Croatia has it all:rugged coves, pristine beaches, medieval towns and natural wonders, making it the perfect holiday destination for adventurers and sun worshippers alike. There is so much to do and see in this beautiful country that it would be impossible to do it all in one short trip. To narrow it down for you, here are 10 things youcannot misswhen visiting Croatia!
Explore Korčula’s backstreets
Korčula is a beautiful island of rugged coves and fragrant pine trees, the kind of place which instantly stole my heart. The town is idyllic with its waterside restaurants, medieval churches and some of the prettiest backstreets I’ve ever laid eyes on. Take a day to meander all of the cobbled streetsand have a leisurely lunch beneath the pines. The best way to explore the rest of the island and all of its hidden corners is by hiring a scooter or quad bike.
Climb the Spanjola Fortress in Hvar
It may be a steep and arduous incline, but the views which await at the top are worth every second of the walk. The panorama overlooks the old town of Hvar, the marina and the cluster of Pakleni Islands. Go at sunset for a golden glow over the terracotta-hued rooftops.
Swim underneath Krka waterfall
Krka waterfall is the second most visited in Croatia, after Plitvice lakes, however what makes it so special is you can swim in the fresh waters beneath the powerful waterfall. The water is cold, but how could you not take a dip in such a surreal surrounding!?
Climb the city walls in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is as pretty as a postcard with its winding backstreets, orange-hued rooftops and medieval architecture. The best way to see the city and the surrounding Adriatic sea is by walking the city walls.
Visit UNESCO Plitvice lakes
Plitvice lakes had been high on my bucket list for as long as I can remember so I was so happy to finally tick them off. Standing atop the cliff edge watching the powerful waterfalls cascade below was one of the most surreal moments of the trip. The lakes are overwhelmingly big, you could easily spend a whole day or multiple days exploring. Plitvice lakes isone ofthe most visited sights in Croatia, so be prepared for lots of people, especially in the summer months. Come early and be the first to enter so that you have the lakes all to yourself to appreciate them at their most tranquil.
Visit the medieval town of Trogir
Trogir is a city built within medieval walls and surrounded by water. It has earned itself UNESCO world heritage status for its Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Spend a day weaving in and out of the cobbled backstreets, stocking up on Croatian olive oil and climbing the fortress for views over the historic city center.
Eat at Croatia’s best restaurant
Šibenik is home to Croatia’s best restaurant: Peligrini. It has earned this award for the second year in a row at the annual Dobri restaurant awards. On the menu you’ll find traditional Croatian dishes with a twist such as truffle and prosciutto pasta with sheep’s cheese and lamb with paprika puree. The restaurant prides itself on the quality of ingredients sourced in Croatia, as well its Dalmatian wine list. Whilst there make sure to explore the beautiful town of Šibenik, climb the fortress and visit St James’ cathedral.
Experience island life on Dugi Otok
Dugi Otok is completely off the radar making it the perfect island getaway. There are no chic bars, no fine dining, few commodities but there are also very little tourists so you’ll feel as though the island is all yours. Visit idyllic beaches such as Sakarun and explore its rugged beauty by visiting Telašćica Nature Park.
Swim in the Adriatic sea
Croatia’s beaches are sites of beauty. The colour of the sea varies from deep turquoise to emerald and often the beaches are surrounded by pine trees and verdant trees. The Adriatic sea is one of the best in the Med with its beautiful colour and underwater life so be sure to swim in it as often as you can.
Explore Split
Often overlooked and used as a jumping point to Croatia’s islands, Split is not only the best connected town for catching ferries but it is also a very pretty town. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views over the city, have dinner in Diocletian’s Palace and explore the cobbled backstreets and you’re sure to fall under its charm.
Words & photography by Faye Bullock
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Brooke Saward
Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.
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FAQs
Croatia is famed for its scenic pebbled beaches, which are beautifully lapped by crystal-clear waters. One of the most well-known is Brac's Zlatni Rat, also referred to as the Golden Cape.
What part of Croatia is the most beautiful? ›
The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Croatia
- Mljet National Park. ...
- Island of Losinj. ...
- Dubrovnik Old Town. ...
- Diocletian's Palace, Split. ...
- Old Town of Rovinj. ...
- Kornati Archipelago. ...
- Trogir. ...
- Krka National Park.
How to plan 10 days in Croatia? ›
The First-Timer's 10 Day Itinerary to Croatia
- Day 1: Land in Dubrovnik. The first day always it a whirlwind. ...
