If you are planning to visit Split, Croatia, finding the right places to shop can be just as fun as exploring the historic sites (or even more so if you are like me and already know the city well).
Actually, I would go as far as saying that shopping here is practically inseparable from the old town sightseeing.
Because, even as you’re strolling through the center of Diocletian’s Palace, you will notice a wide variety of stalls and street vendors.
But where should you actually spend your time and money (to avoid tourist traps and scams)? I put together this essential guide to shopping in Split so you can find exactly what you need.
Where to Do Shopping in Split
There is a wide choice of places to shop here, as you probably imagine, and it all depends on what you want to buy.
If you are looking for fresh food and local products, there are two main spots you need to know and shop like the locals, enjoying simple, fresh and locally grown (or captured) goodies.
In Split specifically, there is no shortage of natural products. There is no better place to get them than the local farmers’ market and fish market, or as locals call them, the Pazar (Pah-zar) and the Peskerija (pesh-kah-ria).
The fish market is close to the old fishermen’s port Matejuska, while the green market is just above the ferry port. Speaking of which, why not check my detailed guide to the Port of Split, so you never get lost?
The Green Market – Pazar
The convenience of Pazar’s position is its proximity to a bus station and the ferry port itself.
You can stock up on vegetables and fruits before leaving for your favorite island, as produce is at least twice as expensive on the islands.
Shopping in the Split green market is a unique experience filled with colorful fruits and the hustle of local sellers.
The Pazar is a gathering place for people from the Brač, Hvar, and Šolta islands, for the mountain people of Dalmatinska Zagora, and for people from smaller local towns like the seven Kaštela villages. And, of course, plenty of tourists or expats, just like yourself. Everyone’s welcome and everybody leaves happy after shopping here.
All of the locals bring their produce regularly every day to the concrete benches in the shade of the eastern wall of Diocletian’s Palace. The only problem is the prices, which can get out of control during the peak of the season (but even so, it’s usually cheaper then on the islands).
Pay attention to the two different types of sellers: resellers and direct producers.
You always want to purchase from the latter, but they’re getting more and more difficult to spot. If you can’t really tell, the best idea is to buy from the same vendors that locals do.
The local housewives have people they have known for years and they buy from the same vendors every week. And always bargain for the price – it’s a common practice here and it will sometimes have results!
Here you can find everything that grows under the sun. You will see strawberries, fresh or dried figs, lemons, grapes, pomegranates, wild asparagus, sweet-smelling tomatoes, spinach, chard, and carrots.
You can also pick up goat’s and sheep’s cheeses, homemade jams, honey, liqueurs, brandies, meat, and fresh poultry.
This open market also has a section where you can buy clothing and shoes. Be mindful when browsing these outer edges, as most stalls offer mass-produced items and cheap souvenirs instead of authentic local crafts (even though some might seem local).
Depending on the time of day you arrive, the Pazar can be quite an overwhelming experience. A good tip is to visit towards midday, as that is when the vendors start lowering their prices.
However, there’s also the risk of them running out of what you want to buy… so weigh both options before you jump in.
The Fish Market – Ribarnica Peskeria
The Peskeria is located a short walk from the Pazar, right in the middle of Marmontova Street. This is the nice marble-paved street at the western end of the Riva promenade.
It isn’t difficult to find (let the smell draw you in). However, even though not pleasant for the untrained nose, due to nearby sulfur sources dating back to Diocletian’s time, the air keeps the fish fresh. It is one of the few fish markets I visited and I saw no flies.
The fish market opens early as the morning catch comes in even before 07:00. If you want to find the best pieces, set your alarm clock early, unlike with the green market.
Local people do not eat expensive fish like dentex (Zubatac in Croatian), john dory (Kovač), or other prize catches. Those all go to restaurants for tourists.
Locals prefer cheaper, smaller fish like sardines, anchovies (inćun), squid (lignja), sea bream (arbun), mackerel (skuša), and red mullet (cipal). These fish are both cheaper and tasty, and healthy too.
Feeling a bit nervous when shopping for fresh fish in Split? Do not worry. Just check for shiny scales, clear eyes, and firm flesh. Check the gills too, as they should be bright red. If it looks good, buy your best piece to end up on your grill.
Or, if you don’t want to do it yourself, check one of my recommended restaurants in Split for an even better experience.
The Main Area for Shopping in Split
Marmontova Street runs from the Split waterfront promenade (Riva) all the way to the Split National Theater.
It has always been the most important city shopping area, and you will have plenty of options as you explore it. This marble-lined street is a traffic-free zone and serves as the main hub for branded goods and shoes (although some are more expensive due to the touristy nature of Split).
Today, you will find a mix of global fast-fashion brands and local boutiques. Look out for stores like Zara and Massimo Dutti, alongside various beauty shops and high-end fashion names.
I enjoy walking down this street just to window shop and grab a coffee after visiting the fish market – but actually buying a thing or twenty is also fun for sure.
Best Souvenirs from Split
If you want to bring home something special, skip the generic (and usually imported from over the ocean) magnets at the Pazar. Split has amazing local crafts that make perfect gifts and you will find them in small stores along the Marmontova Ulica:
- Brač Stone: Look for jewelry, bowls, or small sculptures made from the famous white stone from the nearby island of Brač. There are several dedicated boutiques right inside the palace walls.
- Lavender Products: Croatia is famous for its lavender. You can find essential oils, soaps, and dried sachets sold by local artisans in the squares.
- Local Delicacies: Pick up some local olive oil, a bottle of Dalmatian wine, or artisanal chocolate from Nadalina. Their chocolates feature unique local flavors like fig or lavender.
- The Croata Necktie: Did you know the necktie originated in Croatia? The Croata store offers beautiful silk ties that make a classy, traditional souvenir. For more fun facts like this one, check out my article dedicated to them.
Split Shopping Malls
For a more modern experience, Split has a few major shopping malls worth visiting. These are great options if you need a break from the summer heat, as they are fully air-conditioned and have plenty of goodies on offer. The main options are:
- Mall of Split: Opened in 2016, this is a premier shopping destination. It features over 200 retail brands, including major international fashion labels. You can easily reach it by public transport or a quick ride-share from the center.
- City Center One: Inaugurated in 2010, it remains one of the largest shopping centers in Dalmatia. Located in the eastern part of the city, it offers a huge selection of shops, bars, and restaurants spread over three floors.
- Joker Center: Situated just a 15 to 20-minute walk from the city center, this mall is a popular spot for locals. It is smaller than the other two but very convenient if you do not want to travel far. It also houses the only McDonald’s in the city proper, located on the ground floor.
Final Thoughts
Shopping in Split is a real experience, and now you can get the most out of it after reading my guide.
I recommend taking your time to explore both the ancient markets and the modern boutiques, as you can find plenty of great things in both. And most importantly, enjoy the warm Mediterranean atmosphere while you do it.
And if you want to explore Croatia beyond Split, I recommend checking out my previous article talking about the best souvenirs to bring home from Hvar.
Happy Shopping! And if you still have questions, or additional advice for fellow travelers, let us all know in the comments down below.