There’s plenty to love about this historically rich and vibrant city.
When it comes to the Balkans, few places capture the regions' unique charm better than Split. Blending unique architecture, delectable cuisine and a heavy dose of history, there is plenty to discover within this remarkable city.
Discover one of Dalmatia’s most interesting destinations with our long weekend guide to Split.
Stay
Hotel Ambasador
With a prime vantage point overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Hotel Ambasador is a popular choice for travellers desiring the best of everything. Nailing the concept of ‘quiet luxury,’ the five-star outpost strikes the perfect balance of being upscale yet approachable, with plenty of refined details.
The hotel has been a fixture in Split since 1937, but recently underwent renovations and reopened in the summer of 2022. It pays homage to its history in a variety of visually captivating ways. Lobby walls depict black and white photographs captured by photographer Feđa Klarić. They feature scenes of Split life throughout the decades, blending past and present together artistically. Be sure to observe the reception desk as well, it's made from 1850-year old black oak and has been skilfully carved by Slavonian master carpenters.
With 101 rooms spread across six floors, the hotel offers ample opportunity for both city and sea views, (best enjoyed from bedroom windows and balconies). The lower level houses a gym and spa for guests to rejuvenate body and mind. And on the top floor, enjoy a few cocktails at the rooftop bar while soaking in the breathtaking view of the Dalmatian Coast and appreciating its sheer expanse.
In terms of location, the hotel occupies prime real estate. It boasts a direct path to the promenade, Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva esplanade on one side, with the port, beaches and Marjan forest on the other. It's the perfect base to explore each of the different parts the city has to offer. Speaking of which… onto the activities!
Split Guide is a brilliant tour operator, run by a lady named Dinah. Originally from Germany, Dinah visited and subsequently fell in love with Croatia, which is where she and her husband are now raising their two daughters. As an expat who has been so charmed by the land, she’s the perfect host for curious travellers looking to learn more. Dinah is a true fountain of knowledge and has such palpable passion for the city.
Split Guide offers a variety of activities, from walking tours to wine tastings, boat trips and day excursions. A walking tour is the perfect introduction to Split while also getting your bearings. Given its rich influences from various empires and cultures, there is a lot of information to absorb, making it great for history buffs.
Krka National Park is an enchanting mix of canyons, gorges and waterfalls. Inside, guests can enjoy the park at their own pace, embarking on various trails and discovering the natural landscape at leisure. The park has a real ‘choose your own adventure’ aspect, so it can be tailored to a variety of different needs and interests.
The Skradinski Buk Waterfall is one of the main attractions, offering a serene place to stop and admire nature in all its glory. On a warm day, there’s really no better place to soak in the beauty of Croatia!
One of the best ways to really absorb a new city is through the stomach. Inulding in the local cuisine is one way (more on that later), but having the opportunity to cook it yourself is something truly special.
On this tour with Bulić Rural Tourism, you'll travel through the Dalmatian Hinterland to the small village of Tugare, where you’ll meet your host Ljubica inside her traditional family house. Here, she’ll teach you how to make Soparnik, a savoury pie which sees swiss chard, onions, and parsley encased within very thin dough. Baked on an open hearth known as a ‘komin’, the result is incredibly crispy and flavourful. Ljubica is very sweet and knowledgeable so you’re guaranteed to leave with many insights alongside a full stomach.
With its five-star status, it should come as no surprise that Hotel Ambasador offers some of the best dining in the city. Méditerranée Restaurant is the hotel’s fine dining eatery, blending traditional Dalmatian flavours with distinctly modern flare.
Head Chef Ivica Katić is big on utilising local, seasonal produce which shines through in his dishes. Freshly caught fish is a mainstay on his menu, with the likes of seared tuna belly and poached hake on offer. The hotel’s sommelier is an expert in matching wines to each dish, you need only ask for his recommendation and he’ll find the right drop. Our table started the evening with a few glasses of the Galić Code sparkling white wine and it was delicious — juicy and fruity with notes of apple and peach.
Another fine dining favourite is Dvor Restaurant which has spectacular views of the Adriatic sea and nearby islands of Brac and Solta. Guests can choose to dine outside in the beautifully landscaped gardens, or enjoy a refined ambiance inside.
Fresh seafood is displayed for guests to view and even choose directly. Many of the dishes are wood-fired, which is evident in the flavour. For the indecisive, one of the restaurant's tasting menus is a brilliant way to sample a variety of flavours and showcase the culinary team’s skills.
For a truly authentic, Croatian dining experience, a visit to Konoba Vinko is a must. ‘Konoba’ is the Croatian word for tavern, which is exactly the rustic setting guests step into upon arrival. Serving up family recipes (some of which date back centuries), there’s a noticeable emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients.
The veal risotto is widely regarded as a must-try, as is the spit-roasted pig with a variety of sides. The tavern showcases a range of local wines as well, which are the perfect accompaniment to the earthy fare. It’s also just 4km away from Krka National Park making it the perfect stop for a late lunch on the way back to Split.
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