From Diocletian's times to 2026 - BEST free walking tour

Together we will discover why Split is a hidden gem of the Mediterranean, from Diocletian’s times to nowadays – DISCOVER why everybody talks about Croatia!

Our journey will start in 295 A.D., as you see you are visiting a 1700-year-old city, and wondering how it all happen. How the palace became the second-largest city in Croatia? And how is life in Croatia today?

This free tour follows the footsteps of Diocletian, a local boy who left a huge impact on the Roman Empire. His palace, today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, holds historical sights, secrets, and stories that will come to life on this tour.

This tour covers the most important Split’s historical events like:

Diocletian's comeback
Demolition of Salona
Beginning of Settlement of the Palace
The transformation from pagan to Christian buildings

We will see different areas of the complex, such as the cellars and monumental Peristyle courtyard. Look at the emperor's private observatory and see the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally built as Diocletian's Mausoleum. Discover the site of the Temple of Jupiter and Baptistery, and the original Bronze Gate, Silver Gate, Golden Gate, and Iron Gate that provided access to the city. Discover a refuge for the noblewomen of Split at the Benedictine Monastery of St. Arnir, admire the original 15th-century Town Hall, and marvel at the Baroque monuments of Fruit Square (Voćni trg).

The tour lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes

Available in English

100% of travelers recommend this Free Tour

Guide: Ivana

PRO

Tours since 2023

I’m a licensed guide from Split who loves meeting people from all over the world. I’ve lived in a few places (in Croatia & Spain) and studied French and Italian language. I love sharing the amazing history and stories of my hometown! I also lead tours to Plitvice Lakes, Croatia’s biggest national park. When I’m not guiding, you’ll find me enjoying some “fjaka” - that's a perfect local way to relax with a coffee while soaking up the sun. Join me for a fun tour packed with stories about Greek gods, Roman history, and conspiracies, a real Roman soap opera. I promise it’s a great way to start your vacation in Split! 😊 🚩 Small groups 🚩 Great intro to Croatia 🚩 Tips & recommendations after the tour

4.93

338 reviews

Professionalism

4.96

Fun

4.83

Communication

4.87

Quality

4.93

Route

4.96

4.93

338 reviews

Professionalism

4.96

Fun

4.83

Communication

4.87

Quality

4.93

Route

4.96

10 stops

1 hour and 30 minutes

Meeting point:Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 22, 21000, Split, CroatiaAddress is in front of the ● Southern/Brass Gate of the Diocletian's Palace (entrance to the cellars)•, seaside. I will be in front of the ice cream shop that is just outside of the Brass Gate, above on the outside wall, 2nd floor you will see black "Zoi" restaurant sign. Please check the 2nd picture on my profile for reference.Open in Google Maps →

Outside visit

Riva

Outside visit

Diocletian's Cellars

Outside visit

Peristil

Free tours don't have a fixed price. At the end, each person contributes to the guide the amount they consider fair based on their satisfaction. As a guideline, Guruwalk recommends between €15 and $50 per participant.

Accessibility

Not suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Groups

Accepts bookings of up to 30 people.

Pets

Suitable for bringing pets.

Minimum attendees

Requires a minimum of 5 people to conduct the tour.

Additional costs

The tour does not require payment for entries or additional expenses.

Free cancellation

If you cannot attend the tour, please cancel the reservation, otherwise the guide will be waiting for you.