Split Wheelchair Accessibility Guide 2026: An Expert's Plan

Is Split, Croatia Wheelchair Accessible? An Honest Assessment

Split is a city of stunning contrasts, where a 1,700-year-old Roman palace meets the glittering Adriatic Sea. For a wheelchair user, this contrast defines the experience. The honest answer is that Split is a mix of excellent accessibility and significant challenges. While you cannot expect seamless, barrier-free travel everywhere, a fantastic and memorable trip is absolutely possible with careful planning.

The ancient heart of the city, Diocletian's Palace, is a UNESCO World Heritage site built long before accessibility was a concept. You will encounter uneven cobblestones, narrow passages, and countless stairs. However, the city has made efforts to improve access where possible.

In stark contrast, the modern parts of Split are far more accommodating. The magnificent Riva seaside promenade is perfectly flat and smooth. The newly developed Žnjan beach area is a model of modern accessibility. Newer public transport is equipped with ramps, and many hotels now offer fully accessible rooms. This guide provides the detailed, factual information you need to navigate the challenges and enjoy the accessible wonders of Split in 2026.

Navigating Diocletian's Palace in a Wheelchair

Exploring a Roman palace in a wheelchair sounds daunting, but key parts are surprisingly accessible. The key is knowing where to go and what to expect.

The Best Accessible Entrance: The Brass Gate

The most important piece of information for any wheelchair user is to enter the palace from the south. The Brass Gate (Porta Aenea) opens directly from the middle of the Riva promenade and provides level, stair-free access into the Palace Cellars (Podrumi). This is your gateway. The other gates—the Golden Gate (North), Silver Gate (East), and Iron Gate (West)—all involve stairs and are not suitable for independent wheelchair access.

• Location: Southern wall of the palace, facing the sea.
• Access: Ramp leading from the Riva Promenade.
• Cost: Free to enter the palace grounds.

What You Can See: The Palace Cellars & Main Paths

Once inside through the Brass Gate, you are in the Diocletian's Palace Cellars. This vast subterranean complex is one of the best-preserved ancient complexes of its kind and is almost entirely accessible. The floors are mostly smooth stone, and the main hall is wide and flat. It's a cool respite from the summer heat and a fascinating historical site. An entry fee of approximately €7 is required to explore the full museum section of the cellars.

From the cellars, a large ramp leads up into the Peristyle, the central square of the palace. While you cannot access the upper colonnades or the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (which has a large flight of stairs), you can experience the grandeur of this open-air imperial court from its base.

The two main Roman streets, the Cardo (north-south) and Decumanus (east-west), intersect at the Peristyle. These main thoroughfares are wide enough for a wheelchair, but be prepared for a bumpy ride on authentic Roman cobblestones. A power chair or a manual chair with sturdy wheels is highly recommended.

What to Avoid: Stairs and Narrow Alleys

Many of the palace's most famous sights are, unfortunately, not accessible.

• Cathedral of Saint Domnius & Bell Tower: Both require climbing significant flights of stairs.
• Temple of Jupiter: Accessed via a narrow, stepped alley.
• Vestibule: This impressive domed entrance hall to the imperial apartments is at the top of a flight of stairs from the Peristyle.
• Most small alleys: The charming, narrow alleyways that crisscross the palace are often stepped or too tight to navigate comfortably.

Insider Tip: Use Google Maps Street View before your trip to virtually 'roll' through the main streets of the palace. This will give you a realistic idea of the surface texture and width of the paths you plan to take.

Wheelchair-Friendly Beaches in Split

Enjoying the Adriatic is a must-do in Split, and thankfully, the city offers excellent accessible beach options.

Žnjan Beach: The Top Choice for Accessibility

Located about 3.5 km east of the Old Town, the Žnjan Plateau has been extensively redeveloped into a modern, accessible beachfront. This is, without a doubt, the best beach choice for wheelchair users in Split.

• Key Features: Wide, paved promenades, multiple access ramps leading down to the pebble beach, and several dedicated aqua lifts (sea access lifts) for transferring into the water.
• Facilities: Numerous beach bars and cafes along the promenade have ground-level, accessible terraces and accessible restrooms. Parking is also available nearby.
• Getting There: The most reliable way is via an accessible taxi. Alternatively, city bus lines 8 and 17, which often use low-floor buses, service the Žnjan area.

Bačvice Beach: A Possible but Tricky Option

Bačvice is Split's most famous city beach, known for its sand and the game of picigin. It's much closer to the center, only a 1 km walk from the ferry port. While it's often touted as accessible, the reality is more complex.

• Access: There is a long concrete path that leads onto the sand and gets you close to the water's edge. However, there is no ramp or lift directly into the sea.
• Water Wheelchair: During the peak summer season (typically June 15th - September 15th), the city often provides a special floating water wheelchair, available for free use. You must inquire with the on-duty lifeguards. Its availability can be inconsistent, so it's wise not to rely on it solely.
• Verdict: If you are with a companion who can assist with a transfer or if the water wheelchair is available, Bačvice can work. For independent access, Žnjan is far superior.

