From small-group & private tours to cooking classes, private transfers, the best hotels, and accommodations – we curate the most incredible authentic experiences through Europe for the entire family.
Grab a FREE CONSULTATION here to start planning your trip.
.
By Anna Fishman
Croatia has become one of the hottest summer destinations over the last few years. You may have heard about this country but don’t know much about it or you may be wondering what is all this buzz about. We are here to share with you 10 things you, probably, did not know about this amazing country.
1. Gorgeous Beaches
Croatia has a lot of beaches. One of our favorites is on the popular party destination of Hvar Island. You may say, so what? Lots of places have great beaches. What if we said, have a beach to yourself for a day? With an amazing shore and so many islands, you can always find a beach that will be just for you! Get out there and find it, bring your stress into distress, and enjoy the best of the Adriatic Sea.
2. Year-Round Mediterranean Climate
Croatia has a mild Mediterranean climate similar to the one in Italy or Greece. Every season has something amazing to offer. Kayaking, hiking, sailing, rock climbing, and horseback riding are some of the popular summer activities. Go sea kayaking in caves and wander around secluded bays. For those who like to stay active sea kayaking is very popular as the Adriatic is very calm and exploring the bays and caves is always very interesting.
In the winter visit the capital of Croatia, Zagreb. Many miss Zagreb (mistakenly!) but with so many history, science, and fun museums like the Museum of Broken Relationships, it is a must-see destination. Also, the Hungarian influence from the past makes it look similar to Budapest! It is fun, clean, and safe and it has one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe.
3. Incredible Value
Croatia has an incredible value for the United States dollar. Go outside of the main touristy areas and it will stretch even longer. Don’t you want to live like a king on your next vacation? We are here to make it a reality for you.
4. Game of Thrones Filming Locations
If you were a Game of Thrones fan, you’d love Croatia! Doubling for King’s Landing in HBO’s epic fantasy series Game of Thrones, the historic city of Dubrovnik received a record number of visitors last year. Fans are jetting off to Croatia once again to discover the settings of the fantasy series such St Dominika Street, Ethnographic Museum, Bokar Fortress, Lokrum Island, Klis Fortress, and much more.
Dubrovnik Walls
5. Island Hopping On a Private Yacht Is Not Only For Millionaires
With more than 1200 islands in Croatia, there’s no better way to explore the country than by sea. You can charter a private yacht or boat in Croatia to explore its wonderful coastline. Ask us about our sailboats, catamarans, gulets, mega yachts, and private cruise ships. Our wide range of boats gives you the freedom to customize routes, combine shorter charters with land itineraries and do one-way trips.
6. Over 120,000 Years of History
Are you a history buff? Do you love architecture? From Diocletian’s Palace that was built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the fourth century AD to Croatian National Theatre built in 1895 and the 23-story modern building, Zagrepčanka, built in 1976, Croatia has a lot of stunning and unique architecture that you will be impressed by.
Diocletian’s Palace
7. 5,000 Square Kilometers of Natural Parks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Croatia’s natural parks occupy about 8% of its land. Two of the most popular ones are Plitvice Lakes and KRKA National Park – not to be missed. The country has 9 (soon to be 10) UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit them all as they all have amazing history especially when you get to discover them with our fantastic local guides.
8. World-Class Wine, Truffles, Olive Oil and Finger-Licking Cuisine
While Croatia is beautiful it is delicious as well. Yes, the food and wine scene is absolutely amazing and, yes, you can have truffles in Croatia (they are not exclusive to Italy). Truffles are paired with amazing white wine Malvazija and award-winning olive oil from the Istria region. Yummy!
9. Underwater Wineries
If traditional wineries are no longer impressive to you, (yes, I know, first-world problems!) how about some wine from an underwater winery? If you have a certified diver you can do it yourself, or a professional diver can get one for you. They store wine on the bottom of the Adriatic Sea to age and you get the chance to have it for dinner. How cool is that?
Dive in for your next glass of wine!
10. Sea Organ and Jaw-Dropping Sunsets
Two of Zadar’s most popular attractions are the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation – two art installations, which utilize the power of nature to create beautiful sounds and sights.
In World War II, most of Zadar’s seafront was destroyed and then quickly repaired as a boring, monotonous concrete wall. In order to bring some life and something different to the seafront, architect Nikola Basic designed and opened the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation in April 2005. This is a not-to-be-missed sight in beautiful and mysterious Zadar!
For more ideas on how to enjoy Croatia, check out one of our sample itineraries here
Zadar’s Sea Organ
