Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is renowned for its cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, beaches, and central location.
The city’s centerpiece is Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that now hosts shops, cafes, and residences.

Split offers a wide variety of accommodation options tailored to every traveler. The best places to stay in Split depend on several factors, including proximity to famous landmarks, access to the Adriatic Sea, nightlife, and whether you seek luxury, budget accommodations, or family-friendly spaces. The most popular areas, such as Diocletian’s Palace, Bačvice Beach, and Marjan Hill, offer options ranging from luxury hotels to boutique apartments.
This guide breaks down the most critical factors to consider when choosing where to stay in Split, Croatia, with direct answers to the most common questions about Split’s best accommodation options.
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What are the best areas to stay in Split, Croatia?

The best areas to stay in Split include the historic old town (Diocletian’s Palace), charming Veli Varos, beach-side Bacvice, and family-friendly Znjan. Other notable areas are Meje, Spinut, and Dobri-Lucac-Manus, each offering a different experience.
The Old Town is perfect for travelers seeking history and culture, while Bačvice is ideal for beach access and nightlife. According to local statistics, most visitors choose Old Town, Veli Varos, and Bačvice due to their proximity to popular attractions.
Best areas to stay in Split
1. Old Town – Best Place To Stay In Split
2. Veli Varos – Best Place To Stay In Split For Couples
3. Bacvice – Best Area To Stay In Split For Nightlife and Beach
4. Dobri, Manus, and Lucac – Best Split Neighborhood For Young Adults
5. Meje – Best Neighborhood In Split For Tranquil Retreat
6.Znjan – Best Area To Stay In Split For Families With Children
7. Spinut – Best Area To Stay In Split On Budget
1. Old Town: Best Place To Stay in Split

Old Town, centered around Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva Promenade, offers a compact yet rich experience of history, culture, and vibrant modern life. Staying in Old Town puts you within walking distance of the city’s key attractions, including the waterfront and transport hubs like the ferry port and bus station.
Old Town is the best area to stay in Split for first-time visitors, with its central location, and easy access to landmarks, restaurants, and transportation. However, its prime location makes accommodation more expensive, and it is noisy sometimes. Since Old Town is car-free, it also lacks parking for travelers arriving by car.
Must-see landmarks in Old Town Split include Diocletian’s Cellars, Peristyle Square, Riva Promenade, and Saint Domnius Cathedral, which offers stunning city views.
Try Villa Spiza and DeListes for fresh Dalmatian cuisine and Corto Maltese Freestyle Food for a fusion of Mediterranean flavors. Nightlife options include Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar for live music and Leopold’s Craft Beer Bar for local brews.
Where to stay in Split Old Town? Recommended accommodations!

Find the best accommodation in Old Town Split, including heritage and boutique hotels, apartment rentals, B&Bs, and hostels for all budgets and travel styles.
Palace Judita Heritage Hotel
The Palace Judita Heritage Hotel is a top choice for stays in Split, offering an excellent location just behind the Riva boardwalk in a historic 16th-century palace. Guests enjoy spacious, elegantly decorated rooms, friendly staff, and a lovely courtyard. Amenities include a buffet breakfast, WiFi, and parking, with prices starting at 150 € ($165, £128) per night for a double room.
Grgur Ninski Rooms
The Grgur Ninski Rooms in Split, situated within Diocletian’s Palace, combines historical charm with modern comfort. Guests enjoy a central location near attractions, impeccably clean rooms with modern amenities, and exceptional hospitality. Complimentary breakfast enhances the stay, with rates starting at €135 ($149, £115) for a double room.
Grisogono Residence
The Grisogono Residence, situated within Diocletian’s Palace in Split, offers a prime location with stunning views and spacious, beautifully decorated apartments. Guests enjoy comfortable amenities, including A/C, kitchenettes, and complimentary breakfast nearby. Despite the lively surroundings, the interior remains quiet for a peaceful stay. With a personal touch from the host and proximity to restaurants and landmarks, it’s highly recommended, with one-bedroom apartments starting at €90 ($99, £76) per day for two.
Best places to stay in Split Old Town
Best Hotel In Split Old Town – Palace Judita Heritage Hotel
Best Bed & Breakfast In Split Old Town – Grgur Ninski Rooms
Best Apartments in Split Old Town – Grisogono Residence
2. Veli Varoš: Best Area To Stay in Split for Couples

