Stay in Europe and discover a real paradise? Welcome to Croatia! This country has everything to offer to travelers in search of exoticism: Dream islands, coastline dotted with beaches with translucent waters, national parks with lush vegetation or even villages with charming alleys. Very welcoming, the Croatians will not fail to make you taste their specialties while chatting. And sports enthusiasts can indulge in many activities such as diving, fishing, hiking or climbing. What to do in Croatia? Follow the guide, there will be something for everyone!
Discover the islands of Croatia
With its very rugged relief, Croatia has an incredible number of islands and islets. The landscapes there are often spectacular, with the mountains flowing into a sea of incredible colors. One of the most visited islands is Hvar, where you can alternate idleness and cultural activities. If you are looking for more tranquility, head to the island of Vis, in the region of Split. Fishing enthusiasts will go to Porer and fans of scuba diving will visit the island of Biševo. You would have understood it : visiting at least one island during your stay is a must do in Croatia!
Galesnjak Island, in the shape of a heart
Visit the Split Archaeological Museum
The Split Archaeological Museum presents extraordinary collections of Croatian history, both from antiquity and modern times, including the Hellenistic period and that of the first Christians. However, it is especially valuable for the unique collections discovered at Solin. As such, a visit to the museum is an essential complement to a visit to the archaeological site.
Split Archaeological Museum
Know the history of Dubrovnik at the Franciscan Monastery Museum
Near the Pile gate and the Onofrio fountain, this museum has the interest of presenting ancestral medicine, but also many historical objects, witnesses of the past of the city of Dubrovnik. Thus, you will also be able to see a wooden crucifix or even illuminated liturgical books. An original visit to do in Croatia!
The Franciscan Monastery of Dubrovnik
Stroll on the Walls of Dubrovnik
The city walls of Dubrovnik allow to have a very good overview of Croatian military architecture in medieval times. Part of it was built in the 1667th century, but most of it dates from the XNUMXth century. They are so strong that they withstood the earthquake of XNUMX. A walk on the walls of Dubrovnik is one of the many things to do in Croatia.
Walk on the city walls of Dubrovnik
Admire the Diocletian Palace in Split
In Roman times, Emperor Diocletian had this fortified palace built and retired there after his abdication in 305. It was then endowed with a dynastic temple and a mausoleum. Subsequently, this palace was used to house the administration (episcopal palace and administrative seat of Byzantine authority), while the city of Split developed outside its ramparts. This palace allowed the rise of the neoclassical movement, due to the fact that many XNUMXth century artists studied it. Today, it houses small shops, restaurants ... a real living heritage.
The Diocletian Palace in Split
Explore Croatia's natural parks
Natural areas are highly protected in Croatia. Thus the country has 8 national parks, whether on the islands or on the mainland. If you want a change from the beach and don't know what to do in Croatia, going to a national park is a great alternative! Let us quote for example the salt lakes surrounded by lush forest of the island Mljet or even Risnjak National Park which will delight fans of mountainous areas and wild nature.
Risnjak Natural Park
Walk among the ruins of Solin (Salona)
During Roman times, Salona was the main city of the Dalmatian province. It is in this city that Diocletian was born. As you walk among these remains, you will thus enter into terms, in a theater and an amphitheater, will pass near a aqueduct and a necropolis. A nice walk to better understand the history of the country!
The ruins of Salona
Ponder at the Euphrasian Basilica of Porec
The Euphrasian Basilica is a religious ensemble made up of a remarkable basilica, an atrium, a baptistery and an episcopal palace. We find both western and Byzantine influences, which makes this set absolutely unique. It is probably for this reason that UNESCO classified it!
The Euphrasian Basilica of Porec
See the frescoes of the Franciscan Monastery of Hvar
Most of this monastery dates from the XNUMXth century. Only the steeple, Renaissance style, dates from the XNUMXth century. The visit is especially worth Italian paintings scattered throughout the building. Thus, you can admire an impressive Last Supper by Matteo Ingoli. If you love Italian art, this is a must visit in Croatia!
