Explore Split & Diocletian's Palace, Split

4.8 (12 reviews)

Overview

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and home to the dazzling Diocletian’s palace, a 4th-century haven for the Roman emperor Diocletian. Although the palace has changed its appearance over the centuries, with its surroundings eventually becoming a medieval city and, today, a modern metropolis, it's still one of the best-preserved sites in Europe. Many visitors imagine a typical palace standing alone, but as you explore inside the old walls, you'll quickly learn that the entire Old Town of Split fits into the palace itself!

Although erected in the 4th century, it wasn't until 1979 that the palace received UNESCO status, joining 11 other UNESCO Heritage Sites in Croatia. The picturesque center is perfect for sightseeing and long walks among its marbled streets and historical monuments. Enjoy stopping to admire the beautiful architecture from Roman to modern times. 

Some not-to-be-missed sites within the palace include the Old Town Hall on People's Square, Golden Gate, Iron Gate, Jupiter's Temple, and Saint Domnius Belltower. We also suggest visiting the old cellars and substructures, as they're well-preserved and still boast their original size. 

You can easily enjoy this tour on your own or with the help of a guide. If you like walking, continue down the Riva and up the local Marjan Hill Park for beautiful vistas over Diocletian's Palace, the city of Split, and the Adriatic sea. You'll also find a few historical sites in the park, plus quiet swimming coves and beaches.

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Traveler reviews

12 total ratings, 6 with reviews
4.8
Feature ratings
Quality of Experience
4.8
Guides, Drivers and Staff
4.9
Transport
4.8
Andre
Andre G.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jun 27, 2024
Tips for future travelers

Can be very busy at night. Visit the Old Town early in the morning to beat cruise crowds.

Thomas
Thomas B.
Canada | Reviewed on Oct 28, 2023
Our guide Ivana gave us a very detailed tour of the palace. I didn’t realize that the Roman Emperor Diocletian had his head quarters at this palace in Split and not in
Rome.
Read more

Our guide Ivana gave us a very detailed tour of the palace. I didn’t realize that the Roman Emperor Diocletian had his head quarters at this palace in Split and not in
Rome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was very easy going.
K
Kate R.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Sep 19, 2023
We had a great tour of the palace with an amazing tour guide. We learned so much about the city and the palace. Read more

We had a great tour of the palace with an amazing tour guide. We learned so much about the city and the palace.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
S
Sarah M.
Orchards, WA | Reviewed on Sep 13, 2023
Great tour guide. He had really good info and was also part of city council so he answered all our other questions about tourist impact on the city Read more

Great tour guide. He had really good info and was also part of city council so he answered all our other questions about tourist impact on the city

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Angela
Angela L.
Rockville Centre, NY | Reviewed on Jun 12, 2023
I'm glad that we did the tour. Learned a lot Read more

I'm glad that we did the tour. Learned a lot

Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dwight
Dwight W.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 07, 2022
Location of accommodation was perfect. Read more

Location of accommodation was perfect.

Tips for future travelers

Make sure you get accommodation in old town if you can. And inside the palace if possible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport

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Itineraries with Explore Split & Diocletian's Palace