The Best Boutique Hotels in Split, Croatia

You’ll be right in the thick of the action at this regal art nouveau hotel, overlooking the Pjaca – a tiled square lined with cafe terraces and restaurants. However, inside, the Piazza Heritage Hotel is completely serene; just 16 classically luxurious rooms, with gold-painted ceilings and velvet-style chairs, make it feel like a secret, glam hideaway for holidaying couples. Book an outside table at the on-site restaurant, where you can savour decadent truffle risotto in the warm evening air.

To the east of Split’s old town core, a short walk from the must-see Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, this cosy six-room hotel channels the historical feel with exposed stone walls and art inspired by ancient mosaics. While history buffs will love it, so will sun worshippers – you’re only a six-minute walk from the bijou Bacvice Beach. Some rooms come with a terrace or balcony, so you can sit out and enjoy a morning coffee before striking out to explore.

Set at the top end of Republic Square, lined with restaurants dishing up seafood pasta with glimpses of the sun-warmed sea beyond, these luxury rooms are the gateway to Split’s leisurely lifestyle – think long lunches, coffees in the sunshine and walks along the promenade. Simple but modern rooms come with navy accent walls, warmly glowing pendant lights and, in some cases, enough room to sleep five (ideal for families). Hints of ancient exposed stone remind you that you’re in the home of Diocletian.

Around the corner from Saint Domnius Cathedral, built in the fourth century, Hotel Murum brings sleek modernity to this old corner of the city – think a monochrome colour scheme, polished wood floors and writing desks. But hints of an old-world character, such as exposed stone walls and floating bed canopies, give it a romantic feel too. Visit the nearby cathedral – while its interior may be small, the gilded altar makes it one of the must-see attractions in Split.

Few day trippers explore past Split’s central town core, and even though this little pad is only a short walk to the east – over by the Croatian Maritime Museum – it feels like it’s in a secret quarter of town. Hire a bike to explore the area, or just relish the sumptuous interiors, complete with sophisticated brass detailing, lush house plants and herringbone wooden floors. Art lovers will enjoy the nearby Emanuel Vidović Gallery, dedicated to the local painter.

Is a pool one your must-haves? If you book into the uber-stylish Briig Boutique Hotel, right on the edge of Bacvice Beach, you’ll not only get nearby waves for swimming but a rooftop terrace pool overlooking the nearby Adriatic islands. You can spend a day on a lounger while sipping local vino, head to the gym for a light workout or even visit the on-site spa for a massage – this place really is all about indulgence.

It doesn’t get much more historical than the Villa Split Heritage Hotel. Set in a centuries-old Roman house, this hotel was also once home to Marko Marulić, one of the most celebrated literary figures in Croatia. In other words, you’re bedding down in a Unesco World Heritage site, so it’s perfect for proper history geeks who will appreciate everything from the stone walls to the beamed wood ceilings and chandelier-style lighting. Rise early to visit neighbouring Diocletian’s Palace before the crowds arrive.

Just off the waterfront – and near the marina – Heritage Hotel 19 has a luxurious feel with its satin fabrics, marble-style bathrooms and buckets of bubbly available to order (perfect for sipping with an indulgent breakfast on your private sun-dappled terrace – available in certain rooms). It’s ideal for couples, and for peak indulgence, you’ll want to book the penthouse suite – fitted with a relaxing hydromassage bath.

The sun-drenched, bloom-lined terrace is just one of the selling points at the Vida Boutique Hotel – you feel like you can escape the tourist crush and relax with a book on lazy afternoons outside. Another is the on-site bar, a rarity in many boutique hotels. A third? The apartment-style set-up in some rooms, allowing you to cook breakfast or dinner to save cash for exploring the city sights or enjoying day trips to neighbouring islands.