Book that vacation now: this is where you want to go in beautiful Croatia
Forget all those distant travels, Europe is where you want to go. And of course, it sounds much more exotic when you go to Mexico, Bali or the Philippines but there are many destinations in Europe that are just as beautiful. I am also guilty of this, often there is a little voice in my head that tells me that the further away it is, the more special it is. That makes no sense at all. And I am going to prove that to you now by highlighting the very best, most beautiful, and most fun spots in Croatia. Because wow, this country is beautiful. It's not completely undiscovered anymore, but luckily those masses of tourists are not there yet. There was a holiday to this country already on your planning or bucket list? Check out the ultimate tips here.
The places you want to go
Dalmatia: One of the most famous regions in Croatia, located in the south. Below are the most fun destinations; the easiest is to fly to Dubrovnik or Split. Renting a car is really a must, no matter where you go in Croatia. You can do everything by taxi or public transport, but it will take much more time (and money).
Hvar: An island in the south of Croatia, not far from the coast. Easily done with a boat trip. The capital, Hvar Town, is a good base. The water here is super beautiful clear blue, it has beautiful nature, and the harbor is also picturesque. You might know Hvar as the ‘party island’, and yes, it is that too. But don't be afraid of being overwhelmed by drunken English tourists. If you actually want that, you can find it here too.
Pakleni Islands: And if you are in Hvar, definitely take a trip to the Pakleni Islands. You can take a water taxi from Hvar (which is incredibly cheap; you can find them from just a few euros). They are small, green islands with white beaches. You understand: a day of sunbathing here is an excellent plan.
Dubrovnik: This is the most popular city in the country, the easiest to fly to, and also a nice city to start your vacation. Especially the old town is very beautiful to walk through. Oh yes, are you a Game of Thrones fan; seize the opportunity and visit various filming locations. Dragons not included, you understand.
Brac: Also an island located above Hvar. You will also find beautiful beaches here, and it is a bit more mountainous than Hvar; so if you enjoy hiking, this is a good place for you. If you absolutely do not want to encounter partygoers, this is also a good spot. The most fun is to rent a convertible and explore the island, stopping at the beaches for a sunset session, of course.
Istria: The other well-known region where most holidaymakers go. The best flights are to Pula or Rijeka.
Rovinj: Wonderful to wander through the narrow alleys here and have a drink or a bite to eat here and there. A recommendation is to definitely view the city from the water, as it gives a really beautiful view. Stay here for a day or two and then travel up to Porec.
Porec: Because this is also a village you don't want to miss in Istria. Porec is a fairly well-known city in Croatia due to its beautiful history and old buildings, of which the Euphrasius Basilica is the most famous. If you are with a (rental) car, definitely go to the Baredine Cave (for example, if the weather is not so nice). You go about sixty meters underground, and that is an experience in itself, but it is also very beautiful.
Pula: As I said, this is convenient to fly to, and it is also the largest city in Istria. Here you can also shop well, but also wander through the narrow alleys. The amphitheater is the most famous eye-catcher here. Also, definitely check when the Pula Film Festival takes place in the summer, as it is transformed into the largest open-air cinema in the world, so fun. There is also a light show at the shipyard every evening. In case you didn't notice; it is definitely a romantic city.
Krka National Park: This park is a bit off many routes, but oh boy, it is definitely worth it. So beautiful. Waterfalls, lots of greenery, and you can swim in many places. Really a recommendation for a day trip, and take your camera: Instagram approved for sure.
Zadar: Nice port city, and from here the trip to Krka National Park is doable, as it is only about an hour apart. The town itself is very nice and especially a good base if you want to see more nature in Croatia. There are also several islands near Zadar that you can visit by boat.
Plitvice National Park: Another national park that is easily visited from Zadar. Probably the most famous park in the whole country, so expect definitely more tourists here than at Krka. But those tourists are justified; it is really beautiful here. The highest waterfall is 78 meters, quite high. Swimming here is of course possible, and also pay attention to the many birds and butterflies you encounter.
