Is Split a dangerous city? Which neighborhoods should you avoid when choosing your accommodation?

If you are planning to visit this pretty Croatian city, you are probably asking yourself this legitimate question.

Indeed, although Split is a magnificent city to discover, the choice of neighborhood is important to avoid finding yourself in a red-light district or too far from tourist sites.

In this article, you will find a study on neighborhood safety and advice on the best places to stay.

Is Split dangerous?

Croatia as a whole is one of the safest countries in Europe with a very low crime rate.

According to Numbeo statistics , just like Dubrovnik , Split has a very low crime index (only 31,26 out of 100).

Compared to other European cities, Split is in a good position regarding its safety.

Indeed, in the ranking of European cities' crime rates, Split is at the bottom of the list. It appears less dangerous than Porto , Belgrade , Sofia , or Antwerp.

Are there any areas or neighborhoods to avoid in Split?

After extensive research on local newspapers, forums, specialized sites and AI, we can say that there are not really any particularly dangerous neighborhoods or areas in Split.

The city is therefore not dangerous for tourists.

However, here are some recommendations:

• The areas of Znjan, Kopilica, Plokite and around the bus station are known less safe places that are best avoided at night.
• The districts to the north and east of the old town, which are less interesting and more remote, are not recommended for a tourist stay.
• The area around the train station and bus station should be avoided at night due to poor crowds.
• On the other hand, it is also advisable to avoid areas with a lot of clubs, bars, nightclubs. Indeed, in these red light districts of Split, late at night, there can be fights or violence due to excessively drunk partygoers.

Which neighborhoods to stay in Split?

Split, on Croatia's Adriatic coast, attracts millions of tourists for its rich historical heritage, its old town and Diocletian's Palace.

But where to choose your hotel? What are the most beautiful and most interesting neighborhoods to visit Split?

To help you choose, here are the 3 best neighborhoods to stay in when visiting Split:

• La Old Town of Split : It is the historic center and the most recommended district for a first visit. There you can find the famous Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, picturesque little streets, shops, bars, restaurants... It is the tourist heart of the city, ideal for exploring the history and architecture of Split.
• Veli Varos : Considered one of the oldest neighborhoods in Split, Veli Varos offers authentic charm just a few minutes' walk from the historic center. Its picturesque streets and stone houses give it a romantic atmosphere. It's a great choice for living like a local while still being close to the main attractions.
• Barrels : Renowned for its beautiful sandy beach and crystal clear waters, this lively area is full of restaurants, bars and exciting water activities. This area offers a good compromise between the beach and proximity to the city center. It is ideal for enjoying both the Adriatic Sea and the tourist sites. In addition, it is not very far from the station and the port.

Recommended hotel for a tourist stay

To be right next to the historic center but also close to the beach, here is a hotel with an ideal location to do everything on foot: Hotel Luxe.

Indeed, it's located near the ferry port between the Old Town and the Bačvice district , just 400 meters from Diocletian's Palace and the beach. It's one of Split's highest-rated hotels by guests!