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 Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Introduction to Croatia
The modern country of Croatia (Hrvatska in Croatian) was created in 1991 with the dissolution of Yugoslavia, making it one of the youngest countries in the world. Croatia has existed as a distinct political entity since the 7th century, soon after the Slavs moved into the region, when the former Roman province of Dalmatia became a duchy, which would in turn come under the vassalage of the Franks and the Byzantines. A dynasic union joined Croatia with Hungary in 1102. In 1526 the dual kingdom was absorbed into the Habsburg Empire, and Croatia would remain an integral part of the Habsburg domain for nearly 400 years, until the end of the First World War.
Croatia joined the European Union in 2013. According to Eurostat, half of the Croatian population can speak English reasonably fluently, the highest percentage in the former communist bloc after Estonia and neighbouring Slovenia, and also the highest percentage in Mediterranean Europe apart from countries like Malta and Cyprus where English is an official language. With 90% of the population owning their home, Croatia enjoys one of the highest home ownerships in the world.
In 2017, 14 million foreign tourists visited Croatia, about as many as in India. It is the 21st most visited country in the world. Croatia has 8 sites listed by the UNESCO as Cultural World Heritage and two as Natural World Heritage. Another 15 sites are on the tentative list. The Dalmatian coast boasts one of the highest densities of World Heritage sites in the world. The country is also rich with intangible culture and holds fifteen of UNESCO's World's intangible culture masterpieces, the fourth highest in the world.
The population of Croatia is only 4 million, with 1.2 million living in and around the capital, Zabreb. Most of the population is concentrated along the northern border with Slovenia and Hungary and in a few cities along the Mediterranean coast, leaving most of the inner country very sparsely populated. This is a boon for nature lovers as Croatia boasts some of Europe's best national parks, which are particularly renowned for their beautiful mountains, lakes and waterfalls.
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History of Croatia
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Explore Croatia's rich history from ancient Roman rule through medieval kingdoms, foreign occupations, Yugoslav federation, to independence in 1991 and NATO membership in 2009.
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| Croatian Cuisine
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Discover Croatia's diverse culinary heritage, from hearty inland dishes to Mediterranean coastal delicacies. Explore traditional peka, brodet, and regional specialities.
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Attractions
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Northern Croatia
| Poreč ※ |
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 Poreč, a charming coastal town on Croatia's Istrian peninsula, boasts over 2,000 years of history with remarkable Roman, Byzantine and Venetian influences evident in its architecture. The town's main attraction is the 6th-century UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, renowned for its spectacular golden mosaics. Beyond its historical treasures, Poreč offers vibrant beaches, a bustling marina, and excellent opportunities for cycling and water sports. The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Istrian flavours, featuring fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and the region's prized truffles. The town comes alive after sunset with its waterfront bars and clubs, whilst during the day, visitors can explore hidden cafes and boutique shops along the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Baredine Cave presents an fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites. |
| Rovinj |
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 Rovinj, a picturesque coastal town on Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, was originally an island until the 18th century when it was connected to the mainland. The town's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured buildings, where Italian influences blend seamlessly with Croatian culture, as evidenced by locals greeting with 'Ciao' instead of 'Dobar Dan'. The area is renowned for its culinary excellence, particularly its truffles, high-quality olive oil, and locally-produced wines, whilst the Batana Eco-Museum, recognised by UNESCO, preserves the heritage of traditional wooden fishing boats. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Golden Cape Forest Park for hiking and cycling, or venture to the Rovinj Archipelago, comprising 14 stunning islands and islets. The town's artistic spirit thrives along Grisia Street, which is lined with galleries and boutiques showcasing local artisans. For those seeking gastronomic adventures, the local cuisine masterfully blends Venetian influences with Istrian traditions, featuring delectable seafood, handmade pasta, and truffle-infused dishes. |
| Pula |
