Founded by a Roman emperor wannabe who claimed to have descended from Jupiter, the seaside town of Split has been cranking out the goods for more than 1,700 years. Diocletian knew what he was doing building a city-sized palace along this dramatic strip of Croatia’s Dalmatian coast.
Start your exploration in the town’s ancient walled core, entering by the bronze, silver or gold gate. The walled palace is what makes Split so surreal, but there’s definitely more to this Croatian enclave. Stroll along the Riva, like everyone else, and have a coffee along the sidewalk while you people-watch; or put your toes in the water at one of the so-called beaches. The rest of Split isn’t too shabby either, with plenty of museums, art galleries and enough ancient landmarks to make your head spin. Be the first on your block to explore the wonders of this emerging tourist hotspot.