Parking in Split, Croatia, can be quite challenging due to heavy tourist traffic, limited parking spaces in the city center, and a variety of parking zones.
If you’re a visitor planning to visit Diocletian’s Palace, a local resident, or catching a ferry to the islands, it’s vital to understand the parking regulations and options available to you.
The city employs a system of parking zones that differ in fees, with options available for both long-term and short-term parking at locations such as Split Airport and the Riva Promenade.
This guide will provide insights on where to park, how much it costs, and other important details to help you navigate the parking landscape in Split. We will cover both paid and free parking options, seasonal regulations, and mobile parking apps, ensuring that you can easily park in Split.
Where are the best places to park in Split?
Some of the best parking locations in Split include the Riva Promenade (Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 23), Train Station Parking Lot (Obala kneza Domagoja 12), Stari Plac (Zrinsko-Frankopanska Street 6), Manđerova (Petar Svačić Street 18), and Vukovarska (Livanjska Street 18).
Additionally, Garage Firule offers spacious parking in a modern facility, making it an excellent choice for those driving larger vehicles.
What types of parking are available in Split?
In Split, you can find parking through street parking, parking lots, and parking garages, each catering to different needs.
Street parking is commonly used, especially in the Red Zone (Zone 1) and Blue Zone (Zone 2). In the Red Zone, prices range from €0.80 to €1.20 per hour, and parking is strictly time-limited to a maximum of two hours. In residential areas (mainly the Green Zone – Zone 3), street parking is more affordable, but certain spots are reserved for residents with permits.
Parking lots are located in busy areas near Split Ferry Port, the Riva Promenade, and Veli Varos. These open-air facilities are often managed by private operators or the City of Split, with fees ranging from €0.80 to €4 per hour. Most parking lots follow the same zoning regulations as street parking, while Zone 3 parking lots offer long-term parking options.
Parking garages in Split provide secure options, primarily located in the Spinut neighborhood and residential areas like Split 3, Mertojak, and Pujanke. Facilities such as Sukoisan Parking Garage and Parking Garage Firule offer short-term parking, while most cater to long-term use. Prices range from €1.50 to €2 per hour, with daily tickets priced around €25.
What are the parking zones in Split?
Split features three parking zones, each with a designated color, price range, and time limits:
- Red Zone (Zone 1)
- Blue Zone (Zone 2)
- Green Zone (Zone 3)
The Red Zone encompasses the city center and major tourist spots, having the highest parking fees. This zone is strictly regulated and only allows parking for a maximum duration of two hours.
Conversely, the Green Zone provides cheaper parking alternatives but is situated further from the center, making it more suitable for residents or those on long-term stays.
How much does it cost to park near Split Old Town (Zone 1)?
Parking in proximity to Split Old Town costs between €0.80 and €4, depending on the type of parking and the season. All parking options near Split Old Town fall within the Red Zone (Zone 1).
In the Red Zone (Zone 1), street parking is set at €1.20 during summer and €0.80 in winter, enforced from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. for a maximum of two hours. Sundays and holidays are free of charge.
Off-street parking fees range from €1.50 to €4 with 24/7 availability. The five parking lots closest to the Old Town include Riva Promenade, Train Station Parking Lot, Stari Plac, Manđerova, and Vukovarska.
The Riva parking area charges €2 per hour in the winter and €4 in the summer, while the Train Station lot costs €2 for the first hour and €3 for each additional hour, with a daily ticket at the Train Station Parking costing €35. Other parking lots in Zone 1 charge €1.50 per hour in summer and €1 per hour in winter.
Where can I find daily and multi-day parking in Split?
Long-term parking in Split is available at various garages and lots throughout the city.
The Firule parking garage, located just a 10-minute walk from the Old Town, provides long-term parking for €25 per day. In contrast, daily parking tickets at open-air parking lots in Split Zone 3 (Green Zone) cost approximately €20, while daily parking at the Train Station is €35.
For the most affordable long-term parking, the Acorus parking lot in the Kopilica neighborhood offers rates of just €10 per day. This monitored facility accommodates campers, buses, and personal vehicles, though it is a bit farther from the Old Town, requiring a 20-minute walk.
Is long-term parking available at Split Airport?
