It was me, Croatia, not you.
I had been obsessed with visiting Croatia for a weirdly long time. Weird because it’s in Europe so it really shouldn’t have taken me so long to get there. But it did. The obsession started when I was maybe ten years old and visiting Prague with my family. One night the streets filled with sad drunken football fans and when I asked what all the commotion was about, my mom explained that the Czech football team had just lost to Croatia.
“Where’s Croatia?” I wondered.
Croatia. I liked the sound of it!
And just like that, suddenly Croatia was all I could think about. Yet somehow my family missed (ignored??) my hints that we had to go there, and then my travels kept taking me to silly, faraway from Croatia places like Asia instead.
So I’m sure you can imagine my excitement when I stepped off the train from Sofia, finally in Croatia!
Except, maybe you can’t, because it turns out my enthusiasm went from low to pretty much dead within my first few days in Croatia.
What happened??
I have four guesses.
1. Dan only spent a night in Zagreb and then flew back home to London, so I was left alone and lonely.
Nonsense! You guys know I love solo travel, plus I had been really looking forward to making Dan super jealous with my stories from Croatia when we reunited in Norway.
2. The hype around Croatia has grown a lot since I first started to daydream about visiting, and after hearing and reading so much about it from other travelers, I was sort of over Croatia before even going.
Am I really such a travel snob that I could dismiss a place just because it’s not still “undiscovered” or “off the beaten path?” Um, I’d rather not think about the answer to that question, but I will note that I probably should have ventured farther than Zagreb and Split.
I only had five days in Croatia, and as the cheapest flight to Norway left from Split, I decided to spend all my time there. One of my biggest qualms about Croatia was that there were SO many tourists and it felt a little too polished for my taste, but I’m pretty certain that if I had made it outside of the country’s party hub I wouldn’t have felt that way at all. Whoops.
3. I should have made Croatia the start of my Balkans tour, not the finish.
I’m certain that if I had visited Croatia before the other Balkan countries I would have adored it. Instead, I found myself constantly comparing Croatia to its neighbors. Yes, the food was good, but the food in Kosovo and Albania was better! Yes, people were friendly, but they were even more friendly in Serbia! And yes, the seaside was nice, but in Montenegro it was even nicer!
Was that fair of me? No. Because…
4. It was actually all about timing.
While buying our train ticket from Sofia to Belgrade, Dan and I were swept aside by a group of American teenagers rushing to book seats with their Eurorail passes on the train to Greece, which was leaving in five minutes. That night, we shared our sleeping compartment with a 19-year-old student from Canada who was on his first summer backpacking trip.
After five months of traveling during off-season, we had finally entered tourist season. So many people! And why were they all so young?
To say I missed the peace and quiet of nearly empty hostels where I felt that Dan and I were the only travelers around would be an understatement. I missed feeling special! And while I realize how immature that just sounded, I also felt like a total grandmother next to all the teens who had suddenly showed up.
When we planned a journey through Mongolia and Siberia in the dead of winter and a tour through Eastern Europe through April showers, I had thought Dan and I were a little insane. But now I realize that our timing couldn’t have been better. We avoided the crowds and higher prices, got to stand on a frozen Lake Baikal, and enjoyed warm, but not yet too hot days at the beach at the end of spring. It was pretty perfect.
Croatia, unfortunately, was less perfectly timed.
5. I fell asleep at the finish line.
I’ve never been good at final sprints – I’m more of a senior slide kind of girl. Like that time in university where I stayed up all night finishing a term paper, but then slept through my Russian exam the next morning.
With the end of a long journey in sight, I was too distracted by thoughts of my grandmother’s amazing cooking and lazy days in the Norwegian mountains to give Croatia the attention it deserved.
The lesson? I’ll simply have to give Croatia a second chance!
If you’ve been to Croatia, I would love to hear where I should visit next time I go!
Emma says
Your pictures make it look gorgeous! I haven’t been to Croatia yet, but it’s very high up my wish list – I’ll try to go to some more places at a quieter time, though!
Silvia says
Or at least visit some less popular spots if you do go in high season!
Drea says
It’s not just you. Croatians are much more reserved than the rest of the balkans. I had the same feeling when I went to Dubrovnik. I was so excited but when I got there it was swarming with tourists! It was beautiful and is a beautiful country. And I can say this as I have spent a lot of time in the Balkans and I am part Croatian too. But it could be spiced up a bit 🙂
Silvia says
I do have a feeling Croatia might just not be my favorite place in the Balkans, but then again, I only saw a couple of cities there!
