Split: Walking Tour of Split with Art Historian

Explore Split’s Historic Center with an Art Historian for $33

The Split walking tour with an art historian offers a deep dive into the city’s fascinating past, all in just 2 hours for $33 per person. Led by Josipa, a knowledgeable licensed guide and owner of Aspalathos Guided Tours, this experience is perfect for those eager to explore Diocletian’s Palace and Split Old Town through a scholar’s lens. The tour emphasizes lesser-known stories and sites, steering clear of tourist gimmicks, and providing authentic insights into Split’s unique UNESCO heritage.

While you won’t visit paid sites inside Diocletian’s Palace, your guide shares detailed stories about these landmarks and recommends how to explore them further on your own. This tour suits travelers who appreciate historical depth, personalized storytelling, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries. It’s especially appealing for those with a passion for art, archaeology, and European history, or anyone wanting a more intimate look at Split than typical group tours.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert-guided walking tour led by art historian Josipa
• Passes all major sights like Peristyle, Jupiter’s Temple, and Riva
• Focus on lesser-known facts, stories, and archaeological insights
• No inside visits to paid sites but includes stories about them
• Tour duration of 2 hours, priced at $33 per person
• Suitable for those interested in history, architecture, and local culture

Starting Point at Strossmayerova Fountain in Split Old Town

The tour begins near the Strossmayerova Fountain in Strossmayer Park, a central spot in Split Old Town. You will recognize Josipa holding a yellow and blue Aspalathos Guided Tours sign. The meeting point is just above the Golden Gates, near Bishop Gregory’s statue, making it easy to locate in the lively city center.

This starting location situates you right at the heart of Split’s historic core, setting the tone for an engaging exploration of Roman, medieval, and modern influences. The tour departs rain or shine, so dressing appropriately for weather and steps is recommended.

Visiting Split’s Major Gates: Golden and Silver

The tour takes you past the Golden Gate, one of the main entrances into Diocletian’s Palace, and the Silver Gate, another key access point. Your guide explains the historical significance of these gateways, their architecture, and how they connected the city in ancient times.

While these sites are popular, the guide shares stories that are often only known among scholars, enriching your understanding far beyond typical sightseeing. These moments highlight Split’s layered history, from Roman origins to medieval adaptations.

Discovering the Peristyle and Jupiter’s Temple

The Peristyle, the grand central square of Diocletian’s Palace, is a highlight of the tour. Here, the guide reveals architectural features and stories behind the space, including its original functions and recent archaeological finds.

Nearby, Jupiter’s Temple offers a glimpse into ancient religious practices. Your guide discusses its history and current interpretation, helping you identify authentic parts of the structure and understand its role in Roman Split.

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Exploring Vestibul and Triklinij: Hidden Architectural Gems

The Vestibul provides a perfect photo stop where the architecture’s craftsmanship becomes evident. Your guide points out details and shares stories about the building’s purpose and evolution.

Triklinij, a lesser-known room or hall within the palace, is another key site. While small, it offers insight into Roman domestic or public spaces, with explanations tailored to your interests and background.

Inside Diocletian’s Cellars

The tour includes a visit to the cellars beneath Diocletian’s Palace, a vast underground area with impressive vaulted roofs. Your guide explains their original functions and recent archaeological discoveries, offering a taste of Roman engineering.

Though you don’t enter paid attractions like the Cathedral or Temple of Jupiter, your guide provides stories and context to help you appreciate these iconic sites. They also share tips on how to visit these later if you wish.

Strolling Along Riva and Fruit Square

The Riva waterfront is a lively hub with cafes and views over the Adriatic Sea, making it an ideal place to absorb local atmosphere. The guide shares insights into Split’s modern life intertwined with its history.

Next, Fruit Square offers a quaint contrast to the bustling waterfront, with its historic buildings and local market feel. It’s a perfect spot for photos and people-watching.

Visiting People’s Square, Fishmarket, and Republic Square

People’s Square acts as a central hub, historically serving as a marketplace and gathering spot. The guide explains its role in Split’s social and political life.

The Fishmarket nearby remains a lively place for fresh seafood and local commerce, while Republic Square features notable government buildings and cultural sites. The tour’s storytelling emphasizes Split’s civic history and urban development.

Personalized Endpoints at People’s Square or Trg Perun

The tour concludes at either People’s Square or Trg Perun, based on your preference and logistics. These spots allow easy access back to your accommodation or further exploration of Split.

The flexible ending makes it convenient for planning your day, whether you want to continue sightseeing or relax at a nearby café.

Practical Details: Group Size, Pricing, and Booking

This tour is available as a small-group or private experience, with Josipa tailoring the route and stories to your interests. The private option offers a fully personalized experience, while the shared tour ensures an intimate atmosphere.

At $33 per person, the tour provides excellent value for expert insight and unbiased storytelling. It’s ideal for those who prefer guided walks without entry fees to paid sites, focusing instead on archaeological and architectural stories.

The tour meets rain or shine, and the only physical consideration is the presence of steps at some sites. Travelers with mobility challenges should contact the provider for assistance.

Why Choose This Tour Over Others in Split

What sets this experience apart is the knowledge and passion of Josipa, who is involved in ongoing archaeological work. Her ability to share lesser-known facts and the latest discoveries offers a unique perspective not found in standard tours.

Plus, the focus on off-the-beaten-path stories and local recommendations gives visitors a genuine sense of Split’s history and local life. The duration of 2 hours makes it a manageable yet enriching activity, perfect for a pre-dinner stroll or a quick but meaningful introduction to the city.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This walking tour is particularly suited for those with curiosity about history, archaeology, and European architecture. It appeals to art lovers and students of ancient cultures eager for detailed stories and authentic insights.

Travelers seeking a personalized, scholarly perspective will find this tour rewarding, especially as it provides recommendations and context to explore Split’s paid sites later on. However, those with mobility impairments should consider the physical requirements before booking.

Final Thoughts on the Split Walking Tour with an Art Historian

The $33 price tag offers excellent value for a guided experience led by a highly knowledgeable expert. The 2-hour duration strikes a good balance, covering essential sights while allowing room for stories and discovery.

Josipa’s engaging storytelling, focus on lesser-known facts, and tailored approach make this tour stand out among Split’s many options. It’s perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, or anyone wanting to see the city through a scholar’s eyes.

While not including entry to major paid sites, the tour provides contextual stories that enhance future visits and deepen understanding of Split’s layered past. This tour is a flexible and insightful way to begin exploring Croatia’s historic jewel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include inside visits to the paid sites?
No, the tour passes all major sites but does not enter paid attractions like the Cathedral or Temple of Jupiter.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

What is the price per person?
It costs $33 per person.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Strossmayerova Fountain in Strossmayer Park in Split Old Town.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it involves several unavoidable steps and may not be suitable for mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, the tour is available as a private experience, allowing for a fully personalized guide.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes recommended; the tour takes place rain or shine.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby