Croatia

Tourism in Croatia is concentrated to the Adriatic coast during the summer months. Over the last 20 years, the country has really increased in popularity amongst British visitors thanks to it’s wonderful sunny climate, mix of beautiful cultural cities, picturesque ports, stunning nature and it’s hundreds of islands to discover. In fact, it would be unlikely, and a shame, you spend time in Croatia without getting out on the water at least once! Still unspoilt, Croatia is a destination you can still visit and feel like you’re seeing the real country rather than landing up in an overly commercialised tourist trap!

Croatia is a ‘long skinny’ country, benefiting by lots of beautiful coastline. Due to the geography, there are a number of different international airports serving the different regions.

• If you can afford the time, plan a twin or multi centre holiday to take in more than one area. Fly into one airport, out of another and include an island or two for a holiday with contrast. Allow us to handle the logistics of ferries and transfers getting on and off islands.
• Book a bed & breakfast rate and eat out! Mediterranean flavours, fresh fish and seafood, an Italian influence… think long lunches, grilled sardines, Aperol spritz, watching the world go by. It would be a shame to eat in a hotel restaurant every evening and miss out!
• Unless a Sandy beach is number one on your wish list, don’t rule out resorts without fine sand. Many great locations in Croatia lack sandy beaches but hotels here make up for this with ‘bathing decks’ and terraces besides the waters edge. You may notice local people sunbathing on a rock! Pack a yoga mat and water shoes and you’ll be ready to go!
• In Croatia, be sure to upgrade to a sea view room. You’ll thank me later!
• Pack your swimmers when you go out for the day! Even if you’re not expecting to swim, you never know what you’ll discover.

• I stayed in a small fishing town just outside of Dubrovnik and enjoyed being able to easily explore the city and surrounding area as well as having a quiet base nearby to return to. Best of both!
• Using the water buses to get around – cheap, easy and regular.
• Quirky little beach bars – hidden and rustic with gorgeous views.
• The scenery. Croatia is stunning, especially at sundown. The water is crystal clear.
• Taking a wander around a marina to admiring the super yachts! Croatia’s ports and marina’s are popular spots for super yachts. If you’ve watched ‘Below Deck’ on Netflix, you’ll know what to expect!
• Game of Thrones fans – note Dubrovnik was the setting for Kings Landing. Either join an organised tour or walk the city walls and find the ‘shame’ steps for yourself (see photos).

Summer season, end May – September.

There are plenty of flights to and from the UK including scheduled and low cost carriers. The flight time from London is just over 2 hours.