Croatia: The call of urban and nature

Croatia offers a wealth of natural and cultural wonders, including eight national parks and ten UNESCO World Heritage sites.

With over four million people living in the country, it is easy to combine urban adventure and nature experiences in one day. All that is required is time, a means of transportation (e.g. a rental car) and a basic understanding of where to go. Popular attractions include Dubrovnik and its many islands, as well as the Plitvice Lakes national park and Split, the country’s second largest city.

Wetlands and Wine

In the hidden region of Slavonia, Croatia’s eastern gem, you’ll find a harmonious blend of Austro-Hungarian-influenced cuisine and fine wines. As you approach Osijek, its medieval charm shines with the towering Church of St Peter and Paul spire and a maze of cobblestone streets. Discover a rustic tavern serving the iconic fiš paprikaš, a hearty fish stew, followed by a trip to Kopački Rit, a vital European wetland home to diverse wildlife. Elevated walkways offer an immersive nature experience, while nearby wineries in Dalj provide a chance for Danube wine tastings.

Magnificent National Parks

Heading west towards the Adriatic, Risnjak National Park, despite its proximity of 10 miles to the coast, is nestled in Croatia’s most mountainous and densely forested area, attracting adventurous visitors. Situated within the Dinaric Alps, this rocky ridge along the Dalmatian Coast offers a landscape adorned with dolomite and limestone rocks and hidden caves. Trails lead to breathtaking vistas of rocky peaks and lush meadows, winding around emerald lakes. After exploring Risnjak, venture to Rijeka, Croatia’s third-largest city, where the Korzo, a bustling pedestrian street, is lined with shops and eateries. Climb to Trsat Castle for panoramic city and bay views or visit the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. Continuing north to the Istrian peninsula, discover Pula’s remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater and the nearby Brijuni islands, with their rich blend of nature and historical sites, including the ancient olive tree on Velki Brijuni and a scenic bike trail along the Adriatic.

Urban ambling and mountain meandering

Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, is wonderfully walkable. Wander through the medieval charm of the Upper Town with cobblestone streets and outdoor cafés like Tkalčićeva Street or Flower Square. Don’t miss the captivating Museum of Broken Relationships. Nature is within easy reach at Medvednica Nature Park, just a short public bus ride away, offering lush hiking trails and skiing on Mount Sljeme in winter. Croatia’s mix of nature and urban allure awaits your next visit.

SOURCE: NatGeo

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