Split
Guide
Split, Makarska & Trogir Ancient Greeks and Roman emperors all chose to make their home here.We’re not surprised.
Split is a truly cosmopolitan city, often likened to Barcelona or Lisbon. Even if you are intending to travel onwards to the islands, and have time for just a brief visit, you should consider at least an excursion to this beautiful city – or perhaps stay for a couple of nights at the beginning or end of your holiday. Dalmatia’s largest city was founded by the Roman emperor Diocletian, who built his palace on the bay of Aspalathos. Here, after abdicating on the first of May in A.D. 305, he spent the last years of his life. The importance of Diocletian’s Palace far transcends just local significance. Its level of preservation and the variety of building during succeeding historical periods, makes it the very heart of the region. The Palace is one of the most famous and integral architectural and cultural constructions on the Croatian Adriatic coast and holds an outstanding place in Mediterranean, European and World Heritage. Split grew rapidly in the 7th century, when the inhabitants of the destroyed Græco- Roman metropolis of Salonæ (present-day Solin) took refuge within its walls. The lovely ruins of Salonæ, outside the city can still be explored today. Inevitably, modern Split, has also grown, but thoughtful planning has ensured that the historic nucleus of the city has preserved its unique character. The main Riva is made for promenaders – it’s a ‘people watcher’s’ paradise! 21st century Split, with its designer shops, cafés, bars and konoba – the best places to experience authentic Dalmatian specialities – is an exciting city with a vibrant nightlife; but most visitors will fall under the spell of its rich history and dynamic culture.
Travelling south down the main Adriatic Highway – through some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Croatia – will bring you to the resorts of the Makarska Riviera with its many pretty and justifiably popular resorts; Brela, Baska Voda, Tucepi, Podgora and Makarska. All have a special magic that brings visitors back year after year. Perhaps it’s the magnificent peaks of the Biokovo mountain range, dramatically hugging the coastline and forming a majestic backdrop to pine-fringed beaches, or the huge range of water sports available... Whatever your taste, the Makarska Riviera has so much to offer; and should your preferred location not feature in this brochure please call us or look on our website at www.hiddencroatia.com for a wide range of alternative options.
Settled by the Greeks as Tragurion in the 4th and 3rd centuries BC and now a UNESCO World Heritage site, this tiny medieval city has a rich culture derived from later Roman, Venetian and even Austrian influences. Enter the old city across the bridge, past the bustling fruit and flower market. Through the seventeenth century arch you’ll discover a labyrinth of streets and alleys. Sightseeing in Trogir is fascinating – but evenings in Trogir are to be treasured. Explore tiny shops whose entrances nestle within the thick stone walls, before the intoxicating aromas of Trogir’s many restaurants entice you in. Each corner you turn will bring you to tiny squares, filled with wooden tables laid for dining... Trogir is a delight.