Last updated on January 27th, 2026 at 10:02 pm
Are you planning a trip to Croatia and wondering where to stay in Split? I’ve got you covered!
Known as the gateway to the Dalmatian islands, Split is home to one of Croatia’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites and is easily one of my favourite places to stay along the Adriatic coast, a destination I always find myself returning to!
Split’s main attraction is, of course, the old town’s atmospheric Diocletian’s Palace – and it’s fantastic, one of the best places to stay in Split by far! I love the ambience here – think relaxed heritage mornings, but you also have the Riva and Marjan Hill for unbeatable sea views, long Dalmatian lunches and beautiful vistas!
I’ve stopped in all three spots, and each offers some of the best accommodation in Split, from heritage-listed boutiques within the palace walls to luxury hotels with epic rooftops like Hotel Ambassador – I share my absolute top picks below!
Quick Picks: Best Hotels In Split Croatia!
Short on time? Here are some of the best places to stay in Split!
- Hotel Ambassador – best hotel & rooftop pool in Split!
- Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia – best overall boutique in Old Town!
- Golden Gate Suites – best suites in Diocletian’s Palace!
- Le Meridien Lav – best beach hotel in Split!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA – OVERVIEW
When planning where to stay in Split Croatia, you’ll want to know a bit about the areas and overall layout, especially if it’s your first visit!
You may have spotted Split’s enviable coastal location, a stone’s throw from some of the best Croatian islands and while this port city may look spread out on a map, the old town is the real heart of Split with its UNESCO Diocletian’s Palace and cobbled lanes, and this is where visitors will spend most of their time!
Right in front of the palace walls is the lively Riviera, one of Croatia’s most beautiful palm-tree-lined promenades, which leads neatly to the upmarket area of Marjan Hill featuring villas, luxury hotels and stunning sea views!
We’ll dive into each area in more detail below, but here’s a quick peek at the five main areas to stay in Split!
For first-time visitors, the best places to stay in Split are the Old Town, the Riviera or the foothills of Marjan Hill – these spots are attractive and convenient, within an easy walk to Split’s main sights!
Best Areas In Split Croatia – At A Glance
Old Town (Diocletian’s Palace)
Old Town is the best place to stay in Split for first-time visitors, to experience the real ambience and attractions of Split. This is the most central location with history, boutique hotels, cobbled streets and squares – it’s very walkable!
Riviera (Riva)
Riva sits directly next to the Old Town, just outside Diocletian’s Palace walls. A beautiful, vibrant area along the waterfront with palm trees, attractive restaurant terraces and Venetian architecture – my favourite spot!!
Marjan Hill (Meje)
Marjan Hill is an upmarket area next to the Riva with modern villas and a few luxury hotels surrounded by nature and harbour views, a 10-minute walk from the old town and Diocletian’s Palace!
Veli Varos
Vali Varos is an authentic suburb near Marjan Hill, with crumbly traditional houses and a local feel, this low-key area is just a stroll away from Diocletian’s Palace, suitable for shorter stays.
Bacvice
Bacvice is the nearest beach to Split old town with a few accommodation options, it’s around a 20-minute walk from the edge of the Diocletian Palace walls, there’s some nightlife here and leafy spots.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA
OLD TOWN SPLIT – Diocletian’s Palace
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for first-time visitors!
The old town is by far the best place to stay in Split for first visits, or anyone who wants to be central to the main sights. Diocletian’s Palace is the heart and soul of the city!
Within it, there’s bags of history, including Saint Dominus Cathedral, ancient architecture and a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets filled with charming restaurants, boutique hotels and atmosphere – especially at night, where you’ll be totally captivated!
If you’re wondering where to stay in Split, don’t hesitate to pick the old town, it’s the most central location. It offers beautiful suites and heritage boutique accommodation in Split with original stone features and beamed ceilings, such as Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia, situated on a fabulous square!
Also, the beautiful Riva sits neatly in front of the sea-facing UNESCO wall – one of the main entry points, so you have the best of both areas to explore if you stay here!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT OLD TOWN
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia is a gorgeous, newly renovated boutique hotel. It’s a great choice, combining style, charm and elegance in the heart of the old town – I’ve visited for drinks and sunset on the fabulous terrace, and it’s easily one of my favourite places in the city!
Golden Gate – private luxury rooms
Golden Gate, a selection of beautifully modernised suites with a unique Diocletian location, right along the ancient wall! It’s rare to find spacious suites and with such high-quality that include extra luxuries like Nespresso, a great option!
Judita Palace Heritage Hotel
Judita Palace Boutique is a lovely place to stay, set in a palace dating back to the 16th century, boasting traditional rooms, ancient ceilings, courtyards and elegant decor! If it’s available, grab the deluxe double room with balcony – it’s unbeatable.
Vestibul Palace & Villa Hotel
Vestibul Palace, a small luxury hotel set in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, highlights include stylish rooms and a beautiful, atmospheric square, where an amazing breakfast is served every morning, one of the most popular places to stay in Split for couples!
