As a popular tourist destination, Croatia is a hot spot in Eastern Europe that offers everything you can ever ask for. If you are still undecided about where to go for your next vacation, here are some of the best reasons to convince you to add Croatia to your travel bucket list.

1. An Exciting Selection of Accommodations

The well-developed tourism industry of Croatia has an exciting selection of accommodations for all styles, tastes, and budgets. Visitors can choose to stay in any of the luxury resorts that feature wellness centers. 

There are also historic boutique hotels, private apartments or villas, seaside resorts, family-run guesthouses, and traditional houses adorned in modern style. 

You can even take advantage of the campsites, boats, and luxury sailing yachts, or better yet, visit the unusual places like the treed houses and lighthouses.

With all these options, you won’t be hard-pressed to find the best accommodation that suits you and your needs. 

2. Experience the Thrill of Adventure Travel

The mild climate of the Mediterranean, the Adriatic Sea, and the diverse landscape make the country the ideal destination for all lovers of outdoor activities, attracting thousands of tourists from across the world. 

The lakes, rivers, and sea also give visitors the perfect opportunity to experience yacht sailing, kayaking, rafting, windsurfing, catamaran cruising, diving, canyoning, snorkeling, fishing, and of course, swimming. 

If exploring the water is not your thing, there are also lots of beautiful places for climbing, hiking, cycling, and even zip lining. Croatia is also a top destination for those who want to ski and snowboard during their winter holidays. 

3. A Lovely and Pleasant Climate

Croatia has a varied climate as well as two climatic zones: Mediterranean and Continental. The country’s northern region has a primarily continental climate. Meanwhile, the Mediterranean climate is experienced along the Dalmatian coast with mild winters and sunny hot summers. 

4. Gastronomic Delight 

The cuisine in Croatia is known for being extra sumptuous, making the country a real paradise for all gourmands. This is where you can find all the best things that Mediterranean and international cuisines have to offer. 

Don’t miss the chance to enjoy your delicious dinner with a glass of wine on the side. Croatia is the producer of a varied wine selection known for its unique taste, texture, and high quality. The national drinks of the country include wine, beer, and rakija.

Seafood is also very famous along the coastline. The menu in almost all restaurants in the country features squid, prawns, mussels, octopus, oysters, lobsters, and a huge variety of fish. 

But if there is one thing you should never miss during your visit to Croatia, it would be none other than trying their coffee or kava. Just so you know, every person consumes a maximum of 11.24 pounds or 5 kg of coffee annually. This places Croatians in the 19^th place as the largest coffee drinkers in the whole world. 

5. Interesting History

The territory of Croatia has already been inhabited by humans as far back as the Paleolithic age. The country also serves as the home to ten UNESCO heritage sites. No matter where you go, every nook and corner of Croatia has breathed history. You can also find and explore ancient cities, medieval fortresses, and majestic castles. 

The country was once under the rule of the Roman Empire, Greek, Hungary, and Austria. Traces of these can be seen in most of the glorious buildings of the country, serving as a testament to its history that spans more than 2,000 years.

This is why it is no surprise that Croatia attracts travelers across the world interested in history, architecture, and culture. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to see the ancient monuments in Dubrovnik, one of the world’s most gorgeous stone-built cities. 

Be sure to check out the 1700 years old Split, the old Venetian town of Rovinj, the chic capital city of Zagreb, the most attractive island city of Trogir, and the charming city of Pula. 

6. A Diverse Landscape

The one-of-a-kind location of Croatia is the very reason behind the extremely diverse landscape of the country. You will surely find yourself in awe of the verdant forests, lush green hills, sparkling rivers, expansive vineyards, flowing lakes, and majestic waterfalls. 

The Dinaric Alps run through the entire country from north to south. Dinara standing at 1831 meters is the tallest mountain peak in the country. The Dalmatian coast and most of the offshore islands of the country are hilly, steep, and rocky by nature. 

