Split: Small Group Storytelling Walk & Palace Tour

Summary

Stories, chocolate, Roman stones and slow moments in Split

You’ll wander Split’s palace walls with a local guide who shares family stories and city secrets. Taste artisan chocolate, squeeze down “Let Me Pass” street, and learn why life here moves slowly. This isn’t just history — it’s living memory you’ll feel in every step.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that window up there? My grandmother used to wave at me from there when I ran through this square,” Ana said as we started our walk on the Riva Promenade. Right away, it felt less like a tour and more like tagging along with a friend who knows every shortcut and memory tucked between the stones. The air smelled faintly of coffee and salt — people sitting in the sun, talking without hurry. I tried to match their pace but kept glancing around, half-expecting Diocletian himself to stroll by.

Ana led us into Diocletian’s Palace, pointing out where laundry still hangs between Roman columns (she laughed when someone asked if it was legal — “We’ve always done it!”). We ducked into the cool basements beneath the city, where you can actually touch the rough stone walls. It’s hard to explain — you feel time pressing in down there. She told us about traders and workers who shaped these tunnels centuries ago; her voice echoed just a little off the old bricks. I caught a whiff of something earthy, almost metallic, like old coins or wet stone.

Peristyle Square opened up suddenly — sunlight bouncing off marble, someone playing accordion nearby. Ana explained “pomalo,” that Split way of taking things easy (I’m still working on it). We passed the Cathedral of Saint Domnius — tiny but proud — then squeezed through what locals call “The let me pass street.” Honestly, I nearly got stuck behind a stroller. There was this moment at Nadalina chocolate shop where we tasted dark chocolate with dried figs; I probably made too much noise enjoying it, but nobody minded.

The last stop was by Gregory of Nin’s statue. Ana insisted we rub his toe for luck (“Everyone does it — even if they pretend not to”). The sun was setting over those 4th-century walls and modern life buzzed all around us. It hit me then how much history here isn’t locked away in museums — people live right inside it. I still think about that mix of old stone and laughter echoing through Split’s streets.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Split's historic old town

• Begin at the Riva promenade
• Wander into old town and Diocletian’s Palace
• Stop for a bite and share stories
• Visit basements of Diocletian’s Palace
• Walk to Peristil imperial square
• See the Cathedral of Saint Domnius
• Walk through narrow "let me pass" street
• Visit Temple of Jupiter
• Explore the “new old town” area
• Stop for local chocolate tasting at Nadalina
• See the Golden Gate of the Palace
• End at Gregory of Nin sculpture and make a wish

Top questions

Is this Split storytelling tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Does the small group tour include food or snacks?

Yes, you’ll sample locally made chocolate during the walk.

How long does the private storytelling walk in Split last?

The exact duration isn’t listed but expect a relaxed pace covering main sites within central Split.

What are some highlights on this day trip in Split?

You’ll visit Diocletian’s Palace basements, Peristyle Square, Cathedral of Saint Domnius, Temple of Jupiter, Riva Promenade, and Gregory of Nin statue.

Are children or infants allowed on this walking tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Who leads the storytelling walks in Split?

A licensed local guide born and raised in Split leads each tour.

Is public transportation nearby for this Split walking tour?

Yes, public transport options are available close to the meeting point.

What’s included

Your day includes a certified local guide born in Split who shares personal stories along with history; recommendations for food and activities; samples of locally made chocolate; plus accessibility for wheelchairs and strollers so everyone can join comfortably.