wonder around the Diocletian’s Palace
This is the area immediately surrounding Diocletian’s Palace, and is home to the most historic attractions in Split. The most famous landmark in Split and a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the Diocletian’s Palace. You will be fascinated by this place even if history isn’t exactly your thing.
This magnificent Roman structure dates to the fourth century. Although some of the original walls are still standing today, Split’s old city is largely taken up by the palace’s ruins, with newer structures, bars, and businesses strewn about in and around it.
- See Split from above at Cathedral of St. Domnius
The Cathedral of St. Domnius is located just off the Peristyle. Although Split Cathedral’s history and architecture is remarkable, the best feature is the view from the bell tower (57m). You won’t regret taking the roughly 200 steps, I promise!
Some of the best hotels in Split Croatia can be found in Old Town. If you are arriving by bus, boat or train, Old Town is also the transportation hub of Split.
Where to stay in Split Old Town
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Split Old Town
Budget accommodation in Split Old Town
Mid range accommodation in Split Old Town
- Villa Split Heritage Hotel
- Hotel Slavija
- Hotel Vestibul Palace & Villa – Small Luxury Hotels Of The World
- Hotel Lorenco centar Split
Family Friendly accommodation in Split Old Town
- Kastel 1700 Boutique Hotel
- Judita Palace Heritage Hotel
- Heritage Hotel Antique Split
- Apartment Luxury Palace No1
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Split Old Town
- Penthouse Matkovic
- Heritage hotel Santa Lucia
- Piazza Heritage Hotel
- Palace Suites Heritage Hotel – Adults Only
Dobrić – Where to stay in Split on a budget
Just north of the palace is the area known as Dobrić, one of Split’s oldest neighborhoods.
Why stay in Dobrić:
A little less polished than other more popular neighborhoods, Dobrić is perfect for budget friendly travelers deciding where to stay in Split, Croatia.
If you want to stay near the city center, without paying city center prices, and possibly having some room for parking, then Dobrić is a good choice.
Things to do in Dobrić:
- Grab a bite to eat along Riva
You may go to Riva Harbour to view various ships coming in and going out, and the promenade often becomes a little busy, though it is less busy in the morning.
You can wander along this pleasant promenade, which features a coastline with palm trees and benches spaced out every few metres. There are also many options for pubs, cafes, and restaurants.
- Visit the Golden Gate
The Golden Gate, sometimes known as “the Northern Gate,” is one of the four main Roman entrances to Split. It was constructed as a section of Diocletian’s Palace and was elaborately decorated to signify its prominence as the main entrance through which the Emperor entered the complex.
Wondering where to stay in Split near beach, Dobrić is super close to local beaches.
Best places to stay in Dobrić
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Dobrić
Budget accommodation in Dobrić
Mid range accommodation in Dobrić
- Galeria Valeria Seaside Downtown
- Aspalathos Residence
- Heritage Palace Varos
- Historic Plaza Varos Split
Family Friendly accommodation in Dobrić
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Dobrić
Meje – Where to stay in Split for great views
If you prefer to stay in a more upscale residential area, then Meje is the place for you.
Why stay in Meje:
This district extends from the sea up Marjan Hill. Leafy streets are lined with large homes, luxury apartments and Meje also has a waterfront promenade.
With three beaches and several parks, this is a great choice of where to stay in Split with family. The neighborhood crawls up a hill, though, so carefully choose your accommodation, and bring good walking shoes if you want to explore the neighborhood.
Things to do in Meje:
There are fewer tourist attractions here, but everything is still within 20 minutes walking distance of Old Town.
- Climb the Marjan Hill to the Split Viewpoint
On Split’s peninsula is a hill called Marjan. It is totally encircled by the city and the sea and is covered with a Mediterranean pine forest. There are steps leading up to this park to the west of the old city, above where the winding mediaeval lanes come to an end.
The fifteen minute stroll is worthwhile. Fantastic views of Split and nearby islands are provided by these views. A staircase with 314 steps leads to the summit. There a lot of steps to climb in order to reach the viewpoint, but don’t worry; they are generally easy for most people to climb.
I’d recommend heading up for sunset!
- Wander through Sustipan
A little peninsula called Sustipan can be found south-west of Split. A church and a Benedectine monastery existed in the Middle Ages.
At Sustipan, one of Croatia’s most stunning cemeteries was constructed in the 19th century. Authorities removed the cemetery in the 20th century.
Best places to stay in Meje
Budget accommodation in Meje
Mid range accommodation in Meje
Family Friendly accommodation in Meje
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Meje
Veli Varos – Where to stay in Split for tourists
Wondering wheres best to stay around Split? Personally Veli Varos is my favourite areas. Just west of Old Town and the palace, Veli Varos is one of the oldest neighborhoods of Split.
Why stay in Veli Varos
The cobblestone streets here date back to the 17th century, when fishermen and farmers started building cottages here.
Some of the hotels in Split are located in Veli Varos, along with a few Split luxury rooms tucked away down winding alleys. Parking is as challenging here as it is in Old Town, so be sure to ask ahead if you plan to bring a car.
Things to do in Veli Varos
- Visit Franciscan Monastery of St. Frances
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, this renovated Franciscan monastery offers a tranquil setting for reflection. Entry is free. Even though the church is small inside, the whitewashed walls and wooden pews give it a sense of peace that contrasts with the bustling, sweltering city outside.
- Wander down Marmontova Street
Wander down the marble-paved promenade named Marmontova Street. Here, you can buy souvenirs at a few smaller street vendors as well as shops showcasing designer and high-end brands. The Ribarnica, or local fish market, is located towards the end of the street. To see the day’s freshest fish, arrive early.
