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Dreaming of a coastal getaway in Split but not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place!
Split has something for everyone, whether you want to wander through ancient Roman ruins, lounge on the beach, or sip drinks by the sea. But we’ve found out firsthand that choosing the right area can make or break your trip, especially during the busy summer months when the city is buzzing.
That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide to the five best areas to stay in Split and included our favorite hotels for every budget. From the historic charm of Old Town to the beachy vibes of Bacvice and the peaceful hills of Meje, there’s a perfect spot for you. Let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay in Split is Old Town. With its buzzing squares, hidden wine bars, and ancient alleys, it’s the city’s heart.
We loved our stay at Jupiter Luxury Hotel. It sits inside Diocletian’s Palace—mixing stone walls, sleek rooms, and a rooftop hot tub!
Where To Stay in Split Map
Overview of the Best Areas To Stay in Split
Split can be very touristy during peak season, so I really can’t stress enough how important it is to book your accommodation in advance! The city is pretty compact, so it’s easy to get from one neighborhood to another, but each one has its own distinct feel.
What we’ve always done in Split is pick the area with the vibe we want, and then travel to other areas on foot, on the bus, or using taxis or rideshares. Getting around Split is easy and pretty inexpensive, so this approach has always worked well.
- Old Town – We think this is the best spot for first-time visitors who want to be close to Split’s top historic sights, buzzing squares, and excellent restaurants. Jupiter Luxury Hotel is a fantastic and affordable pick in the heart of it all!
- Bacvice – This beachfront neighborhood is perfect if you want to combine sunbathing with nightlife, as it’s home to Split’s most popular beach and plenty of bars and clubs. Apartments Antica is a comfortable and well-located mid-range stay.
- Veli Varos – A quiet, romantic neighborhood with charming stone houses and narrow streets, ideal for couples or anyone after a slower pace near Old Town. Aspalathos Residence offers stylish mid-range comfort in a peaceful setting.
- Znjan – A family-friendly area with laid-back beaches, wide promenades, and modern resorts, so it’s great for travelers who want space to relax but easy access to the center. Palace Lidija is a solid mid-range option with great amenities.
- Meje – This leafy, residential area is nestled between Marjan Hill and the Adriatic, making it ideal for nature lovers and hikers seeking a tranquil escape. Apartments Vinko is a great mid-range choice surrounded by greenery.
Important Tip
Multiple Split trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Split accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Split
Old Town
The Old Town is the beating heart of Split, so it’s the perfect place to stay if it’s your first time visiting the city! What makes the Old Town special is that it’s centered around the ancient Diocletian’s Palace. Inside the palace walls, you’ll find a maze of cobblestone streets where you can hop between cute cafés and boutiques.
Some of our favorite attractions here include the Peristyle square, the palace’s underground cellars (which were featured in Game of Thrones, don’t you know!), the Split City Museum, and Saint Domnius Cathedral. We love climbing up the bell tower to get panoramic views over the city and the Adriatic Sea!
Meanwhile, we always enjoy taking time to people-watch from the lively bars and restaurants of People’s Square. And don’t miss a stroll along the Riva promenade with its palm trees and harbor views.
It’s also incredibly walkable—you can reach beaches, ferry terminals, and train stations in just minutes, which makes it super convenient for sightseeing or day trips.
All in all, Old Town is ideal for history lovers, foodies, and those who want to be in the middle of it all. From budget stays to five-star hotels, there’s a wide range of accommodations, making it easy to find something that fits your style and budget.
Pros
- Filled with historic attractions, bars, and restaurants
- Lots of accommodation options
Cons
- Very crowded during peak tourist season
- One of the more expensive areas to stay in due to its prime location
Luxury – $$$
Murum Heritage Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel tucked right inside the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, which makes it one of the most unique places to stay in Split! You’ll be just steps away from major landmarks like the Split City Museum, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and Gregory of Nin, so the location truly couldn’t be better.
The rooms are modern and elegant, blending historic stone walls with luxe touches like flat-screen TVs, plush seating areas, and sleek bathrooms. And as if all of that weren’t enough, breakfast is included, and you can even have it delivered right to your room! Standard double rooms here generally range from €400 to €550 per night during peak season.
Check availability and book this stylish boutique here!
Mid-range – $$
Jupiter Luxury Hotel is a chic and contemporary hotel set inside the ancient walls of Diocletian’s Palace, right next to the Temple of Jupiter. You couldn’t ask for a more central location, with Split’s top sights, shops, galleries, and restaurants just steps away. Plus, Bačvice Beach is an easy walk if you’re craving some sun and sea!
