Reasons to stay and see Split
Look at a map of Croatia. It’s like a big boomerang across the Adriatic from Italy. Head to the southern end along the sea. This is Dalmatia. And it is lovely. At the center of Dalmatia is the town of Split. It sits as the starting point for visits to the surrounding string of islands off shore. The Dalmatian Islands pull visitors from all over the world to their crystal blue waters.
But don’t jump on that ferry so fast. Stay. Linger awhile. There are many lovely reasons to not skip Split. We loved it.
11 Reasons to Not Skip Split | Croatia
1. FIND HISTORY AT Diocletian’s Palace
Split is 17 centuries old and you can see this history through the ages best at Diocletian’s Palace. Even if you aren’t an ancient Roman history buff and don’t care much for old emperors, you will be hard pressed to miss the Palace. The walls encircle the old city and give it a weighty sense of time.
2. MARVEL AT THE CATTEDRALE DI SAN DOMINO
The beautiful Romanesque bell tower of the Cattedrale di San Domino sits like a beacon in the middle of Split. Climb to the top for stunning views over the city, the surrounding seaside and all those orange tile roofs.
3. CLIMB THE BELL TOWER AT SUNSET
Warning: the climb might be a little scary for those with height issues. But the view from the top is worth the small price. Views out to the Riva and the Harbor and Park Marjan in the distance.
4. TAKE A STROLL on the RIVA
The Riva is the beautiful walking and cafe area along Split’s waterfront. It is most people’s first impression of the city. Find a beach and smell the salt air, but don’t eat here unless you are limited on time. These restaurants cater to tourists.
5. EAT fresh seafood AT A KONOBA
Croatian food is delicious. Being a coastal town, there is, of course, lots of seafood on the menus. Sit outside at a cafe in the Pjaca, or People’s Square. Or better yet, try the black risotto at a local Konoba.
6. SOAK UP THE SLOW LIFE ON THE PJACA | THE PEOPLE’S SQUARE
Walk through the winding alleys of Diocletian’s Palace and you’ll find yourself in the Pjaca. Familiarly known as the people’s square it is constantly bustling and full of life.
7. Wander the Waterfront
Down from the Riva, a harbor beckons. Take a walk along the water. Classic Croatian fishing boats line the way.
8. BASK IN THE SUN AT BAČVICE
A 10-minute walk from the old town and you can be at Bačvice Beach. A wide, flat shallow and sandy bay is perfect for littles. Or make your way down the pier and rent a lounger. Cold beverages and ice cream from the string of cafés can keep you fueled while soaking up the sun.
9. MAKE YOUR WAY TO MARJAN PARK
Just out of town and worthy of a hike is the beautiful Marjan peninsula. Swim clubs and beach cafés along the water make the effort worth it.
10. Meet the Locals
11. SWIM IN THE SEA
The water stays warm here until into the fall. The Adriatic Sea is lovely.
So stay. In Split. And see for yourself. It is a perfect place to start.
