Croatia

Offering remarkably clear waters, dazzling white beaches, rolling farmland and picturesque mountains, Eastern Europe’s ‘Riviera’ will turn your Mediterranean dreams into a reality.

Regularly topping lists of ‘beautiful and affordable destinations’, many flock to Croatia’s extraordinary coastline for its island-studded ocean views. Perfect for sun lounging, you’ll find snorkelling and other water-based activities are equally world-class. The looming Dinaric Mountains add dramatic canyons, waterfalls and picturesque lakes to your vista, whilst the Plitvice Lakes National Park will thrill visitors with its views and easy-to-hike trails. The walled seaside town of Dubrovnik is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe – make sure you take a trip to the peak of Mount Srd by cable-car to see it in all its glory. For a more exciting urban experience, head to the bustling city of Split, complete with Roman Palaces, seaside promenades and a warren of narrow winding streets guaranteed to enthral and excite the curious traveller. Perhaps unfairly, Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb is often overlooked by those visiting the island, but deserves to be included in any itinerary for its distinguished Austro-Hungarian architecture alone.

Croatia is ideal for a Mediterranean getaway and offers a surprisingly picturesque alternative to Greece or Italy. Now firmly established as one of the top places to visit on the planet, is it time you took a chance on a trip to Croatia?