No trip to Split is complete without a walk through both of the city’s most iconic markets: pazar (also known as green market), and ribarnica (fish market). Unlike many other open marketplaces, pazar and ribarnica are not attached, but separated from one another. Perhaps it is because of the fish market’s proximity to Matejuska, where Split’s fishing port is, and pazar, being close to the main road into Split, makes it easier to transport goods in and out of the city. Nonetheless, both markets are heavily trafficked every day, and Split would not be Split if not for these two symbolic parts.
Pazar is always bustling, with vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables, cured meats and cheeses, oils and nuts, to flowers, souvenirs and clothing. Vendors are always trying to charm you into buying their product over their neighbors, and terms of endearment are often heard in the process. A staple for locals, pazar also serves great purpose for tourists in Split renting apartments, as the produce is fresh, cheap, and your next farm to table meal can be cooked in your rented kitchen! Pazar is located next to the east wall of Diocletian’s Palace, and is around the church of St. Dominic.
Ribarnica, or fish market, is very similar to pazar and also one of the central points of city life in Split. Ribarnica is lively and loud, with vendors often yelling out their daily specialities with animation and hilarity. With tables set up outside as well as inside, everything the Adriatic Sea has to offer from sardines to mackerels, sea bass to sea shells, and squid to John Dory are perfectly displayed in front of you. Prices are competitive as vendors need to ensure they sell their catch from that day, and you’ll usually notice before closing that vendors will surely give you a bargain. Ribarnica is situated in a square right off of Marmontova street, you can’t miss it!
Why are these markets so special to locals and tourists alike? Here is where you can truly feel the spirit of Dalmatia and the Mediterranean. The colors and flavors are bold, the aromas of the fruits and vegetables (and even fish) fill the air, and most importantly, the constant yelling and bargaining of vendors in true Dalmatian fashion is the perfect glimpse into life as we know it. If you want a proper Dalmatian experience, you know where to go.
