Guest writer Alisa Mura writes a wonderful article today for us on The Charming Gems of the Croatian Coast. We hope you enjoy this post as much as we did, and thanks to Alisa for contributing.
With a seemingly endless coastline coupled with great weather and cities rich in history, Croatia is fast becoming an ideal tourist destination.
Visitors are flocking to its shores as they seek to rediscover its charms. The coastline is teeming with beaches and clear blue water that is difficult to resist. Go inwards, and ancient architecture and a taste of cultural delights confront you. National parks are plentiful and draw in nature lovers who love to hike in peaceful environments. This beautiful country offers plenty of sports for adventure lovers to enjoy. While traveling in Croatia, here are some cities that you must visit.
Rovinj
Situated in the northwestern part of Croatia on the Istrian Peninsula, Rovinj is an enchanting port town that is rich in history. Rovinj is one of the Adriatic’s most beautiful port cities. Densely packed houses fill the old town and form a network of narrow streets. The most famous street is Grisia, where artists display their creativity in the outdoor art galleries. This road leads to the main landmark of the town, the Church of St. Euphemia. Roman occupation influenced the city’s architecture, delighting history buffs. There are other tourist attractions, such as the walls and gates that offered protection to the city. The city museum also provides a glimpse into the history of Rovinj.
Makarska
This city is located on the mainland coast of Croatia between Split and Dubrovnik. The rocky heights of Mountain Biokovo, back in the city, have proven to be an ideal place for hikers and mountain bikers. The Biokovo Nature Park, located along the slopes of the mountain, will surely satisfy the demands of nature lovers. The beaches in Makarska are rich with Pinewood trees, which, combined with the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea, create an impressive ambiance. The visitors get a chance to peddle boats, ride jet skis, and take part in other water sports. The city is full of restaurants and open-air markets where tourists have a chance to experience the local cuisine in the best possible way.
Šibenik
This city is located in the central part of the Croatian coast right where the Krka River joins the Mediterranean Sea. The bay makes it a beautiful harbor city. The Cathedral of St. James is the city’s landmark, which stands tall as an example of the magnificent architecture of its time. The St. Ane church is located on a hill in the town and offers the visitors a great view of the entire city. Built in the 16th century as a defense post for Sibenik, the Fort of Saint Nicholas is another must-see attraction. Other attractions include the city’s aquarium, Krka National Park, and numerous sandy beaches along with various water activities.
Trogir
Located 17km from the city of Split, this coastal city is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site due to its rich history. Its main attraction is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, which was built from the ground up in the 13th century. The Cipiko Place, home to the Trogir noble family in the 15th century, is another amazing sight to visit, especially for those interested in architectural wonders. The city walls and gates, often compared to those of Dubrovnik, are another historical attraction that offers protection to Trogir.
Porec
The city of Porec is located on the western side of the Istrian Peninsular. Its main attraction, and a UNESCO Heritage Site, is the Euphrasia’s Basilica. The centuries-old basilica offers the visitors a chance to marvel at its beauty. If you decide to climb its tower, you will be prized with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. The Bardine caves are located just about 6km inwards and offer a great adventurous locale for nature lovers. They descend into an underground lake that is full of endemic flora and fauna. Nearby island Sveti Nikola is a must-see place as well. This is particularly true for those seeking beautiful, secluded beaches and lush green environments. Despite its location 400 meters off the mainland, you can easily reach it with a local boat charter or by water taxi. Whichever option you choose, you will arrive in just a few minutes.
These cities are some of the gems that can be found on 5,835 km of Croatian coastline. This achievement is quite remarkable considering the small size of the country. If you decide to explore on your own, you’re bound to find more interesting places and locations to soak up the Mediterranean wonders of nature.
About the Author
As a graphic designer, I have a deep affinity for all things tech-related. I am a passionate traveler who is interested in learning about the culture and history of the places I visit. I am an enthusiastic hiker, an eco-activist, and occasionally, I aspire to be a writer.