Croatia is also blessed with one of Europe’s most astonishing coastlines. There are rocky, pebbly, and sandy beaches that stretch along the Dalmatian coast. You can surely find an ideal spot to swim in the Adriatic Sea’s crystal clear water and sunbathe on the shore afterward. 

The clear water even reaches a maximum of 56 meters in some of the sea’s southern parts. the country also enjoys approximately 2,800 hours of sunshine annually, making the coastline of Croatia one of the sunniest in the whole European continent.

Blue Flag awards have also been given to a total of 80 beaches in the country. The label is given to the world’s beach beaches for their high safety standard, sustainability, and quality. Brac Island’s Zlatni Rat is a stunning sandy beach with a pine forest bordering it and is dubbed as the best recognized in the country. The beach also has one of a kind phenomenon as its shape changes constantly according to the direction of the wind and the waves. 

The archipelago of Croatia is also the biggest in the Adriatic Sea. The largest inhabited islands out of its 1185 islands are Hvar, Brac, Korcula, and Krk. 

Travelers of all types can look forward to an exciting Croatian adventure that is simply like no other!

The post 6 Best Reasons to Visit Croatia Soon appeared first on Travel RS.

Despite its current size of over 115 miles, it managed to remain an exceptionally well-organized attraction. Wooden walkways will take you near the foaming cataracts while a fleet of tourist trains and electric boats ferry visitors to different parts of the park.

However, with its location well inland from the Croatian coast, Plitvice isn’t something you can just visit quickly during beach trips. It’s highly recommended to plan your visit. But the moment you see the spellbinding beauty of the lake, you’ll be happy that you went the extra mile. 

Don’t even try visiting for just a few hours, either. You won’t be able to see its best parts in just an hour or two. A full-day tour is a must to enjoy the unique ambiance of the park. You can also choose from a variety of accommodation in the nearby villages if you wish to stay overnight. 

Things to Do 

Almost everything you see in Plitvice Lakes National Park is spectacular so you can look forward to having unforgettable moments you can bring back home with you no matter how short or long your visit is. 

The park has a couple of entrances, with Entrance 1 located at the system’s northern end while Entrance 2 is two miles to the south. The two entrances have massive car parks enshrouded by forests, cafes, and cash machines. 

If your time is a bit limited, you might want to head over to Entrance 2 since this is directly linked to the internal network of electric boats and bus trains of the park. If you plan to stay for the day, you can kick off your exploration at Entrance 1 and allow yourself to bask in the beauty of the place at leisure. 

You can find the concentration of the lakes and burbling and rushing falls Galovac, Gradinsko, and Okrugljak in the center of the system that you can access from Entrance 2 via boardwalk. The largest and most stunning single waterfall of the park is Veliki Slap or Grand Fall which sprays on nearby visitors and is located at the park’s northern end.

If you have more energy and time to spare, Lake Prošćansko at the southern end of the park is the biggest and most serene of the lakes. Its calm waterside trails stretch away from the areas of the park where day trippers often flock. 

One of the most fun activities, if you venture this far inland, is to go for a wild swim in the rivers of Croatia. While swimming is prohibited in Plitvice Lakes National Park itself, you will find a famous riverside beach at Slunj just 18 miles north with a grass-covered waterside meadow and drinks sold at a kiosk. 

The park has eight designated walking routes, four each from the two entrances. The routes also known as programs or tours differ in distance and length. The shortest one takes about 2 hours while the longest one comes in at 8 hours. 

When to Visit 

Spring to September is the most ideal time to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. This is the time of the year when the park shines the most under the sun with blossoming vegetation and the ever-changing colors of the lake water shades. 

Activities reach their peak from July to August when tourists are crowded in areas that are within an hour or two of walking from the two main entrances. Taking photos might also be a serious ordeal, especially if you want to make sure that your shots won’t be filled with strangers. 

If you wish to be up close and personal with nature, you might want to stay longer and then head over to the more distant paths of the park. Prepare for high temperatures during June and August and make sure you have lots of water and the correct headgear with you. 

