With thousands of miles of seafront and more than a thousand islands, Croatia's coastline is the Riviera of Slavic Europe. Holiday makers love its pebbly beaches, balmy summer weather, and dramatic mountains. But there's history here as well: From ruined Roman arenas and Byzantine mosaics to Venetian bell towers, Habsburg villas, and even Yugoslav concrete, past rulers have left their mark. Most travelers flock to the Dalmatian Coast, where dramatic cliffs rise from the deep and islands are scattered just offshore. But savvy travelers make time for more: the Venetian-flavored Kvarner Gulf and Istrian Peninsula, the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes, and Zagreb, the nation's engaging capital.
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice is one of Europe's most spectacular natural wonders. Imagine Niagara Falls diced and sprinkled over a heavily forested Grand Canyon. There's nothing else like this lush valley of 16 terraced lakes, laced together by waterfalls and miles of pleasant plank walks. Countless cascades and water that's both strangely clear and full of vibrant colors make this park a misty natural wonderland. And Plitvice is blessedly compact — you can enjoy the best of its scenery in just a few hours.
Zagreb
Surprise: The landlocked Croatian capital is, quite possibly, the country's most underrated destination. In this land of time-passed coastal villages, Zagreb offers a welcome jolt of big-city sophistication. You can't get a complete picture of modern Croatia without a visit here — away from the touristy resorts, in the lively and livable city that is home to one out of every six Croatians. In Zagreb you'll find an almost Prague-like Old World streetscape, a thriving café culture, an impressive variety of good restaurants, my favorite urban people-watching in Croatia, the nation's best museums, and relatively few tourists.
Istria
Idyllic Istria, the wedge-shaped peninsula at Croatia's northwest corner, reveals itself gradually and seductively. Pungent truffles, Roman ruins, striking hill towns, quaint coastal villages, carefully cultivated food and wine, and breezy Italianate culture all compete for your attention.