Split Hostels for Digital Nomads

 

Split, Croatia is a fantastic destination for digital nomads, offering a mix of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and affordable living. The city has several co-working spaces and work-friendly cafes, especially around the Diocletian’s Palace area. With a low cost of living compared to other European cities, and the ability to stay long-term with Croatia’s digital nomad visa, it’s a practical base for remote workers. The Mediterranean climate, combined with easy access to the Adriatic Sea, provides a great work-life balance. Split’s growing expat community makes it easy to network and connect with like-minded professionals.

Nomad Score: 8/10 ・ Cost of living: $1900/month ・ Internet speed: 270 Mbps

Apartments Korta – Studio or Single Room

Captain’s Guest House – Double Room

Seascape Luxury Rooms – Superior King Room with Sea & Old City View

 

Marvie Hotel & Health – Classic Double Room

CAPITAL Apartments and Rooms – Deluxe King Studio

Alba Residence – Superior Double Room

Heritage Apartments Trumbić – Studio with Garden View

 

This guide will help you enjoy Split as a digital nomad, offering the perfect blend of productive workspaces, beautiful surroundings, and a vibrant social scene:

1. Internet and Connectivity

  • Wi-Fi: Split offers reliable, fast internet throughout the city, with most cafes, co-working spaces, and accommodations providing strong connections. Fiber-optic broadband is available in most areas, making it suitable for remote work.
  • Mobile Plans: Croatia’s major mobile providers, such as T-Mobile, A1, and Telemach, offer affordable prepaid SIM cards with 4G/5G coverage. These can be easily purchased at kiosks or mobile stores throughout Split.

2. Co-working Spaces

Split has a growing number of co-working spaces tailored to digital nomads:

  • Amosfera: A popular co-working space located near Split’s beach area, offering flexible memberships and a strong community feel.
  • Saltwater Workspace: Located in the city center, this space offers modern facilities, events, and networking opportunities for nomads and freelancers.
  • Smartspace: A co-working space with a mix of private offices and shared workspaces, ideal for both short and long-term remote workers.
  • WIP Coworking: Situated near the ferry terminal, WIP offers a creative and dynamic work environment with stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

3. Cost of Living

  • Accommodation: Split is relatively affordable compared to many other European cities. A one-bedroom apartment in central areas like Diocletian’s Palace or Bačvice can cost between €500–€1,200 per month, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Žnjan and Meje, where prices start around €400.
  • Food: Eating out is reasonably priced, with meals at casual restaurants costing around €8–€15. For groceries, markets and supermarkets like Tommy and Konzum offer affordable produce and essentials.
  • Co-working: Monthly co-working memberships typically range from €100 to €250, depending on the location and facilities.

4. Where to Stay

  • Old Town (Diocletian’s Palace): The historic heart of Split, this area is vibrant and offers plenty of cafes, restaurants, and work-friendly spaces. It can be more expensive and touristy but offers proximity to most attractions.
  • Bačvice: Famous for its beach, Bačvice offers a great mix of relaxation and convenience. It’s a popular area among digital nomads due to its cafes and laid-back vibe.
  • Žnjan: A quieter, residential area with more affordable rent. It’s close to the beach and still well-connected to the city center.
  • Meje: A peaceful neighborhood close to Marjan Hill, ideal for those looking for a quieter environment with easy access to nature and the sea.

5. Transportation

  • Public Transport: Split has a bus network that covers the city and surrounding areas. A single bus ticket costs around 11-13 HRK (€1.50), and monthly passes are available for regular travelers.
  • Bikes: Split is bike-friendly, with cycling routes along the coast and throughout the city. Bike rentals are available, and cycling is a great way to explore the city.
  • Walking: Many parts of Split, especially the Old Town and central districts, are walkable, making it easy to navigate the city on foot.
  • Ferries: Split is a hub for ferries, making it easy to take trips to nearby islands like Hvar and Brač for a weekend getaway.

6. Work-Friendly Cafes

  • D16 Coffee: Located in the Old Town, D16 Coffee is a popular spot with digital nomads, offering great coffee and a relaxed atmosphere for working.
  • Kavana Procaffe: A spacious cafe near the Riva promenade, ideal for working with a view of the harbor.
  • Café Bar Žbirac: Located in Bačvice, this beachside cafe offers fast Wi-Fi and a peaceful setting to work while enjoying sea views.
  • KaKantun: A trendy cafe near the city center with good Wi-Fi, perfect for a productive work session in a creative environment.

7. Visa and Legal Information

  • Digital Nomad Visa: Croatia offers a Digital Nomad Visa that allows non-EU citizens to live and work remotely in Croatia for up to a year. To qualify, applicants must show proof of income (around €2,300 per month) and health insurance. This visa is renewable and provides a legal framework for long-term stays.
  • Schengen Visa: EU citizens can live and work freely in Croatia, while non-EU citizens can stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period on a Schengen tourist visa.

8. Networking and Community

Split’s digital nomad scene is growing, with several networking opportunities available:

  • Meetups: Platforms like Meetup.com host regular events in Split, ranging from entrepreneurial workshops to social gatherings for expats and digital nomads.
  • Facebook Groups: Join groups like “Digital Nomads Croatia” or “Expats in Split” to connect with fellow nomads, share tips, and stay updated on local events.
  • Co-working Events: Many co-working spaces, like Saltwater and Amosfera, host regular networking events, workshops, and social activities to bring the community together.

9. Local Attractions and Leisure

  • Diocletian’s Palace: Split’s most famous attraction, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit. It’s a great place to explore history and local culture while wandering through its ancient streets.
  • Marjan Hill: A beautiful park with hiking trails offering panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a work break.
  • Riva Promenade: The waterfront promenade is lined with cafes and restaurants, offering stunning views of the harbor. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to relax.
  • Beaches: Split has several beautiful beaches, including Bačvice, Žnjan, and Bene. These are perfect for relaxing after work or enjoying water activities like swimming and paddleboarding.

10. Health and Safety

  • Healthcare: Croatia offers good healthcare services, with both public and private clinics available in Split. Non-EU citizens should have private health insurance for the duration of their stay. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to public healthcare.
  • Safety: Split is generally a safe city with low crime rates. As always, it’s important to stay vigilant in crowded tourist areas and keep your belongings secure.

Bonus Tips

  • Weather: Split enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot summers and mild winters. Summer is the peak tourist season, while spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Language: Croatian is the official language, but many locals, especially in the service industry, speak English. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases will be appreciated.
  • Weekend Trips: Split’s central location makes it easy to explore nearby islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis, or take a day trip to the stunning Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park.