Where to Stay in Split, Croatia: 6 Incredible Areas

Wondering where to stay in Split, Croatia and don’t know where to start? Here are the 6 best areas and everything you need to know. 

Perched on the Dalmatian Coast, Split has got to be one of the cutest old towns I’ve ever visited. During my road trip around Croatia, I absolutely loved this place and it’s easily become one of my favourite places in Europe. It’s also one of the best places to visit in Croatia, so no wonder it’s on your travel bucket list!

If you’re planning on spending a few days in Split, or even basing yourself there for a week in Croatia, you might be wondering where specifically to stay.

I was the same and debated for a long time between staying on the outskirts of the city or in the centre (they both have their perks, trust me!).

The Best Places to Stay in Split, Croatia

So, to take all the confusion out of planning your getaway, here are the 6 best places to stay in Split, Croatia.

1. Split Old Town – best for a first-time visit

In the end, we decided to stay in the old town and it was easily the best decision for us. We really enjoyed being in the centre of the action, being able to walk to all of the attractions in the city centre, and also our apartment was really cute! 

Old Town Split is steeped in history, boasting well-preserved Roman Architecture including the thing on everyone’s Split bucket list – the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Diocletian’s Palace. You’ll also find lots of great restaurants on your doorstep, perfect for getting stuck into Croatian cuisine. 

The ambience and atmosphere here are also unmatched. We spent one evening sitting on the cobblestone steps of the palace watching street performers and dancers putting on a show in the square. Everyone was gathered around and the atmosphere was wonderful. 

So, if you’re looking for the perfect place for a combination of historic charm, convenience, and pretty decent nightlife, you can’t go wrong with Split Old Town. 

The only downside we found is that, because we were driving around Croatia, parking was a little bit of a nightmare. The old town is not built for cars (it doesn’t even allow it!), so we had to find a car park outside of the city and walk in with our bags. 

Slightly inconvenient, but overall, still easily one of the best places we stayed in Croatia.

Feel Like An Emperor Apartments

These 4* apartments are located right in the centre of Split’s old town. It’s a great location, tucked down an alleyway and walking distance to many of Split’s top attractions. But, despite its central location, it wasn’t crowded to get to and we didn’t get woken up in the night by noise outside. 

The apartments themselves are very well-designed. The interior is modern, with white furnishings, a small kitchenette equipped with a hob, kettle, toaster, microwave, and coffee machine, and a stylish shower room with a rainfall shower and lighted mirror. 

The bed was large and very comfortable and exposed brick in the bedroom gave the room a cosy feel. Plus, you’re only 800 metres from the beach!

The apartment wasn’t too expensive either – ideal if you’re travelling around Croatia on a budget.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Feel Like an Emperor Apartments

Other options in Split Old Town

• Best budget option: The SUITES at Central Split – These 4* rooms are surprisingly affordable from just £50 per night. The rooms are comfortable, well-designed, and fairly roomy with a large double bed, and modern bathroom.
• Best luxury option: Piazza Heritage Hotel – Effortlessly combining modern and traditional styles, this beautiful hotel is ideal for a luxury getaway. The spacious rooms have plush armchairs, chandeliers, and velvet, and you’ll love the panoramic views from the windows!

2. Veli Varos – best for local culture and tranquil retreat

The charming neighbourhood of Veli Varos is mostly known for its labyrinth of alleyways, white stone houses, and medieval churches. It’s one of the best places to stay in Split if you want to immerse yourself in local culture.

Quieter than other parts of Split, this neighbourhood is also a great place to escape the hustle and bustle. Tucked away at the foot of Marjan Hill, this ancient neighbourhood retains much of its charm.

This can be seen along the winding cobbled streets, where you’ll find the 11th-century Church of St Nicholas, the Church of Our Lady of Soca, and the Church and Convent of St. Francis. 

Outdoor enthusiasts also enjoy Veli Varos for Marjan Forest Park. This expansive green space has beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife.

The area is home to plenty of shops, bars, and restaurants.

Hotel Agava Split

Conveniently placed right next to the sea and Marjan Park, Hotel Agava Split is a beautiful hotel with a wide selection of rooms and excellent facilities.

This 4-star hotel has a traditional Croatian interior and exterior. There’s also an outdoor pool and rooftop terrace for you to enjoy.

Every hotel room has a private bathroom, free toiletries, air conditioning, and a desk. Most rooms also have a minibar and sea views. Other key features at Hotel Agava Split include an outdoor swimming pool and a sun terrace.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Hotel Agava Split

Other options at Veli Varos

• Best budget option: Hostel BB – This property is in close proximity to Marjan Park, Meštrović Gallery, and People’s Square. The minimalist yet modern rooms feature a balcony, private bathrooms, and WiFi, and there’s a fitness centre and shared kitchen on-site.
• Best luxury option: Top Rooms – Offering sea views, Top Rooms is a 4-star beachfront property with a selection of luxury rooms and suites. Breakfast is included daily, and rooms have sea views, air conditioning, WiFi, and a flat-screen TV.

