Happy Birthday America! 🇺🇸
Fun fact: for whatever reason it has almost always worked out that I have traveled on the Fourth Of July.
Another fun fact is that I have spent almost every summer of my life in Croatia, and in particular, Split. Croatia has long been one of Europe’s most enchanting—and underrated—summer destinations, but to me has been a second home to me in so many ways. I am so grateful for all the years and experiences I have had here. With that said I think I have come to know the city pretty well. For this first post consider it an intro guide and the basics of Split, Croatia.
Split is the ultimate launchpad for a Croatian summer: historic yet trendy, laid-back by day and electric by night. Whether you’re exploring Roman ruins, diving into the Adriatic, or partying under the stars, it’s a city that effortlessly adapts to your mood. And for those of you in your party era, now in the heart of summer, when Ultra Europe and The Yacht Week take over, it transforms into something even more unforgettable.
Now to the part that everyone tends to gravitate on their European summer travels: the beaches.
Beach Days in Split
Need a reset after all that revelry? Split’s coastline offers the perfect places to recharge—whether you’re into chilled-out sunbathing or beach bar hopping.
- Ĺ˝njan Beach – Wide, pebbled, and laid-back, Ĺ˝njan is a local favorite with food kiosks and lounge chairs. It’s the kind of beach you can hang at all day without needing much more than a good playlist and a cold drink. Technically part of Znjan is Mistral Beach Club, which is a part of Raddison Blu Hotel is one of my favorite beach clubs in the area. Beach lounge chairs are complimentary for guests but if you want to be part of the action on the deck, everyone is expected to pay. It is not the cheapest, but for a luxurious and fun ambiance it is worth it.
- Kašuni Beach – Chic and tucked into nature at the base of Marjan Hill, Kašuni is known for its calm vibes and upscale beach bar scene. Surrounded by the stunning forrest it is so picturesque and ideal for a more elevated, adult version of your beach day. Joes Beach Bar definitely gives beach party on many days of the week.
- Obojena Svjetlost – A hidden gem with a boho vibe. The turquoise water here is next-level, and it’s typically less crowded than the city’s more central beaches.
- Sustipan – While not technically a beach, this cliffside park overlooking the Adriatic is one of the dreamiest spots in Split. If you prefer to swim in peace or just take a dip while on a walk, this is your spot. Come for golden hour with a bottle of wine and watch the yachts sail by—trust, it’s a main character moment.
- Bacvice Beach
Just a short walk from the Old Town, Bacvice is Split’s most popular beach. Famous for its soft sand and shallow waters, it’s also the birthplace of picigin, a traditional ball game played in the sea. While the most famous, it is also the more touristy and most crowded, dirty. It wouldn’t be my first recommendation for swimming but it is lively, and there are lots of bars and restaurants right on the water with less traditional options for those picky eaters in your family.
Where to Stay in Split
Whether you’re in town for the party or looking for luxury with a view, Split offers a range of stylish stays to suit your summer vibe.
- Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – With panoramic sea views, direct beach access, and a luxe pool scene, Radisson Blu is ideal for travelers who want to unwind in style while still being close to the city action. The spa, rooftop lounge, and proximity to Žnjan Beach make it a favorite for a chic, resort-style experience.
- Hotel Cornaro – Located just steps from Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva promenade, Hotel Cornaro blends modern luxury with old-town charm. It’s perfect if you want to be in the heart of everything—Ultra events, dining, nightlife—while enjoying elevated comfort and an epic rooftop bar with sunset views.
Beyond the Beaches and Beats
Split isn’t just about the party. The city’s soul lies in its layers of history and lived-in beauty. Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, isn’t a museum—it’s an active part of daily life, filled with wine bars, boutiques, and intimate restaurants tucked inside ancient stone walls. This 4th-century was actually an ancient Roman emperor’s retirement palace turned to a lively city core.
Wander the maze-like alleys, take your espresso at a café on the Peristyle, or climb the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for panoramic city views.
Often compared to Venice’s St. Mark’s Square, Prokurative is one of Split’s most photogenic spots. Framed by neoclassical buildings and open to the sea, this elegant square hosts cultural events, music festivals, and a lively cafe scene. It’s the perfect blend of grandeur and Mediterranean ease.
For Nature Lovers Too
🌿 Marjan Hill
This pine-covered hill is ideal for hikes, bike rides, or simply catching the best views of the city and sea. Explore stone chapels, hidden coves, and panoramic lookouts. For postcard-worthy panoramas, hike up Marjan, the forested hill on the city’s edge. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient chapels and hidden beaches that feel a world away.
On a bit more timely thing to do in Split, would be Ultra Europe which comes in hot every year at the start of July and transitioning into the Yacht Week. Since it is approaching rather quickly I already covered it in a bit more detail in my last post when introducing summer travels to Croatia, but here are the basics.
The Festival Vibe: Ultra Europe
Every July, Ultra Europe turns Split into a global music destination, drawing thousands of electronic music fans to Park MladeĹľi Stadium. With world-famous DJs, stunning light shows, and an international crowd dressed for the heat, the energy is unmatched.
Even if you’re not hardcore into EDM, the surrounding festivities—from pre-games on the Riva promenade to late-night afterparties—create a magnetic, can’t-miss atmosphere that pulses through the city.
The Yacht Week Magic
For those looking to level up their summer experience, The Yacht Week is the ultimate floating festival. Departing from Split, it’s a weeklong sail through Croatia’s Dalmatian islands with daily swim stops, beach bars, regattas, and legendary themed parties—all from the deck of your own yacht. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure of freedom, friendship, and crystal-clear coves.
Many travelers pair their Ultra Europe weekend with a Yacht Week itinerary, making Split the perfect crossover between land and sea adventures.
Final Thoughts
Split isn’t just a stop—it’s a summer state of mind. Split is a perfect base for day trips to nearby islands like Hvar, Brac, Vis, and Solta. Take a ferry or book a speedboat tour to discover secluded beaches, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and charming seaside. This city gives you the space to do it all—or nothing at all. I encourage you to roam around and get lost. It’s high energy and slow living wrapped into one destination.