Accessible Transportation in Split

Getting around Split requires some planning, but accessible options are available.

Public Buses: Look for the Blue Sticker

Split's public bus company, Promet Split, operates a fleet that includes many modern, low-floor buses. These are identifiable by the international wheelchair symbol (a blue sticker) near the middle doors.

• How it Works: The driver must manually deploy a ramp. Position yourself visibly at the bus stop and signal to the driver. It's best to board through the middle doors.
• Routes: Not all routes use accessible buses at all times. Routes serving major hubs like the ferry port, bus station, and areas like Žnjan are your best bet. Check the Promet Split website for information, though it can be difficult to find real-time data.
• Cost: A single-zone ticket costs approximately €1.50.

Ferries to the Islands (Brač, Hvar)

Taking a day trip to a nearby island is a classic Split experience. The main ferry operator, Jadrolinija, runs large car ferries that are generally accessible.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair users typically board with the vehicles onto the main car deck, which is flat. From here, you can access the main passenger lounge and restrooms, which are usually on the same level.
• Limitations: Access to the upper, open-air sun decks is almost always via stairs only.
• Booking: It's highly recommended to contact Jadrolinija's Split office at least 48 hours in advance to confirm the accessibility of the specific vessel on your desired route and time.

Accessible Taxis and Transfers

Standard taxis in Split are not wheelchair accessible. For guaranteed accessible transport, especially from Split Airport (SPU), you must pre-book a vehicle with a ramp or lift.

• Providers: Several private transfer companies in Split operate accessible vans. Search for "Split accessible transfers" or "wheelchair taxi Split" well in advance of your trip.
• Cost: Expect to pay a premium. A one-way accessible transfer from the airport to the city center (a 24 km journey) typically costs between €60 and €80, compared to the standard taxi fare of around €40.

Accessible Accommodation in Split: Where to Stay

Finding a truly accessible hotel room is crucial. Always call or email the hotel directly to confirm specific features.

• What to Ask For: Confirm they have a step-free entrance, elevators to all floors, and a room with a roll-in shower (not just a shower with a small lip). Ask for photos if possible.
• Recommended Hotels:

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa: Located near Žnjan, this modern hotel is known for good accessibility, with several fully adapted rooms. Prices range from €200-€400/night. Hotel Cornaro: Situated just outside the Old Town walls (approx. 300m), offering a fantastic location with modern amenities and accessible room options. Expect rates of €250+/night. Marvie Hotel & Health: A newer hotel focused on health and wellness, with excellent accessibility standards. It's located between Bačvice and Žnjan.

Other Accessible Attractions and Activities

Beyond the palace and beaches, Split offers more accessible experiences.

The Riva Promenade: Split's Accessible Heart

The Riva is the soul of Split—a wide, palm-lined waterfront promenade that is perfectly flat, smooth, and entirely accessible. It stretches for about 800 meters. This is where you can stroll, enjoy the view of the harbor, and people-watch from one of the dozens of cafes. Most cafes have ground-floor terraces, making it easy to find a spot for a coffee or a meal.

Marjan Hill Viewpoints

Marjan Hill offers the best panoramic views of Split. While the walking paths are steep, you can experience the view from the main lookout point, Vidilica. The best way to get there is by arranging for an accessible taxi or transfer to drive you up to the cafe terrace at the viewpoint, which is wheelchair accessible.

Museums and Galleries

• Archaeological Museum: One of Croatia's oldest museums. The main building and gardens are largely accessible. It's located about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. Entrance is approx. €6.
• Meštrović Gallery: Housed in a historic villa, this gallery presents some challenges. The ground floor, featuring many of Ivan Meštrović's famous sculptures, is accessible, but the upper floors are not. It's worth visiting for the ground floor and the accessible sculpture garden alone.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Wheelchair Trip to Split

1. Pack a Portable Ramp: A small, foldable threshold ramp can be invaluable for navigating the occasional unexpected curb or single step into a shop or restaurant. 2. Rent a Power Scooter: If you use a manual chair, consider renting a power scooter for a day to explore more widely with less effort, especially for the ride to Žnjan beach. 3. Choose Cafes Wisely: When dining in the Old Town, look for restaurants with outdoor seating in the main squares (pjacas), which are generally more accessible than the tiny indoor spaces. 4. Allow Extra Time: Navigating cobblestones and finding accessible routes takes longer. Don't overschedule your days. Build in time for rest and unexpected detours. 5. Communicate Your Needs: Croatians in the service industry are generally very helpful. Don't hesitate to ask a waiter to move a table or ask a shopkeeper if there's a step-free entrance around the back. A simple "Molim vas*" (please) goes a long way.