We already gave a pitch for Croatia in our Visit Croatia blog. Now we are giving you a list of ten things that absolutely need to be done while traveling in Croatia. Without further ado, here is your bucket list! Discover Croatia!

1. VISIT PLITVICE LAKES

Even though Croatia has eight national parks and 12 parks of nature, Plitvice Lakes is the one you must visit. It’s a no-brainer. The park has 16 interconnected lakes with numerous waterfalls and breathtaking cascades in between. In observing the colors of the water that constantly change, one could argue there are 50 shades of green in these lakes. Until you savor this beauty with your eyes and soul, you will live in ignorance. Pristine nature, fresh air, and countless vibrant waterfalls create a synergy that is too good to be true. Become one with nature and start snapping photos during this jaw-dropping experience. Our recommendation is to visit both the Lower and Upper lakes, as this is the only way to fully comprehend the magnitude of the park and different types of magic found within. Find out more information about Plitvice Lakes here.

2. CONQUER THE FORTIFICATION OF DUBROVNIK

 If you want to feel like you are in a fairytale, Dubrovnik is the place to be. One of the highlights of Croatian experience is definitely the medieval fortification that you will stumble upon here. In the olden days, Dubrovnik was an independent republic, and one of the strongest maritime forces in the world. You will be amazed at how much turmoil and how many stories are hidden between these walls. Stroll the Walls of Dubrovnik, and reminisce of the times that are long gone. The entire stretch of the walls (a little shy of 6,500 feet) can be explored in a couple of hours, depending on how keen you are on taking photos. Because Dubrovnik is visited by millions of people yearly, you have to be wise and know when to go. This is a busy city, and between July and September it tends to become hectic. Plan your walk of the Walls early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the cruise ships and their guests are not present. All of you “Game of Thrones” fans be advised you will be strolling King’s Landing!

3. BROWSE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SIGHTS

 Croatia has 10 heritage sites protected under UNESCO (the full list you can see here ) They are all majestic in their own way, and each one of the sites is worth the visit. If your time is limited, our recommendation would be the historical complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian. In less than an hour of walk you will discover everything from Egyptian influences and Roman ruins to gothic churches and medieval palaces. In addition, roam the small and enchanting alleys of the old city and discover the stories that they treasure. When you had enough of the remnants of the past, you will still be in Split, a Mediterranean gem with delicious food, beaches, and world-renowned islands in the vicinity. If you have some extra time, take a 30-minute ride to another site, the old town of Trogir. They call it “The Little Venice of Dalmatia,” and this easy walkable city is worth your time. An interesting tidbit is that they have a third century B.C. relief of the Greek god Kairos – god of the happy moment. Make this your own happy moment!

4. CHOOSE YOUR CASTLE

Something that is still on the low down is that Croatia has mesmerizing castles that have been standing there proudly for centuries. Everybody goes for the alluring sea, sun, and sand, but there is more to Croatia than that. Over the centuries, Croatia’s lords and noble families were busy building castles and palaces, and we should thank them for that. As the castles rise majestically and overlook the valleys beneath, they also invite you to visit them. Even though it is hard to choose just one that needs to be seen, our winner is Trakoscan Castle. It dates back to 13th century, and it is now a museum with collections of armor, paintings, books, and baroque furniture. It is one of the best examples of the European feudal fortification system. Below the castle you will find a picturesque lake that only increases the overall experience. Get away from the hustle and bustle of the vibrant cities and find your own castle!

5. SEA, SUN, AND SAND 

Croatia prides itself in having more than 1,200 islands in the crystal clear Adriatic Sea. If you are visiting between April and September, you should try to find your favorite island. No matter what makes you tick, we are confident you will find at least one to your liking. You can discover non-populated islands, wine-making islands, islands with just a lighthouse on them, party islands, islands with secluded beaches, islands with proof of extraterrestrial life; the list goes on. We always encourage visitors to have an active holiday, but sometimes you just need a little bit of time for yourself while lying on the beach and enjoying the sea, sun, and sand. For those with restless spirits, you will find amazing scuba diving or snorkeling locations. Immerse yourself in the deep blue Adriatic Sea. Let time stop, and forget about all of your worries while basking in the eye-catching nature that surrounds you.

