Plan Your Trip to Split
How to Get to Split, Croatia
Most guests will travel from Cincinnati (CVG). There are two main ways to reach Croatia: 1. Fly directly from CVG to Croatia (via Europe). Convenient but usually more expensive since flights from Cincinnati to Europe are limited. 2. Start from a bigger U.S. hub, like Chicago (ORD). This is often cheaper. You can rent a car or take a short flight from Cincinnati to Chicago, then fly to a major European city such as Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or Paris. From Europe, most flights land in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. From there you can: * Take a domestic flight to Split (about 45 minutes) with Croatia Airlines or Ryanair. * Rent a car and drive (about 4.5 hours). * Take a bus (about 5 hours). * Train is possible but not recommended. Depending on your route, you may also find seasonal flights directly into Split Airport (Resnik) from Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, or Paris, allowing you to skip Zagreb. We would recommend booking the flights at least 6 months before the travel.
Practical Info
Currency – Croatia uses the euro (€). Most places accept cards, but it’s useful to have some cash for markets, taxis, or small shops. Language – Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in Split, especially in tourist areas. Weather – Warm and sunny in September, but bring light layers for evenings. Local transportation – Easy to walk in the center, Uber/Bolt are available (don't use local taxis), as well as local buses (get app on the phone "Promet Split" for tickets). Tipping – Not required, but rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated. Wi-Fi and SIM cards – Free Wi-Fi is common in cafés and hotels. eSIMs or local SIMs (Hrvatski Telekom, A1, Telemach) are easy to buy.
Money Exchange Offices
Option 2: Trumbićeva obala 12, Split, 10000, Croatia Places to exchange your currency
Babysitting/Nanny Options
Our wedding will be an adults-only celebration. For your convenience, we’ve listed babysitting and nanny resources below that you’re welcome to explore for the wedding day or during your visit. Option 1: Matija Mladin www.poppins-childcare.eu Email: info@poppins-childcare.com Phone: +385 98 170 1317 (WhatsApp) Cost: between 20- 22 euro per child, per hour Speaks English Option 2: Debora Pedroni Email: debypedroni@hotmail.com Phone: +385 955631768 Cost: around 8-10 euro per child, per hour She is more flexible and cheaper because she doesn't work through any agencies. Speaks English and Spanish
Diocletian's Palace
Diocletian’s Palace, built in the 4th century by the Roman emperor Diocletian, is the heart of Split and one of the best-preserved monuments of Roman architecture in the world. Today, its ancient walls are alive with cafés, shops, and local life, blending history and modernity in a unique way.
Saint Domnius’ Cathedral
Located inside the palace, this is one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use. Climbing the bell tower rewards you with breathtaking views of Split’s red rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and nearby islands.
Riva Promenade
The palm tree–lined waterfront is the perfect place for a morning coffee, evening stroll, or simply people-watching. It’s the heart of the city and always full of energy.
Marjan Hill
Just a short walk from the city center, this green oasis offers hiking and walking paths with panoramic viewpoints. It’s a favorite spot for locals to relax and a great place for guests to capture photos of the entire city and coastline.
Top 5 Beaches in Split
1. Bačvice Beach - The most famous sandy beach in Split. - Shallow water, perfect for swimming and playing *picigin* (a traditional ball game). - Very lively with cafés, beach bars, and nightlife. 2. Kašjuni Beach - Scenic pebble beach at the foot of Marjan Hill. - Crystal-clear water, great for swimming and relaxing. - A bit more peaceful, but with a stylish beach bar. 3. Žnjan Beach - Long pebble stretch east of the center. - Family-friendly with promenades, cafés, and kids’ play areas. - Great for a relaxing afternoon by the sea. 4. Bene Beach - Hidden inside Marjan Hill’s pine forest. - Natural shade, sports courts, and a local restaurant. - Ideal for families and anyone wanting a quieter spot. 5. Jadran Beach - Centrally located, close to the ACI Marina. - Concrete sections with clear, calm waters. - A favorite among locals, with easy access to cafés and bars nearby.
Green Market
Right outside the palace walls, this bustling open-air market offers fresh produce, cheeses, cured meats, and local specialties. It’s a colorful and authentic taste of Dalmatian life.
Day Trips to the Islands
Split is the gateway to some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Ferries and speedboats make it easy to visit Hvar (nightlife and lavender fields), Brač (home to Zlatni Rat, one of Europe’s most famous beaches), and Vis (secluded charm and the Blue Cave).
Food recommendations
Basta – Waterfront pizza, cocktails, and lounging on the Riva. Bokamorra – Gourmet pizzas and craft cocktails with Italian flair. Chops Grill – Modern steakhouse, famous for top-quality meats. Dvor – Romantic terrace with Adriatic views and refined cuisine. Adriatic Grašo – Marina views with fresh seafood and fine dining. Zrno Soli – Michelin-recommended Mediterranean by the sea. Bokeria – Chic wine bar in Diocletian’s Palace, buzzing atmosphere. Fife – Local konoba with generous Dalmatian comfort food. My Kebab Split – Late-night favorite for quick, tasty kebabs. Focaccina – Fresh focaccia sandwiches, perfect for a quick bite. Kantun Paulina – Iconic stand, famous for ćevapi in lepinja bread. Ciribiri Bela – Cozy bistro with brunch and Mediterranean flavors. Gelateria Emiliana – Beloved spot for authentic Italian-style gelato.
Supermarkets in Split
Konzum – Croatia’s biggest supermarket chain, found all over Split. Tommy – Local Dalmatian chain, very popular and well-stocked. Studenac – Small neighborhood shops, convenient for quick stops. Spar & Interspar – International-style supermarkets with a wide selection. Lidl – Budget-friendly option with lots of local and imported products.
Shopping Malls in Split
Mall of Split – Large modern shopping center with international brands, restaurants, and entertainment. City Center One – Popular mall with a mix of shops, cafés, and a cinema. Joker Mall – Smaller but central, easy to reach from the city center with plenty of stores and food options.
Fun Extras
Local drinks – Try rakija (fruit brandy), Croatian wines, and beers like Ožujsko, Karlovačko or Somersby. Souvenirs – Olive oil, lavender, Pag cheese, Croatian wines, or handmade jewelry from markets. Cultural experiences – Klapa (traditional a capella singing), summer concerts, or a football match at Hajduk Split’s stadium. Photo spots – Bell Tower of St. Domnius, Marjan Hill viewpoints, Riva at sunset, and Peristyle Square.
Emergency and Practical Information
Emergency number – Dial 112 anywhere in Croatia for police, fire, or medical emergencies. Operators usually speak English. Hospitals – The main hospital in Split is KBC Split (Firule Hospital), about 10 minutes from the city center. Smaller clinics and urgent care centers are also available. Pharmacies – Marked with the green cross and the word “Ljekarna.” They are easy to find in the old town and around the Riva. For urgent needs, there is always one pharmacy on night duty (the location is posted on the door). Medical services – If you need a doctor for a minor issue, look for “Dom zdravlja” (health center). Many hotels also have a doctor on call. Police – The main police station is located at Trg Hrvatske Bratske Zajednice, not far from the city center. Safety – Split is generally very safe, but as in any tourist city, keep an eye on bags and belongings in crowded areas.
Helpful Croatian Words and Phrases
Hello – Dobar dan Hi – Bok Goodbye – Doviđenja Thank you – Hvala Please – Molim Yes – Da No – Ne Cheers – Živjeli Good morning – Dobro jutro Good night – Laku noć How are you? – Kako si? Beautiful – Lijepo Beach – Plaža Wine – Vino Water – Voda Coffee – Kava