Premium Rome to Split

San Gimignano, a stunning medieval hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is often called the "Medieval Manhattan" due to its remarkable skyline of ancient towers. Encircled by 13th-century walls, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. As you stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic center, you'll be enchanted by the preserved Romanesque and Gothic architecture, from charming piazzas to grand churches. The Collegiata di San Gimignano, a Romanesque cathedral, is a must-visit, renowned for its vivid frescoes that depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, crafted by some of Italy's most celebrated artists of the 14th century.

San Gimignano's iconic skyline, once dotted with over 70 towers, was built by noble families competing for power and prestige during the Middle Ages. Today, only 14 towers remain, yet they still evoke the town's rich history and rivalries. Climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in town, for panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside, with its rolling vineyards and olive groves stretching to the horizon. The climb is well worth the effort, offering a bird's-eye view of the medieval rooftops and the distant hills.

The town is not just about history; it also offers a delightful culinary experience. San Gimignano is known for its locally produced white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, which has been celebrated since the Renaissance and was even praised by the likes of Dante and Michelangelo. Enjoy a glass of this crisp, golden wine at a local enoteca, paired with regional specialties such as saffron-infused dishes and wild boar ragu. For dessert, treat yourself to the world-famous gelato from Gelateria Dondoli, winner of multiple Gelato World Championships, located right in the heart of Piazza della Cisterna.

Fun fact: San Gimignano was an important stop along the Via Francigena, a major pilgrimage route that stretched from Canterbury to Rome in the Middle Ages. Pilgrims would rest and refresh in the town before continuing their arduous journey southward. Today, visitors can still walk part of this historic route, which winds through some of Tuscany's most breathtaking landscapes.

San Gimignano, a stunning medieval hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, is often called the "Medieval Manhattan" due to its remarkable skyline of ancient towers. Encircled by 13th-century walls, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a mesmerizing journey back in time. As you stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic center, you'll be enchanted by the preserved Romanesque and Gothic architecture, from charming piazzas to grand churches. The Collegiata di San Gimignano, a Romanesque cathedral, is a must-visit, renowned for its vivid frescoes that depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments, crafted by some of Italy's most celebrated artists of the 14th century.

San Gimignano's iconic skyline, once dotted with over 70 towers, was built by noble families competing for power and prestige during the Middle Ages. Today, only 14 towers remain, yet they still evoke the town's rich history and rivalries. Climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest tower in town, for panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside, with its rolling vineyards and olive groves stretching to the horizon. The climb is well worth the effort, offering a bird's-eye view of the medieval rooftops and the distant hills.

The town is not just about history; it also offers a delightful culinary experience. San Gimignano is known for its locally produced white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, which has been celebrated since the Renaissance and was even praised by the likes of Dante and Michelangelo. Enjoy a glass of this crisp, golden wine at a local enoteca, paired with regional specialties such as saffron-infused dishes and wild boar ragu. For dessert, treat yourself to the world-famous gelato from Gelateria Dondoli, winner of multiple Gelato World Championships, located right in the heart of Piazza della Cisterna.

Fun fact: San Gimignano was an important stop along the Via Francigena, a major pilgrimage route that stretched from Canterbury to Rome in the Middle Ages. Pilgrims would rest and refresh in the town before continuing their arduous journey southward. Today, visitors can still walk part of this historic route, which winds through some of Tuscany's most breathtaking landscapes.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, is one of Croatia’s most captivating natural wonders. Located in the heart of the country, this mesmerizing park is renowned for its cascading lakes, lush greenery, and a network of waterfalls that create an enchanting landscape. The park’s 16 terraced lakes, connected by a series of waterfalls, range in color from emerald green to sapphire blue due to the unique mineral content and the reflection of sunlight. Visitors can explore this fairy-tale setting through well-maintained wooden walkways that meander around the lakes, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

The park spans over 73,000 acres and provides diverse experiences for nature lovers. Hike through dense forests filled with beech, fir, and pine trees, or take a boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Kozjak, the park's largest lake. Adventurous visitors can also discover the park's lesser-known caves or climb to panoramic viewpoints such as the Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in Croatia, which plunges dramatically from a height of 78 meters. During winter, the park transforms into a snow-covered wonderland, where frozen waterfalls and tranquil, icy lakes offer a different but equally stunning spectacle.

The biodiversity of Plitvice Lakes is another aspect that makes it special. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including over 1,200 plant species, numerous bird species, and even large mammals such as brown bears, wolves, and lynxes. For those interested in birdwatching or wildlife photography, the park offers numerous opportunities to spot rare and endangered species in their natural habitat. This makes Plitvice Lakes not just a destination for relaxation but also an educational experience for eco-tourists and families.

A fun fact for visitors: the unique travertine barriers that separate Plitvice’s lakes and waterfalls are still growing at a rate of about 1 cm per year due to the deposition of calcium carbonate from the flowing waters. This dynamic process means that the park's landscape is always evolving, providing a different experience each time you visit. Whether you are drawn by the tranquil beauty of its lakes or the thrill of its hiking trails, Plitvice Lakes offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Croatia's natural beauty.

Split, Croatia, is a city where ancient history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly, creating an alluring destination for travelers. At the heart of Split is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian's Palace, a remarkably well-preserved Roman complex built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD. This sprawling palace complex, with its labyrinthine streets, ancient walls, and grand Peristyle courtyard, is not just a historical site but a bustling part of the city’s daily life. Explore the cellars, the Temple of Jupiter, and the cathedral of St. Domnius, which stands as one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use.

Split’s allure extends beyond its Roman heritage. The city’s Riva waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, offers a vibrant spot to relax and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy local Dalmatian cuisine, and take in views of the harbor and the nearby Marjan Hill. This lush, forested area provides excellent hiking and panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Cultural enthusiasts will find much to admire in Split’s numerous museums and galleries. The Mestrovic Gallery, dedicated to the works of Croatia’s most famous sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic, showcases an impressive collection of sculptures, drawings, and architectural designs. Additionally, the Croatian Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's nautical history and seafaring heritage.

Fun fact: Split's historic Diocletian’s Palace was famously used as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The palace’s ancient architecture served as the backdrop for many scenes set in the city of Meereen, making it a must-see for fans of the show.

Split, Croatia, is a city where ancient history and modern vibrancy blend seamlessly, creating an alluring destination for travelers. At the heart of Split is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Diocletian's Palace, a remarkably well-preserved Roman complex built by Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD. This sprawling palace complex, with its labyrinthine streets, ancient walls, and grand Peristyle courtyard, is not just a historical site but a bustling part of the city’s daily life. Explore the cellars, the Temple of Jupiter, and the cathedral of St. Domnius, which stands as one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use.

Split’s allure extends beyond its Roman heritage. The city’s Riva waterfront promenade, lined with cafes and restaurants, offers a vibrant spot to relax and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Stroll along the palm-lined promenade, enjoy local Dalmatian cuisine, and take in views of the harbor and the nearby Marjan Hill. This lush, forested area provides excellent hiking and panoramic views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

Cultural enthusiasts will find much to admire in Split’s numerous museums and galleries. The Mestrovic Gallery, dedicated to the works of Croatia’s most famous sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic, showcases an impressive collection of sculptures, drawings, and architectural designs. Additionally, the Croatian Maritime Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's nautical history and seafaring heritage.

Fun fact: Split's historic Diocletian’s Palace was famously used as a filming location for the popular TV series Game of Thrones. The palace’s ancient architecture served as the backdrop for many scenes set in the city of Meereen, making it a must-see for fans of the show.