Varoš: The Charming Historical Heart of Split

Discover Varoš in Split, Croatia: A historic neighbourhood brimming with charm, culture, and authentic Dalmatian heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the past.

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Varos

Varoš, located in the heart of Split, Croatia, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Nestled against the backdrop of Marjan Hill, Varoš is one of the oldest parts of the city, characterized by its narrow, winding streets, stone houses, and picturesque squares. As you wander through this enchanting neighbourhood, you'll be transported back in time, experiencing the rich heritage that has shaped Split over the centuries. The area is renowned for its traditional Dalmatian architecture, with quaint homes adorned with vibrant shutters and blooming flowers. The charm of Varoš lies in its authenticity; it remains largely untouched by modern development, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. The neighbourhood is also home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Church of St. Nicholas, which dates back to the 11th century, and the Church of Our Lady of Soca, a beautiful example of Baroque architecture. Varoš is not just about history; it is also a vibrant district with a lively local community. The neighbourhood is dotted with charming cafes, local eateries, and hidden courtyards where you can relax and soak in the atmosphere. Be sure to visit the local konobas (taverns) to taste traditional Croatian dishes, such as peka and pašticada, prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The friendly locals are always eager to share stories and recommendations, making your visit even more memorable.

Local tips in Varos

Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the narrow, cobbled streets.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday crowds.
Try local delicacies at the traditional konobas for an authentic culinary experience.
Take a leisurely walk up Marjan Hill for stunning views of the neighbourhood and the city.
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery and historic architecture.

File:Diocletian's Palace (original appearance).jpg - Wikipedia

Datoteka:Veli Varoš Križeva ulica.jpg – Wikipedija

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Diocletian's Palace

Discover the stunning beauty and rich history of Diocletian's Palace, an iconic landmark in Split, Croatia, blending ancient Roman architecture with vibrant local culture.

Jupiter's Temple

Discover the ancient beauty of Jupiter's Temple in Split, a captivating blend of history, architecture, and spirituality in Croatia's vibrant city.

Old Town Hall

Explore the Old Town Hall in Split, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Gothic and Renaissance architecture amidst the vibrant atmosphere of Narodni trg.

People's Square

Discover the vibrant charm of People's Square in Split, where history, culture, and community converge in a picturesque setting.

Mala Papalićeva palača

Explore the architectural beauty and historical significance of Mala Papalićeva palača, a must-see landmark in Split, Croatia.

Street Let Me Pass

Experience the vibrant local culture and charming architecture of Split at 'Street Let Me Pass', a hidden gem in the heart of the city.

Iron Gate

Explore the Iron Gate in Split, a historical landmark that showcases the grandeur of Diocletian's Palace and the rich heritage of Croatia.

Kaštelanska vidilica

Experience breathtaking views at Kaštelanska Vidilica, a serene viewpoint in Varoš, near Split, showcasing the essence of Croatia's natural beauty.

Pillars of Perpetual Love

Discover the enchanting Pillars of Perpetual Love in Split, a stunning sculpture symbolizing romance and connection along the beautiful Adriatic coast.

Mural

Experience the vibrant Mural in Split, a captivating tourist attraction showcasing local artistry and cultural heritage in a stunning display of colors.

Unmissable attractions to see

Forest Park Marjan

Discover the natural beauty and historic charm of Forest Park Marjan, a serene oasis in Split, perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation.

West Bank

Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of the West Bank in Split, Croatia, where history and stunning coastal views come together.

Old Town Hall

Experience the architectural marvel and rich history of Split's Old Town Hall, a must-visit landmark in Croatia's stunning coastal city.

Essential places to dine

Corto Maltese Freestyle food

Discover the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine at Corto Maltese Freestyle Food in Split—an unforgettable culinary experience awaits you.

Villa Spiza

Experience authentic Croatian cuisine at Villa Spiza in Split—where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Downtown Grill Split steak & seafood

Discover Downtown Grill in Split: A premier destination for steak and seafood lovers offering authentic Croatian flavors in a charming setting.

Konoba Marjan

Discover authentic Croatian cuisine at Konoba Marjan in Split – where every meal tells a story through local flavors.

Konoba Fratelli

Experience authentic Croatian flavors at Konoba Fratelli in Split – where every dish tells a story.

Dujkin dvor

Discover authentic Croatian flavors at Dujkin Dvor in Split – where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.

Konoba Varoš

Savor traditional Dalmatian flavors at Konoba Varoš in Split - where every dish tells a story.

Restoran Para di šoto, Split

Discover exquisite Mediterranean dining at Restoran Para di šoto in Split - a true culinary gem offering fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors.

Daddy Cool

Discover Daddy Cool in Split – where delicious falafel meets gourmet burgers in a vibrant atmosphere.

