Striking just the right balance between tradition and modernity, Croatia’s second-largest city, Split is where you’ll get to experience the authentic Dalmatian life. It’s a favored destination for its gorgeous setting and history. After having featured as a set location for the popular Game of Thrones series, more travelers have descended on the city in recent times. With a large number of hotels in Split, Croatia to choose from today, it’s hard to believe that not so long ago finding a good hotel in the city was quite a task.
Split traces its history all the way back to the Romans, and one of the world’s most impressive monuments, Diocletian’s Palace is still abuzz with life. You’ll find many other historic gems scattered throughout the city. Stepping into these grand spaces tops the things to do in Split. However, history is not the only feather in its cap. Split enjoys a stunning setting with dramatic coastal mountains providing the perfect backdrop to the turquoise waters of the Adriatic.
Where To Stay In Split
Split’s Old Town is possibly its most popular location due to the UNESCO-listed historic center. The 4th-century Diocletian’s Palace, Pjaca Square, and the ancient Roman walls are just some of the attractions in the area. This central location has plenty of good hotels, especially unique boutique hotels in historic buildings. Some of the best hotels in Split, Croatia can be found here.
West of the Old Town you’ll find Veli Varoš, an area characterized by cobblestone streets, stone walls, and amazing restaurants. It’s a good option for people who want to put some distance between themselves and the bustle of the Old Town.
Another popular destination in Split is Bačvice Beach with its golden sands. It’s just a 15-minute walk from the Old Town so if you choose to stay in the Bačvice neighborhood you’ll get the best of both worlds. Bačvice is where you’ll find the nightlife with beach bars and nightclubs in abundance. Families would be better off at Znjan right near Bačvice Beach, where you’ll find some of the best hotels in Split Croatia on the beach. The Old Town is a little further away from here but you’ll find enough transportation to get around.
Divota Apartment Hotel
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Along the narrow ancient streets of the Veli Varoš neighborhood, you’ll find the Divota Apartment Hotel. The hotel is not confined to one building but spread across several restored stone houses. It’s an easy stroll to the attractions of the Old Town such as Diocletian’s Palace and the St. Dominus Cathedral. The seaside promenade is not too far away either. You’ll also find many restaurants and bars nearby.
The old exterior of the stone houses is in sharp contrast to the modern interiors. An unassuming green door in a rough white stone wall is the main entrance to the building while the reception area feels more like a boutique shop than a hotel lobby. Guest rooms come in all shapes and sizes according to the original house plan. They’re all beautifully designed with sparkling white interiors and hardwood floors. Some rooms have shared terraces or courtyards while the larger apartments have balconies.
You won’t find any extra facilities outside the rooms given the quirky layout of the hotel. However, a spa with a yoga and meditation center has recently been incorporated into the hotel’s plan. Breakfast can be had in the room for an extra fee and a selection of wines can be purchased from the front desk.
Heritage Hotel 19
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A block from the seaside promenade at the edge of the old town, you’ll find one of the best boutique hotels in Split, Croatia, Heritage Hotel 19. What stands out is the elegant interiors in this converted 19th-century heritage property. It’s a more personal space with friendly service, unlike the other chain hotels.
Exposed wooden ceiling beams and stone walls in guest rooms are a nod to the hotel’s origins. Antique-style wardrobes, wooden parquet floors, and carpets enhance the rustic feel of the rooms. However, contemporary furnishings provide the right balance of modernity. Some rooms come with balconies while the Penthouse Suite is a study in good design and luxury. Since this is a small property you won’t find too many extras on site. There’s a lobby bar which doubles up as a breakfast room and a courtyard where guests can relax. You’ll also find a cozy space on the ground floor for a pre-dinner drink. Guests can also use the bicycles at the hotel free of charge.
Atrium Hotel
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Business travelers looking for good hotels in Split, Croatia will find the Atrium Hotel most convenient. Sitting on a busy thoroughfare in the heart of the business district, the hotel puts you in proximity to many restaurants, cafes, and shops. There’s also a casino next door and a shopping mall behind the hotel. However, the hotel is a little away from the tourist attractions in the Old Town. Nevertheless, with Split being a small city, getting to the tourist areas is a short drive or a good walk away. Public transportation is easily available so getting around should not be too much of a problem.
Predictably, the sleek, modern hotel seems more veered towards business travelers and the vibe is more businesslike. Express check-in and express check-out plus a business center make it a convenient business hotel. Guest rooms, however, are bright and spacious compared to the smaller accommodations of the old town. En suite bathrooms are also extremely spacious. Executive Rooms on the seventh floor are fresh of a recent refurbishment and the extra perks that come with them are worth the upgrade. A complimentary breakfast is included with all rooms.
