Croatia has become the must-visit European holiday destination gaining popularity for its beautiful beaches and the enchanting city of Dubrovnik, but Croatia’s appeal goes so much further and is still relatively unknown. Croatia is hugely diverse and a melting pot of cultural influences, fascinating history, stunning national parks and all set against the glistening crystal-clear Adriatic. Here are our top 10 reasons Croatia should be your next holiday destination…
The Adriatic enjoys some of the clearest water in Europe and Croatia boasts an indented coastline with intimate bays and inlets. The beaches are stunning, often surrounded by forests and pine trees and with beautiful white stone pebbles, set against the turquoise waters.
8 National parks and 11 nature parks, many of which are mind-blowing. From mountain ranges to cluster of uninhabited islands. The most well-known are the emerald lakes of Plitvice National park, followed by the waterfalls of the Krka river, both can be explored via boardwalks and leisurely hiking trails.
With many islands set just off the coast, you can split your time between the ancient cities, coastline and rural countryside of the mainland with time on the islands.
The marble streets of Split’s old town are actually a living museum – the complex of ancient Roman streets, palaces, churches, piazzas, underground vaults were built by Roman Emperor Diocletian to retire in his native Dalmatia. Today, the city within a city is a warren of ancient ruins, restaurants and cafes.
On the bucket list of many, Dubrovnik has an ‘out of this world’ charm, hence its selection as the set for Game of Thrones and Star Wars. Climbing the walls and spending a day at the city’s beaches, as well as kayaking off the coast are some of the city’s highlights.
Dubrovnik gets much of the attention, but lesser-known towns have a huge historical significance, imposing forts and UNESCO status. Zadar and is one of these towns. A mix of ancient Roman ruins and cosmopolitan urban life and café culture.
Croatia has been producing wines since the ancient Romans but low volumes mean the majority of the wine is consumed in Croatia and rightly so, it’s too good to export. You may realise you’re not quite the connoisseur when it comes to Croatian wine but that makes exploring the wine regions all the more fun.
The coast has an abundance of fresh seafood and some of the best oysters in the world. Every region has its own speciality. Istria is often hailed as ‘the new Tuscany’ and home to hilltop towns and forests protecting the elusive Truffle.
There is an abundance of events and festivals throughout Croatia, including boutique music festivals, film, art and culture, and gastro events. Many are held in unique and atmospheric settings, such as the Pula Amphitheatre, the Lovrijenac fort, St Michael’s fortress and Diocletian’s Palace.
Croatia boasts wonderful heritage properties and luxury hotels, that offer unique experiences. From old town palaces, converted castles, glamorous cliffside hotels overlooking the Adriatic and glamping resorts in nature.
Want to experience Croatia for yourself? Email us at croatia@fleewinter.com or call +44 (0)20 7112 0019 and we will design a tailor-made Croatia holiday for you. All holidays ABTA and/or ATOL protected.
“Coffee drinking is the biggest social past-time in Croatia, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a takeaway cup. Croatia’s quality espresso should be enjoyed with friends while watching the world go by. No matter how busy you are there is always time to stop for a cup.” – Ash O’Neill, Croatia Specialist