Croatia is a beautiful country that has a diverse cultural heritage as well as an unparalleled natural splendor. The different civilizations that once flourished on this land have left their imprints on the cities in the form of art and architecture.
The geographical attributes also vary throughout the country, resulting in several unique and surreal landscapes. With numerous alluring national parks, breathtaking beaches, and intriguing islands to choose from, it can be hard for first-time visitors to decide what places to include in their itinerary. Following are some of the recommended spots that display the different facets of Croatia and offer a wholesome first adventure in this magical kingdom.
The City Of Dubrovnik
The city of Dubrovnik is a glorious coastal town that bears several historical treasures. Be it the massive stone walls that protect the interiors or the imposing Lovrijenac Fort that looms over the sea, the ancient fortifications provide an imperial appeal to the town. There are also various intricately designed buildings, such as the Sponza Palace and the Rector’s Palace, which display the craftsmanship of the forefathers. To experience the local culture, head over to the limestone-paved main street called Stradun that is decorated with ancient sculptures and is the throbbing heart of this enchanting town. Dubrovnik is one city that every traveler must visit.
Brac Island
The island of Brac is most popular for its horn-shaped beach of Zlatni Rat, often referred to as the Golden Cape. This white-pebbled strip of land that juts into the Adriatic Sea is one of the best locations in Croatia for windsurfing. If you head northwards, the sandy beaches will give way to rocky quarries that provide the famous limestone of Brac. The houses of this area are constructed using the high-quality stone that sparkles in the sunshine. The northern region also holds the oldest settlement of the island at Skrip, where there are quaint churches and interesting museums that reveal the history of Brac. The ancient carvings at Dragon’s Cave are also well worth of exploring.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
At the Plitvice Lakes National Park, you will be greeted by scenery so vibrant that it resembles a painting. Frothy streams pour into turquoise blue lakes that are surrounded by lush green vegetation. The water is rich in minerals and the deposits create ever-changing formations that act as natural dams. Walking along the trails marked by the wooden footbridges is the best way to explore the many picturesque wonders of this park. Those seeking an active vacation can also traverse the terrain on their bikes. The national park is home to colorful butterflies and also to the impressive Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in Croatia.
Hvar Island
The island of Hvar is renowned for its nightlife and is hailed as one of the best party destinations in Croatia. The golden beaches are perfect for relaxing in the warm sunshine while the vineyards and lavender fields add a rustic beauty to the interiors. You can hike up to the medieval castle of Fortica for a magnificent view of the town or can enjoy some exquisite coffee at the cafes that line St. Stephen’s Square. The monasteries of this region offer an incredibly tranquil environment while the St. Stephen’s Cathedral displays some spectacular architecture. At night, the pubs and restaurants near the beaches come to life and the celebrations continue till the late hours. And if you feel adventurous, with local yacht charter you can expolore surroundings of this island even further.
The City Of Makarska
The city of Makarska is a serene retreat with a gorgeous bay that is shaped like a horseshoe. You can enjoy the gentle waves of the Adriatic Sea at the beach or can stroll through the promenade, under the shade of coconut trees. The main town emanates an old world charm and holds medieval churches and colorful fruit markets. The Sea Shell Museum on the premises of the Franciscan Monastery is yet another interesting place to visit. This city is bordered by the mighty Biokovo Mountain which provides opportunities for adventure sports like hiking and mountain biking. Makarska is a peaceful getaway that offers a great opportunity to enjoy in the wonderful nature of this region.
These fascinating destinations offer a wonderful fusion of the cultural and natural gems. They will ensure that on your first vacation in Croatia glimpse into the best that this country has to offer. The scenery, the monuments, the colors, and the cheerful atmosphere will make you want to never leave this amazing dreamland.