Porto Nativo – private suites
Porto Nativo sits on a charming cobbled street corner, there’s just three wonderful Mediterranean-style suites with dreamy boho-luxe furnishings, perfect for independent, central stays – it’s really lovely!
SPLIT RIVA – RIVIERA
Best place to stay in Split for sea views!
Split’s popular and vibrant Riva sits directly in front of the Diocletian’s Palace wall, which is the place for long lunches, sunset drinks and people watching – see the above picture featuring the Olive Tree terrace, I’ve spent a lot of time here!
This waterfront area is one of Croatia’s most beautiful, with a lovely palm tree-lined prom, sea-facing terraces and stunning Venetian buildings – and some of those house super large apartments like pretty Adriatik Lux Riva!
To be honest, I was amazed when I first visited Split and laid eyes on this promenade, the attractiveness was so unexpected, and I often stop here for a few nights before heading to the islands of Hvar or Korcula!
At the end of the Riva – or Riviera you’ll find scenic Marjan Hill and popular Hotel Ambassador! A super hotel with the best sea and old town views, this is a top choice for where to stay in Split; the rooftop pool views are unbeatable!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT RIVA
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Hotel Ambasador
Hotel Ambasador is one of my favourite spots in Split, known for its luxury design and stunning rooftop pool overlooking the marina. I’ve visited often, and think it’s a fantastic choice for a modern, stylish stay near the Riva. The Premium King Room with sea-view corner is the one to book!
Adriatik Lux
Adriatik Lux is a beautiful and spacious two-bedroomed apartment in the best area of Split Riva, housed in a stunning Venetian building with a seaview balcony built for people watching and breakfasting, it’s perfect for privacy and space!
Riva Palace, Split – private rooms
Riva Palace offers ancient architecture and stylish modernisations with generously sized rooms and shutters that open up to views of the promenade and harbour – it’s incredibly romantic and beautiful and ideal for couples!
Split Finest Apartment
Finest Suite is a lovely romantic apartment on the best part of the Riva with plenty of space and tasteful neutral design – the seaview balcony is ideal for sipping your morning Nespresso, a gorgeous place to stay in Split!
MEJE – MARJAN HILL
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for luxury!
Marjan Hill, also known as Meje, is a lovely alternative place to stay in Split – a quieter, more refined spot only a 10-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace!
It’s widely known as the most upmarket area, with luxury villas and newer accommodation in Split. You can see this location clearly from the Riva as it simply follows on from the main promenade – leading to a harbour full of boats, it’s not too far from anything!
Many people visit this location to walk to the top of Marjan Hill, which is the main viewing point of Split and best panorama of the city, there’s lots of scenic green spaces here and it’s near some of the best beaches in Split.
My favourite hotel, the Ambassador sits on the edge of Marjan Hill and you also have a new stylish boutique – Mirari, which offers a lovely view and rooftop pool, I’ve visited for a sunset drink and the atmosphere was lovely!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT’S MARJAN HILL/MEJE
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Mirari Boutique Hotel
Mirari, a new chic 4-star boutique with a lovely sea-facing rooftop pool and terraces offering a gorgeous Mediterranean outlook, sea views, a variety of terraces and individually styled rooms! I’ve visited for drinks on the wonderful terrace and love the ambience!
Aurelius – apartment
Aurelius is an exceptionally well-designed 2-bedroomed apartment with old town and harbour views! It’s newly renovated to a very high standard and there’s a fantastic wrap-around balcony to relax, a great option for groups!
Villa KaTess – private villa
Villa KaTess offers space for six guests, ideal for families or groups, there’s a pool, sun terrace and garden with a children’s play area and all the mod cons for a stay in Split’s most affluent area!
VELI VAROS
Best place to stay in Split for local vibes!
Veli Varos is a low-key, authentic neighbourhood, the oldest in Split, which sits behind the base of Marjan Hill, sort of tucked away, if you didn’t know it was there, you’d walk right past it!
This area definitely has a local vibe, with residents going about their daily business. You won’t find restaurants or tourism here, and buildings are more crumbly and characterful, with traditional stone wall houses and green shutters!
You’ll find more Airbnbs in this part of town than anywhere else, I did this once and the problem is finding them amongst the maze of streets, houses and neighbours. I don’t recommend this option in case you end up someplace less than desirable!
Velo Varos is the best place to stay in Split if you’re after a local vibe, while being just a stone’s throw from the busy Riva and if you fancy staying in this area, I recommend the Sperone Boutique hotel, which offers a variety of well-decorated rooms and a pool!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT VELI VAROS
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Sperone Boutique Hotel
Sperone is a lovely mid-range heritage boutique hotel in Veli Varos with a secret spa, pool and bar! This is a hidden gem with original features, stone walls and charming decor, it’s the best choice for this area in Split!
Ibella Boutique Rooms
Ibella, a new small 4-star boutique offering boho-chic accommodation in Split with beautiful rooms and an aesthetically pleasing plunge pool area with stylish loungers, which will be lovely in summer!
Villa Pauletta – private villa
Villa Pauletta, is the best place to stay in Split for groups! This cool villa includes a pool, balcony, spacious terrace, and all the modern facilities you could ask for even free bikes and an outdoor cinema!