Veli Varoš is a charming, quieter neighborhood filled with traditional Dalmatian stone houses and cobblestone streets. This area is known for its local atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for couples seeking a romantic and authentic stay. It also provides easy access to Marjan Hill and Diocletian’s Palace. Visitors appreciate the small boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses.
This neighborhood is a gastronomic delight, home to excellent local dining options. Experience authentic regional flavors at taverns like Otprilike Ovako, Cicibela, and Fife, or indulge in modern cuisine at Articok.
Tinel and Stow Coffee Roasters brew specialty coffee, while Monika’s Wine Bar provides an intimate setting for wine lovers.
Where to stay in Split Veli Varos Neighborhood? Recommended accommodations!

Find the best accommodation in Split Veli Varos neighborhood, including boutique hotels, modern apartment rentals, and cozy B&Bs.
- Heritage Hotel 19: A boutique hotel offering personalized service and luxurious rooms. Located in the heart of Veli Varoš, prices start at €100 ($110, £85) per night.
- Apartments Korta: These tastefully renovated studio apartments are located on a quiet pedestrian street, offering modern amenities and easy access to the city center. Prices start at €60 ($66, £51) per night for a two-person studio.
- Central Old Town Rooms: Located near major attractions, this guesthouse offers budget-friendly rates, clean rooms, and a shared kitchen, with exceptional hospitality from the host. Prices start at €50 ($55, £43) per night for a double room.
3. Bačvice: Best Area for Beach and Nightlife

Bačvice is Split’s most famous beach area, known for its sandy shores and vibrant nightlife. It offers a relaxed atmosphere by day, with beachside cafes and sunbathing, while at night, the area comes alive with clubs and bars. Bačvice neighborhood is perfect for families, young travelers, and beach lovers.
Split Bacvice area features a diverse culinary scene, with standout restaurants like Kadena, Dvor, and Movi. For nightlife, Bacvice Club and La Playa Club attract crowds, and the open-air cinema adds a unique touch. Overall, Bacvice perfectly blends beach charm with Split’s vibrant energy, and it is a great place to stay in Split for nightlife.
What are the best hotels in Split Bacvice Area?

- Hotel Park Split: A 5-star hotel located just steps from Bačvice Beach, offering luxury accommodations with a historic touch. Rooms start at €140 ($155, £119) per night.
- Hotel Briig: A modern boutique hotel offering a rooftop pool and stylish design, located near Bačvice. Rates begin at €170 ($187, £144) per night.
- Bel Residence Split: Known for its modern design and friendly staff, Bel Residence features a pool, spacious rooms, and a rooftop terrace with private hot tubs in select rooms. Although slightly outside the city center, it offers easy access to Bačvice Beach. Prices start at €90 ($99, £76) per night.
4. Dobri, Manus, and Lucac: Best Area for Young Adults

Dobri-Lucac-Manus neighborhoods are ideal for young adults, students, and creatives seeking a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere. These areas offer a mix of historic architecture and affordable accommodations, with proximity to bars, cafes, and cultural sites like the Croatian National Theater. This area is also slightly more affordable than Old Town.
Explore historic Radunica Street, enjoy pastries at Adelie, and savor local cuisine at Ka Doma Bistro and Restaurant Sug. Experience vibrant nightlife at Bar Sistema or Central Club, and relax with coffee at Kava2 café.
Cultural highlights include Gripe Fort, the Maritime Museum, and performances at the Croatian National Theater. Don’t miss the delicious desserts at Luka’s Ice Cream and Os Kolač.
Where to stay in Split Dobri-Manus-Lucac Neighborhood? Recommended accommodations!
Below are our top picks to stay in Split neighborhood of Dobri-Manus-Lucac.
- Hotel Luxe: Known for its excellent location near Old Town and the ferry port, Hotel Luxe offers clean, modern rooms with quirky interior design and free parking. Rates start at €200 ($220, £170) per night, including breakfast.
- Cornaro Hotel: A luxurious option just outside the old town walls, Cornaro Hotel features modern rooms, a spa, a gym, and a rooftop terrace with spectacular views of Split. Rooms start at €190 ($209, £162) per night with breakfast.
- Villa Domina: Located within walking distance of the old town, Villa Domina offers spacious, modern apartments equipped with all essentials. Known for its friendly hosts and convenient parking, prices begin at €60 ($66, £51) per night for a two-person apartment.
5. Meje: A Tranquil Neighborhood for Nature Lovers

