The parking man called early this morning as expected. Luckily Guy had already been out and sourced some more coins – there was a change machine at the car wash at the back of us! We can’t believe no one mentioned it. After explaining that we couldn’t get the app, he said the machine only took so many coins anyway and happily took the cash from us. No ticket though – suspect he makes a few extra kuna this way.
Set off on the downhill track to the old town. It is an amazing place, so well preserved. The streets are paved with what looks like travertine worn to a shine by the thousands of people that pass through the gates. Churches and old stone houses with the obligatory green shutters all blend in together in the sunshine.
Coming through the Pile Gate at the top, if you can see past the crowds, you’re met with a huge fountain dating back to 1444. Apparently visitors had to wash themselves here before being allowed into the city.
It was already packed with people at 10am – you could see them walking around the walls in a long snake . I’m so glad we did it back in 2018 – it’s now about £30 each!!
We tried to explore all the bits we didn’t see last time and discovered loads of little streets and alleyways. It’s all up and down steps though and sooner or later the feet start to throb.
We took to people watching whilst waiting to see the little man on the church clock strike one with his hammer. So distracted were we by the amount of girls with inflated lips – some really young, posing for photos, that we missed the clock action!
On the way back, we discovered several little beaches where sea kayaking seems to be the sport of choice. Probably a good way to see the outside of the city minus the crowds.
Uphill all the way back to the parking, but we made it. I think we caught a bus last time so I’m quite pleased – can’t move now though! 😂
