Located on the sunny shores of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a hidden gem in Europe that has a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes: from the bustling streets of Zagreb to the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and the pristine beaches of Hvar.
An ideal travel itinerary would be to begin your Croatian journey in the capital city of Zagreb. The city has old-world charm with its historic Upper Town—where you can stroll on cobblestone streets with centuries of history—and the Lower Town, with its vibrant energy. The modern side is located in the Lower Town, full of trendy cafes, museums, and galleries. A must-see destination is the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, home to amazing waterfalls and an abundance of natural beauty.
The city of Split has both ancient ruins and coastal scenery begging to be photographed. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, which was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the Fourth Century. This landmark serves as the beating heart of the city.
From the marina in Split, you can hop on a ferry to the beautiful island of Hvar—known for its lavender fields, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. For a taste of local cuisine, indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant or savor a glass of local wine in one of Hvar’s charming vineyards.
Dubrovnik (pictured in the photo above) is the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” encircled by medieval walls. It’s Old Town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, while its narrow streets reveal centuries of history. Walk along the iconic city walls and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops and the azure sea. You can also visit several Game of Thrones filming locations. Dubrovnik’s main street, The Stradun, is where you’ll find live music and lively cafes—all of which add to the enchanting atmosphere.
There are over 700 islands in Croatia. They’re worthy of sampling, with their hidden coves, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages. You can experience your island-hopping adventures via local boating companies.
Croatian cuisine reflects the diversity of its regions by indulging in pasticada, a braised beef dish, as well as plenty of fresh seafood dishes. Pair your meals with local wines, such as Plavac Mali or Malvazija, and then complete your meal with some rozata, a traditional caramelized custard dessert.
The best months of the year to visit Croatia are May, June, September and October. There are small group tours from various travel companies to choose from, including Globus, Trafalgar and Tauck. Each step in Croatia is a journey through time, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re wandering through ancient cities, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, or savoring the flavors of the Adriatic, Croatia invites you to be captivated by its timeless charm.
Frank Bastone is the owner of Pinnacle Trips, a travel advisory company specializing in domestic and international vacations for baby boomers.He can be reached at 845-669-6149 or frank@pinnacletrips.com
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26 Feb 2024
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Located on the sunny shores of the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a hidden gem in Europe that has a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes: from the bustling streets of Zagreb to the ancient walls of Dubrovnik and the pristine beaches of Hvar.
An ideal travel itinerary would be to begin your Croatian journey in the capital city of Zagreb. The city has old-world charm with its historic Upper Town—where you can stroll on cobblestone streets with centuries of history—and the Lower Town, with its vibrant energy. The modern side is located in the Lower Town, full of trendy cafes, museums, and galleries. A must-see destination is the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, home to amazing waterfalls and an abundance of natural beauty.
The city of Split has both ancient ruins and coastal scenery begging to be photographed. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Split is home to Diocletian’s Palace, which was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the Fourth Century. This landmark serves as the beating heart of the city.
From the marina in Split, you can hop on a ferry to the beautiful island of Hvar—known for its lavender fields, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. For a taste of local cuisine, indulge in fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant or savor a glass of local wine in one of Hvar’s charming vineyards.
Dubrovnik (pictured in the photo above) is the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” encircled by medieval walls. It’s Old Town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, while its narrow streets reveal centuries of history. Walk along the iconic city walls and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of terracotta rooftops and the azure sea. You can also visit several Game of Thrones filming locations. Dubrovnik’s main street, The Stradun, is where you’ll find live music and lively cafes—all of which add to the enchanting atmosphere.
There are over 700 islands in Croatia. They’re worthy of sampling, with their hidden coves, secluded beaches, and charming fishing villages. You can experience your island-hopping adventures via local boating companies.
Croatian cuisine reflects the diversity of its regions by indulging in pasticada, a braised beef dish, as well as plenty of fresh seafood dishes. Pair your meals with local wines, such as Plavac Mali or Malvazija, and then complete your meal with some rozata, a traditional caramelized custard dessert.
The best months of the year to visit Croatia are May, June, September and October. There are small group tours from various travel companies to choose from, including Globus, Trafalgar and Tauck. Each step in Croatia is a journey through time, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge to create an unforgettable tapestry of experiences. Whether you’re wandering through ancient cities, relaxing on sun-drenched beaches, or savoring the flavors of the Adriatic, Croatia invites you to be captivated by its timeless charm.