With a vibrant history dating back over 2,000 years, Croatia has been seducing travelers for decades with its unique mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Situated on the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea (across from Italy) and bordering Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, Croatia is home to a number of urban centers, traditional villages and pristine landscapes, including over 1,100 islands and over 600 miles of coastline.
With extensive collections of meticulously preserved architectural and historical treasures scattered throughout the country, it appears as though much hasn’t changed in here since the country’s founding on the ruins of the Roman Empire. But don’t be mistaken—Croatia’s youthful zeal keeps pace with the latest trends in fashion, music, film and art, making it a magnet for celebrities.
Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family vacation or a romantic, couples only getaway, Croatia’s rich tapestry of history, art and modern thrills has something for everyone. And since the country has a non-euro economy, exploring Croatia is much easier on the wallet than many European countries.
Dubrovnik
Described by Lord Byron as “The Pearl of the Adriatic” and believed to have been founded in the 7th century, the ancient city of Dubrovnik is one of Croatia’s most loved and visited spots. Located on the country’s southernmost coast, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its fairytale fortress (within the Old City) is packed with medieval stone buildings and romantic winding passageways. Dubrovnik is mainly a cultural destination, which aside from monuments of interest, also offers a series of cultural events and festivals. If you plan to visit the city anytime between July 10th and August 25th be sure to check out Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Held since 1949, this annual summer festival features a diverse program of classical music, theater, opera and dance in a variety of settings and venues.
Hvar Island
Sun worshippers and romantics, this is your place! Considered one of the most inspiring of all Croatian islands, Hvar is a magical blend of natural surroundings and Mediterranean luxury. The island’s largest city, also named Hvar, is rich in culture as it was an important center for early Croatian literature, painting, sculpture, music and architecture. Towering medieval walls (dating from 13th century) and fields of lavender surround the city making for one of the world’s most romantic scenes. Take a walk through the city’s ancient stone streets and spend some time in the city’s main square, the Pjaca. Surrounding the square is where you’ll find many of Hvar’s architectural gems such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Bishop’s Palace, the Arsenal, and the Governor’s Palace, all dating from the 15th to 17th century. The Hvar Summer Festival takes place late June to late September and includes classical music concerts performed by national and international artists, and performances by amateur groups from Hvar. Continue reading