Yes, Split Airport offers long-term parking, starting at €16 per day. The airport’s parking facilities are conveniently located within walking distance from the terminal, making it an ideal option for travelers heading to the islands or going abroad.
However, Croparking Split provides cheaper long-term parking options near Split Airport for just €6 per day, including a free shuttle service to and from the airport.
How do I book long-term parking in Split?
You can book long-term parking upon arriving at Split Airport. Alternatively, Croparking Split offers advanced bookings through online platforms like ParVia.
What are the payment options for parking in Split?
There are three main payment methods for parking in Split, Croatia:
- Coin-operated parking meters
- SMS payment
- Mobile app payment
Parking meters are widespread in Split, especially in the city center. The meters within the Red Zone have time limits and usually allow for a maximum parking duration of two hours. They accept coins, SMS, and mobile payments through apps like Split Parking.
The simplest way to pay for parking in Split is via SMS. By texting your vehicle’s registration number to the designated number for each parking zone, you’ll receive a confirmation SMS that serves as proof of payment, along with a reminder before your time expires. The SMS payment numbers for each zone are: Red Zone (Zone 1) – 708211, Blue Zone (Zone 2) – 708212, and Green Zone (Zone 3) – 708213.
Another convenient method for parking payment is through a mobile app. The Split Parking app allows users to pay via credit card or mobile wallet. This method is popular among locals and tourists alike, offering real-time information on available parking spots at each location. It also allows users to extend their parking duration remotely. The app is available for download on the App Store and Google Play.
Where can I find free parking in Split?
Free parking is fairly limited in Split’s city center, but there are several options, particularly in residential areas like Krizine, Visoka, and Skalice near the Poljud Stadium.
However, these spaces tend to fill quickly, especially during the tourist season. Additionally, short-term free parking is sometimes available in parking lots in front of shopping malls, such as the Mall of Split or Joker Mall.
Is free parking available near Diocletian’s Palace?
There are no free parking options around Diocletian’s Palace as it is located within the Red Zone. However, you can park outside the center and walk to the palace. The nearest free parking is approximately 1-2 kilometers from the Old Town.
Where is the best free parking near Marjan Hill?
The Marjan Hill area offers limited free parking, particularly along Setaliste Ivana Mestrovica, a popular route for locals and tourists visiting the park. However, these spaces are limited and often occupied early in the day.
Is parking available at Split Ferry Port?
There is no parking available directly at Split Ferry Port, but the nearest parking is at the Train Station, located just across the street from the ferry terminal.
Parking near the Split Ferry Port costs €3 for the first hour and €2 for each subsequent hour, with a daily rate set at €35 for those needing longer-term parking. It is worth noting that parking near the Split Ferry Port cannot be reserved in advance.
What parking options are available in Split Old Town?
Direct parking inside Split Old Town is not permitted, as Diocletian’s Palace and surrounding streets are car-free.
No designated parking lots exist within Old Town, and it’s recommended that visitors utilize nearby parking options or opt for public transport.
Where is the closest parking to Split Old Town?
The closest parking areas to Old Town Split are Riva Parking, Train Station Parking Lot, and Stari Plac Parking Lot. Riva Parking, situated adjacent to Diocletian’s Palace, charges €4 per hour, making it the most expensive option due to its proximity to popular attractions.
Alternatively, Train Station Parking Lot and Stari Plac Parking Lot are just a 5-minute walk from Diocletian’s Palace. Stari Plac offers the most affordable rate at €1.50 per hour, proving to be the best budget-friendly parking option near the Old Town.
Is parking allowed in pedestrianized areas of Split Old Town?
No, parking is strictly prohibited in pedestrianized zones such as Peristyle Square and the streets surrounding Diocletian’s Palace. These areas are inaccessible by vehicles.
Can I park near Split’s beaches?
Yes, parking is accessible near most of Split’s popular beaches, including Bacvice and Kasjuni, though it can be limited, especially in summer.
Where is the best place to park at Bacvice Beach?
The most convenient parking option near Bacvice Beach is the Train Station Parking Lot, with rates around €2.00 per hour.
Alternative street parking can be found, but spaces fill up quickly, particularly during the peak months of July and August. Additionally, parking in the Red Zone is limited to a maximum of two hours.
Are there free parking options near Kasjuni Beach?
