Croatia: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

Officially known as the Republic of Croatia, Croatia is a beautiful country, sitting at the byroads of Southeast and Central Europe. From slender shorelines that are parked against sapphire-coloured waters, mighty forts and mansions left behind by many empires, to fascinating limestone ravines that dot its landscape – Croatia comes with a promise of balmy days, lapped in the arms of rich culture and colour.

Here is a quick guide to soak in the best of Croatia:

See:

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park (Central Croatia)

Croatia’s stunning natural wonder – the Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to lush green forests, alluring waterfalls and pretty lakes. Open all year round, the park’s enticing feature is the cluster of 16 interconnected lakes that vary in colour – ranging from green to turquoise and grey hues, that are neatly scattered, making for a great visual treat. Tourists can soak in the splendour of this natural marvel by walking on the wooden bridges and enjoying the boat rides here. Else, one can dock in a picnic area, that is located inside the park, across the main lake.

2. Walls of Dubrovnik

The port city of Dubrovnik glitters across the Adriatic Sea, and is one of the most happening destinations of Croatia. The old town of Dubrovnik is seated within remarkable defensive walls from the medieval era, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin the tour of the city with a walk around the forts, towers and cannons, and step back in time as you witness the amazing architecture from the middle ages. Comfortable shoes, water and a camera should make for an ideal companion when you set out to explore Dubrovnik.

3. Klis Fortress

If you’re a history buff and enjoy solitary escapes, then the Klis Fortress will delight you. Sitting atop the Klis Mountain, northeast of Split, the Klis Fortress is a 2000-year-old fort from the medieval times that was used as a defense spot. The fort has been the seat of many dukes and empires, the prominent one being the Ottoman Empire. It is effortless to wander through the fort and explore it. The good thing is that it is less crowded, and the views from the top are also amazing. During winters, the sunset views from here is magnificent. You’ll be glad to know that it is also featured as a part of Meereen in the famous Game of Thrones series.

Do:

1. Explore Bisevo – The Blue Cave 

Trace your steps to the east of the Bisevo Island, and make your way to the small bay of Balun, which is home to a sea cave known as the Blue Grotto or the Blue Cave. A speedboat from Split will take about an hour and a half for you to reach. On the way, you can have exciting encounters with the majestic Dolphins and get snapped with them. Once you arrive here, a small boat will take you inside the cave, as the entrance is 1.5 metres high. This limestone rock cave was formed due to erosion, and is filled with water that casts a blue tinge during the day. This beautiful enigma of nature is a sight to behold!

Read more: Turkey Vs Croatia

2. Tour Hvar

Tucked away by the glimmering waters of the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is a beautiful port city, and a summer resort that holds a colourful past. Famous for its hilltop fortress, walls from the 13^th century and the Hvar Cathedral, this city offers dazzling views of the Adriatic Sea, and also anchors inland lavender fields and gorgeous beaches. Tour the city’s many nooks and crannies. and also try your hand at fantastic adventure activities like biking, rock climbing, hiking. Snorkel and kayak your way to explore the turquoise waters or embark on a Jeep Safari into the islands. If adventure isn’t your slice of heaven, then soak up the sun at the picture-perfect Dubovica Beach, or admire the azure waters at the Pokonji Dol Beach. If seclusion is your idea of a perfect holiday, then the sandy shores of the Jagodna Beach are just right for a scintillating sunset.

#MMTTIP:  It’s a good idea to club your visit to the blue cave with a trip to Hvar!

3. Walk the Wall at the Mali Ston 

Mali Ston is a tiny village, nestled away in Croatia’s Pelješac Peninsula. A complete stunner, Mali Ston is an hour away from Dubrovnik and home to the second longest wall in the world, after the Great Wall of China. Walls of Ston are the most extended set of walls in all of Europe. While here, scale the heights of the wall, and enjoy the glistening panorama around you.

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Eat:

Fritule: A sweet speciality of the Adriatic Coast, Fritule are fried pastries, that look like donuts.Traditionally made from raisins, orange zest, egg yolks and a hint of rum, this delicacy are known to be highly addictive and popular!

Soparnik: A savoury delight, Soparnik is made with Swiss chard and is a speciality of Poljica – from the Dalmatian area. Soparnik works and tastes like Pizza and can be paired with red wine.    

Tavern: An authentic dish of Croatia, the tavern is grilled fish with a delicate drizzle of olive oil, and adorned with parsley. It is best paired with a malvazija wine.

Pogača: A lip-smacking baked bread, Pogaca has a creamy filling of tomatoes, onions, and salty fish ,and is unique to the Vis Island. A must-try dish, we say!

When to Go:

1)    May & September (Shoulder Season ): These two months are the ideal months to visit Croatia. The weather during these months is a pleasantly sunny, perfect for activities like sunbathing and swimming. Travellers can enjoy warm but balmy days, with minimal crowd and lower rates.

2)    June - July - August (High Season): These are peak summer months, and a time when the natives take their holidays. Croatia does attract many tourists around this time. The afternoons can be hot. The prices are at an all-time high during this season, but the good part is the festivals. You could catch the Ultra Music Festival in Split along with the International Folklore Festival in Zagreb among many others.   

3)    October – April (Low Season): These months witness a paucity of tourists. It is also a time when many hotels are shut in the Adriatic coast. However, during the onset of mild winters, sightseeing is still a good idea in Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. It is also a time when prices fall, and the places are not thronged by tourists. It’s good to catch the country around New Year’ Eve and during the carnival because the air smells of festivities.

Getting There:

Air: The Capital city Zagreb’s International airport, Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb is the prime airport of the country, and connects it to the rest of the world. Dubrovnik’s International Airport (also known as the Cilipi Airport) is another airport that serves international flights. Among others, Split’s Resnik Airport, Omišalj’s Rijeka Airport and Pula’s Pula Airport are also some of the most important International airports.

Bus: There are daily and direct buses to Croatia from neighbouring countries like Hungary, Siberia, Slovenia, Montenegro and Italy.

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Getting Around:

•    There are many modes of transports in Croatia. The best way to commute between different cities is by bus, thanks to its connectivity, availability, and affordable prices.

•    Speedboat is also a viable mode of transport between different islands, especially in the interior parts and islets.

•    Taxis can be easily found in the big cities at affordable prices; however, in the remote areas, the meter works less, so it is essential to agree to a fee in advance before starting your trip.

•    Domestic flights between different cities are also available.

So, what are you waiting for?

Book Your Tickets to Croatia