The combination of evergreen and deciduous trees in the park creates a gorgeous backdrop of gold and greens of autumn. The colors become more subdued when winter comes. However, the cold spells also turn the park into a sparkling fairy tale landscape of trees covered in frost and frozen waterfalls. 

Camping

The Plitvice area is one of Croatia’s most unspoiled parts characterized by the picturesque woodland and rolling meadows, making it a joy to go camping here. Several sites are within walking distance of entrances to the camp. Just make sure you have your transport and be patient enough while waiting for the rare buses to enjoy it to the fullest. 

Camping Plitvice is the nearest one just 2.5 miles north of Entrance 1. This is an organized place with a children’s playground, café restaurant, and self-catering bungalows that cover the hillside in a semicircle. 

Further north at 6 miles, the Plitvice Holiday Resort is equipped with shaded tent pitches, teepees, tree houses lodged amidst towering pines, and lakeside bungalows. 

B&Bs and Hotels 

The cluster of hotels run by the authorities of the national park has a convenient location right next to Entrance 2. While these aren’t necessarily luxurious, they boast a relaxing feel reminiscent of resorts. Comfort-wise, the best choice is Hotel Jezero. But if you have always wanted to stay in a masterpiece of socialist0era modernism, the 1958-vintage two-star Hotel Plitvice is worth checking out. 

The region’s selection of family-run accommodations that range from modern villas fitted with apartments to farmhouse stays offers the perfect chance to relax amid rustic surroundings. If you will come via public transport, you might want to opt for a place within a short distance of park entrances and bus stops. 

One place you can consider is Rastovača village located close to Entrance 1. Just 10 minutes away from Entrance 1 is House Marko Špehar offering cozy and neat studio apartments and double rooms complete with manicured gardens filled with mood-inducing flowerbeds. 

The post Let Yourself Get Lost in the Scenic Plitvice Lakes National Park appeared first on Travel RS.

The moment you set foot outside, you will also find yourself strolling through a city that abounds with a history that spans thousands of years. Almost every brick in the area has its own story and it’s easy to get lost amidst the memories of the past.

Many of the most popular sights and attractions in Zagreb are also within walking distance, which means you can easily cover and visit several destinations in just a day. 

The following are some of the top destinations you shouldn’t miss during your visit to this Croatian city:

1. Lotrščak Tower

Are you a big fan of panoramic views seen from the top? One of the most remarkable spots in Zagreb is none other than the Lotrščak Tower. The tower is located on top of the funicular found in the city’s old town area. 

The tower was once part of the fortifications of the city completed in 1266. It was built to defend the city’s southern entrance. The good news is that the entrance fee to Lotrščak Tower is very affordable; making it a perfect choice even if you are on a budget. 

Once you get inside, you just need to climb several staircases between the floors. Every floor offers different views outside the windows. There are also information boards that tell guests what they can expect to see on every floor written in both English and Croatian. 

At the top is the viewing platform that offers an amazing viewpoint, and from there, you will be able to see the lower and upper towns. Other sightseeing gems are also visible from there, such as the Zagreb Cathedral, Octagon, and St. Mark’s Church. 

Clear sunny days are often the perfect time to visit and climb Lotrščak Tower and take in the views in all their glory. 

2. Grič Tunnel

Grič Tunnel is the pedestrian tunnel found below the Grič neighborhood. This tunnel complex features a tunnel hall that two long passageways connect from west to east with entrances on Stjepan Radić Street and Mesnička Street. Four passageways also extend to the south. 

The tunnel was constructed during the Second World War to serve as a promenade and a bomb shelter. When the war ended, the tunnel soon became redundant, falling into disrepair not long after. 

When the 1990s came, the tunnel also served as the home to Croatia’s first raves and soon became a shelter during the war of independence in the country. The tunnel was officially opened in 2016 as a tourist attraction for the public. It also serves as the host of cultural events. 

Walking through the tunnel is already a fascinating experience itself. But while it’s great to find the entrances to the tunnel, you might have a hard time searching for the four passageways. The route comes in handy if you need a shortcut and saves you from the need to climb the hill. 