The rooms here are stylish and cozy, and some of them even have views over the Old Town’s iconic stone streets. We also love the hotel’s rooftop terrace, which features a bar and outdoor hot tub with fantastic sea views. Rates for a standard double room typically range from €175 to €325 per night in peak season.
Check availability and book your stay at Jupiter Luxury Hotel here!
Mid-range – $$
Hotel Kastel 1700 is another great mid-range stay nestled right in the heart of Split’s historic Old Town, just steps from Diocletian’s Palace and the scenic Riva promenade. This cozy hotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with modern touches like free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and minibars.
Some rooms even feature stunning views of the sea or the charming medieval square below. Guests can enjoy a daily breakfast, and there’s easy access to the ferry port, bus, and train stations—perfect for exploring nearby islands or other Croatian gems.
With its unbeatable location and friendly service, Hotel Kastel 1700 is a great base for travelers who want to stay central without overspending. Rates typically range from €150 to €350 per night during peak season, offering excellent value in one of Split’s most sought-after spots.
Check availability and book your stay at Hotel Kastel 1700 here!
Related Read: Need some activities to fill your Split itinerary? Check out our 8 best things to do in Split here!
Bacvice
Bacvice is Split’s go-to neighborhood for sun, sea, and a lively social scene. Just a short walk from the main bus station and the Old Town, it’s a favorite among beach lovers and partygoers. This buzzing area really comes alive in the summer, attracting both locals and tourists to its iconic beach and vibrant nightlife!
The promenade is packed with open-air cafés and music drifting from beach bars, giving the whole area an infectious, holiday vibe. And Bacvice Beach itself is the crown jewel of the neighborhood. It’s a small bay lined with soft white sand and smooth concrete sunbathing platforms.
We just love spending time here and swimming in its calm, shallow waters. In the afternoons, you’ll often see locals playing a round of picigin, a traditional ball game played in the water—it’s fun to watch and even more fun to try.
By night, Bacvice is our favorite area for a night out in Split, thanks to its host of beach bars and clubs. All in all, this area is a great choice for those looking to balance beach relaxation with lively evenings. Just keep in mind that accommodations are limited in this popular area, so you’ll need to get organized and book early!
Pros
- Home to Split’s most famous and beautiful beach
- Excellent nightlife with bars, clubs, and restaurants right by the sea
Cons
- Crowded during the summer months
- Limited accommodation options
Luxury – $$$
Briig Boutique Hotel is a sleek and stylish retreat just steps from Bacvice Beach. It’s absolutely perfect if you want a beach getaway that still gives you easy access to Split’s historic center. The iconic Diocletian’s Palace is only a 10-minute walk away, making it a great choice for travelers who want to explore by day and relax in style by night.
The design here is ultra-modern and minimalist, with chic rooms that include flat-screen TVs, coffee machines, safes, and luxe bathrooms. We also love the rooftop pool and the sumptuous on-site spa where you can unwind in the hot tub or treat yourself to a massage.
There’s even a lovely terrace restaurant where you can enjoy meals al fresco! Rooms typically range from €425 to €535 per night during peak season.
See room rates and secure your stay at briig boutique hotel here!
Mid-range – $$
Apartments Antica is a fantastic and reasonably priced stay in the heart of Split, just a short 5-minute walk from the popular Bacvice Beach and less than 10 minutes from the historic Diocletian’s Palace. It’s a real winner in terms of location, because you can easily enjoy both the city’s cultural treasures and its lively beach scene from here.
The three-star apartments are comfortable and well-equipped, featuring air conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi. There’s also a children’s playground, and bike rental is available on site if you’d like to explore on two wheels. Apartments typically range from €250 to €300 per night during peak season.
Snag you stay at Apartments Antica here before it books out!
Budget – $
Apinelo Port Rooms is perfectly positioned in central Split, just a 6-minute stroll from Bacvice Beach and less than 15 minutes on foot from Diocletian’s Palace. This makes it an excellent choice for travelers wanting to balance beach time with cultural exploration!
The rooms are bright and comfortable with balconies that offer lovely city views. You really get a lot of bang for your buck here! You can even arrange an airport shuttle for an extra fee, and the friendly reception team is always on hand to help. Room rates generally range from €125 to €210 per night during peak season.
Check availability and book this budget Split stay here!
