Exploring Croatia – 6 Places You Should Visit

For a unique and affordable European vacation destination, look no further than Croatia. This beautiful country is home to various exciting places, including ancient castles, stunning coastal towns, and lush national parks. Here are six areas you need to check out in Croatia.

The capital and chief city of Croatia

Research your destination and visit the capital and chief city of Croatia. Located on the northern side of Croatia, Zagreb is a vibrant and modern city with many cultural attractions. Visit its historic Upper Town, where you can stroll through cobbled streets lined with cafes and restaurants. The Museum of Broken Relationships is worth checking out – it contains artifacts from failed relationships worldwide. Or, you can also attend an event at the Arena in the city, which is a multi-purpose stadium that regularly hosts concerts and sporting events.

Dubrovnik

A popular tourist destination in Croatia is Dubrovnik. The city’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is full of stunning architecture and cobblestone streets. For breathtaking views of Dubrovnik and its surrounding islands, make sure to take a cable car ride up to Mount Srd. And don’t forget to walk the city walls for a unique perspective of Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline. In the evening, explore the city’s many bars and restaurants, where Croatian cuisine is sure to be a hit. Alternatively, you can opt for a day trip to the nearby island of Lokrum, an oasis of Mediterranean vegetation. Lots of people avoid this gorgeous city because of financial concerns. However, you should note that Dubrovnik is expensive only if you do not know where to look. In the heart of the Old Town, prices can be steep, but there are also many affordable options just a short walk away from the main tourist areas. Further, if you travel during the off-season, you can save a decent amount of money on accommodation and activities.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Head inland and visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s largest national park. The park is home to 16 terraced lakes surrounded by gorgeous waterfalls and lush forests. It’s an ideal spot for hiking, swimming, and photography. You will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the entire park if you make it to the top of Mala Kapela Mountain, the park’s highest peak. Make sure to explore the area’s numerous caves, including Vrelo Cave, one of Europe’s most profound cave systems. The best time to visit is the summer when the water levels are at their highest. However, this is also when people flock to the area, so make sure to come early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Diocletian’s Palace

Without a stop at Diocletian’s Palace in Split, no visit to Croatia would be complete. The palace was built by Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can explore its many courtyards, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture here. One famous courtyard is the Peristil, which is filled with ancient ruins and statues. This is where you will see some of the palace’s most famous structures, including its iconic sphinx. You can also visit nearby churches that date back to the Middle Ages or take a boat tour around Split’s harbor. Regarding the latter, prepare to spend a wonderful evening admiring the city’s waterfront views. Some boat tours even include a private dinner on board.

Rijeka

Rijeka is Croatia’s third-largest city and home to a thriving port. The historic center of the town is full of 19th-century buildings listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Check out the local markets, galleries, and theaters for an authentic Croatian experience. You will find everything from fresh seafood to handmade souvenirs in the local markets. The galleries offer a great opportunity to explore Croatia’s vibrant art scene while the theaters put on performances from local and international artists. You can also take a ferry across the bay to explore nearby islands or enjoy some of Croatia’s best beaches. For instance, make your way to the Cres-Losinj archipelago for stunning views and crystal clear waters.

Krka National Park

Finally, check out Krka National Park, home to stunning waterfalls and lush forests. Take a boat ride up the Krka River or enjoy some of Croatia’s most picturesque nature trails. Don’t forget to explore the park’s numerous caves, filled with centuries-old archaeological artifacts. There are also many places to stay near the park to enjoy a peaceful and relaxing stay. You can try booking a room at one of the local hotels or find an Airbnb close to the park. While you are there, don’t forget to visit the nearby towns of Skradin and Drnis­ — they are worth checking out. Skradin is especially beautiful, with its old buildings and picturesque harbor, while Drnis­ offers some of Croatia’s best wineries.

No matter what type of traveler you are, Croatia has something for everyone. With its diverse attractions, stunning landscapes, and friendly people, it’s sure to be a trip you’ll never forget. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring all that Croatia has to offer today.