On paper, there are some clear similarities between Split and Zadar. Both these coastal cities were formed in the Ancient Roman era and retain plenty of signs of their origins. Split is Croatia's second largest city and a major ferry port, so it can be hard to avoid spending at least a few hours there on any trip to Croatia that includes some Dalmatian islands. There's no doubt that the Old Town of Split, contained within the walls of a 16 century-old Roman emperor's palace is impressive, but vacationers looking for an off-beaten-path experience would do well to consider Zadar. The city walls might be Venetian, not Roman, but the marble-smooth streets of the old town are a pleasure to get lost in. They have a buzz that's more real than Split's thanks to the large university located in the city. As a bonus, you'll be treated to what Alfred Hitchcock described as the most beautiful sunset in the world.