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Top 8 Things to Do in Croatia
Catalogue
- 1. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Explore the Historic City of Dubrovnik
- 2. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Discover the Diocletian's Palace in Split
- 3. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Relax on the Beaches of Hvar
- 4. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
- 5. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Sail the Dalmatian Islands
- 6. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Go Truffle Hunting in Istria
- 7. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Witness the Sea Organ in Zadar
- 8. Top Things to Do in Croatia: Party All Night in Split
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Overhead view of Split, Croatia (source)
Are you a person who likes to take the road less travelled? Then Croatia is a fantastic country to choose. While it has loads of history and beautiful sights, and is safe and considered affordable to travel to, it's not necessarily at the top of every explorer's bucket list.
This is good for you though, intrepid reader, as you won't have to wrestle with throngs of tourists to enjoy Croatia's offerings. So before other people discover it, jet off to this amazing nation.
Here are the 8 best things to do in Croatia while you're there.
People walking the city wall of Dubrovnik, Croatia (source)
The Old Town of Dubrovnik is a sight to behold. It's a massive, stunning walled city with alleyways that take you to museums and restaurants throughout.
If it feels familiar as you're walking through Dubrovnik, it's because scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed in several areas in this city. If you're a fan, it could be worth your time to book a tour that takes you to the filming locations.
Not only can you explore the city itself, but you can also walk the town's walls. They're a UNESCO World Heritage site and span almost 2,000m in length.
Stay at the City Hotel Dubrovnik to be a short 5-minute walk from Dubrovnik Shopping Minčeta and Luka Gruz. Plus, there are excellent terrace views.
A view of the top of Diocletian's Palace in Split, Croatia (source)
The Diocletian's Palace is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it was built for the Roman Emperor of the same name. This magnificent palace stood in the 4th century, which adds to the old-town feel of Split.
It takes up half of the city, which makes it more of a fortress than a palace - several scenes of Game of Thrones were filmed here too.
Today, the Diocletian's Palace houses various apartments, as well as shops and restaurants. You can have a great time shopping and eating while admiring the Ancient Roman architecture.
For an unforgettable time, book a room at Gothic Palace Heritage. You'll literally be steps away from the Diocletian's Palace.
The town square of Hvar, Croatia (source)
Need to take a breath and get away from the stresses of everyday life? Then one of the best things to do in Croatia is relax on the beaches of Hvar.
Hvar Island is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, and do a wide variety of water sports.
When you've had your fill of the sandy coasts, make sure to visit Tvrdjava Fortica (a Spanish fortress) and explore Old Town. Then return to your room in Hotel Park Hvar, which is conveniently located in the centre of Hvar. If you like partying, then you're in luck, as Hvar Town is known as the town that never sleeps.
A waterfall in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia (source)
Here's yet another UNESCO World Heritage site, which makes Plitvice Lakes National Park one of the top places to visit in Croatia. It's great for a day trip if you're in Zagreb or Zadar already, as you can easily reach the oldest and largest national park in the country.
In this park, there are wooden plank trails that take you through breathtaking areas. There are 16 lakes and over 90 waterfalls, so you'll find yourself stopping regularly to capture these gorgeous views.
In addition to hiking trails, Plitvice Lakes National Park also has boat rentals and lake tours. Unfortunately, you can't swim in the lakes' waters.
A room at Etno Garden will place you close to the national park's entrance. Considering that there are only 12 guestrooms, it won't be crowded or noisy.
Close-up of a sail on a sailboat at sea (source)
Those who love being out on open waters shouldn't miss out on sailing the picturesque Dalmatian Islands, which include Brač, Vis, Korčula, and Mljet. Croatia has 1,185 islands in its archipelago, meaning water-farers will never get bored.
The Adriatic Sea provides favourable conditions for sailing, as there's a mild Mediterranean climate and very predictable winds. This can make land lovers find a new appreciation for the sea.
As you island hop, you'll enjoy pristine beaches with clear waters, as well as charming fishing villages. Your boats may even anchor to allow swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing.
A dog aiding in truffle hunting in the forest (source)
For something truly unique, go truffle hunting in Istria. Yes, you can find truffles across the globe, but Istria is the place to be if you fancy black and white truffles.
You'll get to walk away from civilisation and into the Motovun Forest, which has jaw-dropping scenery. The truffle hunting itself will be thrilling and challenging at the same time, as they're not easy to root up at all.
Once you're done, be sure to taste fresh and locally prepared dishes with these fungi. For example, your taste buds will have an explosion of flavours when dining on truffle mac and cheese.
In the coastal city of Zadar, you'll discover the Sea Organ. This incredible installation has 35 organ pipes beneath marble steps. Have a seat, and you'll be treated to the sea waves lapping at the pipes, creating an impromptu and natural peace.
While you're here, why not head to the nearby Sun Salutation? This 22-metre circular solar panel has 300 multi-layered glass plates, which collect energy from the sun during the day. When night falls, you'll feast your eyes on a delightful light show.
Book a room at Palazzo Venezia, which is an adults-only accommodation. You'll be well-rested after a good night's sleep, and you'll be steps away from the Sea Gate.
A DJ performing at a packed nightclub (source)
As a party animal, one of the best things to do in Croatia is to party all night in Split. There's no shortage of nightclubs and bars in this large city, meaning there won't be a dull moment.
What's great is that Split is home to world-class nightclubs that receive renowned DJs. For instance, you can club hop from Central Club to Vanilla Club. And if you're in town at the right time, you can score a ticket to the hugely popular Ultra Music Festival.
To ensure you have enough energy for those long nights, stay at Jupiter Luxury Hotel. You'll be centrally located in the city, so you're never far from your comfortable bed.
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