Mainland Croatia
While Croatia suffered much political instability until the end of the 20th century, the last decade has seen it transform into a leading tourist destination. Sandwiched between the Adriatic Sea and several Balkan countries, Mainland Croatia is a topologically diverse land consisting of plains, hills, rivers, mountains, and an 1800km long coastline. Moreover, with the country’s 4 million population primarily residing in urban cities and the coastal area, Mainland Croatia offers a plethora of exciting holiday options with a heady mix of history, architecture, sun, sand, and unmatched natural beauty.
The country’s capital, Zagreb, in the north, is a fantastic city escape to spend a festive weekend. Its most interesting attractions include the Cathedral of Zagreb, the 13th-century Lotrščak Tower, Zoo Zagreb, and the city’s oldest public park, Maksimir. Zagreb also boasts a high concentration of museums ranging from the Museum of Contemporary Art and Zagreb City Museum to the somewhat eccentric Museum of Broken Relationships and Museum of Hangovers.
The country’s north is also home to Istria, a fertile county known for its wine and culinary specialties, from seafood and truffles to Boškarin, a must-have meaty delicacy. It is also alongside the Istrian Peninsula that travelers can arrive by ferry at the quaint port towns of Poreč and Rovinj. Both places are popular summer retreats known for their beaches and old-world charm. Ferry tickets to Mainland Croatia are available through Ferryscanner, with several sailing throughout the year.
A drive slightly south along the coast will take you to Rijeka. An important port, the city serves as an excellent base for tourists planning to explore the Croatian islands. While in Rijeka, wander around to admire the architecture and stroll on the Korzo, the town’s main promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. For something more vibrant, visit Rijeka during the annual Carnival, held on the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday.
One can witness a different side of Mainland Croatia at any of its eight national parks. Krka National Park in southern Croatia, in particular, is a unique ecosystem. Visitors to the park can relish everything from gorgeous waterfalls and natural lakes to the gushing Krka River, Roman ruins, and monasteries.
Furthermore, Split and Zadar are two quintessential additions to any must-visit list of cities in Mainland Croatia. The historical center of Split is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists can see the ruins of Diocletian Palace and walk on marbled streets. In contrast, Zadar has a more hip and contemporary atmosphere even though it has several ancient findings and museums. Attracting a younger crowd as well as families looking to enjoy life by the sea, Zadar’s quirky attractions include the art installation known as Sea Organ and the Pillar of Shame, a column used for punishment in the Middle Ages.
Last but certainly not least, no visit to Mainland Croatia is complete without a few days in the walled city of Dubrovnik, famous for its gardens, monasteries, and grand squares. Moreover, the town’s Old City has been a part of the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1979. Among the main places to visit in Dubrovnik is Lovrijenac. The grand fortress perched 37 meters above the sea offers fantastic city and sea views and plays host to theatrical performances during summer. Gourmands wanting to savor regional cuisine in Dubrovnik should stop by Lucin Kantun or Proto alongside Stradun, the main street in Old Town. For more scenic panoramas, you can go to the top of Mount Srđ in a cable car. Or, take a 10-minute ferry to Lokrum Island, a nature reserve with a monastery, fort, and an array of flora and fauna.
