Last year, in October I took my first trip abroad in 2021…and decided to go to Croatia, all by myself, and not just in one city but three… My second stop was Split
I haven’t been in whole Croatia but Split became my favourite city in that Mediterranean country, deciding among three places that I had visited in my one and a half week time’ holidays. Just 10 minutes’ walk after the bus station you can see the beautiful seafront with small boats, restaurants and coffee shops. It is called Riva. Even just watching it makes you feel relaxed…
Elis Puusik
In Split I was staying in the old part of town which is very close to the bus station. I walked to the accommodation and have to admit it was difficult walk because there are very stony roads in the old town. So, if you come in with a big luggage it will be quite challenging. I stayed in the very beautiful apartment on the second floor, which was also studio type.
Elis Puusik
The host was lovely, like the one in Dubrovnik, she showed me on the map all the spots and all the good restaurants nearby. I had a lovely view from my window and even took photos in the morning, during sunrise.
Elis Puusik
I spent in Split three days and they went very quickly. First day I was kind of wandering around. I went to the mall which was quite far from my room but I enjoyed to walk to see another side of the city. Then I also went to the park nearby, where I had the great view. In my opinion the best food spots were definitely in Split and also the coffee shops.
Elis Puusik
The most exciting day was the second one, when I met with my friend Lana back from my university days. We met at UNI in England few years ago. It was amazing opportunity to meet her after so many years. We spent nice time together. Although that day I was feeling weak and sick, I couldn’t miss this opportunity to meet my dearest friend from the past. So we went for a walk and drinks, enjoying beautiful sunny autumn day by the coast. Still I feel very grateful. I would like to take opportunity and ones more highlight incredible hospitality in Croatia. The approach of the people warmed up my heart every time.
Elis Puusik
On my third day in Split I had finally planned to go for at least one tour during my whole trip in Croatia. It was mix excursion of ‘Game of Thrones’ sites and the history. I was really curious how the tour guide would mix this things, but the tour was a great surprise, to be honest.
Elis Puusik
Moreover, it was my first private excursion, which I did not planned to be private. Just for this day and time I was the only guest. Extremely lucky! The guide was showing me the scenes she had in her album. It was great analogy between what you see and the pictures (screenshots) from the scenes. It is unique experience to stand on places where the serial has been filmed. Also I took the opportunity during the tour and asked many questions. We went to the one of the most interesting places in palace – The Cave where Daenerys hold her Dragons and of course I took the photos there.
Elis Puusik
However, besides my excitement, I felt a bit sad during the tour because of noticing how such a beautiful historical place disintegrates. It is required a lot of care, in order to preserve the palace. I wish the government and also the local instances would take more care of the palace and what is left from it.
Elis Puusik
At the same day I went to the one of the highest spots in Split – to the Marjan hill, with the amazing panoramic view. I would totally recommend to visit this viewpoint to everyone. Breath-taking! The hiking there it’s quite of a challenge but it’s totally worth it. It is great exercise as well. I love hiking in general, so for me it was my typical tourist activity. I would say, I wish I have stayed more time in Split. It is definitely now one of my favourite spots in Europe!
By: Elis Puusik