Tatiana says
Maybe it really was just a bad timing. Croatia is lovely, but totally overcrowded in summer and to me, it’s the most touristy spot on the Balkans. Gets better if you make to one of the smaller islands!
Give it another chance in spring 🙂
Happy travels,
Tatiana
Silvia says
I definitely need to visit the islands next time!
Kelly says
Hmm interesting! I’ve been obsessed with Croatia for a while too. Some of our family friends moved there for a job when I was around 9 or 10, and I was amazed with the stories they told about it. It sounded SO foreign! Now, I obviously know much more about it and I know many people who have been, so I can see how some of the magic could be lost when it’s swamped with tourists.
Silvia says
Yeah, at least in the tourist centers I wasn’t feeling much magic…
Rachel says
Timing! I know what you mean, that’ll be it! I’m an out of season traveller and I love it! However, last week I found myself in Ireland in the height of the summer holidays, the Giant’s Causeway: meh! No, it’s an incredible geological wonder but when it’s swarming with tourists it quickly looses its awe. what a shock to the system! Yup, I’m a frightful travel snob 😉
Croatia sure looks pretty, especially in your photos. I’ve no immediate plans but you never know.
Silvia says
It’s really crazy how simply the timing of visiting a place can have such a huge impact on how much we like it!
Catherine says
I was in Croatia last August and I agree that it’s super crowded at that time of year. That being said, we ventured a little farther off the beaten path to Pula (Roman ruins and a quick day trip to Venice) and Daruvar (for the toplice) as well as Split and Dubrovnik. In Dubrovnik we spent several lovely days at the beach on Lopud Island and sea kayaking around Kolocep Island. I’d definitely return, although perhaps not in August!
Silvia says
I would love to check out all of those places! Though perhaps in the spring, ha.
Nick says
Of all the former Yugoslav nations, Croatia interests me the least (except for Hvar…) – I think it’s that almost hipster-y notion that it’s already been discovered that you mention. Though I hate to think of myself as that guy…
Silvia says
If you’re big enough to admit to being that guy, I should probably accept that I’m that girl.
Vanessa @ The Travelling Colognian says
Your photos of Croatia are beautiful, Silvia, but I can totally imagine how you feel. I felt similar twice within the last two years. The first time was when arriving in Bangkok after three weeks travelling across Eastern China. Although Eastern China doesn’t really mean travelling off the beaten path our amazing tour leader managed to guide us away from the western tour groups at least in most places and gave us a fantastic insight into the “real China”, the local food and culture. So it felt strange and being in the wrong place when in Bangkok. Fortunately I have been there again with my boyfriend last December and enjoyed it as much as during all my previous visits.
And it also felt quite strange when returning to Beijing after travelling overland from Beijing to Kashgar in the off season last October. Although it was crispy cold especially in the Tian Shan Mountains but also in all other places in the morning and at night, it was the best time to go due to clear blue sky and unlimited views. But despite feeling strange when being back in Beijing I enjoyed the comfort of a well heated hotel room and a good infrastructure.
Silvia says
It’s funny how just the timing and order of seeing places can really change our perspective on it. I’m glad you got to return to Bangkok and see it in a better light!
Deepti @ Endless Postcards says
Next summer I’m going to be that teenager visiting Croatia during peak season! Your pictures look beautiful. I hope your next visit is better!
Silvia says
Haha and I’ll be that twenty-something who’s totally jealous of your youth! I’m sure you’ll enjoy Croatia more than I did – at least I hope so 🙂
Kaelene @Unlocking Kiki says
We did two weeks in Croatia with Split being our last stop, and it was easily my least favorite stop. I loved our time on the island Korcula, a must visit for sure!
Silvia says
I’ll have to check it out! It’s good to hear that there’s more to Croatia than Split 🙂
Justine says
Croatia is one of those countries I’ve dreamed about visiting for well over a decade. I swear someday I’ll go back to Europe. I’m sorry to hear that it was a bit of a letdown. That always seems to happen to me when my expectations are high 🙁 But it’s so true that timing is everything. Perhaps you’ll be charmed by it next time you visit!
Silvia says
It’s definitely tough visiting a place that you’ve built up so much – I’m determined to return and like it more!
