NEW YORK- United Airlines (UA) has confirmed the first nonstop transatlantic service between Split and New York, opening a direct air bridge between Croatia and the United States.
The seasonal route will run from spring through early September, marking a major step for long-haul travel from the Dalmatian coast.
The new service will operate three times weekly and reduce total travel time to around 10 hours. This removes the need for European stopovers that often extend journeys to nearly a full day.
United Airlines New York to Split Flight
This route represents the first scheduled long-haul wide-body operation from Split to an overseas destination. United Airlines will deploy a Boeing 767-300ER, making it the first aircraft of its category to serve regular transatlantic flights from the airport.
The launch strengthens Split’s role as a strategic international gateway, moving beyond its traditional seasonal European focus. It also reflects growing demand for direct US access to southern Croatia.
Flights will operate three times per week during the seasonal window. The nonstop service cuts total journey time by more than half when compared with indirect itineraries via major European hubs.
The Boeing 767-300ER offers a balanced capacity for long-haul leisure and business traffic, aligning with Split’s strong summer demand profile.
Passengers can choose from four cabin options:
- Economy
- Economy Plus
- Premium Plus
- Business Class
Return fares for May departures currently start at just over €700 in economy class. Prices are expected to rise significantly during peak summer months as demand increases.
Impact on Croatian Tourism
The Split to New York route is expected to deliver measurable benefits for Croatian tourism, especially in Dalmatia.
Direct access from the US market improves travel convenience and supports longer stays and higher visitor spend.
The service also enhances Croatia’s visibility in North America and supports broader tourism diversification beyond traditional European source markets.
Part of United’s Wider European Expansion
Alongside Split, United Airlines has announced new nonstop routes to Bari, Glasgow, and Santiago de Compostela. These additions signal a wider expansion of the carrier’s European network and a focus on underserved regional destinations.
The Split launch stands out as a milestone for Croatia, reinforcing its growing appeal to long-haul markets and strengthening transatlantic air connectivity.
Split Travel Guide
Split is the cultural and transport hub of the Dalmatian coast, known for its Roman heritage, island connections, and lively waterfront. The city blends ancient architecture with modern coastal life, making it a key base for exploring southern Croatia.
From Diocletian’s Palace to nearby islands and historic towns, Split offers a compact but varied travel experience. It suits short stays, slow travel, and as a launch point for day trips along the Adriatic.
Why Split Anchors the Dalmatian Coast
Split holds a unique position in Croatia’s tourism landscape. It is both a living city and a preserved historical site. The old town sits inside the remains of Diocletian’s Palace, a fourth-century Roman complex that still shapes daily life.
The city also functions as a major ferry and boat hub. Regular connections link Split to islands such as Hvar, Brač, and Šolta, as well as coastal towns like Trogir. This accessibility, combined with a strong local food scene and walkable center, makes Split a practical base for travelers.
Key Sights and Experiences in Split
Diocletian’s Palace and Old Town
Diocletian’s Palace is one of the best-preserved Roman palace complexes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shops, homes, cafés, and museums now occupy its walls, streets, and cellars. Exploring the palace also means exploring the historic core of Split.
Cathedral of St. Domnius
Built within Diocletian’s former mausoleum, this cathedral is considered the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use in its original structure. The bell tower offers wide views over the old town and harbor.
Riva Promenade
The Riva is Split’s social center. Lined with cafés and bars, it is a place for coffee, people-watching, and sunset views over the harbor. Activity increases in the evening as locals and visitors gather along the waterfront.
Marjan Hill
Marjan Hill provides green space and panoramic views above the city. Marked paths and stairways lead to viewpoints overlooking the Adriatic, nearby islands, and the old town. It is one of the best places for walking and short hikes within city limits.
Museums, Culture, and History
Split City Museum
Located inside the palace, the Split City Museum traces the city’s history from Roman times through the modern era. Exhibits include medieval artifacts, Renaissance objects, and documents from the Yugoslav period.
Archaeological Museum
This museum complements visits to nearby Roman ruins such as Salona. Its collection includes artifacts from ancient Salona, as well as Greek, early Christian, and medieval objects.
Ethnographic Museum
The Ethnographic Museum focuses on local life along the Dalmatian coast. Displays cover traditional clothing, crafts, music, and daily customs shaped by geography and climate.
Day Trips from Split
Trogir
Trogir lies about 32 kilometers north of Split and is easily reached by bus. The old town sits on a small island surrounded by medieval walls and stone buildings. The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is its main landmark.
Salona
Once one of the largest cities in the Roman Empire, Salona now consists of extensive ruins near modern Solin. Visitors can explore amphitheaters, city walls, baths, and early Christian sites.
Klis Fortress
Klis Fortress stands above the inland route between the coast and the interior. Its long history of sieges and changing rulers reflects the region’s strategic importance. The fortress also served as a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Food, Wine, and Local Life
Split’s cuisine reflects its coastal setting. Seafood markets supply local restaurants with sardines, sea bass, and shellfish. Traditional meals often include olive oil, vegetables, grilled fish, and local wines.
Wine tours near Split introduce visitors to Dalmatian wine traditions, particularly white varieties suited to the climate. Food tours in the old town combine tastings with historical context.
Getting Around Split
The city center is compact and walkable. Local buses connect the center with beaches, suburbs, and nearby towns. Bike-sharing services operate seasonally, while ferries handle the majority of island travel. Taxis are available, but they cost more than public transportation.
When to Visit Split
Summer brings the warmest weather and the largest crowds. Spring and early autumn offer milder temperatures, fewer visitors, and lower accommodation costs. Winter is quieter, with reduced tourism services and cooler, wetter conditions.
Safety and Practical Tips
Split is generally safe, with low levels of violent crime. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas, especially during peak season. Standard precautions apply, including watching personal belongings and staying aware at night.
Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. Travel insurance is recommended for medical coverage and trip protection.
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