Information
Language
Croatian
Currency
Euro (€)
Time difference
+1hr
Local beer
£2.80
Meal for two
£51.30
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.