Croatia Is A Stunning European Destination

>> How to reach

From New Delhi you can fly to Zagreb, the capital or Dubrovnik.

New Delhi to Zagreb – You may check exact prices here

>>> Visa

Croatia is not part of the Schengen countries and therefore you can’t visit it on a regular single entry Schengen visa. However, if you have a multiple-entry Schengen visa, you can visit the country. You can apply for a visa to Croatia from VFS Global here.

The following is an itinerary to follow for your 9 day duration in Croatia

Croatia’s capital is an underrated destination waiting to be explored. It is not as popular as Dubrovnik or Split, but is a quintessential metropolitan city combining elegant 19th century buildings with plenty of cultural divisions and a vibrant cafe life. It is a great place to discover charming boutiques selling unique dresses, shopping for souvenirs, and tasting local delicacies. It is also a good place to visit undulating hills and charming villages nearby.

1. Start you day at the main city square and check out the Ban Josip Jelačić Statue and fountain.

2. Visit the Antiques and Flea Market on the Britanac Square and pick up cheap vintage accessories, books, clothes or pottery.

3. Visit the Museum of Illusions and the Museum of Broken Relationships, both unique and original museums that will test your perceptions about things.

4. Take the Funicular Railway to the Upper Town, and visit the Lotrscak Tower, where everyday at noon a cannon is fired to commemorate Zagreb’s victory over the Turks.

5. While still at the Upper Town, visit the Dolac Market, the best place to buy fresh fruits, local flowers and souvenirs.

6. For a fun night, visit Lemon Bar, in the centre of town or Katran, a club which has four dance floors.

Some tips

1. Use public transportation, it’s cheap and efficient. If you are stuck somewhere and don’t know how to go about using public transport, there is Uber and Cammeo Taxi that you can use.

2. Euro is not widely accepted in Croatia, so get it converted before you venture out.

On the morning of day 3, you can either take a short flight, about an hour-long, to Dubrovnik (one way will cost you around 75 Euros) or take a bus, that will take around nine hours, to Dubrovnik (one way will cost you around 30 Euros).

Day 3 to Day 7

Dubrovnik is a unique and bewitching coastal town that has become the crowning glory of Croatia in recent years. The city is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but also the place where parts of super popular TV show Game Of Thrones are shot. However, it’s not just a famous shooting location; Dubrovnik has much more to offer. It is a glittering jewel in the Adriatic Sea bordering Croatia and it holds the power to leave you asking for more. The city’s white limestone streets, buildings from the Baroque era and the shimmering Adriatic Sea will leave you mesmerised.

One can spend a week, a month or even a year here and not get tired of this city, but for those who are on a tight budget, dedicate at least three days to see this city.

What to see

1. Walk along the Old City, Dubrovnik’s best feature. It is the perfect place for a casual stroll to enjoy excellent views over the Adriatic Sea and the Old City centre.

2. Walk on Stradun Street, the most famous street within the Old City. It is lined with shopping stalls and cafes on both sides and a great place to grab a cup of coffee and just relax.

3. Don’t miss out on Walking The Walls, a great architectural site in the city, and also the place where Game Of Thrones is shot.

4. Take a cable car ride to Srđ Hill for the most amazing aerial views of the city.

5. Visit Fort Lovrijenac, dubbed as ‘Croatia’s Gibraltar’, and Croatia’s most prominent fortress.

6. Visit the beautiful Dominican and Franciscan monasteries.

7. Spend a day visiting the Elaphite Islands surrounding Dubrovnik.

8. Take a Game Of Thrones tour and visit all the spots where the show is shot.

On the morning of day 7, leave for Split. The best and easiest way to reach Split is by bus. It will take around five hours by road and cost around 22 Euros one way.

Day 8 and 9

What to see

1. Start your day by visiting Diocletian’s Palace, the ancient Roman ruin that was built-in 305 AD.

2. Cathedral of St. Domnius is recognised as the oldest cathedral in Croatia and one of the most well-preserved Roman buildings in Split. Visit this cathedral and then climb the bell tower for the most beautiful panoramic view of the city.

3. Visit the Riva Waterfront and promenade for some relaxing time and to pick up souvenirs. This is the place to try delicious ice creams and enjoy a hot cup of coffee while staring at jewelled waters.

4. Climb up the Marjan Hill for some amazing views of surrounding islands on one side and imposing mountains on the other.

5. After that tiring climb up and down the hill, relax at Bačvice Beach and spend the evening enjoying the sunset.

6. For a fun night out, check out Ghetto Bar, famous for its delicious cocktails or just chill at the Bačvice Beach shacks with a pint of beer or two.

Some tips

1. Almost every bar and coffee-house has free wi-fi. The passwords are generally written on the receipts, but if you don’t get one, ask the waiter and he/she will happily provide you with one.

2. Public transport is almost non-existent, but the cabs here are cheaper compared to the rest of the country, Uber being the cheapest option.