Split Airport (SPU)

About Split Airport

Located approximately 14 miles to the northwest of the city it serves, Split Airport is one of Croatia's busiest. It handles over three million passengers per year, who come from other European cities such as Frankfurt, Paris, and London to enjoy what Split has to offer. Split's airport functions as a gateway not just to the city but to the entire Dalmatian coast, one of Europe's most popular summer destinations.

Split airport began its life as a grass airfield outside the city. The first commercial route was established as early as 1931, back when the country was part of Yugoslavia. The route linked Split with the capital, Zagreb, and other cities throughout the region.

In 1966, a new airport complex was opened. By 1979, growing passenger numbers necessitated the opening of a larger terminal building. In the 1980s, seven million passengers traveling through the airport each year. This all came to an end in 1991, when a Civil War broke out. During the war, the airport was used mainly by NATO forces attempting to keep the peace in the region. Following the war and Croatian independence, the airport went back to civilian use, and by 2008, passenger numbers reached higher levels than they were in the 80s.

Since achieving independence, Croatia has embraced its potential as a tourist destination. The airport has been renovated multiple times since then, in 2005 and 2011, and the popularity of this region just seems to keep growing.

Things to do near Split Airport

Split airport lies outside the city itself. However, there is a surprising number of things to do in the vicinity of the airport. The nearby town of Trogir, just to the south of the airport, is the hub of many of these activities and is a place worth exploring.

• Experience Croatian history at the Cipiko Palace. This Trogir mansion was built in the 15th century in the prevailing Venetian style of the time. Intricately carved balconies show the wealth of the former occupants in the heyday of Venetian rule.
• Take in breathtaking views at Kamerlango Castle. This small but well-preserved fortification makes an imposing sight, and the view from the battlements over the glittering city is worth the price of admission alone.
• Get your first taste of the Adriatic at Gradska Plaza Trogir. This small beach is close to the airport and allows you to dip your toes into the warm and crystal clear ocean. Don't expect too many facilities here, but that's part of the beach's charm.
• Head out on the water with the tour by Trogir Kayak. The startlingly clear waters of the Adriatic are the perfect place to explore by boat, and the knowledgeable guides will take you to the most scenic locations in the area. You'll have so much fun you won't realize what a good workout you're getting.
• Witness the opulence of a Roman Emperor's house at the Palace of Diocletian. This extraordinarily well-preserved mansion dates back to the 4th century and was the home of the Emperor Diocletian, who was born in what is now Croatia. This is one of the city's main tourist attractions and is a monument to the power of the rulers of Rome.

Transit options at Split Airport

• Split airport flies direct to cities in the UK, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, and many other countries.
• Croatia Airlines operates a shuttle bus from the airport to the central bus station in Split. The bus station is conveniently located next to both the train station and the port, making it easy to get wherever you need to go.
• City bus number 37 also connects the airport to the city. However, it stops more frequently than the shuttle buses, so it takes around 50 minutes to make the journey as opposed to 30 for the express bus lines.
• If you want to travel in style, there is a catamaran that sails from the airport to the port of Split. The journey takes around 20 minutes and is the perfect introduction to the gorgeous coastline of Croatia.

Luggage storage at Split Airport

Thanks to its location in the charming town of Trogir, there's plenty to do without going far from the airport. Once you reach the town of Split itself, you’ll find even more to keep you occupied. With a wealth of historic monuments, fantastic restaurants, and one of the most celebrated coastlines in the world, Split has something to offer just about everyone.

Simplify your trip by dropping off your bags at a luggage storage shop near Split airport. Bounce partners with local businesses to make sure you can store any size of bags for as long as you like. Traveling light, you'll be able to see all that is best on the Dalmatian coast, safe in the knowledge that your belongings will be looked after until you come back for them.

Activities and attractions near Split Airport

• Historic Split: You can't visit this ancient city without seeing Historic Split. The cultural heart of the city, this region dates back to Roman times. The Old Town's buildings show the influences of the various factions that have ruled on the Dalmatian coast over the centuries. Wandering these narrow streets is like taking a trip back in time. Plus, many of the city's best bars and restaurants are here, so it's easy to stay refreshed as you explore.
• St. Duje's Cathedral: The spiritual heart of Split reflects the long history of the city. St. Duje's Cathedral was built in 305 AD as the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian. Repurposed into a church in the 7th century, it is now the oldest Catholic Church in the world to still maintain its original structure. This ancient origin means that the Cathedral is completely unique, and is worth exploring to get a sense of the tides of history that have passed through the city. Also, the 12th-century bell tower, or campanile, boasts incredible views over the city and the coastline.
• Bacvice Beach: Enjoy both the natural surroundings and the vibrant life of Split at Bacvice Beach. This beach is where residents of the city go take a break, and the wealth of bars and restaurants will keep you fed while you enjoy the Dalmatian sun. It's a busy place, but that's part of its appeal, since it's an excellent location for people watching. Plus, the reliably warm and clear sea is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water-based activities.