Discover Croatia

A group of refugees from Epidaurum (today’s Cavtat) founded Dubrovnik in the first half of the 7th century. The city was under the protection of the Byzantine Empire through the 12th century. From 1205-1358, Dubrovnik fell under the sovereignty of Venice. Dubrovnik ruled itself as a free state between the 14th century and 1808 as the Republic of Dubrovnik. It flourished in the 15th and 16th centuries and became the chief shipping rival to Venice. A devastating earthquake in 1667 killed over 5,000 citizens and marked the beginning of the decline for the Republic. The Republic officially met its final demise in 1808 after Napoleon’s armies conquered it and Marshal Marmont abolished the Republic and integrated it into the Illyrian provinces. Since 1808, Dubrovnik has fallen under attack, been occupied and annexed several times, most recently as part of the second Yugoslavia (1945-1991); however, it continues to be one of the most beautiful and fascinating cities on the entire Adriatic. With its medieval walls that surround the old city, and the ancient buildings contained within, Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site unlike any other.

The largest national park in Croatia is characterized by its 16 turquoise colored lakes inter-connected by a series of waterfalls. Its multiple trails in the woodland setting, which include steps, inclines, and wooden planks, also allows visitors to spot wildlife. The park is considered the country's top tourist attraction. Visitors unable to walk have an option of a shorter tour via shuttle.

Often nicknamed the "City of Vine and Wine", uncharted Ljubljana is a picturesque city well known for the Dragon Bridge, housing the world's oldest wooden wheel with an axel, and the Central Market. The most prominent sight is the Castle built on an old Roman stronghold with breathtaking views over the city.

Set in an Alpine backdrop, the lake adjoins the town of Bled. With a maximum depth of 100 ft, the lake is a mix of glacial and tectonic origins. Surrounding Bled Island, known for its pilgrimage church, Lake Bled is popular with rowers.

Located on the coast of the largest peninsula in the Adriatic, this harbour town's history was dominated by shipbuilding and monasteries. Once a favorite of the Austrian aristocracy, it was promoted as a health resort in the 19th century. Elegant promenades and parks weave their way between spacious villas and verdant public spaces.

Shared by Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy, the peninsula of Istria is situated in the Adriatic Sea. Attached to the western corner of Croatia, this area of land has been a tourist spot since ancient times. Frequented by Roman Emperors as well as the Habsburgs of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Istria is rich with history and diverse influences. Some caves in this area even hold remains from the Stone Age! Almost 90% of the landmass lies in Croatia, which the country calls Istria County.

Seafood is very popular in Istria, given its close proximity to the water. As a result of the peninsula possessing a long history, a lot of different cultures have left their marks on the area. One of the most prominent influences on Istria is Italy, which has definitely spread into the cuisine. Each section of Croatia practices their own culinary traditions, so what is eaten in Istria may not be found in Dalmatia. Enjoy the culinary delicacies of the Istrian Peninsula during dinner at a farm to table restaurant, where you’ll also be able to try regional wines!

Split is one of the oldest cities in the region and is known for Diocletian’s Palace, a famous ancient fortress. One of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Emperor Diocletian chose the palace to be his retirement home because of the incomparable beauty of Split.

Forming the center of Old Split, this unique imperial palace is extraordinarily well preserved from the 3-4 centuries A.D. Called the city's first resident, the Roman Emperor Diocletian built this structure as his retirement home in a location close to his birthplace and an important Roman center. Today, walking the labyrinth of streets means exploring the heart of the city.