Once a secret destination of in-the-know travelers, Croatia is bursting upon the international scene. And for good reason: This tiny country on the shores of the Adriatic Sea has more than its share of natural wonders, beautiful coastline and picturesque islands.
## #1 Immerse Yourself in the Splendor of Dubrovnik
The undeniably beautiful city of Dubrovnik reigns supreme as a must-visit destination, largely celebrated for the imposing defensive City Wall that gracefully embraces its historic Old Town. No sojourn to this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage City can truly be deemed complete without undertaking a memorable trek to the very summit of this ancient rampart. The act of capturing stunning selfies against the breathtaking backdrop of expansive ocean vistas and the iconic red-tile rooftops has evolved into a cherished ritual for those who ascend the wall’s steep and demanding stairs. This magnificent wall has also served as a captivating setting for the iconic King’s Landing scenes in the globally acclaimed HBO series “Game of Thrones,” and has even been utilized as a memorable location for certain scenes in the highly anticipated “Star Wars VIII.”
However, to perceive Dubrovnik solely through the lens of its City Wall would be a disservice to its multifaceted charm. The city’s authentic treasures are carefully concealed within the Wall’s protective embrace. After all, the formidable 82-foot-high, 6-foot-thick fortification was purposefully constructed to safeguard a collection of precious assets and cultural heritage.
That “something” which the wall was built to protect, encompasses a rich tapestry of 15th and 16th-century monasteries, insightful museums, awe-inspiring churches, captivating fountains, intricate sculptures, and majestic palaces. These architectural marvels collectively warrant an entire afternoon dedicated to leisurely strolling along the Stradun, allowing visitors to fully appreciate their magnificence. Make certain to venture off the well-trodden, wide, and polished limestone pedestrian path and explore the labyrinthine network of narrow alleys. These hidden pathways are brimming with fascinating nooks and crannies, where charming galleries, unique shops, and significant landmarks await discovery. Among these hidden gems is Europe’s second-oldest Judaic house of worship, a testament to the city’s diverse historical and cultural landscape.
As the sun gracefully descends, casting a warm golden glow over the city, the Old Town’s casual daytime crowds undergo a captivating transformation, evolving into a sophisticated gathering of beautiful individuals. Residents and visitors alike don their finest attire and venture out to savor exquisite dinners, attend vibrant clubs or captivating concerts, or promenade along the bustling Placa. The Placa pulsates with a vibrant energy, a harmonious blend of life and music that resonates well into the early hours of the morning.
Expert tip: Enhance your Dubrovnik experience by planning your visit to coincide with the renowned 67th Libertas summer festival, which takes place annually from July 10 to August 25, 2016. This esteemed annual celebration of the arts is skillfully presented in venues that are, in themselves, remarkable works of art. Immerse yourself in the magic of Shakespearean performances at the historic Fort Lovrijenac (pronounced loave-rih-yen-ats), engage in thought-provoking discussions at the writers’ forum scheduled to be held on the tranquil island of Lokrum (pronounced low-crume), and be captivated by the enchanting opera performances that resound in front of the magnificent St. Blaise Cathedral, and so much more.
## #2 Embark on a Hiking Adventure Through Plitvice Lakes National Park
This extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage site is a sprawling 12,000-acre Garden of Eden, a natural wonderland adorned with an abundance of waterfalls in all conceivable shapes, sizes, and configurations. These cascading waterfalls gracefully connect the park’s sixteen crystal clear turquoise lakes, creating a mesmerizing aquatic network. The experience of meandering through the park’s enchanting forests and navigating its unique rock formations is nothing short of an unforgettable adventure. As you explore, be sure to keep a watchful eye out for the diverse array of wildlife that calls Plitvice home, including graceful deer, elusive wolves, robust wild boar, and even the occasional majestic bear.
Within the boundaries of Plitvice, the park authorities have implemented a strict policy: off-trail hiking is strictly prohibited. Visitors are required to adhere to the meticulously groomed hiking routes, ensuring the preservation of the delicate environment and safeguarding against potential disorientation. A wrong turn could result in an unexpected and extended hike, often leading uphill, potentially adding an hour or more to your journey. The designated routes encompass well-marked gravel and rock paths, as well as carefully constructed planked walks, some of which feature steps. By utilizing the universally recognized directional signs or consulting the park map, visitors can curate their own DIY itineraries, which can span from a quick two-hour excursion to a comprehensive eight-hour exploration.
Recognizing the importance of accessibility, Plitvice also offers paths designed to accommodate wheelchairs. These accessible routes grant even those with limited physical fitness the opportunity to witness the breathtaking Veliki Slap (pronounced vell-eek-ee slap, meaning Big Waterfall) and explore Prošćansko (pronounced prosh-sahn-skoea), Plitvice’s highest and largest lake. Furthermore, environmentally conscious buses provide regular transportation to and from the park’s major attractions.
Whether you choose to dedicate a couple of hours or an entire day to exploring Plitvice, the park offers a wealth of natural beauty to discover. When the day draws to a close, venture outside the park’s boundaries to find a range of campsites, hotels, and private accommodations, enabling you to prolong your immersion in Plitvice’s captivating beauty. It’s important to note that camping is not permitted within the park’s grounds.
The park’s convenient location makes it an easy day trip from Zagreb, where many organized park tours originate. When hunger strikes, be sure to sample the local specialty: “lamb (or pork) on a stick,” a delectable spit-roasted meat prepared by vendors who line the roads that run alongside the park.
Expert tip: For a more substantial and authentic dining experience, venture to Lička Kuča (pronounced leech-kah cooch-ah), a traditional establishment where meat is cooked over open coals and under a dome, using the time-honored Croatian Peka (pronounced peck-ah) cooking method.
## #3 Savor the Flavors of Istria: An Epicurean Adventure
Istria has long enjoyed recognition as the very cradle of the country’s vibrant hospitality, burgeoning food scene, and thriving wine industries. A captivating tapestry of lush vineyards, sprawling olive groves, innovative food-forward restaurants, exquisite local delicacies, compelling art, and dynamic music festivals thrive within its borders. To this rich cultural landscape, add a stunning Venetian-style coastline, picturesque hilltop towns, remarkable Roman ruins, and a palpable joie de vivre that stems from its deep-seated Italian roots, and Istria emerges as one of the most exceptional destinations in the world for discovery, relaxation, and pure indulgence.
To truly and thoroughly experience all that this triangular-shaped peninsula has to generously offer, one should allocate a full week of exploration. What follows is a carefully curated collection of suggestions designed to guide you in discovering Istria’s most cherished treasures.
* Delve into the rich history of Pula’s (pronounced pool-ah) impressive 2nd Century amphitheater and its intriguing underground museum, or attend an enchanting evening concert within the ancient stone stadium seats.
* Embark on a captivating water shuttle journey to explore the fascinating artifacts housed at Briunji (pronounced bree-une-ee), once Tito’s exclusive private resort island.
* Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Rovinj (pronounced roe-veen-yah), widely regarded as Croatia’s most photographed town.
* Marvel at the intricate mosaics adorning Poreč’s (pronounced pore-etch) Euphrasius Basilica, another of Croatia’s seven distinguished UNESCO World Heritage sites.
* Indulge your adventurous spirit with a spelunking expedition at the nearby Baredine Cave.
* Pay a visit to Hum (pronounced whom), recognized as the world’s smallest town, or savor a memorable meal at Zigante (pronounced jig-ahnt-ae), home to the world’s largest white truffle and the esteemed man who unearthed it.
* Pop into Pazin’s captivating ethnographic museum and witness the dramatic chasm that served as the inspiration for Jules Verne’s renowned “Mathias Sandorf.”
* Embark on a scenic drive to the charming village of Beram, and enlist the assistance of a local villager to guide you to St. Mary of the Rock, nestled deep within the enchanting woods. The vibrant “Dance of the Dead” fresco inside is a testament to the area’s rich artistic history.
* Acquire a detailed map showcasing Istria’s renowned wine and olive oil roads, and dedicate a day (or two, or even three) to indulging in delightful tastings and even participating in the harvesting of grapes and olives.
Expert tip: Within Istria, there are virtually no culinary disappointments to be found. A reliable rule of thumb: the tinier the konoba (café), the more authentic and undeniably delicious the food on offer.
## #4 Dive into Adventure: Get Your Feet Wet in Croatia
Boasting a remarkable archipelago of over 1,100 islands scattered off the mainland, Croatia undeniably stands as a true watersport enthusiast’s paradise. Sailing, exhilarating windsurfing, captivating SCUBA diving, serene snorkeling, refreshing swimming, and simply splashing around in the crystal-clear blue waters are deeply ingrained Croatian obsessions.
In the eyes of a Croat, a beach is defined as any point where land gracefully meets the water. Among the numerous coastal treasures, Kornati National Park, situated off the coast of Šibenik (pronounced she-ben-ick) in the central part of the coastline, holds a unique significance. The roughly 150 islands that comprise Kornati are largely barren above ground, but conceal a precious and sought-after feature: a submerged mountain range teeming with breathtaking underwater rock formations and a diverse array of fish species. If you possess a passion for snorkeling and/or SCUBA diving, a visit to Kornati is an absolute must.
Expert tip: To ensure the preservation of the park’s delicate ecosystem, all SCUBA divers are required to be certified by the National Park to explore the designated diving areas of Kornati. For an authentic and unforgettable experience, consider spending a night in a traditional cottage that Kornati sheepherders and farmers utilize as temporary shelter during their work.
## #5 Embrace Serenity: Find Your Zen in Zadar
The fifth-largest city in Croatia, Zadar, arguably stands as the country’s most eclectic and captivating urban center. Its Riva (waterfront promenade) is exceptionally long and impressively wide. As night descends, the Riva transforms into a bustling hub of activity, filled with people leisurely strolling, vendors peddling a variety of delectable food and intriguing trinkets, Klapa (pronounced klah-pah) performers delivering enchanting acapella performances, and daring jugglers showcasing their mesmerizing fire-swallowing skills. Find a comfortable spot at one end of the Riva to observe the ferries bound for Italy and other intriguing destinations as they gracefully arrive and depart. Afterward, make your way to the opposite end and immerse yourself in the gently haunting melodies produced by Nikola Bašić’s innovative Sea Organ (pronounced bah-sitch). This ingenious instrument skillfully harnesses the power of wind, tides, and ship wakes to create a symphony of one-of-a-kind sounds. The Sea Organ is truly unique, as is its dazzling light-show sister installation, Greeting to the Sun, also conceived by Bašić. These artistic marvels are strategically positioned to allow visitors to simultaneously experience both captivating displays.
Expert tip: For an unparalleled multi-sensory experience, position yourself along the Riva approximately 30 minutes before sunset. Prepare to witness what the legendary Alfred Hitchcock once famously proclaimed as the world’s most beautiful sunset, painting the sky with an awe-inspiring palette of colors.
## #6 Immerse Yourself in Local Life: Shop the Market
Every community in and around Zagreb boasts a permanent open-air market, a vibrant hub where homemade cheese, tangy pickles, an abundance of fresh produce, high-quality meat, and delectable fish are readily available for purchase. However, no market comes closer to embodying pure theatrical energy than the spectacle under the signature red umbrellas of Zagreb’s Dolac (pronounced dole-ahtch) Market, situated north of the city center, near Jelačić Square (pronounced yell-ahtch-its). Take your time to browse the diverse array of stalls, observing the vendors as they skillfully sell their fruits, vegetables, and an extensive selection of items ranging from everyday soap powder to luxurious caviar. Alternatively, find a comfortable spot to sit and savor a steaming cup of bijela kava (white coffee) accompanied by a generous slice of delectable cherry strudel. Once you’ve had your fill of observing the spirited interactions between older women in traditional babushkas and impeccably manicured women in designer attire haggling over the price of a chicken, take a short stroll, approximately half a block, to Tkalčićeva (pronounced ti-kahl-chee-chay-vah) Street. This vibrant thoroughfare is teeming with an eclectic assortment of bars, enticing restaurants, trendy boutiques, and a lively social scene.
Or find a spot to sit while you sip a cup of bijela kava (white coffee) and eat a slice of cherry strudel. When you’ve had your fill of watching old women in babushkas go toe to toe with manicured women in designer clothes over a chicken, walk half a block to Tkalčićeva (ti-kahl-chee-chay-vah) Street where bars, restaurants, boutiques, and a robust social scene abound
Expert tip: To secure the freshest and highest-quality produce, it’s advisable to arrive early in the morning. However, if you’re seeking the best bargains, consider visiting just before closing time, typically between 2-3 pm. Vendors often significantly reduce prices late in the day to avoid the inconvenience of transporting their leftover goods back home.
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