Sinemôri

Experience fresh seafood delights with breathtaking views at Sinemôri - a must-visit restaurant in Split's coastal paradise.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mall of Split

Experience shopping like never before at the Mall of Split – a vibrant hub for fashion, food, and fun in Croatia's coastal gem.

City Center one Split

Discover City Center One Split: a bustling shopping mall in Croatia, offering diverse brands, delightful dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

BREAK TIME Handmade Jewellery & Souvenirs

Discover exquisite handmade jewelry and unique souvenirs at BREAK TIME in the heart of Split, Croatia, reflecting local artistry and culture.

Duck Boutique Split

Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs at Duck Boutique Split, where local culture meets playful duck-themed treasures.

GET MORE artisan craft souvenir shop

Explore GET MORE artisan craft souvenir shop in Split for unique handcrafted treasures that embody the spirit of Croatian culture and craftsmanship.

Souvenir Store Papi - Split

Explore the vibrant local culture at Souvenir Store Papi, offering unique gifts and artwork that capture the spirit of Split, Croatia.

Designer Store KRUG

Explore unique fashion at Designer Store KRUG in Split, offering a curated selection of stylish clothing and accessories for discerning shoppers.

CRO Corner

Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at CRO Corner, a charming gift shop in the heart of Split, Croatia.

Aroma Dalmatia (Suverninica A Roma Dalmatia)

Discover a treasure trove of authentic Croatian souvenirs at Aroma Dalmatia, where local craftsmanship meets Dalmatian charm.

Duck Shop Split

Explore Duck Shop Split for unique local gifts and souvenirs that embody the charm and culture of Croatia, perfect for every traveler.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Fabrique Pub

Explore Fabrique Pub in Split - where Croatian culture meets vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine.

Charlie's Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Charlie's Bar in Split, where locals and tourists mingle over expertly crafted drinks in a cozy setting.

Antique Bar

Discover the lively charm of Antique Bar in Split, where unique drinks meet a warm and inviting atmosphere for unforgettable moments.

Pun Kufer Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Split at Pun Kufer Cocktail Bar - where quirky decor meets expertly crafted cocktails for an unforgettable evening.

Caffe bar La Linea

Discover the cozy charm of Caffe Bar La Linea in Split, where delightful drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await every visitor.

NOOR Fine Spirits & Cocktails

Discover the art of cocktail making at NOOR Fine Spirits & Cocktails, where mixology meets elegance in the heart of Split.

MoNIKa's Wine Bar

Experience the best of Croatian wines at MoNIKa's Wine Bar in Split - a cozy retreat for wine lovers and tourists alike.

Caffe bar Drama

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Caffe Bar Drama in Split, where expertly crafted drinks meet a local buzz, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Rodrigo

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Split at Rodrigo, where great drinks and lively atmosphere create unforgettable moments.

Caffe Bar Boheme

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Split at Caffe Bar Boheme, where relaxation meets delightful refreshments in the heart of the city.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Varos

Discover Varos with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloBok
  [bohk]
- GoodbyeDoviđenja
  [doh-vee-jen-ya]
- YesDa
  [dah]
- NoNe
  [neh]
- Please/You're welcomeMolim
  [moh-leem]
- Thank youHvala
  [hvah-lah]
- Excuse me/SorryOprostite
  [oh-proh-stee-teh]
- How are you?Kako si?
  [kah-koh see]
- Fine. And you?Dobro. A ti?
  [doh-broh. ah tee]
- Do you speak English?Govoriš li engleski?
  [goh-voh-reesh lee ehn-gleh-skee]
- I don't understandNe razumijem
  [neh rah-zoo-mee-yem]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMolio bih jelovnik, molim
  [moh-lee-oh bee yeh-lohv-neek, moh-leem]
- I don't eat meatNe jedem meso
  [neh yeh-dem meh-soh]
- Cheers!Živjeli!
  [zhee-vee-yeh-lee]
- I would like to pay, pleaseŽelim platiti, molim
  [zheh-leem plah-tee-tee, moh-leem]
- Help!Pomoć!
  [poh-mohtch]
- Go away!Idi odavde!
  [ee-dee oh-dahv-deh]
- Call the Police!Pozovite policiju!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh poh-lee-tsee-yoo]
- Call a doctor!Pozovite doktora!
  [poh-zoh-vee-teh dohk-toh-rah]
- I'm lostIzgubio sam se
  [eez-goo-byoh sahm seh]
- I'm illBolestan sam
  [boh-leh-stahn sahm]
- I'd like to buy...Želim kupiti...
  [zheh-leem koo-pee-tee]
- I'm just lookingSamo gledam
  [sah-moh gleh-dahm]
- How much is it?Koliko košta?
  [koh-lee-koh koh-shta]
- That's too expensiveTo je pre skupo
  [toh yeh preh skoo-poh]
- Can you lower the price?Možete li spustiti cijenu?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee spoo-stee-tee tsee-yeh-noo]
- What time is it?Koliko je sati?
  [koh-lee-koh yeh sah-tee]
- It's one o'clockJedan je sat
  [yeh-dahn yeh saht]
- Half past (10)Polovina (10)
  [poh-loh-vee-nah (10)]
- MorningJutro
  [yoo-troh]
- AfternoonPopodne
  [poh-pohd-neh]
- EveningVečer
  [veh-chehr]
- YesterdayJučer
  [yoo-chehr]
- TodayDanas
  [dah-nahs]
- TomorrowSutra
  [soo-trah]
- 1Jedan
  [yeh-dahn]
- 2Dva
  [dvah]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Četiri
  [cheh-tee-ree]
- 5Pet
  [peht]
- 6Šest
  [shehst]
- 7Sedam
  [seh-dahm]
- 8Osam
  [oh-sahm]
- 9Devet
  [deh-veht]
- 10Deset
  [deh-seht]
- Where's a/the...?Gdje je...?
  [gyeh yeh]
- What's the address?Koja je adresa?
  [koh-yah yeh ah-deh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Možete li mi pokazati (na karti)?
  [moh-zheh-teh lee mee poh-kah-zah-tee nah kahr-tee]
- When's the next (bus)?Kada je sljedeći (autobus)?
  [kah-dah yeh sleh-deh-chee ow-toh-boos]
- A ticket (to ....)Jednu kartu (za ....)
  [yehd-noo kahr-too zah]

