Of all the Mediterranean countries, Croatia is the one jewel you must experience to believe. Its pleasant climate makes it perfect for you to visit and indulge all your senses with all it has to offer. Among numerous places that will provide insight into the country’s rich heritage, here are some of the smaller sea towns you must see.
Rijeka
Rijeka is the third-largest city in the country, surrounded by the Rječina river. It is famous for the Rijeka Carnival, a very playful tradition taking place since 1982. If you are around before Lent, you will be fortunate enough to be a part of this amazing event. Trsat Castle represents a longstanding legacy, located on a high hill and 561 stairs away from the town center. It is worth the climbing. However, if you’re not thrilled about this feat, you need not worry, since there is a rent-a-car or a bus option to get you to the top. In case you get lost, City Tower will provide a good help with your orientation. The Natural History Museum is a fun, yet educational sight, since, among other items, it holds various species to be found in the Adriatic Sea. Restaurants and taverns with a laid-back atmosphere offer various local fish dishes, as well as some exotic specialties, most of them at a reasonable price. There are plenty bars and coffee shops are plenty, it is up to you to choose.
(Rijeka Korzo)
Pula
Pula is located at the very tip of the Istrian peninsula, and also the largest city in the region. Its magnificence may be best summed up in Arena, the longstanding Roman amphitheater, in great shape to this day, even though in past it was on the verge of destruction as most of its bricks were used pilfered for building the surrounding houses. Situated in its vicinity is Brijuni national park, a group of islands where Tito, the leader of former Yugoslavia, held his summer residence. It is also the home of a most prestigious film event, the annually held Pula Film Festival, taking place 18-25 Jul. Another token from the Roman times is the Forum, formerly an actual Roman forum, located at the very center of the town. You shouldn’t leave Pula without buying truffles, since they are one of the Istrian trademarks.
(A view of Pula Arena)
Zadar
Located in Northern Dalmatia, Zadar is very appealing for several reasons. Apart from the beauty of the sea itself, which is common to all the Croatian sea towns, there are some things you are not likely to encounter anywhere else. For example, there is the Sea Organ. Organ music is amazing in itself, really, but just imagine the system of organ pipes built in under the sea, and the mechanism based on the motion of the waves. This is an ethereal experience; indeed, one that you should by no means miss should you find yourself in Zadar. Another rarity is the Greeting to the Sun, a large 22m-diametre circle comprised of a number of glass plates, symbolizing the Sun. In Zadar, you will find the sailing experience at the highest level, especially in the early summer.
(Zadar)
Šibenik
Another city located in the Northern Dalmatia, Šibenik is generally less crowded and more serene than previous towns. Therefore it is a great option if you just wish to relax in a peaceful atmosphere. It is also a great option if you wish to take a closer look at the Krka National Park. The crucial sight to visit in Šibenik is St James’ Cathedral, which is featured on UNESCO World Heritage list. It is indeed unique, mostly because it is entirely built of stone without using any binding materials, and also because of the 72 human heads done in stone, incorporated in the walls. These belonged to anonymous individuals which sat as models as the structure was being built. As for the local food, if you are a gourmet, do taste the buzara sauce, which is very popular here.
(St Jacob's Cathedral in Šibenik)
Rovinj
Rovinj is another town in the Istrian peninsula. Since the peninsula used to be a part of Italy, it is only logical that the city has Venetian vibe to it, and that the population is bilingual for the better part, speaking Croatian and Italian. It is easy to get to the actual Venice by ferry. You are likely to come upon many artists in the Rovinj streets, and there is also Grisia, the artist’s street, often compared to Montmartre. There are small bays in the coastal area, featuring lush vegetation, which makes the location appealing to naturalists. You should take a look at the old town, and it would be best to do it on foot, due to its rocky terrain. As for the cuisine, you will be able to choose anything, from fish dishes, to pizza. Your nightlife won’t be neglected either, as there are numerous cafés, bars, and nightclubs to enjoy.
(Rovinj)
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