DK Travel - DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Croatia

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t Plitvice National Park, Kvarner Area

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t Dubrovniks famously charming Old Town, popular with Croatians and sight seers alike.

Sparkling waves lapping sultry, sun-drenched beaches. Crumbling castle walls shading cobbled city piazzas. Verdant vegetation fringing tranquil lakes and thundering waterfalls. Croatia has it all, and more. Whatever your dream trip to Croatia includes, this DK Eyewitness Travel Guide is the perfect companion.

Ancient mythology permeates Croatia, and nowhere more so than across the constellation of islands along Dalmatias coastline. Follow the course of Greek hero Odysseus and negotiate the Adriatic Sea, before taking a dip in Calypsos cave on mystical Mljet. Celebrate Mother Earth with every season in Croatia; cross the footbridges of photogenic Plitvice Lakes National Park in summer, cycle around Slavonias Kopaki Rit Nature Park and watch birds feed here in autumn, or build snowmen in Kvarners Risnjak National Park in winter. Youll need sustenance after your adventures. Try Pag cheese in Dalmatia, succulent scampi in Kvarner, and head to Istria for wine tastings.

Craving the bustle of a city? Youre spoiled for choice. Traverse the medieval walls of magnificent Dubrovnik, today recognised for their starring role in Game of Thrones. Make like an emperor and explore the Palace of Diocletian in ancient Split before unwinding in a bar in the citys labyrinthine streets. Follow in the footsteps of Roman gladiators at Pulas amphitheatre, which today hosts less gruesome film festivals. Inland, caf-hop around ultra-cool Zagreb before calling in at its unique museums, like the emotive Museum of Broken Relationships.

With so many regions and experiences on offer, Croatia can seem overwhelming. Weve broken the country down into easily navigable chapters, with detailed itineraries and comprehensive maps to help plan the perfect adventure. Add insider tips, and a Need To Know guide that lists all the essentials to be aware of before and during your trip, and youve got an indispensable guidebook. Enjoy the book, and enjoy Croatia.

Sailing at sunset in Brela, Central Dalmatia.

Pausing to tuck into Croatias delectable cuisine.

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Its coastline is stunning. Its a gourmets delight. Its soaked in history. Ask any Croatian and youll hear a different reason why they love Croatia. Here, we pick some of our favourites.

t is one of Europes most iconic cities, famous for its tightly wound warren of stone alleys. It can be evocative, romantic and inspirational whatever the season.

Discover Reasons to Love Croatia

t From the tumbling waterfalls of the , Croatias national parks are strong on heart-stopping natural beauty.

Discover Reasons to Love Croatia

Caf-cruising in Zagreb

t Coffee-drinking is the glue that keeps Croatian society together and nowhere is this more evident than in , where the pavement cafs are packed from morning till night.

Discover Reasons to Love Croatia

BEACHES

t Croatia has a staggering variety of beaches, from raw rock slabs to sandy bays and swathes of grey-gold pebble. Wherever you find yourself, the water is crystal-clear.

Discover Reasons to Love Croatia

PULA AMPHITHEATRE

t Once used for gladiatorial combat, this magnificently preserved 1st-century arena is nowadays used as a venue for live music and film . See the relic for yourself.

Discover Reasons to Love Croatia

THE ADRIATIC DIET