3. Bacvice Beach – best for beaches and nightlife

If you want to relax at the beach during the day and party the night away in the evening, consider staying in Bačvice. Just a short bus ride from the central bus station, this vibrant quarter is most famous for its beach.

Bacvice Beach is a popular go-to for locals and tourists alike. It offers white sand for sunbathing, sun loungers to lie back on, glorious turquoise waters, and beautiful mountain views of the bay’s far side.

Bacvice Beach is also the home of Picigin, a unique game that sees people try to keep a tennis ball above the water.

After sunset, Bacvice transforms into a partygoer’s dream. Bars, restaurants, and nightclubs come to life. Tropic Club is a big hit with tourists.

If you’d prefer to see more of the coastline, day trips and ferries are available at Bacvice Port.

Briig Boutique Hotel

Just steps from Bacvice Beach, Briig is a small boutique hotel. This gorgeous modern accommodation has a rooftop swimming pool and bar, a restaurant and terrace, a spa centre, and beautifully appointed rooms.

This hotel is a short walk from Diocletian’s Palace. It offers rooms with sea and city views and a penthouse suite with a hot tub. Every room has air conditioning, TVs, private bathrooms, and toiletries. 

The restaurant serves continental breakfast daily, and the spa features a hot tub, sauna, and masseuse. There’s also a fitness centre on-site.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Briig Boutique Hotel

Other options in Bacvice Beach

• Best budget option: Lugo Apartments – 350 yards from Bacvice Beach, Lugo Apartments offers a modern and clean apartment at an affordable price. Suitable for couples and families, it features an ensuite bathroom, double bed, sofa bed, and a small kitchen.
• Best luxury option: Hotel Villa Harmony – This 4-star hotel sits alongside Bacvice Beach and offers a wide range of luxury rooms. You’ll be treated to hot tubs, private pools, and private bathrooms fit for a king. Breakfast is included in your stay, and there’s a swimming pool, spa, and sauna on-site.

4. Znjan – best for families

Next up, we have Znjan, found in the eastern part of the city. Home to the largest beach in Split, this area is best suited to families with children and thrillseekers because there’s so much to do. 

You can spend your days sunbathing, swimming, playing games, and trying something new. For example, you could rent a jet ski, hire a pedal boat, play volleyball, or take to the skies on a parasailing tour.  

There’s also a trail around the beach, perfect for walking, cycling, and running. Meanwhile, children will enjoy playing in the large playground. There’s also an amusement centre and ice cream stalls.

If you’re seeking a more relaxed visit to Znjan, you should walk along the promenade. Here, you’ll find a selection of charming cafes, bars, restaurants, and a handful of shops.

Hotel Fanat

A stone’s throw from the pebbly shores of Znjan Beach, Hotel Fanat is a luxurious hotel with rooms and suites perfect for couples and families. Inside this stunning hotel, you’ll find a restaurant, a fitness centre, and rooms/suites with luxury furnishings.

This includes modern rooms with ensuite bathrooms and walk-in showers, balconies offering the best views over the ocean, floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and a comfortable seating area. Each room/suite also comes with a TV, air conditioning, and a minibar. 

The sea view suite with a balcony is perfect if you’re travelling with children. It’s spacious and has enough sleeping space for four people.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Hotel Fanat

Other options in Znjan

• Best budget option: Hotel Elu Iris – Offering comfortable rooms at an unbelievable price, Hotel Elu Iris is ideal if you’re travelling on a budget. The rooms feature all the amenities you need to enjoy your stay. The hotel has a 24-hour front desk, a bar, and a sun terrace.
• Best luxury option: Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – This 5-star hotel is perfect for couples and families looking for a luxury getaway. You can enjoy a private beach and pool area, tuck into food at three restaurants, and relax in their suites with balconies, sea views, and luxury bathrooms.

5. Split Riva – best for Old Town scenery and a social buzz

Split Riva’s seafront promenade is often seen as the city’s living room. No matter when you visit, you can expect a lively atmosphere with many things going on.

The area’s Old Town scenery makes Split Riva a wonderful place to walk. As you wander the busy streets, you’ll pass the impressive Diocletian’s Palace, once home to the Roman Emperor. 

Market stalls and restaurants line the main boardwalk, and plenty of benches in the shade offer an escape from the midday sun. Further along the Riva is the Split Marina, where you’ll find more bars, restaurants, and luxury yachts.

After wandering along the promenade, step back a few streets and explore the Old Town architecture. Don’t miss Old Town Hall, Radić Brothers Square, and Saint Domnius Cathedral. 

Summer Blues offers some excellent coastal tours if you want to escape the city for a few hours, too.

Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia 

Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia is perfect if you want to stay in the heart of Split Riva without breaking the bank. It offers several excellent room and suite options.

Every room or suite features elegant decor, air conditioning, large beds, and big bathrooms with walk-in showers. Heritage Hotel also has a restaurant and terrace overlooking an old square, so dine there one evening.

