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Split-Dalmatia County

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Split-Dalmatia County

Split-Dalmatia County is the largest county in Croatia by area and one of the most visited regions in the Mediterranean. Located along the stunning Dalmatian Coast of the Adriatic Sea, it encompasses the historic city of Split with its UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, the charming medieval town of Trogir (also UNESCO-listed), the glamorous island of Hvar, the famous Zlatni Rat beach on Brač island, and the scenic Makarska Riviera. The county stretches from the Cetina River canyon in the north to the Neretva delta in the south, bordering Bosnia and Herzegovina to the east. With over 1,700 km of coastline and more than 300 islands, islets and reefs, Split-Dalmatia offers world-class beaches, crystal-clear Adriatic waters, Roman ruins, medieval architecture, outstanding seafood cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and exceptional natural landscapes including the Biokovo mountain range.

Capital
Split
Currency
Euro
Language
Croatian
Time zone
Europe/Zagreb
Best time
Year-round
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About Split-Dalmatia County

Capital
Split
Population
455242
Languages
Croatian
Currency
Euro
Time zone
Europe/Zagreb

Explore Split-Dalmatia County by topic

Jump straight to the experience you're planning.

Best places to visit in Split-Dalmatia County

The 0 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.

Recommended itineraries

Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.

5-Day Split-Dalmatia County Explorer

  • Day 1Arrive in Split-Dalmatia County, explore city center
  • Day 2Visit top attractions and museums
  • Day 3Day trip to nearby highlights
  • Day 4Local markets and hidden gems
  • Day 5Final sightseeing, departure

7-Day Classic Split-Dalmatia County

  • Days 1-2Split-Dalmatia County city highlights
  • Days 3-4Regional exploration
  • Days 5-6Cultural immersion and local experiences
  • Day 7Return and departure

14-Day Ultimate Split-Dalmatia County

  • Days 1-3Split-Dalmatia County comprehensive city tour
  • Days 4-6Northern region exploration
  • Days 7-9Eastern highlights
  • Days 10-12Southern attractions
  • Days 13-14Return to Split-Dalmatia County, departure

Where to stay in Split-Dalmatia County

Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.

Budget $50-100

Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.

Mid-range $100-200

Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.

Luxury $300+

World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.

Hotel Vestibul Palace

Split · Contact for pricing

Unique boutique hotel set within the original vestibule of Diocletian's Palace. Stone walls and vaulted ceilings blend with contemporary luxury design. Exceptional location in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Check rates on vestibulpalace.com

Radisson Blu Resort Split

Split · Contact for pricing

Modern beachfront luxury resort with a private beach, several pools, and full-service spa. Located 3km east of the old town with stunning sea views. One of Split's largest and most complete resort properties.

Check rates on radissonhotels.com

Bol Hotel

Brač Island · Contact for pricing

Premium hotel in Bol on Brač island, just 500m from the famous Zlatni Rat beach. Outdoor pool, sea views, elegant rooms, and excellent restaurant serving Dalmatian cuisine.

Check rates on brac.hr

Hotel Ambasador Split

Split · Contact for pricing

Brand new five-star hotel adjacent to Bačvice beach and a short walk from Diocletian's Palace. Exceptional waterfront location, rooftop pool with panoramic views, modern design meeting Dalmatian heritage.

Check rates on ambasadorsplit.com

Where to eat in Split-Dalmatia County

Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.

Restaurant Fife

Dalmatian / Seafood · €

A Split institution for over 40 years, Fife is a no-frills konoba beloved by locals and in the know visitors alike. Huge portions of traditional Dalmatian food at honest prices. The seafood pasta, grilled fish, and lamb stew are legendary. Queue outside is normal.

Konoba Kod Joze

Dalmatian / Traditional Croatian · €€

Authentic konoba just outside the palace walls serving traditional Dalmatian cooking at its finest. Stone walls, wooden tables, and family recipes passed down for generations. Famous for their pašticada (slow-braised beef in wine sauce) and fresh fish.

Restaurant Šug

Modern Dalmatian · €€€

Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded restaurant serving innovative modern Dalmatian cuisine in an elegant setting. Young chef creates creative interpretations of traditional recipes using seasonal local ingredients. One of Split's most celebrated dining destinations.

Konoba Matejuška

Seafood / Croatian · €€

Tiny konoba tucked into the old Matejuška fishing port area, serving ultra-fresh seafood in a rustic authentic setting. The fish is so fresh it practically swam in that morning. Limited seating means it fills quickly.

Restaurant Adriatic Graso

Mediterranean / Slow Food · €€€

Elegant restaurant with a sea-view harbor terrace championing the slow food philosophy with locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Dedicated to responsible seafood and organic produce from the Dalmatian hinterland. Beautiful setting for a special meal.

Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar

Modern Croatian / Wine Bar · €€

Trendy wine bar and modern restaurant in Split's old town. Excellent selection of Croatian wines paired with creative small plates and charcuterie boards featuring local produce. Popular with a younger, sophisticated crowd.

Getting around Split-Dalmatia County

Split-Dalmatia has good transport connections with the rest of Croatia and Europe. Split Airport serves as the main air gateway, while the city's ferry port is the busiest in Croatia for island connections. The extensive ferry and catamaran network serves all major islands. Road connections are excellent on the mainland via the A1 motorway, while the islands are served by local roads.

Budget breakdown

Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.

Category Budget Mid-range Luxury
Accommodation $15-40 $50-120 $150+
Food (per day) $10-25 $30-60 $80+
Transportation $5-15 $20-50 $75+
Activities $5-15 $20-50 $75+
Daily total $50-100 $100-200 $300+

Best time to visit Split-Dalmatia County

May-June and September-October offer warm weather (22-26°C), fewer crowds, and lower prices. July and August are peak season with highest prices and crowds. The Adriatic is warm enough for swimming from late May to mid-October.

Essential travel tips

  • Research visa requirements before your trip
  • Learn a few basic phrases in the local language
  • Carry cash as cards may not be accepted everywhere
  • Respect local customs and dress codes
  • Purchase travel insurance before departure

Safety information

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Split-Dalmatia County?

The best time to visit Split-Dalmatia County depends on your interests. Check seasonal weather patterns for optimal timing.

What currency is used in Split-Dalmatia County?

The currency in Split-Dalmatia County is the Euro (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.

What language is spoken in Split-Dalmatia County?

The main language(s) spoken in Split-Dalmatia County: Croatian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.