Trying to figure out what Croatian cities to visit on your next trip can be hard to navigate. The beautiful country has so many different places to explore. Of course narrowing down what kind of travel you’re in to and how long you’ll be travelling for will definitely help.
It feels like ages ago since I’ve last visited Croatia. It was my first ‘big’ trip on my own, without my parents *gasp*. I honestly didn’t know what to expect and I didn’t believe I was actually embarking on such an adventure until I was landed in Amsterdam during our 2 hour layover. I had never been to a country so far away from home that didn’t speak English. I didn’t know what to expect but I knew I was nervous and a bit scared.
I had no reason to be.
Croatia remains one of the best countries I’ve travelled to and definitely one of my favourites. We managed to see many Croatian cities on our trip because we drop the entire coast. Of course we didn’t stop everywhere but we managed to see quite a few!
Dubrovnik
I know what you’re thinking, duh everyone is going to say Dubrovnik, well it’s for good reason! There’s no city like it! The architecture is very medieval looking and very well preserved. In fact people still live within the city walls, I couldn’t believe it. The city is just as beautiful at night as it is during the day. Walking through the narrow streets with golden lights leading your way is something I’ll never forget. If you’re going to visit do yourself a favour and walk the city walls. It costs a little to get up but you won’t regret it. The views are unbelievable and will have you wondering if what you’re seeing is actually real.
Split
Split is known for its beaches and historical architecture. While beaches weren’t necessarily on the top of my list when travelling to different Croatian cities in November, the landmarks around Split were just as enthralling and entertaining. Most notable you’ll find Diocletian’s palace in this small city. The palace was built back in the 4th century and just walking through the walls you can feel it’s history. Another spot not to miss is Marjan Hill. It’s a bit of a hike but if you can manage it the views of the city below are well worth the effort. You’ll be pleased with the sea of iconic orange rooftops and off-white buildings below.
Zadar
You really won’t need to spend more than a day or two in this seaside town. It’s also small enough to walk the entire city on your own. My personal favourite part of this city was the sea organ. I don’t know if there’s anything like it in the world. The sounds it makes is truly incredible you could sit and listen for hours. Inside the city walls you’ll also find a number of Roman and Venetian ruins including the Church of St. Donatus. The church is a bit of an odd structure but something worth seeing all the same.
Zagreb
This was the city we unfortunately explored the least during our trip but I know I must go back. Zagreb felt like one of the more modern of the Croatian cities we visited actually. With amazing food found all along the main strip the city’s architecture is largely inspired by Austro-Hungary. The best thing to do here is walk around and bring an appetite. One of the most unique things to do here? The Museum of Broken Relationships, it’s exactly as it sounds. Talk about a weird thing to see, plus it’s not the most uplifting thing you can do during your travels.
Rijeka
This seaport town was our first of the Croatian cities we travelled through. It’s also the perfect place to get up early and go for a run in, especially if you’re trying to ward off jet lag. If you’re lucky enough there will be a farmer’s market open during your visit. Not only is this a great way to save yourself money down the road, especially if your road tripping and plan to be in a car for hours on end, but the food is also delicious! Rijeka is very small so you really don’t need to spend too much time here. Stay for at least a night and take advantage of some of the amazing restaurants you’ll stumble across in the city square.
Plitvice Lakes
Okay this isn’t really a Croatian city so much as a region but I had to include it. Although I absolutely love travelling to cities around the world, I love just as much visiting unique and breathtaking landscapes. There’s just something about being out in nature. Plitvice Lakes I’m sure are amazing in the summer but the colours that you get in the autumn are just as beautiful. Plus if you go during off-season you will likely get the lakes all to yourself like we did!
Pula
We unfortunately didn’t make the stop in Pula but I really wish we did. The city looks like a mini Rome. Mostly because it does in fact have it’s own Roman ruins, that very much resemble the Colosseum. I’ve read that Pula has been occupied many times over the years from many different groups including; Romans, Venetians and the Allied Forces during World War II. It definitely sounds like the type of place history buffs would relish in.
Have I missed any of your favourite Croatian cities?
