Split Nightlife Guide: 5 Trending Spots Locals Are Whispering About

Cocktails Split - New-wave cocktail lab near the palace

A fresh arrival on the Split nightlife map, Cocktails Split is already pulling in curious locals and in-the-know travelers with a 4.8 rating and a sleek, intimate vibe.

Why it is trending:

• New business energy means the team is experimenting, listening to feedback, and sharpening their menu every week.
• Low review count but very high rating suggests early visitors are impressed and talking about it offline.
• Boutique size and crafted cocktails fit the current Split trend toward smaller, quality-focused bars rather than loud mega-clubs.

What to expect:

• Thoughtful signature cocktails with modern twists on Adriatic flavors.
• A relaxed, date-friendly atmosphere instead of a party bar.
• Good pre-game spot before you head deeper into the Old Town or toward the Riva.

Best for: Cocktail lovers, small groups, couples starting their night in style.

Sanctuary Restaurant&Cantina - Lively crowd-pleaser with late-night buzz

With more than a thousand reviews and a strong 4.4 rating, Sanctuary Restaurant&Cantina is one of Split's most consistently busy nighttime hubs.

Why it is trending:

• Steady flow of new reviews shows it is not just a past favorite but still a go-to in 2025.
• The mix of restaurant and cantina keeps it lively from dinner through late drinks.
• Popular with both backpackers and young professionals, so the crowd is social and easy to meet.

What to expect:

• Casual, colorful interior with a soundtrack that gets louder as the night goes on.
• Comfort food and shareable plates that make it easy to linger.
• Cocktails, shots, and crowd-pleasing drinks at fair prices for the city center.

Pro tip: Use Sanctuary as your social launchpad. Eat, grab a few rounds, then follow new friends to nearby bars or clubs.

Best for: Groups, solo travelers, anyone who wants guaranteed energy and an easygoing vibe.

Tiramisù Bar Split - Dessert cocktails and cozy late-night chats

Tiramisù Bar Split has quietly built a loyal following, with a 4.8 rating and hundreds of reviews praising its sweet-leaning drinks and laid-back atmosphere.

Why it is trending:

• Dessert-focused drinks and tiramisu-inspired cocktails tap into the current sweet-cocktail craze.
• Word-of-mouth from repeat visitors keeps momentum steady, even without a flood of recent reviews.
• It fills a niche between dessert cafe and cocktail bar, which is rare in Split.

What to expect:

• Creamy, indulgent cocktails plus classic drinks for those who prefer something less sweet.
• Warm, intimate interior that encourages lingering over one more round.
• A calmer crowd than the party bars, ideal for winding down the night.

Best for: Date nights, small friend groups, anyone who loves a dessert-drink combo.

Maduro Bar - Classic Split bar with a loyal late-night crowd

With close to 800 reviews and a 4.3 rating, Maduro Bar is a solid, time-tested choice that still feels current.

Why it is trending:

• Consistent review growth shows it remains a staple in locals' night-out circuits.
• Known for a relaxed, slightly retro bar feel that contrasts with newer, polished cocktail spots.
• Attracts a mix of regulars and visitors, which keeps the atmosphere authentic rather than touristy.

What to expect:

• Straightforward drinks at reasonable prices and friendly service.
• Music that leans on rock, pop, or classics depending on the night.
• A good middle ground between quiet cocktail lounges and full-on party bars.

Best for: Casual nights out, bar-hopping itineraries, and anyone who prefers a no-fuss drink with character.

Café & Restaurant Lvxor Split - Historic square that turns into an open-air lounge

Set right by Diocletian's Palace, Café & Restaurant Lvxor Split is a daytime landmark that transforms into a charming nighttime hangout.

Why it is trending:

• Its location in the historic core makes it a natural magnet for evening drinks and people-watching.
• Even with a huge number of reviews, it maintains a solid 4.1 rating, showing staying power in a competitive area.
• The trend in Split toward atmospheric, open-air spots keeps Lvxor in demand after sunset.

What to expect:

• Tables spilling out into the square, with live or ambient music bouncing off ancient stone walls.
• Wine, spritzes, and classic cocktails rather than experimental mixology.
• A relaxed, scenic setting that works as both a start and end point for your night.

Best for: First-time visitors, sunset aperitifs, and anyone who wants a postcard-perfect backdrop for their drinks.

How to string these spots into one great night in Split

• Start early at Café & Restaurant Lvxor Split for a golden-hour drink in the square.
• Move to Cocktails Split for crafted cocktails in a quieter, refined setting.
• Head to Sanctuary Restaurant&Cantina when you are ready for a louder, social crowd and late-night energy.
• Drop into Maduro Bar if you want an unpretentious bar stop on the way.
• Finish at Tiramisù Bar Split for dessert cocktails and a softer landing before calling it a night.

Why use MapsBuddy for Split nightlife

Split changes fast, with new bars opening and older spots reinventing themselves every season. MapsBuddy tracks review momentum, local chatter, and growth scores so you can find nightlife venues that are trending now, not just those that were popular years ago.