Split, Croatia

Diocletian's Palace

This wasn’t a palace built in Split; it was Split itself that grew around the palace, which the Roman emperor Diocletian had had built for himself in the 3rd century. Marble for the palace was brought from Turkey, granite columns and sphinxes-from Egypt. The square building was so enormous (area - three hectares) that over time it turned into a fortress, protecting local residents from barbarian attacks. Years later, a city emerged from the fortress. Diocletian’s Palace has been preserved quite well. To this day, the imperial mausoleum (now part of a large Catholic cathedral dedicated to Saint Domnius), the Temple of Jupiter, three watchtowers, and the Peristyle have survived - a four-sided open-air hall surrounded by marble columns, which today has been claimed by street musicians and amateur choirs.

Cathedral of Saint Domnia

This temple is still in use. It is located in the center of the palace complex and consists of three parts, built in different eras. The main part of the temple, and the oldest, is Emperor Diocletian’s mausoleum. In the Middle Ages, a church was added to the mausoleum, and a tall bell tower was built. Later, the chancel (a special balcony for the church choir) was added as well. You can climb the bell tower and, from up high, enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city. By the way, the Cathedral in Split is named after Saint Duje, or Domnius, the city’s patron saint, who was executed on Diocletian’s orders for spreading Christian doctrines in the Roman Empire. Very interesting is the tall wooden door at the entrance to the Cathedral: on its panels, 14 scenes from the life of Christ are carved.

Riva Promenade

250 meters of cladding with rows of palms and benches-that’s the Riva waterfront, one of the most popular places in Split. In 2007 it underwent a major renovation, after which the townspeople split into two camps. Some criticized the authorities for abruptly cutting through the centuries-old history of the waterfront, destroying its “historic atmosphere,” while others were delighted that the Riva had finally taken on a more human look. In any case, the promenade has not lost a bit of its popularity, and with renewed energy it welcomes crowds of tourists, as well as sporting events, church services, and many other gatherings. Hungry? From the waterfront it’s easy to head to any of the many local restaurants, where they serve fried octopus and pour Croatian beer Karlovačko.

Archaeological Museum

The oldest museum in Croatia: it was founded in 1820. Its collection includes exhibits from prehistoric times, the early Christian period, and the Middle Ages. Most of them were discovered by Croatian archaeologists in central Dalmatia. The most interesting are: ceramics of the Greeks, clay amphorae, precious stones, a collection of ancient and medieval coins, as well as unique examples of ancient Roman glass.

Zlatni Rat Beach

One of the most picturesque Croatian beaches is located near Split-on the island of Brač. From afar, “Zlatni Rat” (“Golden Horn”) looks like a sandy beach-though in reality it is covered with fine pebbles, and on top it resembles a sea star’s ray. But due to the wind and waves, it often changes shape. If you go ashore on the island with children, be careful: half of the beach is taken up by nude bathers.

Marjan Peninsula

At the very edge of the Marjan peninsula stands the eponymous hill-an especially loved spot for rest for both visiting tourists and residents of the nearby city of Split. The hill is covered with dense pine forest and is completely surrounded by the sea and the city, making it an ideal place for a picnic or a romantic meeting. On Marjan Hill, there are numerous beaches, running tracks, and tennis courts. The picturesque views of the Marjan peninsula have drawn people for thousands of years. In ancient times, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, a luxurious palace-city was built here, home to between 8,000 and 10,000 people.

Spit Split Sightseeing Tour

During the excursion you will see the city’s main attraction, Diocletian’s Palace, - one of the rare examples of well-preserved antiquity, built from Brac stone. Brac is the island you can see opposite Split. You will be able to admire the ancient Peristyle and the Sphinx, the Cathedral of Saint Duje, its bell tower, and the Temple of Jupiter. It will be especially interesting in the smallest church of Saint Martin, where nuns of the Dominican Order live. You will surely pass by the eight-meter bronze statue of Bishop Grgur of Nin and touch the statue’s big toe, which will certainly bring happiness. Then tourists will enjoy a new part of the city and Mount Marjan with a beautiful panoramic view.

Excursion from Split to Šibenik

Unlike other towns along the Adriatic coast with ancient roots, Šibenik was founded by Croats after the Great Migration Period. Its name is first mentioned in 1066. The excursion through the old town, which expands in the shape of an amphitheater beneath a cliff crowned by the fortress of St. Mihovila, with a beautiful view of the sea, will let you see the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the Church of St. John (15th century), the Dominican and Benedictine monasteries, the old church in Šibenik of St. Krševan, and finally the UNESCO-protected masterpiece - St. James’ Cathedral. The Cathedral Baptistery is a jewel of Croatian sacred art. To conclude, guests can stroll along the waterfront and enjoy a cup of coffee.

For a more detailed list of excursions and their prices, you can review it after booking the cruise in your “Client Personal Account”.