BACVICE & PODSTRANA BEACHES
Best place to stay in Split Croatia for resort style!
Bacvice is the closest and main beach suburb to Split’s old town, you can walk to it in just 20 minutes. The beach is popular with local families due to the super shallow and calm shoreline and the area is not overly developed, July and August are especially busy times!
If I’m honest, the beach isn’t the primary reason for visiting Split, other beaches in Split offer a more attractive appearance (even pebble ones) than Bacvice, including those around nature-filled Marjan Hill. But, Bacvice is the nearest beach to the old town where you can find a hotel and a pool, the most popular being Heritage Hotel Park Split, set within a nice private leafy green area with sea views!
Podstrana is another area to consider, a short drive from Split’s Riva, Le Meridien Lav Split dominates one of the best stretches of the coast; it’s wonderful, a luxury resort to relax, one of the very few in the area- I’ve spent a lot of time at the beach club here – ideal for slightly longer stays!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT’S BEACHES
Hotels, Boutiques & Apartments!
Le Meridien Lav Split Resort
Le Meridien, a popular 5-star luxury resort situated in Podstrana, a 10-minute drive from the old town offering incredible sea view rooms and top luxurious amenities, including a private marina, tennis courts, six restaurants and a fantastic spa and beach club, I’ve sunbathed here often – easily one of my favourite places on the beach!
Hotel Park Split
Hotel Park Split is a traditional Croatian hotel with elegant rooms and an attractive pool area surrounded by Mediterranean atmosphere and a beach view. There are lots of amenities in this medium-sized hotel, and you can walk to the old town in 10-minutes!
Briig Boutique Hotel
Briig Boutique sits next to Bacvice Beach and is a minimalist popular modern hotel, with a striking look, unlike any other hotel in Split! Guests love the spacious open-plan rooms, cool decor and rooftop pool!
Looking for the best beach hotels in Split, Croatia?
I also have a full guide featuring the best hotels on the beach in Split, including boutique stays, luxury escapes and beachfront suites you’ll love!
Summary Of The Best Places To Stay In Split Croatia!
Here’s a quick summary for where to stay in Split Croatia, the below accommodation options are my absolute top picks – where I’ve stayed or visited!
LUXURY HOTEL: Hotel Ambasador
BOUTIQUE HOTELS: Santa Lucia, Judita Palace or Mirari Boutique
BEST NEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Mirari Boutique
STYLISH PRIVATE SUITES: Golden Gate or Porto Nativo
ROMANTIC BOUTIQUE HOTEL: Judita Palace Heritage Hotel
BEST BEACH HOTEL: Brigg Boutique or Le Meridian
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT – INSIDER TIPS!
When To Visit Split
The main time to visit Split is between May and September. For the best experience, great weather and fewer crowds, consider May-June or September. Late May is my favourite as the evenings are lighter and the beaches are just opening up!
How Many Days In Split
I recommend staying for a minimum of 3 days in Split, longer if you include a day trip to the waterfalls, heritage town of Trogir, island hopping or beach days, just a stone’s throw away!!
Best Time To Book
Booking early in Split gets you better deals and accommodation options. Some boutique hotels have only eight rooms and maybe only one of those has a balcony, so to secure your first choice – lock it in! (If I were going to Split in June, I’d book in January).
Know What To Expect
The old town rooms are often smaller, but you do get original features and charm – and breakfast is always included! If you’re looking for more space and lightness – consider a suite at Porto Nativo or the upmarket Marjan Hill’s Hotel Ambasador or Mirari Boutique.
How To Get Around Split
Split’s old town and the Riva are pedestrianised areas and very walkable, also the neighbourhoods Veli Varos and Meje (Marjan Hill) at the end of the Riva are just as small and easy to walk around – which is why I recommend staying in these spots!
For exploring further afield, you can get boats or ferries from Split’s harbour, and there’s a coach/bus station right opposite. Taxi stands can be found on either side of the Riva – Split is well connected!
WHERE TO STAY IN SPLIT CROATIA: FAQ
Is Split Croatia worth visiting?
Yes – Split is worth visiting, not only is it one of the main hubs for international flights, but also a gateway to the popular islands of Hvar and Korcula! And it’s also home to Diocletian’s Palace and one of the most attractive waterfronts – the Riva, making it well worth a few days’ stay!
What is the best area to stay in Split Croatia?
The best area to stay in Split is the Old Town, it’s beautiful, atmospheric and convenient!
What are the best hotels in Split Croatia?
The best hotels in Split are Hotel Ambasador a 5-star sleek hotel at the end of the Riva and Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia inside the Palace walls.
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?
The best place to stay in Split Croatia for families are the beach areas with hotels and resorts that offer more amenities, such as pools like Le Meridien or Marjan Hill, where you can find villa rentals or family rooms
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!
- Day Trips From Split – heritage town, islands, lagoons & waterfalls worth visiting!
- How To Spend 3 Days In Split – top itinerary planning tips for Split!
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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!