With more than 1000 islands scattering along its Adriatic coast and ancient cities draped in charm, Croatia is the rising star of European tourism. Its allure sees visitors flocking here in the summer months to soak up the sun, seafood, and sublime ambiance, coupled with Medieval, Gothic and Renaissance architecture. If you’re planning a visit to this idyllic stretch of Eastern Europe, here are 11 travel tips to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.
- Experience More Than Just Dubrovnik While Dubrovnik is the jewel in Croatia’s crown, the country has so much more to offer than this historic walled city. Experience the pulsing energy of the capital, Zagreb and the medieval fortress of Zadar, then wander the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Be sure to visit the evocative Roman amphitheater of Pula and the Venetian-inspired streets of Rovinj, together with admiring the Byzantine mosaics of Poreč’s Euphrasian Basilica.
- Feast on Istrian Seafood Jutting into the Adriatic Sea, the Istrian Peninsula is renowned for its gastronomy, drawing on premium olive oils, fine wine, and locally-sourced seafood. Select from upmarket restaurants or local tavernas where you can grab an alfresco seat and watch the world go by as you feast on some of Croatia’s most loved dishes. Look for scampi alla buzara and sole fish, dished up with decadent white truffles. The fresh oysters from Lim Fjord are particular delicacies, while salted cod known as bacalar, crab claws and Istrian octopus should also not be missed.
- Go Island Hopping Croatia’s Adriatic coastline is dotted with captivating islands that are ringed by idyllic beaches and home to historic old towns brimming with charm. Explore the atmospheric streets of Korcula, lined with Renaissance and Gothic architecture, or ride the ferry to upmarket Hvar to admire the luxury yachts. Venture a little further to the authentic island of Vis, which is responsible for making some of Croatia’s best wines, and relax on the pebbly beach of Zlatni Rat that has become the poster child of Brač Island.
- Try Pag Cheese Salty and sharp in flavor, the cheese created on Pag Island is famed throughout Croatia. Sea winds deposit salt on the grazing ground of the island’s sheep, who transmit the flavor to their milk. It’s left unpasteurized for a strong flavor to develop during the fermentation process, then rubbed with sea salt, coated in olive oil and left to mature for up to a year. The result is an aromatic, crumbly cheese known locally as paški sir. It can be found throughout Croatia but for the best quality (and to experience a tour and tasting of one of the dairies), head to the island itself.
4. Discover Croatia’s Wild Corners Croatia’s ancient cities and idyllic islands tend to take center stage on most itineraries but don’t miss the opportunity to explore the country’s spectacular natural attractions. The turquoise blue lakes and gushing waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park are a highlight, while the karst river canyon of Paklenica National Park in northern Dalmatia offers superb hiking. Follow the walking trails through Krka National Park to discover its seven waterfalls and ancient Roman catacombs or tackle
the climbing routes on the picturesque Makarska Riviera.
- Day Trip to Mostar If time allows, plan a day trip from either Split or Dubrovnik to explore the beautiful city of Mostar in southern Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s renowned for its Stari Most (Old Bridge) that spans the Neretva River and for being one of the most heavily bombed cities during the country’s war. Today its winding alleyways are packed with handicraft shops and local restaurants that inhabit the centuries-old Ottoman buildings. After photographing its charming bridge (and adrenalin-seeking bridge divers), don’t miss the opportunity to soak up the magnificent views of Mostar from the minaret of Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque.
- Sample Sladoled (Croatian Ice Cream) Winning awards on the European stage, Croatian ice cream gives Italian gelato a run for its money! Sladoled (as it’s known locally) makes for a delicious accompaniment while wandering the sun-drenched streets of Croatia’s historic towns. Home-made ice cream is sold in pastry and sweet shops everywhere, with a diverse range of flavors to select from.