Walking tour of Split with an Art Historian
Discover the historic heart of Split with Josipa, an Art Historian and licensed local guide, on this small-group walking tour. More than a typical sightseeing tour, this experience reveals the stories, hidden details and deeper meaning behind Split's most iconic landmarks. Through clear and engaging storytelling, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and cultural heritage while forming a more meaningful connection with the places you visit. Explore 1700 years of history and discover how Split evolved from a Roman imperial palace into the vibrant Mediterranean city it is today. Enjoy a relaxed and personal atmosphere in a small group of up to 10 people - ideal for travelers seeking a more insightful and authentic experience. At the end of the tour, receive honest local recommendations, helping you continue exploring Split like a local. Every tour is personally guided by Josipa, ensuring a genuine, high-quality, and memorable experience.
What you'll see & do
- ✓We will meet in the midst of Strossmayer Park, locally known as 'Đardin', next to the central fountain. Our story of Split will begin with the tale of water, which brings life to the Palace for over 17 centuries.
- ✓Our first sight will not be a glamorous one, but it will help us better understand what makes the city of Split truly unique worldwide. Prepare to travel 1,700 years into the past.
- ✓Before entering the Palace at the Golden or Northern Gate, we will stop by the 7-meter tall, bronze statue of Gregory of Nin, work of a famous Croatian sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic. Besides grabbing its toe for good luck, we will learn some intriguing details about this monument that became ingrained in local popular culture.
- ✓The northern entrance to the Emperor Diocletian's Palace was one of four entry points to the ancient Roman palace. After learning some of the most intriguing details about its history, we will proceed with our tour along Cardo, the main Roman street stretching from North to South, towards Peristyle.
- ✓After entering the Palace through the Golden Gate, we will traverse the ancient Cardo Maximus, the main Roman street that spanned from North to South. This historic pathway leads us directly to our next destination: hidden garden inside the Diocletian's Palace.
- ✓After wandering through the north-western corner of Diocletian’s Palace, we will arrive at the Iron Gate. There, you will hear the story of why the Iron Gate was the city's 'platinum' gate throughout its history.
- ✓As we stroll along the Decumanus, the grandeur of the Diocletian's Palace reveals itself as we approach the monumental Peristyle. We will learn the story of its origin and history, unraveling many of the stories it holds.
- ✓The secret behind this short but significant detour from the Peristyle toward the east will be unveiled on site.
- ✓While on the Peristyle, we'll delve into the history of what was originally a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor, which has since been repurposed as a Christian cathedral. Your guide will ensure you receive all the essential information, complemented by intriguing historical details to spark your imagination. We will not be entering the Cathedral since it is a paid site and this tour does not include entering any paid sites or museums.
- ✓This must-see attraction was once listed as 'one of the most beautiful European monuments' by the Scottish architect Robert Adam in the 18th century. Its beauty and charm remain just as captivating today.
- ✓Measuring less than 10 meters in length and only 57 centimeters wide, this street is recognized as one of the narrowest in the world. However, its significance extends beyond its size. Holding a special place in the memories of Split citizens it is also honored with a public monument on the other location in the city.
- ✓Once serving as the entry point to the Emperor's Quarters, Vestibule has become one of the most popular open-air photo spots. We will pause here to admire the scenery, capture a photo or two, and perhaps even savor the traditional 'klapa' singing, often performed in this acoustically rich environment.
- ✓Similar to locals, we'll take this 'shortcut,' which holds rich archaeological and historical significance, to reach the Riva waterfront. As we journey, we'll notice a shift in atmosphere from the vibrant Peristyle to the quieter and darker substructures before emerging onto the bustling Riva waterfront. While we won't explore the substructures in their entirety due to additional admission fees and time constraints, we can arrange a separate guided visit if you're interested in delving deeper into this remarkable structure.
- ✓As an important meeting place in Split, Riva functions as both a street, a promenade, and a square. We'll take a leisurely stroll along a portion of it to reach our next destination, the Fruit Square.
- ✓At the seaside exit of the Diocletian’s Palace Substructures, we will pause at a large model of Split’s Old Town to review city's layout and topography. This stop refreshes what we’ve seen on the tour. This is also likely our final stop, as exploring the Palace is extensive. If time allows, we may continue. If not, your guide will share tips for further exploration, including her favorite spots in the city.
What's included
- ✓Your licensed local tour guide, Josipa, the owner of Aspalathos Guided Tours
Good to know
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Disclaimer: This tour does not enter any museums or paid sites.
This tour will take place rain or shine.
The tour will wait for a maximum of 10 minutes beyond the scheduled time before departing from the starting point.
Pet-friendly: If you'd like to bring your dog along, please contact us before booking to discuss the details. Our guide, Josipa, is a fellow dog owner and loves having dogs around, but we want to ensure all guests are comfortable. A quick check-in allows us to make the experience enjoyable for everyone!
Please be mindful of the possibility of hot weather and ensure you wear appropriate sun protection and carry a water bottle.
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.
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.
