CROATIA: The Ultimate Utopia By Diane Kolanović-Šolaja
Sharing the Adriatic Sea with Italy, Croatia is the land of a thousand islands. Known for its crystal turquoise blue waters and breathtaking scenery, it also boasts a diversity in landscape, people and cuisine, beckoning travelers to explore the country in its entirety and revealing a medley of hidden beaches and bars, off-the-beaten-path views, an on-the-rise wine country and luxurious, worth-the-splurge surprises along the way.
Split, the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast,
is a vibrant shore town where vintage meets modern in the sweetest way. Start your evening with a walk along the sea promenade (“Riva”) and you will notice the modern architecture attached to century-old buildings. For dinner, enjoy delicious, local cuisine at Konoba Kod Joze. Only a five-minute walk outside of the Golden Gate (“Zlatna Vrata”), this traditional and intimate tavern is the perfect setting to share a big plate of seafood risotto, the house specialty.
SPLIT: TWO IF BY SEA
Photo credit: Split Tourism Board
WHERE TO STAY $
Split Apartments-Peric Hotel
$$
Divota Apartment Hotel
$$$ Hotel Luxe
But, for the most romantic walk of your life, upon sunset get lost within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace, which feels like a city within the city. If you have more than a day in Split, take advantage of the gorgeous port in front of you. Book a private boat cruise and island hop — Split is centrally located to some of the best isles in Croatia. For top catamaran tour information, contact Mateo Jurić of Water Polo Cruise Croatia. An ex-professional water polo player with a gorgeous fleet and healthy network of catamaran owners, Mateo is a mini-celebrity. A native of Split, he will be able to curate a special cruise just for your honeymoon that will make you want to stay in Croatia permanently.
SMART SPENDING: High season is between June and September. For a more budget-friendly honeymoon, consider going after Labor Day and before October 1. You will still have beautiful weather and no influx of tourists.