Are you thinking about visiting Croatia? Such a beautiful country with so much to discover! If you are looking for Croatia highlights, we got you covered!
Croatia Highlights: ZAGREB – Up and Coming!
THE PITCH
The capital of Croatia was long neglected by the travelers despite the fact that this lovely country is home to the world-renowned cities of Dubrovnik and Split, and treasures majestic islands where travelers bask in the sea, sun, and sand. In the last five years, Zagreb has been voted as the “Best European Christmas Destination” three times in a row. The city is full of life and events throughout the year, and good flight connections make it easy to visit. The city has a vibrant and interesting history that dates back to medieval times. It is an easy walkable and safe place with friendly people and great cuisine. In addition, Zagreb allegedly has the most museums per square mile, and the shortest funicular in the world! Two thirds of Zagreb is green surface, which enables you to get away from the hectic atmosphere of the city at any point. Enjoy a stroll through beautiful parks in Lenuci’s Horseshoe, and admire centuries old palaces that your eyes will catch along the way.
THE HIGHLIGHTS
The 13th century established Upper Town is the place where you will need to funnel most of your time and energy while in Zagreb. This is where the city originates from, and where most of the top sites are located. In less than an hours walk, you will discover the beautiful rooftop of Saint Mark’s Church, the old parish church of medieval Zagreb. If your timing is right, you will witness a cannon that is shot every day exactly at noon. Your wanderings might take you to the cool Museum of Broken Relationships, or, if all else fails, you can just admire the panoramic views of the Zagreb skyline. If you are an artistic soul, you can embrace the plethora of street art and graffiti. Everything for your enjoyment is in the Upper Town – the nucleus of Zagreb.
This will sound eerie and possibly weird, but a spot you should not miss is the Mirogoj Cemetery. Mirogoj is not just the largest cemetery of Zagreb, it is also an open-air museum where the best sculptors and architects of Croatia left their mark. Feast your eyes on this peak of historicist architecture with a 1,600-foot-long colonnade consisting of 20 domes and many other impressive structures. If you want to learn more about Croatian history, know that the most notable women and men of Croatia are buried here. Mirogoj is also a good place to adjust your thoughts during a leisurely walk among the trees. One of the best times to visit is on All Saint’s Day, when thousands of people visit, and all is illuminated by the candlelight.
THE VERDICT
Although Zagreb might not be on top of your list of Croatian cities to visit, we strongly recommend including it in your itinerary. Zagreb is a big salad bowl of Croatian people coming from different regions of the country, and that is the essential factor that creates its undeniable charm. Amazing energy, hospitable people, and a packed schedule of events are only a few things that will keep you coming back to Zagreb.
THE FINE PRINT
One of the best times to visit Zagreb is in December, when the Christmas markets are alive and kicking throughout the city. Also, if you are a music aficionado, check out if your favorite band is playing here. Zagreb is a desirable venue for music festivals for a lot of artists. While spending time in Zagreb, we encourage you to go on a walking tour of the city with a licensed, local guide. The city has a lot of interesting history and quirky tidbits you might miss out on otherwise.
Croatia Highlights: SPLIT – Soak up the magic!
THE PITCH
Split is the second largest city in Croatia, and one of the most visited destinations on the Dalmatian coast, where you will find abundance of sea, sun, and sand. But this city is not merely all show and no tell! While roaming around you will find Roman ruins, gothic churches, and quaint alleys that hide all sorts of magic and stories. Furthermore, the Historical Complex of Split with the palace of Diocletian is protected under UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The easily accessible, world-renowned islands only boost the overall charm of this beautiful place. For all of you foodies out there, fresh fish and seafood that seem too good to be true awaits you, and don’t get us started on the wine (FYI, Zinfandel grapes originated here)! Arguably one of the most visually appealing cities of Croatia should not be missed during your travels in this part of the world.
THE HIGHLIGHTS
The old town of Split is where the focus of most of your ventures should be. Whether you are a history or architecture buff, food enthusiast, or a nightlife seeker, all that you are looking for will be a stones throw away from you. The majestic Palace of Diocletian, which dates back to the fourth century, is here for your liking. Imagine the captivating beauty Split must have if a Roman emperor decided to build a palace for his leisure, and make this city a part his retirement plan. You can also stroll through small alleyways with hidden restaurants and bars packed with friendly locals that are always ready to mingle. Lastly, treat yourself with some of the traditional fish recipes prepared in one of the numerous top notch, but reasonably priced, restaurants.
Become one with the exquisite nature! If you are more for the elevated parts, climb the Marjan Hill and enjoy the aerial views of the city. If you like to have your feet on the ground, or better, in the sea, hit one of the beaches of Split. You will not go wrong if your path takes you to the Bacvice beach. There you can witness or even partake in a game called Picigin. Played in the shallow part of the sea, the goal is to not allow a rubber ball to touch the surface of the water while hitting it with your hands. The more acrobatic, challenging, and destructive your dive to catch the ball is, the bigger ovation and respect you will receive from bystanders.
THE VERDICT
Whatever kind of a traveler you are, this is a destination that you should allocate your time to. If you want to admire the architectural remnants of the past, bask in the sun, be stunned by captivating nature, or just eat more than you should, Split is a city that enables all of that. As soon as you start your Split experience, you will be embracing the softer side of life and a laid-back outlook on it. So slow things down, take a deep breath, and let Split become a remedy for your soul.
