A perfect destination for the sun worshippers, Croatia’s stunning beaches are a major crowd puller. However, the country is equally rich in culture, history and architecture – all thanks to the past kingdoms that have ruled it at one point or the other.
If you enjoy Roman history, you’d certainly enjoy the marks that ancient Romans and the Venetians have left on this beautiful Mediterranean destination.
With a fascinating adventure in mind, here for you I have pulled out a list of best cities to travel in Croatia:
Pula
Being one of the best cities in Croatia to visit, Pula Is a tourist favorite. It is a city with thousands of years of history behind it and is known for its Roman ruins.
The Roman amphitheater is the highlight of any trip to Pula. Also called the Arena, Pula’s amphitheater is comparable to what you find in Rome.
The pre-historic amphitheater plays host to a number of events throughout the year. Most well known is Pula Film Festival held in July.
As you will roam around the city you will come across a number of Roman remains including arches, city gates, and temples. The beaches of pula are vibrant throughout the year, claimed amongst the best for being sandy and tourist-friendly.
Rovinj
Rovinj is a seemingly quaint fishing village oozing old-world charm. A jewel of history, the archipelago of Rovinj consists of 20 islands.
Traveler’s acknowledge that the small town of Rovinj is in-fact one of the best cities to visit in Croatia.
It’s all fun to explore the narrow cobblestone streets passing through medieval city gates and taking you through various landmarks of the city.
The main attraction of the Rovinj center includes a 12th-century historic clock tower, Euphemia’s Basilica, and Balbi Arch.
The scuba diving enthusiasts will find the coastal coves of Rovinj a great opportunity to explore the sea life.
The best time to visit Rovinj is from May to September, but do understand that it gets very busy during this time.
Hvar
One of the best cities to visit in Croatia, Hvar featues prominently in everyon’s Croatia bucket list.
Havar is a small island off the coast of the Adriatic sea And a beautiful destination in Croatia. The sum of the best things Hvar has to offer includes the laid-back beaches, the sprawling vineyards, and colorful lavender fields.
While in Hvar town, visit fortified walls from the 13th century, gothic buildings, and sun-kissed churches. The city also has an old fortress that you can climb to for great views of the surrounding area.
Many historical buildings are located on and around the town square, including the cathedral of Saint Stephen and the 17th-century arsenal.
A trip to the island is a great way to spend time actively as you will find a number of activities such as cliff jumping, hiking, and swimming.
For those who are looking to get away from the Hvar island, take a boat to the nearby Pakleni islands.
Plitvice National Park
Plitvice National Park is a shining example of one of the top natural attractions in Croatia.
Undoubtedly the most stunning natural destination in Croatia is the Plitvice National Park. With a lush forest encompassing numerous waterfalls, lakes, and rivers, the Plitvice National Park is a gift of nature to Croatia.
The highlight of any visit to the park is the series of connected lakes and waterfalls that you can get close to by biking and board walking.
Split
Split is the country’s second-largest city and as well one of the best cities to visit in Croatia.
Often described as the ‘Mediterranean flower’, Split is known for its stunning architecture and dramatic coastal scenery.
Diocletian’s palace is the highlight of the visit, a fine example of Gothic architecture.
Getting lost in the beautiful city of Croatia is an experience to be had. Follow the labyrinth-like narrow alleyways which lead on to hidden courtyards.
Take the marvel walkways in the Roman Empire palace complex, and sit on one of the numerous small cafes indulging in people watching, a favorite way to pass time.
Dubrovnik
At the top of best cities to visit in Croatia is the medieval city of Dubrovnik. Located by the coast of the Adriatic sea, Dubrovnik is often called the Pearl of the Adriatic.
The city’s origin dates back to the 7th century when it flourished as a center of trade. And it later gained prominence as a place of art and science.
Dubrovnik is known for its historical Old Town featuring cobblestone streets, historical buildings, and rustic churches. But the city’s main attraction is the medieval wall that surrounds it.
Taking the walk along the walls and climbing one of its many platforms is a popular activity among tourists.
But to really get the best views of the city and the surrounding Adriatic sea take the cable car to mount Srđ.
The pretty orange rooftop houses rising just across the shimmering blue waters of the Adriatic sea makes for a stunning view.
The city’s coast also boasts of many great beaches where both the city dwellers and tourists head for a day of sunbathing and swimming. The nearby island, Lokrum is a popular day-trip destination offering a medieval monastery, virgin beaches, and a Botanical Garden.
Krka National Park
The Krka national park is located in the central Dalmatia region and is a protected area filled with wildlife and natural scenery.
The Krka National Park is known for the river of the same name and the numerous canyons And waterfalls it creates. Boardwalks are taking you through stunning turquoise lakes And beautiful waterfalls.
The park also houses ancient structures such as Roman ruins and medieval monasteries.
Zagreb
Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, is often missed by tourists, but for those who have time, there are historical and modern attractions to be seen.
If you do decide to visit Zagreb you’d agree that is one of the best cities to visit in Croatia.
The city’s origin is from the second century as a city hosting diocese.
Zagreb is divided into 2 sections, upper and lower town. The upper town consists of a historic core allowing visitors to experience the medieval champs of the city.
Some of the iconic attractions of Zagreb include the stone gate, the traditional market Dholak market. The city is also known for its café culture with many interesting themed cafes lining up on the streets.
Zadar
With its origins dating back 2000+ years, Zadar is one of the best cities to visit in Croatia.
The relatively less crowded city is located in the northern Dalmatian region of the country.
Begin your tour from the central square and get around exploring the Old Town. The historic core of Zadar houses old churches, medieval buildings, ruins from Roman times, and several museums.
The Roman forum, the unique circularly designed St. Donat’s church, and the Saint Anastasia Cathedral are some of the top attractions of the city.
The city also has modern attractions the two of which you will find near its coastline, the sea organ, and the sun salutation.
Korčula
Korčula is a small island in the Adriatic sea known for being the birthplace of Marco Polo.
From Split and Brno, you can take a ferry to reach the island. Blessed with natural scenery the island of Korčula consists of deep forests, untouched beaches, and vineyards.
While hiking to its villages you will come across olive groves And Roman remains.