7 of the most picture perfect spots in Split

Feel like you’ve stepped on to a movie set when you visit Split this summer. With its winding picturesque cobbled streets, alcoves, harbours, hidden gardens and panoramic views, there’s little you won’t want to whip your camera out for. Grab your sun hat, strike a pose and capture a moment in time with our guide to the most picture-perfect spots in the Land of a Thousand Islands. 

The beating heart of the city, this open air courtyard is a real sight for sore eyes. Part of the iconic Diocletian’s Palace, the Peristyle was used by the emperor to entertain guests and address the people. Today it is one of the best preserved ancient roman ruins in the world. Its grandeur, columns and arches create the ultimate backdrop for that holiday selfie and if you look up you’ll even see the majestic bell tower of Saint Domnius Cathedral. Take a seat on one of the benches surrounding the space, breathe in the historic atmosphere and listen to the live music that is performed there every evening. Truly a force to be reckoned with, the Peristyle is most definitely one of the best places to take pictures in Split. 

One of the busiest areas in the city, the Riva promenade stretches the length of the old town and is the ideal spot for a relaxing seaside stroll. Lined with waterfront cafes, bars and restaurants, this is a real hub for dining and nightlife. Stand by the water’s edge and pose for a picture in front of the plethora of yachts coming in to dock or capture the islands in the distance on a clear day. Rest your legs on one of the many benches and wait for golden hour to hit for the ultimate holiday Instagram. 

Leave the guide books behind and just spend the day getting lost in the labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets weaving through the old town. Like something straight out of a Game of Thrones, the mysterious tunnels and lanes that lead to hotels, trinket shops, cafes and restaurants are the definition of picturesque. Discover gems down hidden hideaways and explore tons of little squares lined with pretty patio tables and chairs. A must-see when visiting Split, the old town streets will have you running to buy more memory cards in no time. 

A secret green oasis covered in luscious pine trees, Sustipan Park sits on a cliff above the water right next to Marjan. Home to the Middle Aged monastery of St. Stephen, the park served as a burial ground for Croatian Kings and once was the site of the first cemetery outside the city. Wander round the stony path and take in the views of the islands in front of Split and the cityscape from the eastern side of the park. Stroll to the centre of the area and sit on a step of the Classicistic gloriette, the only remaining feature of the ancient cemetery – your camera and your followers, will love it!

Have you really been holidaying in the sun if you don’t have a sandy seaside snap to prove it? Bacvice Beach is the main beach of the city and is only a short walk from the railway station and central ferry port. Definitely one to add to your list of what to do in Split, this beach is kitted out with deck chairs and umbrellas, perfect for cooling off after a day of sight-seeing in the sun. The crystal-clear, glistening, turquoise waters make a dreamy backdrop for your pictures so ditch the socks, dip your toes in the ocean and say cheese. 

At the southern end of the Peristyle, above the basement stairs, the hollow, domed room known as the Vestibule sits majestically and is your next port of call when it comes to picture-perfect spots in Split.  Open to the sky, star gaze through the circular hole in the roof and listen to the klapa group singing acapella in the acoustic rich space. Beautiful from every angle, this piece of ancient architecture is without doubt one of the most photogenic places in the city. 

The lungs of the city, the hills and forests of Marjan have been a protected area of Split since 1964. Escape the hustle and bustle of the streets below and hike up the hill for stunning panoramas and optimum selfie spots. Sit and take in the views over the harbour and old town on one of the many benches scattered throughout the park or indulge your inner culture vulture at one of the two history museums. A symbol of Split and cherished nature reserve, Marjan Hill is perhaps the best place to take photos in Split.

Thinking of flying to Split this season? Be sure to tag us in your photos of the most picture-perfect spots in Split using the hashtag #ryanairstories, for the chance to be featured on Ryanair’s Instagram feed.

Flights to Split

- Lucy Norris