Meje is one of Split’s most peaceful and prestigious neighborhoods, located between Marjan Hill and the sea. This area is perfect for travelers looking to escape the city’s hustle while remaining close to cultural attractions like the Mestrovic Gallery and Kasjuni Beach. Meje offers luxurious homes, boutique hotels, and green spaces, making it a sought-after retreat.
Meje neighborhood boasts diverse dining options for all tastes. Kat’s Kitchen is ideal for brunch, while Adriatic and Zrno Soli offer upscale dining with marina views. For Neapolitan pizza, visit Bokamorra, and for a relaxing drink with stunning views of Split and the sea, check out Vidilica Bar.
What are the best places to stay in Split Meje neighborhood?

Split Meje neighborhood offers self-catering apartments and a few boutique hotels, all within a 10- —to 30-minute walk of Split’s old town.
- Hotel Ambasador: A luxurious option located near Riva Promenade and Marjan Hill. Rooms start at €130 ($143, £110) per night.
- Hotel Cvita: Known for its spacious rooms and stunning sea views, this hotel offers a peaceful stay near the city. Rates begin at €100 ($110, £85) per night.
- Apartments 2nightstudios: Modern, clean studio apartments with pool in a quiet neighborhood near beaches and within a 15-20-minute walk to Split’s Old Town. Prices start at €100 ($110, £85) per night.
6. Žnjan: Best Area for Families
Žnjan is a family-friendly neighborhood offering modern apartment rentals and beachfront hotels, making it an ideal choice for travelers with children. This area is quieter than Old Town and provides easy access to family-friendly beaches and parks.
What are the best Accommodations in Split Znjan area?

Znanj has various accommodation options, from full-service hotels such as Radisson Blu to private rooms and apartments for a more authentic stay.
- Radisson Blu Resort: A 5-star hotel with kid-friendly amenities, including pools and beach access. Rooms start at €140 ($154, £119) per night.
- Liberty Living Apartments: Spacious, modern apartments perfect for families. The property includes a pool and on-site activities. Rates start at €150 ($165, £128) per night.
7. Spinut: Best Area for Budget Travelers
Spinut is a residential neighborhood known for its affordable accommodation and proximity to Poljud Stadium. This area is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who still want to be close to the city center without paying premium rates. It offers green spaces and easy access to Marjan Hill.
Where to Stay in Spinut: Recommended Accommodations
Spinut offers a variety of private apartments and rooms that cater to budget-conscious tourists, providing both comfort and a glimpse into the daily life of Split’s residents.
- Apartments Tonis: Offering affordable and clean accommodation, these apartments are perfect for budget travelers. Prices start at €60 per night.
- Apartment Cvit Jadrana: This budget-friendly apartment offers a large, well-equipped space near the city center, starting at €70 per night.
What are the top-rated accommodations in Split?
Our top Split accommodation options below make deciding where to stay in Split, Croatia, a breeze!
Top-rated Accommodations in Split
Heritage Hotel Palace Judita – Best Hotel In Split, Croatia For Couples
Radisson Blu – Best Hotel In Split For Families With Children
Slavija Hotel – Best Budget Hotel In Split Croatia
Hotel Park, Split – Best Beach Hotel In Split, Croatia
Grgur Ninski Rooms – Best guesthouse in Split
Korta Apartments – Top AirBnB In Split
Hostel Dvor – Best Hostel In Split Croatia
Split features various accommodation options, from charming boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern beachside properties and international chains like AC by Marriott, Radisson Blue, and Le Meridien.
Most Split hotels are small, with fewer than 100 rooms, providing intimate and authentic experiences alongside luxury and convenience.
Split vacation rentals are perfect for families or groups seeking more space, while affordable guesthouses and modern hostels with private amenities appeal to budget-conscious travelers.
What are the best hotels in Split, Croatia?
The best hotels in Split are Hotel Judita Palace, Hotel Radisson Blu Split, Hotel Park, and Hotel Ambasador. These luxury hotels offer top-notch amenities and are known for their excellent service, location, and accommodations.
Hotel Judita Palace is the best hotel in Split, Croatia, due to its fantastic service, attentive staff, prime location, historic charm, and overall comfort. Hotel Radisson Blue is a full-service hotel, ideal for families with children. The Ambassador Hotel Split has a sleek design and a prime waterfront location that offers convenience and style, while Hotel Park Split blends a prime beachside location with historic charm.
Luxury hotels in Split are limited, with a few international chains like Le Meridien and Radisson Blu. While genuine 5-star accommodations in Split are scarce, charming boutique hotels offer unique stays.
What Are the Best Boutique Hotels in Split?
The best boutique hotels in Split are Judita Palace, Heritage Hotel 19, Antique Hotel, and Briig Boutique Hotel. These Split boutique hotels offer personalized service and stylish accommodations.
Located right within Diocletian Palace, heritage hotel Judita Palace and Hotel Antique are exquisite properties boasting refined elegance and restored medieval architecture. Another gem in Split Veli Varos is Heritage Hotel 19, where intimate service blends with timeless elegance. At the same time, Boutique Hotel Briig offers modern amenities just steps away from Bacvice Beach.
What Are the Best Beach Hotels in Split?

