NYTimes Croatia Travel
A visit to Croatia is sure to be an unforgettable experience for travelers of any age. This beautiful country, located in the eastern part of Europe, is brimmed with historical and cultural attractions—such as the stunning city of Dubrovnik and the beautiful Plitvice Lakes National Park. When you travel to Croatia, you’ll be captivated by its gorgeous coastline, stunning architecture, mouth-watering cuisine, and friendly locals.
The New York Times suggests that Croatia is one of the most underrated travel destinations in Europe. They ranked the country as the seventh best place to visit in 2018, encouraging travelers to explore its lesser-known spots and unique attractions. Furthermore, the Times highlights the country’s stunning national park scenery, buzzing nightlife, and still relatively low prices.
One of the must-visit areas of the country is the capital city of Zagreb. This vibrant metropolis is filled with exciting attractions—museums, galleries, theaters, restaurants, and more. Additionally, the city provides an ideal air-connectivity throughout Croatia, with bustling Zagreb Airport conveniently located in the city center.
Croatia is home to some of the most beautiful places in Europe. Visitors can find some of the best beaches in the world—on the many islands that Croatia is known for, such as Hvar and Korcula. Visitors may also take boat trips and explore the hundreds of nearby islands scattered along the Adriatic coastline.
According to travel experts, the best times to plan a trip to Croatia are during the months of March to May and September to October. These are the months where the weather is ideal and there is less tourist traffic. Additionally, this is when the prices are usually more affordable.
The New York Times also recommends that travelers vacation to Croatia specifically for its unique cultural and religious events. Entering many religious festivals and evening community gatherings will give travelers a unique local-style experience—encompassing food, music, and art.
For those seeking more of an adventure, rafting and canyoning are popular in Croatia. Rafter on the Cetina River or take a boat trip to explore the stunning islands. Experienced canyoneers can level up with technical tours with professional guides—all offering a full day of adrenaline-filled fun.
Croatia offers an abundance of activities for families as well. Water sports such as kayaking and sunbathing are very popular along the coast, while the Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see for the entire family. Additionally, there are numerous boat and land-based adventure tours available that provide fun for adults and kids.
Food Scene in Croatia
Croatian cuisine is a delicious mix of Mediterranean flavors. Being such a rich, cultural melting pot, the Croatian menu is a unique blend of many Mediterranean countries’ flavors. Travelers will find meat dishes, fish, and seafood offerings, as well as a variety of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
Traditional foods are staples of the Croatian diet, such as: sarma (any type of meat or vegetable dish wrapped in cabbage or pickled cabbage leaves), kulen (a type of cured sausage served in slices), and strukli (a pastry-like dough dish prepared hot or cold).
In addition to local restaurants, hungry travelers should also check out farmers markets. The markets are brimming with fresh fruits, vegetables, and daily treats. Also popular among Croatians is street food. Unique snacks such as burek, savory or sweet (filled with cheese, spinach, or apples) are relatively easy to find and provide a wonderful sampling of traditional-style meals.
Croatian Affordable Travel Budget
Affordable travel in Croatia is definitely achievable if you plan your trip wisely. The New York Times recommends setting aside approximately $1,500 for three weeks of travel. A three-week trip will generally include tickets, accommodations, and basic meals for two people. However, staying in larger cities such as Zagreb or Dubrovnik may require more money.
Travelers may also find budget-friendly accommodation options such as Airbnb and Couchsurfing, which are convenient ways to save some cash. Also, travelers can take advantage of free attractions such as exploring historical sites or visiting natural parks and beaches.
food can also be an affordable option. Visitors can find smaller, local restaurants serving traditional dishes at much lower prices. Bus tickets are generally inexpensive—as long as you don’t have to take extra trips in order to reach your destination.
In the end, the cost of travel in Croatia largely depends on how much you’re willing to spend. Taking advantage of various budget-friendly options, travelers can easily spend less while still having a great experience.
Unique Experiences in Croatia
One of the most fascinating things about Croatia is the sheer variety of experiences on offer. From traveling back in time to visiting ancient Roman ruins, to discovering the hidden beaches of the Dalmatian Coast.
For adrenaline junkies, Croatia offers an array of outdoor activities such as trekking, mountain biking, kayaking, and even sky diving! With such a diverse range of activities on offer, Croatia caters to a variety of interests. And if your preferred activity isn’t offered, you can easily customize your own individual experience.
Travelers can also take a cultural tour and experience the unique Croatian culture in areas such as the islands of Hvar, the enchanting city of Dubrovnik, and the lively cities of Split and Zagreb. Above all, Croatia’s cultural diversity is sure to capture the hearts of every traveler.
Croatia is also a country full of historic charms and natural beauty. Walk through the colorful streets of Old Town Dubrovnik, take a boat tour around the country’s many islands, or explore the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. There’s something for everyone in Croatia.
Croatain Nationl Parks and Beaches
Croatia has some of the most picturesque national parks and beaches in Europe and the world. The breathtaking beauty of the Plitvice Lakes National Park, the wild coastline of the Kornati Islands, and the crystal-clear water of the Dalmatian coast are just some of the reasons why Croatia is such a popular destination.
In addition to National Parks, Croatia boasts stunning beaches. Pristine beaches such as Zlatni Rat on Brač Island are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. On the island of Mljet, turquoise-blue waters surround the 1,200-year-old Benedictine monasteries.
Beaches in Croatia range from long and sandy beaches in the south, to pebbled and stoney beaches further north. Wherever you decide to go, you’ll be rewarded with some of the world’s most beautiful scenery.
For those who want to avoid the crowds, quieter corners can be found in the smaller coves and beaches on the Dalmatian Coast. Many of these beaches are accessible only by boat, thereby making them a great destination for more secluded vacationing.
Nightlife in Croatia
Croatia is known for its lively nightlife, particularly in the buzzing cities of Zagreb and Split. In Zagreb, you’ll find a wide range of clubs, pubs, and bars. Split’s nightlife is also bustling, with locals and tourists flocking to the clubs and beach bars on the popular Bačvice Beach.
Ibiza-style all-night parties can be found in the exotic underground clubs in Zrće beach. Here, travelers can dance into the wee hours of the morning. For a more traditional night out, visitors can experience the charming restaurants and local music in the Old City of Dubrovnik.
Croatia also offers unique experiences such as dinner cruises, wine tastings, and beer-tasting tours. From tranquil evenings spent in the countryside to bustling nights in the buzzing cities, Croatia has something to offer for everyone.
Safety in Croatia
Croatia is generally a very safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions when traveling in the country.
Crime rates in Croatia are low, especially in the cities. However, travelers should always exercise caution and be vigilant about pickpockets. Also, visitors should be aware that pick-pocketing and drug dealing can occur in bars and clubs in Croatia—so it’s always good practice to avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing expensive jewelry when visiting nightclubs.
Another thing to be aware of is the wild areas of Croatia. It is strongly recommended that visitors do not wander off alone in the countryside or on deserted beaches at night.
Overall, Croatia is very safe to travel. With the proper precautions, travelers can have a worry-free and enjoyable experience in this breathtaking country.
