As a second largest city in Croatia, Split is also the capital of Dalmatia region and an important administrative and economic centre. It is a major tourist spot of the eastern Adriatic coast as well, offering to its visitors alluring mixture of rich historical and cultural heritage, relaxed Mediterranean way of life but also atmosphere of a modern and busy European harbour.
Since it is located on a larger peninsula Split has rather lengthy coastline with several modern marinas, hence making it a common starting point for a holiday cruise among inviting islands of central Dalmatian archipelago. However, many sailors often make a mistake and immediately after the embarkation sail away towards the islands, not knowing it is well worth to stay for a day or two and explore all the hidden treasures of this ancient Mediterranean pearl.

Split is world-famous for its historical centre mostly known as Diocletian’s Palace, built at the beginning of 4th century as the well fortified and massive fortress for the Roman Emperor Diocletian which had function of his retirement residence. But according to historians settlement is actually much older and dates back to 4th century BCE when ancient Greeks founded there colony of Aspálathos, from which derived the name Split.
Still today visitors can have a look at the numerous well preserved parts of the palace that have retained almost original form, such as impressive stone facade with grand arches and columns facing the sea, four city gates with belonging towers, the Emperor’s mausoleum today Cathedral of St. Domnius, temple of Jupiter, entrance court Vestibule and central square Peristyle, as well as vast cellars. The palace is today under UNESCO protection and is mostly built of high-quality limestone and marble from quarries on the nearby island of Brač.

But Split is today much more than just Diocletian’s Palace and it can offer a plenty of other attractions for a modern explorer, to mention only few: several beautiful pebble, sandy or rocky beaches, lengthy waterfront serving as a popular promenade, countless charming bars and restaurants, many museums and galleries, diverse tiny shops, lively market, and so forth…
Just a few minutes walk from bustling centre is a large recreational forest on the nearby hill of Marjan, offering calming greenery but also marvellous panoramic views over the city and surrounding islands. Those islands that are waiting the boat to set sail into new, exciting adventure.