Walking tour of Split with an Art Historian
Discover the historic heart of Split with Josipa, an Art Historian and licensed local guide, on this small-group walking tour. More than a typical sightseeing tour, this experience reveals the stories, hidden details and deeper meaning behind Split's most iconic landmarks. Through clear and engaging storytelling, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history and cultural heritage while forming a more meaningful connection with the places you visit. Explore 1700 years of history and discover how Split evolved from a Roman imperial palace into the vibrant Mediterranean city it is today. Enjoy a relaxed and personal atmosphere in a small group of up to 10 people - ideal for travelers seeking a more insightful and authentic experience. At the end of the tour, receive honest local recommendations, helping you continue exploring Split like a local. Every tour is personally guided by Josipa, ensuring a genuine, high-quality, and memorable experience.
What you'll see & do
- ✓We will meet in the midst of Strossmayer Park, locally known as 'Đardin', next to the central fountain. Our story of Split will begin with the tale of water, which brings life to the Palace for over 17 centuries.
- ✓Our first sight will not be a glamorous one, but it will help us better understand what makes the city of Split truly unique worldwide. Prepare to travel 1,700 years into the past.
- ✓Before entering the Palace at the Golden or Northern Gate, we will stop by the 7-meter tall, bronze statue of Gregory of Nin, work of a famous Croatian sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic. Besides grabbing its toe for good luck, we will learn some intriguing details about this monument that became ingrained in local popular culture.
- ✓The northern entrance to the Emperor Diocletian's Palace was one of four entry points to the ancient Roman palace. After learning some of the most intriguing details about its history, we will proceed with our tour along Cardo, the main Roman street stretching from North to South, towards Peristyle.
- ✓After entering the Palace through the Golden Gate, we will traverse the ancient Cardo Maximus, the main Roman street that spanned from North to South. This historic pathway leads us directly to our next destination: hidden garden inside the Diocletian's Palace.
- ✓After wandering through the north-western corner of Diocletian’s Palace, we will arrive at the Iron Gate. There, you will hear the story of why the Iron Gate was the city's 'platinum' gate throughout its history.
- ✓As we stroll along the Decumanus, the grandeur of the Diocletian's Palace reveals itself as we approach the monumental Peristyle. We will learn the story of its origin and history, unraveling many of the stories it holds.
- ✓The secret behind this short but significant detour from the Peristyle toward the east will be unveiled on site.
- ✓While on the Peristyle, we'll delve into the history of what was originally a mausoleum for the Roman Emperor, which has since been repurposed as a Christian cathedral. Your guide will ensure you receive all the essential information, complemented by intriguing historical details to spark your imagination. We will not be entering the Cathedral since it is a paid site and this tour does not include entering any paid sites or museums.
- ✓This must-see attraction was once listed as 'one of the most beautiful European monuments' by the Scottish architect Robert Adam in the 18th century. Its beauty and charm remain just as captivating today.
- ✓Measuring less than 10 meters in length and only 57 centimeters wide, this street is recognized as one of the narrowest in the world. However, its significance extends beyond its size. Holding a special place in the memories of Split citizens it is also honored with a public monument on the other location in the city.
- ✓Once serving as the entry point to the Emperor's Quarters, Vestibule has become one of the most popular open-air photo spots. We will pause here to admire the scenery, capture a photo or two, and perhaps even savor the traditional 'klapa' singing, often performed in this acoustically rich environment.
- ✓Similar to locals, we'll take this 'shortcut,' which holds rich archaeological and historical significance, to reach the Riva waterfront. As we journey, we'll notice a shift in atmosphere from the vibrant Peristyle to the quieter and darker substructures before emerging onto the bustling Riva waterfront. While we won't explore the substructures in their entirety due to additional admission fees and time constraints, we can arrange a separate guided visit if you're interested in delving deeper into this remarkable structure.
- ✓As an important meeting place in Split, Riva functions as both a street, a promenade, and a square. We'll take a leisurely stroll along a portion of it to reach our next destination, the Fruit Square.
- ✓At the seaside exit of the Diocletian’s Palace Substructures, we will pause at a large model of Split’s Old Town to review city's layout and topography. This stop refreshes what we’ve seen on the tour. This is also likely our final stop, as exploring the Palace is extensive. If time allows, we may continue. If not, your guide will share tips for further exploration, including her favorite spots in the city.
What's included
- ✓Your licensed local tour guide, Josipa, the owner of Aspalathos Guided Tours
Good to know
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Disclaimer: This tour does not enter any museums or paid sites.
This tour will take place rain or shine.
The tour will wait for a maximum of 10 minutes beyond the scheduled time before departing from the starting point.
Pet-friendly: If you'd like to bring your dog along, please contact us before booking to discuss the details. Our guide, Josipa, is a fellow dog owner and loves having dogs around, but we want to ensure all guests are comfortable. A quick check-in allows us to make the experience enjoyable for everyone!
Please be mindful of the possibility of hot weather and ensure you wear appropriate sun protection and carry a water bottle.
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.
Cancellation policy
- •A full refund will apply if you cancel more than 24 hours before the activity start time.
- •No refund is possible if you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time.