Split, a sun-drenched city on Croatia's Adriatic coast, is one of those rare places where history is not locked behind glass — it is alive in every street, alley and palace wall. Yet to truly understand this city, its museums are where the story deepens. Whether you are fascinated by Roman archaeology, maritime tradition, or contemporary art, Split's cultural institutions offer a journey through centuries in a single afternoon. Planning your arrival by plane? A Split airport transfer will get you to the city centre quickly and comfortably, so you can start exploring without delay.
The Archaeological Museum in Split is the oldest museum in Croatia, founded in 1820. Located at Zrinsko-Frankopanska 25, it houses an impressive collection of about 150,000 archaeological artifacts — from prehistory to the early Middle Ages. Roman artifacts, Greek ornaments, ancient jewellery, and stone inscriptions from Salona all await you here. The outdoor garden of Roman sarcophagi alone is worth the visit.
Situated in the impressive Gripe Fortress — a 17th-century Venetian bastion — the Croatian Maritime Museum showcases the seafaring heritage of the Adriatic coast. Inside you'll find model ships, nautical instruments, lighthouse lanterns, and a remarkable collection of torpedoes. Don't miss the VR diving experience and the life-sized bow section of the steamship Bakar in the courtyard.
Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century hospital building near the Golden Gate of Diocletian's Palace, the Gallery of Fine Arts presents over 3,500 works spanning 700 years of Croatian and international art. From medieval masters to contemporary installations, the gallery traces the full arc of artistic expression — and includes a thoughtfully curated icon collection.
Founded in 1910, the Ethnographic Museum was Croatia's first of its kind. Set inside Diocletian's Palace itself, it presents traditional costumes, jewellery, woodwork, and handicrafts from across Dalmatia and the Dinaric hinterland. A bonus: the ticket includes access to the Vestibule terrace, with one of the finest rooftop views of the Old Town.
The Split City Museum is located in the Gothic-Renaissance Papalić Palace, in the very heart of Diocletian's Palace. Spread across multiple locations — including the Palace Substructures, the Old City Hall, and the Emanuel Vidović Gallery — it tells the story of Split from ancient Rome to the 20th century. The palace building itself, with its ornate courtyard and painted wooden ceiling, is a highlight in its own right.
Situated on the southern slopes of Marjan Hill, the Ivan Meštrović Gallery occupies the former summer villa of Croatia's most celebrated sculptor. Inside, his masterpieces in marble, bronze, and wood are set against panoramic views of the Adriatic. The ticket also includes entry to Kaštilac — a nearby Renaissance chapel housing his magnificent Life of Christ wood carvings, carved between 1916 and 1950. Note: the interior exhibition space is currently partially closed for renovation; admission is reduced by 50% during works.
The Museum of Illusions in Split offers a unique experience for curious minds of all ages. Located at Ulica Andrije Kačića Miošića 2, explore hypnotic installations that challenge your perception — from gravity-defying rooms to mirror mazes and mind-bending optical illusions. It is one of Split's most interactive and entertaining attractions, ideal for families and those looking for something a little different.
Located at Bosanska 9 in the heart of Split's Old Town, the Game of Thrones Museum brings the world of Westeros to life. Walk through themed rooms representing Meereen, King's Landing, the North and Beyond the Wall — complete with authentic props, original costumes, life-size wax figures, and even temperature and scent effects. The tour ends with an iconic photo opportunity on the Iron Throne.
Opened in mid-2025, Selfie Experience Split is the city's newest and most Instagram-ready attraction. Located at Gundulićeva 26A (in the basement of the Dalma department store), the space features over 30 themed rooms — including an infinity room, an upside-down room, a Vespa setup with a Split city backdrop, and many more creative installations. Costumes and props are provided on-site.
Split is a city where every museum visit feels like turning a new page in a history book that never ends. Whether you spend an afternoon among Roman artifacts at the Archaeological Museum, marvel at Meštrović's sculptures with the Adriatic spread out before you, or immerse yourself in the theatrical world of Game of Thrones, there is something here for every kind of traveller.
With nine distinct museums to explore in 2026 — from the ancient to the thoroughly modern — Split rewards the curious. Give yourself at least two or three days to do it justice, and start your journey the right way: relaxed, on time, and ready to explore.