Beach hotels in Split include Radisson Blu Resort, Hotel Park Split, and Hotel Marvie. These hotels offer direct access to the Adriatic Sea, beachside views, and premium amenities.
However, for an exceptional beach experience in Split, venture beyond the city to the nearby coastal towns of Stobrec, Podstrana, or Omis. Our top recommendations for a relaxing beachside stay near Split are Hotel Le Meridien Lav and Hotel Split in Podstrana.
Which Hotels in Split Are Best for Families?
The best family hotels in Split are Radisson Blu Resort and Hotel Fanat. These hotels provide spacious rooms, children’s activities, and easy access to family-friendly beaches like Žnjan and Trstenik. Radisson Blu is known for its kid-friendly amenities and pool, while Hotel Fanat offers a quieter atmosphere and spacious family-size rooms.
What Are the Best 5-Star Hotels in Split?
The best 5-star hotels in Split are Hotel Park Split, Hotel Ambasador, Hotel Cornaro, Radisson Blu Resort, and Le Méridien Lav. These hotels are known for their exclusive services, luxurious amenities, and prime locations. Le Méridien Lav stands out for its expansive seaside resort and private marina.
What Are the Best Apartments to Rent in Split?
The best apartments to rent in Split are concentrated in the Old Town and beachside areas. These Split apartments are ideal for longer stays and families. Apartments like Korta Apartments and Grisogono Residence offer fully furnished studios with modern amenities and central locations.
Where Can I Rent Apartments Near the Beach?
For beach lovers, the best apartments are found near Bačvice and Žnjan beaches. The best apartments near the beach include Posh Aparthotel near Žnjan Beach, fully furnished, spacious apartments with sea views, and Villa Mala Luxury Apartments, steps away from Bacvice Beach, providing modern, unique apartment rentals with balconies.
Where can I find cheap accommodation in Split?
Cheap accommodations in Split include Hostels, Guesthouses, and Budget Hotels. Many options are available in Dobri-Manus-Lucac, including Radunica, Firule, and Spinut neighborhoods, which offer budget-friendly stays within walking distance of major attractions. Popular hostels include Hostel Dvor and En Route Hostel, known for their affordability and proximity to the city center.
What Are the Best Hostels in Split?
The best hostels in Split are Hostel Dvor and En Route Hostel. These hostels are popular among backpackers and budget travelers for their central location, affordability, and modern amenities. Hostel Dvor is known as the friendliest hostel in Split, and it consistently receives high ratings from travel platforms.
In addition to hostels, numerous guesthouses in Split provide budget-friendly accommodation for those who prefer an alternative to hostel stays.
What are the best affordable guesthouses in Split, Croatia?
Rooms Floramye, Rooms Fetivi, Seascape Rooms, and B&V Rooms are the best affordable guesthouses in Split, offering attractive rates even in high seasons. In the low season, a double room at B&V Rooms starts at €29 per night. Although slightly farther from the city center, it remains within walking distance. The other three guesthouses, in low season, typically charge between €40 and €50 per night for a double room.
What Is the Best Time to Visit Split for Affordable Stays?
The best time to visit Split for affordable stays is during the off-season, from October to May. During these months, hotel rates can drop by 50% or more, making it ideal for budget travelers.
Are There Any Seasonal Discounts in Split?
Yes, many hotels in Split offer seasonal discounts during the off-season. Even popular accommodations like Hotel Park Split and Hotel Ambasador offer significant reductions during this period.
Where to Stay Near Split Airport?
The best accommodations near Split Airport (SPU) include Hotel Resnik and Hotel Trogirski Dvori. Both are located within a 10-minute drive from the airport and offer convenient services for travelers with early or late flights
How Long to Stay in Split for a Complete Experience?