History of Varos

Varoš is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Split, with its roots tracing back to the 4th century when the Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace. Originally a settlement for the palace's functionaries and their families, Varoš grew around the palace's walls, embodying the fusion of Roman and early medieval cultures. The architectural styles and urban layout reflect this historical blend, making it a living testament to Split's ancient past.
During the Middle Ages, Varoš became a vibrant community. As Split flourished, Varoš transformed into a bustling neighborhood, with narrow streets and stone houses. This era saw the establishment of churches and small chapels, contributing to the area's cultural and spiritual life. The Church of St. Nicholas, built in the 11th century, is a notable landmark that showcases the Romanesque architectural style prevalent during this time.
The 16th and 17th centuries brought about significant changes in Varoš due to the threat of Ottoman expansion. While Split itself remained under Venetian rule, Varoš experienced a mix of cultures, with influences from the Ottoman Empire permeating local customs, cuisine, and architecture. The resilience of the local population during this period is evident in the preservation of their traditions and the continued development of their community.
The 19th century marked a period of cultural awakening for Varoš. It became a center for local artisans and craftsmen, with numerous workshops and galleries emerging. The neighborhood was instrumental in the Croatian national revival, fostering a sense of identity and pride among its residents. Festivals and public gatherings became commonplace, highlighting Varoš's role as a vital cultural hub within Split.
In the 20th century, Varoš underwent significant changes due to urbanization and modernization. However, efforts have been made to preserve its historical character, with restoration projects aimed at maintaining the architectural integrity of its streets and buildings. Today, Varoš is celebrated for its charming atmosphere and is a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to experience the rich cultural history of Split.

Varos Essentials

Varos is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Split. If you are coming from the historic center, it is just a 10-15 minute walk. Buses also run from the main bus station to various points in Split, including Varos. If you are arriving by train, the Split railway station is about a 20-minute walk from Varos. Taxis and rideshare services are available for a more convenient option.
Varos is a compact neighborhood, best explored on foot. The narrow streets are charming and pedestrian-friendly. Local buses can take you to nearby neighborhoods, while taxis are available for longer trips or when public transport is less frequent. Bicycles can be rented from local shops, offering a great way to explore the coastal paths along the Riva.
Varos is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to take standard precautions. Avoid poorly lit streets at night and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas. Petty theft can occur near popular tourist spots, so keep your valuables secure. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always trust your instincts.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Local hospitals and clinics are available in Split, with the nearest hospital located about 1 km from Varos. Always have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are located throughout the neighborhood.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Don't wear overly casual or beachwear outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to those in need. Don't bring large bags onto public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Dobar dan' (Good day). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes at taverns. Don't drink alcohol in public parks or areas where it is prohibited.
To experience Varos like a local, visit the local bakeries for fresh pastries in the morning. Engage with the residents, who are often eager to share stories about their neighborhood. Check out the local markets for fresh produce and traditional crafts. Don't miss the sunset views from the Marjan Hill, a short hike away, which is a favorite among locals.

Varoš: The Charming Historical Heart of Split

Local tips in Varos