Croatia is an influential name on the UNESCO World Heritage List, and almost every city along the coast has something to offer. Euphrasian Basilica in Poreč is one of the best-preserved early Christian complexes, Zadar has the inspiring sea organ and it wins the best sunset spot while St. Jacob’s Cathedral in Šibenik is the most important monument of the Renaissance in the whole country.
Further south, you’ll find the town of Trogir with the striking Romanesque churches combined with the prominent buildings from the Venetian period. The gorgeous Split has the Diocletian Palace, an ancient palace built for the Roman emperor Diocletian which forms about half of the old town. The famous Dubrovnik city (King’s Landing) has Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. And that’s just to name a few! So where to go? What to do?
Sunset in Zadar
The city of Zadar is Croatia's oldest continuously inhabited city. =Zadar's Old Town retains the traits of an ancient Roman city. It was ruled by the Byzantines, Franks, Venice Republic, Austria, France, and Italy, before being returned to Croatia after World War II. During the conflict, the city was bombed heavily, and more than 60% of the structures were severely damaged. Today, visitors come to see the rich heritage, newly opened museums, and sights like the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun. Zadar retains the feel of a little town while offering attractions and rich history. It also has the most gorgeous sunset in the world, at least according to Alfred Hitchcock. This is a city that you must visit during your journey to Croatia!
Drink a Cocktail in a Palace in Split
The obvious starting point for your summer in Croatia is the port city of Split. This emperor guy Diocletian decided this was the best place in the world and built a gorgeous palace so he could enjoy his retirement in peace. The city evolved from the palace (it's still there) into the second-largest city in Croatia. Diocletian was no fool; Split is indeed one of the most beautiful places in the world (definitely the most beautiful if you ask some people). Walk in the same streets as the Roman Emperor, and visit the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world (St. Domnius). Swim on one of the local beaches and party in one of the many clubs now open all night!
Sail to Šolta
Šolta (showl-tah) doesn't get as much hype on Instagram as Hvar, but everyone knows it’s the underrated place that is the best to visit. Hit the charming marinas in Maslinica or Stomorska, and sail around the island's southern bays and coves as you experience the beauty and peace of the Adriatic sea. Often overlooked by party goers, this island is a paradise for those looking to get away from drunk vacationers screaming and throwing up on the thousand-year-old streets.
Stop by The Lovely Brač
Another authentic Mediterranean island and a must-see on your summer Croatia itinerary is Brač (bratch). The famous Golden Horn beach changes its shape according to the currents and waves, and it's a windsurfers utopia while small towns such as Milna are known for their relaxed appeal. Brač is famous for its pure white limestone that made its way to the White House in Washington DC. Definitely visit the Blaca Hermitage Monastery founded by Glagolitic priests in the 16th century.
Hidden gems such as Rasotica cove, which reminds of a fjord or an interesting Smreka (Smrika) where you can anchor your boat in a tunnel fortified by old warplanes make Brač a top island for the Croatia sailing itinerary.
Party in Hvar
The sunniest island in Europe needs little introduction. Boaters from all over the world arrive at Hvar Island to explore the magnificent beaches and party at the Carpe Diem Beach Club.
Pakleni Islands, located across from Hvar town, have been a famous boating mecca for years. Stop in one of its remarkable bays where you can swim, snorkel, or treat your senses to a local specialty. If you're looking for a quieter spot, try Vela Garska and the local Calma beach bar.
Get Lost in Vis
Vis was the first place in Croatia where the British played cricket, and the cricket club is still active. Vis is a unique island and was once one of the most important military ports and thus isolated from tourists for years. Visit the impressive Stiniva Bay, a small beach surrounded by massive, majestic cliffs, and a narrow entrance. Of course, since you're already there, you have to check out Porat or the port on Biševo, a sandy bay perfect for an overnight stay. For those with more time and the wish to explore hidden gems, the sandy lagoon on Budikovac Island is a delightful site for anchoring.
Explore Korčula
The “Little Dubrovnik,” also known as "Sailor's paradise" (due to the winds from Pelješac channel), Korčula is one of the islands with fascinating architecture and history. Wine lovers can try the famous local wine, and if you happen to find yourself in Korčula Town on a summer Thursday at 21:00, you can witness the renowned sword dance - Moreška. While you're there, visit the famous Vela Luka town on the west side, but the star of the show is Lumbarda - a sheltered bay that hides luxuriant flourishing vineyards, turquoise sea, and sandy beaches. A few minutes from Lumbarda lies Vela Przina - a gorgeous sandy beach perfect for those who aren’t into the Croatian pebbled beaches and Vaja Beach with spectacular views ideal for a romantic sunset.
The Famous Dubrovnik
Everyone seems to be talking about Dubrovnik! The Adriatic city of Dubrovnik is a true gem. The city's Old Town is not only one of the most beautiful places on the planet, but it also has some of the best beaches, crystal blue waters, and a plethora of beautiful restaurants and pubs. A Game of Thrones filming site has so much to offer - with the Stradun (the city's main cobblestone-paved street), the Old Port or the Mount Srd - the highest point above Dubrovnik for breathtaking views. Check out The Pharmacy, which dates from the 14th century, and is located inside the Franciscan Monastery in Old Town (the oldest in Europe) or see the Dubrovnik 5D Theatrum At St Claire's Convent, the presentation is only half an hour-long, but it will provide you with an incredible insight into the city and its history!
Taste the Mediterranean: Croatia's Best Extra Virgin Olive Oils
Croatia has a long history of cultivating high-quality olives, making it the perfect place to experience the best extra virgin olive oils in the world. These oils are packed with flavour and are produced using traditional methods that ensure purity and quality. And while you can eat these oils by themselves, they’re also perfect for cooking and baking with as well, giving your dishes Mediterranean flair and extra depth of flavour.
Croatian olive oil’s story is just as fascinating as that of its more famous Italian counterpart. Ancient trees bear fruit in coastal regions across Hvar, Split and Dubrovnik, but don’t take it from us—plunge into a tasting tour with your taste buds!
Some of Croatia’s finest olive oil comes from its most southerly region. The Pelješac Peninsula is home to numerous organic producers who source their olives exclusively from local, Italian varieties.
If you’re visiting Dubrovnik during summertime (June to September), be sure to stop by while it’s harvest season. The area’s producers and processors of extra virgin olive oil take part in several events each year; if you visit during olive harvest season (September through October), you can learn about all things olive oil before tasting a wide range of oils.
And finally, if you’re looking to try out some amazing extra virgin olive oil, try our own Selo Olive Oil from our village near Zadar. Just be warned that once you try it, you may never be able to go back to those supermarket brands again!