The ideal duration to stay in Split depends on how much of the city and its surroundings you want to explore. To fully experience Split’s key attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended. This gives you enough time to discover the historic Old Town, visit Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the Riva Promenade, and relax at Bačvice Beach.
However, for travelers looking to explore day trips to nearby destinations such as the islands of Hvar and Brač, or to venture further to Krka National Park or Trogir, extending your stay to 5 to 7 days is ideal. This longer stay allows you to use Split as a central base while enjoying the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage at a more relaxed pace.
For a more immersive experience, some visitors even opt for a full week in Split, which provides the opportunity to blend city sightseeing with excursions to Dalmatian islands, enjoying local restaurants, and discovering the less-touristy neighborhoods like Meje or Spinut.
Travel Tip: For those who wish to explore Split and its surroundings more leisurely, the off-season months (from October to May) offer lower prices and fewer crowds, allowing for a more tranquil stay.
Explore Beyond Split: Top Day Trips and Hidden Gems
Now that you’ve chosen where to stay in Split, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding region. Split’s central location makes it an ideal base for exciting day trips, offering easy access to Dalmatian islands, national parks, and historic towns.
Whether you’re interested in visiting the island of Hvar, taking a day trip to Trogir (another UNESCO World Heritage Site), or experiencing the natural beauty of Krka National Park, Split, Croatia offers endless possibilities for adventure.
Where to stay in Split: location on the map
If you have any additional questions regarding your upcoming visit to Split, please feel free to drop us a line at info(at)frankaboutcroatia.com. We are always happy to help.
Have you been to Split before? Do you have any accommodation in Split to recommend? Let us know in the comments below.
i am looking for small group of solo traverlers to get about sight seeing with /meet others
have you any suggestions for solo accomadation not hostels or sharing bedrooms/bathrooms/
and easy beach access
Hi Frank,
Thanks for this comprehensive guide and all the other useful posts about Croatia. It’s one of our favorite countries, and we can’t wait to return again. :) We like the apartments, especially since our son was born, because they are more like our own home, and Croatian people are so welcoming!
Hi Frank… Just over 4 weeks and we will be there… A Brit and A Spaniard… Tell me… Do you know of the Hotel Inn at the Heart of the Palace? What will the weather be like in a months time, roughly… I´m guessing typically Mediterranian and still warm ;) :) Best Bar in your opinion…Best Club? Looking forward to getting there and having some chill time…
I may pick your brains further when we land :)
P.S Very comprehensive site you have here.. will browse further
Hello Frank,
My husband and I are looking into visiting Croatia: Split, Plitvices National Park, Krka Waterfall, and Dubrovnik, with a quick day trip to Montenegro.
For planning purpose, how many days would you recommend staying in Split and how many days in Dubrovnik?
Thank you!
Valerie
Well, I now see that both Old Towns are pedestrian only. Normally that is exactly what I love and I would 100% want to stay there. I don’t know how my foot will be though. Do you have any recommendations for somewhere right at the edge, so that I can walk a block into the pedestrian-only Old Town and get the best of both?
Thank you,
Kim
Is Old Town Split pedestrian only? I had a recent foot injury and can’t walk too far especially with luggage. I would like to stay in the Old Towns of Split and Dubrovnik when I’m visiting, but I wonder if that means a taxi/uber/bus/whatever will have to drop me off a few blocks away from my accommodations.
Any information would be appreciated!
Thank you!
Kim
Hi,
I will be visiting Croatia with my friends from the 29th of September to the 4th of October. Will be staying two days in pag 2 in split and the rest to explore Zagreb, plitvice etc.
Since the summer has already passed will the nightlife in pag and split be dead?
