Clad with beautiful beaches and numerous historical buildings, Croatia has become quite the European hotspot. This marvelous Balkan country is home to medieval cities, Mediterranean waters, and breathtaking natural settings.
This is the perfect getaway for you to learn about history, nature, and architecture. You can spend your vacation touring the numerous islands, cities, and landscapes. It’s the ideal location for adventures with some of the best hiking spots in Europe.
Though Croatia may seem small compared to other European countries, it’s quite sizable at over 56,000 square kilometers. You’ll need to plan your trip well so that you can get the best out of it. One place you should go to is Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a breathtaking natural setting.
5 Amazing Cities in Croatia
With over 1,200 islets, there’s a lot of ground for you to cover. Each islet has its own unique personality and is bordered by crystal-clear seas. You’re sure to find the place for you, whether it’s complete serenity or the rave of a beach party.
Looking for beautiful beaches, picturesque waters, Mediterranean scenery, and towering cliffs? The magnificent vistas of this enclave on the Dalmatian coast will captivate anyone. It may be familiar to moviegoers as the setting for the second instalment of the film Mamma Mia.
Croatia offers more than just a stunning coastline. It’s permeated with thick forests, olive groves, vineyards, and adorable villages. This guide will give you insight into five cities that are worth exploring so that you can plan the perfect trip.
Zagreb │ Best for Culture
Zagreb is Croatia’s capital city, and it can be described as a dynamic place that embodies both modern and traditional attributes. As the country’s largest city, it has been deemed a hub for academia, culture, and government.
Zagreb is divided into two sections, the lower and upper Town. The upper town is where you’ll find most of the city’s historical sites and churches. Tourists used to skip Zagreb in favor of Croatia’s more popular cities. Doing so would be a mistake. This city is a melting pot for all of the best things that the country has to offer, and it’s definitely worth the visit.
Things to Do in Zagreb
Pay a visit to Zagreb Cathedral. The cathedral is the second-tallest building in Croatia, and it can be seen from all over the city. The cathedral has undergone many re-constructions due to its long-spanning history. Be sure to turn your cell phones off, or at the very least put them on silent, when entering the church.
There are numerous museums in Zagreb for you to choose from, and you’ll absolutely love every single one of them. The most popular is the Museum of Broken Relationships. It’s quite a unique take on a museum featuring stories and artworks depicting people’s past relationships.
Dubrovnik │ Best for Historical Sites
Dubrovnik has been dubbed one of Croatia’s best historic cities and is one of its most popular tourist destinations. Located in the south, by the Adriatic Sea, it used to be a fishing town that participated in the marine trade.
It has several sightseeing treasures for you to explore. Rife with cobblestone streets, majestic churches, and magical palaces, it will surely captivate you.
The TV show Game of Thrones is what put this city on the map, and it has been popular ever since. It will be crowded if you go in summer, so be sure to plan your trip properly.
Things to Do In Dubrovnik
A must in this city is to walk the Old Town Walls; it’s one of the top things to do in Dubrovnik. The walls are 1.2 miles long and can be accessed from three points. The walls were built to protect the city from any attacks; today, they act as a viewing point to gaze upon the city. Go at sunset for an unforgettable experience.
To truly get a view of the city, including the walls, you should go to Fort Lovrijenac. The fort is perched on a rock at the edge of the city, built to protect the city from all angles. It’s a great location for a day trip.
Split │ Best for an Island Getaway
Split isn’t big in size, but it’s big in personality. The city was constructed around the remains of Roman ruins and the emperor Diocletian’s Palace. Crumbling walls coexist with elegant shops and Venetian-style squares; it’s no surprise it was a Game of Thrones filming location.
It’s a very popular stop for cruise ships and for travelers looking to occupy their time while they wait for flights. You can get to Split by ferry boat from any of the other Croatian cities and islands. It’s said to turn into quite the romantic scene in the late afternoon, perfect for a dinner for two.
Things to Do in Split
Diocletian’s Palace sprawls across the city of Split and is home to numerous other buildings, such as restaurants and shops. You’re sure to encounter it somehow; however, the main structure is absolutely beautiful and worth seeing. Wander through the palace and take in the grandeur of the architecture.
Split is known for its architecture and relaxed energy. However, it definitely has some of the best nightlife in Europe. Riva is an area in the city that’s strewn with bars and is known for its lively nature. Grab a drink at one of the bars, then move down into the city to one of the nightclubs for a night like no other.
Pula │ Best for a Bit of Everything
Pula is in the southern point of Croatia, along the Istrian Peninsula. Lined by the Adriatic Sea, it’s been known to gather crowds of people for generations, all gathering to marvel at its magnificent structures. This city is most renowned for its plethora of Roman ruins and cultural diversity.
Pula is known to be a very lively city, boasting numerous things to see and do. The city’s main attraction is a Roman amphitheater from the first century. The amphitheater, known as the Pula Arena, is one of the world’s largest and best-preserved of its sort.
Things to Do in Pula
For those of you who aren’t claustrophobic, head underground to Zerostrasse. It’s a shelter of World War 1 tunnels and corridors that span most of the city. Built to protect its occupants in case of attacks during the war, today, it acts as a museum. This showcases the history of the people. It’s also used to host numerous cultural and social events.
For a more aquatic adventure, Aquarium Pula is a good place to go. The aim of the aquarium is to indicate the need for protecting aquatic life while showcasing all the vibrant sea creatures. They have various exhibits that cater to different marine life.
But if you want a truly wet and wild adventure, Pula is notorious for its Blue Cave kayak tours.
Rovinj │ Best for Relaxation
If ancient architecture and sunbathing are two of your favorite things, you’ll be well at home in Rovinj. This city is located on the Istrian coast and was developed by several distinct civilizations, including the Romans, the Franks, the Venetians, and the Habsburg Austrians.
Rovinj is like a wonderful melting pot of history. You won’t need a map for this city since the tall spire of the Church of St Euphemia will act as your compass. It has been dubbed a romantic town due to its relaxed atmosphere and has inspired many artists in their work.
Things to Do In Rovinj
Take a walk down “artist street” or Grisia in the Old Town. This street is known for its charm, with multiple galleries lining the street and street artists showcasing their work. You’ll get to see plenty of works of art and take in the allure of the city. It’s ideal for a stroll and a midday cup of coffee.
In the center of the Old Town, you’ll find the Partisan Memorial. The memorial was erected in honor of the people who suffered during the fascist regime of World War Two. It’s worth stopping by as you’ll likely pass it.
FAQs on the Best Places to Visit in Croatia
With all of this information, you probably have some questions. This section should help ease any concerns that you may have.
When is the Best Time to Go to Croatia?
The best time to go to Croatia is anytime, really. It really shines in the summer and the spring. However, you’ll get less crowds in the fall.
How Long Should I Spend in Croatia?
If you plan to island hop and see a little bit of these designated cities, then a two-week vacation would be ideal. It will allow you to take in the sights but still have enough time to relax.
Where Will I Find the Best Beach?
Many Regard Zlatni Rat Beach in Central Dalmatia as the best beach in Croatia. However, as a coastal country, the truth is it’s full of terrific beaches where you go – making them all fantastic.
Final Thoughts on the Best Places to Visit in Croatia
The picturesque country of Croatia will surely pique your interest and land in your top 10 vacation destinations.
With medieval architecture, Roman ruins, sparkling beaches, and some of the most delectable European food, you’ll have a trip like no other. There are so many more cities and towns to explore; this guide has only touched on five, so imagine the possibilities.
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