Split

At first glance, Split looks like a beautiful little tourist town, built around the wonderful Diocletian palace. But it's nothing of the sort - this is Croatia's second largest city, a vibrant hub connecting the mainland Dalmatian coast to the hip islands, just off the shore, and the place to uncover an authentic modern Dalmatian experience. As well as promenade the gorgeous Adriatic seafront and see the historic sights. It features a wide range of accommodation and our pick of the best places to stay in Split vary from a budget hostel to stylish Old Town luxury.

Split's Old Town does look like a beautiful little tourist town, historic buildings, cafes, restaurants and boutiques all snuggled in within the city's Roman walls. And the recently renovated seafront makes the picture, surrounded by dramatic coastal mountains, that much more enchanting when you're arriving or leaving via ferry.

Within Split's ancient walls the old layout of squares in front of temples can still be seen today. You'll probably want to start by exploring the palace, which was built for a retired Roman emperor and is actually more of a small suburb than a palace, complete with its own shops and housing. It's about 200metres square in size and the complex has about 220 buildings within its walls. Make sure you explore the basement halls as well - some are empty, but some house fascinating exhibitions.

After that stroll through the cathedral of St. Domnius, visit the synagogue, the third oldest in Europe, and visit Varos, one of the oldest parts of town.

For more outdoor sightseeing visit the seafront, Marjan hill and the beach at Ba?vice.

Many of Split's visitors are just passing through on their way to the islands. There are several ferries a day to and from Hvar, Brac, Solta, Vis and Kor?ula.

Even if you're not using Spilt as a gateway it's worth taking a ferry trip - both because the views of Split as you come and go are some of the best you can get of this photogenic city, and because the islands themselves are definitely worth a visit as well.

• Hvar has the fertile vineyards, gorgeous beaches and medieval towns;
• Brac is lush with pines and figs and is known for its clear waters;
• Kor?ula, the largest, is loved by cyclists; Solta is well developed and very welcoming,
• and Vis has more of those lovely, sandy bays and beaches.

As well as ferries to the islands, you can also come in and out of Split via ferry from Dubrovnik and Rijeka, and Pescara in Italy.

Split has a reputation for being sunny all year round, with relatively mild winters. So if you're looking for a sunny, but cultural winter break, Split is a good option. If you come during the cooler months you'll also find it much easier to book a room in one of the best places to stay in Split.

For families

• The Divota Apartment Hotel is definitely one of the best places to stay in Split for families or groups. A stylish collection of rooms, apartments and a three bedroom house, it is perfectly situated for exploring the city.

For those on a budget

• Who says cheap accommodation has to be grotty? At the Design Hostel Goli + Bosi you'll find a range of incredibly inexpensive yet stylish rooms. Plus a fantastic pizzeria! Prices start from just €20 per person if you're in one of the dorms.

For location

• Hotel Marmont is close to both the seafront and the heart of the Old Town. It boasts contemporary chic rooms encased in a beautiful 15th century shell, plus outside terrace and busy cocktail bar.
• Hotel Vestibul Palace is situated in the heart of the Diocletian Palace. One of the best places to stay in Split if you're looking for a spot of luxury combined with contemporary interiors located bang in the centre of the old town.
• The Judita Palace Hotel is also ideally placed for those who want to be immersed in Split's historic zone. Expect exposed stone walls and creamy furnishings in the stylish rooms and suites.

Still not sure which is the best place to stay in Split for you? Browse through our list of all the best places to stay in Split, or contact, one of our friendly gurus for advice.