The second largest city in Croatia, Split definitely has a lot going on. As well as sprawling idyllic coastlines providing the perfect backdrop against which to sunbathe off a hangover, the town centre itself is largely made up of the imposing historical metropolis. Built by Roman Emperor Diocletian that Split once housed over 2,000 people and now is made up of over 200 incredible ruins. Right so there’s some history thrown at you. Now, if you’re not a historical buff never fear, there are plenty of bars, nightclubs, pavement cafes and open air markets to satisfy a variety of tastes.
Area Guide:
The Medieval Quarter (West)- the location of the stunning Diocletian’s palace is also where you’ll find the best bars, shops and cafes.
Veli Varos (North)- to the north of the palace is this quaint neighbourhood, traditionally the home of peasants and fishermen. It’s easy to get lost amongst the winding streets and historical stone churches.
Bars
Inbox (Zoraniceva 61a): for the quintessential summer Split experience, sip a few cocktails in the plunge pool at Inbox as you watch the sun go down. Then get up on the deck for a dance to some old-school pop after dark.
Marcus Marvlvs (Papaliceva 4): Friendly service in an intimate setting, this isn’t a party bar but rather a great cave-like wine bar ideal for a catch up with old friends. Fun place to start the night, or retreat to when (if?) the partying gets too much.
Gaga Cafe Bar (Ulica Iza Loze 5): tucked inside the walls of the palace, drinks are cheap here keeping it busy and popular with both locals and tourists alike. It has that stumbled upon feeling that makes you feel as though you’ve discovered a hidden gem.
Fjaka Cocktail Bar (Bacvice Bay): Rumoured to be the best cocktails in Split, Fjaka also has amazing views over the bay and is the perfect spot to get the evening going over drinks and the sunset.
Charlie’s Bar (Kruziceva 5): Probably the most honest good fun you can have on a night out in Split. Popular with organised bar crawls, they’re well used to a stag/hen crowd and open to loud antics and fancy dress.
Nightlife
Quasimodo (Gunduliceva 26a): Like its namesake, this club is all about inner beauty. Hidden inside a rather dull looking office block, Quasimodo hosts a great indie night with DJs from all over Eastern-Europe. Just check what’s on before you go, as they also hosts spoken word evenings and quiz nights!
Vanilla (Poljudsko šetalište bb): ironically, this club is anything but Vanilla. A fair walk from the city centre (20 mins) is well worth it when you arrive at this 2,000 capacity club by the Poljud stadium. Although inside has a fairly relaxed atmosphere, you’ll need to be smart to get past the doormen and definitely not in fancy dress.
Hemingway(Ulica Mediteranskih igara 5): great cocktails and a cool setting make this one of the most popular clubs in the city. Attracting a youthful crowd with its swimming pool and techno brought to you by both local DJs and talent flown in from Zagreb and beyond.
Klub Kocka: cheap beer and liquors are the main appeal of this offbeat indie venue that attracts young hard-core rockers from all over the city. Not one for a glam night out, but the crowd is welcoming and fairly relaxed about how drunk you are as you stumble through the doors.
Eat like a Local
Villa Spiza: for the local’s favourite dishes nestled in a breathtaking historical setting, Villa Spiza fits the bill. It has a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, with traditional Dalmatian dishes that change daily depending on what’s freshly available that day.
Figa: a cool little cafe/restaurant with tables and chairs tumbling down the stairs and onto the street. Go for great breakfasts and super-fresh seafood.
Galija: the only place to go to in Split for really, really good pizza. As good a stomach-liner as it is a hangover cure.
Sperun: one for your deep inner tourist, Sperun has exposed brick walls with rustic details hanging off every available surface, and incredibly friendly staff decked out in striped sailor t-shirts. The seafood stew isn’t bad either.
Bajamont: if anyone in your group has a slight hipster inclination, this place is sure to appeal. Serving up Brujet (traditional seafood stew with wine and herbs) and not much else, this tiny restaurant uses repurposed sewing machines for tables and doesn’t even have a sign over its entrance. Find it by the smell of seafood and the daily menu written outside in marker pen.