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 Pula, the largest city in Croatia's Istrian peninsula, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern life. The city's crown jewel is the remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, known as the Pula Arena, which is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas globally and still hosts cultural events and concerts. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Pula has been shaped by various civilisations, including Romans, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians, each leaving their distinctive mark on the cityscape. Beyond its historical treasures, Pula boasts pristine beaches along the Adriatic Sea, a vibrant local market built in the Vienna Secession style, and a rich tradition of wine-making, fishing, and shipbuilding. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Cape Kamenjak, known for its untouched beaches, aromatic Mediterranean herbs, and occasional dolphin sightings, whilst the Pula Aquarium, housed in an 1886 Austro-Hungarian fortress, stands as Croatia's largest aquarium, showcasing diverse marine life from the Adriatic Sea. The local cuisine is renowned for its Istrian truffle dishes and fresh seafood platters, offering visitors a genuine taste of the region. |
| Rijeka |
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Rijeka, Croatia's third-largest city and principal seaport, is a vibrant cultural hub nestled along the Adriatic Sea. This historic maritime city boasts several fascinating claims to fame: it's the birthplace of the world's first modern torpedo, houses Europe's only permanently displayed Titanic lifejacket, and features Croatia's only computer museum. The city centre is dominated by the Korzo, a lively promenade filled with shops and cafés, whilst the medieval Trsat Castle perches 138 metres above sea level, offering panoramic views of the bay. As a testament to its pioneering spirit, Rijeka hosted Croatia's first punk band, first rock band, and even established the country's first psychiatric hospital. The local cuisine reflects its coastal location, with fresh seafood being a staple in traditional konobas (taverns), where visitors can sample authentic Adriatic dishes. The city's rich heritage is visible in its architecture, from its own leaning tower (tilting 40cm) to the unique Baroque rotunda of St Vitus Cathedral. |
| Zagreb |
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Zagreb, Croatia's capital, is a charming blend of Central European elegance and Mediterranean spirit, situated 170 kilometres from the Adriatic Sea. The city boasts the world's shortest funicular, with a 66-metre track and a mere 64-second journey connecting the Lower and Upper towns. Zagreb holds the distinction of having the most museums per capita globally, including unique institutions like the Museum of Broken Relationships. The historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad) features 217 gas lamps that have been lit by hand since 1863, whilst the Lower Town showcases the impressive 'Green Horseshoe', a series of parks and gardens. The city harbours fascinating scientific heritage, being the birthplace of modern seismology and home to remarkable discoveries, including a prehistoric whale so unique it was named after the city. Food enthusiasts can explore the vibrant Dolac Market and savour local specialities like Zagreb steak, a breaded meat stuffed with cheese and ham. The city's cultural significance is further highlighted by its cinematic history, with three Oscar-winning films—Sophie's Choice, Tin Drum, and Fiddler on the Roof—having been partially filmed here. |
| Plitvice Lakes National Park ※ |
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 Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia's oldest and largest national park, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 16 interconnected lakes that change colours from blue to turquoise and green depending on the sunlight and minerals. The lakes, formed over millennia by calcium carbonate deposits creating natural tufa barriers, are linked by more than 90 waterfalls cascading through a magnificent karst landscape. The park's pristine forests harbour an impressive array of wildlife, including one of Europe's largest lynx populations, along with wolves and bears. Beyond its natural wonders, the area boasts a rich culinary heritage, with the Lika region renowned for its home-made specialities, particularly its dairy products, honey, lamb dishes, and what are considered Croatia's finest potatoes. The park's most dramatic feature is the Great Waterfall, towering at 70 metres high with mist visible for miles through the thick foliage. |
Central Croatia
| Northern Velebit National Park ※ |
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 Northern Velebit National Park, established in 1999 as Croatia's youngest national park, is a remarkable wilderness area covering 109 km² of Croatia's largest mountain range. The park boasts extraordinary biodiversity, including the famous endemic Croatian Sibireja plant that can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C. Notable attractions include Lukina jama, Croatia's deepest cave and the 14th deepest globally at 1,431m, and the Premužić Trail, built in 1933, which winds through the park's most scenic areas. The park's cultural heritage is preserved in numerous ruins of shepherd lodges and stone walls, whilst the House of Velebit visitor centre in Krasno village offers a fascinating four-floor journey through local folklore, including tales of fairies, witches, and werewolves. Since 2017, the park's ancient beech forests have been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the entire area forms part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves. |
