Dubrovnik is a well-preserved historical city in southern Croatia, known for its distinctive 16th century Old Town, encircled with massive stone walls. After a disastrous earthquake in 1667, the medieval town was rebuilt by Baroque planners and the city’s historic core seems to have been suspended in time ever since. Set-piece churches and public buildings blend seamlessly with green-shuttered stone houses, forming a perfect ensemble relatively untouched by the twenty-first century. Its impressive buildings range from the Baroque St. Blaise Church to the Renaissance Sponza Palace and the Gothic Rector’s Palace, which is now a history museum. Add to this a few exquisitely manicured gardens and some panoramic views of the Adriatic, and it is not difficult to see why Dubrovnik has long been Croatia’s most popular tourist destination.
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Dotting the Adriatic Sea off the Peljesac Peninsula of Croatia, the island of Korcula is best known for its dense pine forests, from which it got its name. One of Korcula’s unusual claims to fame is that it is said to be the birthplace of the Venetian merchant and adventurer, Marco Polo. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of wonderful activities including: exploring the medieval architecture in the town of Korcula, discovering the beaches of Vela Przina and Pupnatska Luka, or jumping on a yacht excursion to explore the nearby island of Hvar. Other popular activities include: biking tours, sightseeing, hiking, sailing, windsurfing, sea kayaking, diving, snorkelling and paragliding.
Situated in the Adriatic Sea just off the coast of Croatia, the sun-drenched island of Hvar is a popular summer destination known for its spectacular landscape of lush rolling hills, hidden coves, and secluded beaches. The island’s hillsides are swathed in olive groves, lavender fields, and cultivated vineyards which produce excellent wines. The main town, also called Hvar, is a glitzy playground boasting vibrant nightlife, swanky bars, and elegant restaurants. For visitors looking for some serenity, the rest of the island is dotted with quaint fishing villages featuring magnificent medieval architecture. Numerous adventure activities are also on offer, including kayaking, snorkeling, scuba diving, caving, and boating.
Set opposite Hvar’s harbour off its southwest coast, the Palkleni archipelago is an other-worldly destination of pristine beaches, flourishing nature and fun-filled atmosphere. Created from a love affair between Poseidon and a nymph, the islands thrill their visitors with a variety of reasons to visit. Enjoy a truly idyllic naturalist experience at Jerolim’s Kordovon Beach, voted the best in Europe; explore vineyards, a botanical garden filled with exotic plants and an ancient spa remains at St. Klement; and party the night away at Marinkovac Island’s famous beach clubs. Most of the islands boast phenomenal beaches, excellent facilities and impressive fine-dining restaurants. Snorkelling, cave exploring, hiking, and many more activities are on offer. The islands are easily accessible from Hvar and Split, and make a great base for exploring the surrounds.
Vis is an alluring seaside town set on the island of the same name in southern Croatia, in a well-protected bay. This destination boasts two pretty pebble beaches, a photogenic marina and a wealth of interesting historic attractions. Charismatic stone buildings, linked by narrow lanes and relaxing squares, exhibit the town’s complex history, with Roman, Greek and English structures. The remains of ancient Issa, which feature a necropolis, theatre, and other sites, is a must-see, along with a fascinating museum dedicated to it, filled with ancient Greek jewellery and sculpture. Vis also features several war forts from different eras; and a collection of impressive Roman Catholic Churches. The postcard-perfect port, backed by impressive buildings and lined with cafes, makes for lovely strolls, excellent romantic dining, sailing, and photography.
Split, the second largest town on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, is famed for its exquisite beaches and the fortress-like complex at its centre - Diocletian's Palace, erected by the Roman emperor in the 4th century. Once home to thousands, this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage site is encircled by white stone walls and contains some lovely courtyards lined with an array of galleries, shops, bars, cafes, cathedrals, and several historical houses. Add to this an impressive backdrop of dramatic coastal mountains and the glistening waters of the Adriatic, and it is not difficult to see why the locals frequently claim that theirs is, "The most beautiful city in the world".
