The Split Riviera is a beautiful stretch of coastline located in central Dalmatia, Croatia. It is home to the city of Split, the second largest city in Croatia, as well as a number of smaller towns and villages. The Riviera is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation. It is also a popular destination for history and culture lovers, as it is home to a number of ancient ruins and historical monuments.

Places of interest and activities you can enjoy when going on a villa holiday in the Split Riviera

Diocletian’s Palace (Split): A UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of Split. Explore the ancient Roman palace, wander through its narrow streets, and discover hidden squares, shops, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Peristyle, St. Domnius Cathedral, and the underground cellars.
Old Town Split: The area within and around Diocletian’s Palace is a vibrant hub with historical buildings, museums, galleries, and a lively atmosphere.
Klis Fortress: A historic fortress offering panoramic views of Split, the surrounding islands, and the mainland. It’s also famous for being a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Trogir: A UNESCO-protected medieval town with a beautiful cathedral, Kamerlengo Fortress, and charming narrow streets, located a short drive from Split.
Salona: The ruins of an ancient Roman city near Split, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history.

Marjan Hill (Split): A peninsula offering walking and hiking trails, viewpoints with stunning panoramic views of Split and the islands, beaches, and pine forests.

Paklinski Islands (near Hvar): A stunning archipelago of small, mostly uninhabited islands with beautiful beaches, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters (accessible by boat from Split or Hvar).

Krka National Park: Located a bit further inland, this stunning national park features beautiful waterfalls, including the Skradinski Buk, and offers opportunities for swimming and exploring.

Activities:

Boat Trips and Island Hopping: Numerous boat tours and excursions are available from Split to nearby islands like Brač, Hvar, Vis, and the Paklinski Islands, often including swimming, snorkeling, and exploring charming island towns.
Water Sports: Enjoy swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and windsurfing along the coast and on the islands.
Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails on Marjan Hill, Biokovo Nature Park (further south), and the islands.
Rock Climbing: Biokovo Nature Park offers rock climbing opportunities.
Canyoning and Rafting: The Cetina River near Omiš (south of Split) provides thrilling canyoning and white-water rafting experiences.
Sailing: Rent a sailboat or join a sailing tour to explore the beautiful coastline and islands.
Wine Tasting: Discover local Dalmatian wines by visiting vineyards in the surrounding areas.
Scuba Diving: Explore the underwater world with numerous diving centres offering excursions and courses.
Explore Local Markets: Visit the vibrant Pazar market in Split for fresh produce, local products, and souvenirs.
Enjoy the Riva Promenade (Split): Stroll along the bustling waterfront promenade, lined with cafes, bars, and shops, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Attend Festivals and Events: Check for local festivals, concerts, and cultural events, especially during the summer months.

The Split Riviera offers a fantastic villa holiday experience with a perfect blend of history, culture, stunning natural beauty, and a wide range of activities to suit all interests.

Restaurants which are worth a visit:

The Split Riviera boasts a diverse and exciting culinary scene, offering everything from traditional Dalmatian konobas to modern fine-dining experiences with international influences. Here are some of the best restaurants you can find along the Split Riviera.

In Split:

Konoba Fetivi: (Old Town, Split) A true “local tavern” serving authentic Dalmatian dishes in a cozy, rustic setting. Known for its fresh, generous portions and reasonable prices.
Specialties: Black risotto, grilled meats, seafood, apple strudel.

Ma:Toni: (Near Bačvice Beach, Split) Offers a modern and creative take on traditional Dalmatian cuisine with thoughtfully prepared vegetarian options alongside vibrant meat dishes.
Specialties: Lamb liver stew, gnocchi with duck breast, fresh, seasonal dishes.

Bokeria Kitchen & Wine: (Diocletian’s Palace, Split) A stylish restaurant and wine bar with a beautiful ambiance, serving pan-Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Extensive wine list.
Specialties: Oxtail risotto, lamb shank, octopus dishes, homemade prosciutto.

Restaurant Dvor: (East of Bačvice Beach, Split) Features a stunning seafront location with a beautiful terrace. Offers a modern take on traditional dishes, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, especially seafood in the summer.
Specialties: Fresh fish, seafood risotto, lamb dishes, truffle potatoes.

Šug: (Split) This restaurant’s name means “sauce” in Dalmatian, highlighting the importance of flavor. They elevate traditional dishes with creative twists and modern techniques.
Specialties: Carpaccio with smoked swordfish, lobster a la Šug, steak.

Zrno Soli: (Split Marina) A fine-dining restaurant with a nautical theme and views of the marina. Known for its fresh seafood, creative cooking, and excellent wine list.
Specialties: Adriatic squid dishes, lobster, black pig steak.

Villa Spiza: (Old Town, Split) A charming, small restaurant tucked away in an alley, serving traditional Dalmatian dishes with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Known for its cosy atmosphere and value for money. Specialties: Daily specials based on fresh market finds.

Basta Gourmet Bar: (Split Waterfront) Offers Italian, Mediterranean, and European cuisine with amazing views of the riviera. Particularly popular for their pizzas and calzones.

In Trogir (a short drive from Split):

Restaurant Mare: Modern Cuisine
Il Ponte: Contemporary

A Bit Further (but worth the trip for seafood lovers):

Konoba Nikola (Stobreč, near Split): A family-run tavern outside the city centre, renowned for its incredibly fresh and simply prepared seafood. Specialties: Lobster pasta, grilled fish, seafood risotto.

Details correct as at 15/03/2025. These restaurants are neither endorsed nor recommended by Villa Select.

The best beaches to enjoy in the Split Riviera

Bačvice Beach (Split): A popular sandy beach known for its shallow waters and the birthplace of the unique Croatian game “Picigin”.
Žnjan Beach (Split): A large pebble beach with various facilities, including bars, showers, and water sports.
Kašjuni Beach (Split): A beautiful pebble beach located beneath Marjan Hill, offering clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere.
Bene Beach (Split): A beach on Marjan Hill surrounded by pine forests, offering shade and tranquility.
Zlatni Rat Beach (Bol, Brač Island): The iconic Golden Horn is a unique sandy spit that changes shape with the wind and currents (easily accessible by boat from Split).