Croatia may share the Adriatic Sea with Italy, but it boasts beaches, waterfalls, medieval streets and turquoise seas that are unmatched. Below are reasons why our family travelers love seeing the “Blue Gem” of the Adriatic on our Croatia Multi-Sport Adventure, and why you can, too.
1. Croatia’s Geography is Diverse, Lush and Beautiful
Nearly 10% of Croatia is made up of natural parks and reserves, which contain some the most biodiverse landscapes found anywhere in the world. Zip-line over picturesque canyons and the beautiful Cetina River one day, then kayak to the caves and coves of Lokrum Island the next. Snorkel, swim or bask in the sun at some of the country’s 1,244 islands. That’s not to mention Krka National Park!
2. The Waterfalls at Krka National Park are Serene
Due to its position on the river Krka, Krka National Park is home to exceptionally rich and varied flora and fauna. It’s a tranquil place for a day of hiking. While you’re there, make sure to check out the stunning Skradinski buk waterfalls – between June and October, you can swim here!
3. You Can Play Picigin with Friends Across Borders
As part of our Friends Across Borders program, your children can meet up with locals for a game of picigin! In this casual game, players stand in shallow water and try to keep a ball bouncing in the air as long as possible. It’s like hackysack, but with hands, and you’ll get to play it on the very beach where it originated.
4. Dubrovnik is Iconic – and Familiar?
The gorgeous city of Dubrovnik is known for its medieval charm: limestone streets, towering walls and terra cotta roofing. It’s a fusion of Mediterranean-Balkan-European architecture, life and culture that no other country offers. When you visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, make sure to see Stradun, the main street of Dubrovnik. You might recognize it from a recent film your kids have probably seen. Is the force strong with you?
That’s Stradun, the main street in Dubrovnik!
Bonus points if you recognize the Dubrovnik scenery in “Game of Thrones.”
5. The City of Split is Historic
Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and home to Diocletian’s Palace. This sprawling complex was a retirement home for Roman Emperor Diocletian, built at the turn of the fourth century A.D. Egyptian sphinxes dating back over 3,500 years once decorated the massive chambers. Only three survive.
You can also see Split via bicycle, following a route almost entirely along the eastern shoreline and past idyllic bays, beaches and the hillside Mediterranean pine forest of Marjan.
Conclusion
The beauty of Croatia lies in its landscapes, its cities and its charm, all of which are exclusively Croatian. Kids love the castles, but everyone loves the scenery and the sports – swimming, snorkeling, kayaking and zip-lining. The best time to visit is between June to August, when the weather is pleasant, sunny and water activities are available.
