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Marriott Bonvoy is one of the most popular hotel loyalty programs in the world. As travellers rack up stays throughout the year, they’ll progress through various elite status tiers with the hotel chain.

Of the five elite status tiers, the most meaningful benefits come at the Platinum and Titanium tiers. Luckily, there are many ways to attain status without just fulfilling the regular requirements.

In this article, we’ll take a thorough look at Marriott Bonvoy elite status, including how to qualify and how to maximize the benefits at each tier.

How Does Marriott Bonvoy Elite Status Work?

You can earn Marriott Bonvoy elite status in one of two ways: by staying a certain number of qualifying nights per calendar year, or by holding various credit cards issued in Canada and the US.

The qualifying requirements for Marriott’s elite status levels are summarized in the below table:

Note that stays booked with third-party providers don’t usually count towards elite qualifying nights. Therefore, be sure to book directly with Marriott to ensure you are credited for the nights from your stay.

If you’re booking at a higher-end property, be sure to get in touch with us for a quote, since you’ll receive extra perks for your stay at no additional cost.

Once you earn a certain status level, it will be valid until the February two years later. Essentially, the status begins when you earn the required number of nights during a calendar year, and is valid until 14 months after the end of that calendar year.

Suppose you have a busy travel period in January 2025 and earn Gold Elite status in the first month of the year. That status would be valid for the rest of 2025, through all of 2026, until February 2027.

If you were to keep staying with Marriott throughout the year, eventually achieving Platinum Elite status in November 2025, then your Platinum status would be valid until February 2027 as well.

And once January 2026 rolls around, a new qualification period has started, meaning that you’d need to achieve 50 nights in 2026 to renew your Platinum status for the subsequent year. Doing so would extend your status validity until February 2028, and so on.

Silver Elite: 10 Nights

Silver Elite is Marriott’s lowest tier of elite status, unlocked once you stay at Marriott properties for 10 nights. There aren’t many substantial benefits that come with this level, but it’s quite easy to reach.

The most meaningful perks include a 10% bonus on points earned from paid stays and priority late check-out. For the latter, you aren’t guaranteed late check-out, but you’ll be prioritized over anyone without elite status.

Free internet and Member Exclusive Rates are also advertised as benefits, but in reality, even the most basic tier of members enjoy those as well.

By simply holding a co-branded credit card, such as the Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card, you’ll receive 15 elite qualifying nights. So, you can earn Silver status each year by simply holding one of these credit cards.

Gold Elite: 25 Nights

Things get a little more exciting at Gold Elite, which is bestowed upon you once you earn 25 elite qualifying nights in a calendar year.

Alternatively, simply holding either the American Express Platinum Card or the American Express Business Platinum Card will also confer Gold Elite status, as will the US-issued Amex Bonvoy Bevy Card and Chase Bonvoy Bountiful Card.

At Gold Elite, you get a higher 25% bonus on points earned from paid stays, and your priority check-out benefit is extended to a 2pm late check-out, based on availability. While the late check-out isn’t guaranteed, at least there’s a fixed check-out time to shoot for.

More importantly, at the Gold Elite level, you receive a couple of new benefits: a welcome gift of either 250 or 500 Marriott Bonvoy points depending on the brand, and room upgrades subject to availability.

The former can add up quickly if you’re a frequent guest, while the latter can bump you up from a standard room to a “better” room of some kind.

This usually results in a slightly larger room, a room on a higher floor, or a room with better views, but you can always try your hand at “suite-talking” for a suite upgrade.

Larger Barlow Room, St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London

Upgrades remain subject to availability, so if all such rooms have been booked up or otherwise set aside by the hotel, you aren’t entitled to an upgrade.

Platinum Elite: 50 Nights

This is where the fun begins. At Platinum Elite, you get access to executive lounges, free breakfast, and suite upgrades – the stuff that everyone wants. 

If you’re going through the traditional route, you’ll have to work for it, as you’ll need 50 elite qualifying nights before you earn the status.

However, by simply holding the American Express US Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Card, you’ll automatically be granted Platinum Elite status for as long as you’re a cardholder. It doesn’t get much easier than this.

Indeed, this is by far the easiest, most direct, and likely cheapest way to earn Platinum Elite status. It almost feels too good to be true that you can attain a meaningful status level without having to step foot in a single hotel room. 

The card has an annual fee of $650 (USD), although it’s offset by a $25 (USD) monthly worldwide dining credit, which brings the effective annual fee down to $350 (USD) if you can maximize this credit each month. For Canadians, this card can be obtained during the early stages of getting into US credit cards as a Canadian; however, you’ll want to be mindful of family language restrictions.

In terms of perks, as a Platinum Elite, you..

