Croatia is a small but beautiful country situated at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean Sea. The country lies in the northwestern part of the Balkan peninsula, with its entire coast shouldering the Adriatic Sea. Croatia is famous among travellers for its picturesque towns and beaches. If you love partying, you will find the hottest European clubs here. The country has also preserved its Roman ruins, which attracts history enthusiasts in significant numbers.
So, let’s explore some of the best places to visit in Croatia.
Top Places to Visit in Croatia
- Split
- Dubrovnik
- Rovinj
- Rijeka
- Zagreb
1. Split
The place offers an exciting fusion of history and modernity and boasts a unique small-town charm. Split is a walled city primarily famous for its oceans and grand mountains. It attracts history enthusiasts because of well-preserved Roman relics. The turquoise sea contrasts starkly with the orange-roofed houses all over the city, casting a spellbinding aura. Further, magnificent Gothic and Renaissance architecture enhances the allure of this place. Split is best known for the splendid palace erected by the Roman emperor Diocletian and is well-loved for its traditions of easy living and great food.
Things to Do at Split
- Visit the landmark Peristil Square for spectacular views of Split.
- Visit Jupiter’s Temple and St. Duje’s Cathedral.
- Go hiking at Marjan Hill’s picturesque trails.
- Savour delectable Dalmatian cuisine after visiting the famous Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Dubrovnik
Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Its well-preserved baroque and Gothic-style buildings have been transformed into historic museums. Encircled by protective walls, Dubrovnik offers numerous tourist resorts and serves as a vital seaport with a relatively small population. Dubrovnik is undeniably one of the top places to visit in Croatia. It is one of the last remaining walled towns in the world, making a walk through Dubrovnik a walk through time.
Things to Do at Dubrovnik
- Explore its beautiful valleys and peninsulas.
- Dubrovnik also offers “Star Wars” and "Game of Thrones" walking tours, as these shows were shot here.
- Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife scene of this beautiful town.
3. Rovinj
A tranquil fishing village in the Adriatic Sea, Rovinj is an archipelago comprising 20 islands. The place attracts culture and history enthusiasts. You can enjoy pebbled beaches and nap under pine trees. Impressive baroque buildings, majestic medieval city gates, and lush green parks enhance the city’s quaint charm. Let us look at the things to do in Croatia’s Rovinj.
Things to Do at Rovinj
- Visit the baroque church of St. Euphemia’s Basilica.
- Stroll on the colourful streets of Rovinj’s Old Town area.
- Admire the picturesque harbour.
- Shop for souvenirs on La Girisa and Carrera streets.
4. Rijeka
This city has maintained a unique way of life despite changing rulers and regimes. As a bustling port and shipbuilding centre, Rijeka earned the prestigious 2020 European Capital of Culture title. The place owes its charm to its people, who have always embraced diversity. Visitors flock to Rijeka to experience its local way of life, beautiful beaches, pristine seawater, and vibrant nightlife. The city offers a rich blend of gastronomy, culture, and entertainment. It takes pride in its carnival tradition, which is known worldwide.
Things to Do at Rijeka
- Take strolls along the Korzo pedestrian street.
- Take part in vibrant carnival celebrations that take place regularly.
- Visit the Peek and Poke Museum.
- Explore the surrounding Kvarner region and neighbouring Istria.
5. Zagreb
Croatia’s capital and the largest city, Zagreb, is in the northwest. It has a rich history dating back to the 2nd century AD. Today, it’s the hub for government, academia, and culture, with three main areas: the historic Upper Town, the modern Lower Town, and the commercial New Zagreb.
The Upper Town features palaces, churches, and cobblestone streets. The Lower Town offers theatres, parks, cafes, and restaurants. New Zagreb is the city’s industrial and commercial centre with skyscrapers and elegant buildings.
Things to Do at Zagreb
- Visit the Zagreb Cathedral and Treasury.
- Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships and the Croatian Museum of Naive Art.
- Go for sightseeing tours and cultural walks.
- Unwind in the serene green spaces of the Zagreb Botanical Garden and Maksimir Park.
Best Time to Visit Croatia
So far, we have discussed the top places to visit in Croatia. We also know about the things to do in Croatia. The ideal time to visit Croatia is May, June, September, and October. These periods experience pleasant and sunny weather and are also less crowded. July and August coincide with local vacations; hence, there are more crowds. The coastal areas tend to be quiet from October to March, with some hotels and tourist attractions remaining closed.
Travel Insurance for Croatia
Securing travel insurance as a bulwark for protection when planning a holiday in a foreign land is prudent. Travel insurance offers financial protection from unforeseen events, such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, baggage loss, etc. Indian citizens must purchase travel insurance as Croatia became the newest member of the Schengen group on January 1, 2023. Remaining insured allows you to enjoy the sights and sounds of new places without any worry or tension.
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