Veli Varos
Tucked at the base of Marjan Hill, Veli Varos is one of Split’s most atmospheric and historic neighborhoods. We enjoy spending time in this area because it offers a peaceful and authentic experience away from the tourist crowds.
The area was originally settled in the 1600s by fishermen and farmers, and it’s a maze of narrow cobbled streets, stone cottages, and beautifully preserved medieval churches.
Veli Varos is very pedestrian-friendly, and wandering through its winding alleys feels like a step back in time. And make no mistake: just because it’s a more authentic, local area doesn’t mean that there’s nothing to do! We love exploring the local bars and restaurants here, and there are some cool historical sites on offer, such as the Church of St. Nicholas and the Franciscan Monastery.
This area is also perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, as you can enjoy fantastic hiking and biking trails at the nearby Marjan Hill. You can even head up all the way to Telegrin for sweeping vistas of the Adriatic and surrounding islands!
We think that Veli Varos is perfect for couples planning a romantic getaway, or anyone who enjoys seeing the more local side of a destination. This area delivers charm, culture, and serenity all in one go!
Pros
- Peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists than the Old Town
- Close to Marjan Hill for hiking, cycling, and scenic views
Cons
- Fewer hotels around
- The hilly terrain and narrow streets may be challenging for those with mobility issues
Luxury – $$$
Camera Hotel is a stylish and centrally located stay in Split, just a short walk from Diocletian’s Palace and the charming Old Town streets. Its convenient location makes it easy to explore the city’s top sights, while Bacvice Beach and Marjan Hill are also within walking distance if you want to mix in some sun or nature.
The rooms here are sleek and modern, but the stone walls still add a touch of old-school Croatian charm. I love the fact that breakfast is included, and the generous cancellation policy allows you to stay flexible. Superior king rooms here cost between €275 and €475 per night in peak season, but they sell out fast.
See room types and secure your stay at Camera Hotel here!
Mid-range – $$
Aspalathos Residence is a charming 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of Split, just a five-minute stroll from the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. Its prime location places you steps from Republic Square and the lively Riva promenade, making it perfect for travelers who want to be close to all the action while still enjoying a peaceful retreat.
The rooms are sleek, modern, and airy, with views of either Marjan Hill or the city streets. Each features air-conditioning, comfy seating areas, and satellite flat-screen TVs. Plus, an amazing breakfast is served each morning with both cooked and continental options. Rooms here typically range from €250 to €350 per night, depending on the season.
Check availability and book your stay here!
Budget – $
Tiny Dream – Old Town Rooms Split is a cozy and well-equipped property tucked away in a peaceful corner of Veli Varos. It’s just under 15 minutes from Diocletian’s Palace and within walking distance of Bacvice Beach, so it’s a great choice for travelers who want both sightseeing and seaside relaxation at their fingertips.
There’s also a fireplace for the cooler months and a barbecue. There are laundry facilities too, and the rooms are soundproofed so that you can get a peaceful night’s rest. Rates typically range from €125 to €165 per night.
Book your stay here before this property sells out!
Related Read: To make the most of your time in Split, have a look at our epic 3-day itinerary!
Znjan
Located on the southeastern edge of Split, Znjan is home to the city’s largest pebbly beach and has quickly become one of its most exciting up-and-coming areas. It was once lined with makeshift structures, but now it has undergone a major transformation, so it offers clean, modern beach facilities and a stylish promenade that’s perfect for sunny strolls.
You’ll find everything from beach cafés with sea views to rental shops for paddleboards and jet skis, making it easy to spend a full day by the water. We think that this district is ideal for families, beach lovers, and active travelers. The playgrounds, amusement center, and volleyball courts are perfect for keeping the kids busy.
Another great thing about staying in Znjan is that during the summer, lots of music festivals and cultural events take place in its large seafront park. And in the evening, the laidback beachside bars and restaurants exude a lively yet relaxed vibe, so it’s perfect for travelers of all ages to kick back with some yummy food and drink.
Finally, a great perk of staying in Znjan is that there’s a range of accommodation options here, and prices tend to be lower than in many other areas of Split. It’s a great base for a fun and affordable stay!
Pros
- Family-friendly
- Beautiful beach
- Affordable area
Cons
- Farther from the Old Town
- Less historic charm than other areas
Luxury – $$$
Amphora Hotel is a stylish 4-star beachfront property located close to Znjan Beach and Duilovo Dog Beach. It features three swimming pools, a pool bar, and sun loungers with umbrellas for the perfect relaxing day under the sun. So if you’re seeking some fun in the sun, I’d say that this place has you covered!