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If there’s one thing I love in any destination, it’s coffee. There’s something that feels so sophisticated about grabbing a coffee and exploring the local vibe, working a little, and meeting new people. So, if you’re looking for the best cafes in Split, you’ve come to the right place to learn more about where to go.

Split, Croatia is definitely a digital nomad-friendly spot, and there are many coworking spaces and great cafes to choose from. I actually tend to prefer to work from coffee shops because they have more of a local vibe and I found the best coffee in Split too. This is all great news if you’re a caffeine fan like me, and you need to get some work done.

Best Cafes and Coffee Shops in Split

I take my coffee very seriously, and of course, I take my work equally as seriously, so compiling a list of the best coffee shops in Split wasn’t something I took lightly. After spending a few months in the city, I put together this list based on the quality of coffee, service, price, and how easy it is to work from that particular place. I came up with ten fantastic places for you to go with your laptop and enjoy a day of productivity.

1. Tinel Specialty Coffee Shop (Best Cafe in Split Overall)

For me, Tinel Specialty Coffee Shop is the best cafe in Split to work from. Located right in the heart of the city, the space is light, airy, and comfortable. I also believe they have the best coffee in Split, their cappuccinos in particular, and their iced coffees are ideal for hot summer days.

It’s super-easy to work from here thanks to fast WiFi and plenty of charging points. The seating is comfortable, and it’s a great place to meet other remote workers too. Oh, and the food—the food is rather delicious; make sure you check out their sandwich selection – it’s sure to have your mouth watering.

Tinel Speciality Coffee Shop Information

Address: Križeva ul. 4, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 98 965 2509
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 am – 3 pm
Must-Try Items: Cappuccino, pink latte, iced matcha latte
Average Cost: $3-$4 per latte, $4-$6 per lunch item

2. Kazališna Kavana (Best for Productive Work)

The great thing about this cafe is that it’s so new, most people don’t even know it’s there yet. This makes it an ideal place for a productive and relaxing day of work for you! This is one of the best cafes to work from in Split if you want to chill out and just zone into your tasks without many distractions around you.

The cafe itself is inside the National Theater building, so you’re getting culture alongside great coffee; there are some great photo opportunities too. They also have a small lunch menu which is pretty reasonable and reliable WiFi to keep you powered throughout the day.

Kazališna Kavana Information

Address: Trg Gaje Bulata, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 91 693 1500
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday, 7 am – 12 am, Friday – Saturday, 7 am – 1 am, Sunday, 8 am – 12 am
Must-Try Items: Latte, iced latte, cappuccino
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $4-$6 per lunch item

3. D16 Coffee (Best Location)

Right in the middle of Diocletian’s Palace, this is one of the best cafes in Split, hands down. It’s created with both digital nomads and regular visitors in mind, with large tables and charging points, alongside comfortable chairs. The WiFi is also top quality, and I never experienced any glitches.

The central location is ideal for combining your work day with a little sightseeing. I really rate the quality of coffee here, and the general vibe was upbeat, yet it was easy to get work done. They also have a snack menu, and I highly recommend the fresh cookies if you have a sweet tooth.

D16 Information

Address: Dominisova ul. 16, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 98 36 1200
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7 am – 9 pm
Must-Try Items: Latte, cookies, sandwich menu
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $6-$10 per main, $3 for desserts
Website: www.d16coffee.com

4. Kavana Procaffe (Best for Sea Views)

Kavana Procaffe is one of my favorite laptop-friendly cafes in Split, and it doesn’t hurt that the view over the sea is beautiful. This is the ideal place to be productive and chill out at the same time; it’s not difficult to do with the sea nearby and let’s not even get started on the sunset scape from here.

The chairs are comfortable, and the WiFi is strong. They also have a large coffee and snack menu, and the food at this spot is really delicious. I enjoyed my cappuccino here, and I couldn’t help but order a slice of cake too—highly recommended for the ultimate sugar rush.

Kavana Procaffe Information

Address: Spinutska ul. 67, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 21 38 4323
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 7 am – 12 am
Must-Try Items: Cappuccino, iced latte, cake menu
Average Cost: $3-$5 per coffee, $2.50-$4 per dessert

5. VOGA Specialty Coffee Shop (Best for Comfort)

Located in Bacvice, VOGA Specialty Coffee Shop is one of the best cafes for working on a laptop in Split. It’s designed with remote workers in mind, so you can expect large tables, comfortable chairs, charging points, and great WiFi. You’ll also meet plenty of other digital nomads here, so it’s ideal for collaborating and networking.

Of course, the coffee menu is also fantastic, and I enjoyed a delicious Americano and sandwich here. The lunch menu is affordable and made with the freshest produce. The cafe itself is located close to the beach so it’s a great option for a work/leisure day.

