Private Tour of Split with Food & Wine Tasting

Experience the Flavors and History of Split in an Intimate Private Tour

If you’re visiting Split and craving an authentic taste of Dalmatia’s culinary and cultural scene, this private tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, local food, and wine. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll explore Diocletian’s Palace—an atmospheric living monument—and wander through lively markets and narrow streets that echo centuries of history. The highlight? A traditional Dalmatian “Marenda” (early lunch) paired with local wines, offering a taste of regional life and flavors that linger long after your trip.

What we really appreciate about this experience is its intimate, personalized touch. With a private guide, you get tailored attention and flexible pacing—plus the chance to ask deep questions about Croatia’s past and present. The inclusion of a comprehensive tasting session makes it a fantastic value, especially for those who enjoy pairing history with hearty, regional cuisine. That said, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more independent exploration, this tour’s structured format might feel a bit restrictive.

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, food lovers, and anyone wanting a well-rounded, authentic experience of Split. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the private setup ensures a customized, memorable outing. Just keep in mind the roughly 3-hour duration and the need for some walking through historic streets—comfortable shoes are recommended.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour means more tailored attention and flexibility.
• Deep Dive into History: Explore Diocletian’s Palace, still alive with locals, not just a tourist site.
• Authentic Food & Drink: Tasting local delicacies at the market and enjoying a Dalmatian early lunch with local wines.
• Cultural Insights: Guides share engaging stories and local lore, making history come alive.
• All Dietary Needs Covered: Customizable for vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets.
• Excellent Value: Combines cultural sights, delicious food, and wine in one compact experience.

This private tour of Split is a fantastic way to combine the city’s fascinating history with its vibrant culinary scene. Clocking in at about three hours, it’s a manageable yet immersive experience that gives you access to some of the best local flavors and stories. The small group size—or ideally, just your private party—ensures a relaxed, personalized atmosphere that’s perfect for asking questions and diving deeper into what makes Split unique.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the biggest perks? The expert guide—Dinah, based on reviews—who’s praised for her storytelling ability and thorough knowledge of both history and food. Guests mention how she “brought the history of Split alive,” making the experience engaging and memorable. You’ll get to walk through Diocletian’s Palace, a relic over 1700 years old, which is still a vibrant part of everyday life with locals living and working within its walls. This isn’t a dusty museum; it’s a living, breathing neighborhood.

The tour’s culinary stops are thoughtfully curated to highlight local delicacies. At the bustling Green Market, you’ll sample prosciutto, local cheese, and rakija, a regional fruit brandy. The vendors take pride in their products, and you’ll learn about their significance for Dalmatian tradition. One reviewer loved the way their guide explained these foods’ origins, making the tasting much richer than just a quick snack.

The Food & Wine Experience

After the market visit, the tour continues with a sweet stop—a spot specializing in traditional sweets—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Then, you’ll stroll through old streets, sampling burek, a flaky pastry filled with meat or cheese, and evapii, regional grilled sausages that are a staple in Balkan cuisine. These food stops aren’t just about tasting; they’re about understanding the local food culture and its role in social life.

The tour’s highlight? An exclusive wine tasting in a cozy restaurant away from the tourist crowds. Here, you’ll sample first-class local wines paired with regional delicacies, making it a perfect wind-down after exploring the historic streets. Reviewers note the selection as “excellent,” with one mentioning how the guide especially knew “every corner of the palace and other neighborhoods,” adding depth to the experience.

The Value of a Private Tour

Priced at around $300 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It combines history, culture, culinary delights, and wine, all in a compact time frame. The private setup means your guide can customize the experience based on dietary preferences—vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free—making it accessible for most travelers.