Free parking near Kasjuni Beach is limited. It’s advisable for visitors to arrive early to secure a space. Alternatively, consider parking in the city center lots and taking public bus number 12 to Bene Bay, followed by a short walk to Kasjuni Beach.
What are the parking fines in Split?
Parking fines in Split are strictly enforced and generally range between €30.00 and €90.00, depending on the violation. Common infractions include parking in unauthorized zones and exceeding designated time limits.
To avoid fines, always park in designated areas and ensure parking payments are completed within regulated zones. Utilizing mobile parking apps or SMS payments can help prevent any overstay issues.
Illegal parking in Split can result in immediate fines, and vehicles might be towed in severe cases, particularly within the Red Zone or if obstructing traffic.
Where can tourists park overnight in Split?
Tourists can find overnight parking in paid parking garages like Garage Firule or designated long-term parking areas near the Split Train Station or within Zone 3. Overnight parking can range from €20 to €35.
It’s important to note that street parking is free during the night. On weekdays, parking is free in Zone 1 from 9:30 PM to 6:30 AM. In Zones 2 and 3, it is free from 7 PM to 7 AM. Street parking is free on Saturdays starting at 2 PM across all zones and free all day on Sundays.
Car Traveler’s Guide to Split, Croatia
If you are planning to arrive in Split by car, it’s important to consider your parking options in advance. Understanding where to park and when to utilize public transport can significantly enhance your overall experience.
As you create your itinerary, take into account how you plan to navigate Split and the nearby attractions you wish to explore. Whether you are searching for restaurants with convenient parking, planning day trips, or looking for accommodations with private parking, having the right information will help ensure a smooth driving experience in Split.
How to Navigate Split’s Public Transportation System
Utilizing Split’s public transportation can help you avoid the challenges of finding parking in the bustling city center. The city’s network includes buses operated by Promet Split, providing frequent routes between the suburbs and major attractions like Riva Promenade and Diocletian’s Palace. Additionally, ferries are available at Split Ferry Port to traverse to nearby islands. Public transport is a cost-effective solution for exploring Split without the worries of parking regulations.
Best Accommodation in Split with Private Parking
Choosing accommodation in Split that offers private parking is crucial for those planning to drive in the city. Many hotels and apartments provide on-site parking, which is especially beneficial for stays near the city center, where parking options are limited. Hotels such as Hotel Luxe, Hotel Park, and Radisson Blu Resort offer dedicated parking for guests. Booking a place with private parking can save you time and eliminate the stress of finding public parking, particularly during peak tourist season.
Top Tourist Attractions Accessible by Foot After Parking in Split
Many of Split’s most notable attractions are within walking distance of key parking lots. Once parked at the Riva Promenade or Train Station, visitors can easily stroll to Diocletian’s Palace, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the bustling Green Market. These sites are all within a short 5-minute walk, making them easily accessible after parking your vehicle.
Day Trips from Split
Day trips from Split to nearby attractions like Trogir, Omis, and Krka National Park are popular for travelers wishing to explore beyond the city. These destinations are easily reachable by car, allowing you to enjoy the stunning landscapes and historical sites in the surrounding region.
How to Rent a Car in Split: Everything You Need to Know
Renting a car in Split is a fantastic way to discover the nearby areas. Several car rental agencies, including Hertz, Sixt, and Avis, offer a variety of vehicles at both Split Airport and within the city. By renting a car, you have the freedom to visit destinations like Krka Waterfalls or Klis Fortress at your own convenience.
Top Restaurants and Cafes a Short Drive from Split
If you’re looking for authentic dining experiences, having a car allows you to visit some highly recommended restaurants just outside of the city. Notable dining spots include Restaurant Perlica in Klis for excellent lamb, Konoba Nikola in Stobrec for delicious seafood, and Konoba Selo in Trilj for hearty homemade meals.
Driving Rules and Regulations for Visitors in Croatia
Visitors should adhere to local driving rules in order to avoid fines while driving in Croatia, and Split is no exception. The typical speed limit within urban areas is 50 km/h, whereas highways permit speeds up to 130 km/h.
Always carry your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance documents. Pay close attention to parking signs in regulated zones since violations can result in fines. Remember that Croatia adopted the Euro (€) in 2023, so ensure you have the correct currency for tolls and parking meters.
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