Split is a town that I thoroughly enjoyed visiting. I never had any real great desire to visit Croatia, however my fiancée’s grandmother is from Split and it’s one of her favourite cities. I’m always up for a new adventure, even to somewhere I’ve never given much attention to visiting, so off we went.
Split is everything that one thinks about when thinking about a Mediterranean city. Beautiful weather, beautiful beaches, vibrant, chilled town that parties (in a chilled out way of course) at night, fresh seafood, and plenty of opportunities to relax.
I spent a few days here, and could have easily spend a few more, chilling out and doing nothing.
Split is also one of the oldest cities on the Dalmatian coast, and the second largest city in Croatia. “Modern” Split is just over 1,700 years old counting from the construction of Roman Emperor’s Diocletian’s Palace in AD 305, however there has been settlement here since at least the 6th century BC (evidence of a Greek settlement from this time has been found).
There is a heavy Venetian influence throughout the UNESCO listed historical centre of Split’s Old Town, and the stone laneways, which open up into grand plazas are a wonder to explore.
Along with the historical sights, there are lots of little boutiques, cafes, restaurants and bars to discover. Some obvious to the naked eye, some hidden down smaller lane ways and side paths.
The whole town is very busy in the summer, with a great influx of tourists but unlike most places that I’ve been to in Europe, the tourists add to the vibe in a positive way. I think it’s because there’s nothing “touristy” to do as such. Everyone’s there just to chill out and it shows.
This was set up for, I don’t think any particular reason other than to practice. There was a wedding nearby but it didn’t look like this was set up for the specifically. Regardless, everyone who decided to sit and watch was treated to a free classical music concert. The music fit the location perfectly.
Split’s Old Town rewards those who look for more than the obvious. One strong word od advice is to look up. You’ll see whole other aspects of the city.
These motorised carts seem to be one of the most popular ways for people to delivery things to and from the various businesses in the Split’s Old Town.
