Podstrana Croatia

For stunning beaches and long, lazy days in the golden Mediterranean sunshine, pay a visit to Podstrana on your trip to the Dalmatian Coast. Sitting on Croatia's beautiful Adriatic coastline, Podstrana is less than ten kilometres east of Split, which is a journey of around 20 minutes by road. Go for a relaxing day trip, or spend a week or two in a beachside apartment or at a hotel with a terrace that juts out into the harbour. Head to the old town to start your sightseeing, where you'll find an array of lovely old churches and statues, as well as the remains of megalithic walls and a Roman olive mill. If you're looking for some action, book an activity with the Vodapark water sports centre, and have a go at things like windsurfing and sailing. When it's time to relax, Podstrana has a selection of pretty pebbled beaches that give way to crystal clear waters. Sit back and relax under a thatched sun shade as you gaze out to sea towards the islands of Brac and Solta in the distance. If you're in town over summer, there's a festival that spans several weeks, where you can see musical, literary and theatrical performances. Soak up the atmosphere generated by the crowds at themed events like the fishermen night, and run your eye over art installations on your way to an energetic dance performance. After you've spent some time exploring Podstrana, head back to Split and see if you can spot the town from the top of Marjan Hill. Or head over to Brac Island and wander along Supetar's harbour, and bathe in the sea at the Zlatni Rat beach.