Head to the Dalmatian coast for host of activity, whatever you are into its collection of islands have something for you. Using Split as your base you can enjoy its local beaches or walk its cobbled streets learning about the regions local history, walk the scenes of award winning show Game or Thrones. Foodie lovers can try the local fish carpaccio with a glass of its local wines. There are activities for nature lovers and those who want an adrenalin kick.
1. WALK THE COBBLED STREETS
Sitting on Croatia's Dalmatian coast, Split - the country's second largest city is seriously pretty, with UNESCO-protected architecture and views of the Adriatic. Spend an afternoon wandering the cobbled streets to the sound of the runs singing at St Dominic's Church. Graba pre-dinner Ožujsko, (one of Croatia's favourite bar) at Lvxor, across from the steps of Peristil square and take in live guitar music. Spy the 20ft statue of Gregory of Nin outside the gate of Diocletians Palace, too. Legend has it that rubbing his big toe brings good luck.
2. STAY CLOSE TO THE BEACH
Bačvice is the closet beach to the city centre, and Split's only sandy stretch. Here you can watch people play Picigin, a Croatian game that involves stopping a ball from hitting the water. Set just off the sand and only a 10 minute walk from the city centre is Hotel Park. Lounge by the pool with a Mojito, and wake up to sea views. A 15 minutes walk down the coast are Split's finest and quietest beaches. Perch on the rocks of Zvonac and watch the swimmers in the clear water or you can join them.
3. GO ISLAND HOPPING
Brač, the largest of the Adriatic island, is a 50 minute ferry ride from Split. Take a hike up Vidova Gora mountain for breathtaking views then visit the ancient town of Škrip, where the island of Brač Museum sits on a Roman Mausoleum and has ruins worth exploring. Zlatni Rat is a pebbly beach that changes shape with the winds. West of Brač lies Solta island, a 60 minute ferry from Split.
4. ENJOY LOCAL WINES
To really understand the life of a Dalmatian, you need to drink like one. That involves a lot of white wine. Pošip, is Dalmatia's most popular local grape, produces a rich, full-bodied white. Head to Stina winery on Brač to experience the region's best or if you're more into red, try the Plavac Mali.
5. LOCATION FOR MOVIE FANS
Calling all Game of Thrones fans, to tour the backdrops of scenes from the show, check out Diocletian's Palace, Daenerys trained her dragons here. Head up the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for perfect views of Split, or go to nearby town Trogir and visit Saint Lawrence to see saintly artefacts and biblical icons sculpted all over the ceilings and walls.
6. GET AN ADRENALIN RUSH
Are you a thrill seeker? Hit nearby town of Omiš and hop on a raft on the Cetina river to see Croatian nature at its finest. Or try the 150m-high zip wire to carry you over the canyon (zipline-croatia.com). Closer to the city, Marjan hill looms over Split's peninsula at just under 180m. You can spend hours hiking the parks in Marjan, or hire a bike for the day, but be prepared for all the hills (rent-a-bike-split.com).