Explore Split’s historic center with Art Historian Josipa. Discover Diocletian’s Palace, hidden courtyards, and local favorites on this 2-hour walking tour.
Explore Split’s historic center with Art Historian Josipa. Discover Diocletian’s Palace, hidden courtyards, and local favorites on this 2-hour walking tour.
- Strossmayer Park - Gather in the heart of Strossmayer Park, affectionately called ‘Đardin’ by locals, near the central fountain. The journey through Split’s history begins with the story of water, a life-giving force for the Palace for over 17 centuries.
- Tower 2 of Diocletian’s Palace - Our initial view may not be the most glamorous, but it…
- Strossmayer Park - Gather in the heart of Strossmayer Park, affectionately called ‘Đardin’ by locals, near the central fountain. The journey through Split’s history begins with the story of water, a life-giving force for the Palace for over 17 centuries.
- Tower 2 of Diocletian’s Palace - Our initial view may not be the most glamorous, but it will provide insight into what makes Split uniquely remarkable on a global scale. Prepare to journey back 1,700 years.
- Grgur Ninski Statue - Before entering the Palace through the Golden or Northern Gate, we will visit the 7-meter tall bronze statue of Gregory of Nin, crafted by renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic. Besides touching its toe for good luck, we will uncover fascinating details about this monument, which has become a staple in local culture.
- The Golden Gate - The northern entrance to Emperor Diocletian’s Palace was one of four gateways to the ancient Roman palace. After learning captivating historical details, we will continue our tour along Cardo, the main Roman street running from North to South, towards Peristyle.
- Dioklecijanova - Upon entering the Palace through the Golden Gate, we will walk along the ancient Cardo Maximus, the main Roman street extending from North to South. This historic route leads us directly to our next stop: a hidden garden within Diocletian’s Palace.
- Iron Gate - After exploring the north-western corner of Diocletian’s Palace, we will reach the Iron Gate. Here, you will discover why the Iron Gate was historically considered the city’s ‘platinum’ gate.
- The Peristyle of Diocletian’s Palace - As we walk along the Decumanus, the magnificence of Diocletian’s Palace becomes evident as we near the grand Peristyle. We will explore its origins and history, revealing many of the stories it holds.
- Eastern (Silver) Gate - The secret behind this brief yet significant detour from the Peristyle to the east will be revealed on site.
- Cathedral of Saint Domnius - While at the Peristyle, we’ll explore the history of what was once a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor, now transformed into a Christian cathedral. Your guide will provide all the essential information, along with intriguing historical insights to ignite your imagination. We will not enter the Cathedral as it is a paid site, and this tour does not include entry to any paid sites or museums.
- Temple of Jupiter - This must-see site was once described as ‘one of the most beautiful European monuments’ by Scottish architect Robert Adam in the 18th century. Its allure and charm remain captivating today.
- Let Me Pass (Pusti me da prodjem) Street - At less than 10 meters long and only 57 centimeters wide, this street is recognized as one of the narrowest in the world. However, its significance goes beyond its size. It holds a special place in the hearts of Split’s citizens and is commemorated with a public monument elsewhere in the city.
- Vestibulum of Diocletian’s Palace - Once the entrance to the Emperor’s Quarters, the Vestibule is now a popular open-air photo spot. We will pause here to enjoy the view, take photos, and perhaps experience traditional ‘klapa’ singing, often performed in this acoustically rich setting.
- Diocletian Palace Substructures - Like the locals, we’ll take this ‘shortcut,’ rich in archaeological and historical significance, to reach the Riva waterfront. As we proceed, we’ll notice a transition from the lively Peristyle to the quieter, darker substructures before emerging onto the bustling Riva waterfront. While we won’t explore the substructures fully due to additional admission fees and time constraints, a separate guided visit can be arranged if you’re interested in exploring this remarkable structure further.
- Riva Harbor - As a key meeting place in Split, Riva serves as a street, promenade, and square. We’ll enjoy a leisurely walk along part of it to reach our next stop, the Fruit Square.
- Maketa Grada Splita - At the seaside exit of Diocletian’s Palace Substructures, we will pause at a large model of Split’s Old Town to review the city’s layout and topography. This stop refreshes what we’ve seen on the tour. This is likely our final stop, as exploring the Palace is extensive. If time permits, we may continue. If not, your guide will offer tips for further exploration, including her favorite spots in the city.

- Licensed local tour guide, Josipa, owner of Aspalathos Guided Tours
- Licensed local tour guide, Josipa, owner of Aspalathos Guided Tours
Diocletian’s Palace isn’t a ruin to admire from the outside – it’s a living city where 1,700 years of history hide in plain sight, and the Operator can show you exactly where to look.
Join Josipa, an Art Historian and licensed local guide, on a small-group walking tour through the historic heart of Split.
The Operator will take you through streets where…
Diocletian’s Palace isn’t a ruin to admire from the outside – it’s a living city where 1,700 years of history hide in plain sight, and the Operator can show you exactly where to look.
Join Josipa, an Art Historian and licensed local guide, on a small-group walking tour through the historic heart of Split.
The Operator will take you through streets where Roman walls became part of people’s homes, tracing the layers of history that most visitors walk past without ever noticing.
Enjoy a relaxed and personal atmosphere in a small group of up to 10 people, with plenty of time for questions and conversation.
At the end of the tour, the Operator will share honest local recommendations to help you continue exploring Split like a local.
Every tour is personally guided by Josipa, ensuring a genuine, high-quality, and memorable experience.
- Disclaimer: This tour does not enter any museums or paid sites.
- This tour takes place rain or shine. In case of heavy rain, tour may be postponed.
- The tour will wait for a maximum of 10 minutes beyond the scheduled time before departing from the starting point.
- Pet-friendly: Dogs are welcome! Please contact us before booking to ensure a comfortable experience for everyone. As a dog owner myself, I’ll be happy to have your four-legged companion along.
- Please be mindful that summer temperatures can be high and remember to bring a bottle of water.
- Please note that our tour includes several unavoidable steps. If you have difficulty walking, consider your comfort and safety before booking, and feel free to contact us for further assistance.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.