The rooms here are modern and elegantly decorated, and many of them offer beautiful sea views. There’s also bike and car hire for exploring the surrounding area, as well as a 24-hour front desk, entertainment, and free breakfast each morning! Double rooms here typically cost €250 per night or €410 if you’d like a sea view.
Check prices and availability for this stylish Split stay at Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Palace Lidija is a charming aparthotel which offers comfortable self-catered apartments, whether you want to relax on the sun terrace or book a suite with a private pool so that you can enjoy a dip whenever you want. Some units also include a balcony with stunning sea views!
This property is a 20-minute walk from the Mall of Split, so it’s great for those who love to shop, while it’s a 15-minute taxi ride to Diocletian’s Palace. Each apartment sleeps up to four people, so it’s a great option for friends on a group trip. Apartments here cost between €120 and €325 per night.
Browse room options and book your stay at Palace Lidija here!
Budget – $
Apartment Luka offers a comfortable three-star stay in Split, which is ideal for those who want convenience and modern amenities. Units are simple but clean and well-equipped with air-conditioning, a washing machine, and a private terrace or patio, depending on which floor you’re on.
The apartments are also within walking distance of Duilovo Dog Beach, while the Old Town is just a short taxi or bus ride away. If you want an affordable, no-frills base for exploring Split, then this is an excellent choice. Double rooms cost between €70 and €150 per night.
See room options and reserve your stay at Apartment Luka here!
Meje
Meje is a peaceful and picturesque neighborhood located just a short walk from Split’s bustling Old Town. This area is a real gem!
Historically, Meje was a residential area for Split’s middle class and artists, and it has retained much of its traditional charm while slowly developing boutique accommodations. It’s nestled along the coastline beneath Marjan Hill, so it offers a quieter alternative for visitors seeking relaxation without sacrificing easy access to the city’s main attractions.
We think this area is perfect for couples, families, and anyone who prefers a tranquil atmosphere!
This area is known for its charming seaside promenade and pebble beaches. They may not be the comfiest to lie on, but you can step right into the clear Adriatic waters and enjoy a swim! Meanwhile, you’ll be able to enjoy a jog or cycle around Marjan Park, which just so happens to offer panoramic views of the Dalmatian islands.
So when you stay in Meje, you get all of this serenity while being just a 20-minute walk from the lively Riva promenade and a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. But if you don’t feel like leaving the area, there is a sprinkling of cozy cafes, small shops, and restaurants around here. Basically, it’s got a friendly neighborhood vibe!
Pros
- Peaceful and scenic area that’s close to nature
- Close to Marjan Hill
- Easy access to Split’s Old Town
Cons
- Limited nightlife and dining options
- Mostly pebble beaches
Luxury – $$$
Hotel Cvita offers classical style four-star accommodation and top-notch facilities, like an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a relaxing spa and wellness center. The rooms include balconies, gorgeous sea views, and flat-screen TVs for when you want to kick back.
Tucked into a quiet corner near Marjan Hill, the hotel feels like a peaceful escape from the city buzz—yet it’s still just a short drive or walk from Split’s Old Town and beaches. Whether you’re soaking in the views or relaxing poolside, everything here feels calm and rejuvenating.
Breakfast is included, and you also get free airport pickup—how convenient is that? The staff here are super helpful and can help you book activities and plan an ideal itinerary. Rooms here cost between €325 and €400 during peak season.
Check availability and book your stay at Hotel Cvita here!
Mid-range – $$
Apartments Vinko is a comfortable place to stay right near Marjan Hill, just a short walk from the coastline promenade. Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen and dining area, and the rooftop terrace offers gorgeous views of Diocletian’s Palace, the yacht marina, and nearby islands. I could stay up there all day!
But if you do manage to tear yourself away from the epic views, the beach is just a 5-minute walk away, while popular spots like Marmontova shopping street, the Riva Promenade, and the UNESCO-listed Palace are within easy reach.
Even Bačvice Beach is just a 20-minute walk away. One-bedroom apartments cost between €170 and €410 during the busy summer months.
Check availability and reserve this mid-range stay at Booking.com!
Budget – $
Guest house Ivona is a simple guest house offering a budget-friendly stay just a 7-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace and less than a 20-minute walk from Bacvice Beach. Despite being close to these tourist hotspots, its location in the quiet streets of Meje means that you’ll still enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep.
