ROAD TRIP MONTENEGRO-CROATIA: DAY 5, SPLIT

Day 5 

Location: Split

 

We left the magical city of Dubrovnik (where I left my heart, too) and headed north, to Split - a distance of 204 km. After my mesmerizing experience at Dubrovnik I didn't think I would find a city equally picturesque in Croatia - but I did. Despite the fact that August is considered to be high season and there were large groups of tourists flooding the city day and night, the city kept its magical atmosphere.

It may have looked like an typical Mediterannean city at first but the moment I went through the entrance of the Medieval city, I travelled back in time; the Diocletian's Palace and stone-paved alleys, wide enought to fit just two people walking next to each other, travel you back to the Roman Age for good.
 

Inside that medieval, stone-paved maze, we got lost into magic. We made our way to the Diocletian's Palace - the breathtaking Roman Emperor's palace. I loved the little deli shops with their cute wooden windows, so welcoming you just couldn't help but enter. After that, we left the medieval part of the city through the bronze gate of Riva to explore more of the city's promenade. 
 

Prepare for long strolls at Riva after the sundown - a lot of enjoying the deep blue of the sea while drinking coffe and watching the endless passing-by of the locals and tourists; the heart of the city beats here. A lot of cafe's are located at this high-profile beach.

Our 24-hour stay at Split didn't allow us to take tours, go sight-seeing or visit any museums.
 

Instead we chose to feel the city's vibe and follow its rythm; tastes and smells lead us - not a Must-See list. Priority number one though, was to get some local food tips on where to eat. Huge success, as we ended up at one of the best fish restaurants I have ever visited.
 

It wasn't fancy or luxurious the conventional way but it did had the most delicious local menu. I tried a yummy traditional fish soup - yes, soup in summer and it was superb! The restaurant's name was Buffet Fife - or alternatively you can visit the equally great Konoba Varos with great local delicasies. You can thank me later!

 

It is the main beach of Split and it was not good. Totally understandable, if you think that same goes for every beach close to a city centre. I wouldn't recommend it - if you don't have enough time to visit a beach far from the city centre, then simply skip the beach.

 

As the sun went down, it was time for Split's nightlife to begin.

As my sprain was getting better by the day, we made it to Diocletian's Palace where the full moon and live music created an incredible scenery. Just let me give you a detailed description of this magical night. Think of the green windows of the medieval city all lighted up, calling you to get lost into the city's wonderful maze. Add the amazing music filling the air - as we got lucky and celebrations took place inside the Diocletian's Palace those days of August - and clapping hands in the air and you'll get a little piece of just how awesome this night was. One of the greatest moments of this trip that reminded me of how amazing road trips are.
 

If you're still wondering whether you should go on a road trip or not, then I got 10 reasons why you should plan one!
 

We closed our night at the Ghetto Bar, an artistic, alternative bar with lots of fantastic cocktails and great music. It's hidden deep inside the alleys but once you find it, a refreshing cocktail will be your reward.
 

Photos and a video of our summer party follow - enjoy!

See you at our next stop - Marco Polo's island, Korčula.