Feeling at peace in Lake Bled
‘After you’ve finished we can take a pletna out to Bled Island.’ She said smiling. ‘There’s no rush is there?’ I replied, snapping out of
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Croatia Group Tours
With 1,778 kilometres of spectacular coastline, it’s no surprise that Croatia is one of Europe’s most popular destinations. But there is much more to this fantastic country than sun, sand and beautiful sea views. Roman, Venetian, Italian and Austro-Hungarian rulers have left their mark on the architecture. For example, you will discover a strong Eastern European influence in the baroque architecture of Zagreb, Croatia’s capital.
From the historic Dubrovnik city walls to the mesmerising sea organ in Zadar, Croatia is full of charm and adventure. You could be exploring the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, or dipping your toes into the pools below Krka Waterfalls. From a host of adventure activities and hidden cobbled streets, Croatia will always leave you wanting more.
Group Tours of Croatia
A group tour is an excellent way to explore Croatia. Tucan Travel has been operating for over thirty years. In fact, we have been taking travellers through Croatia long before the cameras started rolling on Game of Thrones!
Group tours are perfect for solo travellers visiting Croatia who want to meet new friends along the way.
Top 12 places to visit in Croatia
With a country so rich in ancient towns, fascinating history and breathtaking coastline, it can be difficult to know where to begin when planning your holiday to Croatia. The good news? Croatia is relatively small in size and all the hot spots can definitely be ticked off in one trip. We have compiled a list our favourite destinations in Croatia below.
1. Dubrovnik
A gorgeous hue of terracotta rooftops enclosed by an ancient fortress meet the sharp blue of the Adriatic Sea – Dubrovnik is charming and wholly picturesque. Located on the coast of Croatia, Dubrovnik was once a popular trading seaport and became notoriously wealthy during the 15th and 16th centuries. These days, it’s a top destination for visitors to the Mediterranean and has a host of highlights just waiting to be explored. The most notable attraction in Dubrovnik is the old city walls, placing the old town on the UNESCO World Heritage list. In fact the ancient corners of Dubrovnik were used as filming locations for the popular HBO series, Game of Thrones.
Travel Tip
Get up early and walk the Dubrovnik city walls as soon as they open. This is by far the quietest time of the day and you will have more space to enjoy the views.
2. Split
Split is Croatia’s second largest city, after the capital Zagreb. Positioned on the coast with easy access and regular ferries to popular islands, Split is the perfect mix. It blends centuries-old tradition with modern restaurants and bars. Take a tour of Diocletian’s Palace, a large Roman palace built in the fourth century AD for Roman emperor Diocletian. Unlike Dubrovnik, Split has plenty of sandy beaches making it the perfect destination to kick back and relax with a spot of sunbathing. When the sun goes down, walk the palm lined promenade and enjoy the city’s buzzing nightlife.
3. Plitvice National Park
Beautiful lakes cascade into one another, shades of blue and green swirl together and waterfalls can be seen on every turn – it’s the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. The National Park can be accessed from either Split or Zagreb on a day trip however we highly recommend staying overnight so that you can access the park as soon as it opens, giving you more time and space to wander the many walkways, enjoy the magical views and see why this is one of the most breathtaking places in Croatia. There are a few hotels located within the park meaning you can walk to the entrance as soon as it opens.
While you cannot swim in the lakes due to the site being protected, there are various trails and walkways over the water so that you can get up close and personal to the waterfalls, viewpoints and hidden corners. So get your camera at the ready, walking shoes on and enjoy one of the highlights of Croatia.
4. Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital and largest city in Croatia, located inland and relatively close to the Slovenian border. The city has a population of just over one million people, accounting for around a quarter of the country’s population. Zagreb has a charming main square, overlooked by the 12th century Cathedral of Zagreb. The city is also home to various museums, such as the Croatian History Museum, Archaeological Museum and the unique “Museum of Broken Relationships” where you can read exhibits on failed love affairs. Explore Dolac Market for a taste of local life and pick up some great produce from local farmers or simply wander the upper town and take in your historical surroundings.
