With Hamburg having delivered the 7s goods once again, we head on to the beautiful Croatian city of Split, which will have the honour of crowning the new champions of our Rugby Europe 7s Championship Series.
But before we get excited for the razzle-dazzle of the 7s, let’s invite you to find out a bit more about Split with the help of city guide and rugby enthusiast Marijan Bačić!
Marijan, thank you for having the time to share your vast knowledge about Split! So, what’s the first place you must go when in Split? And why?
Marijan Bačić. Diocletian's Palace (Dioklecijanova palača) and the Riva Promenade. And to answer the why: it is the living, breathing heart of the city. Unlike most Roman ruins, this 1,700-year-old Roman palace isn't roped off—it’s packed with shops, bars, and homes. People still live inside the palace after 1.700 years. It is a living museum. Right outside is the Riva, the iconic waterfront where locals gather to sip coffee for hours, gossip, talk about sports, love, business, etc. It’s the ultimate introduction to Split's unique vibe.
© Tuomas Lehtinen/Shutterstock.com
Is there a rugby club in the city? If yes, where it is located and can someone check the grounds etc?
MB. Yes, RK Nada (Rugby Club Nada)! They are based at Stari Plac (historically the old Hajduk Split football stadium), located right in the city centre (Svačićeva ul. 4). As for checking the grounds: Yes! The field is easily accessible since it's centrally located. RK Nada is one of the most successful and famous rugby clubs in this part of Europe, and Stari Plac has a legendary, gritty charm.
Are there any rugby bars or sports bars that people can flock after the games?
MB. Absolutely. Split has a great sports culture: the Klub Nada Bar. Right at the Stari Plac ground, this is the traditional third-half hangout for rugby players and fans. Fabrique Pub: Located near the Riva, it’s a massive, stylish gastropub that screens major sporting events and has an excellent selection of beers. Harat's Pub/ To Je To: Great spots in the centre for a lively, international expat/sports fan atmosphere.
For sightseeing, what are some of the coolest spots to take a couple of pictures?
MB. If you want your Instagram or team photos to look incredible, check out Marjan Hill (Prva Vidilica): A short walk up from the old town gives you a panoramic view of the entire city, port, and mountains. The Peristyle (Peristil): The central square of Diocletian’s Palace, flanked by Roman columns. Prokurative (Republic Square): A beautiful, bright-red Neo-Renaissance square that looks like a miniature Venice. The Golden Gate & Grgur Ninski Statue: Rub his big toe for good luck (and a great photo).
Is Split known for a certain type of food or local dish? If yes, what it is and where is the best place to get it?
MB. Yes, Pašticada and fresh seafood. Dalmatinska Pašticada is a slow-cooked beef marinated in wine and prunes, served with homemade gnocchi. It’s the king of Dalmatian comfort food. For an authentic experience, head to traditional taverns called konobas. Konoba Varoš in the Varoš neighbourhood is legendary for its local dishes. For fresh fish, Konoba Fetivi is highly recommended.
Where are the 7s going to take place in Split? How do fans go from the airport or the city centre to there? Will there be food and beverages stalls in the venue?
MB. Typically, major rugby events in Split take place either at Stari Plac (RK Nada's home) or Park Mladeži (RNK Split stadium). As for getting there from the City centre, both venues are within walking distance (10-15 minutes) of Split's city centre. But if you are coming from the airport, you can take the official Pleso Prijevoz airport shuttle bus directly to the main bus station (next to the ferry port), or take Promet Bus Line 37. Taxis/Uber are also readily available. And yes, there are loads of food and drinks! Rugby 7s tournaments are famous for their festival atmosphere, so there are always beer tents, local food stalls (like ćevapi or burgers), and music at the venue.
©Travis Prior
Advice for first-time fans/players who are going to Split? Easy ways to get around, etc.
MB. Getting Around: Split is incredibly walkable. The entire historic centre is a pedestrian zone. For longer distances, use Uber or Bolt (they are cheap and reliable here) or the local Promet Split buses. The "Pomalo" Mindset: The local philosophy is pomalo (take it easy/no stress). Don't expect rushed service in coffee shops; sit back and enjoy. Another crucial piece of advice is hydration & sun protection, as the Mediterranean sun can be brutal during tournament season. Keep hydrated!
For the ones who are looking for a night out, where they can go?
MB. Split has a roaring nightlife, especially in the summer: warm-up/pre-drinks: Start within the Palace walls at bars like Charlie's Bar (famous backpacker/sports bar) or ShotGun Shooters Bar. Clubs: Central Club (a massive nightclub inside a converted old cinema right in the centre) or Vanilla Club (located near the Poljud stadium, very popular in the summer). Beach Party Vibe: Head to Bačvice Beach, where several beach bars and clubs stay open late right on the sand.
Žnjan Beach in Split has been completely renovated into a modern, world-class coastal oasis. This spacious pebbled beach now features beautiful green areas, seaside bars, and excellent recreational facilities. It is the perfect destination for tourists seeking crystal-clear waters, contemporary comfort, and great amenities. It is located about 3.5 to 4 kilometres from Split's city centre, a roughly 45- to 50-minute walk along a scenic coastal path.
Three key items that the 7s players have to take when travelling to Split.
MB. Firm Ground (FG) or Moulded Cleats: Split's summers make the pitches quite hard, so heavily studded soft-ground boots might not be ideal. High-Factor Sunscreen & Sunglasses: You will be under the baking Mediterranean sun all day. Swimwear: You can walk from the rugby pitch to the beach in less than 15 minutes—a post-match sea recovery session is mandatory.
How would you break down Split into three words?
MB. History, Passion, Pomalo. History: You are literally walking through a living Roman palace. Passion: The city is absolutely obsessed with sports (especially Hajduk Split and their rugby heroes). And pomalo: The ultimate local catchphrase meaning "take it easy." It defines the relaxed, coastal pace of life.
Thank you for sharing with us all you know, Marijan Bačić! If you are keen to hear more from Marijan, please check out his Instagram profile, as he is a professional and licensed Split tour guide!
Ready for another massive leg of the 7s Championship Series?
By Francisco Isaac