6. DISCOVER CROATIA – ADVENT IN ZAGREB

The capital of Croatia was voted as the “Best Christmas Destination” in Europe three consecutive times by European Best Destinations! If you are visiting during the winter months, you are in for a treat. Streams of people, illuminated squares, and street food are only a few things the city is abundant with. You will immediately be hooked on the addictive energy of the capital with live music on every corner. Soak upon the vibes, smell the cinnamon and mulled wine in the air, and become part of the magic. Check out what the jazz is all about and experience it first hand. If you are not keen on winter explorations, Zagreb is one of the rare Croatian cities with year-round offerings for tourists. Meet Zagreb, the new star in the European sky! Find out more info about the advent in Zagreb here  . 

7. SUNSET IN ZADAR

Due to it’s famous neighbors of Dubrovnik and Split, Zadar is often skipped by travelers. All three cities are majestic in their own ways, but one category puts Zadar on top of the pedestal – the sunset! You may have seen your fair share of sunsets in your time, but we are ready to argue that a sunset in this city will top them all! Even the great Alfred Hitchcock stated, “Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world,” and I think we can agree that Mr. Hitchcock had an eye for detail. Do not hesitate, and get lost in this captivating plethora of colors that are served to you free of charge. The best place to witness the famous Zadar sunset is by the sea. As you walk along the promenade, stop to view the modern light installation “Greetings to the Sun.” Accompanied by the unique sound of the Sea Organ (yes, the sea and the waves are producing music!), the sight of the painting in the sky will remain engraved in your memory. Set your soul for a sunset in Zadar! Discover Croatia to the fullest.

8. THE FOOD. EAT THE FOOD, TRAVELER!

Croatian people consider themselves carnivorous, so let’s start from there. Lamb, veal, and pork are the most common dishes, and they prepare them in a special way, under the iron bell or, as they call, it “peka.” The meat, potatoes, and vegetables are covered with a terracotta lid, and with help of burning wood embers, magic happens. Another popular dish is lamb or pork on the spit. Whatever you try, you will not regret it! Even though meat is the weapon of choice in this country, Croatia has the freshest and finest fish caught daily in the Adriatic Sea. If you prefer this, you should try the octopus, squid, and the black risotto. All will melt in your mouth. Another authentic product of Croatia is a flavored sausage made out of minced pork meat, called Kulen. Get in on that action as well. Finally, it is worth mention that top-notch olive oils and award winning sheep cheese from the island of Pag are all at your disposal while spending time here.

9. MINGLE WITH THE LOCALS

Any country is only as good as the people it produces. Right of the bat, people of Croatia are cool, laid back, and easygoing. They will immediately accept you as one of their own, and you will feel safe while spending time with them. If you thought you would have any language barriers, think again. The great majority of people are more than comfortable with the English language. Even the ones that do not speak it will gladly give you directions or advice using their arms and legs. One thing you will also notice is that Croats like to be seen and heard. They like to socialize and have fun. An average Joe in Croatia embraces the softer side of life, and takes time to indulge in simple things like coffee, cigarettes, and food. While roaming the streets of Croatia, engage in conversations with the locals and hear their stories. Did I mention that a lot of them are hot, single, and ready to mingle? You never know, maybe you will meet the love of your life during your journey to Croatia!

10. GET LOST

Sometimes it is good for the soul to go off the beaten path. When you scratch everything off your to-do list, leave yourself some time for spontaneous things to happen. If you wander around Croatia you might stumble upon peculiar museums such as The Museum of Broken Relationships, or the shortest funicular in the world. Your ventures might take you to a factory where the fastest electric car in the world is manufactured. Why not visit the smallest town in the world, or roam around small, locally owned vineyards and evaluate the quality of the produce? Open your ears and try to fact-check the theory that Marco Polo was born in Croatia and visit his birthplace. For the adventurers, pick a hiking trail and explore the endemic flora along the way. White water rafting or zip lining in the countryside might shake your feathers. Find century old olive trees or go on a truffle hunt. With an open heart, you are ready for new adventures in the paradise called Croatia. Discover Croatia and make a memory for a lifetime!

Discover Croatia in our Blog posts:

Croatia Facts

Visit Croatia

Croatia Highlights