Split Diocletian's Palace Tours
Explore the 1,700-year-old Roman palace where ancient history meets modern Croatian life!
Experience Diocletian's Palace, one of the world's most impressive Roman monuments and Split's beating heart! Built AD 295-305 by Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence, this UNESCO World Heritage palace is unique because 3,000 people live within its ancient walls today - shops, restaurants, and homes occupy rooms where emperors once walked! The palace blends Roman architecture with medieval and Renaissance additions creating a living museum. Tours explore underground cellars (basement chambers that supported the palace), the Peristyle (central square), Jupiter's Temple, cathedral built into the mausoleum, narrow streets, and ancient walls. Game of Thrones fans will recognize filming locations! It's ancient Rome brought to life in modern Split!
Featured Diocletian's Palace Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for diocletian's palace tours in Split
Why Choose Diocletian's Palace Tours in Split?
1,700-Year-Old Roman Palace
Walk through remarkably preserved palace where a Roman emperor retired!
Living Monument
Experience a UNESCO site where people actually live - unique worldwide!
Expert Historians
Guides explain Roman history, architecture, and palace transformation over centuries.
Game of Thrones Sites
Visit filming locations from the popular series - Meereen and throne room scenes!
Types of Diocletian's Palace Tours in Split
Classic Palace Tours
Guided exploration of palace highlights, cellars, Peristyle, and cathedral.
Game of Thrones Tours
Visit filming locations with behind-the-scenes stories and series references.
Underground Cellars Tour
Explore atmospheric basement chambers that supported emperor's apartments above.
Small Group Tours
Intimate groups (10-15) with personalized attention and expert guide interaction.
What to Expect on Your Split Diocletian's Palace Tours
Duration
Standard tours last 1.5-2 hours; comprehensive tours take 2.5-3 hours with cellars.
Roman Architecture
Explore 1,700-year-old walls, gates, courtyards, and remarkably preserved structures.
Underground Cellars
Descend into atmospheric basement chambers revealing palace's original layout.
Peristyle Square
Visit the palace's central square - still the social heart of Split today.
Cathedral History
See the cathedral built into Diocletian's mausoleum - unique transformation!
Living History
Experience modern life within ancient walls - restaurants, shops, homes in Roman palace!
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Morning tours (9-10 AM) avoid midday heat and offer better photos in palace courtyards.
Underground cellars require separate ticket (€7) or book tours including access.
Game of Thrones tours combine palace with other Split filming locations - great for fans!
Summer gets extremely hot (35°C+) - underground cellars offer cool relief!
The palace is FREE to explore (it's public streets!) but cellars and cathedral cost extra.
Evening in the Peristyle is magical - locals gather, musicians perform, atmosphere is lovely.
Climb the cathedral bell tower (€7) for excellent views over palace and harbor.
Guided tours reveal details you'd miss exploring independently - worth the investment!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is Diocletian's Palace?
A: It's a massive Roman palace built AD 295-305 by Emperor Diocletian for his retirement. Remarkably, it's a living monument - 3,000 people live, work, and shop within the ancient walls today! It's UNESCO World Heritage and Split's historic center.
Q:Is Diocletian's Palace free to visit?
A: The palace streets, squares, and exterior are FREE (it's public space!). However, the underground cellars (€7), cathedral (€7), and bell tower (€7) require tickets. Guided tours (€20-40) include access and expert explanation.
Q:How long to visit the palace?
A: Plan 2-3 hours minimum for a proper visit. Guided tours are 1.5-2 hours covering highlights efficiently. Self-exploring can take longer as the palace is maze-like with lots to discover.
Q:Was Game of Thrones filmed here?
A: Yes! The cellars were Daenerys's throne room in Meereen (Season 4). Other palace locations appeared in multiple scenes. Dedicated GoT tours visit all filming spots with series stories!
Q:Can you climb the bell tower?
A: Yes! The Cathedral of St. Domnius bell tower is open for €7. It's a steep climb (stone steps, narrow passages) but offers excellent views over palace, city, and harbor. Worth the effort!
Q:When is the best time to visit?
A: Early morning (9-10 AM) for fewer crowds and better light. Evening (after 6 PM) for magical atmosphere when locals gather. Best months: May-June & September-October for comfortable weather. Summer gets very hot!
Q:Do I need a guide?
A: Not required but highly recommended! The palace is complex with 1,700 years of history. Guides explain what you're seeing, reveal hidden details, and bring Roman history to life. Self-exploring is free but you'll miss significant context.
Q:What are the underground cellars?
A: The cellars are basement chambers that supported emperor's residential quarters above. They're atmospheric Roman vaults used for exhibitions and events today. Access: €7 or included with guided tours. They're genuinely impressive!
Why Visit Split?
Magnificent Diocletian's Palace and Roman heritage
Beautiful Dalmatian coast and pristine beaches
Excellent Croatian cuisine and wine culture
Charming historic center and waterfront
Easy access to nearby islands and natural beauty
Perfect blend of history and coastal life
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Split enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summers are hot (75-85°F/24-29°C), winters are mild (45-60°F/7-16°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.
Best Months
May to June and September to October offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
Peak Season
July to August brings peak tourist season with hot weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
Off Season
November to April offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cooler weather and some seasonal closures.
Other Popular Tours in Split
Plan Your Split Trip
Transportation Tips
Walking is perfect for exploring the compact historic center. Buses connect to surrounding areas, and ferries provide access to nearby islands.
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