The tunnel is open from 9 in the morning to 9 in the evening daily, making it worth exploring if you got time. During the holidays, the tunnels also have a display of Christmas Lights. 

3. Museum of Broken Relationships

Where do broken hearts go? Perhaps they go to the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb. This quirky museum is located near St. Mark’s Church, with a baroque palace serving as its home. 

The museum itself showcases a collection of personal items from past lovers complete with stories of how their relationships were broken. 

Interesting might be an understatement to describe this museum that boasts of marvelous stories, although most of them are rather tragic. With a reasonable entrance fee, you shouldn’t miss the chance to check out this one-of-a-kind museum. 

4. Museum of Hangovers

What happens after breakups? Most people drink, and when they drink too much, they suffer from a hangover the next day! The Museum of Hangovers is yet another peculiar museum in this Croatian city.

The museum is dedicated to funny stories of hangovers and drinking. It even features games, simulators, and props. You can even order a beer that you can sip and drink as you explore the museum, which happens to be the highlight for most visitors. 

5. Zagreb Cathedral

Zagreb Cathedral is a wonderful building to behold. It is a Roman Catholic cathedral, and also happens to be Croatia’s second tallest building, with its spire reaching a height of 108 meters. The cathedral features a gothic design and two lovely spires. It was constructed during the mid-13^th century and underwent major renovations between the years 1880 and 1906. 

Zagreb Cathedral boasts a long and interesting history, one of which was when the Mongols destroyed it and when the Ottomans added the fortifications. The cathedral is worthy to visit thanks to the grand nature and overall architecture of the building. 

6. St. Mark’s Church

The iconic St. Mark’s Church is no doubt one of Zagreb’s most recognizable buildings and is also among the oldest in the entire city. Its history can be traced back to the 13^th century although it underwent radical reconstruction during the 14^th century. 

The church was constructed in the late gothic architectural style with several Romanesque features. The colorful roof tiles are the main highlight of the church, representing the coats of arms of Zagreb city, Slavonia, Dalmatia, and the Triune Kingdom of Croatia. 

7. Zagreb City Museum

Visiting the Zagreb City Museum is a great educational activity you wouldn’t want to miss. The museum covers different topics about the history of the city. It is located in the area of the older upper town not too far from St. Mark’s Church. You would surely never notice the time passing by as you peruse the exhibits that are showcased in chronological order around the venue. 

The next time you feel like you need a quick break, make sure you add Zagreb, Croatia to your list! 

The post Top 7 Destinations in Zagreb appeared first on Travel RS.

Pelješac is famous for its mussels and oysters that are no doubt the best ones you can find in the entire Croatian region. Originally the northern outpost of Ragusa Republic, the presentd-day Dubrovnik, Pelješac still serves as the home to Walls of Ston, a one of a kind historic attraction and is the longest fortification in Europe.

If you have plans to visit anytime soon, here are some activities you shouldn’t miss once you set foot in this mystic place. 

1. Go on a Trek in Sveti ilija 

Sveti Ilija is the peninsula’s highest point located just northwest of Orebić and there are a few starting points for trekking it. Probably the easiest and simplest route you can try starts from the abandoned village of Gornja Nakovana, a short drive from Viganj. There is a marked trail from there that takes you little by little to the 961-meter peak, with the hike taking 2 hours. 

Take note that the ascent is a rocky one so wear strong shoes or boots. Drink lots of water and don’t set off during a hot summer afternoon. These slopes also serve as a habitat to horn-nosed vipers, though, so wear your long trousers to stay on the safe side. 

Don’t worry because all of these exertion and preparation will reward you with the chance to see Dalmatia in all its glory spread out before you. With the right conditions, this scenic view can even stretch out as far as Montenegro.

Don’t miss the next article either: Let Yourself Get Lost in the Scenic Plitvice Lakes National Park

2. Visit the Legendary Winery 

It was in 1996 when Miljenko ‘Mike’ Grgich, the legendary winemaker who cemented his international reputation in California, opened Grgić vina at Trstenik. Grgich is the one who created Chateau Montelena, that famous Chardonnay that beat its popular French competitors in 1976 during Judgment of Paris. He decided to go back to his homeland to introduce the contemporary techniques of winemaking to Pelješac peninsula’s steep slopes.

