Table of Contents

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Croatia
Experience the Local Cuisine: Must-Try Foods in Croatia
Top Attractions in Croatia: From Palaces to National Parks
Best Beaches to Explore in Croatia: From Sandy Shores to Hidden Coves
Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Kayaking, and More in Croatia
Island Hopping: The Best Islands to Visit in Croatia
Game of Thrones Tour: Explore the Filming Locations
Wine Tasting: Discover Croatia’s Wine Regions
Dubrovnik: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Split: A City Steeped in History and Culture
Zagreb: The Vibrant Capital of Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Natural Wonder
Festivals and Events: Celebrating Croatian Culture
Nightlife: Partying in Croatia’s Top Destinations
Croatian Cuisine: From Seafood to Truffles
Transportation: Getting Around Croatia
Best Time to Visit Croatia: Weather, Crowds, and Festivals
Tips for Visiting Croatia: What to Know Before You Go
How Long to Stay in Croatia: Planning Your Itinerary

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Croatia offers a range of attractions that showcase its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top places that you should include in your itinerary:

• Dubrovnik: This historic city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning architecture, medieval walls, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Split: This coastal city is home to Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is a great place to explore ancient history and modern culture.
• Plitvice Lakes National Park: This natural wonder is a must-visit destination in Croatia. The park features stunning waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the area.
• Zagreb: The capital of Croatia is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. The city features a range of museums, galleries, and cafes, as well as a historic Old Town.

Experience the Local Cuisine: Must-Try Foods in Croatia

Croatian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean, Italian, and Balkan influences, offering a range of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Some of the must-try foods include:

• Peka: This traditional dish features meat or fish that is slow-cooked under a bell-shaped lid with vegetables and herbs. The dish is typically served with potatoes or bread.
• Octopus Salad: This seafood dish features tender octopus that is marinated in olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, and is often served with fresh vegetables.
• Cevapi: This grilled meat dish is made with minced beef, pork, or lamb, and is often served with onions, ajvar, and flatbread.
• Truffles: Croatia is known for its truffles, which are often used in dishes such as pasta, risotto, and omelets.

Top Attractions in Croatia: From Palaces to National Parks

Croatia is a destination that offers a mix of historic landmarks and natural beauty. Some of the top attractions include:

• Diocletian’s Palace: This palace in Split is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for history buffs. The palace features ancient Roman architecture, underground cellars, and a range of museums and galleries.
• Hvar Island: This popular island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and historic architecture. The island is also home to a range of restaurants, bars, and clubs.
• Krka National Park: This park is known for its stunning waterfalls, lakes, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the area and swim in the crystal clear waters.
• Rovinj: This charming seaside town is a great place to explore historic architecture, quaint streets, and local cuisine. The town is also home to a range of beaches and outdoor activities.

Best Beaches to Explore in Croatia: From Sandy Shores to Hidden Coves

Croatia’s coastline is dotted with stunning beaches that offer something for everyone. Some of the top beaches to explore include:

• Zlatni Rat: This beach on the island of Brac is known for its stunning views and crystal clear waters. The beach features a unique shape that changes with the tides.
• Stiniva Beach: This hidden cove on the island of Vis is a secluded spot that is perfect for those looking for a quiet beach getaway.
• Dubovica Beach: This sandy beach on the island of Hvar is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. The beach features crystal clear waters and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Lapad Beach: This beach in Dubrovnik is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a day at the beach. The beach features calm waters and a range of amenities, including restaurants and cafes.

Outdoor Adventures: Hiking, Kayaking, and More in Croatia

Croatia offers a range of outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Some of the top activities include:

• Hiking: Croatia is home to a range of hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the natural beauty of the country. Some of the top trails include the Plitvice Lakes National Park and Paklenica National Park.
• Kayaking: The crystal clear waters of Croatia’s coastline offer a perfect setting for kayaking. Visitors can explore hidden coves, beaches, and caves.
• Rock Climbing: Croatia is home to a range of climbing areas, including Paklenica National Park and the island of Hvar.
• Zip-lining: The Cetina River Canyon offers a thrilling zip-lining experience that allows visitors to soar above the river and admire the stunning views.

Island Hopping: The Best Islands to Visit in Croatia

Croatia is home to over 1,000 islands, offering a range of destinations for island hopping. Some of the top islands to visit include:

• Hvar: This popular island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and historic architecture.
• Vis: This secluded island is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a quiet beach getaway.
• Korcula: This island is known for its medieval architecture, stunning beaches, and local wine.
• Brac: This island is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, as well as historic architecture and local cuisine.

Game of Thrones Tour: Explore the Filming Locations

Croatia was the filming location for several Game of Thrones scenes, and fans can explore the filming locations on a tour. Some of the top locations to visit include:

• Dubrovnik: This historic city was used as the filming location for King’s Landing, and visitors can explore the city’s medieval walls and architecture.
• Split: The city’s Diocletian’s Palace was used as the filming location for Meereen.
• Lokrum Island: This island was used as the filming location for Qarth.

Wine Tasting: Discover Croatia’s Wine Regions

Croatia is home to several wine regions that offer a range of delicious wines. Some of the top regions to visit include:

• Istria: This region is known for its white and red wines, including the Malvasia and Teran varieties.
• Dalmatia: This region is known for its red wines, including the Plavac Mali and Dingac varieties.
• Slavonia: This region is known for its white wines, including the Graševina and Traminac varieties.

