Last updated on July 21st, 2026 at 01:10 am
Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering where to stay in Split?
Known as the gateway to the Dalmatian islands, Split is home to one of Croatia’s most visited UNESCO World Heritage Sites and beautiful Rivieras, for these reasons, I’ve stayed in this city more times than any other place in Croatia, and only recently I thoroughly enjoyed stepping out of my stylish suite right on to the Venetian Riviera!
Split Old Town is the best place to stay in Split, centred around the atmospheric Diocletian’s Palace, where you can wake up to the sounds of cathedral bells, enjoy breakfast on a hidden stone plaza and spend your days surrounded by ancient history – it’s truly an unforgettable experience! Without a doubt it’s the best area for charm, character and romance, and nearby you have the vibrant Riva and Marjan Hill for stunning coastal views amongst the palm-lined promenades and elegant waterfront terraces!
I’ve always chosen the charming Old Town when staying in Split, and if there’s one thing it does exceptionally well, it’s beautiful luxury boutique hotels! Many are tucked inside centuries-old buildings, including wonderful stays like Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia set within the palace walls. It’s the reason why I return each summer! Below I’m sharing where to stay in Split from the best areas to my favourite boutique hotels, suites and private apartments!
Where To Stay In Split – My Quick Picks!
Short on time? Here are some of the best places to stay in Split!
- Hotel Ambassador – top hotel, rooftop pool & epic Riviera views!
- Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia – best overall boutique & terrace in Old Town!
- Judita Palace Boutique – charming historic hotel in Diocletian’s Palace!
Old Town, best place to stay in Split for charm!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA – OVERVIEW
While choosing the best place to stay in Split, I recommend focusing on Split Old Town, the UNESCO-listed heritage centre near Diocletian’s Palace and the vibrant ‘Venetian’ Riva for convenience and beautiful settings with excellent restaurants and iconic landmarks and it’s where you’ll find the best boutique accommodation in Split!
Split old town is compact with narrow lanes and almost entirely pedestrianised areas, similar to Dubrovnik old town and just as charming, and right in front of the old town wall is where the Riva joins and continues to upscale Marjan Hill – all within a few minutes walk, it’s where first time visitors will spend most of their time, exploring the city’s highlights and soaking up the atmosphere!
If you’re looking for five star or beach hotels, you’ll be further away from the Palace – in Podstrana Beach or Marjan Hill, but for that true Split experience, the best area to stay is the old town or within walking distance, it’s packed with historic attractions and beautiful boutique hotels with easy access to boats trips and ferries, making it the perfect all-round base!
Best Areas In Split Croatia – At A Glance
Old Town (UNESCO) – best for first time visitors
Split Old Town is the most central, historic location – a bustling and pedestrianised area, with the main attractions, boutique hotels, wine bars, and restaurants on your doorstep. It’s atmospheric and the best place to stay in Split for first visits!
Riviera – best for couples
Split’s Riva sits directly in front of the Diocletian’s Palace walls, a beautiful, vibrant, pedestrianised area along the seafront with palm trees, attractive restaurant terraces and Venetian architecture, a lovely place for couples!
Marjan Hill – best for luxury
Marjan Hill is an upmarket area with a Mediterranean-style setting, views across to the Riva and boasts modern villas and a few luxury hotels, just a 10-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace – perfect for quiet-luxury seekers!
Veli Varos – best for quiet stays
Vali Varos is an authentic neighbourhood near Marjan Hill and the Riva, with crumbly traditional houses and a local feel, this area is just a short stroll away from Diocletian’s Palace, a local hidden gem!
Bacvice/Podtrana – best for beach holidays
Bacvice is the nearest beach to Split’s old town, there’s some nightlife and restaurants, ideal for a beach holiday and only a 20-minute walk from the Riva, while Podstrana, a short drive away offers luxury resort-style accommodation ideal for families!
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA
OLD TOWN SPLIT – Diocletian’s Palace
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for first-time visitors!
Split’s Old Town is the perfect place to stay in Split for first-time visitors or for anyone who wants to be centrally located and surrounded by beautiful ancient buildings and atmosphere with the main attractions on your doorstep, you’ll be a quick stroll from Diocletian’s Palace, the cobbled streets, cosy wine bars and top restaurants!
