Split: Group or Private Walking Tour with Art Historian

When wandering through Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, few places are as compelling as Split’s ancient city center. This guided walking tour, led by a knowledgeable Art Historian, offers a chance to experience the city’s Roman roots and medieval charm intimately. Whether you choose a private or small-group experience, it’s a fantastic way to see the highlights while uncovering lesser-known stories tucked into the streets and walls.

What sets this tour apart is its expert guide, Josipa, who doesn’t just rattle off facts but shares insights that you’re unlikely to find in typical tourist guides. We love how personalized and engaging her storytelling is, making each stop feel alive with history. Plus, the tour’s focus on reading the traces of history in the city’s architecture and layout adds a satisfying layer of understanding for those interested in architecture and archaeology.

A potential consideration might be the tour’s pace and physical demands. It’s a walking tour that covers quite a few sites in a short span, so those with mobility issues should consider this. However, if you’re physically able and eager to learn from someone passionate about Split’s story, this experience offers genuine value. It’s particularly suited for history buffs, culture lovers, and travelers keen on exploring beyond the usual photo spots.

Key Points

• Expert-Led Experience: Led by Josipa, an Art Historian with direct involvement in archaeological fieldwork, ensuring trustworthy insights.
• Authentic and Off-the-Beaten-Path: Discover lesser-known corners alongside the major sights, gaining a deeper connection to Split’s history.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a private tour for personalized attention or a small group for a more social experience.
• Rich Storytelling: Expect lesser-known facts and stories that bring Split’s history to life—much of which are not in guidebooks.
• No Entry Fees Required: The tour passes all the major sites but doesn’t include paid entry—perfect for those wanting an overview without extra costs.
• Valuable Local Advice: The guide offers tips on visiting other sites, best times to explore, and local recommendations, enhancing your stay.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Split: A Deep Dive into the Experience

An Insightful Introduction at Strossmayer Park

The tour begins in Strossmayer Park, a peaceful green space just above the Golden Gates of Diocletian’s Palace. Here, Josipa, easily recognizable with her Aspalathos Guided Tours sign, sets the tone with her enthusiasm and deep local knowledge. From this vantage point, she introduces the history of the area, explaining how the ancient Roman city grew around the palace and how it’s still visible today.

This starting point is a smart choice—it’s accessible, offers a clear meeting spot, and frames the tour within the lush surroundings that contrast nicely with the stone walls of Split’s old town.

Walking Through History: Major Landmarks with a Local Twist

The tour hits all the must-see sights, but what makes it stand out is the way Josipa shares stories and details that aren’t in typical guidebooks. For example, at the Gregory of Nin statue, she recounts the story of the noble bishop and why his statue is a symbol of the city’s spirit of independence.

Moving through the Golden Gate, you’ll pass through one of the main entrances of the old city, where Josipa points out architectural details and explains their significance in Roman and medieval times. She often takes a step off the main path to show lesser-known features, like medieval inscriptions or traces of Roman streets beneath modern pavements.

At the Peristil, the grand central square, the guide shares stories about Emperor Diocletian’s original intentions for the palace and how this space has evolved over centuries. The Jupiter’s Temple offers a glimpse into the religious history of the city, even if you don’t go inside—Josipa describes how it was repurposed over time.

Hidden Gems and Less-Frequented Corners

One of the best aspects of this tour is the focus on nooks and crannies often missed by travelers. Josipa points out the Street Let Me Pass, a narrow alley with a surprising story behind its name, and the Vestibul, a small yet fascinating space that hints at the city’s layered past.

The Diocletian’s Cellars provide a tangible connection to the Roman era, with their vaulted ceilings and cool stone walls, which Josipa explains were designed to keep the emperor’s wine and provisions safe. She encourages visitors to look for details in the architecture that reveal the city’s multi-layered history.

The tour then moves toward Riva, Split’s lively waterfront, where locals gather to relax and socialize. While not a sightseeing stop per se, Josipa shares tips on the best spots to eat and enjoy the relaxed Dalmatian vibe.