VOGA Specialty Coffee Shop Information

Address: Bijankinijeva ul. 8, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 91 614 3551
Operating Hours: Tuesday – Friday, 8 am – 1 pm, 6 pm – 8 pm, Saturday, 9 am – 1 pm, Sunday – Monday, closed
Must-Try Items: Americano, iced latte, sandwich menu
Average Cost: $2-$3 per latte/americano, $4-$6 per sandwich, $3 for desserts

6. Caffe Bar Basket (Best for a Traditional Vibe)

During the daytime, Caffe Bar Basket is a great place to sit and get some work done while soaking up the atmosphere. You’ll find plenty of other remote workers there and locals simply enjoying their time. It does get a little louder in the evening, especially when sports games are on, so make sure you stick to the mornings and afternoons if you want to be productive.

They serve some of the best specialty coffee in Split here, and I enjoyed a few days working at this cafe. It has a great traditional vibe, and it’s a really comfortable place to sit and get a few hours of work done in the fresh air.

Caffe Bar Basket Information

Address: Ul. Domovinskog rata 42, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 21 485 806
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 7 am-12 am, Friday – 7 am – 1 am, Saturday, 8 am – 1 am
Must-Try Items: Caramel macchiato, americano, sandwich menu
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $4-$6 per sandwich

7. Basta (Best for Meeting Other Digital Nomads)

Basta is one of the best Split cafes to meet other remote workers and spend a productive few hours. It’s not the best spot for calls, but if you simply want to work on your laptop, it’s a sound choice. This spot is also by the water and offers amazing views and a relaxing vibe.

The coffee here is delicious, and the lunch menu is top quality too, with beautiful salads, burgers, and sandwiches to keep you fueled up. The only downside is that weekends can get particularly busy so I’d recommend working from this cafe on weekdays only.

Basta Information

Address: Obala kneza Branimira 1a, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 91 333 3693
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 8 am – 12 am, Friday – Saturday, 8 am – 1 am
Must-Try Items: Cappuccino, mocha, salad
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $6-$10 per main, $3 for desserts
Website: www.basta.bar/split

8. Kava 2 (Best for a Range of Coffees)

Kava is a chain of coffee shops across Croatia and, for me, Kava 2 is one of the best cafes in Split for remote workers. It’s so comfortable, and I spent a few hours there without any problems whatsoever. The WiFi is impressively fast, and the space itself isn’t too loud but has enough ambiance to be entertaining.

The coffee menu is huge, but they also have a great selection of fresh juices—ideal for hot days. You can choose to sit on the outdoor terrace with shade or indoors, and although there isn’t a huge amount of seating, it doesn’t tend to get overcrowded. There are also some charging spots dotted around.

Kava 2 Information

Address: Ul. Ante Starčevića 2/1, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 98 602 220
Operating Hours: Monday – Wednesday, 7 am – 7 pm, Thursday – Sunday, closed
Must-Try Items: Latte, macchiato, fresh fruit juices
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $2-$4 per juice, $3 for desserts
Website: www.kava.family

9. The Box (Best for Quiet)

The Box is one of the most unique cafes in Split, and it’s located within a shady area with trees, that give it a ‘hidden away’ vibe. It’s a popular spot for digital nomads, and there are plenty of tables to choose from. I found this to be a pretty quiet area to get some work done, but the overall vibe of the place was very relaxing.

I sat for a few hours here and enjoyed a couple of coffees; their flat white was delicious, and they also had a small cake menu to choose from. This cafe is also very close to the main bus station so it’s easy to get back to your apartment or hostel after a day of work. It’s also set within a nice place for walking, ideal for burning off the calories from the cake!

The Box Information

Address: Poljička cesta 39, 21000, Split, Croatia
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 7 am – 12 am, Saturday – Sunday, 8 am – 12 am
Must-Try Items: Flat white, cappuccino, cake menu
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte/cappuccino, $3 for desserts

10. Adriatic Grašo (Best for Dog Owners)

If you’re looking for dog-friendly cafes in Split which are also laptop-friendly, I recommend Adriatic Grašo. Not only does this cafe have amazing views over the marina, but it’s also really laid-back and ideal for doing a spot of work with your furry friend by your side.

I visited this cafe a few times during the day, and there were many other digital nomads there. It’s a comfortable place, and the outdoor area has lots of shade and comfortable seating. The menu is also large, and they cook up some great food.

The only downside is that around dinner time it can get quite busy with people wanting to sit and have their evening meal. For that reason, I’d recommend sticking to mornings and afternoons if you want to work.

Adriatic Grašo Information

Address: Sustipanski put 2, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 21 398 560
Operating Hours: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 1 am
Must-Try Items: Latte, iced mocha, chocolate soufflé,
Average Cost: $2-$4 per latte, $7-$15 per main, $5 for desserts
Website: www.restaurantadriatic.com

Split Cafes and Coffee Shops FAQs

Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions about the best cafes and coffee shops in Split, Croatia:

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