How up are you on your geography? According to Google, tons of people search “Where is Croatia?” Undoubtedly, that question is asked frequently because Croatia is a trending travel destination but apparently lots of people don’t know exactly where it is. Maybe you heard about a friend of a friend who went there in the past or a colleague who is planning a trip there soon. So you, too, Googled “Where is Croatia” to find out what all the fuss is about. We’re glad you landed here so Travel Maestro can fill you in.

Where is Croatia?

Croatia is in Europe. You can argue that it lies on the western edge of eastern Europe or in the southeastern part of central Europe, depending on cultural, geopolitical, or geographical perspectives. It enjoys over 1,000 miles of coastline on the Adriatic Sea, directly across from the “calf” of Italy’s boot. Over a thousand islands sit along that coast. They range in size from large enough for its own airport (Brač) to tiny bare chunks of rock.

Croatia shares a border with five countries – Hungary to the northeast, as well as four countries that were part of the former Yugoslavia: Slovenia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro.

Why Visit Croatia?

In short, Croatia is safe and sunny with spectacular scenery. Like any destination that becomes popular, it’s no longer the bargain it once was but is still a good value. There is a solid infrastructure with luxury hotels and deluxe resorts, good highways, and dependable trains and ferries. A traveler’s bonus is reliable internet service in most places.

English is widely spoken and the people are friendly and engaging. The country has a rich history and cultural heritage, complemented by beautiful nature and scenery. You’ll also find authentic experiences, a diverse food and wine scene, and a good healthcare system, all highly sought by vacationers.

Croatia boasts multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Old City of Dubrovnik is arguably the most famous and draws multitudes of travelers every year. Walking atop the medieval city walls or riding the cable car up Mount Srd provides breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Travel Maestro tip: To avoid heavy crowds, visit Dubrovnik’s old town in the early evening and walk the city walls just before closing at 7:00 pm.

In Split, the fourth-century Diocletian Palace is some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in eastern Europe. The rambling palace maze is the living heart of downtown. Local shops and businesses operate within the ruins right next to remnants of huge ancient columns. Just outside the palace gates, you’ll find a lovely palm-lined oceanfront promenade reminiscent of the French Riviera. Travel Maestro tip: Split, Klis, Zrnovnica and Baska Voda were filming sites for Game of Thrones Season 4. King’s Landing is Dubrovnik.

Travelers looking for active adventure will find plenty of outdoor pursuits in Croatia’s eight national parks. Plitvice Lakes, another World Heritage Site, is a national treasure and one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe. Walk paths and wooden bridges among 16 aquamarine and sapphire-hued lakes connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush forested mountains.

From May to October, plenty of sunshine makes swimming and sunbathing the main attraction at the many beaches of Croatia. Crystal clear waters and extensive reef formations make it a prime diving destination. You can hire yachts or sailboats, with or without a skipper to sail among the islands and inlets of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. Travel Maestro tip: Shoulder season months of May, June, September, and October are ideal for water sports because the weather is great but the crowds are low.

So now that you know where this gem of a country is and what you can see there, aren’t you ready to visit yourself? Don’t be the last one you know to experience the wonders of Croatia. Contact a Covington vacation advisor today and Let Us Take You There.