The Charm of Split and the Refinement of Hotel Ambasador
Croatia is a destination that unites natural beauty, history and culture with authenticity. The country fascinates not only for its crystal clear waters and its well preserved Roman heritage but also for its gastronomy and its way of life that celebrates the pleasure of time. Among its most captivating destinations, Split stands out for its cosmopolitan energy, its white stone architecture and the constant presence of the sea.
In one of the most elegant areas of the city lies Hotel Ambasador, a five star property that embodies the new concept of luxury hospitality on the Dalmatian coast. The original building, dating back to 1937, has been completely restored, preserving its historical essence while embracing a contemporary design that blends perfectly with the maritime surroundings. Today, the hotel balances tradition and sophistication, offering absolute comfort and an aesthetic that reflects the modern spirit of Croatia.
From the moment of arrival, attention to detail is evident. The lobby is both impressive and welcoming, with a curation of art and design that evokes the discreet elegance of the Mediterranean. The service is personal and courteous, and the genuine care of the staff can be felt in every gesture. Each evening, a chocolate with the message “Sweet Dreams” was placed on the bed, a delicate touch that reflects the hotel’s thoughtful hospitality.
The rooms are spacious, with floor to ceiling windows and magnificent views over the Adriatic Sea. The Superior Rooms, where we stayed, offer calm and understated luxury. The bathrooms are equipped with Bvlgari amenities, adding to the sense of comfort and refinement.
The Restaurant Méditerranée is one of the highlights of the hotel. The menu pays tribute to Dalmatian cuisine, combining local ingredients with sophisticated presentation and an exceptional wine list. In the evening, live music enhances the atmosphere, creating a complete sensory experience with flavours, sounds and the soft reflection of the sea.
During our stay, we had the chance to experience local gastronomy through the Split Cooking Class in the heart of the historic centre. The day began with a visit to the traditional Peškarija Fish Market, one of the city’s most emblematic landmarks. The market is full of colour and movement, a lively portrait of the Mediterranean spirit and the close relationship that the people of Split maintain with the sea.
After the visit, we went to a charming stone house for the cooking class. It was a relaxed and enjoyable experience, led with kindness and passion by local chefs. We learned to prepare traditional Dalmatian dishes using seasonal ingredients such as fresh herbs, olive oil and fish from the Adriatic. At the end, we enjoyed our own creations paired with local wine, a delightful way to connect with the essence of Croatian cuisine.
Another highlight of the journey was the guided tour of Diocletian’s Palace, conducted by historian Dinah Roguljić from Lagida. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the palace is one of the best preserved Roman monuments in the world and remains the beating heart of Split. Walking through its narrow streets, vaulted galleries and sunlit courtyards feels like travelling through centuries of living history. The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the ancient walls and the rhythm of everyday life tell a story that continues to breathe through the city.
When we visited the Kaštel Škuli Winery, we enjoyed an incredible gastronomic experience accompanied by the wines produced there and learned more about the region’s winemaking traditions. Surrounded by the soft landscape and the warmth of Croatian hospitality, it was easy to understand how authenticity and simplicity are central to Dalmatian culture.
The return to Hotel Ambasador was always an invitation to warmth and hospitality. The Hacelia Spa offers treatments inspired by the therapeutic properties of Mediterranean ingredients such as lavender, olive oil and Adriatic sea shells in an atmosphere of complete tranquillity. I had a wonderful massage that was a real boost of energy, perfect to restore me for my birthday on 18 September and to prepare me for the intensity of Fashion Week, which I would face shortly after.
The Pool Bar and the terrace overlooking the sea offer moments of pure relaxation. Under the September sun, it was a joy to sit quietly, watching the yachts glide by and the light shimmer on the water. The sunset from there is unforgettable, a golden palette that invites a glass of champagne and quiet reflection.
We also had the opportunity to visit the hotel’s private rooftop, an exclusive space ideal for intimate receptions, business meetings and marriage proposals. It was on this very rooftop that Ed Sheeran filmed part of one of his music videos, using the extraordinary scenery of Hotel Ambasador as a backdrop.
This journey was above all a celebration of Croatian culture, fine gastronomy and the wonderful people who made these days so special. We celebrated the birthdays of September, including my own, in an atmosphere of joy, friendship and gratitude. Being in Split felt like a gift, a moment to celebrate life and the privilege of discovering one of Europe’s most enchanting destinations.
Hotel Ambasador is more than an address in Split. It is a symbol of a new era of Croatian hospitality, where tradition and modernity exist in perfect harmony. A place that represents the true essence of Mediterranean luxury, discreet, graceful and unforgettable.
