I think it is safe to say that most tourists who come here, especially on a short holiday, are going to be immersed in the beauty of old town Split. The ancient alleyways of Diocletian’s Palace and the neighbouring area of Old Town are utterly charming in every way.
Diocletian’s Palace
The area of the palace is quite large and is the best preserved ancient Roman palace of its type anywhere in the world. Inside the walls is absolutely full of apartments, business, restaurants and all things catering to tourists.
There is no vehicular traffic allowed into this UNESCO World Heritage site, so walking around can be completely carefree. Every where you look there is stunning ancient beauty. From the town squares to archways over alleys. Medieval wooden doors to underground cellars.
Standing in the middle of the peristyle at Diocletian’s Palace and looking at the Cathedral of St. Domnius is absolutely magical.
Old Town
Part of the city around Diocletian’s palace is also considered ‘Old Town’. I found wandering these alleys and streets just as amazing as I did inside the Palace walls. Here you will see laundry blowing in the breeze from upper windows. Small hidden gardens and little courtyards.
This part of town is also predominately made of limestone and wandering through the cobblestone streets feels like a step back through the ages.
Varos
A neighbourhood right beside Old Town is Varos. It feels a little newer than Old Town but not by much. Here the streets are a little wider in some places and it is hilly. Chock full of old stone houses, some two and three stories high and most with traditional green shutters, it is really picturesque.
I have been very fortunate to be in Split for weeks rather than mere days. It has given me a chance to explore this large and sprawling city. There are many facets but without a doubt the most photographed and charming has to be Old Town.
