What are you looking for

Close search

Visit Croatia

Think Europe, but not quite. Kind of Greek islands, but not quite... Croatia’s cultural charm can be hard to define, probably because it’s influenced by such diversity: Slavic folklore, maritime tradition, Venetian merchants and devout Roman Catholicism. 

With an idyllic stretch of Adriatic coastline and island retreats, the laid-back Mediterranean mind-set thrives. And if it’s cinematic scenery you’re after, Croatia delivers, which is why it’s a favourite for film and TV directors. The three-time Academy Award winner, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’, was filmed in a village just outside Zagreb in 1971, for instance, and in 1982, Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline and Peter MacNicol converged on Raiserovo castle in Samobor to film ‘Sophie’s Choice’. 

Too young to remember these classics? More recent productions include the BBC-produced TV series, ‘Doctor Who’ (which was filmed in Trogir in 2009); ‘Star Wars: Episode VIII’ was shot in Dubrovnik; ‘Robin Hood: Origins’ (filmed in Dubrovnik) and ‘Mamma Mia 2’ with Pierce Brosnan was filmed on the island of Vis.

Split, meanwhile, is Croatia’s second-largest city, and the location of many of Daenerys' dragon training scenes from ‘The Game of Thrones’ – you may recognise the third-century Diocletian’s Palace, which was used in the show as her throne room. Another city that makes an appearance on this popular show is the walled city of Dubrovnik. It was the main filming location in Croatia for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms, and a great place to explore on foot

And we haven’t even started on the nature… 10% of Croatia is protected: there are 11 nature parks, eight national parks and two nature reserves – along with kilometres of pristine coastline and more than 1 200 islands, isles, reefs and islets. Leave your electronics at the hotel and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. 

The highlight, of course, is the Unesco-registered treasure, Plitvice Lakes National Park, famous for its 16 lakes dramatically linked by plunging waterfalls. And be sure to visit Hvar Island, the sunniest spot in Europe. Here, locals welcome you as if you’re one of the family –their bright disposition is thanks to the average 2 800 hours of sunshine they get annually.

The best part is that Croatia is a budget traveller’s dream – even private boat charters and seafront accommodation won’t break the bank, especially if you share with friends. 

The recent influx of tourism means road and hotel infrastructure has been improved, making it easier than ever to visit. But whatever you do, make sure to spend some time on the water and interact with locals – a day out on the sea with Croatians will make you never want to leave.

Best for:
Active Travellers; Arts + Culture Lovers; Backpackers/Budget Travellers; Couples/Honeymooners; History Buffs; Nature Lovers; Beach Bums; Cruising

Go there!

Log In to Access Your Suitcase

You need to log in to add packages to, and manage, your suitcase. Please log in or register.