Croatia
Dazzling coastlines
There’s no hiding it — Croatia’s spectacular coastline is one of the best in the world. The water dazzles in shades of azure blue and emerald green, pebbly beaches provide a sharp contrast to the silky water, and islands stretch out into the sea waiting to be explored. It’s a beach holiday that dreams are made of.
But there’s much more to Croatia than that. Its strategic location between the rest of the Balkans and the central Europe of Italy has meant Croatia has often been in the crossfire of battle, leaving it both scarred and uplifted by its past invaders. You’ll see Roman ruins, Slavic churches and huge Venetian palaces all mixed in together.
What hasn’t changed is the welcome from the locals — while some beach destinations are getting over-crowded, much of Croatia is delightfully under-visited, particularly on its interior of rolling farmland and limestone mountains.
8 days
West Balkans in a week
Croatia, Montenegro and Albania highlights
8 days
Istria’s coastlines and hilltop villages
Explore Istria’s walking trails for orchids and architecture
11 days
Mountain walks in Montenegro
Exploring Montenegro’s national parks
7 days
Montenegro Loop
Montenegro’s best bits in a week
8 days
West Balkans wine and food
A culinary adventure through the Balkans
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Dubrovnik
The jewel in Croatia’s crown, Dubrovnik might just be one of the most picturesque cities in the world... -
Rovinj
Rovinj’s egg-shaped peninsula houses it’s charming old town, where you can wander through cobbled streets, cosy squares and tasty restaurants... -
Lovran
Little-known to foreign tourists, Lovran is actually a town with a long history of tourism... -
Konavle Valley
Easily accessible from Dubrovnik, Konavle Valley is home to 33 villages and offers hiking, biking and horse-riding trails... -
Zagreb
Croatia’s gritty capital mixes concrete slabs with old town glory, but its cafe culture is the main draw... -
Istria’s hilltop villages
Many visitors to Istria confine themselves to the coastlines of Pula and Rovinj, but head inland to the greenery of its hilltop villages for a hidden treat... -
Pula
The busy seaside town of Pula is best-known for its ancient Roman architecture, such as the Arch of the Sergii which dates back to 27BC...
Where to go in Croatia
Our recommended places
Dubrovnik
The jewel in Croatia’s crown, Dubrovnik might just be one of the most picturesque cities in the world. Explore the city’s ancient city walls and historic building, head up the hills to Mount Srd and dip your toes in the Adriatic Sea.
Rovinj
Rovinj’s egg-shaped peninsula houses it’s charming old town, where you can wander through cobbled streets, cosy squares and tasty restaurants.
Lovran
Little-known to foreign tourists, Lovran is actually a town with a long history of tourism. Found on the slopes of the Ucka mountain, it’s worth visiting for the courtyards of the old town, proximity to national parks and excellent seafront.
Konavle Valley
Easily accessible from Dubrovnik, Konavle Valley is home to 33 villages and offers hiking, biking and horse-riding trails. However, it is the Valley’s growing wine scene that is attracting visitors, who come to sample Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon with the region’s excellent food scene.
Zagreb
Croatia’s gritty capital mixes concrete slabs with old town glory, but its cafe culture is the main draw. Whether you choose coffee or beer, grab a seat and spend some time people-watching.
Istria’s hilltop villages
Many visitors to Istria confine themselves to the coastlines of Pula and Rovinj, but head inland to the greenery of its hilltop villages for a hidden treat. Try the walled town of Grožnjan for art and music, Motovun for its 13th-century bell tower and Livade for black and white truffles.
Pula
The busy seaside town of Pula is best-known for its ancient Roman architecture, such as the Arch of the Sergii which dates back to 27BC. However, it’s most famous relic the 1st-century amphitheatre which dominates the city centre. Come in summer to see festivals and concerts in its spectacular setting.
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