8 Places in Split That Only Locals Know

Kastel Gomilica is one of a collection of villages on the edge of Split that retain a historic charm. The Venetian-style architecture and cobbled streets are rarely visited by visitors and you can still find farmers and artisans working in the area. It’s no surprise that this town featured in Game of Thrones as the Free City of Bravos.

Located halfway between Split Airport and the Split Old Town, it’s relatively easy to reach Kastel Gomilica. You can take a water taxi and ride from Split to Marina Kaštela in only 20 minutes.

Pazar Farmers Market is a bustling place where locals come to shop for groceries and artisanal products like cheese, wine, and truffles. Also known as Split Green Market, the market offers fresh fruit, vegetables, cured meats, as well as spirits, beachwear, and some souvenirs.

Due to the location, quite a few visitors do stumble upon the market. Even so, Pazar Market has managed to retain its local charm. It’s one of those old-school places where vendors will try to charm you in any way possible into purchasing their produce.

Ciovo Island is a relaxing getaway located 30 km away from Split’s town centre, just off the coast and close to Split Airport. There are many hidden beaches on Ciovo Island, none more popular than the main resort town of Okrug Gornji on the southern coast. For a day of fun in the sun, head to Laganini Beach Club, which is popular with locals.

You can also head inland to find a collection of traditional Dalmatian villages that feel like a true escape from modernity thanks to the quaint stone churches and family-run tavernas. If you don’t have transport, the easiest way to reach Ciovo is to take a water taxi from Split Old Town.

Vila Dalmacija is a stunning mansion that played a minor role in HBO’s Game of Thrones series but doesn’t get the attention of many other historical landmarks in Split. The result is that you can enjoy this seaside setting without the crowds. Although not open daily, you can still come here to soak up the glamourous surroundings.

Located on a private cove along the coast, Vila Dalmacija is around 15 minutes’ walk from Old Town Split. This is a popular venue for weddings and private parties on weekends, putting the villa off-limits, so it's best to visit during the week.

Republic Square is a large, Venetian-style open space in central Split, which hosts celebrations throughout the year. In summer, there are regular summer concerts that you can join – sometimes for free! The most famous summer festival held here is The Split Festival, which brings together the nation’s finest singers and musicians every July.

It’s worth visiting Split Republic Square at any time as it has a collection of bars and restaurants, plus a lovely fountain in the centre of the courtyard.