Things to do in Split
Dive the best spots on the Dalmatian coast
The Dalmatian coast makes for some very special diving. The best spots are outside of Split, and operators like Venus (tel +385 21 895 167; hwww.venus-diving.com) can show you where. Vis is the highlight, with its famed Blue Grotto providing a thrilling experience. The island is also surrounded by a necklace of shipwrecks, making for challenging scuba diving.
Enjoy a day's stroll atop the Mosor mountain
Sometimes a summer stroll around Split can feel like hard work, but for outdoor types who want to hike the scenic surrounds a little sweat is worth the views. Mosor Mountain is a great day ramble, and is less than a 40-minute drive away. Split Adventure (tel +385 91 501 2913; www.splitadventure.com) offer this and other great walks.
Paddle to the Krka Waterfalls
The sea kayaking in and around the nearby islands is first rate. Visitors can paddle the warm waters to explore coves, bays and to pull up on deserted beaches. If you want to explore the inland waterways, Split Sea Kayaking (tel +385 98 858 141; http://splitseakayaking.com) run tours to Krka Waterfalls in the namesake national park.
Sail around 1,000 islands
Croatia is emerging as one of Europe's yachting hotspots and boasts over 1,000 islands for boats to explore. Split is a major sailing base and yachts can be hired out 'bareback' for those with full skipper qualifications. No less of a pleasure is a chartered boat. Sail Croatia (www.sail-croatia.com/yacht-charters) offers both.
Spend a day at the beach
Adriatic waters are renowned for their cleanliness, making swimming in Croatia a real pleasure. Split boasts a number of decent beaches, the most popular of which is Bačvice, just a 10-minute stroll from Diocletian's Palace. Zlatni Rat on the island of Brač is also a choice spot and one of Split's most famous beaches.