More Great Tours Nearby

End in Authentic Neighborhoods

Unlike many tours that conclude at a major tourist site, this experience ends in Varo, one of Split’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, you can see preserved 4th-century Roman architecture still in daily use, providing a window into the city’s continuous life through centuries. It’s a fitting ending for a tour that emphasizes the city’s layered history and authentic atmosphere.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour covers approximately 17 different stops, including landmarks such as Gregory of Nin, Golden Gate, Peristil, Jupiter’s Temple, and Diocletian’s Cellars. While none of the stops require entering paid sites, Josipa makes sure to describe what’s behind the facades, giving visitors enough context to explore further on their own.

The itinerary’s pacing is designed to balance walking, storytelling, and photo opportunities. Expect about 2 hours of engaging walking, with lots of chances to ask questions or pause for a photograph. The group size impacts the experience—smaller groups or private tours mean more personalized attention and tailored storytelling.

Practical Details on the Tour

• Price: At $32 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a deep, tailored exploration of Split’s core.
• Duration: 2 hours—perfect for travelers who want a substantial overview without feeling rushed.
• Availability: Check the specific starting times when booking, as schedules vary.
• Group Size: Small group or private options, meaning you’ll have plenty of opportunity for conversation and questions.
• Accessibility: The tour involves some steps and walking on uneven surfaces, so consider your mobility before booking.

The Value of a Guided Art Historian

Having a guide like Josipa, an Art Historian with ongoing archaeological experience, makes a significant difference. She not only describes sites but helps you develop the skill of reading the city’s physical clues yourself. As one reviewer notes, “Josipa explained the history and structures of this unique city to us and also showed us many things we would never have discovered otherwise.”

This level of insight truly elevates the experience—it’s not just sightseeing but learning how to see the city through a historian’s eyes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want more than surface-level sightseeing. History enthusiasts, architecture buffs, or anyone curious about how Split evolved from Roman times to today will find it engaging. It suits those who appreciate personalized experiences and enjoy storytelling that brings history to life.

If you prefer larger groups or are less mobile, you might want to consider other options, but for those seeking an authentic, immersive introduction to Split, this tour delivers genuine value.

The Sum Up

This walking tour with Josipa offers a rare blend of expert storytelling, authentic local insights, and a focus on lesser-known details. It’s a cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of Split’s layered history without the crowds or gimmicks typical of larger tours.

Travellers who thrive on learning from passionate guides and want to see the city with fresh eyes will appreciate how this experience reveals the stories behind every corner and stone. The tour’s intimate format makes it ideal for curious travelers eager to uncover the city’s secrets, both old and new.

While it doesn’t include entry to major sites like Diocletian’s Substructures or the Cathedral, Josipa’s stories set the stage for you to visit those landmarks confidently afterward. It’s a chance to walk away with a richer appreciation of Split’s history—and maybe even a few new favorite spots.

This tour is a fantastic choice for those who value expert guidance, authentic storytelling, and a well-paced exploration of one of Croatia’s most captivating cities. It’s a genuine, heartfelt introduction to Split’s soul.

FAQ

Does the tour include entry to any paid sites?
No, this tour passes all the major sites but does not include entry to paid attractions like the Cathedral or Substructures. The guide provides stories and context to help you appreciate these sites for future visits.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Strossmayerova Fountain in Strossmayer Park, just above the Golden Gates. The tour concludes back at the same meeting point.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, covering all the major sights and some lesser-known corners.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, you can choose a private experience for a more personalized approach, or opt for a small group for a more social outing.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves several steps and walking on uneven surfaces, so it’s best suited for those with good mobility. Contact the provider if you have concerns.

What is the cost?
The tour costs $32 per person, representing good value given the expert guidance and personalized storytelling.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, it takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is in English, led by Josipa.

What kind of advice does the guide offer?
Josipa offers tips on the best times and ways to visit other sites, along with local recommendations for dining and exploring beyond the tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: