Split or Dubrovnik – Which Coastal City Should You Visit?

Considering a trip to Croatia but unsure which of its leading coastal cities suits you best? We’ve put together a quick overview on what you can expect from a visit to Split or Dubrovnik…read on for our verdict on which one you should be traveling to!

Sticking up for Split

After capital Zagreb, gorgeous and historic Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and the biggest and most important port city of the Dalmatian coast. 

This ancient city is dominated by UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a former Roman palace, an architectural delight that has now been partially subsumed by the modern city. Walking tours of this central location take you through a series of airy palazzos and hidden alleyways, capped off by fabulous views from the top of St Domnius Bell Tower. 

Your stay in Split can include deep dives into Roman and Venetian history, time on the beach, foodie tours, plus an exciting range of day trip options. 

Day trips from Split can cover anything from the beautiful historic towns of Trogir and Sibenik, adrenaline-fuelled adventures in the surrounding countryside, or day trips to majestic Krka or Plitvice Lakes national parks.

Doubling Down on Dubrovnik

UNESCO Heritage Dubrovnik is rightly regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful cities. A major sea trading port from pre-Medieval times on, this ancient city is rich in history and culture, striking architecture, and old-world charm. 

Stay in Dubrovnik and enjoy memorable walking tours of its immense city walls – a highlight of any trip to Croatia – or an immersive Game of Thrones tour, taking in key filming locations such as the Red Keep, the Great Sept, and Rector’s Palace.

As with Split, there’s easy access to excellent pebbled and sandy beaches on both sides of the city, and a fine array of day trips which can include visits to neighboring Montenegro or Bosnia, both just a short drive away.

So Which City Should I Visit?

Having made a case for both, our answer has to be…why not visit both Split and Dubrovnik? These two jewels of the Dalmatian coast are both simply unmissable, and by booking onto one of our Deluxe Small Ship Cruises you’ll get the absolute best of both cities while traveling in comfort and style. 

Our best-selling 7-night Split to Dubrovnik cruises start in the Croatian coast’s biggest city and end in the Pearl of the Adriatic, along the way stopping in at a series of magical island escapes such as Hvar, Brac, Korcula, and Vis. 

Our award-winning itineraries are exclusively in luxurious, modern, small cruise ships. All cabins are spacious, en suite, and equipped with the very best modern amenities. With a limited capacity and high crew-to-guest ratio, you’ll be traveling in comfort and style; simply sit back and revel in the magnificent scenery and immersive travel experiences you encounter along the way. 

You can find more information about our Deluxe Balcony cruises here; email our travel experts at [email protected], or call on +1415 685 0816 in the USA or +44 208 004 2345 in UK and Australia, to start planning your getaway now!