Split Croatia for Couples

Welcome to Split, Croatia, a romantic haven that seamlessly blends ancient history, breathtaking natural beauty, and culinary delights to create the perfect setting for a dreamy getaway. Split’s charm lies in its remarkable Roman ruins, most notably the stunning Diocletian’s Palace. Imagine strolling hand in hand through the labyrinthine streets of this 1,700-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site, where each corner reveals new secrets from the past, offering a glimpse into the timeless allure of this city.

Beyond its historic treasures, Split boasts some of the Adriatic’s most inviting beaches, where you can soak up the sun and swim in crystal-clear waters. Picture yourself indulging in fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant, savoring the catch of the day while sipping on locally-produced wine, adding an exquisite touch to your romantic evenings. Split’s unique blend of history, coastal beauty, and culinary delights is a captivating invitation to explore, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking an unforgettable romantic escape.

Below you’ll find helpful tips and recommendations for where to stay, what to do and where to eat.

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HELPFUL CROATIA TRAVEL TIPS

I recommend you learn as much as you can about the city prior to arriving. Visit your city’s book stores and libraries, or search online for helpful books and articles to obtain insight as to the culture, currency, history, famous sights, etc.

What I personally did for this particular trip:

1. Read Rick Steve’s Croatia book before going. I highlighted the places I wanted to visit the most to make it easy for me to quickly identify these when opening the book in Dubrovnik. And yes, I brought the book with me on our trip, as I love having an easy access reference guide when touring around.
2. Read forums or blog posts on Dubrovnik travel for unique insights and travel pointers. This tactic can give you great ideas of things to do that you normally wouldn’t find in travel books. People love to share their own personal travel adventures online, and a lot of readers will jump in and add their own experiences in the comments section, too; not only is it fun to read, but you can get a better idea of what to expect and also set realistic expectations for yourself. I have personally found lots of “gold” in forums.

Something important to mention about Split: culture shock!

Croatian culture is characterized by a reserved and slightly more formal demeanor, often appearing colder or less overtly friendly. While Croatians are known for their hospitality and warmth once you break through their initial reserve, it’s common not to receive the same level of immediate warmth or frequent smiles that may be expected in some other countries. This reserved nature can be attributed to a strong sense of privacy and respect for personal boundaries…which might be even more pronounced now, due to the large waves of visitors that Croatians are experiencing during the high season (Summer) with the popularity of Games of Thrones (many episodes of the series were filmed in Croatia).

 

HOTEL

We stayed at an upscale hotel in the middle of the Historic Old Town: Cornaro Hotel.

Probably one of my favorite hotels to date. Not because of it’s grandeur or style, but because of its comfort, amenities, service and space. I love having a large room and bathroom when traveling, and in Europe that is hard to find. Also, the amenities were top notch and everything felt very new and clean. The gym was fantastic, the spa was unreal (I had a pedicure and a massage for my birthday and they were both truly incredible) and the terrace is something of dreams. Also, the location is extremely central, making it an easy walk to Old Town and the port. The breakfast was probably one of the best we’ve seen.

Highly recommend this hotel if you are thinking of going to Split.

 

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THINGS TO DO

Split is much larger than Dubrovnik and is therefore more spread out; it is Croatia’s second largest city, after its capital, Zagreb. And just like in Dubrovnik, there is much beauty to explore and take in. Below you’ll find a combination of adventure and relaxation when it comes to things to do, perfect for couples who are seeking romance, excitement and a little R&R while visiting Split for the first time.

1. Explore the Historic Old Town

The Historic Old Town of Split is like stepping into a real-life time machine, where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Wandering through its cobblestone streets, you’ll discover hidden squares, centuries-old buildings, and vibrant markets, all surrounded by the impressive walls of Diocletian’s Palace. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the past while enjoying the buzz of contemporary life, from bustling cafes to art galleries tucked into ancient stone walls. A lively atmosphere that’s irresistible to any traveler seeking an authentic and captivating experience.