| Zadar ※ |
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Zadar, Croatia's oldest continuously inhabited city with over 3,000 years of history, is a captivating coastal gem where ancient meets modern on the Dalmatian coast. The city's main street, Kalelarga, is said to be even older than the city itself and remains the vibrant pulse of urban life. Zadar's most innovative attractions include the Sea Organ, which creates music from ocean waves, and the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light installation that doubles as a mini planetarium. The city is surrounded by an extraordinary archipelago of 150 islands, making it a paradise for sailing enthusiasts. Zadar's culinary scene is renowned for its Paški cheese from the 'moon island' of Pag, where sheep graze on aromatic herbs that influence the distinctive taste of both the cheese and the famous Pag lamb. The city gained additional fame when Alfred Hitchcock declared its sunset the most beautiful in the world. For a truly unique local experience dating back to the 14th century, visitors can cross the harbour via traditional 'barkajoli' boat service rather than using the modern bridge. |
| Paklenica National Park ※ |
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Paklenica National Park, established in 1949 and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017, spans 95 square kilometres of magnificent pine forests in Dalmatia. The park features two dramatic canyons, Velika and Mala Paklenica, with canyon walls rising up to 800 metres, whilst the park's highest peak, Vaganski Vrh, reaches 1,757 metres above sea level. The park's name derives from 'paklina', the black pine sap historically used by locals for coating boats and natural remedies. Nature enthusiasts can explore 115 caves, including the stunning Manita Peć cave with its remarkable formations of stalagmites and stalactites. Film buffs might recognise the landscape from the 1960s Winnetou films about an Apache chief, with filming locations still accessible today. The park houses unique cultural monuments called 'mirila', 17th-century stone memorials marking where deceased mountain dwellers were laid to rest during their final journey down the mountain. Wildlife spotters might glimpse bears, wolves, lynx, and golden eagles, whilst botanists can discover over 1,000 plant species, many of them endemic. Visitors can refresh themselves at several historic spots, including the Marasović Tavern and the Bunker café, which is housed within an intriguing 1950s Yugoslav Army underground tunnel complex. |
| Kornati Islands National Park |
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The Kornati archipelago, Croatia's largest island group and the most indented in the Mediterranean, comprises 89 islands within its national park boundaries, creating a mesmerising labyrinth of stone in the Adriatic Sea. The islands showcase an impressive 330 kilometres of dry stone walls, built entirely by hand to contain grazing sheep, with the majority of landowners residing on nearby Murter Island. Despite its seemingly barren, lunar-like landscape, the archipelago teems with life, hosting 850 animal species, including 185 fish species and 61 coral species, whilst its crystal-clear waters harbour vibrant Posidonia beds and coralline habitats. Visitors can explore the 6th-century Byzantine Fortress of Tureta, dine at traditional konobas (taverns), or marvel at the dramatic 'Crowns' - vertical cliffs rising up to 80 metres above sea level, with the most spectacular found on Klobučar Island. The park is only accessible by boat, offering opportunities for sailing, diving, and hiking, though there are no hotels on the islands themselves. |
| Krka National Park |
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Krka National Park, established in 1985, is a stunning 109-square-kilometre preserve in Croatia's Dalmatia region, featuring seven magnificent waterfalls along the Krka River with a total drop of 242 metres. The park's highlight, Skradinski Buk, is Europe's largest travertine cascade system, comprising 17 waterfalls spanning 164 feet in height. Beyond its natural wonders, the park harbours fascinating historical sites, including ancient Roman ruins at Burnum, where archaeologists discovered a well-preserved amphitheatre in 2002, and a collection of 19th-century watermills that now serve as exhibition spaces demonstrating traditional wheat milling and garment weaving. Whilst swimming at the famous falls was prohibited in 2021, visitors can still take a refreshing dip at Roški Slap. The local cuisine reflects the park's riverside location, with fresh fish dishes being particularly popular, and many restaurants embrace a farm-to-table philosophy, sourcing ingredients directly from local producers. |
| Šibenik ※ |
