See why everyone’s travelling to Croatia

Croatians have been vacationing in Split and Dubrovnik for generations and they’re proud to share these two gems with the world. Split, further north on the coast, is a city full of character, highlighted by Diocletian’s Palace, a town square complete with shopping, restaurants and Croatian mysticism. Split is also the gateway to Croatia’s islands. You can hire a boat to take you over or rent one of your own to enjoy an afternoon or evening surrounded by the sea. But Split’s beaches are where the real action is, especially Bačvice, a family favourite complete with things to do for everyone including picigin, Croatia’s most popular water sport. Dubrovnik, at the southern end of the Dalmatian coast, is about as picturesque a city you’ll find in all of Europe. The red buildings shimmer in the sunlight, and at night, the beaches and streets come alive with music, art and action. Be sure to add a snorkelling excursion to your visit here—the sea life is among the richest in Europe.

Halfway between Split and Zagreb, you’ll find Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the oldest and most visited green spaces in southeast Europe—over a million people a year since 2011 have taken it in. This 297-square-kilometre oasis is home to 16 different lakes, waterfalls, lush greenery and hiking paths you can take to see it all. You can experience the park as part of a tour or you can go on your own, but don’t forget to bring a bathing suit so you can wash your worries away in the park’s famous waterfalls. You won’t find much in terms of authentic Croatian culture in Plitvice, but Zagreb, just two hours northwest, more than makes up for that. It’s a flat city, so it’s easy to walk around and take in the sights for hours on your own. Alternatively, you can sign up for one of the Croatian capital’s all-inclusive walking tours. The best one, Secrets of Grič, is a theatrical walk through the upper town where you can actually act out many of the city’s defining historical moments. If you’re in Zagreb on a Friday night in the summer, this is an absolute must-do.