2. Get Pampered 

Indulge in the ultimate relaxation at the 5-star hotel spa of Cornaro Hotel in the heart of Split’s Historic Old Town. With luxurious treatments, serene ambiance, and skilled therapists, this spa experience will transport you to a state of pure bliss, leaving you feeling pampered, rejuvenated, and ready to embrace the rich cultural adventures that await you in this enchanting city.

3. Go on a Winemaker’s Wine Tour

Embark on a captivating 5-hour Winemaker’s Tour in Split’s historic Putalj Winery. There you’ll savor exquisite organic wines crafted by generations of skilled winemakers. As you bond with fellow travelers, take in the mesmerizing ocean vistas from the winery, and relish the delectable cheese and olive oil pairings thoughtfully curated to complement your wine tasting. You’ll find yourself immersed in an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich traditions and flavors of Croatia’s winemaking heritage.

4. Take a Ferry to Hvar

A day trip from Split to Hvar is just a short 55 minute ferry ride away, transporting you to a whole new world of exploration. In Hvar’s picturesque town, you’ll be enchanted by its timeless charm, and seaside restaurants will beckon with fresh seafood delights, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Adriatic while gazing out at the mesmerizing ocean vistas.

5. Go Linen Shopping

Exploring local stores in Croatia unveils a treasure trove of beautifully handcrafted linen pieces, reflecting a blend of Croatian and Italian craftsmanship. Linen, the ideal summertime attire, not only keeps you cool in the Mediterranean sun but also serves as a unique way to connect with locals and bring back exquisite souvenirs that encapsulate the essence of your Croatian journey.

 

WHERE TO EAT

1.  Bokeria Kitchen & Wine (Dinner)

Bokeria Kitchen & Wine is located in the heart of Split’s Historic Old Town. It is a stylish eatery that offers international bar bites, entrees and drinks. We loved their burrata salad, their bread with olive oil and their pastas. It’s also a popular spot to grab brunch, but we loved it for an early dinner before a romantic night stroll.

2. Makarun (Dinner) 

Makarun is a locals’ favorite, not only due to its superb service and ambiance, but also because of its outstanding culinary experience. Quiet, tucked away from the hustle and bustle, this little nook of heaven will certainly deliver on both food and drink. A great place to celebrate romance.

3. Konoba Laganini (Dinner) 

Konoba Laganini is a beautiful local restaurant where its culinary traditions are deeply rooted in history, yet their innovative approach brings excitement to every dish. They tailor their menu to accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions, offering great options for vegetarians and specialties for those with gluten, lactose, or nut sensitivities. Food is fresh, bright and delicious, a must try.

4. Konoba Fratelli (Lunch or Dinner) 

Konoba Fratelli was probably my favorite restaurant of the entire trip, and that is saying a lot. The location is quiet, it is laid back and casual, and the menu offers something for everyone. Their entrees are light yet incredibly flavorful, and it feels as if they make everything with the freshest of ingredients.  I was over the moon with my grilled sea bass that came with roasted vegetables and potatoes; still dreaming about that dish. Absolutely recommend this place.

5. Gelateria Emiliana (Dessert) 

Gelateria Emiliana is where it’s at for gelato in Split. The lines are long, but they move fast, so don’t let this deter you. You’ll have plenty of time while waiting in line to look online and select your flavor; they don’t allow tasting, but you can get pretty accurate descriptions and suggestions on Gelateria Emiliana’s Google Map reviews. They also only take cash, so make sure you have some on hand. You can’t go wrong with any flavor. We were here almost every day, we couldn’t get enough.

6. Hotel Cornaro’s Breakfast Buffet (Breakfast)

Hotel Cornaro has the best breakfast buffet of all the land. It is simply fantastic. The actual buffet spread is very complete, with both sweet and savory options, lots of fresh fruits, salads, vegetables, eggs dishes, local pastries, yogurts, cheeses, you name it. And their made-to-order menu is also fabulous. It is all included if you pay for the breakfast buffet, so go take advantage of it. Service is top notch, too.

 

Hope you found this guide insightful, and that you’re able to use some of these tips for when you’re planning your own trip to beautiful Split, Croatia!