The Ultimate Croatian Travel Destination

Croatia has become one of the most popular destinations in Europe, attracting over 15 million visitors annually to its beaches, islands, historic cities, and pristine nature. With 2500 miles of coastline, close to 1200 islands, and a trove of Roman and Venetian-era architecture, UNESCO sites, and gorgeous nature parks, it's no wonder that Croatia is a sought-after destination.

The capital, Zagreb, is a buzzing metropolis with a rich cultural heritage, architectural marvels, and culinary delights. Beyond Zagreb, the coastal city of Dubrovnik, known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', boasts terracotta rooftops, winding cobblestone streets, and ancient walls enclosing more than a dozen churches, monasteries, and elegant squares.

Nature lovers will relish in the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO site featuring 16 turquoise lakes linked by gushing waterfalls in the forested heart of continental Croatia. Krka National Park, with its seven magnificent waterfalls, is another natural wonder.

For a blend of culture and nature, the seaside town of Rovinj in the heart-shaped Istrian peninsula captivates visitors with its storybook beauty. The island of Hvar offers ancient towns, small villages, and agricultural delights, while the city of Split, the country's second-largest, presents a vibrant cultural hub with world-class cuisine and the well-preserved Roman monument of Diocletian's Palace.

With so much to offer, Croatia is a destination that caters to diverse interests, from history and culture to nature and leisure.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

The park is the oldest and largest in Croatia, and its exceptional natural beauty has long attracted nature lovers. It was declared the country's first national park in 1949 and was recognised by UNESCO in 1979.

The lakes are surrounded by forests that are home to bears, wolves and many rare bird species. The forests are criss-crossed by hiking trails, and there is also a panoramic train ride that goes through the lush landscape. The park can be easily reached from the nearby towns of Split or Zagreb.

The City of Dubrovnik

History

Dubrovnik, historically known as Ragusa, has a long and fascinating history. The city was founded in the 7th century by refugees from Epidaurum (Ragusa Vecchia) and was under the protection of the Byzantine Empire. From the 9th to the 12th century, Dubrovnik defended itself against foreign powers, and between the 14th and 19th centuries, it ruled itself as a free state. The city's prosperity was based on maritime trade, and it achieved a high level of development, becoming known for its wealth and skilled diplomacy.

In the 16th century, Dubrovnik became a cradle of Croatian literature, with poet Ivan Vidalić naming it "the crown of Croatian cities". The city was almost entirely destroyed by an earthquake in 1667, which killed thousands of citizens and levelled most of the public buildings. During the Napoleonic Wars, Dubrovnik was occupied by French forces and later incorporated into the Napoleonic Kingdom of Italy and then the Illyrian Provinces of France.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Dubrovnik was part of the Kingdom of Dalmatia within the Austrian Empire. It then became part of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia and, later, the Socialist Republic of Croatia within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

Attractions

Dubrovnik is known for its impressive city walls, which run almost 2 kilometres around the city and have been a popular filming location for the TV series *Game of Thrones*. The walls feature several towers and fortresses and offer stunning views of the city and the sea.

Within the walls, there are numerous attractions, including the Rector's Palace, a Gothic-Renaissance structure that now houses a museum; the Dominican Monastery, which resembles a fortress from the outside but contains an art museum and a Gothic-Romanesque church; and the Franciscan Monastery, which has a library with over 30,000 volumes and valuable manuscripts.

Other notable sites include the Cathedral of the Assumption, St Blaise's Church, dedicated to the city's patron saint, and the Arboretum Trsteno, the oldest arboretum in the world.

Culture

Dubrovnik has a rich cultural history and was once a melting pot of different civilisations and cultures. It was a centre for trade, with merchants travelling all over the world and bringing back cultural influences from other countries.

The city also has a long literary history, with Croatian literature flourishing in Dubrovnik from the 15th century onwards.

Today, Dubrovnik hosts the annual Dubrovnik Summer Festival, a 45-day cultural event featuring live plays, concerts, and games.

Practical Information

Dubrovnik can be reached by air, with an international airport located about 20 kilometres southeast of the city centre. Buses connect the airport to the main bus station in Gruž.

The city is also accessible by sea, with a harbour at Gruž offering connections to other Dalmatian ports and Italy.

Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, muggy summers and mild, wet winters.

Dubrovnik is a captivating city with a rich history and culture, impressive architecture, and stunning natural scenery. It is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Croatia.

