Catholic Heritage Walking Tour of Split

5.0 (11 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

11 reviews

5.0

Saint Domnius, patron saint of the city of Split — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

The Church of Saint Martin in the northern gate of Diocletian’s Palace — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This walking tour is a unique blend of a classic stroll through Split’s historic center and a special focus on its rich Catholic heritage.

Together we’ll uncover the story of the Croats—who already accepted Christianity at the time of Emperor Heraclius—whose history has been deeply intertwined with Christianity and Catholicism from the very beginning.

In 90 minutes, we’ll explore the city’s ancient and medieval heart: the arrival of the Romans, the legacy of Emperor Diocletian, our beloved patron Saint Domnius, and the centuries of faith that shaped Split.

Along the way, we’ll wander narrow stone alleys, discover hidden corners, and admire the many beautiful churches that grace the old town.

Come walk with me, feel the spirit of faith and history come alive, and make your visit to Split truly unforgettable. Book your Catholic walking tour today—I can’t wait to welcome you!

Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Small Group New Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: Private Tourist Guide Croatia

Ages: Infants (0–2 years) · Children (3–7 years) · Youth (8–17 years) · Adults (18–60 years) · Seniors (61–90 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Bringing the Catholic heritage of the Croatian people closer to all guests on the tour
Included: Sightseeing of 1700 years old Diocletian's palace - a world heritage site protected by UNESCO
Included: Professional and licensed tour guide who is a local and lives in Split

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Split Sign

5 min

Next to the sign with big red letters that spells out the city name - SPLIT, behind the bus terminal for tourist buses. When you turn your back to the restaurant called Terminal F, you will see the southeast tower of Diocletian's palace and entrance into the parking lot at Riva promenade.
Riva Harbor

5 min

Meet your guide and explore how Split’s waterfront evolved from a palace quay into a vibrant promenade that serves as the city’s living room, cherished by every local resident.
Diocletian Palace Substructures

5 min

Walking through the main street of the palace’s cellars, 1,700 years old.
The Peristyle of Diocletian's Palace

10 min

Get ready to travel back in time as you enter this magnificent square. Encircled by columns, you’ll experience what it felt like to witness the emperor’s appearance under the Protiron, emerging from the Vestibule. Discover how the Cardo and Decumanus, the city’s main streets, evolved over the centuries, shaped by various architectural styles. And most importantly, here you will see the oldest building in the world with an active Catholic cathedral and hear all about the persecution of Christians during Diocletian’s time.
Vestibulum of Diocletian's Palace

10 min

Whether you approach from the Peristyle or the Cryptoporticus, this circular structure with its open ceiling will captivate you with both its appearance and remarkable acoustics. Originally serving as the entrance to Diocletian’s private quarters, it continues to impress visitors just as it did centuries ago. Thanks to its exceptional sound quality, it is often used by klapa—traditional a cappella singing groups that preserve the Dalmatian style, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage.
Stop 6

5 min

As you enter the remains of the emperor’s dining hall, you’ll catch a glimpse of the Roman way of dining. You’ll learn what they ate, how they feasted, and why the vomitorium played such a role, giving you a true understanding of the phrase: “Carpe Diem!”
Eastern (Silver) Gate

10 min

The eastern entrance to the palace, with the Dominican church and monastery right next to it.
The Golden Gate

5 min

As you enter the Propugnaculum, you’ll understand why gaining access to this palace—designed as a fortified military camp—was no simple task. Beyond the impressive gates, you’ll see the palace’s best-preserved wall and uncover the hidden location of Split’s oldest chapel. In the wall, we will visit one of the oldest churches in the city, the Church of Saint Martin
The Church of Saint Martin

10 min Admission included

A narrow church, once a guardhouse for Roman soldiers.
Grgur Ninski Statue

5 min

Beyond being a perfect spot for photos, you’ll come across the famous statue of Gregory of Nin. Once you see it, you’ll understand why its creator, Ivan Meštrović, is celebrated as one of the world’s greatest sculptors.
Narodni Trg

5 min

This town square, which has undergone several name changes over the centuries, is now the heart of the old town. Discover the rich architectural layers and the vibrant, often turbulent history that define this lively square.
Church and Monastery of St. Frances

5 min

The Church of St. Francis in Split, often called the “Split Pantheon,” is the burial place of several notable citizens, including the father of Croatian literature, Marko Marulić. Their tombs are located in the monastery cloister, with Marulić’s sarcophagus featuring a life-sized sculpture by Ivan Meštrović.
Fruit's Square (Trg Brace Radic)

10 min

In this charming square, you’ll find Split’s finest example of Baroque architecture. Hear the fascinating stories of how the Venetian Republic defended the city from Ottoman attacks and the pivotal role Marko Marulić, the father of Croatian literature, played in its history.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Next to the sign with big red letters that spells out the city name - SPLIT, behind the bus terminal for tourist buses. When you turn your back to the restaurant called Terminal F, you will see the southeast tower of Diocletian's palace and entrance into the parking lot at Riva promenade.

End point

The church located in the center of the city of Split, on the Riva, opposite the fountain.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.