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Šibenik, the oldest native Croatian city on the Adriatic coast, was first mentioned in 1066 and holds the distinction of being the first city in the world to receive AC public lighting in 1895. This charming coastal gem boasts two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the remarkable Cathedral of St James, built entirely from limestone and marble over a century, featuring 70 unique carved heads on its exterior, and the triangular St Nicholas Fortress. The city is built on a slope, offering spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding islands, with four historic fortresses standing guard over its picturesque harbour. Beyond its architectural marvels, Šibenik was historically significant enough to mint its own currency, the Šibenik Bagatin, during the Venetian Republic. Visitors can explore the labyrinthine old town's stone-paved streets, venture to the nearby Krka National Park with its stunning waterfalls, or sample local delicacies such as peka (meat cooked under an iron bell) and pašticada (traditional beef stew). The city's hydroelectric plant at Skradinski buk began operating just two days after Niagara Falls' facility, making it Europe's first operational hydroelectric power plant. |
Southeastern Croatia
| Trogir ※ |
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Trogir, a picturesque coastal town situated on a small island between mainland Croatia and Čiovo, boasts over 2,300 years of fascinating history, having been founded by Greek colonists in the 3rd century BCE. This UNESCO World Heritage site features remarkably preserved medieval architecture, including the stunning Kamerlengo Fortress and the magnificent Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral of St Lawrence, renowned for its 13th-century portal crafted by Master Radovan. The town's winding cobblestone streets reveal a unique blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architecture, whilst its vibrant waterfront buzzes with cafés serving delectable Dalmatian cuisine, particularly fresh seafood and local specialities like black risotto and pasticada. Notably, beyond its tourist appeal, Trogir maintains its industrial heritage as the site of one of Croatia's major shipbuilding yards. |
| Hvar ※ |
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Hvar, Croatia's longest island stretching 68 km along the Dalmatian coast, holds the distinction of having the most UNESCO Heritage listings of any island globally, with six recognitions including traditional Klapa singing and the Mediterranean diet. The island's rich history dates back to 384 BCE, when Greeks established Stari Grad, Croatia's oldest town, and created the remarkable Stari Grad Plain, which remains the best-preserved example of ancient field parcellation in the Mediterranean. The island boasts 936 nationally recognized monuments and played a significant role in scientific advancement, as Croatian fingerprinting techniques were developed by Hvar native Juan Vučetić in 1891. Visitors can explore the historic Hvar Town with its 16th-century Arsenal and Renaissance cathedral, or savour local delicacies like Gregada (a traditional fish stew) and Peka (meat or octopus cooked under an iron dome). The island's cultural significance is further highlighted by its theatrical heritage, with the first public indoor theatre established in Hvar Town in 1612 and the first Croatian play, 'The Slave Girl', written by local poet Hanibal Lucić in 1530. Notably, Hvar witnessed a people's uprising led by Matij Ivanić in 1510, predating the French Revolution by nearly three centuries. |
| Split ※ |
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Split, Croatia's second-largest city, is a remarkable coastal gem where ancient history seamlessly blends with modern life, centred around the magnificent Diocletian's Palace, a 4th-century Roman complex that now forms the city's living heart. The UNESCO-listed Old Town features a fascinating mix of Greek, Roman, and Venetian architectural influences, with marble walkways weaving through 220 historic buildings. The city's culinary scene is a celebration of Dalmatian flavours, featuring distinctive dishes like black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, pašticada (slow-cooked beef stew), and fresh seafood from the Adriatic. Visitors can explore the vibrant Riva promenade lined with cafés, climb Marjan Hill for panoramic views, or experience local culture at the bustling fish market (Peškarija) and Green Market. The city is also the birthplace of picigin, a unique beach ball game played in shallow water at Bačvice Beach. |
| Korčula |
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Korčula, a stunning Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea spanning 279 km², is often called 'mini Dubrovnik' due to its medieval fortified town with distinctive herringbone-patterned streets designed to protect against strong winds. The island boasts a rich cultural heritage, including the Moreška sword dance tradition from the 16th century and a strong history of stonemasonry that peaked during Venetian rule. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the dense pine forests that earned it the ancient Greek name 'Black Korkyra', alongside its crystal-clear waters, hidden pebble beaches, and rare sandy beaches in Lumbarda. The island is renowned for its wine production, particularly the Grk variety in Lumbarda, and maintains a proud shipbuilding tradition. Whilst the island claims to be Marco Polo's birthplace, adding to its mystique, it's the well-preserved Venetian architecture, ancient Greek artefacts, and the UNESCO-tentative-listed Old Town that truly make Korčula a remarkable destination. |
| Dubrovnik ※ |