The Island of Hvar

Explore Hvar's Rich History and Culture

Hvar boasts a long and fascinating history, with evidence of human settlement dating back to prehistoric times. The island has been strategically important since antiquity due to its favourable position in the Mediterranean. One of the oldest towns in Croatia, Stari Grad, features quaint cobblestone streets, historic churches, and ancient ruins. Meanwhile, Hvar Town showcases impressive architecture, including the 16th-century Cathedral of St. Stephen and the Venetian-era Arsenal. The Franciscan Monastery, sitting on a picturesque cove, houses a collection of ancient artefacts and treasures.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty and Secluded Beaches

Hvar is blessed with stunning natural landscapes. Its interior is filled with lavender fields, ancient olive groves, and vineyards, offering a harmonious blend of human settlement and nature. The island also boasts some of the best beaches in Croatia, such as the secluded bay of Malo Zaraće, the pine-fringed Dubovica, and the turquoise waters of Pokonji Dol. For a truly unique experience, visit the Blue Cave on the nearby island of Bisevo, known for its intense blue colour and memorable light effects.

Indulge in Local Cuisine and Wine

Hvar's culinary scene is a delight for food lovers. Sample the local seafood, fresh produce, and traditional dishes like risotto and polenta. Konoba Menego, a rustic tavern in Hvar's old town, is a must-visit for an authentic Dalmatian dining experience. And don't forget to pair your meals with Hvar's renowned wines! The island has a proud winemaking history, dating back to the ancient Greeks. Wineries such as Zlatan Otok in Sveta Nedilja offer tastings of their fine red wines, while Konoba Menego serves up delicious local vintages alongside its cuisine.

Discover Charming Towns and Villages

Beyond Hvar Town and Stari Grad, the island is dotted with charming settlements. Vrboska, nicknamed 'Little Venice,' features a picturesque canal, a fortress church, and wine cellars. The village of Brusje, founded in the 16th century, is surrounded by lavender fields and offers stunning views of the island. Jelsa, a sleepy fishing village, invites you to slow down and savour the peaceful atmosphere.

Party the Night Away (Responsibly!)

Hvar has gained a reputation as a party destination, attracting celebrities and travellers seeking glamorous nightlife. However, it's important to balance enjoyment with respect for the local community and environment. Venues like Carpe Diem and Falko Bar offer lively atmospheres and stunning sunset views. Keep in mind that the party scene can be intense during peak season, and it's essential to be mindful of the impact on the local residents and their tranquil island home.

Krka National Park

The Krka National Park belongs to the Southern European (Mediterranean and sub-Mediterranean) region. Due to its special position and the mosaic distribution of various types of habitats, it is characterised by exceptionally rich and varied flora and fauna. 860 species and subspecies of plants have been identified within the territory of the park, including several endemic Illyrian-Adriatic species. There are 18 species of fish in the Krka River, ten of which are endemic, making the Krka a natural landmark of the highest category.

The park features various boardwalks, sightseeing tours and presentations, boat trips, souvenir shops, a museum, and restaurants. There are also several archaeological remains of unpreserved fortresses in the park's vicinity dating back to Roman times.

The City of Zagreb

Zagreb is Croatia's capital city and the country's economic, political and educational centre. Despite being the capital, it is surprisingly unknown to travellers, who tend to flock to the coastline instead. However, Zagreb is a great place to visit, with an unparalleled culinary scene, colourful streets, and a laid-back vibe.

Zagreb is a small, easily walkable city with lots of parks, a strong bar culture, and friendly locals. It is also very affordable, and all the city's sights can be explored on foot or by bicycle. The city has a population of around 800,000, making it one of the smallest capital cities in Europe.

Zagreb has a turbulent history and interesting architecture. The first mention of the city dates back to 1094, and it originally existed as two separate towns: Kaptol, which was mainly inhabited by clergy, and Gradec, which was inhabited by farmers and merchants. These two towns were united in 1851 by ban Josip Jelačić, after whom the main city square is named.

Zagreb has a lot to offer in terms of attractions and activities. Here are some suggestions for things to see and do:

• Explore the Old Town, including the Upper Town with its dimly lit narrow streets and romantic atmosphere.
• Visit Dolac market, the most famous market in Zagreb located in the city centre. It is a great place to buy fresh produce and experience the local vibe.
• Check out the Mirogoj Cemetery, a heritage site known for its arcades, pavilions, and tombs, which are architectural monuments.
• Take a break in Zrinjevac, Zagreb's most popular park loved by locals and tourists alike.
• Experience the café culture by having a coffee on Saturday morning, a local custom.
• Visit some of the city's many museums, such as the Museum of Broken Relationships, or St Mark's Church, one of the oldest buildings in Zagreb.
• Enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the Lotrščak Tower.
• Stroll along the tree-lined Strossmayer promenade, which winds along the medieval defensive walls to the Upper Town.
• Visit the Cathedral of Zagreb, the tallest building in Croatia, located close to the main square.

Zagreb is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. It is located in continental Croatia, in the northwest of the country, on the shores of the River Sava, and at the southern slopes of the Medvednica mountain. It is well connected to other regions of Croatia by road and has an international airport with excellent connections to most major European capitals.

Frequently asked questions