01Your Ultimate Guide to Split's Weather in 2026
Welcome to Split, the vibrant heart of the Dalmatian coast. Understanding its classic Mediterranean climate is key to planning the perfect trip. This guide provides a detailed month-by-month breakdown of weather conditions, sea temperatures, and essential tips for 2026.
Split enjoys over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually. Summers are hot and dry, perfect for beach life, while winters are mild and can be wet, offering a peaceful experience for cultural exploration. The shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—provide a blissful balance of warm sun, comfortable temperatures, and fewer crowds.
Understanding Split's Climate: The Bura and Jugo Winds
Two winds significantly influence Split's weather and local life:
- Bura
- A cold, dry northeasterly wind that primarily occurs in winter. It brings clear skies and a sharp drop in temperature, feeling much colder than the thermometer suggests. When the Bura blows, ferry services to the islands can be canceled. It's known for its powerful gusts, sometimes exceeding 150 km/h.
- Jugo
- A warm, humid southeasterly wind that blows from the Sahara. It often brings overcast skies, high humidity, and rain. The Jugo can make the sea choppy and is associated with a sluggish, sleepy mood among locals, often called 'fjaka'.
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02Split Weather by Month: A Detailed Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect from the weather in Split throughout the year, with specific data to help you plan.
Winter in Split (December, January, February)
Winter is the low season. It's quiet, affordable, and ideal for exploring museums and Diocletian's Palace without the crowds. Expect a mix of sunny days and rainy periods, often influenced by the Bura or Jugo winds.
Weather in December
- Average High
- 11°C (52°F)
- Average Low
- 6°C (43°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 15°C (59°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 105 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 4 hours/day
December brings festive cheer with the Advent market on the Riva promenade. It’s one of the wetter months, so a waterproof jacket is essential. The Bura wind can make it feel much colder, especially near the sea.
Weather in January
- Average High
- 10°C (50°F)
- Average Low
- 5°C (41°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 14°C (57°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 80 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 5 hours/day
January is typically the coldest month in Split. While snow is extremely rare in the city itself, the nearby Mosor and Biokovo mountains are often capped with white. It's a great time for cozying up in local konobas (taverns) and enjoying hearty Dalmatian food.
Weather in February
- Average High
- 11°C (52°F)
- Average Low
- 5°C (41°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 13°C (55°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 70 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 6 hours/day
February remains cool, but you'll notice the days getting longer and the sun feeling slightly warmer. It's still quiet, perfect for budget travelers. The sea is at its coldest, making swimming an activity reserved for the very brave.
Spring in Split (March, April, May)
Spring sees Split awaken. Cafes spill onto the streets, nature blooms on Marjan Hill, and the city prepares for the summer rush. It's a fantastic time for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Weather in March
- Average High
- 14°C (57°F)
- Average Low
- 8°C (46°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 14°C (57°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 70 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 7 hours/day
March is a transitional month. While you can still expect some rain and cool winds, sunny days become more frequent. A light jacket is a must, but you might be comfortable in a t-shirt during a sunny afternoon on the Riva.
Weather in April
- Average High
- 18°C (64°F)
- Average Low
- 11°C (52°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 15°C (59°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 65 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 8 hours/day
April is beautiful. The weather is generally pleasant, and the city isn't yet crowded. It’s perfect for sightseeing and day trips. The sea is still too cold for most people to swim comfortably.
Weather in May
- Average High
- 23°C (73°F)
- Average Low
- 15°C (59°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 18°C (64°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 50 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 10 hours/day
May is arguably one of the best months to visit. It feels like summer but without the intense heat and crowds. The sea temperature climbs to a point where the first brave swimmers venture in. Everything is open, and the atmosphere is vibrant. A day trip to Hvar or Brač is highly recommended, with ferry tickets costing around €5-€7 each way.
Summer in Split (June, July, August)
Summer is peak season. Expect heat, sun, and bustling energy. This is the time for beaches, island hopping, and enjoying Split's famous nightlife. Book accommodation and tours well in advance.
Weather in June
- Average High
- 27°C (81°F)
- Average Low
- 19°C (66°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 22°C (72°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 45 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 12 hours/day
June marks the official start of summer. The weather is consistently warm and sunny, and the sea is perfect for swimming. The crowds are building but are not yet at their August peak. It’s an ideal month for a mix of beach time and exploring.
Weather in July
- Average High
- 30°C (86°F)
- Average Low
- 22°C (72°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 25°C (77°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 25 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 13 hours/day
July is hot, dry, and sunny. The city buzzes with energy, especially during the Ultra Europe music festival. Seek shade during midday (11:00-16:00) and stay hydrated. The sea feels like a warm bath, and beaches like Bačvice (1 km from the center) and Kašjuni (3 km from the center) are packed.
Weather in August
- Average High
- 30°C (86°F)
- Average Low
- 22°C (72°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 26°C (79°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 40 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 12 hours/day
August continues the peak summer heat and is the busiest month of the year. Prices for everything are at their highest. It's essential to book everything far in advance. The UV index is very high, so sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are non-negotiable.
Autumn in Split (September, October, November)
Autumn is the celebrated shoulder season. The sea remains warm, the crowds thin out, and prices begin to drop. The weather is still beautiful, offering a more relaxed vacation.
Weather in September
- Average High
- 25°C (77°F)
- Average Low
- 18°C (64°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 23°C (73°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 70 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 9 hours/day
September is perfection for many. The summer heat subsides to a comfortable warmth, but the sea is still ideal for swimming. The tourist crowds have thinned significantly, making it easier to explore the palace and enjoy a meal on the Riva.
Weather in October
- Average High
- 20°C (68°F)
- Average Low
- 14°C (57°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 20°C (68°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 85 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 7 hours/day
October offers a mix of sunny days and the increasing possibility of rain. The first half of the month often feels like a mild summer, and swimming is still possible. It's a fantastic month for hiking and sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures and golden light.
Weather in November
- Average High
- 15°C (59°F)
- Average Low
- 9°C (48°F)
- Sea Temperature
- 17°C (63°F)
- Average Rainfall
- 120 mm
- Sunshine Hours
- 5 hours/day
November is the rainiest month and marks the beginning of the quiet winter season. Many tourist-focused shops and tours may close. However, it's a great time to experience authentic local life and enjoy significantly lower prices.
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03Local Insider Tips for Navigating Split's Weather
- Respect the Midday Sun: In July and August, do as the locals do and take a break from 11:00 to 16:00. Use this time for a long lunch, a nap, or visiting an indoor museum like the Split City Museum (entrance fee: approx. €5).
- Hike Marjan Hill in the Morning: To get the best views of the city and avoid the heat, start your hike up Marjan Hill before 9:00 AM in the summer. The main viewpoint, Vidilica, is a 1.2 km walk from the Riva.
- Check Ferry Schedules During Wind: If you plan island day trips in the shoulder or winter seasons, always check the Jadrolinija or Kapetan Luka websites on the morning of your travel. Strong Bura or Jugo winds can lead to last-minute cancellations.
- Pack Layers for Shoulder Seasons: For visits in May or October, layers are key. A sunny afternoon can feel like summer, but evenings can be cool, especially near the water. A light jacket or sweater is essential.
- Water Shoes are a Must: Most beaches in Split are pebble, not sand. Water shoes, available for around €10-€15 in local shops, will make your beach experience much more comfortable.
