Split isn’t as famous as its southern neighbor Dubrovnik, but it’s arguably just as charming and interesting, not to mention a far better travel value. The Old Town areas of the two cities are very similar, though Split feels like a living city while Dubrovnik exists only for tourists.
This city is also a bit older, and far easier to reach (unless you are on a cruise ship), so it would be unwise to skip it and focus only on Dubrovnik. Hotels in Split are actually dominated by apartment rentals and room (sobe) rentals, which tend to be very good value.
Many of the most interesting sights around town, including the stunning Diocletian Palace, are free or mostly free. Split is also the place to catch a ferry to one of the many nearby islands for an even more unique experience.
Food and drinks in Split are similar to Dubrovnik, except they tend to be much cheaper and far less tourist-dominated. You’ll dine and drink among actual locals in Split, so it doesn’t take much effort to find places with local prices.