5. Zadar
Zadar is a city not to be missed on any trip to Croatia. Sitting on the coast of the country and surrounded by islands and national parks, the compact city has more than enough to wow any traveller. Walk out to the famous Sun Salutation for sunset, where this large solar panelled glass circle reflects dancing colours once the sun goes down. A few metres away, the peaceful Sea Organ can be heard making all sorts of musical sounds, depending on the tide and speed of waves. This unique work of art was built into the side of the promenade with steps big enough for you to sit down with a coffee or ice cream and listen to the sounds. The cobbled old town is a great place to explore and get lost down the hidden alleys.
6. Hvar
The island of Hvar comes alive during the summer, with glamorous yachts filling up the small harbour and hip beach bars opening until the early hours. This small island is covered in forest, vineyards and olive groves, with lavender fields dotted throughout the land. Hvar Town is the largest on the island with a population of around 4,000 people, with Stari Grad is another main point of entry for many tourists arriving by ferry. The journey from Split takes only an hour, making Hvar an attractive day trip or stop over on a holiday to Croatia. Bike tours, wine tastings and island excursions are all popular attractions while the island also offers boat access to places such as the Blue Cave or smaller islands.
7. Pula
Pula is another popular location built on the coast of Croatia and overlooking the beautiful Adriatic Sea. It is considered to have the best Roman ruins outside of Italy due to importance during the Roman empire, including the impressive amphitheatre which is one of the largest in the world. In its heyday, 20,000 people could fit inside to watch gladiator fights. Pula is now home to one of Croatia’s biggest festivals – Outlook attracts thousands of travellers looking for a unique dance party! Other highlights of Pula include wine tastings, walking the coastal area, local markets and the ancient Temple of Augustus.
8. Krka National Park & Waterfalls
Krka National Park allows visitors to dive head first into the stunning nature of Croatia, literally. You can swim in the lagoons here, admiring the tumbling waterfalls or walk many of the trails located in the 109 square kilometers of the park. The park is named after the Krka River which flows through it, forming the various lagoons and waterfall systems. The park is a mere one hour drive from Split making it an excellent day trip for nature lovers or keen hikers. One of the most popular sights in the park are the Skradinski Buk Falls, which flow into a calm lagoon and is the perfect spot for a dip or some sunbathing.
9. Korcula
The island of Korcula is steeped with charming little houses, plenty of ancient history and an abundance of lush vineyards and olive groves. Korcula has all the makings of a perfect holiday – easy access to nearby islands, stunning beaches, charming towns and good, local food. Paired with a hot, Mediterranean climate, it’s a popular destination for visitors to Croatia. There are good accommodation options meaning you can spend a few days here if you want more time than a quick stopover. Explore the island by bike, enjoy wine and gastronomy tours or even visit the famous house of Marco Polo. Many believe that the famous explorer was born in Korcula.
10. Mljet National Park
The island of Mljet is the largest island closest to the city of Dubrovnik. While a popular island, it is far from over run and encompasses miles of lush green forest and beautiful coves. The main points of entry are Sobra and Pomena, with hotels and guesthouses scattered along the coastal areas of the island. Visitors must pay an entrance fee and obey strict rules in order to keep the national park clean and protected, but it’s definitely worthwhile exploring its beauty on a trip to Croatia. Don’t miss the monastery of St Mary, which sits on its own island in the national park.
11. Lastovo Island
You will have gathered by now that Croatia has an abundance of beautiful islands, and Lastovo is no different. The island is well connected to Split, Dubrovnik, Mljet and Korcula with ferries, and with good accommodation options it’s worth spending a few nights here soaking up the unspoiled nature. Much smaller and less visited than its neighbour Korcula, Lastovo is perfect for nature lovers who want some peace and quiet with lush surroundings. Cycling and walking trails snake through the island, and the village of Lastovo is also worth exploring. Look up at the impressive tall chimneys, it is thought that they were a sign of prestige and wealth for families of the island!
12. Sipan Island
Sipan is the largest of the three islands that make up the Elaphiti Islands, located northwest of Dubrovnik. Explore the colourful villages of Sudurad and Luka Sipanska, encompassed by lush green valleys and vineyards. Olive trees line the countryside, and walking trails are dotted around the island so that you can fully explore its beauty. You could also relax on one of the beaches or rent a sea kayak to experience the lovely coast off Sipan. The two smaller Elaphiti islands are also worth a trip, especially Lopud which is a little slice of paradise, with no cars and a romantic and peaceful atmosphere.
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