One of the standouts of the hotel is the basement spa with a Finnish sauna, a Turkish steam room, and a range of treatments. There’s also a fairly large lap pool and a good fitness center. Additional amenities include a restaurant, coffee shop/cafe, and a bar. Guests can also request room service if they prefer.
Marvie Hotel
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Projecting itself as the ‘first health hotel’ in Split, the Marvie Hotel & Health caters to those looking to combine a relaxing vacation with dollops of wellness. The Renevie wellness area is where you can lie back and rejuvenate. With an indoor pool, outdoor rooftop pool with sun deck a relaxing spa area with a Finnish sauna, steam bath, and Jacuzzi and experts on hand to provide various other therapeutic services, what more could you want!
Besides all the above, you’ll also find a professionally equipped fitness area for recreation as well as a hall for group programs. A nutritionist is also on hand for those who want to stick to a diet plan, plus a psychotherapist and a dermatologist. With all this on offer, the hotel is also a great winter destination.
Guest rooms are modern with a minimalist style. Sleek black furniture, soft grey carpeting, and floor to ceiling windows add to the comfort of staying here. Some sea-facing rooms come with balconies and are definitely worth the upgrade. All rooms come with a range of amenities with generously sized bathrooms.
The onsite Da’Mar restaurant also reflects the hotel’s focus on health with gluten-free dishes and menus adapted to guests’ dietary needs. The Mareo Bar with its sunny terrace is an ideal place to start the morning with tea or coffee. In the evening the Mareo Pool bar near the rooftop pool is a good place to unwind.
Cornaro Hotel
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Cornaro Hotel is a little over a minute away from the start of the historic Old Town. It’s one of the most conveniently located hotels in Split, Croatia if you want some distance from the crowds and the noisy seafront. However, the hotel is in proximity to a gamut of restaurants and shops so it’s the perfect base for sightseeing and socializing.
The hotel is spread across three adjoining buildings, one which served as the former main Post Office and another that began as a city hospital. There are two entrances and reception areas which make it convenient for checking in and out. Though the hotel has been refurbished, the original elements of the building have been conserved. The facade, arches, and pillars are covered with stone from Brac island. Guest rooms are comfortable with a range of modern amenities. While the Comfort Rooms are quite compact, Superior and Deluxe Rooms are more spacious with an additional sofa bed.
Unlike most of the smaller hotels near the Old Town, the Cornaro Hotel has enough space for a few additional amenities. Two onsite restaurants King Tomislav and Nodilo serve a generous buffet breakfast, with the specialty being Diocletian’s Imperial Breakfast. Nodilo features outdoor tables and a Terrace Lounge for drinks. There’s also a rooftop bar on the sixth floor that offers stunning views and drinks all day. Apart from dining, guests can also look forward to some relaxation at the wellness center. You’ll find a Finnish sauna, steam room, hot tub, and a range of beauty treatments. In addition to this, there’s a secluded roof terrace with Jacuzzis as well as a spacious gym.
Hotel Peristil
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Within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace between the central peristyle, you’ll find the boutique Hotel Peristil. Since the hotel sits plum in the heart of the Old Town you’ll find many cultural attractions within walking distance. If you’re looking for a cozy accommodation in town where you won’t have to dig too deep into your pockets, this hotel is one of the best.
You won’t find any over the top features in this old-fashioned boutique hotel but it’s a homely space. There are only 12 rooms at the hotel which are clean and comfortable. The pedestrian-only area guarantees no traffic disturbances but staying in the Old Town may not be all that peaceful with the church bells.
On the ground floor of the hotel, you’ll find the cafe-cum restaurant, Tiffany. It’s a popular venue with guests and walk-ins. Outdoor tables in the shade of the ancient palace walls create a unique ambiance. Breakfast is served at the table and can be added to the room plan. One reason why the hotel receives many return guests is because of the excellent personalized service.
Heritage Hotel Antique
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There is no dearth of heritage hotels in Split, Croatia, especially inside the Diocletian Palace. The Heritage Hotel Antique is one such hotel in the very heart of the old town, with some of the best views of the historic area. Though the hotel sits in a pedestrian zone, guests’ luggage is transferred to and from the hotel via an electric golf cart. You’ll find quite a few of Split’s attractions just around the corner. The waterfront promenade is less than five minutes away while the port is an easy 10-minute walk.
Though there are quite a few heritage hotels in town only a handful are within the walls of the palace. History seeps into various corners of the hotel including the guest rooms. You’ll see exposed Roman-era stone walls in the stylish guest rooms. Plush wall to wall carpeting or hardwood floors add a touch of finesse to the rooms. Outside the rooms, you won’t find much to keep you busy within the walls of the hotel. Apart from the compact breakfast room and adjacent terrace, public areas are limited.
