After sharing about the beautiful city of Dubrovnik, Croatia, in my previous post, this time we’ll explore other charming cities — Split, Zadar, and Zagreb. It’s a pity we only managed to spend a couple of days in this wonderful country, as there’s still so much more to see and do. I would gladly return to Croatia to discover more places and experience more activities. For now, I’ll let the photos speak for themselves.
Split
Split, Croatia, is a captivating blend of ancient history and lively Mediterranean charm. At its heart lies the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling Roman complex that still pulses with life, its ancient stone walls now housing bustling cafés, boutique shops, and hidden courtyards. As you wander the maze-like streets, you’ll find yourself moving seamlessly between centuries, from Roman cellars to medieval alleyways and modern waterfront promenades.
Framed by the glittering Adriatic Sea and backed by rugged mountains, Split is more than just a gateway to Croatia’s famed islands; it’s a destination worth lingering in. The Riva promenade is perfect for a morning coffee or evening stroll, while Marjan Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Whether you’re here for history, food, or seaside vibes, Split’s mix of culture, scenery, and energy will make you want to return again and again. It is also one of my favourite cities in Croatia.
Attractions
Diocletian's Palace
Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia, is one of the most remarkable Roman monuments still standing today and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Built in the 4th century as the retirement residence of Emperor Diocletian, the palace is a massive fortress-like complex that blends imperial luxury with military strength. Its sprawling walls, grand gates, and impressive Peristyle courtyard speak of Roman grandeur, while underground cellars and narrow stone streets whisper centuries of history.
What makes Diocletian’s Palace truly unique is that it’s not just a preserved ruin — it’s the living heart of Split. Within its ancient walls, you’ll find vibrant cafés, local shops, museums, and even homes, creating a fascinating harmony between past and present.
Wandering through its alleys feels like stepping through a time portal, where Roman columns, medieval architecture, and modern life coexist seamlessly.
Several scenes for “Game of Thrones” were shot here, most notably the ones where Daenerys' dragons are chained in the dungeon. This historic site, built in the 3rd century, is where Daenerys spends time in her throne room and trains her dragons.
Peristil Square
Peristil Square is a breathtaking open courtyard that once served as the ceremonial centre of the emperor’s residence. Surrounded by majestic Corinthian columns and framed by grand archways, it was here that Emperor Diocletian presented himself to his subjects, blending imperial power with architectural elegance.
The square’s white limestone and marble create a striking backdrop, especially under the golden glow of the Dalmatian sun.
Golden and Silver Gates
The Golden Gate (Porta Aurea) and the Silver Gate (Porta Argentea) are two of the four grand entrances to Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia, each with its own charm and historical significance.
The Golden Gate, once the main ceremonial entrance, is the most ornate and impressive, symbolising the emperor’s prestige. In Roman times, this was the passage through which honoured guests and imperial visitors entered, flanked by massive towers and adorned with intricate stonework. Today, it stands as a proud reminder of Split’s ancient glory, leading directly into the palace’s northern section.
Diocletian’s Palace Cathedral
Officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Domnius (Sveti Duje), it is one of Split’s most iconic landmarks and the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world still in use in its original structure. Originally built in the 4th century as the mausoleum of Emperor Diocletian, it was later transformed into a Christian church in the 7th century, dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Domnius.
The cathedral’s blend of Roman imperial architecture with later medieval additions creates a fascinating harmony of styles, telling the story of Split’s transformation from a Roman stronghold to a Christian city.
Details
Location : 21000, Grad, Split, Croatia.
Business hours : Open 24 hours
Admission fees : Free
Food
Gelateria Vocni Trg
Gelateria Voćni Trg, located in the charming Fruit Square (Voćni Trg) of Split, is a sweet retreat for anyone craving a refreshing treat in the city’s historic core.
Surrounded by centuries-old stone buildings and lively cafés, this gelateria offers a variety of artisanal gelato flavours, from rich chocolate and creamy pistachio to fruity sorbets bursting with freshness. Its prime location makes it the perfect stop for cooling down after exploring nearby landmarks like Diocletian’s Palace or the bustling Riva promenade.
Details
Location : Trg Braće Radić, 21000, Split, Croatia.
Business hours : Daily (9.00am - 12.00am)
Konoba More
Konoba More in Split is a charming, family-run restaurant that captures the essence of traditional Dalmatian dining.
Tucked away from the bustling tourist crowds, it offers a warm and inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy authentic Croatian cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features classic Dalmatian specialities, all cooked with a homemade touch that reflects the region’s culinary heritage.
Details
Location : Poljička cesta 22, 21000, Split, Croatia.
Business hours : Mon - Sat (7.30am - 11.00pm) ; Sun (9.30am - 11.00pm)
Accomodation
Hotel Mondo
 |
| ( Photo credit to Booking.com ) |
 |
| ( Photo credit to Booking.com ) |
Details
Location : Kopilica ul. 5, 21000, Split, Croatia.
Cost per night : RM589++
Attractions
Plitvice National Park
Beyond its iconic lakes and waterfalls, Plitvice is also home to diverse flora and fauna, including deer, bears, wolves, and rare bird species. The park offers trails of varying difficulty, making it accessible for families while still providing adventure for avid hikers.
