Fullersears
Croatia has rapidly emerged as one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and for good reason. Its natural beauty is significant and is one of the best preserved in the world. The rocky coastline stretches for 1778 kilometers and includes bays lined with pine trees, wide sandy beaches, and charming coves. As if this were not enough, there are also 1185 islands that vary from lush and wooded to barren and hilly.
Boat owners enjoy the sailing opportunities, sunbathers are spoiled for choice with a plethora of beaches, and divers have a paradise of marine life to explore. Croatia is bordered by neighboring states Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Slovenia, Serbia, and Hungary, with Italy across the Adriatic Sea. With a land area of approximately 56,594 square kilometers, a population of around 3.9 million, and Croatian being the official language.
Attractions in Croatia
With historic cities, spellbinding nature and sun-drenched beaches, Croatia is one of the most visited countries in the Balkans. The bustling capital city boasts many museums, art galleries, churches, shops, restaurants and nightclubs. The coast is dotted with vibrant towns packed with colorful architecture, while the numerous beaches offer a plethora of fun activities including scuba diving, yachting, windsurfing and kayaking. Here are 5 attractions that will spice up your Croatia vacation.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is the crown jewel of Croatia’s Adriatic coast. A World Heritage Site, the city is surrounded by massive defensive walls with fortified towers and canons. You can take a tour around these walls to get a feel of their might and scale.
Get high up on the walls to capture amazing views of the Dubrovnik’s famous orange tiled rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Also, engage in a leisurely stroll along the Stradun, a lively pedestrian street packed full of shops and cafés.
Beautiful caves
Croatia boasts some of the most spectacular water caves you will ever see. Cutting through coastal cliffs, the caves offer an unmatched experience for swimmers and snorkelers. The most popular ones are the Green Cave and the Blue Cave.
Two idyllic nature wonders featuring an enclosed space protected from sun by jagged limestone walls. The color of the water inside the caves, emerald green and bright azure blue respectively, is what attracts visitors most. Everyone coming here can enjoy swimming, diving, boating and jumping off the cliff into the sea.
Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and one of its most energetic cities. Here you can find both a rich historic and cultural heritage and a buzzing nightlife, making Zagreb a place for everyone. Start your sightseeing tour with a walk around the Upper Town.
Take on the cobbled streets and explore the red roofed buildings, the Neo-Gothic cathedral and the Croatian Parliament. The vibrant Tkalicieva Street brims with shopping and dining. Make sure to visit at least one of Zagreb’s numerous museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Mestrovic Gallery, the Archeological Museum, and the Museum of Broken Relationships.
Mljet National Park
If you are nature lover, you can hop a ferry to the island of Mljet where a blissful national park is found. Covered by dense and serene forests, the park is a peaceful retreat from the urban life. The main attraction of the park are two interconnected turquoise lakes. Hikers can take a scenic walk around the lakes or through the woodland. The trails can be used for cycling as well. Other activities include swimming and kayaking.
Great beaches
With a long stretch of glittering coastline, Croatia is home to plenty of beaches to any taste. There are lively seaside resort beaches, quiet beaches sheltered under natural caves, and wild beaches set against the backdrop of rugged cliffs and dense woods. Whether you are looking for sandy or pebbly, crowded or secluded, Croatia is here with the best beach for you. The country’s most popular beaches include the Golden Horn Beach, Punta Rata, Banje Beach and Sakarun Beach.
