Split: Guided Small Group Morning Walking Tour in Split

Key Points

• Short and focused: The tour lasts 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
• Private group option: Available for a more personalized experience.
• Morning convenience: Starting early helps avoid crowds and heat.
• Rich history: Learn about the 1700-year-old city and Diocletian’s palace.
• Not suitable for those with mobility issues: The tour is on foot and not wheelchair accessible.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discover the Historic Old Town of Split

This guided morning walking tour begins at Golden Gate, the northern entrance of Diocletian’s Palace. The tour takes place in the cooler, less crowded early hours, offering a comfortable environment to explore Split’s ancient streets. The private atmosphere ensures an intimate experience with a knowledgeable licensed guide who shares stories about the city’s history.

You’ll pass by notable landmarks such as Gregory of Nin, Silver Gate, and the Old Town Hall, each presenting a glimpse into Split’s past. The route emphasizes less tourist traffic, giving a more authentic feel of the city’s charm. The focus on early hours means you dodge the midday crowds and the heat, ideal for those seeking a relaxed pace.

Exploring Diocletian’s Palace and Its Hidden Cellars

At the heart of this tour is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back over 1700 years. The guide highlights the best-preserved Roman structures, especially the cellars, which are widely recognized for their three-dimensional integrity. These underground chambers reveal how the palace was constructed and maintained over the centuries.

A visit to Diocletian’s mausoleum, which became the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, showcases the fascinating transformation from a Roman mausoleum to the oldest functioning cathedral in the world. The guide shares the tragic and ironical stories behind this transformation, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

Visiting the Iconic Golden Gate and Other Landmark Entrances

The tour’s starting point, Golden Gate, provides a dramatic entrance into the ancient city. From there, the guide leads you through key gateways like the Silver Gate, each with historical significance. These gates once served as crucial entry points for travelers and traders, and today, they frame the bustling Peristil square.

Each stop allows for about 10-minute visits, giving enough time to appreciate the architecture and take photos. The Golden Gate and Silver Gate stand out as impressive examples of Roman and medieval craftsmanship, and their strategic positions highlight the city’s historical importance.

Visiting the Temple of Jupiter and Sphinxes

Among the more remarkable sights are the Temple of Jupiter and the Sphinxes. The temple, although smaller today, was once a grand structure dedicated to the king of gods, reflecting the Roman influence on Split.

The Sphinxes, which are part of the underground cellars, add an intriguing element to the tour. They are widely recognized as the best-preserved Roman sphinx figures in the area. The guide explains their origins and significance, making these stone figures more meaningful during the visit.

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The Peristil and Gregory of Nin Statues

The Peristil square is where the Roman emperor’s influence is most evident. This open space, surrounded by columns, was historically the main hall of Diocletian’s palace. Today, it hosts statues and sculptures, including the Gregory of Nin statue.

The Gregory of Nin monument, dedicated to a 10th-century bishop, stands as a tribute to Split’s medieval heritage. About 10 minutes are spent here, enough to appreciate the craftsmanship and learn about the bishop’s role in the city’s history.

The Significance of the Vestibule and Surrounding Structures

The Vestibule of Diocletian’s Palace is another highlight. It served as the grand entrance hall and now offers insights into Roman architectural techniques. The guide discusses how this space connected various parts of the palace and its purpose through the ages.

This section lasts about 10 minutes, providing a chance to observe the remarkable stonework and understand its historical function in a palace that has stood for centuries.

Visiting Jupiter’s Temple and the Old Town Hall

The Jupiter’s Temple, although relatively small, was once a place of worship dedicated to the Roman god. Its proximity to the other landmarks makes it a key stop, and it offers a glimpse into religious practices of ancient Rome.

The Old Town Hall is the final stop, wrapping up the tour with a look at the civic center of historic Split. The guide shares insights about the building’s architecture and its role in the city’s governance.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This 1.5-hour tour begins at Golden Gate (coordinates 43.5091934, 16.4406795) and can end at the starting point or elsewhere, depending on what suits the group. It includes a live guide in English and is available as a private group option for those seeking a more tailored experience.

The tour operates rain or shine, and luggage or large bags are not permitted, making it suitable for travelers with light belongings. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How This Tour Stands Out in Split

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its focus on early morning hours, which creates a more relaxed and cooler environment for sightseeing. The private guide ensures personalized attention and detailed explanations, especially on the most important Roman structures and medieval landmarks.

The tour’s emphasis on hidden structures, like the cellars, adds a layer of depth to the experience not always available in larger group tours. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility, and full cancellation up to 24 hours in advance provides peace of mind for planning.

Final Thoughts on the Guided Morning Walking Tour in Split

This small-group or private walking tour delivers a focused, insightful look into Split’s ancient origins and its transformation through the centuries. It’s particularly suited for those eager to learn about Diocletian’s Palace and enjoy a less crowded environment early in the day.

While not accessible for those with mobility issues, it offers a rich, manageable glimpse into Split’s Roman and medieval history. The knowledgeable guides and carefully curated stops make this an engaging way to begin exploring the city.

Travelers who appreciate historical detail, personalized attention, and the cooler morning hours will find this tour a valuable addition to their Split itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at Golden Gate within Diocletian’s Palace, located at 43.5091934, 16.4406795.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves walking and is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private?
The private group option is available, offering a more personalized experience.

What’s included in the tour?
A licensed guide in English leads the tour, covering key landmarks and hidden structures.

Are there any restrictions on luggage?
Yes, luggage or large bags are not allowed to be brought on the tour.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine.

How do I reserve my spot?
You can reserve now and pay later via the booking platform, offering flexibility for travel plans.

What should I bring?
Bring ID, as it’s required for check-in. No other special items are necessary.

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