Flanked along an undulating stretch of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, Split personifies what’s possible when old-world ancient beauty meets the bustle of authentic, modern-day life. This is a port town where luxury yachts, boutiques and busy bars sit side-by-side – or even within – Roman palaces, churches and medieval castles, to simply magical effect, helped no end by the romantic daily routine of watching the sun set over the city. Once merely known as a convenient base to go on and explore some of the idyllic islands that lie within touching distance, Split has since been recognised as a top travel destination in its own right.
The main things to do on a luxury holiday in Split are popular for good reason and deserve their admiration during any visit. The crowning glory of those is the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, the private home of a Roman Emperor and today a place teeming with locals selling their wares, music and restaurants too; while the wider, walled Old Town has its own history stretching back through Byzantine, Italian, Venetian and Austrian rule across the centuries. The atmosphere this all creates is beguiling enough, but throw in the authenticity of local life, day trips to nearby islands and national parks, beaches, plus an outstanding gastronomic scene and you’ll soon see why split is so highly rated, by those in the know.