Hotspots in Croatia
(Dubrovnik)
Yes, I would like to live here: what a beautiful location. They have two panoramic terraces, with a stunning view over the water and the old Dubrovnik in the evening. And fine dining, that too. More expensive than many restaurants, but definitely worth it for a romantic night out.
Tavern Ankora
(Dubrovnik)
Just outside the center of Dubrovnik, about ten kilometers further, you will find this hotspot. Exceptionally fresh seafood, friendly staff, and you are almost right on the water. Great for lunch if you take a day trip outside Dubrovnik. That view over the clear water never gets boring.
(Dubrovnik)
The emphasis at many restaurants is on seafood, but for Asian food, curry, noodles, sushi, and more, you are in the right place here. And yes, it is also incredibly delicious. The New York Times and Vogue are already fans (so not completely undiscovered, this hotspot...) and well, then we naturally follow.
Lola Bar
(Hvar Town)
Fighting for a spot here or trying to reserve, those are the options. Because yes, it is always busy here. They serve street food, so a bit of shared dining (unless you keep everything to yourself, of course). Also open all day (from nine in the morning until two at night), but the most fun is to go here for dinner. Or for an end-of-the-afternoon drink; that is definitely a regular thing for me on vacation.
(Hvar Town)
Hidden in a tiny alley, so prepare for a bit of a search. But it is worth it, trust me. Whether you are going for breakfast, lunch, or dinner here; everything is delicious. If you are not a fish lover, you are also in the right place, as they have many vegetarian options.
(Hvar Town)
A nice terrace where you can enjoy live music with a drink. The atmosphere here is always great, especially in the evening. They are open from early in the morning, so you can also stop by during the day for a coffee, but you should definitely return in the evening.
Hula Hula Beach Bar
(Hvar Town)
This hotspot in Hvar opens at eight in the morning, and you actually want to be there then, only to leave again around eleven when it closes. Sunbed on the beach, good food, delicious beers; enjoy.
Me & Mrs. Jones
(Jelsa, Hvar)
Mediterranean restaurant and wine bar, a combination that suits me well. The emphasis here is on seafood (how else would you want it when you are by the coast — you can't get it fresher), but with a surprising twist here and there. The location is also a big plus; you look out over the old center of Jelsa.
Vintage Wine Bar
(Hvar Town)
Yes, wine lovers gather; this is the place you need to be. Perhaps in all of Croatia. It truly lives up to its name, as the interior has a vintage feel, and both inside and outside, it's really nice to sit here. You want to taste all the wines. It makes me greedy.
Ulixes
(Porec)
When it comes to instagrammable hotspots, Porec might not be the best choice, but you can absolutely enjoy good food here. For example, at this spot. Generous portions, affordable, and very yummy. They have an indoor terrace (so nice), but even just inside, it has a cozy atmosphere. Very different from what it would be in the Netherlands; it really gives you a vacation feeling here.
Peterokutna Kula
(Porec)
Those spots are indeed not instagrammable, as I mentioned, but the food here definitely is: what little works of art. The restaurant is located in a tower built in 1447, and yes, that is quite old and special. You can sit both inside and outside, and if you love truffles: you’re in for a treat. They have it in many dishes here.
(Rovinj)
You should pamper yourself when you're on vacation, right? Well, you can do that here. From breakfast to dessert and everything in between. If you really don’t want to leave, you can stay overnight; there’s also a hotel. You’re by the water, and especially the lunch is really top-notch here.
(Rovinj)
But if you’re really looking for a place to sleep, then you want to do that here. Wow, those apartments here are so beautiful. And the name of the restaurant, Wine Vault, is also a name close to my heart. The cuisine here is European and true fine dining with good wine (it has to be with such a name). The interior is very beautiful, so sitting inside is also no punishment. Sitting outside isn’t bad either.
