Welcome to the Balkans! When visiting Eastern Europe, spending some time in Croatia is an absolute must. Croatia boasts a pristine coastline covering almost the entire Eastern half of the Adriatic Sea. History and culture come alive in its major cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Zadar, with Roman and Venetian ruins and religious relics similar to the ones found in South Eastern Italy. Also, along its rich coast, you’ll find national parks with waterfalls and turquoise blue water, and a short ferry ride away are its beautiful islands reminiscent of Greece. This blend of Mediterranean and Slavic culture, history, and cuisine come together to create a new dynamic all its own.
Croatia is a naturally and historically gifted country that creates a magnetic beauty that attracts visitors worldwide. Whether you come for the people, the food, or its vibrant history, you’re sure to be amazed by every step you take in this alluring country. Before you book your plane ticket, make sure you’re up to date on everything you need to know to travel to Croatia!
What is Croatia Known For
Croatia is known worldwide for its stunning natural features like turquoise blue waters, waterfalls, nature preserves, and mountains. The country is also known for its history, with sites dating back to the 4th century BC all the way to the present times. You can see beautiful architecture throughout the islands and cities of the Dalmatian Coast, as well as, of course, the picturesque terracotta-colored roofs.
Croatia is also famous for being the filming location for many movies and TV series like Game of Thrones, The Wheel of Time, and Mama Mia.
Climate
Croatia has a dual climate. Along the coast and western side, you’ll find a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and a mild, wet winter. Moving inward towards the mountains and the capital city, Zagreb, you’ll find a continental climate with hot summers and cold winters
Croatia has the perfect climate for any kind of vacation, whether you’re looking to escape the heat or enjoy it to the fullest! The average temperature along the coast is 26°C in the summer and around 4°C in the winter. The average temperature in the interior during summer is 28°C and 5°C in the winter.
Currency
The currency used in Croatia is the Euro. Many restaurants and stores accept debit, credit, and cash.
How to Get Around
There are many ways to get around Croatia, by renting a car, train, or bus. Many visitors choose to take the bus due to its frequency and affordability. In the cities, it’s common to drive, use public transit, or take a taxi.
On the islands boats are the most common mode of transportation and there are public ferries run by the state ferry firm Jadrolinija, although private catamarans are offering services as well.
National Dishes
Croatian dishes are bursting with flavor drawn from the local fresh ingredients. Many of their national dishes feature fresh seafood, hearty pasta, olive oil, and fresh citrus. Croatian dishes are hearty and filling, so make sure you come hungry and ready to eat! Here are some must-try dishes when visiting Croatia.
Crni rižot
Crni rižot is a visually striking dish! Commonly known as black risotto, you’ll find this dish all over the Dalmatian coast. It’s a hearty and filling squid risotto, and the ink gives it its striking black color. The flavor is satisfying, but beware! This popular dish may turn your tongue and teeth black (temporarily).
Grenada
Grenada, a fresh fish stew, is commonly found on the island of Hvar but can be found all over the Dalmatian coast. It features rich olive oil and freshly caught fish of the day alongside potatoes. It’s then simmered over low heat for an extended period of time to bring out the flavor. It’s excellent paired with wine for a fresh, hearty dinner on the coast!
Pašticada
This dish has culinary links to southern French cuisine and is perfect as a filling dinner after a day of exploring. This stew comprises beef, prunes, and figs, all stewed together with a local alcohol (or wine), making the meat tender and soft. It’s commonly served with gnocchi, making it one of Croatia’s more luscious and heavy dishes!
Pršut
You can’t visit Croatia without trying their local version of Prosciutto. It’s best tried in its city of origin, Konavle, or the traditional village of Duba, where the dry wind and desert help to dry the meat to perfection.
Rožata
This popular dessert is similar to a custard pudding, featuring a bright floral secret ingredient – rose liquor, giving it its name. Dating back to medieval times, this Croatian dish is the pride of locals and is sought after by all visitors. Beware of inferior versions using vanilla extract or maraschino cherry liquor.
Activities and Sights
Dubrovnik
Culture and history come alive in this stunning coastal city, and you can capture many postcard-worthy photos of the vibrant turquoise water and the famous terracotta roofs. Cut off from the mainland by Bosnia and Herzegovina, it’s accessible via ferry from Split, and it is worth spending a few days exploring the city entirely. Feel the history come alive in the Old Town and wander past the charming streets, historic buildings, and cathedrals in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Experience culture up close by taking in a theatre show at Fort Lovrijenac, enjoying your morning coffee at Loggia Square, or walking the historic old city walls. Seeing Kings Landing on a Game of Thrones Tour is an absolute must for film and television buffs.
Split
Split is an enthralling city where culture and modern Croatian life come alive. Split is the best place to experience the unique blend of Mediterranean and Slavic culture through food, architecture, and art. Trying some of Croatia’s national dishes is a great way to experience modern Croatian culture in the city.
Take a bit of history by visiting Diocletian’s Palace, Split Old Town, Klis Fortress, or the bell tower at the Cathedral of Saint Dominus. Split is also the gateway to a Croatian natural wonder – Krka National Park, with its stunning cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush forest.
Croatian Islands
Croatia is home to over 78 official islands, but some stand out above the others and are well worth a visit to soak in Croatian island life.
Brač is one of the largest and closest to the mainland, featuring Croatia’s most popular and most beautiful beach, Zlatni Rat. Its golden shores are where you want to be relaxing on a sunny afternoon. History lovers will enjoy touring the towns of Bol and Škrip or visiting Pustinja Blaca, a 16th-century monastery.
Hvar is the island directly behind Brač and holds the title of the sunniest island in Europe. Hvar Beach is a picturesque spot to spend the day swimming and relaxing. Other beaches like Zadace Beach, Dubovica beach are equally as stunning. Enjoy a trip to the vibrant Hvar Lavender Fields and the locally made lavender products there. Adventurers can take a day trip to the Blue Cave on Bisevo Island.
Zadar
Zadar is a bit more off the beaten path than its neighboring cities, Split and Dubrovnik, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a ton of things to do here. Vibrant local markets fill the streets, offering a wide range of local artisanal products and fresh fruit and vegetables. Take a walk and visit interesting installations like the sea organ or the Greeting to the Sun monument. Explore history through some historically significant sites like the Cathedral of St Anastasia, the Church of St Donatus, Land Gate, or the Five Wells Square.
Zadar is also the perfect home base to take a day trip to the Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is filled with waterfalls and vibrant-colored lakes. Paklenica National Park is also a day trip away, featuring towering mountains that are perfect for rock climbing or bouldering.
Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, and although it’s much farther inland than the coastal area, it’s still home to tons of Croatian culture, unique sites, and beautiful history. Dolan Market is a lovely spot to shop for fresh produce and enjoy local Croatian life. Climb Lotrščak Tower for a view or continue people-watching in the historic Trg Bana Jelačića Square.
Pay a visit to the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary to admire its beautiful twin spires. You can also visit some more intriguing sites like Mirogi, one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Europe or pay a visit to the unique Museum of Broken Relationships.
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