Dubrovnik: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Dubrovnik is a historic city that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city features stunning architecture, medieval walls, and breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Some of the top attractions in Dubrovnik include:

• Dubrovnik City Walls: These ancient walls surround the Old Town and offer stunning views of the city and the sea.
• Old Town: The historic Old Town features narrow streets, ancient architecture, and a range of museums and galleries.
• Stradun: This main street in the Old Town is a popular spot for shopping, dining, and people-watching.

Split: A City Steeped in History and Culture

Split is a coastal city that is steeped in history and culture. The city features a range of attractions that showcase its ancient past and modern culture. Some of the top attractions in Split include:

• Diocletian’s Palace: This ancient palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for history buffs. The palace features ancient Roman architecture, underground cellars, and a range of museums and galleries.
• Marjan Hill: This hill offers stunning views of the city and the sea, as well as hiking and biking trails.
• Riva: This waterfront promenade is a popular spot for strolling, people-watching, and enjoying a drink or meal.

Zagreb: The Vibrant Capital of Croatia

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is a vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. The city features a range of museums, galleries, and cafes, as well as a historic Old Town. Some of the top attractions in Zagreb include:

• Mark’s Church: This historic church features a colorful tiled roof and is a must-visit attraction in Zagreb.
• Dolac Market: This outdoor market offers a range of fresh produce, local products, and souvenirs.
• Museum of Broken Relationships: This unique museum features items donated by people from around the world that represent the end of a relationship.

Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Natural Wonder

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a natural wonder that is a must-visit destination in Croatia. The park features stunning waterfalls, crystal clear lakes, and hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural beauty of the area. Some of the top attractions in Plitvice Lakes National Park include:

• Great Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is the largest in the park and offers breathtaking views.
• Upper Lakes: The Upper Lakes are a series of interconnected lakes that feature crystal clear waters and stunning scenery.
• Lower Lakes: The Lower Lakes are a series of lakes that are interconnected by waterfalls and offer a range of hiking trails.

Festivals and Events: Celebrating Croatian Culture

Croatia is home to a range of festivals and events that celebrate its culture and traditions. Some of the top events include:

• Dubrovnik Summer Festival: This festival is held every summer and features a range of music, theater, and dance performances.
• Split Summer Festival: This festival is held every summer and features a range of cultural events, including music, theater, and dance performances.
• Zagreb Advent: This festival is held every winter and features a range of Christmas-themed events, including markets, concerts, and ice skating.
• International Folklore Festival: This festival is held every summer and features traditional music and dance performances from around the world.

Nightlife: Partying in Croatia’s Top Destinations

Croatia is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, offering a range of bars, clubs, and music festivals. Some of the top destinations to explore include:

• Hvar: This island is known for its lively nightlife, with a range of bars and clubs that cater to all tastes.
• Split: The city’s Riva promenade is a popular spot for drinking and socializing, while the Bacvice Beach area is known for its beach bars and nightclubs.
• Zagreb: The capital city features a range of bars and clubs that offer live music, DJ sets, and a variety of drinks.

Croatian Cuisine: From Seafood to Truffles

Croatian cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean, Italian, and Balkan influences, offering a range of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy your taste buds. Some of the top dishes to try include:

• Black risotto: This seafood dish is made with squid ink and rice and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
• Buzara: This seafood stew is made with mussels, clams, and shrimp, and is typically served with bread or pasta.
• Pašticada: This beef stew is a traditional Croatian dish that is typically served with gnocchi or mashed potatoes.
• Truffles: Croatia is known for its truffles, which are often used in dishes such as pasta, risotto, and omelets.

Transportation: Getting Around Croatia

Croatia offers a range of transportation options for visitors, including buses, trains, and ferries. Some of the top tips for getting around Croatia include:

• Rent a car: Renting a car is a great way to explore the country at your own pace and visit remote destinations.
• Take the ferry: Croatia’s coastline is dotted with islands, and taking a ferry is a great way to explore these destinations. I was amazed on how well they operate: very reliable and incredibly cheap!
• Use public transportation: Buses and trains are a cost-effective way to get around Croatia and visit popular destinations.

Best Time to Visit Croatia: Weather, Crowds, and Festivals

The best time to visit Croatia depends on your interests and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip:

• Weather: The summer months (June to August) offer warm weather and sunny skies, making it the perfect time for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
• Crowds: The summer months are also the busiest time of year, with crowds flocking to the coastal destinations. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder season (May to June, September to October).
• Festivals: Croatia is home to a range of festivals and events throughout the year, so consider planning your trip around a specific festival that interests you.

Tips for Visiting Croatia: What to Know Before You Go

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip to Croatia:

• Do try the local cuisine, which offers a range of delicious dishes and local wines.
• Do explore the natural beauty of the country, including national parks and beaches.
• Do visit historic landmarks and ancient architecture, which showcase Croatia’s rich cultural heritage.
• Don’t underestimate the heat in the summer months, and be sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
• Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking.
• Remember, as of the start of this year (1st January 2023), the currency in Croatia is now Euro. Kuna (original currency) is no longer used or accepted.

How Long to Stay in Croatia: Planning Your Itinerary

The amount of time you need to spend in Croatia depends on your interests and the destinations you want to visit. For me, it was 14 days to explore all the above, including island hopping, and visiting the national parks and cities.  The transportation (ferries) are amazing, so there’s no waiting around to get from island to island.  However, the above didn’t include diving, which I did on an additional visit, and would highly recommend (add 3 additional days to this) nor did I do as much trekking as I’d have liked (add 3 additional days if you love trekking). Also, the pace of my travel within those 14 days was epic. Croatia really does have a lot to offer!