Split: Diocletian's Palace Walking Tour & Riva Promenade

Summary

Walk ancient streets in Split hear palace secrets with a local

You’ll walk Split’s winding streets with a local guide, touch ancient stones in Diocletian’s Palace, watch daily life unfold on Riva promenade, and hear stories you’d never find alone. Expect small surprises—a taste of fig or a laugh over language—and leave feeling connected to Split’s living history.

What’s the experience like?

I met our guide Ana right by the Golden Gate—she was easy to spot with that blue umbrella, chatting with an old man who handed her a fig (she shared it with us later, sticky-sweet). I liked that she greeted everyone like neighbors, even us. We started walking through these stone arches where the air suddenly felt cooler, and Ana pointed out a bit of graffiti from Roman times—just scratched into the wall, almost hidden by shadows. I wouldn’t have noticed it if she hadn’t stopped.

The day trip through Diocletian’s Palace felt less like a formal tour and more like wandering with someone who grew up here. At one point, a group of kids ran past us playing some game—I couldn’t catch the rules but their laughter echoed off the marble. Ana told us about Emperor Diocletian building this place as his retirement home 1,700 years ago (which still blows my mind), and then we ducked into Pjaca square where the “sun” clock keeps ticking all day and night. She let me try saying its name in Croatian—Li laughed when I butchered it.

We ended up on the Riva promenade, which is honestly just alive at any hour—seagulls overhead, old men sipping coffee, that faint salty smell from the harbor mixing with espresso. Ana waved goodbye to someone across the street while telling us how locals use this stretch as their living room. The whole thing was only about 90 minutes but somehow I still think about that moment standing under the palm trees, feeling half-local for a second. It wasn’t perfect (my feet hurt a bit) but I’d do it again just for that sense of being part of Split’s story—even briefly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Split's historic landmarks

• Meet guide at Golden Gate
• Visit Diocletian's Palace
• See Pjaca square
• View 24-hour sun clock
• Walk along Riva promenade

Top questions

How long is the Split & Diocletian's Palace walking tour?

The walking tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where does the tour start in Split?

The meeting point is at the Golden Gate; look for a guide with a blue umbrella.

Is this walking tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What main sights are included on this day trip in Split?

You’ll see Diocletian's Palace, Pjaca square, the 24-hour "sun" clock at City Square, and Riva promenade.

Is there public transportation near the meeting point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

Is this tour accessible for all fitness levels?

The walking tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are service animals allowed on this Split walking tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this tour.

What language is the guided tour conducted in?

The walking tour operates in English only.

What’s included

Your experience includes an English-speaking local guide leading you through Diocletian’s Palace and central Split on foot; you’ll visit historic squares and stroll along Riva promenade—all within about 90 minutes from your meeting point at the Golden Gate.