Plus, you’ll be just minutes from local bakeries, markets, and waterfront walking paths—perfect for morning strolls or grabbing a quick bite before sightseeing. There are also family rooms and ground-floor units available, so whatever your needs, this place has you covered! Studio rooms here cost between €125 and €175, while full apartments are available too.
Get more details and book your budget stay here!
Other Activities to do While in Split, Croatia
Now that your accommodation is booked, it’s time to dive into the best of Split, and there’s a lot more to explore than just Diocletian’s Palace. From chasing waterfalls and zipping through canyons to discovering secret coves and local wines, we found plenty of experiences that showed us a different side of the city. These tours were the ones that truly stuck with us!
- Island-hop to the Blue Cave and Hvar – Skimming across the Adriatic in a speedboat, we stopped at five stunning islands, including the otherworldly Blue Cave and sun-drenched Hvar. This island-hopping tour was a perfect blend of swimming, sightseeing, and laid-back vibes. From tiny fishing villages to turquoise bays, every stop felt like a scene from a postcard.
- Swim at Krka, then sip wine in the countryside – Cooling off beneath Krka’s waterfalls was refreshing, but the real surprise came after: a visit to a local winery with generous pours, olive oil tastings, and fresh-baked bread. This nature-meets-food-tasting experience gave us a sweet slice of the Dalmatian countryside—and plenty of stories to take home.
- Explore Split with a historian – Led by a guide with serious credentials (a magister of history!), we wandered through Diocletian’s Palace and finally understood the layers of the city’s past. This walking tour brought ancient Split to life, mixing Roman drama, medieval intrigue, and modern culture in one fascinating afternoon.
- Fly above Cetina Canyon on a zipline – Adrenaline kicked in the moment we stepped onto the first platform. Stretching high above the Cetina River, this thrilling zipline course gave us epic views and even better stories. With seven ziplines to conquer and expert guides by our side, this was a pulse-raising way to see Croatia’s wild side.
- Take a scenic day trip to Plitvice Lakes – Turquoise pools, cascading waterfalls, and wooden boardwalks surrounded us for hours on this peaceful escape to Plitvice Lakes. This guided tour made everything easy—from transport to park entry—so we could focus on soaking in the views and snapping way too many photos.
Renting a Car in Europe
Exploring Europe by car is a fantastic way to uncover hidden gems—think charming villages, scenic countryside, and off-the-beaten-path spots that trains and buses might miss. Driving here is generally straightforward, but it’s good to be prepared for some regional quirks.
We always use Discover Cars to book our rentals and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find automatic cars (which can be tricky in Europe!), and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in Europe
- Know the local rules: Most countries drive on the right, except the UK, Ireland, Cyprus, and Malta. Road signs and driving laws can vary, so do a quick check before you go.
- Practice defensive driving: In parts of Europe, especially in the south, driving can feel fast-paced and a little unpredictable. Make sure you stay alert and keep a safe following distance.
- Insurance is essential: I highly recommend adding full coverage insurance to your rental. Whether it’s a parking lot ding or a chipped windshield on a mountain road, full protection gives you peace of mind. Plus, it’s super affordable through Discover Cars!
- Pick the right vehicle: Most rentals in Europe are manual, and automatic cars are limited, so book early if that’s what you need. A compact car is also ideal for narrow roads and tight parking. On Discover Cars, you can easily filter for everything you need.
- Watch for restricted zones: Many cities have low-emission or restricted traffic zones. Driving into these without a permit can result in fines, so always check local rules if you’re heading into a city center.
- Be prepared for border crossings: While crossing borders is usually easy within the Schengen Zone, some rental companies require you to declare your travel plans in advance. Always check with Discover Cars if you’re planning to drive into another country.
What You Need to Rent a Car in Europe
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- If you’re from outside the EU, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended—and in some countries, it’s legally required.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically needed for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. If you’re under 25, expect a young driver surcharge—and in some countries, the minimum age may be higher.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring Europe on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
After a day of island-hopping, museum visits, or soaking up the sun along Split’s beaches, there’s nothing better than coming back to the right hotel in the right neighborhood. Whether you’re craving history, nightlife, nature, or a quiet escape, Split has a spot that fits your travel style.
We hope this guide helps you plan a stay that’s just as unforgettable as ours! Still piecing together your trip? Be sure to check out our other Europe blogs for more destination tips, hotel recs, and unique things to do, and don’t miss some of our personal favorites listed below.
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