- Day 2: Exploring Dubrovnik. ...
- Day 3: A Day trip to Mostar. ...
- Day 4: Relaxing in Dubrovnik. ...
- Day 5: Dubrovnik to Hvar. ...
- Day 6: Hvar Island. ...
- Day 7: Hvar Island. ...
- Day 8: Hvar Island to Split.
What is the number 1 food in Croatia? ›
Croatian Food — Top Dishes You Have to Try While In Croatia
- Black Risotto. This iconic delicacy boasts a rich, dark hue derived from the inclusion of squid or cuttlefish ink. ...
- Peka. In the heart of Croatian cuisine lies a culinary gem known as peka. ...
- Buzara. ...
- Brodetto. ...
- Grilled Fish. ...
- Roasted Pag Lamb. ...
- Fritule. ...
- Strukli.
What is Croatia's Favourite drink? ›
Rakija or Rakia (a type of fruit brandy) is considered the national drink of Croatia. In the Istrian and Dalmatian regions of Croatia, rakija tends to be home-made exclusively from grapes, where the drink is also known locally as trapa or grappa (the latter name also being used in Italy).
What should I be careful of in Croatia? ›
Tourists have been overcharged at certain 'gentlemen's clubs', sometimes by thousands of euros, and threatened with violence if they refuse to pay. Pickpockets operate in tourist areas. Avoid carrying large sums of cash, do not leave valuables unattended and use hotel safes if possible.
What is the best month to go to Croatia? ›
The best time to visit Croatia is in the summer months between June and September, though July and August do get very busy. But Croatia is amazing all year round, with inland national parks proving nirvanas for hiking and biking in spring and autumn, while October brings the wine harvest.
Do people wear jeans in Croatia? ›
In the capital and largest city of Zagreb, jeans, shorts, and basically any casual dress you're comfortable in will be acceptable for the day.
How much money should I take to Croatia for 10 days? ›
On average, expect to spend around €55 - €275 per day while vacationing in Croatia. This figure is a ballpark estimate to help you get started.
Is Croatia expensive for tourists? ›
It depends on your travel style and spending habits, but a moderate budget could range from €1000 to €1500 for a week for accommodation, meals, entertainment, and some activities. If you're on a backpacker budget, it's possible to visit the country for about €500 a week.
With ten days to fill, you can put together the best Croatia itinerary; you can see everything above and more! With those extra three days, you can add in a trip to Zagreb, Croatia's capital city. There are plenty of historic landmarks to explore in this colorful and quirky city.
What is the most famous thing about Croatia? ›
What is Croatia known for? Lying at the junction of central and southeast Europe, Croatia is famed for its nature, culture, history, and gastronomy. One of the country's most iconic assets is Dubrovnik's ancient walls, stretching around the Old Town's churches, palaces, and terracotta rooftops.
What is the most walkable city in Croatia? ›
Split. Split is a city best explored on foot against the edge of the Dalmatian Coast. As the second-largest city in the country, it has a vibrant atmosphere that blends the ancient and modern worlds unknowable when traveling in a different mode of transportation.
What is unique to Croatia? ›
WHY CROATIA? The country is best known for its diversified shoreline with over a thousand of islands scattered across the clear, blue waters of Adriatic sea; a large number of national parks and pristine wilderness; rich history and customs; great food and wines; hospitality of the people.
What was Croatia known for? ›
What is Croatia known for? Lying at the junction of central and southeast Europe, Croatia is famed for its nature, culture, history, and gastronomy. One of the country's most iconic assets is Dubrovnik's ancient walls, stretching around the Old Town's churches, palaces, and terracotta rooftops.
What is special about Croatia? ›
Croatia has stunningly beautiful greenery and numerous spectacular waterfalls and nature parks. For instance, from Zadar you can travel to Plitvice National Park in 1 1/2 hours. It is one of the most beautiful nature parks in Europe! And where you will find 16 lakes, some as deep as 46 metres and over 400 metres long.
What is Croatia famous for producing? ›
Croatia is a notable producer of organic foods and much of it is exported to the European Union. Croatian wines, olive oil and lavender are particularly sought after.
What is a fun fact for Croatia? ›
Croatia is home of the world's biggest truffle. Croatia has highest number of UNESCO Intangible Goods of any European country. Zlatni rat beach changes in shape and colour depending on the wind. Croatia has the richest collection of remains of Neanderthal people in the world.