Things not to miss in Croatia

In 2013 Croatia became the 28th member to join with the European Union and tourism has never been better. Popular with families, couples and travellers alike this beautiful part of the world is fast becoming one of Europe’s favourite holiday destinations.

Built atop the ruins of ancient roman civilisation, Croatia is mythic in its beauty – with sensational sights, gastro delights and some of the very best beaches in the world.

We’re taking a look at the top 5 things to do in Croatia!

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is like something out of a fantasy – nestled in the Karst region of the country. Filled to the brim with mountains, caves, alpine trees, cascading lakes and hiking trails this majestic place of beauty is somewhere everyone can enjoy.

Waterfall in Autumn Forest

Surrounded by its guarding mountains Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest national parks established in South Eastern Europe and is most likely the inspiration for many fantastical tales.

Diocletian’s Palace

Next on our top 5 is Diocletian’s Palace, which you’ll find in Spilt, on Croatia’s western coast line, where it has stood since the turn of the fourth century. Back then it was the regal home of the famous roman emperor Diocletian – who rose from the lesser ranks to rule over the whole of the Roman Empire.

Street cafe in old town (Dubrovnik, Croatia)

Naturally, he wanted to impress this change in rank upon his subjects and so he commissioned the imposing stone structure which still stands today. Now, it proudly marks the centre of Split and offers a glimpse into the ancient world. More a large fortress than a palace though, this former imperial abode is somewhat at odds with its status.

Lošinj Island

If you’re a fan of Venice you’ll love Lonsinj – which offers water ways and historic charm with just a little extra quirk. Virtually south of the city of Rijeka, this Croatian island can be found in the northern Adriatic and has been thriving for over 12,000 years.

A photographers dream, Losinj is a vibrant island; filled with bright colours and bustling streets. Locals here depend far less on modern amenities and instead come together as a community for entertainment and socialising.

Lovrijenac

Dubbed Croatia’s Gibraltar this epic fortress sits strong upon a magnificent bed of rock, fearlessly jutting out to sea. Located just outside the walls of Dubrovnik; Lovrijenac is named so for Saint Lawrence and sits a precarious 37 metres above the sea level.

Image source from: diocletianspalace.org

Lovrijenac is a spot of stark beauty, breath taking in its resilience – another great spot for photography –  the fortress has over time blended with its surroundings and re-joined its stones to the rock face beneath, becoming a part of the natural world again.

The Museum of Contemporary Art

At number five, we’re stepping into the new world, in the form of The Museum of Contemporary Art which you can take a look around in Zagreb. This place sure looks the part – with sleek modern architecture which is worth going to see in its own right.

panoramic view of old port and St John fort in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Make a day of this visit – the museum houses over 12,000 pieces of artwork, along with a fantastic restaurant and the obligatory gift shop. Celebrating Croatian artists and their craft The Museum of Contemporary Art is a fabulous place to both soak up current Croatian culture and appreciate modern art.

It’s impossible to see all of this fantastic country in one visit, but we predict that more and more of the world will soon be appreciating the wondrous sights and cities Croatia has to offer – as well, of course, as the fabulous beaches.