Croatia – What is Worth Seeing?

When is the Best Time to Visit Croatia?

It all depends on how you like to relax. If you're looking for places not overcrowded with tourists and prefer temperatures below 20°C, you should definitely visit Croatia outside the peak season, from October to April. However, if you crave a typical holiday atmosphere, bustling streets, hot days, and swimming in the Adriatic, plan your trip between May and September. It's worth noting that regardless of the time of year, Croatia offers much to both adventure-seeking tourists and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

How to Get to Croatia?

You can fly to Croatia, and it is certainly the more convenient option. Available connections make it easy and quick to reach places like Zadar, Split, or Dubrovnik. Flight prices vary widely, ranging from a few hundred to over 2000 PLN, so it's worth looking for promotions and browsing sites that offer cheap flights. Choosing a plane as a means of transport means a shorter and more pleasant journey, but also a higher expense. 

Traveling by car is slightly different. Here, we have two main routes: through the Czech Republic and Austria or through Slovakia and Hungary. The first route involves comfortable highways and allows easy access to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, and from there to Zadar, Split, or Dubrovnik – or to Istria, a peninsula in the northern part of the country. The alternative route through Hungary is optimal for residents of southern Poland.

An undeniable advantage of such a trip is independence and cost savings, assuming all passengers contribute to fuel costs. Travel time is relatively short, depending on where you're starting from, it can take between 10 to 18 hours. Before traveling by car, be sure to check foreign highway tolls and get the necessary e-vignettes.

What is Worth Seeing in Croatia?

It's impossible to list all Croatian attractions and recommended places in one article, so we'll focus on a few subjective recommendations. 

• Dubrovnik, probably the most popular city in Croatia, attracts many tourists from around the world each year. It is famous for its distinctive architecture dating back to the 7th century AD, defensive walls, historic streets, and a UNESCO-listed old town. The red brick beautifully contrasts with the azure water. The town's atmosphere charmed the creators of Game of Thrones, who decided to film many scenes from Westeros there.
• Split – an absolute gem of Dalmatia and the second-largest city in Croatia. The Old Town, built on the ruins of the grand Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian, is noteworthy. Sculptures, marble floors, and historic buildings that now house shops, cafes, and restaurants. Split is a very attractive place for those seeking a true holiday atmosphere. Numerous bars, clubs, and venues invite you to enjoy a vibrant nightlife. 
• Rovinj, a suggestion for those seeking a break from crowded resorts. A quaint town located in the northern part of the country, on the island of Istria. 

Strolling through narrow streets or sipping coffee in a charming café, you can observe the tranquil life of the local community. In Rovinj, it's worth seeing the old town, Balbi's Arch, and St. Euphemia's Church. Hiking and biking trips in the hills are also interesting options.

• Plitvice Lakes National Park – undeniably a hallmark of this country. One of the most beautiful parks in Europe, known for its 16 crystal-clear water bodies and numerous waterfalls. The lake complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The picturesque park full of lush greenery is a great attraction for photographers seeking the perfect shot. Nature lovers will also enjoy Krka National Park, located near one of Croatia's most popular destinations – Dalmatia. The waterfalls, canyons, cliffs, and waterfalls of the Krka River are breathtaking and offer relief on hot days.
• Hvar – the queen of Croatian islands. Bathed in sunlight, the town attracts tourists with the scent of lavender, excellent wine, and olives. If you visit the island during the blooming season, this distinctive scent will long remind you of the picturesque streets, small Croatian taverns, and purple fields of flowers.

Cuisine in Croatia – Eat Like There's No Tomorrow

Croatian cuisine is a blend of many cultures and the result of various influences. On the coast, you'll be tempted by fish and seafood, the north offers exquisite meat dishes, and in the central part of the country, you'll find dishes inspired by Hungarian and Turkish cuisines. 

It's worth trying traditional Cobanac stew, black risotto (popular throughout Croatia), fish, octopus, calamari, langoustines, shrimp, the Balkan delicacy Cevapcici, Kotlovina, Pljeskavica, and of course – Croatian wines, olive oil, and other local delicacies like Dalmatian smoked ham or traditional cheese from the island of Pag.

Simple, aromatic, and very tasty – that's how Croatian cuisine can be summed up. You'll find delicious options both in fine restaurants and small seaside taverns. Search, try, and ask locals where it's worth stopping by for a good meal.