Best things to do in Split, Croatia

While organizing my photos the other day I came across these pics of Split, Croatia, and I realized that I had never shared them with you. It's a shame because it's a trully beautiful place. Two years ago we embarked on a cruise that took us around the Greek Islands but first we visited Venice and Split.

Split was a big surprise for us. We had heard a lot about Dubrovnik so we didn't thing Split had so much to see. We were wrong. Split is a lovely town and definitely a must if you visit Croatia.

Let's take a look at the very best things to do in Split

When I think about Croatia the first place that comes to mind is Dubrovnik. It has become a favorite among summer vacation destinations in recent years. However, when I found out that our cruise was stopping at Split instead I was intrigued. I had never heard about this city but I was happy to avoid the crowds in Dubrovnik. I tend to do the opposite of most people: if a place becomes popular, I prefer to go somewhere else.

Best things to do in Split: Diocletian's palace

Split did not disappoint. We fell in love with the mixture of ancient and modern history. It's actually the second largest city in Croatia, after Zagreb. Its #1 sight is Diocletian’s Palace, a Unesco World Heritage site and one of the world’s most impressive Roman monuments. The Palace was built in the 4th century as a military fortress. The narrow streets around it lead to courtyards and passageways where you can see locals hanging their laundry to dry or people watching amused by the increasing number of tourists that visit Split.

Best things to do in Split: find the prettiest cafes

The magic and charm of Split lie in its old town full of cool bars, cafés, lovely restaurants and shops amidst Roman walls. It is also surrounded by the most beautiful landscape with mountains as a backdrop and the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea on the waterfront.

Best things to do in Split: seafront & main square

The seafront promenade, Riva, is the other place to be. There are plenty of outdoor dining areas to sit down and enjoy a drink for hours.

Trg Republike (Republic Square) is another great spot to sip a coffee while people watching. The square, constructed in a Venetian style, is a well-renowned gathering point. Concerts and festivals are celebrated here.

There's also an interesting underground market called Podrum which is an old prison underneath Diocletian's Palace.

Finally, the Grgur Ninski Statue which honors the bishop that opposed the Pope and introduced the Croatian language into Catholic services. It is said that rubbing his toe brings good luck.

Split is not very big and you can see it on foot. My advice is to get lost among the stone-walled buildings to explore the city and find all the hidden gems.
xo Cristina

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