Spilt, Croatia at night ()
Known as the “land of a thousand islands,” Croatia is a country filled with beautiful beaches, awe-inspiring natural parks and picturesque cities. Of these cities, Split is one that needs to be put on your Croatian to-do list. While you can spend days here, 48 hours in this timeless city will be enough to get you hooked to come back.
Day 1
When visiting a destination for a limited amount of time, it’s best to head to the must-visits and popular landmarks on the first day, that way you can be certain you won’t run out of time to see them. Diocletian’s Palace is among the highlights to see on the first day. Dominating over the Old Town, the historical landmark was built for Diocletian, the Roman empire. This luxurious fortress consists of three temples, a mausoleum and a courtyard.
Since you’re already in the Old Town, spend some time meandering the car-free, cobblestone streets and absorb Split’s history by taking in the Renaissance buildings. Be sure to stroll along Marmontova Street, a charming street peppered with restaurants and shops. Other highlights include St. Dominus Cathedral, Jupiter’s Temple and the Bell Tower.
Day 2
Now that you’ve had some time to be awestruck by Split’s beautiful must-sees, it’s time to enjoy the views, off-the-beaten path secrets and food. For jaw-dropping views, hike up Marjan Hill. Dotted with pine and cypress trees, you can see a panoramic view of the city. To escape the city crowd, dip your toes in the waters of Bačvice, Split’s closest beach. This sandy beach has inviting crystal-clear waters and is a spot the locals like to lounge in.
For those who enjoy all things food, head to the fish market located in the center of Diocletian’s Palace. You’ll see many locals browsing and shopping for the catch of the day. To get a taste of Split’s fresh seafood, be sure to try “Crni Rižot,” or black risotto. The risotto gets its color from squid ink. After you’ve had your fill of Split’s delicious seafood, it’s best to enjoy the rest of the night strolling through the city’s harbor, watching the ships and ferries come and go.