Erika says
i went to Croatia a few years ago in May and had a pretty good time! I ended up going to Plivitce (sp?), with all the waterfalls, and that was awesome. I also couchsurfed with a friend there and we had an excellent host who took us to some great local spots in Zagreb. And also, Zagreb had some of my all time favorite museums — and I’m not typically a museum girl. I think maybe your disappoint is due to timing — or maybe it was expectations — or both? I have to say I went into it not really knowing anything and was pleasantly surprised. But then again, I do have to say that of all the places in Eastern Europe that I visited, I do tend to forget about Croatia sometimes so there’s that too! 🙂 Sorry it was such a letdown for you! Bummer.
Silvia says
Plivitce was SO crowded when my bus drove past – I thought we had arrived at a theme park or something – so I guess next time I’ll have to go in the spring! I’m not a museum girl either, but you’ve intrigued me with Zagreb’s museums!
Ann Bird Hannigan says
September is a great time to visit… All the families with kids are gone and it’s much quieter.
Ariel says
I was just in Croatia for about 3 weeks in total. I loved it. I stayed mostly at hostels that boasted great tours and was blown away by them. The tours I went on were often to places that were less touristy and I learned a ton from the locals there. I also spent a week on one of the smaller islands hat did not boast much to do and it was a perfect place to relax in the middle of my travels and take a much needed break filled with me time. I did not get a chance to make it to Zagreb but would love to go back and see it one day.
Give it another chance for sure! It is a lovely place with lovely people!
Silvia says
I think I definitely need to visit the islands!
Inge von Roos says
I know exactly how you felt. I was in Barcelona last year and it was wall to wall tourists the week before Easter. I missed some of the main sites because of that. I think you should go back and go to Dubrovnic and also go to Montenegro.
Silvia says
I LOVED Montenegro and definitely want to go back!
Amy says
Croatia is one of my favorite countries! Maybe also because of timing — it was my first Balkan country and I headed there after breaking up with my boyfriend and moving from Michigan to Florida. But still, I found it breath-taking and romantic. I think, even if you didn’t enjoy it, your pictures do a great job of showing a beautiful country!
Zagreb didn’t impress me, but Split was one of my favorite places. I just thought it was so cool that there was a medieval city built inside Roman palace walls! We also hit smaller cities like Trogir and Zadar, as well as the famous Plitvice Lakes. Dubrovnik was also lovely — but each place was fairly packed with tourists. While the cities are lovely, I’m not sure there really is enough physical space for all the tourists that come through Croatia during peak season. I’d definitely suggest giving it another try come the low season.
Silvia says
Yeah, I think returning in the low season is the answer for me!
becky hutner says
I don’t know what it is about Croatia…so many people over the years have implored me to visit but I can never must up any enthusiasm for the place. It looks absolutely beautiful in photos but maybe I’ve been put off by a sneaking suspicion of some of the things you mentioned — touristy, too polished. who knows what draws us to one place and not another?
Silvia says
It is a bit of a mystery! I feel like you might be a bit more of a Kosovo/Albania girl 🙂
Allison says
I felt the same about Croatia! Ever since visiting Istanbul last year, I had been obsessed with Croatia after hearing about it from other backpackers.
I personally didn’t enjoy it that much. It was really crowded, and expensive compared to its neighbors. I’m more of an “off the beaten path” kind of girl, and Croatia was just super overwhelming for me after spending two weeks in Slovenia. It was beautiful though, especially Hvar!
Silvia says
Croatia really is so overwhelming – maybe it’s just not really for me!
Pamela Perkins says
I’m so sorry. Here’s my reaction to your disappointing trip. You went during the tourist season and to the most touristy spots, and it sounds like you were doing the most touristy things. Here’s my blog about Croatia which might give you a different perspective. Consider going back and doing something off the beaten track. Signed Pam (aka) Biker Chick Gone Crazy
http://pamsmississippiride.blogspot.com/2015/06/knock-your-socks-off.html
Silvia says
Thanks for the tips!
Ashley says
I was always obsessed with the idea of visiting Croatia, until I started reading more about the other Balkan countries, and now it’s the country I least want to visit in the region. Montenegro, Bosnia, Albania and Macedonia are now at the top of my list, especially after reading many of your posts from these countries! Maybe I’m a bit of a travel snob as well, because I find the less popular Balkan countries appeal to me much more!
