Croatia has its sturdy coves, pristine beaches, medieval towns and natural wonders, making it the perfect holiday destination for adventurers and sun worshippers. In this beautiful country, there are many things that are impossible to do all of that in one short trip. Here are 10 things you should not miss when visiting Croatia to narrow it down for you!
Explore Korcula’s backstream
Korcula is a beautiful island of sturdy coves and fragrant pine trees that quickly stole my heart. The town is idyllic with waterfront restaurants, medieval churches and some of the most beautiful backstreets I have ever seen. It takes a day to meander through all the cobblestone streets and have a leisurely lunch under the pine trees. The best way to explore the rest of the island and all its hidden corners is to hire a scooter or quad bike.
Climbing the Spanish fortress of Hvar
It may be a sudden and laborious tendency, but the view waiting at the top is worth every second of a walk. The panorama overlooks the old town’s Hvar, Marina and clusters of Pacreni Islands. Go to the sunset and give the terracotta roof a golden glow.
Swim under the waterfall of Krka
Krka Waterfall is the second most visited in Croatia after Plitvice Lakes, but what makes it special is the ability to swim in freshwater under a powerful waterfall. The water is cold, but why couldn’t I immerse myself in such a surreal surrounding? ?
Climb to the walls of Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik is as clean as a postcard with winding back streets, an orange rooftop and medieval architecture. The best way to see the city and the surrounding Adriatic Sea is to walk along the city walls.
Visit UNESCO’s Lake Plitvice
Plitvice Lakes was on my bucket list for as long as I can remember, so I was so happy to be able to carve them in the end. Standing on the edge of a cliff looking at the cascade of powerful waterfalls below was one of the most surreal moments of the trip. The lake is overwhelmingly large and can be easily explored all day or for several days. Plitvice Lakes is one of Croatia’s most visited tourist attractions, so be prepared for many, especially during the summer. Come early, enter first and thank them most quietly, so that you have all their lakes to yourself.
Visit the medieval town of Trogir
Trogir is a city built within medieval walls and surrounded by water. It has acquired UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Spend the day inside and outside the cobblestone Backstreet, raising Croatian olive oil and climbing the fortress for views of the historic city centre.
Eat at some of the best restaurants in Croatia
Sibenik is home to Periglini, the best restaurant in Croatia. It won this award for the second year in a row at the annual Dobri Restaurant Awards. The menu features traditional Croatian dishes with twists such as truffles and prosciutto pasta, as well as twists such as sheep cheese and lamb and paprika puree. The restaurant takes pride in the quality of the ingredients supplied in Croatia and its Dalmatian wine list. Explore the beautiful town of Sibenik, climb the fortress and visit St. James’ Cathedral.
Experience island life with Dugi Otok
The Dugi Otok is completely off the radar and is the perfect island getaway. There are few chic bars, fine dining and products, but there are few tourists too, so the island will feel all yours. Visit idyllic beaches such as Sakarun and visit Terashika Nature Park to explore its rugged beauty.
Swim in the Adriatic Sea
Croatia’s beaches are a place of beauty. The ocean colours range from deep turquoise to emeralds, and beaches are often surrounded by pine trees and lush green trees. The Adriatic Sea is one of the best medicines that live underwater with its beautiful colours, so try to swim as often as possible.
Explore the split
Often overlooked and used as a jump point to the Croatian island, Split is not only the best connected town for catching ferries, but also a very clean town. Climb the Bell Tower for a panoramic view of the city, have dinner at Diocletian’s Palace, and explore the cobblestone backstreets.
Words and Photos by Faye Bullock