The Best Nightclubs in Split, Croatia

True to its name, Central lies in the city’s heart minutes away from Diocletian’s Palace. Formerly an imposing cinema, its two dance floors and four bars make it one of Split’s largest and best known clubs with space for just over a thousand people. There are several VIP areas and separate lounges, plus go-go dancers and acrobats on catwalks. Regular themed events and special nights with named DJs make it a popular venue.

Alongside a large public swimming pool – think plenty of groovy lighting reflections – Vanilla specialises in summer-club extravaganzas. These often climax during annual yachting parties when the beautiful people sail in for dusk-till-dawn excess. Several bars – including one that revolves – link the indoors with the outdoors and its spacious terrace often hosts live music from Croatian artists (for which you’ll usually pay more).

Situated beside the sea in the southern Firule district, Zenta appeals to a youngish crowd of hipsters and clubbers. It’s a relatively modest place on two floors – often playing different music – where you’re more likely to rub shoulders with locals than tourists. Expect raucous, honest fun rather than laser-sharp light shows. An enclosed upper balcony overlooks the open terrace, which is usually weather-proofed in winter.

Hidden in the bowels of a bland-looking modern building a little north of Diocletian’s Palace, Quasimodo is a music venue primarily featuring Croatian and regional acts. There’s usually an eclectic programme here ranging from rock to jazz and blues together with souped-up Balkan funk and folk. It’s a small place and, though unlikely to win any style awards, there’s probably nowhere better to tap into the local music scene.

Tucked away in a quiet road fronting the marina, the chameleon-like Hemingway morphs from polished café and cocktail bar at sundown to clubby lounge-bar at night. Part of a small chain across Croatia, it’s not strictly a nightclub but the international-yachtie vibe, sea-facing location and literary name collectively lend an easy-going if not charming veneer of high-life sophistication.

Squeezed into a rather bland mall in the southern Firule quarter, this tiny bar – also known as Monty Python – hosts live music (often covers bands), DJs, stand-up comedy and open mic nights. It’s a real smokey-local joint with neat book-filled shelves seemingly at odds with the faintly rock-hipster vibe. Often rammed, it’s a good spot for a cheap ‘n’ cheerful night out.