
HOW TO DO CROATIA
Croatia’s only 25 years old and about the size of Scotland. Kinda unfair then that it's packing so much heat. It's got glittering seas, guaranteed sunshine, massive waterfalls and a shitload of history. But how do you choose between its many, many charms?
Here’s LuckyTrip’s guide for How To Do Croatia...
Here’s LuckyTrip’s guide for How To Do Croatia...
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is the heavy-hitter. Round every corner there’s another celeb ancient fortress (as seen on Game of Thrones), but it’s also packing nightlife, great restaurants and easy access to the beach.
Top Tip: avoid going in the height of summer to miss the crowds.
Top Tip: avoid going in the height of summer to miss the crowds.
Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia
Away from the coast, Croatia’s capital has had time to develop its cultural side. More like the rest of Eastern Europe, it’s got bohemian cafes and artsy drinking squats aplenty.
Top Tip: the Plitvice Lakes (real life Avatar-land) are 2 hours away.
Top Tip: the Plitvice Lakes (real life Avatar-land) are 2 hours away.
Zadar
Zadar, Croatia
Pancaked in WW2, Zadar is ancient ruins, fifties buildings and modern art installations all smushed up together. It’s also within spitting distance of Krka Waterfalls and Kornati National Park.
Top Tip: artist Nikola Bašić (anything BUT basic) hooked Zadar up with a solar powered disco floor and sea organ steps.
Top Tip: artist Nikola Bašić (anything BUT basic) hooked Zadar up with a solar powered disco floor and sea organ steps.
Split
Split, Croatia
If you like your history a little lived in, Split’s your one. The incredible Diocletian's Palace is still the buzzy centre of Split, with shops, restaurants and a market in its cellar.
Top Tip: don’t miss the boat tours to the Blue Cave and Five Islands.
Top Tip: don’t miss the boat tours to the Blue Cave and Five Islands.
Hvar
Hvar, Croatia
Hvar’s got a rep as a luxe party town, thanks to visits from Beyonce, George Clooney and Prince Hazza. Those guys must know a thing or two, cos beautiful Hvar’s got your back whether you’re after all-night-raves or a calming dip in the sea.
Top Tip: Pakleni Islands are a sea-taxi away, and some of the best in The Adriatic - clothes are optional.
Top Tip: Pakleni Islands are a sea-taxi away, and some of the best in The Adriatic - clothes are optional.
Pula
Pula, Croatia
So far north it’s almost Italy, you can see the influence on Pula’s architecture and food. There’s Roman stadiums, olive groves and Medieval Istria all within easy reach.
Top Tip: Brijuni National Park is a splatter of islands, including the fish shaped one your mum sends you from Pinterest every summer.
Top Tip: Brijuni National Park is a splatter of islands, including the fish shaped one your mum sends you from Pinterest every summer.
Osijek
Osijek, Croatia
Osijek’s nestled into the crease between Hungary, Serbia and Bosnia Herzegovina (risky). The Hungarian vibes come through, with grand buildings and meaty treats.
Top Tip: most of the good stuff can be found by walking along the Drava River.
Top Tip: most of the good stuff can be found by walking along the Drava River.
Šibenik
Sibenik, Croatia
Little but mighty, Šibenik’s less busy than the rest of Croatia, but with all the same twinkly charms. It’s got fortresses, hidden islands and a straight road to Krka: land of waterfalls. Yes plz.
Top Tip: drive over the drawbridge to stunning Murter Island.
Top Tip: drive over the drawbridge to stunning Murter Island.