The hype
Guests are obsessed with the balcony views and the free parking, often forgiving the lack of hotel services.
Casa Costabella
$130-190/ night
Book this if You want the million-dollar Split harbor view without the Old Town crowds (or price tag) and don't mind climbing some stairs.
Why People Love It
- Stunning unobstructed views of the Adriatic and Split harbor from the balconies
- Rare on-site private parking (a unicorn in Split)
- Shared 'chef's kitchen' with a high-end ice machine and coffee station
Quick Take: It’s a high-end guest house masquerading as a hotel, offering five-star views with a DIY vibe and zero elevator.
Reviewed by @kazplum: I stayed right next to the Ambassador Hotel and the location was unbeatable. My room had this insane view of the harbor and yachts – I spent hours just watching the boats go by from the window sill. The modern design was a huge plus too.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'bad smell' in the bathroom and the lack of an elevator are the two most consistent gripes.
- You have a rental car and need safe, free parking
- You prefer a quiet glass of wine on a private balcony over a noisy hotel bar
- You are fit enough to handle stairs with luggage
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9
- Housekeeping: Daily service is thorough; rooms are consistently described as 'spotless' and 'modern'.
- Bathroom hygiene: Visually immaculate, but the recurring 'sewer smell' complaint drags down the experience.
- Maintenance: Modern fixtures and new furniture, though some wear on the common area stairs.
- Linens & towels: Fresh, crisp white linens and decent quality towels.
- Odors & scents: Rooms smell fresh, EXCEPT for the intermittent bathroom drain odor reported by multiple guests.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Morning traffic on Obala kneza Branimira
- Plumbing noise from adjacent rooms
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'shared kitchen' is excellent for storing drinks and making coffee, but don't plan on cooking a 3-course meal.
- City tax (approx €1.86-€2.65 per person/night) is usually payable in cash upon arrival.
- The walk to Old Town is a scenic 10-15 minutes along the lungomare.
What to pack
- Earplugs (for the morning traffic)
- A small bag for groceries (supermarket is nearby)
- Cash (Euros) for the city tax and incidentals
Room Genie
Best picks
- Deluxe Double Room with Sea View (The balcony view is the main reason to stay here)
Rooms to avoid
- Standard rooms without sea views (you miss the property's best feature)
- Rooms facing the back lane if you are a light sleeper
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love to request a room on a higher floor with a direct sea view balcony. If possible, please avoid the rooms nearest to the street level to minimize traffic noise.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
No. Despite the name 'Bed & Breakfast' often appearing, most current rates are room-only. You have access to a shared kitchen for DIY coffee and snacks.
Is there an elevator?
No. There are stairs to reach the rooms. Pack light or be prepared to haul your bags.
How far is the Old Town?
It is a flat, beautiful 10-15 minute walk along the seaside promenade (Riva).
Is parking free?
Yes! This is one of the few properties in Split with free, private on-site parking.
Can I check in late?
Only if pre-arranged. The front desk is not staffed 24/7 (usually closes by 9-10 PM).
Is there a pool?
No pool, but you are walking distance to Ježinac and Kaštelet beaches.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the shared ice machine! It's a rare luxury in Croatian rentals.
- ✨
Walk 5 minutes west to 'Teraca Vidilica' for a coffee with the best panoramic view of Split.
- ✨
The grocery store 'Ribola' is just a few steps away for stocking your mini-fridge.
5 things to know before you go
💡The bathroom ventilation can struggle, leading to occasional sewer smells.
💡The 'reception' is often just the host's mobile number—have WhatsApp installed.
💡The blackout curtains are actually very effective, a rarity in this price range.
💡You might share your balcony divider with a neighbor (it's not 100% private).
💡The Wi-Fi is surprisingly fast, good enough for video calls.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Casa Costabella is located and what's nearby.