It resulted to his acclaimed Plavac Mali with its deep red color with flavors that were harmonized for more than 2 years, including the ageing for 15 months in the special France-imported oak barrels. 

Sold for a very affordable price at the best restaurants in Dubrovnik, it is best and more affordable to sample this high quality tipple at Grgich winery on ordinary days of the week. 

3. Fill Your Tummy at Mali Ston

Vila Koruna is among the topnotch dining spots in the peninsula with a menu divided based on the provision of a complete experience for local dining, from apéritif to coffee with some courses in between. A good choice here is to start with Dalmatian cheese and prosciutto followed by cream of asparagus soup, and move on to grilled rump steak with butter-tossed boiled vegetables. 

Dessert is also available, like the strudel of the day or Ston tart. There is also an oyster menu featuring fresh samples to begin with, cream of oyster soup, oysters in seaweed, oysters grâtinées, slow-roasted oysters and more. 

If all these dishes left you too full, you can also enjoy sipping a glass of quality wine. Finally, finish off the day resting in your four-star room on the site with a stunning view of the sea. 

4. Go Windsurfing in Viganj 

Viganj is cozily nestled on Pelješac’s southwest coast just halfway along the narrow Korčula channel, putting it right at the vortex of the wind tunnel. This is where the acclaimed summer Maestral blows two times harder than anywhere else along Croatian Adriatic.

It was during the 1980s when these parts saw the likes of windsurfing, which also happened around the same era when the sport took off in Europe. From then on, schools and clubs started opening in Viganj’s coastal village as well as campsites, bars and shops catering to those surfer flocking to the area during the months of summer.

Some of the long established schools in the area are Water Donkey and Liberan. The month of July is considered as the best month to go surfing. The light south-easterly breeze that blows in the morning aids the beginners while experienced surfers can fight against the stronger winds during early afternoon and beyond. 

5. Drop By at Ston to Slurp on Oysters 

It was in the bay of Mali Ston where the Romans cultivated oysters for the first time. Farms were established during the 1980s to form a flourishing industry that remained to this day. A luxurious delicacy in Parisian restaurants, you can buy quality oysters in the area by the roadside just like how you buy affordable seasonal produce.

You can devour oysters in a more formal environment like Bakus, the local dining spot right in Ston’s historic center. Sold at only a little bit over €1 per pop, the sublime oysters in the area can be enjoyed breaded, as a starter, in oyster soup or as part of the must-try shellfish platter. 

6. Go Diving in Duba and Divna

On Pelješac’s less-traveled north coast, a good distance away from the wineries of Trstenik and windsurfing spots of Viganj, the beaches here are not only emptier but are also more pristine. Just a quick drive from Trpanj, you will find the idyllic Divna. Some lucky souls have homes in the area that overlook the gorgeous smooth-pebble seafront and bay. Since you won’t find restaurants or bars here, make sure you have your refreshments and snacks with you. 

A bit further along, you will discover Duba or Duba Pelješka is equally alluring with its crystal clear sea, white pebbles, and some bobbing boats. Duba has several exceptional diving opportunities for divers of all abilities and experience. Bring your prescription diving mask with you, to be able to enjoy the underwater world to the fullest. At the back of the beach is a modest fishing community that gets on its everyday business. Some locals will be very happy to rent their apartments close to or on the waterfront. 

These are just some of the many activities that you must try yourself if you ever find yourself wandering the Pelješac peninsula.

Top 7 Destinations in Zagreb

No matter where you go in Zagreb, Croatia, you will instantly feel the ambiance of a thriving city. Just like other cities in the world, Zagreb perfectly combines the old with the new. There is something unique and special about its streets and buildings, as well as its parks and squares.

The post Special Activities to Try in Pelješac appeared first on Travel RS.