Croatia

Croatia has been improving for the last decade as an excellent tourist destination. The country offers the amazing Dalmatian coast and spectacular medieval cities. The capital, Zagreb, is best seen by foot; the city is home to the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which gives you an insight to medieval and Renaissance artefacts.

Great views of Zagreb can be seen from the Lotrscak Tower. A peaceful visit to the Mirogoj cemetery is in order to experience a collection of English gardens. It is well kept and strikingly beautiful. There are only a few medieval ruins in the city, but a choice of fine museums will make up for this.

Croatia’s real beauty, however, lies in Dubrovnik. The old town is 700 years old. You will be overwhelmed by the old streets, convents, churches and palaces. It is well preserved and was repaired excellently after the war. The Franciscan Monastery, St Blaise’s Church, and the Gothic Rector’s Palace will take you breath away.

Definitely worth a trip is the spectacular Diocletian’s Palace, a 15th century town hall and the Maritime and Archaeological Museum – all situated in Split. The Dalmantian coast holds other surprises. Pletvica Park is a well hidden treasure offering walks and waterfalls. Those who fancy trying island hopping may wish to head to Lokrum or Korcula islands. The islands offer some quaint sights, with ruins of a medieval Benedictine monastery, as well as some stunning beaches.

Accommodation is plentiful. It comes in various forms. There are upmarket hotels located in the capital and other big cities. The smaller towns and islands offer smaller hotels and there are also many guest houses that are run by families. The large hotels are priced highly and the guest houses reasonably.

Getting to Croatia could not be easier. Many flights from Europe and the UK arrive at Zagreb International Airport. A reliable train service from Slovenia, Yugoslavia, Italy, Germany, Austria, and Bosnia-Herzegovina also services Croatia for those who are travelling overland in Europe. You can catch a ferry from Greece and Italy to arrive at the coastal towns of Split and Dubrovnik.