My Experience in Croatia
Croatia by land has long been on my travel wish list for some time now, and this spring, I finally made the trip — and it was everything I imagined and more. From the cultural charm of the cities to the breathtaking natural landscapes, each stop offered something unique. Here’s a quick look at the highlights from my unforgettable adventure:
Zagreb
I kicked off my trip in the capital city, Zagreb — a perfect blend of historic charm and urban energy. One of the standout moments was visiting the Cathedral of Zagreb, with its towering twin spires reaching into the sky. It’s a striking landmark that sets the tone for the city’s deep historical roots. Unfortunately, an earthquake has ruined the spires and they are in the process of restoring them..
Zagreb had some of the most beautiful landscaped gardens throughout the city. They have a contract that every 3-4 weeks the flowers in public places are replanted to ensure everything is in bloom. I also made a special stop at the Botanical Gardens. Flowers everywhere.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
From Zagreb, I took a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, and it quickly became one of the most magical places I’ve ever seen. Sixteen cascading lakes, connected by waterfalls and wooden pathways, created a dreamy, otherworldly landscape that felt straight out of a fairytale.
Split
Next, I headed south to the coastal city of Split. The highlight here was exploring Diocletian’s Palace, an incredible remnant of the Roman Empire that’s now seamlessly woven into the fabric of the city. Walking through its ancient walls, it was hard not to feel in awe of the history beneath my feet.
Hvar
From Split, I took the ferry to Hvar, a sun-drenched island known for its crystal-clear waters, lavender fields, and charming stone streets. One of the highlights of my stay was visiting Fortica Fortress (Španjola), perched high above Hvar Town. The panoramic views from the top were breathtaking — terracotta rooftops below, the shimmering Adriatic stretching to the horizon, and the Pakleni Islands scattered like jewels offshore.
I also took a sightseeing tour of Hvar Town, where I discovered the first public theatre in Europe, a remarkable cultural landmark nestled within the Arsenal building. The town itself was full of life, with elegant Venetian architecture, lively cafés, and a harbor that sparkled at sunset. Hvar was the perfect blend of history, scenery, and seaside charm.
Dubrovnik
I ended my journey in the majestic walled city of Dubrovnik. Among the many historic sites, the Franciscan Monastery stood out, home to a 14th-century pharmacy that is still in operation today. Wandering the old city’s marble streets felt like stepping back in time.
Croatia is also perfect for Game of Throne fans. Much of the series was filmed throughout Croatia. I had the best time recreating some of the iconic scenes from the series. Thanks Shannon for representing Daenerys and Cersei!
From medieval towns to natural wonders, Croatia dazzled me every step of the way. If you’re looking for a destination rich in culture, history, and beauty, Croatia should be at the top of your list.