Visiting Plitvice feels like stepping into a fairytale, where every turn reveals another hidden cascade or shimmering pool. It’s no wonder this park is considered a must-see destination when exploring Croatia.
Details
Business hours : Daily (7.00am - 8.00pm)
Admission fees : Range from €10 to €40 for a one-day adult ticket (depending on the season)
Accomodation
Etno Garden
Etno Garden is a charming accommodation complex located near Plitvice Lakes National Park, designed to give visitors a taste of authentic Croatian village life. Surrounded by lush greenery and traditional wooden cottages, it blends rustic charm with modern comfort, making it a cosy retreat after a day of exploring the park.
The property features spacious rooms and apartments decorated in a warm, country style, perfect for families, couples, or groups. It's like the cabin in the woods.
What makes Etno Garden truly special is its peaceful atmosphere and cultural touch. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurant, relax in the beautiful gardens, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings.
Its proximity to Plitvice National Park makes it an ideal base for nature lovers, while the traditional setting offers a memorable experience of Croatian heritage and hospitality.
Details
Location : Plitvica selo 58, 53231, Plitvička Jezera, Croatia.
Cost per night : RM815++
Food
Zigante Tartufi Shop & Gourmet Restaurant
Zigante Tartufi Shop & Gourmet Restaurant blends a gourmet dining experience with a speciality truffle shop, nestled in the heart of Istria. Patrons can savour a rich menu centred around fresh black and seasonally rare white truffles, from finely crafted starters like carpaccio to homemade pasta and even truffle-infused desserts.
In tandem, the adjoining shop showcases an impressive assortment of truffle-based products, such as oils, sauces, spreads, cheeses, and preserves, as well as fresh truffles during the appropriate season. Many visitors highlight the knowledgeable, friendly staff and the chance to sample items before purchase, making it both a culinary destination and a sensory discovery. We bought some truffle dark chocolate, truffle risotto and chips.
Details
Location : Livade 7, 52427, Livade, Croatia.
Business hours : Daily (9.00am - 10.00pm)
Zadar
Zadar is a beautifully layered destination where ancient history meets contemporary creativity. Nestled on Croatia’s northern Dalmatian coast, the city’s well-preserved medieval core with its Roman forum, Byzantine-era St. Donatus Church, stately city walls, and Venetian-influenced architecture invites leisurely exploration through cobbled streets and tranquil squares. Add to that the modern marvels : the Sea Organ, which turns the gentle ebb and flow of the Adriatic into haunting melodies, and the shimmering “Greeting to the Sun”, a solar-powered art installation that lights up the waterfront after dusk, and you’ll find Zadar’s seafront to be one of the most poetic settings in Europe.
Attractions
Sea Organ
The Sea Organ (Morske orgulje) in Zadar is a unique architectural and musical masterpiece that transforms the rhythm of the Adriatic Sea into a hauntingly beautiful symphony.
Designed by architect Nikola Bašić and opened in 2005, the installation features a series of marble steps that descend into the water, beneath which 35 pipes of varying lengths and diameters are concealed. As waves and tides push air through these pipes, they create an ever-changing, harmonic soundscape like nature itself playing an instrument.
Details
Location : Obala kralja Petra Krešimira IV, 23000, Zadar, Croatia.
Business hours : Open 24 hours
St. Donat Church
The Church of St. Donatus is one of Zadar’s most iconic landmarks and a striking example of early medieval architecture in Croatia. Built in the 9th century under the guidance of Bishop Donatus, after whom it is named, the church is renowned for its massive circular structure, simple stone façade, and imposing presence that dominates Zadar’s old town.
Standing atop the remains of the ancient Roman forum, it beautifully illustrates the city’s blend of Roman heritage and medieval Christian tradition.
Although no longer used for regular worship, St. Donatus is celebrated today as a cultural monument and a venue for concerts, thanks to its exceptional acoustics. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted by a stark yet powerful interior that reflects both its age and endurance.
Together with the surrounding forum ruins, the church remains a timeless symbol of Zadar’s rich history and spiritual legacy.
Details
Location : Grgura Mrganića, 23000, Zadar, Croatia.
Business hours : Daily (9.00am - 10.00pm)
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum in Zadar is the largest forum in Croatia and a fascinating reminder of the city’s ancient past. Commissioned by the first Roman Emperor Augustus in the 1st century BC, it once served as the civic and religious heart of the Roman colony of Iader.
Today, visitors can still see remnants of temples, colonnades, and stone pavements, as well as preserved columns that stand as silent witnesses to centuries of history.
Located in the heart of Zadar’s Old Town, the forum seamlessly blends into the modern cityscape, surrounded by cafés, shops, and landmarks such as St. Donatus Church.
Walking among its ruins offers a glimpse into daily life during the Roman era, while also highlighting how Zadar has evolved through time from an ancient settlement to a vibrant coastal city that still honours its deep historical roots.
Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is a vibrant city where Austro-Hungarian elegance meets a lively, modern spirit. Beyond its historic core, Zagreb thrives as a cultural hub with theatres, galleries, and festivals year-round. The city is also renowned for its café culture, where locals take pleasure in savouring coffee on lively terraces. With Mount Medvednica nearby for outdoor escapes and a welcoming atmosphere throughout, Zagreb offers a perfect balance of history, culture, and everyday charm.
Attractions
Gornji Grad
Gornji Grad, or the Upper Town of Zagreb, is the city’s historic heart and one of its most atmospheric districts. Perched on a hill overlooking the capital, it’s a maze of cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and charming squares that transport visitors back in time. Highlights include the iconic St. Mark’s Church with its vividly tiled roof, the Lotrščak Tower, where a cannon is fired daily at noon, and the Stone Gate, a centuries-old passage that now serves as a shrine.
Strolling through Gornji Grad feels like walking through an open-air museum, yet it’s full of life with cosy cafés, artisan shops, and hidden courtyards. As the seat of Croatia’s parliament and government, it’s both historically significant and culturally vibrant, offering visitors a perfect blend of heritage, charm, and local character.
Kaptol
Kaptol is one of the oldest and most historic parts of Zagreb, known as the spiritual and religious heart of the city. Dominated by the majestic Zagreb Cathedral, its skyline is instantly recognisable with soaring twin spires that can be seen from miles away. Dating back to the Middle Ages, Kaptol was once a separate settlement from neighbouring Gornji Grad, with its own walls, towers, and ecclesiastical institutions. Today, it remains a centre of faith and tradition, where history and daily life seamlessly intertwine.
The area around Kaptol is lively yet steeped in heritage. Visitors can stroll through charming squares, explore the Archbishop’s Palace, or wander into the bustling Dolac Market, just steps away, where locals shop for fresh produce and flowers. With its mix of sacred landmarks, vibrant markets, and centuries-old stories, Kaptol offers a fascinating glimpse into Zagreb’s cultural and spiritual roots.
Donji Grad
Donji Grad, or the Lower Town of Zagreb, is the city’s elegant 19th-century district, known for its grand squares, leafy parks, and impressive Austro-Hungarian architecture. Designed in a horseshoe-shaped layout called the “Green Horseshoe,” this area is lined with museums, galleries, and cultural institutions, making it the vibrant cultural core of the city. Highlights include Ban Jelačić Square, the bustling central hub, and landmarks such as the Croatian National Theatre and the Art Pavilion. We got to ride the funicular as well.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Donji Grad is full of life, cafés spill out onto wide boulevards, markets buzz with local produce, and seasonal events bring the streets alive. Whether you’re exploring its cultural treasures, shopping along Ilica Street, or simply strolling through its landscaped parks, Donji Grad offers a perfect mix of sophistication, energy, and everyday Zagreb charm.
Since my eyebrow pencil ran out during the trip, I quickly restocked it when I spotted a CHANEL store. I also managed to pick up a lipstick.
Arena Centar
Arena Centar in Zagreb is one of Croatia’s largest and most modern shopping destinations, offering a dynamic mix of retail, dining, and entertainment under one roof. Located next to the striking Arena Zagreb sports hall, the mall features over 200 stores, ranging from international fashion brands to local favourites, along with a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, and casual dining spots.
Since all the shops were closed on Sunday, we just wandered around the grocery store. We picked up some snacks and baby products for my little one.
I was so happy to see so many HiPP products available here, because back in my country, they only sell the formula, which my baby girl is currently consuming.
Details
Location : Ul. Vice Vukova 6, 10020, Zagreb, Croatia.
Business hours : Daily (9.00am - 9.00pm)
Accomodation
Hotel Kaj
 |
| ( Photo credit to Hotel Kaj ) |
Hotel Kaj, located in the picturesque town of Marija Bistrica near Zagreb, is a modern four-star hotel known for its relaxing atmosphere and excellent hospitality. Surrounded by the gentle slopes of the Zagorje hills, it offers a peaceful escape while still being within easy reach of the capital. The hotel features comfortable, contemporary rooms, a wellness and spa centre, and conference facilities, making it suitable for both leisure and business travellers.
 |
| ( Photo credit to Booking.com ) |
One of Hotel Kaj’s highlights is its gourmet restaurant, which blends traditional Zagorje flavours with modern culinary techniques, often showcasing locally sourced ingredients. Whether you’re visiting for a wellness retreat, a culinary experience, or as a base to explore northern Croatia’s cultural and natural treasures, Hotel Kaj provides a warm and inviting stay in a serene setting.
Details
Location : Zagrebačka ul. 42, 49246, Marija Bistrica, Croatia.
Cost per night : RM600++ breakfast included
Okie dokie, that’s all for my Croatia travelogue. Next, I’ll be editing my Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Slovenia travel vlogs before I start blogging about them. Till then!
Travel Vlog
( Subscribe to my YouTube Channel : TheShinilola )
#ShiniInCroatia
For more photos, search the hashtag #ShiniInCroatia on Instagram. There, you can also find additional details about my personal experiences during the trip.
0 comments