Split is a divided city. There are the narrow alleys inside the walls of the old palace complex – and then there is the Riva, the broad promenade outside. Both are amazing to explore, but I have really enjoyed soaking up the temperate autumn sun while walking the Malecón.
The iconic image of Split is the Riva. It’s southwest exposure is the sunniest spot.
Seat yourself at one of the many cafes or park benches to people watch, enjoy the view or await the dazzling show each afternoon when the sun drops below the horizon creating a sensational show of color.
Join me for a walk along Split’s waterfront…
A walk this direction will take you on a path around the Marjan Hill (pronounced ‘Maryan’) jutting out into the bay.
Pulsing with life: tourists, as well as locals are walking, jogging, biking, pushing baby buggies, and taking advantage of the walk along the waterfront while ferries, cruise ships, boats, and seaplanes regularly arrive and depart. I can only imagine how terribly crowded it must be during July and August.
At a park on the north side of the bay overlooking the marina and Split. Turning around we will return to the historic center.
Continue walking south along the Riva across the historic center of Split.
The marble city glows in the afternoon sunlight.
The belltower towers over the marble walls of Diocletian’s Palace. I’ll share all about the Palace complex next week.
The Riva is the place to take an afternoon stroll, what the Italians call the “passeggiata.” Continuing this direction we will find our way to the south side of the bay.
Men playing chess on the beach.
The walkway continues on down the coast to the city beaches.
Early November was still warm enough for swimmers and sunbathers.
Many coffee bars and restaurants are conveniently located along this walkway.
The red star marks our apartment. Moving left towards the water one will find a waterfront path that follows the coast around Marjan Hill (the green park on the map) around the small bay where historic Split is located, and continuing all the way to Znjan (far right.)
A hike up to the top of Marjan Hill offers a view over the city, the bay and the islands.
A cross atop Marjan Hill.
I’ll say it again. It is so beautiful.
Croatia is across the Adriatic Sea from Italy.
The illuminated Riva after dark.
Autumn has been a lovely time to visit Split. I haven’t grown weary of this very walkable and scenic city.
I’m thankful for you, my faithful friends and followers. Thanks for reading and commenting. Have a great Thanksgiving holiday!
Next week I’ll Meet You in the Morning to explore the other side of Split, inside the gates of the historic walled city and 4th-century palace complex.
Meet You In The Morning 
Excellent post on Split! I’m ready to go back for a return visit. I liked the maps you included as well. Gives the reader a good look at exactly where you’ve been.
LikeLike
Yes, you were right about Croatia! It’s been so lovely. We are going to Mostar and Kotor this week, maybe even to Albania. Thanks for your nice comments.
LikeLike
Wow. I haven’t grown weary of photos of Split! God’s Creation is simply amazing.
>
LikeLike
I hope Croatia is in your future!
LikeLike