Split, Croatia

• Split is Croatia's second-largest city on the Adriatic coast, built around Diocletian's Palace - a 1,700-year-old Roman palace where about 3,000 people actually live and work today. The entire Old Town sits inside this UNESCO site, which creates an unusual mix of ancient Roman ruins and working neighborhood. Narrow marble streets lead between converted palace chambers that now house apartments, cafes, and shops.
• Coffee culture is big here - people spend hours at cafes, and sitting alone with a laptop or book is standard. English is common in tourist areas and restaurants, less so in residential neighborhoods where you'll want basic Croatian phrases. The Riva waterfront has palm trees and outdoor seating where the tourist and local scenes overlap.
• Croatia uses euros. Crime rate is low, though pickpocketing happens in crowded Old Town spots during July-August when cruise ships unload. The palace area and Riva stay active until late with decent lighting and occasional police patrols.
• The Old Town is pedestrian-only marble streets. Most central areas are walkable. For beaches and outer neighborhoods, city buses run regularly, and Uber and Bolt both operate here. Marjan Hill park sits right next to the center with hiking trails and viewpoints.

Croatian is the main language. English is common in Split's tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops - about 65% of the population speaks some English. Emergency services (112) have English-speaking operators. Tourist police (021-504-511) handle multiple languages. In residential neighborhoods away from tourist areas, English is less common.

• Croatia has dress codes - you can get fined up to €500 for walking around in swimwear or shirtless outside beach areas. Cover up when you leave the beach. For churches, shoulders and knees need covering. Women might want a scarf for Orthodox churches.
• English is common in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. About 65% of Croatians speak some English. In residential neighborhoods it drops off, so basic phrases help: 'molim' (please), 'hvala' (thank you), 'dobar dan' (good day).
• People spend hours at cafes here. Sitting alone to work or read is standard. Tipping isn't required but 5-10% is normal in restaurants, or just round up. Say 'Dobar tek' when starting a meal. Make eye contact when toasting with 'Živjeli'.
• Croatians are punctual and dress neatly in public. Casual clothes work for sightseeing, but locals avoid looking too sloppy in city centers. Handshake and eye contact for greetings.

The first hour after landing is when you're tired, carrying everything, and easiest to take advantage of. Three things to sort before you fly:

• Your ride from the airport. A driver who meets you in arrivals, at a price fixed before you fly — no haggling at the taxi rank.

  Book an airport pickup

• Data the moment you land. Maps, ride apps and a way to call for help as soon as you switch your phone on. An eSIM installs at home.

  Get a good eSIM

• The emergency number. Emergency Services (all): 112. Save it in your phone, not just on this page.

  All emergency contacts

• The Old Town is pedestrian-only - you're walking on marble streets and Roman pathways. Most sites, restaurants, and the Riva waterfront are within 15 minutes on foot from each other.
• City buses (Promet Split) connect neighborhoods and beaches. Tickets cost around €1.50 from kiosks or the mobile app. Bus #12 goes to Marjan Hill, Meje, and Veli Varoš. Bus #8 goes to Žnjan beach on the east side.
• Uber and Bolt both operate here with upfront pricing. More reliable than street taxis, especially from the airport or port. You can also use taxi apps like Cammeo and EkoTaxi. Avoid hailing random taxis to dodge overcharging.
• From Split Airport: Croatia Airlines shuttle bus is €4.50, takes 30 minutes to the bus station. Public bus #37 is under €5 but slower. Taxi or Uber runs €30-35.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.

Explore Split with local guides and curated experiences.