15 Reasons Croatia Should Be Your Next Big Trip
If you go on one trip in 2017, this should be it.
Looking for a European destination that's a little more unexpected? Obsessed with food and wine? Love history? If you answered yes to any of these, you'll want to move Croatia to the top of your must-see list immediately. Unlike other European destinations like England, Italy and France, you won't feel the pressure of missing out on major museums and monuments if you'd rather spend your time taking in the sun and jaw-dropping views along the Adriatic coast. Here, all the best things to do and see in Croatia–from a wine country tour to the country's best beaches.
Walk Dubrovnik's Old Town Walls
Game Of Thrones fans will recognize this ancient walled city as the real-life version of Kings Landing, but even if you're not a fan of the HBO show you'll appreciate the beauty of the terracotta rooftops and sparkling blue waters of the Adriatic Sea from up above.
Drink Croatian Wine
Even though wine has been made in Croatia for centuries, it's widely unknown outside of the country–and we're not sure why, since it's absolutely delicious. Visit Tomić Winery in the town of Jelsa for a tasting or head to D'vino Wine Bar in Dubrovnik to chat with their knowledgeable bartenders about the different varieties of Croatian wine, from powerful reds like Plavac Mali to fruity whites like Pošip.
Try Dalmatian Cuisine
Rent a Villa
There are plenty of gorgeous hotels in Croatia, but if you're looking for a little more space and privacy, consider renting a villa through Airbnb—like a stunning five-bedroom home that sleeps 10. There are hundreds to choose from along the coast for all kinds of vacations, destination weddings and even bachelorette parties (just be sure to select the "suitable for events" filter when you book).
Watch the Sunset
You don't have to fly all the way to Eastern Europe to find a pretty sunset, but there's something magical about watching the sky change from flaming orange to the prettiest shade of purple from the pool of your hilltop villa.
Swim in a Hidden Cove
Ready to go off the grid? Spend a day island-hopping along the Pakleni Islands to discover dozens of secluded beaches that will have you feel like you're sunbathing a world away from home.
Drink in a Historical Monument
Waiters at Lvxor Café in Split will serve you a glass of wine right on the steps of Diocletian's Palace, a 4th-century Roman palace. If you find yourself in Dubrovnik, be sure to grab a sundowner at one of the two bars built right into the walls of the old town. Sure, it's a little touristy but how often do you get to sip a drink inside a historical monument at home?
Rent a Scooter
This summer, Dubrovnik is introducing an electric scooter sharing program so that locals and tourists alike can access less-crowded beaches along the coast without having to rent a car.
Walk Along Split's Waterfront
Instead of posting up at a bar for happy hour, pop open a local craft beer and enjoy it outdoors while you walk along the historic waterfront promenade in Split (it is Europe after all).
Jump Off a Yacht Into the Adriatic
While you can book a day cruise or a water taxi in Hvar Town to take you out to explore the Pakleni Islands, getting to jump off the bow of your own private yacht into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea is totally worth the splurge–especially if you're traveling with a big group.
Explore Krka National Park
If you don't have enough time to make it inland to Plitvice Lakes, the waterfalls at Krka National Park are just a one-hour drive outside of Split and are equally as stunning. Plus you'll get to take in the view of Visovac Monastery located in the middle of a lake.
Head North to Istria
Most travelers spend all of their time in Dalmatia on Croatia's southern coast, but the Istria region in the north has just as many beautiful waterfront villages, amazing wine and seafood and historic sites to take in.
See The Waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes National Park is made up of 16 lakes that cascade into each other forming some of the most beautiful waterfalls you'll see in your life.
Head Inland to Zagreb
It's tempting to spend your entire vacation on the coast of Croatia, but the growing craft beer scene, colorful farmers markets and elaborate Baroque architecture you'll find in Zagreb make it worth setting aside a few days to explore Croatia's capital city.
Sunbathe on Zlatni Rat Beach
While most of Croatia's coastline can be quite rocky, the soft sand on Zlatni Rat Beach on the island of Brač juts out into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic making it one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Lyndsey Matthews is the Destination News Editor for AFAR; previously she was a Lifestyle Editor across all of Hearst Digital Media's brands, and a digital editor at Martha Stewart Weddings and Travel + Leisure.
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