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9-Day Mediterranean Cruise from Piraeus on MSC Splendida
9-day cruise on the MSC Splendida to Greece - Turkey - Italy - Croatia
Split, Croatia
Split is Croatia’s lively Dalmatian capital, where ancient Roman architecture, Mediterranean cafés and a busy waterfront come together on the Adriatic coast. The city grew around the Palace of Emperor Diocletian, built at the beginning of the fourth century, and its historic centre remains one of Europe’s most remarkable living monuments.
Split Cruise Port lies close to the city centre, making it especially convenient for cruise passengers spending one day ashore. From the harbour, you can walk towards the palm-lined Riva and quickly reach the narrow streets, courtyards and squares of the UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Beyond its Roman heritage, Split offers sea views, local markets, beaches and the green slopes of Marjan Hill. Its relaxed Dalmatian atmosphere makes it easy to combine sightseeing with swimming, shopping and a leisurely lunch.
Top attractions and sights in Split
Diocletian’s Palace is the essential place to begin a visit to Split. Rather than being a conventional monument, the palace forms the heart of the modern city, with homes, shops, restaurants and cafés occupying its ancient walls. Explore the Peristyle, the ceremonial central square, and the nearby Vestibule, an impressive domed entrance hall.
Below ground, the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace reveal remarkably preserved Roman foundations and passageways. They also contain stalls selling Croatian crafts and souvenirs. The Cathedral of Saint Domnius incorporates Diocletian’s mausoleum, while its bell tower provides memorable views over the Old Town and harbour.
Walk along the Riva waterfront for views of the ferries, yachts and surrounding islands. Just beyond the palace, the People’s Square and Fruit Square offer attractive historic buildings, lively terraces and a taste of everyday Split. The Green Market is a good place to see local produce and experience the city’s morning rhythm.
For panoramic scenery, visit Marjan Hill, a wooded peninsula overlooking Split, the Adriatic and nearby islands. Art lovers can visit the Ivan Meštrović Gallery, dedicated to one of Croatia’s most important sculptors. Depending on your schedule, a walk through Marjan’s pine forests can provide a peaceful contrast to the busy Old Town.
Beaches near Split
Bačvice Beach is the most famous beach close to central Split and is known for the traditional local ball game called picigin. Its shallow waters and urban setting make it convenient for cruise visitors, although it can become busy in summer.
Firule Beach, near Bačvice, is a smaller sheltered cove with shallow water and a relaxed neighbourhood atmosphere. Žnjan Beach offers a longer coastal area with swimming spots, cafés and views across the Adriatic, while Kašjuni Beach on the Marjan peninsula is a scenic option surrounded by Mediterranean greenery.
Beach conditions and access can vary by season, so passengers should allow enough time to return to the ship and consider local traffic when visiting beaches farther from the port.
Local products and shopping in Split
Split is a good place to shop for authentic Dalmatian products, including extra-virgin olive oil, local wines, dried figs, honey and herbal liqueurs. Look for lavender products from the Dalmatian coast, such as scented sachets, soaps and essential oils.
The historic centre contains shops selling Croatian ceramics, handmade jewellery, leather goods and souvenirs inspired by Diocletian’s Palace. The Green Market is useful for browsing seasonal fruit, vegetables, almonds and other local ingredients, while the fish market reflects Split’s long connection with the Adriatic.
Traditional lace, embroidered textiles and small stone or wood crafts can also make thoughtful souvenirs. For edible gifts, choose sealed products that are easy to carry and check your cruise line’s rules before bringing food or drink back on board.
Food and local cuisine in Split
Dalmatian cuisine centres on fresh fish, seafood, olive oil, seasonal vegetables and aromatic herbs. Try grilled fish, octopus salad or black risotto, a seafood rice dish coloured with cuttlefish ink. Local restaurants may also serve brudet, a slow-cooked fish stew traditionally accompanied by polenta.
For a hearty regional speciality, order pašticada, tender beef braised in a rich sweet-and-sour sauce and usually served with gnocchi. Soparnik, a savoury pie filled with Swiss chard, olive oil and garlic, comes from the nearby Poljica area and is another excellent Dalmatian dish to look for.
Finish with fritule, small fried pastries often flavoured with citrus, raisins or rakija. Croatian wines from Dalmatia, including Pošip and Plavac Mali, are popular choices, while prošek is a traditional sweet dessert wine. Local rakija, often flavoured with herbs or fruit, is another regional drink, although it should be enjoyed carefully before returning to the ship.
Tips for cruise passengers in Split
Split Cruise Port is close to the historic centre, and many passengers can reach the Riva and Diocletian’s Palace on foot after leaving the ship. Depending on where the vessel is berthed, port transfers or a short taxi ride may be available, so follow the ship’s instructions and allow time for disembarkation.
The Old Town is best explored on foot, but its ancient streets can be uneven and slippery, particularly around the palace cellars and historic squares. Wear comfortable shoes, carry water and bring sun protection during the warmer months.
For a well-balanced day, start with Diocletian’s Palace and the cathedral, then walk along the Riva and visit the Green Market. Continue to Marjan Hill or choose a nearby beach, leaving time for a Dalmatian lunch and a relaxed return to the port.
Split can become crowded when several cruise ships arrive at once. Begin sightseeing early, book any planned excursion in advance and keep the ship’s all-aboard time in mind. Independent travellers should return to the port with a generous buffer, especially if using taxis or public transport.