Hotel Luxe
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Hotel Luxe sticks true to its name with its stylish features and amenities. It’s definitely one of the standout boutique hotels in Split, Croatia with its modern touches and youthful vibe. It’s also one of the more conveniently located hotels for those who are interested in exploring Split’s Old Town. Just a little over a five-minute walk will bring you to some of the best attractions on this side of town. Even though it’s not technically one of the best hotels in Split Croatia on the beach, it’s only a short stroll to the popular Bačvice beach.
If you’re one for traditional decor, the style of this hotel may not go down well with you. Nevertheless, the funky decor is fun and friendly. This vibe spreads out into the guest rooms too. All guest rooms are sea-facing with balconies in a few of the rooms. You’ll find the usual modern comforts that you would look for in an upscale hotel. Breakfast is served in the dining room each morning with a wide variety of mostly cold foods. This is included in the room rate. There’s also a 24-hour lobby bar and a spa plus a small gym with a few machines.
Radisson Blu Resort
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If you’re looking for a funky hotel in the city, the Radisson Blu Resort is your best bet. It stands in stark contrast to some of the historic hotels in Split, Croatia with its glass exterior and hip interiors. You’ll find the hotel in a residential neighborhood between Firule and Znjan, an area that overlooks the sea. The Old Town is a good half hours walk from here but transportation is easily available.
The stylish hotel features interiors that are inspired by the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean. Every floor is a different color and rooms either come in palettes of blue, green, or purple. Floor to ceiling windows make the rooms bright and airy and also offer some astonishing views of the Adriatic. However, all rooms don’t enjoy the same view. While all rooms are outfitted with a wide range of modern comforts, suites come with a free-standing tub in the bedroom. Rooms in the new annex are more pricey but that’s because they’re also more spacious and hip.
You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to dining venues at the hotel, with five restaurants and bars to choose from. There’s a pebble beach across the road from the hotel with sun loungers and water sports, which makes it one of the best hotels in Split Croatia on the beach. However, if you’d rather relax at the hotel you’ll find three pools on site. One on the grounds with a wooden deck and the others in the expansive spa. There’s also a yoga room and gym.
Vestibul Palace
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One of the best boutique hotels in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace is the Vestibul Palace. The hotel took shape by merging three palaces from three different eras. It occupies a small square above the third-century arcaded Roman courtyard and the ancient domed vestibule and is just a five-minute walk to the Old Town. The original wall of the Diocletian’s palace has been merged into the modern design of the hotel. The result is an interesting blend of ancient and modern.
You’ll find sections of the exposed Roman wall in the rooms and spacious suites. Handmade furniture, smart desks housed in original stone alcoves, and a minimalist approach are the hallmark of the guest rooms here. Despite the historic elements, you’ll find several modern amenities in the rooms. Included in the room rate is a good buffet breakfast.
Given that this is a boutique hotel, you’re not going to find many extras at the hotel. However, the onsite restaurant, MAGNUS is a good place to dine. You can enjoy traditional flavors prepared from locally sourced organic ingredients. There’s also a small bar at the Villa Dobric annex with outdoor tables.
Hotel Park
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Split’s oldest hotel, Hotel Park, lies just outside the Old Town directly above Bačvice Beach. The hotel that was built in 1921 recently underwent a massive 10 million Euro renovation to transform it into one of the best hotels in Split, Croatia. Staying here gives you the best of both worlds. A morning walk to the beach followed by an easy stroll to the Old Town.
The Art Deco style hotel is a landmark in the city. At Hotel Park, you can choose from a wide range of room types that include six suites. Some of the suites have an outdoor Jacuzzi with exceptional views. There are also two-story rooms for extended stays. All rooms come with several amenities and also feature comfortable beds.
Though the hotel is in proximity to the beach, you can also unwind at the outdoor pool that has a wooden deck and sunbeds. At the Priska Spa in the basement, you’ll find a Finish sauna, hot tub, and an impressive “saloon room.” A small fitness completes the wellness concept of the hotel. The onsite fine dining Restaurant Split is a popular dining venue with locals and guests as is the Imperial Bar.
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Split, Crotia:
- Dvor – The charming and restaurant offers beautiful views from its position near the coastal path to Bacvice Beach. You can enjoy a contemporary Dalmatian menu with a Mediterranean flair.
- Wine and Food Tasting Walking Tour – Taste traditional Croatian wines and snacks as you learn more about the wine heritage in Dalmatia from a private sommelier.
Recommended Activities In Split, Croatia:
- Krka Waterfalls Tour & Wine Tasting – Take a day off to visit the spectacular Krka National Park and spend some time cooling off at the Skradinski Buk waterfall. It may not be as stunning as the Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the most amazing national parks on earth, but it is a gorgeous place nonetheless. Coupled with this trip you’ll enjoy a wine tasting session at a local winery.
- Diocletian’s Palace – One of the most imposing ancient Roman structures that still exists, is this iconic space near the harbor. It’s not a palace nor a museum but a labyrinthine of streets pulsating with life.