Best Apartments in Split, Croatia: The 2026 Guide

Your Ultimate Guide to Accommodation in Split, Croatia (2026)

Split, the vibrant heart of the Dalmatian coast, offers a unique blend of ancient history and modern Mediterranean life. Choosing the right place to stay is crucial for your experience. This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the best apartments, neighborhoods, and accommodation options in Split, optimized with factual data to help you plan your perfect Croatian getaway.

Where to Stay in Split: A Neighborhood Breakdown

Split's neighborhoods each offer a distinct character. Your choice will depend on your travel style, budget, and priorities.

Diocletian's Palace & Old Town: The Historic Heart

Staying within the walls of a 1,700-year-old Roman palace is a truly unique experience. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage site, bustling with restaurants, bars, and historical landmarks at every turn.

• Best for: History enthusiasts, first-time visitors, couples.
• Pros: Unbeatable atmosphere, all major sights are within a 5-minute walk, vibrant nightlife.
• Cons: Can be noisy at night, apartments may be smaller and require climbing stairs, no direct vehicle access.
• Average Price (1-bedroom apt): €150 - €300 per night in high season (June-August).
• Insider Tip: Look for apartments with double-glazed windows to minimize noise from the bustling streets and squares below. Many listings are on the 3rd or 4th floor with no elevator, so check accessibility if that's a concern.

Varoš: Authentic Charm West of the Palace

Just a 5-minute walk west of the Riva promenade, Varoš is one of Split's oldest neighborhoods. It features winding stone streets, traditional Dalmatian houses, and a more relaxed, local feel.

• Best for: Travelers seeking authenticity, quiet evenings, and proximity to Marjan Hill.
• Pros: Quiet and charming, feels like a local village, still only a 5-10 minute walk to the Old Town.
• Cons: Hilly terrain with many steps, fewer direct amenities than the palace.
• Average Price (1-bedroom apt): €120 - €220 per night.

Bačvice: Sun, Sand, and Families

Home to Split's most famous sandy beach, Bačvice is the go-to neighborhood for families and beach lovers. It’s located about 1km (a 10-15 minute walk) southeast of the Old Town.

• Best for: Families with children, beach-goers, groups.
• Pros: Proximity to the only sandy beach in central Split, many cafes and restaurants, relatively flat terrain.
• Cons: Can be crowded in summer, nightlife can be loud near the beach clubs.
• Average Price (2-bedroom apt): €180 - €350 per night.

Meje & Marjan Hill: Luxury and Nature

Situated on the southern slopes of Marjan Hill, Meje is Split's most exclusive residential area. It offers stunning sea views, luxurious villas, and direct access to the nature trails of Marjan Park.

• Best for: Luxury travelers, nature lovers, those seeking privacy and views.
• Pros: Spectacular sea views, spacious and modern apartments/villas, quiet and green.
• Cons: A 20-30 minute walk to the Old Town, requires a car or taxi for convenience, higher price point.
• Average Price (Luxury apt/villa): €250 - €600+ per night.

Radunica & Lučac: A Local Vibe Close to Everything

Located east of the palace, these historic neighborhoods offer a similar feel to Varoš but are closer to the main bus station and ferry port. Radunica is famous for its annual street festival, "Dani Radunice."

• Best for: Travelers wanting a local feel with excellent transport links.
• Pros: Good value for money, 5-10 minute walk to the Old Town and transport hubs, authentic atmosphere.
• Cons: Some streets can be narrow and challenging for parking.
• Average Price (1-bedroom apt): €110 - €190 per night.

Types of Accommodation in Split

Beyond location, the type of accommodation you choose defines your stay. Split offers everything from opulent heritage hotels to budget-friendly private rooms.

Luxury Apartments & Heritage Hotels

These are often located within the Palace walls, blending ancient Roman architecture with 5-star amenities. Expect exposed stone walls, designer furniture, and personalized service.

• Price Range: €250 - €500+ per night.
• Key Features: Concierge service, premium linens, often include breakfast, prime locations.
• Examples: Palace Judita Heritage Hotel, Hotel Vestibul Palace.

Mid-Range & Boutique Apartments

This is the most popular category, offering the perfect balance of comfort, location, and price. These are typically modern, well-equipped apartments run by private owners or small agencies.

• Price Range: €120 - €250 per night.
• Key Features: Fully equipped kitchen, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, often a small balcony. Most hosts provide check-in between 14:00 and 22:00.
• Insider Tip: Look for the term "newly renovated." Many property owners have upgraded older stone houses into fantastic modern rentals.

Budget-Friendly Studios & Rooms ("Sobe")

For solo travelers or those on a tight budget, studios or private rooms offer great value. A "sobe" is a private room, often with a shared or private bathroom, but no kitchen facilities. A studio apartment will include a small kitchenette.

• Price Range: €70 - €120 per night.
• Key Features: Basic but clean, excellent for a short stay, often located just outside the main tourist core in neighborhoods like Varoš or Lučac.

Insider Tips for Booking Your Split Accommodation

Leverage local knowledge to find the best stay and avoid common pitfalls.

1. Book Well in Advance for Summer

For travel between June and September, it is essential to book your accommodation 4 to 6 months in advance. The best-located and highest-rated apartments are often fully booked by March.

2. Air Conditioning is Non-Negotiable

Summer temperatures in Split regularly exceed 30°C (86°F). Ensure your chosen apartment explicitly lists air conditioning (`klima uređaj` in Croatian) as an amenity. It is not always standard in older buildings.

3. Parking is a Major Challenge

If you are renting a car, do not book an apartment inside Diocletian's Palace or the pedestrianized parts of Varoš and the Old Town. There is no parking. Look for accommodation in Meje, Bačvice, or further out that specifically offers a private parking spot. Public parking costs approximately €1-€2 per hour.

4. Understand the Terminology: "Apartman" vs. "Sobe"

• Apartman: An apartment with a private kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
• Sobe: A private room, similar to a hotel room but in a private building. It may have an ensuite bathroom but will not have a kitchen.

5. Check the Floor and Elevator Access

Many beautiful apartments in the Old Town are on the 3rd or 4th floor of historic buildings with no elevator (`lift` or `dizalo`). Property listings are usually clear about this, but it's crucial to check if you have mobility issues or heavy luggage.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Split Base

Split's accommodation landscape is as diverse as its history. For a truly immersive experience, stay within the Old Town or the charming streets of Varoš. For a relaxing beach holiday, Bačvice is the undeniable choice. For luxury and tranquility, the hills of Meje await. By defining your priorities and booking in advance, you can secure the perfect apartment that will serve as your home base while you explore the spectacular Dalmatian coast.