Staying in Split old town means having your pick of the best boutique hotels including, Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia, where I stayed most recently, a real hidden gem with a secret rooftop, while being near the gorgeous waterfront promenade and you’ll also be within walking distance of many of my favourite things to do in Split.
The UNESCO-listed historic centre is what most visitors come to experience it’s the real heart and soul of the city, so while the mornings are peaceful, the main streets become busier with day trippers during peak season, but you can always find a quiet escape and in the evening, trust me, you’ll be totally captivated by it’s charms!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT OLD TOWN
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to Stay in Split Old Town: Hotel Santa Lucia
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia is the best boutique hotel in Split Old Town, set on a gorgeous square with a lovely ambiance and elegant interiors – I chose the deluxe room and was especially taken with the secret roof top terrace for sunset drinks, the rooms are spotless and huge and the location is ideal – explore this beautiful stay!
Judita Palace Heritage Hotel
Judita Palace Boutique is a historic and romantic place to stay within Diocletian’s Palace, set in a wonderfully opulent 16th-century palace, boasting antique interiors and classic old-world charm, it’s a popular choice for couples, I recommend upgrading to the deluxe double with a balcony see room options!
Golden Gate – private luxury rooms
Golden Gate offers a more affordable luxury boutique stay for those looking for a beautiful suite with modernised and superior amenities. I love the unique Diocletian location right along the ancient stone wall, everything here is totally brand new and upscale, a perfect place for central stays within Split Old Town.
Vestibul Palace Hotel
Vestibul Palace is a small luxury hotel in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace set within a quiet charming square – offering just 4 well designed rooms decorated with elevated furnishing for the upmost comfort, the setting and breakfast spot is particularly lovely making it one of the most popular places to stay in Split for those looking for an authentic stay!
Porto Nativo – private rooms & studios
Porto Nativo offers a chic mid-priced stay with three newly renovated Mediterranean-style rooms all decked out in dreamy boho-luxe furnishings! I’ve stayed here for almost a week, it makes a convenient base for exploring Split and beyond, if available I recommend the superior double facing the atmospheric street and would happily stop again, view the rooms!
Top Tip! If you plan to stay in Split Old Town, book your boutique hotel as soon as possible, the best sell out fast, especially between June and September!
SPLIT RIVA – RIVIERA
Best place to stay in Split for couples!
The long Riviera sits between Diocletian’s Palace and the harbour, it’s an attractive and vibrant place to stay in Split with Venetian architecture and upscale restaurant terraces situated along the palm-tree-lined prom and many of the boutiques here offer sweeping sea views and balconies, this is one of my personal favourite areas in Split and it’s ideal for couples!
I love spending time on Split’s waterfront, it’s always bustling and there’s some lovely places to relax and people watch – see the Olive Tree above, one of my top spots and it’s where I once stayed for four nights, above the terraces in Split’s Finest Apartment, with exceptional Riva views and just a stone’s throw from all the activity, including private boat tours that leave from the harbour!
And not only is the area picturesque the location is also practical, at one end of the Riviera, you’ll find the port for island-hopping around Dalmatia and the other upmarket Marjan Hill with it’s panoramic viewpoint and luxury hotel – Hotel Ambassador, the most central 5-star hotel boasting a rooftop pool and stunning Riviera views, ideal for cooling off on a hot summer’s day!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT RIVA
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Split Riva: Hotel Ambasador
Hotel Ambasador
Hotel Ambasador is the best hotel in Split, known for its luxury minimalist style and stunning rooftop pool overlooking the marina and Riva – I stopped here one time after island-hopping to re-coop and loved the superior experience, it’s the perfect place for summer, the premium king room balcony with sea-view is absolutely worth upgrading to, see the views above!
Split Finest Apartment
Finest Suite is a lovely romantic apartment on the best part of the Riva with plenty of space, upscale and elegant furnishings in keeping with the area – during my four night stay I really enjoyed sitting on the balcony and watching the world go by, a great-value boutique place to stay in Split, especially for couples or solos, the location is fabulous – view this stay!
Adriatik Lux Apartment
Adriatik Lux is a light and airy two-bedroomed apartment with a roomy lounge and all the mod-cons for a stylish and comfortable stay, plus there’s a wonderful sea-view Venetian balcony for people-watching and breakfasting – this is one of the nicest places to stay in Split for small groups, especially if you’re after privacy and all the amenities!
