The Charming Croatia

Money:

The currency in Croatia is the Croatian Kuna (HRK). About 7,5 HRK equals 1 EUR. Cash is preferred in most places, but credit cards are also widely accepted. 

Food:

The cuisine of the Dalmatia region is the Mediterranean, strongly influenced by Italy due to the history and geographical position. The most popular ingredients in Dalmatian dishes are different types of fish and seafood, lamb, dried meats, cheese, olives, herbs, figs, grapes, and green vegetables.

Visa:

Travelers from Europe, North America, and Australia/NZ doesn't need a visa. However, if you travel from Asia, South America or Africa, you most likely will need a visa. In the link below, you can choose your country of origin, and see whether or not you'll need a visa. 

Weather:

The weather in Croatia is a warm temperate Mediterranean climate, which means that it gets hot in summer and mostly without rain, and in wintertime, it's chilly (but not exactly cold) with rain! So, the peak time to go to Croatia is July-August, but you can also encounter nice weather in April-June - and fewer tourists!

Transportation:

Transportation by public transport is possible, but I would recommend renting a car. This way, you can go on your own path, making your vacation more flexible. 

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and the largest city as well. Most people tend to go to the famous coast of Croatia. Still, Zagreb is a vibrant little capital - and a good base for exploring nearby capitals too. So if you have the time, Ljlublana is only a 2-hour drive away, and Budapest a 3,5-hour drive. 

Zagreb city center is small, so if you just stay nearby, it's easily walkable, and you won't need any other means of transportation. The hotel I've found below is within walking distance from the city center. 

Start off with a small sightseeing tour of Zagreb, and remember to experience the tunnels used doing World War II. 

As mentioned, Zagreb is a vibrant little city, so head to Ivan-Tkalcic Street and stroll around this area. It's filled with cafes and restaurant and just have a nice vibe. Spend some time people-watching while enjoying a drink, and prepare yourself for your next adventure (and the highlight of your trip!)
 

Plitvice:

On your way down to Zadar, make sure you stop by Plitvice Lakes National Park. It's a 2-hour drive from Zagreb, and then another 2 hours to Zadar afterward, but it's worth it. Plitvice Lakes National park is probably the most famous landmark of Croatia, and you'll get amazed by the beauty of this place. You can easily spend a whole day here, just exploring the nature and hiking the trails!

Zadar is a small coastal town known for its old charming city center and the Sea Organ. Both of them are a must-see. However, staying in the old part of Zadar can be pricey, so you might find a better value just outside of the Old Town, like the hotel I've found below.

Stroll around the Old Town of Zadar, and enjoy the small narrow streets, many restaurants, and the ancient buildings. Head to "The Garden" for a cold drink in a chilled atmosphere.

Many cruise ships stop by Zadar, and (in my opinion) makes it too crowded. So if you can, choose dates where there are no ships in town, and it will make your visit more pleasant. 

Take the coastal route down to Split and stop by Sibenik for a couple of hours. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also bungee jump at Sibenik Bridge! Just nearby (and on the route) is Krka waterfalls, a smaller and less-known version of Krka (and you're allowed to swim here, so remember your bathing suit!). 

Split really has it all - breathtaking coastline, rich cuisine, fascinating history, and countless little islands. Be sure to take a boat tour and visit some of these fantastic islands - you won't regret it.

Once you are in the center of Split, it's very easy to navigate. Almost all touristic spots are a walking distance from each other, and the charming narrow streets always lead you to the city's main coffee-drinking seaside promenade, Riva.

The famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Diocletian's Palace, makes about half the old town of Split. It was built in the 4th century for the Roman emperor Diocletian, and it remains well intact to this day. Interestingly, it served as a filming location for the fourth season of the series Game of Thrones.

Omiš is situated in a small valley just where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea. Omiš is a small town, and everything is easily accessible just by walking. Start off by exploring the “Old Town” of Omiš, and wander the tiny, narrow but cozy streets. For dinner, I recommend trying out Pizzeria Antula - they make a seriously delicious pizza!

Omiš is one of the only places in Croatia with a sandy beach, so you won’t need to wear those fancy water shoes here - luckily!

Spend some time enjoying the sandy beach and the calm sea - it’s a nice place to relax before the adventure begins!

Yes, Omiš is kinda the adventure capital of Croatia. Due to the Cetina River, you can enjoy River Rafting (and I would definitely recommend you to try it - it’s so much fun!), kayaking, and canyoning. Omiš is surrounded by mountains as well, so this is also the perfect place to challenge your body and strength with rock climbing. 

For Game of Thrones fans, Dubrovnik is going to be the highlight of this trip! Part of Game of Thrones is filmed right here in the heart of Dubrovnik, and when you venture into this small city, you'll be able to see precisely where. You can also join a movie set tour if you want the full experience!

If Game of Thrones is not your thing, don't worry, you can still enjoy this city as well.
 

Start off by exploring the Old Town of Dubrovnik - you can literally spend hours strolling around this part of Dubrovnik. If you happen to stumble upon a small hole in the side of the wall, try to go through it - it might lead you to Buža Bar. Buža Bar is a famous, cool bar but with a bit of a hidden entrance, so you should be on the look-out. 

Take Dubrovnik Cable Car up to the top of Srđ, a small mountain. It offers incredible views over Dubrovnik. You can also enjoy a cold drink at Panorama Restaurant while you check out the view.