FINE PRINT
Split should be visited during the summer season to experience its charms to the fullest. There are great day excursions you can easily undertake from Split. We recommend visiting the Blue Cave or the old town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More info about Split.
Croatia Highlights: DUBROVNIK – The Pearl of the Adriatic
THE PITCH
One of the most popular destinations in Croatia is Dubrovnik, often sugarcoated by the locals and called the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” When exploring this part of Europe, we would dare to say that a visit to Dubrovnik is a must. Back in the day it was independent from Croatia, and one of the strongest maritime republics of the world. Nowadays, Dubrovnik has transitioned into a place where “Game of Thrones” is filmed and A-list celebrities like to make appearances. In addition to the posh elements of its charm, the historical elements are also found. It is good to know that Dubrovnik was one of the first countries to recognize the U. S. as a sovereign state when it declared independence from the British. The view of the medieval fortification that encircles the Old Town will make your jaw drop. There is a reason why UNESCO protected it as a World Heritage Site. Visit Dubrovnik, and feel like you are a part of a fairytale.
THE HIGHLIGHTS
You haven’t been to Dubrovnik if you do not walk the ancient city walls. The intricate and complex system of forts and towers will take your breath away. The history of the fortification goes back to the early Middle Ages, and they have been standing there proudly ever since. In about two hours of walking, you can conquer the walls and create awesome photos that will make your friends and family jealous. During your stroll, you will have stunning views not only of the Old Town beneath you, but of the captivating Adriatic Sea as well. More info about the walls.
There is a long list of famous people that have already been allured to Dubrovnik, such as Brad Pitt, Bill Gates, and Beyoncé, to name a few. When you are roaming the streets, there is a good chance you might bump into your favorite celebrity. We encourage you to get lost in the enchanting picturesque alleyways and just go with the flow. Dubrovnik is an easy walkable city, and all the magic is happening within the city walls of the Old Town. Feel the enticement first hand while leisurely browsing around. For you view-lovers, there is a cable car that takes you to Mount Srd from where you can enjoy the aerial views of the city.
THE VERDICT
Vibrant and fancy Dubrovnik is an important steam engine of Croatian touristy offer, and you can’t go wrong if you decide to include it in your itinerary. Whether you just want to be seen or see somebody else, enjoy the eye-catching architecture, or you are a “Game of Thrones” fan, a visit to Dubrovnik can be labeled as time wisely spent. The city itself is a jewel, and this splendor should be seen and experienced at least once in a lifetime.
THE FINE PRINT
The popularity of Dubrovnik is often reflected through mass tourism in the summer months. The Old Town and the Walls should be explored early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the guests from the big cruise ships are not present. Follow our link for more info about Dubrovnik. It deserves to be on our Croatia highlights list!
Croatia Highlights: PLITVICE LAKES – Heaven on Earth
THE PITCH
Visit Plitvice Lakes, one of the eight Croatian National Parks. This one is the largest, the most visited, and the only one protected under UNESCO as a Natural World Heritage Site. Back in the 1970’s when it was proclaimed as such, it was one of the first places in the world to be named on this prestigious list. Today more than 1.5 million people visit yearly to soak up all the beauty and charm the park has to offer. To increase the number of photos on your Instagram profile, 16 interconnected lakes, and numerous waterfalls and cascades will surround you here, though those photos will never do it justice. This pristine and jaw dropping natural site is something you need to experience in person. Become one with nature and find your inner peace on this getaway from the hustle and the bustle of vibrant city life. From our list of Croatia highlights, this one of our favorite places!
THE HIGHLIGHTS
The amount of waterfalls and cascades is uncountable; you literally can’t put a number on them. Even during the year, their amount varies due to the climate change. Some dry out and disappear while others emerge. The most popular would be the 250-foot-tall, conveniently named, Big Waterfall. Do not worry, this one is ever present and does not hide or runaway year around, but sometimes it freezes during the winter months. The Sprinkler Waterfalls are not to be neglected either. If you reach them, you will understand how self-explanatory their naming is.
The colors are majestic; you will embrace 50 shades of green here. Throughout your stroll, the color of the water will constantly change, and you will never get enough of it. Every time you get used to the surreally painted color of the water, there will be another contour waiting behind the corner, playing tricks on your mind. These lakes are also accompanied by beautiful foliage. Lush forest and century old trees will surround you at all times.
THE VERDICT
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a gem provided by Mother Nature that everybody should visit when they travel to Croatia. Nature at both its finest and most raw is presented here. You do not have to be an outdoor aficionado to fully succumb to the charms of this park. Like many visitors have already stated, this is a once in a lifetime experience. Do not miss it if you want to capture Croatia highlights.
THE FINE PRINT
The Lakes are open for visiting throughout the year, and every season creates a different appeal to the park. Some parts might be limited or not accessible due to the flooding, especially in the spring season. We recommend doing a guided tour of the park, since many people end up skipping the highlights while choosing the wrong path within the park. Find more info about Plitvice Lakes here.
If we managed to awaken your curiosity about Croatia highlights, read more in our other blogs:
Most Popular Posts
About the Author