MEJE – MARJAN HILL
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for quiet luxury!
Marjan Hill is one of the most serene and upmarket area to stay in Split, offering luxury hotels with sea views, pine trees, local beaches and the best panorama from the top of the hill, while being just a 15-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace. This is a lovely spot for those looking for quiet luxury and convenience – think evening walks along the waterfront!
Staying in Marjan Hill is more peaceful than old town and the Riva, fewer tourists make it this far when walking around the prom, leaving the terraces more relaxed at this side of the town and what I like most of all is the private harbour, Mediterranean gardens and wonderful views – and some of those are from the boutique hotels!
While this area of Split is not over-run with accommodation, you will find some of the top hotels in Split here, such as stylish boutique Mirari and hotel Ambassador (set on the corner of Marjan Hill), with rooftop pools and a more modern appearance and for private accommodation, there’s chic apartments and elegant villas to choose between, similar to the Dubrovnik accommodation in upmarket Ploce!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT’S MARJAN HILL/MEJE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Split Marjan Hill: Boutique Hotel Mirari
Mirari Boutique Hotel
Mirari, is one of the newest and best great-value boutique hotels in Split, boasting a sea-facing rooftop pool and gorgeous Mediterranean grounds, there is style and flare in abundance at this hotel, and each room comes with a seaview and some with balconies! I’ve visited for drinks on the terrace and love style and scenic walk along the seafront – view this stay!
Aurelius – apartment
Aurelius is a tastefully decorated and bright newly renovated two-bedroomed apartment with pretty Old Town and harbour views from the fantastic wrap-around balcony, fully equipped with all the mod cons – then some, a great option for groups wanting space, luxury and privacy, you could relax in style for a few days here!
Villa KaTess – private villa
Villa KaTess offers a modern villa for up to six guests, ideal for families, you’ll have a private pool, sun terrace and garden with a children’s play area and all the mod cons and essentials for comfort, one of the best places to stay in Split if you’re looking for your own calm abode in Split’s most affluent and tranquil area!
VELI VAROS
Best place to stay in Split for local charm!
Veli Varos is the oldest neighbourhood of Split, a low-key, authentic area tucked behind Marjan Hill, where you’ll find a series of original and crumbly townhouses with green shutters and a maze of tiny streets, it really reminds me of nearby Trogir – the vibe and aesthetic is completely different from it’s neighbouring glam Venetian Riva!
If you are wondering where to stay in Split, Veli Varos is often an overlooked option, it feels like stepping into a small Dalmatian village rather than Croatia’s second-largest city, there’s hardly any tourism or big crowds of people here, but you are only a short stroll from the promenade and all the best things to do in Split!
While the location is convenient Velo Varos is also one of the best areas to stay in Split for great value boutique hotels, one of which is Sperone Boutique hotel, featuring a variety of stylish rooms and a pool for the hotter summer months, and for that reason alone, it’s the best place to stay in Vali Varos!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT VELI VAROS
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Split Vali Varos: Boutique Hotel Sperone
Sperone Boutique Hotel
Sperone is a attractive heritage boutique hotel in Veli Varos with a secret spa, pool and bar, a real hidden gem featuring stone walls and charming decor throughout, a great value boutique hotel for this authentic neighbourhood area in Split – the penthouse is absolutely worth the splurge for the private terrace alone!
Ibella Boutique Rooms
Ibella, is a brand new affordable luxury 4-star boutique offering a relaxed ambience and cool boho-chic style across all four rooms and spaces, which include an aesthetically pleasing plunge pool area with luxe loungers, I like the unique style of this accommodation in Split, the rooms are beautiful!
Villa Pauletta – private villa
Villa Pauletta, is one of the coolest and best places to stay in Split for groups, you’ll love the pool, balcony, spacious terrace, it feels homely and has all the modern facilities you could ask for, even free bikes and an outdoor cinema for those hot summer nights!
BACVICE & PODSTRANA BEACHES
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for beaches!
Where to stay in Split Bacvice: Heritage Hotel Park
Further along the coastline, you’ll find larger stretches of beach and a few luxury resorts along the beautiful shoreline, its the best area to stay in Split for families, slightly longer stays (4 nights or more) and those looking for hotels in Split with a relaxed ambience, more amenities and beachfront settings!
