Croatia is the perfect destination for many types of travelers. Whether you travel for adventure, nature, relaxation, cuisine, culture or wildlife, you’ll find what you are looking for in Croatia!

1. The Natural Wonders

Croatia is overflowing with beautiful and varied natural landscapes, making it the perfect European destination for nature lovers, according to Lonely Planet and BuzzFeed. To the west, Croatia boasts 1,100 miles of coastline and more than 1,000 islands, which dot the clear, turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Island highlights include the enchanting Paklenica National Park, part of Velebit Mountain UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which contains the highest peaks in the Velebit Mountains, rising to nearly 6,000 feet and offering lofty views of coast and mountains alike. Cres Island is home to a large colony of rare griffon vultures that nest on cliffs directly above the sea.

Plitvice Lakes National Park © Monika Mikulec

Visitors can find surging waterfalls, hot springs, karst mountains and traditional vineyards within Croatia’s green inland forests. Plitvice Lakes National Park, a celebrated UNESCO Natural Heritage site, is home to Croatia’s famous cascading jade lakes and waterfalls. With brown bears, wolves, lynx, and over 120 species of birds, the Park also provides opportunities to spot wildlife.

2. The Food and Wine

While unbeknownst to most, Croatia has some of Europe’s best cuisine. With a hint of Italian influence, Croatia’s Mediterranean cuisine proudly uses local seasonal ingredients. Dishes are typically paired with a wine from one of Croatia’s many vineyards. Freshly caught seafood is a favorite of many natives, especially in coastal towns.

© Branka Dajak

3. The Majestic Cities and Towns

Croatia has evolved into a modern nation while retaining its relaxed Mediterranean ambience. In the north, bustling cities are renowned for their pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, while coastal towns in the south showcase traditional Croatian stone architecture with red-tiled rooftops. Walking the streets of a Croatian city, visitors can expect to stumble upon anything from a Roman ruin to a quaint sidewalk café to a group of fishermen unloading the day’s catch. Be sure to check for events if you are visiting during Croatia’s summer festival season.

4. The Rich History

With seven designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and approximately 50 Stone Age sites rich in ancient artifacts, Croatia has a wealth of history to share. From the presence of the Greeks, Romans, Slavs and Austro-Hungarians over time, Croatia has been left with pristine medieval towns, ancient churches, countless diverse ruins, and even a large Roman amphitheater where gladiators once fought. There’s plenty of history to see and learn in each one of the country’s cities and towns.

Roman forum ruins in Zadar, Croatia © Max Kiefer

5. The Climate

The mild Mediterranean climate of Croatia—and the fact that it is one of the sunniest regions in the Mediterranean basin—make it the perfect vacation destination. Days spent in Croatia are warm and pleasant.

Ready to see Croatia for yourself? Join us on our Croatia and Slovenia trip, a journey through the sun-soaked Dalmatian Coast and the mountains of Triglav National Park!