Solo travel in the Mediterranean has been popular for as long as I can remember. Coastal Spain, Italy, and Greece attract hundreds of thousands of visitors a year, but as of late, a new destination has come into the public eye. Nestled along the stunning Adriatic coast, Croatia is a gem that has just begun to be discovered by American travelers. The best part? You can visit by land or by sea! Within the course of just a year, I visited this beautiful country on a guided tour and as part of a Mediterranean cruise. Here are my top five cities you simply have to see on your Croatia vacation.
1. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” encircled by ancient city walls that have witnessed centuries of history. In fact, its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the marble-paved town, where charming cafés and boutique shops line the streets. Don’t forget to visit the city walls, offering panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below.
Exploring Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage is a must, and you can do so by visiting the Rector’s Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, and the Sponza Palace. This magnificent city served as the backdrop for scenes in Game of Thrones, and it’s not difficult to imagine why! Even though it’s a grueling walk to the top, even for those who aren’t over 60, it’s really a must to get those postcard views!
2. Zadar
Dubrovnik has gained international acclaim over the past few years, but solo travelers should also make a stop in Zadar. Like Dubrovnik, Zadar has a stunning old town, complete with a labyrinth of winding streets, Roman ruins, and medieval churches. However, it isn’t a carbon copy of its more popular counterpart. The highlight of Zadar is the unique Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun installation, which create mesmerizing melodies and light displays as you stroll along the waterfront.
Don’t miss the Roman Forum, the St. Donatus Church, and the Archaeological Museum to delve deeper into Zadar’s rich history. And for a serene escape, visit the nearby Kornati Islands National Park, a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
3. Split
Next up is the city of Split, known for its blend of ancient and modern buildings. At its core lies the awe-inspiring Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to Roman times. I haven’t spent too much time in Split yet, but I look forward to adding it to my itinerary for future trips!
For me, the real gem of Split was the possibilities for day trips. Once you’ve had your fill of the city, consider trekking out to Krka National Park. The waterfalls here are out of a fairy tale, and views of the Visovac Monastery on its tiny island can’t be beat.
4. Zagreb
Zagreb may be a bit inland from the Mediterranean coast, but that doesn’t mean you should skip this capital city. Unlike the coastal cities, Zagreb offers a unique blend of Austro-Hungarian architecture and a lively, contemporary atmosphere. The Upper Town is historic with cobbled streets, picturesque squares, and iconic landmarks like St. Mark’s Church.
In the Lower Town, you’ll find modern cafes, museums, and the bustling Ban Jelačić Square, a hub of activity and a great place to soak up the local atmosphere. While in Zagreb, don’t miss the opportunity to savor traditional Croatian cuisine in cozy restaurants and sample local delicacies like štrukli and Zagreb schnitzel.
5. Opatija
Opatija, a gorgeous resort destination, is known for its marvelous architecture and lush parks that overlook the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic. Opatija’s promenade, the Lungomare, offers stunning seaside views and is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. It’s nearly seven miles of beauty! One of the highlights of my trip to Opatija was strolling from the oldest hotel in town to the charming fishing village of Volosko.
The town’s historical charm is reflected in its grand hotels, such as the Hotel Kvarner and Hotel Imperial, which have welcomed royalty and celebrities for over a century. During my visit, I stayed in the second oldest hotel in Croatia—I highly recommend it for the delicious buffet! For those seeking cultural experiences, Opatija hosts music festivals, art exhibitions, and lively events throughout the year. I can’t believe it’s not a major movie filming location!
Add Croatia to Your 2024 Travel Plans
Whether you’re planning a Mediterranean cruise or a trek across Eastern Europe, don’t skip Croatia! This over 60 travel destination has all the charm and history you expect from the region, as well as unique cuisine and comparatively affordable prices. As far as I’m concerned, Croatia is the new hot spot! Its hospitality industry surpasses the current most popular countries, and Croatian tour guides are much more enthusiastic than others I’ve traveled with in the Mediterranean. Don’t miss out on all the country has to offer! See more of my experiences in Croatia on Instagram @travelingblackwidow.