Bacvice is the nearest beach to Split old town, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, there’s a modern outlook with restaurants and nightlife, far removed from the cosy taverns and charming boutique’s of the old town – the hotels at this beach have gardens or pools over-looking the sea. It works as a great option for the summer months, where you might want to spend a few hours by the sea or pool lounger on a hot afternoon between sightseeing!
But, for luxury on the beach I highly recommend Podstrana, a 10 minute drive from the old town, where you’ll be rewarded with a much better beach and setting, away from the town’s crowds and it’s where the top luxury hotels in Split are situated, including – Le Meridien Lav Split, I have spent many hours over summer enjoying their fabulous sea-facing beach club, it’s the best beach in Split – and if you stay here there are complimentary shuttles to town!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT’S BEACHES
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Where to stay in Split, Le Meridien Lav Split
Le Meridien Lav Split Resort
Le Meridien, a premium 5-star luxury resort situated in Podstrana, a 10-minute drive from the old town, offering incredible sea-view rooms and top-notch amenities, including a private marina, spa and beach club, is easily one of my favourite spots on the beach, where I have spent time enjoying their sprawling luxe beach club, sea-view rooms are worth the upgrade!
Hotel Park Split
Hotel Park Split is a very popular traditional Croatian hotel with elegant rooms and an attractive pool area, set in a Mediterranean leafy garden with an restaurant and sprawling terrace, some rooms come with seaview-balconies or see-facing garden terraces, just opposite Batvice and a 10-minute walk to the Riva!
Briig Boutique Hotel
Briig Boutique sits next to Bacvice Beach and is great for those who love a minimalist, more modern hotel with spacious, open-plan rooms and cool decor, there’s an outdoor breakfast terrace and a rooftop pool to relax on hotter days – it has a adult vibe!
Looking for the best beach hotels in Split, Croatia?
I also have a full guide featuring the best hotels in Split on the beach, including boutique stays, luxury escapes and beachfront suites you’ll love!
What Is The Best Area To Stay In Split Croatia overall?
Overall, the best area to stay in Split is the Old Town, home to the city’s main historic landmarks, museums, and best boutique hotels, many of which are former palaces, all within walking distance – the old town is what visitors come to experience!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT – INSIDER TIPS!
Stay Around Split Old Town If It’s Your First Visit
For first-time visitors the best place to stay in Split Croatia is the old town, an attractive and convenient area to explore Split’s main sights on foot, including Diocletian’s Palace, the cathedral, Riviera and Marjan Hill, in my opinion Judita Palace Boutique is the best hotel in Split old town, perfectly situated for exploring the charming lanes straight outside the door!
Best Months To Visit Split
The main time to visit Split is summer, between May and September, but for the best experience, great weather and fewer crowds, I recommend May-June or mid-September, my personal favourite time is June, which is the best month to visit Croatia when the evenings are lighter, beaches are opening up, and you can visit the Croatian Islands and September is great for a warmer sea and great end of summer value!
How Many Days To Spend In Split
Many visitors arrive for an overnight stay before visiting the Dalmatian Islands, but really, 3 days in Split is ideal. Staying longer allows you to relax and enjoy the waterfront, heritage town, and beaches, while still leaving time to explore nearby gems and go on epic boat trips from Split harbour!
Parking Is Limited Inside The Old Town
Croatia’s heritage towns are notoriously difficult to park in, and Split Old Town is almost fully pedestrianised, so you won’t be able to park in front of your hotel. If you have a car, some hotels along Marjan Hill and the beaches offer on-site parking; alternatively, there are some parking lots outside the old town – you’ll have to walk in with your luggage.
Split Old Town Is Compact And Walkable
Split Old Town is compact and very walkable, with many pedestrianised areas, including the entire Diocletian’s Palace, Riva and most of Marjan Hill, making it a hassle-free, easy to get around and charming area to stay, just like Dubrovnik Old Town, Korcula Town and Hvar Town in the Dalmatian Region!
How To Get Around Split & Beyond
Everything in and around the Old Town, such as the Riva and Marjan Hill, is completely walkable; buses, taxis and cheap Ubers cover the beaches in Split easily. The main bus station is at the end of the Riva opposite the port, for going slightly further afield, and you can easily rent boats or go on boat excursions from the harbour!
