10 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Located in the Balkans, Croatia has become one of Europa’s top tourist destination again since its War of Independence in the late 1990s. Like much of Europe, Croatia boasts its share of medieval cities and historic ruins, but what makes this country exceptional is its wealth of stunning natural attractions such as the Plitvice Lakes, the spectacular Adriatic coastlines and gorgeous islands. An overview of the best places to visit in Croatia.

01.Dubrovnik

Nicknamed the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” the old city of Dubrovnik is one of the prominent places to visit in the Mediterranean. Located at the southern tip of Croatia off the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik was established in the 7th century on maritime trade. With orange rooftop houses sitting in contrast to the blue sky, Dubrovnik presents many sightseeing treasures. The historic district, the Old Town, is stuffed with many historic features such as the old, defensive walls, cobblestone streets, magnificent palaces and stunning churches. Just outside the Old Town are popular beaches like Banje and Lapad, while the nearby island of Lokrum offers even more beaches.

See Also: Where to Stay in Rovinj

06. Zadar

A three thousand-year old city situated on a beautiful coastline rich in history is sure to draw tourists. Such a city is Zadar, located on Croatia’s northern Dalmatian Coast. Zadar could be called the ideal tourist getaway because it offers plenty to see and do without all the crowds of other popular destinations.

Zadar is easy to get around in with buses and taxis. At the heart of the city is its Old Town, which can be explored by foot. The historic district offers fantastic sightseeing attractions including Roman ruins, medieval architecture, numerous old churches, museums, shops and restaurants. Some of the city’s most popular sites are the Roman Forum, the circular St. Donat’s Church, 12th century St. Anastasia Cathedral, the Archaeological Museum and the University of Zadar, which is one of the oldest in Europe.

Besides the Old Town, tourists will find a string of beautiful beaches all along Zadar’s coastline where they can sunbathe, swim and enjoy a variety of water sports. Two unique attractions that are not to be missed in Zadar are the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, man-made marvels that use nature to create impressive light and sound experiences. Situated on Zadar’s beautiful seaside promenade, the Sea Organ allows the sea to make its own music as waves push air through 35 underground pipes. After absorbing energy from the sun all day, the Sun Salutation produces a colorful light show at night.

There are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants in Zadar where tourists can enjoy a range of traditional home-style dishes, pizza, fresh seafood and maraschino, a cherry-flavored alcoholic drink. See Also: Where to Stay in Zadar

07. Pula

Located at the southern tip of the Istria peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, Pula is a popular destination that has been attracting tourists as far back as ancient Roman times when fans flocked the city’s amphitheater to watch gladiator fights. Having been ruled by various government powers over the centuries, Pula today belongs to Croatia, and is best known for its wealth of Roman ruins and mix of cultures.

Pula is a vibrant city offering plenty to see and do. The city’s star attraction is the 1st century Roman amphitheater. Known as the Arena, the amphitheater is one of the largest and best-preserved of its kind in the world. Every July, the Arena is host to the Pula Film Festival. Other significant historic structures include the old city gates, arches, monasteries, a Byzantine chapel, a Venetian fortress and the Forum, the city’s main square, which is surrounded by Roman architecture and temples.

Pula also presents a variety of modern attractions from museums to art galleries, souvenir shops and Croatia’s largest aquarium, which showcases marine life from the Adriatic Sea.

Pula’s natural beauty of rolling countryside and sun-kissed beaches offer outdoor fun and adventure. The nearby Brijuni National Park and farming villages are teeming in the ruins of Roman settlements, while the turquoise coastal waters and sandy beaches offer fishing, sailing, swimming, snorkeling and diving among ancient vessels and World War I warships.

See Also: Where to Stay in Pula

08. Korcula

Best known as the alleged birthplace of the famous merchant traveler, Marco Polo, Korcula is a 30-mile (50 km) island located off Croatia’s Adriatic Coast. Easily reached by ferries from major Croatian cities, Split and Dubrovnik, Korucla is steeped in picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, rich history and enchanting traditions.

An island where walking and cycling are the most popular forms of transportation in addition to buses, Korcula is comprised of lush green forests, vineyards, olive groves, sandy beaches and charming villages such as Blato, known for its baroque churches and long boulevard of lime trees, shops, restaurants and hotels. Popular for its sandy white beaches, Lambarda also features several archaeological remains of Greek and Roman settlements. The island’s main town, Korucla Town, is a historic, walled town with Venetian Renaissance architecture, colorful markets and plenty of tourist facilities.

Unique to Korcula are its lively cultural traditions and festivals that have been practiced for centuries. Most famous of these is the Kumpanija ritual involving chivalry dances and mock medieval battles with real swords. Another of the island’s popular events is the Marco Polo Fest, a pop music celebration held in honor of the historic explorer.

Korcula’s cuisine is among its top attractions. While there is a variety of international restaurants located throughout the island, the local staples of lamb, cured ham and fresh seafood grilled with olive oil and parsley should be experienced. Also not to be missed are the island’s indigenous wines, Posip and Rukatac.

09. Zagreb

The capital and largest city of Croatia, Zagreb is a vibrant metropolis packed with both historic and modern attractions. Located in northwestern Croatia, the city dates back to the 2nd century AD when a diocese was first established by Hungarian King Ladislaus. Today, Zargreb is a sprawling cosmopolitan city and the heart of Croatian culture, academics and government.

With the city’s efficient public transport system, tourists can explore Zagreb by buses and trams. The city is divided into an Upper and Lower Town, with Upper Town being the historic core where tourists can walk down cobblestone streets and visit old, medieval churches, towers and palaces as well as government buildings, museums and art galleries.

Some of the city’s most important sites include the Stone Gate with a painting of the Virgin Mary, which survived a major fire in 1731. Ban Jelacic Square is the city’s main square and is the setting of historic architecture, souvenir shops and restaurants. The traditional open-air market, Dolac Market, features many stalls selling fresh produce, clothing and local handicrafts. Along the Strossmayer’s Walkway, tourists can see artists, musicians and other street performers. See Also: Where to Stay in Zagreb

10.Krka National Park

Located in Central Dalmatia of Croatia, the Krka National Park is a protected area of spectacular natural scenery, wildlife and historic sites. Situated along the Krka River within Sibinik-Knin County, the national park is best known for its numerous gushing waterfalls and natural pools of clear, blue-green waters.

Easily reached by car and bus from Split to Sibinik, the national park offers well-maintained walkways and boat excursions for getting around. The most popular attraction of the park is the network of cascading waterfalls. The most admired of these are Skradinski buk and Roški Slap. Many trails lead right around the waterfalls, presenting fabulous photo opportunities. Some of the falls plunge into natural pools, which are available for swimming. In addition to the waterfalls, the surrounding scenery of lush vegetation, flowers and glimpses of wildlife such as birds, frogs and dragonflies enhance the beauty of the park.

Also within the park are other places of interest such as historic monasteries and archaeological sites of Roman settlements and medieval fortresses. What’s more, there are plenty of tourist facilities such as museums, picnic areas, restaurants, souvenir shops and sightseeing tours.