For those concerned about walking, be aware that the tour involves exploring narrow streets and historic sites, so comfortable shoes are essential. The meeting point at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda is central and easy to access by public transportation, which adds to the convenience.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeability of guides like Dinah, who “knew every corner” and shared captivating stories. Reviewers also highlight the quality of the wine and food, calling the tasting experience “delicious” and “well-curated.” One even said, “Loved hearing Dijanas stories of Split and Croatia,” emphasizing how storytelling enhances the culinary journey.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Diocletian’s Palace (1.5 hours)

The cornerstone of your tour, Diocletian’s Palace, is more than just ancient walls; it’s a bustling hub with local residents living inside. You’ll learn about the palace’s history dating back over 1700 years, but also see how modern life persists within its historic fabric. Expect to walk through narrow alleys, courtyards, and underground cellars that reveal the grandeur of Roman architecture. The guide’s insights make history accessible, and the relaxed pace allows ample time for photos and questions.

Green Market (15 minutes)

The lively Green Market is a sensory feast. As you stroll through the stalls, you’ll encounter prosciutto, cheeses, fresh herbs, and regional specialties like rakija. The vendors are eager to share their stories about traditional products, and you’ll get to taste some of the best local offerings. This stop is a great way to experience everyday life in Split and understand its culinary roots.

Sweet Stop (10 minutes)

A cozy local hotel specializing in traditional sweets offers a chance to indulge. Expect to sample confections that highlight Dalmatian flavors—think honey, nuts, and pastry. Reviewers mention how this stop satisfies sweet cravings and offers a glimpse into local dessert traditions.

Burek and More (20 minutes total)

Walking through old streets, you’ll stop at a place serving burek, with options ranging from cheese to meat fillings. The flaky, savory pastry is a regional favorite, and guides often include stories about its place in Balkan social life. Later, you’ll have the chance to taste evapii, a grilled sausage that’s a Balkan staple, at a recommended local restaurant. These stops aren’t just about eating; they’re about connecting with local culinary customs.

Wine & Food Tasting (45 minutes)

Nestled in a quiet restaurant, this segment is a highlight. You’ll enjoy an intimate tasting of local wines and delicacies, with knowledgeable staff guiding you through each sip and bite. The selection is praised for its quality, with reviews mentioning the “first-class wines” and “delicious pairings.” It’s a perfect way to unwind after exploring the historic streets, and the small group setting makes it all the more special.

Practical Details and Considerations

This is a private experience—only your group participates—which enhances flexibility and comfort. The total duration is approximately 3 hours, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive yet manageable taste of Split. The tour starts at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda, a central location that’s easy to reach.

The price of $298.54 per person reflects the personalized service, quality of tastings, and the depth of historical insights. When you consider the cost of separate guided tours, food, and wine tastings, this package offers good value—especially given its private nature.

Since the tour is customizable for dietary needs, be sure to communicate any restrictions after booking. The guide or host will follow up to accommodate vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the experience fully.

A notable advantage is the free cancellation policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides peace of mind when planning your trip.

Final Thoughts

This private tour of Split offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into the city’s history, culture, and culinary scene. Guided by passionate locals, you’ll explore a living monument and enjoy regional delicacies that bring the city’s flavors to life. The combination of history, tasty bites, and exclusive wine tastings makes it a fantastic choice for those who want more than just sightseeing.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized attention, love discovering local foods, and enjoy storytelling that enhances their understanding of a place. The tour’s flexible design makes it accessible for different dietary needs, and the intimate setting ensures you won’t be just another face in a large group.

For anyone seeking a deliberate, culturally rich experience that balances history with gastronomy, this tour offers an excellent way to spend a few hours in Split—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the tour can be customized to all dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. After booking, the tour provider will contact you to discuss your specific needs.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours, which includes walking, tasting stops, and wine tasting.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Obala Hrvatskog narodnog preporoda 23 in Split and ends back at the same location.

Is this tour private or a group?
It is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, offering personalized attention.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is usually booked about 65 days in advance. It’s recommended to secure your spot early, especially in peak season.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, but weather cancellations are fully protected.

This tour offers a thoughtful, flavorful way to experience Split’s lively streets and historic heart, making it ideal for travelers who want an authentic, personalized taste of Croatia.