The Franciscan monastery of Hvar
Observe the works of art in the Sermage Palace museum
This castle belonged to two families of the local aristocracy and presents an architecture representative of the XNUMXth century. Nowadays, it hosts the art museum of the city of Varazdin, with a collection of around 3 works from the 000th to the XNUMXth century. In particular, you will be able to see paintings from the great Flemish era. Finally, the museum reserves an area of promotion for local artists.
Sermage Palace
Go back in time at the Pula Amphitheater
Built in Roman times under Augustus, it was enlarged under Emperor Vespasian to reach a maximum capacity of 24 spectators, eager to see gladiatorial shows. The Middle Ages failed to be fatal to him: indeed, its stones were reused in order to carry out other constructions in Pula. Restored, it now accommodates only 5 people who have come to watch plays. In the basements you will be able to see an exhibition on the cultivation of vines and olives in Roman times, as well as many amphorae.
The Pula Amphitheater
Buller on a Croatian beach
Due to the proximity of the mountains, Croatian beaches are often covered with pebbles. A godsend if you hate sand sticking everywhere! The most beautiful beaches in Croatia are scattered along the Adriatic coast or on the country's many islands. From the most spectacular like that of Stiniva on the island of Vis, to the most confidential like Lubenice on the island of Cres, the variety of beaches will meet all your desires. In the program ? Relaxation, snorkeling, diving… there is plenty to do in Croatia!
The beach Zlatni Rat
Climb to the top of the Lotrscak tower
This XNUMXth century tower served to protect Zagreb. So don't be surprised if you hear a cannon shot during the day! Indeed, every day, the tower indicates the hour of noon in this way. Climbing to the top of this medieval tower, you will dominate and be able to admire the view of Zagreb at your leisure.
La tour Lotrscak
Stroll through the heart of the Medvedgrad fortress
Built in the 80th century, it protected Zagreb from the various invasions. Fallen into disuse for centuries, then restored in the 90s and XNUMXs, it is now possible to visit its high towers and remarkably thick walls. You will be able to reach this castle thanks to a superb walk which will allow you to dominate a good part of the region.
Medvedgrad fortress
Have fun in the summer at a festival
The country has many festivals to go to every summer. If you want to combine sightseeing with fun, you've got plenty to do in Croatia!
Spancirfest in Varazdin
Varazdin invites you to participate in a whirlwind of music, dance and laughter. Welcome to Spancirfest, a festival that will delight all tastes! Every year, concerts of world music are scheduled, street performances, but also handicraft art exhibitions from all walks of life, including Croatia. If you are spending August in Varazdin, do not miss this event under any circumstances!
Libertas Festival in Dubrovnik
How to give life to centuries-old monuments? Entrust them to the Libertas festival in Dubrovnik. Every year, concerts of classical music, recitals and folklore shows are given in various places in the city, thus reviving all the heritage!
Rabska Fjera - Medieval Festival in Rab
If you are passing through the island of Rab, then prepare for a trip back in time! Indeed, the island is immersed for a few days in medieval times: costumes, ancestral crafts… Everything is done to ensure that you have an enchanting moment!
Summer nights in Rijeka
This small town also offers its festival based musical performances, plays or operas. A little more classic than the previous ones, it allows you to spend evenings full of reverie.
International Folklore Festival in Zagreb
Zagreb offers a festival through which you will get a glimpse of all Croatian folklore and traditions, but not only. Regularly, artists from all over the world are invited. An unmissable festival to do in Croatia!
Aerial view of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia
The must-sees of Croatia… and after?
A country with a thousand facets, Croatia is well worth a trip. With a very strong history and culture, it can be discovered along the paths and boat trips. Each new place will be an opportunity for enriching explorations ... and there is plenty to do in Croatia!
