Hottest destination for the last few years and a backdrop of the most grossing TV show – Croatia is on everyone’s “to do travel” list. Croatia offers medieval vibes and mixed influences, from West to East. But, is it worth the hype?
Yes to Croatia
Croatia is definitely one of the countries you would want to visit at least once in your life. Food is really good and walking around Hvar at night brings out magical moments. Water at so many beaches is also crystal clear and can be a great get away.
But nothing is perfect. I found Croatia to be milking their tourism industry a little too much. I mean paying for a shower at the beach? Stop. A lot of secluded places lost all the charm as businesses took over, commercializing every corner of the country. Even next to the waterfall, there are numerous restaurants and cafes. It’s really too much and kills a lot of ‘natural’ enjoyment. I understand that people live on tourism but it could have been accommodated in a least imposing way.
Dubrovnik
The holy grail of Croatia is well-known King’s Landing from GoT. It almost doesn’t feel real and stand as a toy-like old town for tourists’ entertainment. Nevertheless, it can definitely offer interest history and washed off stone walls with romantic dinners by the water.
Dubrovnik also got options with kayaking and nice viewpoints but one or two days is more than enough. Prices for everything are also through the roof so save your cash for something else.
Split
Split is more of an actual city and not a museum town. You feel Croatians going through their day-to-day business here and feel less trapped by tourist attractions. It also got plenty of wonderful restaurants although it’s pricey for Eastern Europe. They do love their truffle pasta there too, just fyi.
Their wine is also popular so book yourself for one evening at some wine bar and enjoy it with local cheeses. Can’t tell you how good it was because often all wine tastes the same to me but I’ll be interested to know what you think.
Split got plenty of options for nature lovers with beaches, parks and rafting. Just do your due diligence before you decide to go, not all of it is worth your time and sometimes depends on the season.
Hvar
Croatian Ibiza, this island is known for its night life and fancy bars but who am I to tell you that? I went to sleep at 10 pm every night. The best way to discover the island is to rent a scooter for a day and ride around all the little towns and beaches soaking Croatian sun in. Again, wouldn’t recommend more than a few days there.
The best thing about Hvar according to locals? It’s surrounding islands that offer more privacy and only a boat ride away. They also have their famous blue cave that every tour guide will try to sell and trust me, it’s very overhyped. The cave is tiny and you don’t get to swim there plus you have to pay extra to see it, of course.
Croatian vacay
Croatia got so much to offer and I hope their tourism will stabilize soon to preserve the natural beauty of so many sights. Go for good food, great outdoorsy activities and beautiful views. Will you absolutely fall in love? Maybe. You won’t hate it, that’s for sure.
Crystalised 