Places to Visit in Croatia

1. Zagreb

The capital of Croatia, Zagreb boasts a beautiful medieval old town and plenty of museums, galleries, theaters, and historical sights. The nearby Jarun Lake is a popular place for swimming, sailing, and dancing in lakeside discos, but Zagreb's many beautiful parks mean that you don't even have to leave the city to spend some time in nature. The city is also a great winter destination; the many restaurants, bars, and cafes make it easy to stay warm, and good skiing can be had at Mt. Medvednica, which offers great views of the city and is easily accessible by tram or by bus.

2. Plitvice National Park

Located in central Croatia, Plitvice National Park is an area of exceptional natural beauty that has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1979. The park is home to 16 crystalline lakes, which are connected to each other by a series of waterfalls and cascades. A ticket is required to enter the park, and visitors should note that swimming in the lakes is not permitted. Exploring the park on foot takes at least 6 hours, but visitors can also take advantage of the free boats and buses offered by the park, which depart every half hour between April and October.

3. Split

Positioned on a peninsula that juts out into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic, Split offers the perfect blend of impressive history and convenient modernity. The historic city center has been on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1979; this is where visitors can find the sprawling Diocletian's Palace, which is recognized as one of the best-preserved pieces of Roman architecture in the world.

Visitors should also make time for a stroll along the waterfront promenade known as the Riva, which is lined with restaurants, bars, and cafes, and regularly hosts cultural events and other forms of entertainment.

4. Opatija

Opatija was one of the most popular retreats for the wealthy during the time of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and today it remains one of the chicest destinations in Croatia. Spectacular mansions left over from this period line the coast, lending the city a certain air of grandeur. The weather is excellent all year round, and tourists are well catered to, with plenty of spas, restaurants, and upscale hotels. The city is fronted by a 12-km-long coastal promenade, and visitors wishing to jump in the warm waters of the Adriatic can do so in one of the area’s beautiful sheltered bays.

5. Dubrovnik

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is an awe-inspiring walled city that has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. Tourism is the principal industry here, so there is no shortage of restaurants, bars, and hotels. Many visitors enjoy simply strolling through the city's marble streets or along the ancient city walls, but other popular activities include chartered yacht tours, kayaking, and swimming in the beautiful blue waters of the sea. There are also excellent views to be had from the top of Mount Srd, which can be reached either by foot or by cable car.

6. Hvar

As the sunniest spot in Croatia, the island of Hvar draws tourists from all over the world. There's something for everyone here, whether you're looking for an exciting night out on the town or hoping to get close to nature. Hvar Town is the capital of the island, and it offers beautiful architecture, jam-packed beach bars, and plenty of elegant restaurants. Beautiful coves can be found on the isolated southern end of the island; these make for a great day trip. Hvar is also known for its lavender, olives, and wine, so head inland to admire ancient olive trees, beautiful craggy peaks, and rolling lavender fields.

7. Korcula

The sixth-largest Croatian island, Korcula is known for its dense forests, quiet coves, and secluded sandy beaches. Korcula Town charms visitors with its medieval squares and churches, but the island is also dotted with plenty of small towns and villages perfect for anyone looking for a quieter holiday. History and tradition are alive and well on the island; visitors can enjoy watching the Moreška sword dance, age-old religious ceremonies, and live performances of traditional folk music. Korcula also produces some excellent wine, including white wine made from pošip grapes, which are grown only here and on the Pelješac Peninsula.

8. Kornati National Park

Encompassing 89 of the 140 islands that make up the Kornati archipelago, Kornati National Park is often described as a nautical paradise. The islands are uninhabited, and most are made of karst limestone, which forms dramatic cliffs, caves, and grottoes. The tightly knit islands provide an excellent challenge for even experienced sailors; anyone who wishes to sail through the National Park must purchase a ticket. It is also possible to visit the islands on a guided day trip from Zadar, Sibenik, or Split. Visitors can hike on the islands, swim and snorkel in the many beautiful bays, or join an organized diving excursion.

9. Krk, Croatia

Connected to the mainland of Croatia by a toll bridge, Krk is the largest island in the country. The island is well developed and boasts plenty of infrastructure for tourism as well as an airport that is open between April and October. Most tourists base themselves out of Krk Town, a medieval walled city with a bustling seaside promenade and historical attractions such as the 12th-century St. Mary’s Cathedral and Frankopan Castle. Visitors can also explore the island's many secluded beaches and authentic Mediterranean fishing villages or indulge in the wine and olives the region is known for.

10. Krka National Park

Encompassing 142 square km along the Krka River, the Krka National Park is best known for being home to a number of stunning waterfalls. The most popular of these are the Skradinski Buk falls, which are one of the most famous sights in the entire country. However, the park is home to plenty of other worthwhile sights as well, including secluded monasteries, diverse wildlife, and the 200-meter-deep karstic canyon through which the river runs. The park can be accessed by car through any of the five main entrances, which are found at Skradin, Lozovac, Roški Slap, the Krka Monastery, and Burnum.