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10 Amazing Places In Croatia To Visit In Your Vacations

ByZoe Grace Posted on

Croatia is a place with natural grandeur on the Mediterranean coast, owning over 1000 islands and historical heritage. One of the hidden gems in the Adriatic is this place with its unique combination of natural wonders, lovely small towns, and dynamic culture.

Get mesmerized by the fairytale Dubrovnik’s magical walled city, and discover the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO-recognized waterfall paradise and home of multicolored lakes. 

Sun-seekers can visit Hvar, a celebrity hotspot, or simply enjoy the quiet of Korčula, which some say is where Marco Polo was born.

Our guide will take you through the most important destinations, secret places, and stunning encounters with local people, that will make your experience in this country truly unforgettable. 

1. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, the Croatian jewel that is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic. ” 

Imagine yourselves walking in the ancient city walls that overlook the turquoise waters, or exploring the narrow cobbled lanes that are crowded with cafes and shops.

Mark my words don’t miss to visit Rector’s Palace, the architectural wonder of the 15th-century Gothic style that housed the ruling power for centuries.

I would recommend Savour mouth-watering fare from the extensive seafood menu at one of the restaurants located at the harbourside.

Local Food
Give “Brodet,” a rich fish stew, cooked with local vegetables, or “Crni Rizot,” a black risotto seasoned with squid ink a try.

2. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Immerse yourself in a fairy tale by visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its magnificent waterfalls and mesmerizing lakes. Picture yourself going on a wooden trail where it is covered with colorful trees and plants.

Nature lovers will definitely enjoy here the chance to see bears, wolves, and over 170 bird species.

Take the Upper Lake trail for some breathtaking views of the Veliki Slap waterfall. Boat to the Kozjak Lake, which is the biggest one in the park, shaded by generous vegetation.

Local Food
To get the real feel of this, try “Sarma,” vine leaf rolls with minced meat, rice, and local parsley, or “Pašticada,” a beef stew with gnocchi.

3. Rovinj

Rovinj Charm Rovinj, a delightful little town of Croatia situated on the end of the Istrian Peninsula, wins hearts with its colorful houses and white-stone-paved streets overlooking one of the best-kept harbors in the Adriatic Sea. 

Beautify the picture of walking down the maze of winding alleys, appreciating the traditional architecture and exciting art galleries.

The church of St. Euphemia is a historical place in Dubrovnik where you can climb to the top of the bell tower for a fantastic 360-degree view of the small town and the coastline. 

I suggest just took a Walk down Grisia Street, the steep street covered with artists’ studios and galleries, to view local artists’ masterpieces.

Local Food
Enjoy the seafood delights of the Adriatic at the Sea restaurant. Try ‘Boškarin’ the Istrians’ dry-aged beef or ‘Fuži Istriani’, a local pasta dish with black truffles or seafood sauce.

4. Zadar

Zadar, a Croatian city which you will discover on the Dalmatian coast, has a long history, starting from Roman times. Imagine walking through the ancient Roman ruins together with the modern art galleries that coexist in the pedestrian-friendly streets.

Walk the historic old town, and have a look at the Roman Forum and the stunning St. Donat’s Church. Get a healthy dose of modern art by visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Local Food
I encourage you to try “Žagrebački odrezak,” a breaded veal schnitzel, or “Paštaški brodet,” a creamy pasta dish full of seafood and vegetables.

5. Golden Horn Beach

The Golden Horn Beach in Brač is a perfect picture of nature itself.

Imagine a sandy headland that jets out toward clear waters with the tide flinging it in one direction and the wind in the other. Water fans can swim, snorkel, or windsurf for recreational purposes.

In my opinion, Rent a kayak or paddleboard to go around the nearby inlets and coves for some adventure.

Local Food
I would recommend tasting fresh seafood dishes such as grilled squid or homemade pasta from different sauces aptly named “pljukanci”.

6. Hvar

Hvar Island is a home for celebrities here who spend their holidays and hunt for luxuries on the island including the beautiful beaches, stylish beach bars, and extravagant restaurants.

Visualize yourselves on the golden sands, taking drinks in style bars, and going around little stone villages.

Take a chance to visit the old harbor city of Hvar and its majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral and never-ending promenade on the waterfront.

Local Food
Taste delicious seafood specialties or enjoy local classics like Gregada, which is a stew of fish with potatoes and onions.

7. Zagreb

The Croatian capital, Zagreb, is a place where the past, culture, and present are all mixed up in an intoxicating way. Picture yourselves walking around quaint plazas decorated with Baroque architecture.

I would say Get on the funicular to Upper Town to admire the spectacular city scenery. Go to the Dolac Market where the daily market has fresh organic products and handcrafted local souvenirs.

Local Food
Treat yourself to the tasty specialties of traditional Croatian cuisine at a “konoba” restaurant. ” I suggest giving a try “Punjena paprika,” bell peppers stuffed with spiced meat and rice for a spicy pleasure.

8. Korčula

korčula, which is a picturesque island in the Adriatic, is considered to be where Marco Polo was born. Think of how interesting it could be to discover an old town with fortified walls and a thriving harbor. 

Think about how relaxing and fascinating it would be to unwind on sandy beaches with crystal-clear waters.

Take a stroll along the ancient city walls for a magnificent view of the sea at the Marco Polo Museum, which is named after the adventurous explorer, to discover his life and journeys.

Local Food
Delight in the fishing villages where you can enjoy the freshest catch at a waterfront restaurant. Give “Brodetto” a try- fish stew of the season’s vegetables and spices.

9. Split

Palace Playground Split is Croatia’s administrative center and holds the title of the second-largest city in the country. It also houses a prominent UNESCO-listed Palace.

Imagine strolling through the old Roman architecture of Diocletian’s Palace, a lively labyrinth of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Visit Diocletian’s jaw-dropping palace compound to explore Peristyle and Saint Domnius’ Cathedral inside.

Local Food
Besides this, I recommend you to try “Pašticada,” a slow-cooked beef stew with gnocchi, or “Gregada,” a fish stew fragrant with tomatoes, onions, and white wine.

10. Krka National Park

Waterfalls & Wonders Krka National Park, a place of natural beauty, is famous for its roaring waterfalls, peaceful lakes, and abundance of wildlife. 

Imagine yourself swimming under a waterfall with the water falling on your face or hiking through a beautiful forest brimming with birds and butterflies.

Enjoy a boat trip down the beloved Krka River, with its stunning waterfalls and landscape views. Wander to Skradinski Buk, the largest waterfall cascade in the park.

Local Food
Choose “prsut”, Istrian Air-dried ham, or “sarma”, authentic stuffed vine leaves filled with meat and rich.

Conclusion

From the fairytale lakes to the historic cities that are sure to wow you, Croatia delivers beauty and charm. Embrace the enchanting walls of Dubrovnik, relax on the islands of Hvar’s glittering beaches, or hike below the waterfalls of Krka National Park.

Seafood will make your mouth water and “Pašticada” stew is one of the desserts we are proud of. Follow this guide and live a dream not of riddles but of blissful memories.

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