Croatia carnage

Hvar

The nightlife in Hvar is a bit dodgy. There are a few bars in Stari Grad, near the port where the ferry comes in. I was travelling alone, so joined the hostel nightly bar crawl, which started at Nautica bar every night. There are some other bars nearby but it can be a bit strange for a traveller as Hvar is really geared towards family holidays from what I could see. 

The fortress was well worth a visit, but the best thing to do is take a day trip to one of the islands right next door. Rent a little motor boat from the harbour round the corner from the main port, for up to 4 people. We did so, and pootled off to the islands nearby in search of the near empty beaches I had heard about. After a scare with the motor cutting out, and us drifing out to sea temporarily, we did indeed make it to a secluded beach on an island directly facing the main town of Stari grad. It's a good day adventure for sure. 

Split

Split is all about the roman ruins in the centre of the city. They are huge and a functioning complex of shops and cafes exists within. Although I couldn't figure out much else to really recommend in Split. The daily "announcement" by a roman emperor, flanked by roman guards in the centre of the ruins, attracts a big crowd and is worth catching. 

Zagreb

Zagreb city centre is a lot nicer than you might imagine. I spent a couple days wondering round its suprisingly chilled streets, with trams chuntering slowly by. Take a short hike up to upper town and take in the gorgeous roof of St Marks Church and a great view of the city. Take a stroll in the botanic gardens. I recommend the Museum of Illusions. 

There is plenty of nightlife too in the upper town area. I must say the night life and the city in general was the best of Croatia that I came across in the trip.