Blessed with a mild, continental climate, Croatia has much to offer in its 34,735 square miles of contrasting mountainous and lowland scenery, with a dazzling and extensive Mediterranean coastline boasting over 700 picturesque islands (only 60 of which are populated), magnificent beaches, and rocky coves. It has eight national parks: Risnjak, the Plitvice Lakes, North Velebit, Kornati, the islands of Mljet and Brijuni, Krka, and Paklenica.
Zagreb is the country’s busy capital. Agriculture, cattle breeding, fisheries, shipbuilding, commerce, road and sea traffic, and tourism form the backbone of the Croatian economy. Jewels in Croatia’s cultural crown include the medieval old towns of Dubrovnik and Trogik, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and Euphrasia’s Basilica in Porec—all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Croatian people are passionate about their traditions. Many local fold groups perform age old customs and dances. Fish feats, election of local kings and carnivals all add to the color and vibrancy of this country of contrasts nostalgic yet forward thinking.
Regional dishes include Dalmatian smoked ham, Gavrilovic salami, sausages from Slavonia, salted sardines and sheep’s cheese. Local brandies come in flavors such as grape and plum Wine from Croatia’s numerous vineyards are well worth a try.
Here are 10 thing to do while visitng Croatia.
1. Become familiar with Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, by strolling through the old section called Kaptol, where you can see the beautiful cathedral and can enjoy traditional dishes at local restaurants.
2. View wild rivers amid beautiful natural surroundings at Plitvice Lakes (pictured to the right,) one of Croatia’s many national parks.
3. Don’t miss the city of Split, which offers excellent diving, sailing and winter surfing.
4. Visit Hvar Island and inhale the fragrance of pine and almond trees while strolling on the riva (a pedestrian walkway with benches.)
5. Explore Dubrovnik, also called “Pearl of the Adriatic.” Walk in the Stradun, discover the beauty of the Old City, and enjoy the summer festivals held in the open space.
6. Walk atop the medieval City Wall of Dubrovnik, with its fortresses and towers, for a breathtaking and panoramic view of the city’s landscape.
7. Browse the shops in Zagreb’s Jelacic Square and enjoy a refreshment in one of the cafes.
8. Discover the fascination with graffiti on Zagreb’s Branimirova Ulica, the city’s public canvas for local artists to create their graffiti artwork.
9. Stroll down the Riva, one of the Croatia’s busiest promenades in Split, as well as the pedestrian-only Marmontova Street for some local ambience.
10. Sample local cuisine…Croatians enjoy roasted meats and fish stew. Later try a flavored brandy or the thick red Dignac wine.
