Holiday Villas in Central Dalmatia to Rent 2024/2025

Central Dalmatia travel guide

Split old town - a breathtaking mix of Roman and rennaisance architecture
White water rafting and zip wires on the Cetina river
Krka National park waterfalls
Main hub for ferries to the islands
Solaris aqua park for kids
Must see: Trogir medieval town and UNESCO world heritage site

Destinations here include historic towns such as Split and Trogir and pretty villages; ideal for family holidays and trips to the islands

Sun, sea, sailing, windsurfing, all water sports, rafting, zip lines, tennis school, ancient towns, fantastic food, fabulous beaches, brilliant islands, family friendly, history, culture, music, poetry. The cirty of Split and the land between Sibenik to the west and Makarska to the east comprise one of the most beautiful coastal regions in the world. The mild to hot climate enables you to indulge in water sports, sailing, hiking, biking, mountaineering and walking, and you will be surrounded by sumptuous scenery wherever you go. This region has Dinaric Alps, river canyons and ancient castles and palaces where Roman, Venetian, Illirian and Greek cultures have all left their mark.

Coastal Towns. Split is the largest coastal city in Croatia and the second largest overall, with 250 000 inhabitants. This gorgeous town, full of life, sun, sea, culture, shopping, wonderful food, amazing Roman and renaissance antiquities and much more is the centre of a completely stunning coastal region. One of the wonders of the world is the Roman Emperor's Palace 1700 years old, right in the centre of Split on the sea promenade.This is a living palace, where people have lived for 2000 years and have their apartments in palace walls, going strong as if the Romans are still there in their Forum and temples. Split has produced many famous Croatian tennis players and has a serious tennis school nearby in Stobrec.

Smaller coastal towns on this section of the coast are Sibenik, Primosten, Trogir, Rogoznica and, Omis. All are easily accessible from Split and are worth visiting - Sibenik for its superb cathedral and arguably the best restaurant in Croatia, Primosten for sheer perfect beauty, Trogir (UNESCO) for unique renaissance architecture and narrow streets, Rogoznica for beaches and lively atmosphere, Omis for its colourful market, sandy beach, boat race and the river Cetina canyon. Split is a hub for ferries to the islands. The nearest are Brac and Solta, then Hvar and finally Vis. You are also within easy reach of the famous National Park of Krka Waterfalls and Biokovo..

Hinterland. Why not venture into Split's hinterland, for more experiences, delicious air dried ham, lamb cooked under hot coals, spit roast pig, gnocchi with cinnamon scented beef in rich red wine. We recommend the small village of Zadvarje, close to the National Park Biokovo 45 minutes drive from Split. Zadvarje has a fantastic adventure centre at the edge Cetina river gorge from where you can do rafting, river tubing, canoeing, canyoning, rock climbing (20 climbing routes) and there is a large zip line. There are two serious rock climbing centres elsewhere, near Brela and Omis. While hiking and biking you can see the biggest waterfall in Dalmatia called The Great Gubavica and the stunning landscapes, with unforgettable views of the Adriatic Sea and islands. Just 50 minutes from Split is the famous town of Sinj, a very special historic place, great for a day visit and some excellent food. This is where the most famous Croatian equestrian event takes place, the ALKA of Sinj, where the best spear throwers ride fast on a horse and try to hit the centre of a ring. The whole event is shrouded in the amazing sense of national identity and proud tradition, and draws visitors from far and wide. The city has one of the largest fortifications in Dalmatia.

A bit further north, in the cradle of Croatian kings, is the town of Knin. So you will be spoilt for choice. You could easily spend a month there without running out of things to do.
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Getting there. Split airport is located 25 minutes west of Split between the towns of Trogir and Kastel. Direct flights from many European cities. Croatian Villa Holidays arranges airport transfers and private tours.