Croatia’s endlessly explorable coastline, dotted with hundreds of pretty little islands and historic cities, has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. Whether you choose to explore the Adriatic coast, or would rather venture inland to national parks and cosmopolitan cities, there’s something for everyone in this exciting European destination.
Walk the 13th-century city walls in Dubrovnik – the real-life King’s Landing from Game of Thrones – and explore the Diocletian’s Palace in Split, before venturing over to the Istrian peninsula to see the best-preserved Roman ruins outside of Italy in Pula. Or perhaps you’d rather head to the often-overlooked capital city, Zagreb, for museums, green parks, street art, cafe culture and stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture.
Croatia’s natural beauty wows visitors time and again. The spectacular Adriatic coast is full of islands, rocky bays and inlets perfect for a spontaneous swim. Large islands like Hvar and Korcula lie alongside tiny, uninhabited islands with pristine sandy beaches – discover as many as possible on a sailing trip along the coast. Head away from the Adriatic for extraordinary national parks – Krka and Plitvice Lakes National Parks offer turquoise-coloured lakes and epic waterfalls.
Croatian cuisine varies by region; seafood dominates the coast, as expected. Hearty meat dishes pair with home-made pasta, with crni rizot (black risotto) being a popular delicacy. Wine lovers should head to Istria or Dalmatia, where vineyards are plentiful.
To see the best of the coast, join our eight-day Coastal Croatia Epic Trip. Starting in Split, you’ll wind your way south – with stops in Vis, Korčula and Lumbarda on the way. After exploring a former Yugoslav military base, a speed boat trip out to secluded coves and a wine-tasting session, you’ll finish in Dubrovnik with a tour of the Unesco-listed Old Town.