Best places to stay in Veli Varos
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Veli Varos
Budget accommodation in Veli Varos
Mid range accommodation in Veli Varos
Family Friendly accommodation in Veli Varos
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Veli Varos
Poljud – Where to stay in Split as a local
The Stadion Poljud multi-purpose arena, which dominates this neighbourhood immediately to the north of Split’s city centre, is its most well-known feature.
Why stay in Poljud
Due to the proximity to the Poljud arena, this neighbourhood is generally less touristy and is more suited for locals. There are a number of accommodation options here but not as many as there would be in Old town and the surrounding neighbourhoods.
There are numerous bars and both local and foreign eateries near Poljud and Spinut, so nightlife there is up to you. You should go in the direction of the harbour area if you want pleasantly busy.
Things to do in Poljud
- Glad a Picnic basket and head to Mladosti Park
It is bordered by the exquisitely designed Mladosti Park, where you may walk the grounds, have a picnic, or just relax and take in some sun while watching the world go by if sports aren’t your thing.
- Split Archaeological Museum
When the Dalmatian authorities in Zadar created the Split Archaeological Museum in 1820, it became the oldest museum in Croatia. Prehistoric ages, the Greek colonisation of the Adriatic, Roman provincial times, the Early Christian era through the early Middle Ages, and the period of Croatian popular rulers are all covered by some 150,000 items.
Best places to stay in Poljud
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Poljud
Budget accommodation in Poljud
Mid range accommodation in Poljud
- Diocles Place
- Exquisite Couples Delight with free bikes & parking
- Antique Garden Villa
- Studio Seven minute walk to Old town
Family Friendly accommodation in Poljud
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Poljud
Bacvice – Where to stay in Split for nightlife
Bacvice Beach is the most popular beach in Split, where locals and tourists flock in all seasons. With Old Town just 15 minute walk from Bacvice, you have the best of both worlds by staying in this residential area.
Why stay in Bacvice
Travelers who want to know where to stay in Split for nightlife should consider the area called Bacvice. In Croatia, beaches and nightlife go hand in hand, so this also happens to be the best option of where to stay in Split near the beach.
Bacvice is known for its vibrant nightlife, form delicious resturants, cool bars and “pumpin” nightclubs!
Things to do in Bacvice
For travellers planning day trips from Split, the ferry port is also conveniently located near Bacvice.
- Relax in the sun at Beach Bacvice
Sand is particularly soft on the sandy beach in Bacvice. Even 100 metres out from the coast, the water is shallow. It’s perfect for having a blast and taking part in water activities.
The beach can get quite crowded during the summer, so if you don’t like crowds, go early in the morning. Like the other beaches in Split, Bacvice has beach bars, places to eat fast food, and places to rent jet skis and sun loungers.
- Watch the latest movie at the Ljetno kino Bačvice / Open Air Cinema
One of the most stunning movie theatres on the Adriatic is the Bavice Open Air Cinema. Every visitor and enthusiast of new and old movies, while also enjoying the added benefits of the smell of pine trees, the sound of the sea, the stars, the moon, and the passing of ships in the distance.
The programme features a dynamic mix of Hollywood blockbusters, children’s movies, vintage movies, and European and international art house films. (Please note this is only available in the summer months)
Best places to stay in Bacvice
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Bacvice
Budget accommodation in Bacvice
Mid range accommodation in Bacvice
Family Friendly accommodation in Bacvice
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Bacvice
Firule, Trstenik and Znjan – Where to stay in Split for families
Going east from the beach of Bacvice are three additional beach areas.
These areas tend to be quieter neighborhoods, only 20 minutes from the city center, but if you want to know where to stay in Split near the beach, Firule, Trstenik and Znjan certainly have many options for you.
Why stay in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
First, Firule Beach, then Trstenik and finally Znjan Beach. All 3 of these beaches are within 3.5km of each other.
Firule beach is popular with families as it’s very shallow and calm, without the crowds of more popular beaches nearby.
Trstenik is a hidden gem of a beach near the Radisson Blu Split, with very nice beach facilities.
Znjan is also a popular beach and one of the larger beaches in Split.
Things to do in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
There isn’t a lot to do in these areas expect lounge around on a number of beaches, these neighborhoods are more suitable for people who want to relax.
It’s great for families, as you wont be far from the main sites but you can easily unwind with the family in a quieter neighborhood and build sand castles on the beach in peace.
Best places to stay in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Budget Hotels in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Mid range Hotels in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Family Friendly Hotels in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Affordable Luxury Hotels in Firule, Trstenik and Znjan
Stobreč – Where to stay near Split for weekend getaways
Croatia’s Stobrec is a charming town close to Split. Although once being a tiny fishing community, tourism is now booming.
Why stay in Stobreč:
Due to its close proximity to Split, Stobrec attracts tourists from all over the world who are looking for the perfect combination of sightseeing, sun, beach, and sea.
In addition, a small centre and a charming promenade are located right in the town, where inviting family run restaurants and cafés entice visitors to stay longer.
Things to do in Stobreč:
Similarly to Firule, Trstenik and Znjan neigbourhoods, Stobrec is a small fishing villa and as such there is a lot a lot to do in this area but relax by the beach and eat til your hear is content.
Best places to stay in Stobreč
Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Stobreč
Budget accommodation in Stobreč
Mid range accommodation in Stobreč
Family Friendly accommodation in Stobreč
Affordable Luxury accommodation in Stobreč
- Luxury villa with a swimming pool Stobrec, Split
- Stunning home in Stobrec with WiFi, Outdoor swimming pool and Heated swimming pool
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