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About Split and Dalmatian Coast
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Magical national parks, heaps of history, incredible cuisine and vibrant seafront resorts make Split and its surroundings the treasure of the Dalmatian Coast. Its terracotta-topped namesake city is a belter, where you can mix serious history hunting with bar hopping right in the heart of Croatia. Further down the coast, sleepy towns wow with their pebbly shores and crystal-clear waters. Did we mention the incredible islands? Hvar's a glitzy spot, with marble streets, chic bars and trendy beach clubs. Meanwhile, picturesque Brač is a cyclist’s fave that also touts one of the country's best beaches, epic Zlatni Rat.
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Hotels in Split and Dalmatian Coast
Hotel ID
74719
Hotel ID
74718
Hotel ID
71576
Hotel ID
86768
Hotel ID
82050
Hotel ID
86959
Hotel ID
73836
Hotel ID
70985
Hotel ID
77000
Destination Page
https://main--holidays--jet2-plc.aem.page/destinations/croatia/split-and-dalmatian-coast
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Information

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Language

Croatian

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Currency

Euro (€)

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Time difference

+1hr

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Local beer

£2.80

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Meal for two

£51.30

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Average flight time

3hrs

A spectacular setting

Holidays to the Dalmatian Coast offer up unique, dramatic scenery. Rocky mountains and pine-clad hills tumble down towards crystal-clear waters around the Split Area. The Krka River runs through the vibrant lime greens and turquoises of the National Park. You might even spot brown trout, ospreys and golden eagles.

Brilliant beaches

Some of the best beaches in Croatia can be found along the region’s shores, Zlatni Rat included. The soft white shingle down the Makarska Riviera is a particularly sought-after stretch, and there are plenty of tucked-away coves waiting to be uncovered on the nearby islands. Make some time to totally chill out.

A Split city

Split itself gives you the perfect balance of dazzling historic treasures and colourful cosmopolitan life. It’s Croatia’s second-largest city after Zagreb and simply teeming with authentic waterfront restaurants, ancient alleyways, bustling markets and old sights. There’s both a small-town feel and echoes of a bigger modern hub which makes it fab for families too, and it's easy to reach by bus.

Beaches

Around these parts, you’ve got plenty of strong contenders for Croatia’s most beautiful stretch of shore. International yachts are moored along certain coastal spots, while there are brilliant beaches with shallow swells for families. Whether it’s pebbles or sand, you’ll certainly find a place to lay down a towel.
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Sights

History waits around every corner in Split’s Old Town, centred on the ancient palace. You’ll find more Roman ruins further along, plus incredible Renaissance features like striking cathedrals and picturesque main squares. Don’t miss these other architectural treasures, but museums and galleries should rank fairly high on your priorities.
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Activities

A spot of island hopping is ideal if you’ve got the time. Brač is the closest – Supetar on its northern shore is a former fishing village with pretty pebble beaches, while Bol is a top windsurfing spot. Hvar Island is a famous celebrity haunt but popular with families, too.
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Eating and drinking (beaches)

With the Adriatic Sea on the doorstep, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is one of the region’s strongest suits. The fried squid and fish stews are particularly tasty. If you’re big on eating meat, the pašticada is a must-try – you’ll find this beef dish in various eateries.
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Shopping (beaches)

Red coral is readily available along the Croatian coast, and you can buy beautiful jewellery at stalls and shops all over the region. If food’s your thing, make a beeline for Split’s daily market, where you can snap up everything from olive oil to local brandy at bargain prices.
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Nightlife

Nights out in Split usually start in the stylish bars in the Old Town. Some of these are coffee shops by day but crank up the music when the after-dark scene awakens. From about midnight onwards, the crowds drift towards Bacvice with its waterfront nightclubs and buzzing beach parties. But be on the lookout for festivals too, they’re big round these parts.
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FAQs
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What is the best time of year to visit Split and the Dalmatian Coast?

The optimal time to visit the Dalmatian Coast is during the shoulder seasons of May to June and September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for sightseeing, the sea is warm enough for swimming, and the summer crowds have yet to arrive or have started to disperse. July and August are the hottest and busiest months, characterised by high temperatures and a bustling tourist atmosphere.

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Is the Dalmatian Coast suitable for families?

Yes, the region is extremely family-friendly. The Adriatic Sea is generally calm and shallow in many coves, making it safe for children. Many resorts offer family-oriented accommodation, and destinations like Aquapark Aquacolors in Poreč or the zoo in Split provide entertainment. Split’s historic centre is pedestrianised, making it easy to navigate with a pushchair, though some stairs in the palace can be challenging.

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What is the local cuisine like in Split?

Dalmatian cuisine emphasises fresh, local ingredients. Key dishes to try include Peka (slow-cooked meat or seafood with vegetables under a bell-like dome), Black Risotto (cuttlefish ink risotto), and fresh Adriatic fish. You should also sample Pašticada, a slow-roasted beef dish served with gnocchi. For starters, enjoy local pršut (cured ham) and cheese, paired with wine from the Pelješac peninsula.

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Where are the best beaches in Split and nearby?

While Split has a pleasant waterfront, the best swimming spots are often a short walk or bus ride away. Bačvice Beach is a sandy city beach popular with locals. Firule is a pebble beach close to the city centre. For a more secluded and scenic experience, head to Kašjuni or Bene beaches on the slopes of Marjan Hill. Just outside the city, the beaches of Omiš and the island of Brač are exceptional.