Hi! We have planned trip to croatia , from June 23 , 2017 ( we reach croatia by car from florence ) for 9 nights , we are thinking of 3 nights each in dubrovnik , split and Hvar ..
.
We are 2 families –2 adults and 2 kids in each family age of kids are 5/7/9/11,… and we havent booked any accomodation yet , we prefer to stay in villas or apartments , if 1 big apartment we would like to stay toegther , or else 2 separate apartments .
1. If you can help with Luxury accomodation at all 3 places
2. if choice of these 3 places is ok ? we will rent 2 SUV”s , love driving .
3. IF You aware that we rent a car in florence and return in croatia … ??
look forward for your reply …, your site is amazing
Hi
So glad to have found this website. My husband I are booking our trip around Croatia independently. I’m doing all the research but finding it hard going. We’ve booked 3 nights in Dubrovnik at the beginning of our holiday on 2 July and 4 nights in Split at the end. Hiring a car for the last day in Dubrovnik then travelling up to Split and stopping en route to see as much as we can.
Trying to get information on the car ferry from Dubrovnik, or that area to Mljet. Do you know if Prapratno to Sobra is the best route, we’d like to isit the National Park there too. As it’s July, is it best to precook everything? We’d like to see the beauty of Croatia. Can you recommend anywhere that would fit in en route please? Someone recommended Mostar to me, but that’s across into Bosnia. Too far?
Any advice would be gratefully received.
Many thanks
Beverley Ann
Hi Anato,
don’t worry about public transport between Plitvice and Split. Once you are in Zagreb, at the bus station, check the schedule of buses passing through Plitvice on their way to Split. You can purchase your ticket right there in advance, or in the bus.
Hi Frank – feeling luck that someone’s running such a comprehensive site about Croatia. I’m planning a visit in November, hoping to do Zagreb – Plitvice – Split – Zagreb. I’m just a little unsure about the Plitvice – Split transport side of things, any tips? Unfortunately none of us travelling have our licenses yet so we’re limited to public transport! Thanks!
Hi Frank,
how awesome! SO happy to see you guys finally booking that trip to Croatia. We should definitely find a way to meet. We can plan a day in SPlit, and take you out for a lunch. Or, if you want to come our way, to Istria, we’ll be happy to have you as our guests. We’ve got plenty of space. Keep us posted. And maybe, see you :)
I went to Split last summer. I was based 30 km away in gorgeous UNESCO protected Trogir and the initial high-rise outer suburbs and industrial zones made me question my decision to visit! But when I got to the ancient centre, well, what can I say except Wow! The Diocletian’s palace complex, the Riva, the green market, the marina and then up to Marjan hill via the Ivan Meštrović gallery.
And then, to cap it off, on Frank’s recommendation, a fabulous meal at the fun, eccentric Buffet Fife restaurant.
The bus back to Trogir took me right past the Roman ruins at Solin and I could see the mountain range where Klis fortress sits – not enough hours in a day, sadly :(
Superb day and thanks to Frank for pointing out lots of stuff to see and do :)
Hey Frank – we’re finally getting to Split! Booked our stay with Airbnb Apr 3 – May 15. Total cost for 42 nights was $1100 Canadian (ie about $800/mo). Which is pretty good. Mind you I booked 10 days ago before the CAD really went to crap…
We’ll probably prolong our stay in Croatia and look for other options while there. But I think the above, within 5 min walk of Diocletian’s Palace, is a pretty good deal and we’re looking really forward to exploring Split. Will be on your site a lot as we get closer.
Frank (bbqboy)
I’ve never been to Split Frank but must say all the spots look amazing, especially Le Meridien. I’ve seen many epic-looking Le Meridien’s in Thailand from Phuket to Chiang. 5 star hotel indeed and at least from the image above and from my drive-walk by’s it seems as if the chain delivers.
Thanks for the share; I enjoyed your pictures, especially that Heritage Hotel shot!
Ryan