Look no further than Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast for a unique seaside escape. It is an excellent place to unwind and explore during the summer months. With stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, lush verdant landscapes, and picturesque towns, Croatia is a must-visit destination, and the vibrant city of Split is a perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture, cuisine, and history.
Centrally situated, Split is the largest of Croatia’s coastal towns, and is a fantastic gateway to the Adriatic Islands. Split is also an ideal stopping point when traveling along the coast of Croatia. Once there, choose an accommodation near the old town where you can easily walk through its pristine, winding streets, enjoy a bounty of local restaurants, visit cultural attractions, and browse the many charming shops.
Dating back to the time of Greek colonization and later the rule of the Roman Empire, Split is steeped in history and preserved ancient architecture, which you can still witness in the old city.
Visit Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, comprising approximately half of the old town. Built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian as a residential and military complex, it now serves as a “living museum,” it is undoubtedly the heartbeat of the old town.
With people still living and working inside the palace walls, a visit allows you to experience life inside this ancient fortified town. Here, you will discover quaint, hidden courtyards and squares lined with wonderful restaurants, quirky shops, and local cafes. Look out for the surviving Egyptian sphinxes still displayed in the palace. Take a moment to relax on the steps of the Peristyle, the palace’s central courtyard, where you can often watch local concerts and performances, or climb to the top of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for magnificent views of the sea and town.
Exit the Palace’s Golden Gate and enjoy a peaceful moment in Strossmayer Park, and for breathtaking views, visit Marjan Hill, a vast park found at Split’s highest point. Wander its many walking trails, look over ancient cliff dwellings, or simply have a picnic under its shaded pine trees. In the evening, stroll along the bustling Riva waterfront for a spectacular view of the port, where you can watch the boats float by.
Beyond its historical importance, Split flawlessly balances old and new. There is a buzzy, young atmosphere here. With plenty of trendy wine bars and fusion restaurants expertly blending traditional Croatian cuisine with Asian, French, and Italian influences, there is always something fun to do after a day of exploring the sites.
Day trips from Split are also a great way to explore the Croatian coast. Visit Trogir, a small island village located about thirty minutes from the city center. Like Split, its old town is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Trogir is a charming village and favorite spot for its beautiful views, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. For relaxation, charter a boat and spend a day on the water. Motor or sail along the coast, visit the Blue Lagoon for a swim, head to Hvar Island for lunch, or stop at a local seaside vineyard for an unforgettable wine-tasting experience.
For the perfect 36-hour in Split itinerary, please get in touch with The Destination Designer for more information: www.thedestinationdesigner.com
