Nightlife in Split

A Guide to Going Out in the City

Split stays active after the sun sets, especially during the summer when streets, bars, and public spaces stay busy late into the night. Tourists and locals often head out for a drink, music, or just to enjoy the evening air.

Most nightlife options are easy to reach, with many located near the city center, along the Riva, and around Bačvice. Whether you’re in the mood for music, casual drinks, or meeting new people, Split has plenty of places where the night can unfold naturally.

Where Nightlife Happens in Split

Split’s nightlife is shaped by its neighborhoods. While venues change and trends shift, some parts of the city are consistently active after dark. Here’s where most people spend their evenings:

Riva Promenade

The main waterfront area, known simply as Riva, becomes a gathering place after sunset. Locals and tourists come here to walk, have a drink, and take in the sea view. It’s a relaxed spot that naturally leads into the night, especially during summer months.

Bačvice Area

A short walk from the city center, Bačvice is known for its beach bars and early evening social scene. As the night goes on, this area becomes a transition zone between casual drinks and heading to nightclubs. It’s especially popular among younger crowds.

Firule and Spinut

Less hectic than the city center, these coastal neighborhoods offer quieter cafes and bars with sea views. They’re good for those looking to avoid big crowds while still enjoying the evening.

West Coast (Zapadna obala)

This promenade stretches along the marina, offering a bit quieter but scenic nightlife option. With several bars and restaurants lining the waterfront, it’s a great spot to enjoy a drink or dinner with a view of Split’s old town and harbor. It’s especially popular in the evening for a more relaxed atmosphere, just a short walk from the city center.

What You Can Expect from Split Nightlife

Split’s nightlife covers a wide range of experiences, and there’s something for almost every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking to stay out until sunrise or just have a casual evening drink, the city offers plenty of options.

Beach Bars and Lounges

Along the coastline, especially near Bačvice and Žnjan, beach bars set the tone with music. During the summer, these places sometimes host live DJs or live music, starting in the late afternoon and going into the night.

Nightclubs

Split has a handful of nightclubs for those who want to dance or keep the party going late. They typically open in late evening and stay busy until the early morning hours. Most are located in the city center, near Marmontova Street, near Bačvice beach, etc.

Pub Crawls and Group Nights

Organized pub crawls are popular with tourists, especially solo travelers or small groups looking to meet people. These usually start in the early evening and take visitors through several bars and nightlife areas, ending at a club.

Know Before You Go

Before heading out to explore Split’s nightlife, here are a few practical things to keep in mind:

  • ID Might Be Required: While the legal drinking age in Croatia is 18, it’s good to carry an ID, especially at clubs or on organized events like pub crawls.
  • Cash is Handy: Many places accept cards, but a few smaller bars or outdoor events may only take cash. ATMs are widely available in the city center, but beware of potentially higher transaction fee.
  • Public Transport Runs Less Frequently at Night: If you’re staying outside of the center, plan your return in advance. Taxis, Uber, and Bolt are available 24/7.
  • Peak Season is July & August: Expect more events, larger crowds, and longer lines during this time, especially on weekends.
  • The emergency number is 112 – call for police or ambulance
  • Don’t drink and drive – take a taxi or walk. Split is generally safe, but typical travel precautions apply.