Apartments in Split: Why Croatia’s Second City Is a Top Pick for Foreign Buyers
Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and one of the most sought-after destinations for property buyers from around the world. With its UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, stunning Adriatic coastline, and vibrant Mediterranean lifestyle, Split offers an unmatched combination of history, culture, and modern living.
For foreign buyers, apartments in Split represent one of the smartest entry points into the Croatian property market. Whether you are looking for a holiday home, an Airbnb investment, or a permanent residence, the Split apartment market has something for every budget and lifestyle.
Understanding Split’s Neighborhoods
Split is broadly divided into the historic city center and the expanding modern suburbs. The Old Town, built in and around Diocletian’s Palace, is the cultural heart of the city. Living here means waking up surrounded by Roman architecture, with cafes, restaurants, and the famous Riva promenade right at your doorstep. Apartments in the Old Town tend to be older stone buildings, full of character but sometimes requiring renovation.
Just outside the center, neighborhoods like Meje, Bačvice, and Firule offer a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with easy beach access and slightly more modern building stock. Moving further out, areas like Žnjan, Split 3, and Pazdigrad provide newer construction, larger floor plans, underground parking, and elevators — amenities that older buildings in the center typically lack.
For families, the suburbs of Stobreč, Podstrana, and Solin offer quieter streets, larger properties, and excellent access to international schools and green spaces.
Price Ranges and What to Expect
Apartment prices in Split vary significantly depending on location, condition, and building age. In the city center, you can expect to pay between €3,500 and €6,000+ per square meter for renovated apartments. In suburban areas like Žnjan or Split 3, prices typically range from €2,500 to €4,000 per square meter for newer construction with modern amenities.
Studio apartments start from around €100,000, while a well-located two-bedroom apartment in a desirable neighborhood can range from €200,000 to €500,000 depending on the finish and views.
Investment Potential
Split’s tourism sector continues to grow year after year, with the airport handling record passenger numbers. This makes short-term rental investments particularly attractive. A well-managed apartment in a central location can generate strong rental yields during the peak summer season from June through September, with growing shoulder-season demand in spring and autumn.
However, buyers should be aware of Croatia’s short-term rental regulations and registration requirements. Working with a knowledgeable local agent who understands both the property market and the legal landscape is essential.
Why Work With 385 Real Estate
At 385 Real Estate, we specialize in helping international buyers navigate the Croatian property market with confidence. From your first property search to signing at the notary, our team provides end-to-end support in English. We know Split inside and out, and we are here to help you find the perfect apartment.
Contact us today at info@385realestate.hr or call +385 99 385 7325 to start your search.