This hotel will happily pick you up from the airport, and a bicycle rental service is available for anyone who wants to explore Split by bike.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia

other options in Split Riva

• Best budget option: Old Town Hostel – This hostel provides budget-friendly twin, double, and mixed dormitory rooms in the centre of Split Riva. Situated next to Diocletian’s Palace, the rooms here are clean, modern, and spacious. There are shared bathrooms and laundry facilities on-site.
• Best luxury option: Hotel Luxe – The stylish Hotel Luxe features high-class rooms and suites with sea views. Every room is equipped with air conditioning and ensuite bathrooms. The facilities include a jacuzzi, sauna, and gym. A delicious buffet breakfast is served daily, too!

6. Meje – best for natural scenery and good vibes

The final location we have for you is Meje, a picturesque neighbourhood sandwiched between Croatia’s breathtaking coastline and Marjan Hill. This is the place to be if you want to enjoy Split’s natural beauty.

Here, you’ll find quiet white-sand beaches, lush green space, and a handful of interesting attractions like the Mestrovic Gallery. The best beach in the area is Kasjuni Beach. From the central part of Meje, you can walk around the coast to the beach in approximately 30 minutes.

Along the walk, look for Plaža Ježinac and Plaža Kaštelet. In fact, you could stop off at all three beaches and make a day of it!

If you’d prefer to keep your feet less sandy, visit the Archaeological Museum and other popular attractions, such as the Sculpture of Seagulls in Flight, Sustipan Memorial Park, and Split Harbour Lighthouse.

Hotel Cvita

Hotel Cvita is a 4-star hotel with a fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool, spa & wellness centre, a garden, and a sun terrace. There are six types of rooms to choose from, ranging from double rooms to exclusive double rooms with a balcony.

The hotel’s vintage decor oozes class, elegance, and royalty. Nevertheless, every room is equipped with modern features such as air conditioning, WiFi, and a flat-screen TV.

You will be treated to a buffet breakfast every morning. You can also use the on-site hot tub whenever you like.

✅ Check prices and book a room at Hotel Cvita

Other options in Meje

• Best budget option: West Coast Deluxe Rooms – This hotel’s modern bedrooms and luxury furnishings are incredible, as are the prices. Located near Jezinac Beach, rooms come with a complimentary bottle of prosecco, spacious double beds, private bathrooms, and sea views. There’s also a restaurant on-site that specialises in Mediterranean cuisine.
• Best luxury option: Vista dał Mare – This luxury apartment is 950 yards from Jezinac Beach. It’s perfect for families of four. It has traditional Croatian decor and comes with air conditioning, a kitchen, a TV, and a bathroom with a spa bathtub.

What are the best areas to stay in Split?

Split is one of the best places to visit in Croatia. It has a huge range of charming neighbourhoods each best suited to different travel types.

Some popular areas include the historic Old Town (Diocletian’s Palace) for its atmospheric streets and cultural attractions, Bacvice Beach for its lively seaside ambience, and Split Riva for its natural beauty and ocean views.

Is the Old Town a good place to stay in Split?

Yes, staying in the Old Town, particularly near Diocletian’s Palace, is a great way to truly immerse yourself in Split’s history.

You’ll be able to explore ancient Roman ruins, mediaeval architecture, and bustling squares. Accommodations here range from boutique hotels to cosy guest houses, providing easy access to historic sites, restaurants, and shops.

What are the advantages of staying near Bacvice Beach?

Bacvice Beach is a popular choice for travellers seeking a vibrant seaside atmosphere. It has sandy shores, clear waters, and beachside cafes. Bacvice Beach is a great place for leisurely days by the sea, water sports activities, and proximity to nightlife venues and cultural attractions.

What is the best area in Split for luxury accommodations?

The waterfront promenade, known as the Riva and the area around the West Coast (Zapadna Obala) offers upscale hotels, boutique properties, and luxury apartments with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

These areas also provide easy access to dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

How can I choose the best place to stay in Split for my budget?

In general, we found Split to be a really affordable place to stay. However, you should always think about factors such as whether it’s in a prime location, the amenities, and the proximity to attractions. These can all dramatically affect the price you’ll pay.

Typically, the Old Town and waterfront areas offer higher-priced options. You’ll often find more budget-friendly accommodation in neighbourhoods slightly further from the city centre.

Additionally, guesthouses, hostels, and vacation rentals are viable alternatives for those seeking more affordable options without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

Lastly, booking off-season can make a dramatic difference. We visited Croatia in October. The weather was still beautiful and we paid a fraction of what we would’ve paid for the same apartment in peak summer months.

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Split, Croatia

Overall, if you love cute old towns, cobbled streets, and a lovely atmosphere, you’ll love Split. The second largest city in Croatia is full of historic buildings, stone walls, and so much charm. 

There are loads of great places to stay in the city from hidden apartments, boutique stays, and luxury hotels. Where you choose to base yourself can really change the tone of your trip. 

So, if you’re planning a trip to Croatia, book your flights now! Then, use this Spit accommodation guide to check out the best hotels and make your stay extra special.

P.S. If you’re visiting Croatia, I also recommend visiting Zadar, Zagreb, Trogir, Pula, and Rijeka.