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 Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', Dubrovnik is one of the world's best-preserved medieval cities, boasting 168 protected historical buildings within its UNESCO-listed Old Town. The city's impressive 2km-long walls, reaching heights of up to 25 metres, have protected it since the 13th century and now offer spectacular views across terracotta rooftops and the azure sea. Once a powerful trading centre competing with Venice, Dubrovnik dealt with merchants from India, Africa, and Turkey during the Middle Ages. The city's rich heritage is evident in its diverse architecture, including the Gothic-style Rector's Palace, the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery housing one of Europe's oldest functioning pharmacies, and the baroque Church of St Blaise. The nearby island of Lokrum features a fascinating 'dead sea' lake, lush gardens, and a former Benedictine monastery. Dubrovnik's culinary scene reflects its coastal location, with local delicacies including black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, fresh oysters from Mali Ston Bay, and traditional Šporki Makaruli pasta served on St Blaise Day. |
Other attractions
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Mljet
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Poreč, a charming coastal town on Croatia's Istrian peninsula, boasts over 2,000 years of history with remarkable Roman, Byzantine and Venetian influences evident in its architecture. The town's main attraction is the 6th-century UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, renowned for its spectacular golden mosaics. Beyond its historical treasures, Poreč offers vibrant beaches, a bustling marina, and excellent opportunities for cycling and water sports. The local cuisine is a delightful fusion of Mediterranean and Istrian flavours, featuring fresh seafood, homemade pasta, and the region's prized truffles. The town comes alive after sunset with its waterfront bars and clubs, whilst during the day, visitors can explore hidden cafes and boutique shops along the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby Baredine Cave presents an fascinating underground world of stalactites and stalagmites.
Rovinj, a picturesque coastal town on Croatia's Istrian Peninsula, was originally an island until the 18th century when it was connected to the mainland. The town's Old Town is a maze of cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured buildings, where Italian influences blend seamlessly with Croatian culture, as evidenced by locals greeting with 'Ciao' instead of 'Dobar Dan'. The area is renowned for its culinary excellence, particularly its truffles, high-quality olive oil, and locally-produced wines, whilst the Batana Eco-Museum, recognised by UNESCO, preserves the heritage of traditional wooden fishing boats. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Golden Cape Forest Park for hiking and cycling, or venture to the Rovinj Archipelago, comprising 14 stunning islands and islets. The town's artistic spirit thrives along Grisia Street, which is lined with galleries and boutiques showcasing local artisans. For those seeking gastronomic adventures, the local cuisine masterfully blends Venetian influences with Istrian traditions, featuring delectable seafood, handmade pasta, and truffle-infused dishes.
Pula, the largest city in Croatia's Istrian peninsula, is a fascinating blend of ancient history and modern life. The city's crown jewel is the remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, known as the Pula Arena, which is one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas globally and still hosts cultural events and concerts. With a history spanning over 3,000 years, Pula has been shaped by various civilisations, including Romans, Venetians, and Austro-Hungarians, each leaving their distinctive mark on the cityscape. Beyond its historical treasures, Pula boasts pristine beaches along the Adriatic Sea, a vibrant local market built in the Vienna Secession style, and a rich tradition of wine-making, fishing, and shipbuilding. Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby Cape Kamenjak, known for its untouched beaches, aromatic Mediterranean herbs, and occasional dolphin sightings, whilst the Pula Aquarium, housed in an 1886 Austro-Hungarian fortress, stands as Croatia's largest aquarium, showcasing diverse marine life from the Adriatic Sea. The local cuisine is renowned for its Istrian truffle dishes and fresh seafood platters, offering visitors a genuine taste of the region.
Known as the 'Pearl of the Adriatic', Dubrovnik is one of the world's best-preserved medieval cities, boasting 168 protected historical buildings within its UNESCO-listed Old Town. The city's impressive 2km-long walls, reaching heights of up to 25 metres, have protected it since the 13th century and now offer spectacular views across terracotta rooftops and the azure sea. Once a powerful trading centre competing with Venice, Dubrovnik dealt with merchants from India, Africa, and Turkey during the Middle Ages. The city's rich heritage is evident in its diverse architecture, including the Gothic-style Rector's Palace, the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery housing one of Europe's oldest functioning pharmacies, and the baroque Church of St Blaise. The nearby island of Lokrum features a fascinating 'dead sea' lake, lush gardens, and a former Benedictine monastery. Dubrovnik's culinary scene reflects its coastal location, with local delicacies including black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, fresh oysters from Mali Ston Bay, and traditional Šporki Makaruli pasta served on St Blaise Day.
: Local interest
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