Discovering Croatia's Biggest Cities: Zagreb and Split
It goes without saying that if you are a big fan of the TV series Game of Thrones, you’ll love exploring Croatia’s streets, many of which were featured in the show. As I haven’t watched the series myself, I’ll focus on what makes Croatia special beyond its TV fame.
First Things First: Plan Smart
Croatia is beautiful, but summer crowds can be overwhelming. High season runs from July through September, meaning accommodation prices skyrocket and tourist hotspots become packed. If you’re flexible with your travel dates, consider visiting in May or late September to save money and avoid the crowds.
Be mindful of tourist traps. Many restaurants hand tourists English menus with inflated prices. If possible, ask for the local menu or check reviews beforehand to avoid overpaying.
Split: The Largest Coastal City in Croatia
I lived in Split for a couple of months, and one of my favorite activities was simply walking around its charming streets. The narrow alleys and picturesque architecture make it hard not to stop every few seconds to snap a photo. Some bars are affordable and cozy, perfect for embracing the Croatian concept of Pomalo—“take it easy.”
Must-See Attractions
Diocletian's Palace: A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979, this ancient Roman palace is a must-visit.
Grgur Ninski Statue: Don’t forget to rub its shiny big toe for good luck—it’s a fun tradition!
Park Šuma Marjan: A green oasis perfect for hiking or relaxing. Head to Vidilica bar at the top for stunning panoramic views of Split.
Best Beaches
Plaža Ježinac: My favorite beach—quieter than others and just a pleasant walk from my apartment.
Plaža Bene: Great for families, with shaded areas and amenities.
Plaža Kašjuni: Beautiful but often overcrowded during peak season.
Bačvice Beach: Famous for its proximity to the city center but crowded and touristy. It’s popular among young families and nightlife enthusiasts due to nearby bars and clubs.
Zagreb: Croatia’s Capital in 24 Hours
Zagreb’s city center is compact, making it ideal for exploring on foot. I recommend joining a free walking tour—it lasts about two hours and provides fascinating insights into the city’s history.
Historical Highlights
Ban Jelačić Square: Locals simply call it “the square.” Named after Ban Jelačić, who became governor in 1848 during the revolution.
Lotrščak Tower Cannon: Since 1877, a cannon fires daily at noon to mark midday—a tradition that sets the clock for church bell ringers across the city.
Zagreb Cathedral: At 108 meters tall, it’s Croatia’s tallest building.
Unique Features
World’s Shortest Funicular: Only 66 meters long, this funicular has been operating since the 1890s as Zagreb’s first public transport.
Gas Lanterns: Zagreb is one of only three capitals (alongside Berlin and London) where gas lanterns are manually lit every evening—a charming tradition.
Food Recommendation
If you’re hungry after your tour, try Štrukli. This traditional dish consists of dough filled with cottage cheese and eggs; it can be boiled or baked. It’s delicious but not suitable for vegans.
A Glimpse into Croatia’s Recent History
Croatia has been a peaceful country since 1995, but its history is marked by conflict. In 1991, Banski Dvori (the presidential residence) was bombed in an attempt by Serbia to conquer Croatia. The president narrowly survived the attack.
Conclusion
Croatia offers much more than stunning beaches—it’s rich in history, culture, and unique traditions. Respect its streets, beaches, and citizens as you explore this beautiful country.
Have you visited Croatia? What was your experience like? Do you have favorite places or tips to share? Leave a comment below!
Please respectfully mention the blog if you share my pictures.
2 comments: