Split, Croatia farmers market are a must visit in the morning public market (updated 2023)

Every time I’m in a new destination, one of my first visits always end up at a local farmers market. I’m so attracted to seeing what is growing locally, watching the farmers and other producers gather in one spot and see them interacting with their customers, friends and fellow vendors. It’s a fascinating way to discover the culture, history and especially the foods and ingredients that are purchased daily by locals who want only the freshest picks for the day.

The farmers market in Split is located just off the East or silver gate and it is huge. Large areas are sectioned off for produce, prepared products or cooked foods, meat products, clothing and tourist related items, a gorgeous floral market and another area for local delicacies and snacks – it’s quite expansive. The market starts relatively early and lasts for most of the day and it is well attended by locals and tourists alike who end up walking through the east gate below and visit the areas for cheap souvenirs and snacks. I must say though many of the clothing, souvenirs and cheap products sold at the markets seemed to be made of poor quality materials and mostly imported from Asian countries.

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Split silver gate

Where is the public farmers market in Split located

The public farmers market in Split, Croatia, is located in the heart of the city, near the historic center. It’s commonly known as “Pazar” and is situated at the eastern end of the famous Diocletian’s Palace, specifically at the intersection of Hrvojeva and Marmontova Streets. This bustling market is a hub of local produce, traditional foods, and vibrant street life, making it a must-visit for those exploring Split.

The outdoor markets are lively, crowded and a very colorful affair.  Even though the majority of vendors are older women –  the colorful umbrellas, stalls and produce create such a vivid tapestry, it’s a perfect spot to photograph the market from any angle and include a lot of local flavor. Once you enjoyed a day enoying the beaches in Split, explored the waterfront area and wandered around the historic district, you’ll want to hit up the farmers markets next.

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Local produce for sale

Fresh regional produce from Split

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Fresh pomegranates for sale

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Selling fresh produce from the farm

I’m usually attracted to the flower vendors, it seemed like today’s market had every type of flower and foliage available for sale. I can imagine all the amazing flower gardens and greenhouses supplying all these lovely varieties for sale at the market and everything looked fresh and almost too perfect.

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Talking with regular

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

A colorful display

For some reason, the meat butchers and other meat vendors did not like having pictures of their products or their shops taken which was strange considering how sanitary and appetizing many of the prepared food stalls were. I was able to take a quick picture of this yummy pig head before the vendor shooed me away.

Split, Croatia farmers market - Travel Photo Mondays #38

Crispy pig heads for sale

Specialty foods and dishes you can purchase from the morning public market at Split

The morning public market in Split offers a tempting array of specialty foods and dishes, allowing you to savor the flavors of Croatian cuisine. Here are some of the delightful items you can purchase:

Local Olive Oils:

Croatia is renowned for its high-quality olive oils. You can find various olive oil varieties, including extra virgin, infused with herbs or citrus, perfect for drizzling on salads or dipping bread.

Fresh Seafood:

As a coastal city, Split’s market showcases a bounty of fresh seafood, from Adriatic fish to shellfish. Look for Dalmatian specialties like grilled sardines or octopus salad.

Cheeses:

Sample a variety of Croatian cheeses, including the creamy Paški sir from Pag Island or the tangy Škripavac cheese, often served with olive oil and herbs.

Local Fruits and Vegetables:

Taste the season with a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables, from juicy figs and plums to sun-ripened tomatoes and peppers.

Dalmatian Prosciutto (Pršut):

This dry-cured ham is a Croatian delicacy. Pair it with cheese and fresh bread for a simple and delicious snack.

Homemade Jams and Preserves:** Explore homemade jams and preserves crafted from local fruits, such as figs, cherries, or sour cherries.

Artisanal Breads:

Don’t miss the crusty loaves of traditional Croatian bread, perfect for sandwiches or dipping in olive oil.

Lavender Products:

Croatia is famous for its lavender fields. Look for lavender-infused items like essential oils, soaps, and sachets.

Dalmatian Sausages:

Taste the flavors of Dalmatia with sausages like ÄŤevapi or kulen, often enjoyed grilled or in sandwiches.

Local Wine and Spirits:

Discover Croatian wines, rakija (fruit brandy), and liqueurs made from native fruits like cherries and herbs.

Sweets and Desserts:

Satisfy your sweet tooth with Croatian desserts like fritule (doughnut-like pastries), dried figs, or traditional cakes.

Visiting the morning market in Split is a sensory delight, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich culinary traditions of the region and sample some of the finest local products.

In any case, you will not be lacking for any type of produce or souvenirs offered to the public at the Split farmers market.  So if you do want to see more locals doing their daily chores and socializing, head on over to the morning farmers market in the old city center – it’s worth spending the morning wandering around and enjoying the scenes unfold and try some local specialties or snacks. Did you enjoy visiting  the Split seafood market for Travel Photo Mondays? Thank you for visiting us today, please do check out these other bloggers below by clicking on their links.

For more  posts on visiting the fascinating city of Split,  Croatia – check out my other stories below

The best places to visit and photograph Split

Early morning fish market in Split

A free Split city tour of the Diocletian Palace

Local foods of the Dalmatian coastline

Enjoying a day in Trojir, Croatia

Conclusion to visiting the public farmers market at Split, Croatia

In conclusion, a visit to the public farmers market in Split, Croatia, is an enchanting journey into the heart of Dalmatian gastronomy. The market’s vibrant stalls, brimming with fresh produce, local specialties, and artisanal treasures, offer an authentic taste of Croatia’s culinary heritage. Whether you’re savoring the rich flavors of olive oils, indulging in seafood delights, or discovering unique lavender-infused products, this market is a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers seeking a genuine taste of the region. Exploring the market is not just a culinary experience; it’s a cultural adventure that leaves lasting memories of Split’s vibrant food scene and the warm hospitality of its people.

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