I’ve shared all my favourite spots, including historic gems and day trips, in my Unmissable Things to Do in Split guide!
What To Pair With Split?
Split is in the perfect location for a multi-stop trip, my personal favourite is pairing Split for 3 nights with Hvar for 4 nights or for longer stays adding Vis Island for 2 nights, this covers both historic city with a vibrant and most attractive island in the Adriatic and Vis a laid back authentic Island to end your trip!
Riva, best place to stay in Split for sea views & vibes!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA: FAQ
Is Split Croatia worth visiting?
Yes! From historic sights to beaches and boat trips, there are plenty of things to do in Split, making it an ideal base for exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. It’s well worth staying in Split for a few days.
What is the best place to stay in Split?
The best place to stay in Split overall is the old town, where you will be surrounded by ancient history, cafes, restaurants, places and the most beautiful settings!
What is the best hotel in Split Croatia?
The best hotel in Split is Hotel Ambasador a stylish 5-star hotel on the seafront right next to the Riva boasting epic harbour and old town views from their premium suites and the rooftop terrace with its stunning pool, a stay here is luxurious!
What are the best boutique hotels in Split Croatia?
Most visitors will want that quintessential Split Old Town experience and the best boutique hotels to stay are Santa Lucia, Judita Palace or Vestibul Palace – all perfectly situated for exploring the attractions – just stroll away!
What are the best beach hotels in Split Croatia?
If your looking to stay in the beach near the old town the best beach hotels in Split are, Le Meridian and Hotel Park Split, for full details check out my full guide to the best beach hotels in Split here!
Where to stay in Split Croatia for nightlife?
The best place to stay in Split for nightlife is around Split Old Town and especially the Riva – the daytime is relaxed, people pass the hours drinking coffee, but in the evening it livens up with live music and jazz bars!
Where to stay in Split Croatia for couples?
The best places to stay in Split for couples are the old town for its romantic atmosphere and wonderful boutique hotels like Judita Palace Heritage Hotel and stylish Marjan Hill for rooftop pools with stunning views – check out Mirari Boutique!
Where to stay in Split Croatia with family?
Split Old Town offers little for families as there’s cobbled streets, boutique hotels and mostly high-end restaurants, the best places to stay in Split Croatia for families are the beach areas, such as Bacvice or Podstrana with resorts and pools like Le Meridien or Marjan Hill, where you can find villa rentals or family rooms.
Where to stay in Split for beach holidays?
The best places to stay in Split for beach holidays are around Marjan Hill where you have access to small picturesque bays and further way there’s Bacvice and Podstrana areas, which offer longer beaches and beachfront hotels.
Where to stay in Split without a car?
The best area to stay in Split without a car is the Old Town, including Marjan Hill and Riviera, where you can easily walk around the main sights, and it has fantastic transport links. For exploring the coast, there are boat trips and inland day trips from Split to nearby gems, plus the Split tourist information has monthly event details!
Planning a trip to Split?
Planning your trip to Split? I’ve also shared a complete what to do travel guide for first-time visitors, my favourite things to do, and the best day trips – perfect for pulling together your ideal itinerary!
- Best Things To Do In Split – ruins, restaurants, beach clubs & experiences!
- Best Day Trips From Split – heritage town, islands, lagoons & waterfalls worth visiting!
- How To Spend 3 Days In Split – top itinerary planning tips for Split!
- Best Beaches Of Split – Split beaches for relaxing & sunbathing
- Top Private Boat Tours From Split – island hopping & stunning coastal scenery!
- Split To Trogir Day Trip – explore coastal heritage gem!
SAVE & SHARE: WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA!
Where To Stay In Split Croatia: Best Areas and Boutique Hotels | Pin For Later
This post contains affiliate links and I earn a small commission when you make a purchase using the link. This is at no extra cost to you and it allows the site to keep running. Some hotel images are provided by our booking partners.
If you’ve used one of my free guides, you can also BUY ME A COFFEE to say, thanks!
Michelle Trudie, is the founder of Little Wanderblog, a luxury boutique travel site. She has travelled to over 30 countries in the last 15 years. Michelle share’s her passion for stylish and affordable luxury travel experiences in Europe and beyond! Her goal is to make travel planning easier to hidden gem places!