Silvia says
Those are my favorite Balkan countries! Plus Kosovo 🙂 Haha I’m glad I’m not the only snob.
Dean says
lol. Kosovo? Are you kidding me? .Croatia is much nicer than all neighbouring countries….it’s really a paradise compared to that countries. Thats why is much more visited by tourists.
Jason says
I love Croatia. Well, my parents are from there and I visit regularly so I may be biased but like your motto says, travel off the beaten path. There’s more to Croatia than split and Dubrovnik. To think of it, they’re my two, least favourite places in Croatia. You need to see the rest of Croatia! Head to slavonia-region in the east of Croatia where nature, food and good alcohol triumph. Head to istria and their surrounding islands like krk and lošinj- there less touristy to an extent.
Zagreb is a favourite of mine. Cheap, affordable and beautiful. Head north past Zagreb to Varaždin. Cultural hub of Croatia and here, tourists are frequent but they’re not like the ones on the coast.
Don’t be turned off Croatia because of your recent trip. I challenge you to revisit but go to the less discovered places. There’s more to Croatia than beaches and islands.
Silvia says
It’s nice to hear that Split is one of your least favorite places – I was worried after hearing that so many people loved it! I’ll have to check out Varazdin and the islands. Thanks for the tips!
Zvonimir says
I am very sorry to hear that the timing was bad. However, I am glad you are giving it a second chance. My suggestions could go and go and there are so many places to visit and see. Depending on how much time you have I would suggest this itinerary:
Land in Zagreb and start from there! While in Zagreb visit Zagorje county (Castle Trakoscan, Veliki Tabor Castle, and Neandertal man museum)
After Zagreb go to Istrian Peninsula – Visit Pula/Poreč and National Park Brijuni
Go to Zadar and go to Kornati islands (National Park as well)
After go to Split and take a ferry to islands Korčula and Hvar (MUST SEE ISLANDS)
After finish your trip in Dubrovnik
Nice itinerary, pretty basic but depending on how much time you have it should change your perspective of Croatia 😉
If you have any questions let me know I can help. My email is z.androic@via-croatia.com
Silvia says
Thanks for the itinerary – I hope I’ll get the chance someday to visit all the places!
Camille says
It’s probably a combination of 2, 3 and 4 – I do want to see Croatia, but I think I would only go off-season (in the autumn). Like you, I have become more excited about other countries in the region… but still, I can’t deny those pictures make it look very appealing!
Silvia says
Yeah, I think I would have loved Croatia on its own, but I was just crazier about the other Balkan countries!
Tea says
you have to give it another chance! Split (and whole of coast) an July/August are not the right place and time to fall in love with the country!
Silvia says
I was actually there in June, but next time I will go even earlier, for sure!
Heather @ Ferreting Out the Fun says
I was nervous to read this as I’m currently planning my first trip to Croatia, but I think (hope) our experiences will be quite different. I’ll be renting a car and driving the length of the country in the off season. In Europe, timing can make a huge difference! I made the recent mistake of visiting Berlin in July and did not enjoy myself in the least. There was just way too many people and much too little a/c!
Silvia says
It really is amazing how important timing can be – and such a shame that we can have a bad experience based on it! It sounds like you’ll have a much better time in Croatia though.
jennifer says
I went to Croatia on my first backpacking trip (I have only been on four, this first one was three weeks) and I was incredibly excited because it sounded so exotic to me. Look at MEEEEEEEEE I am going to CROATIA! As someone who never traveled while growing up, going to CROATIA ON MY GOD I AM GOING TO CROATIA! was so exciting.
Zagreb was so boring. It had the novelty (for me) of walking around and having it be clear I am in a foreign country. But other than that, no. I also went to Plitvice and that was fantastic.
Christina - CavaforLunch.com says
Croatia really looks beautiful, but I must admit that all the hype scares me a wee bit. I’m a bit worried it will be super touristy, you know. But lovely pictures!
Silvia says
Yeah, it was a bit too much hype for me as well. But still pretty!
Silvia says
Haha it’s so sad when that happens. At least the lakes were wonderful!
Caroline L. says
I just spent three weeks in Croatia as part of a seminar on the history of Southeastern Europe and LOVED my time there largely because 1) I think the more time you spend somewhere, the more you fall in love, 2) we were with professors from the area so it was helpful language-wise and context-wise, especially after all of our history lectures, 3) we got to talk to many of the locals as part of our final project, and that was so special. With that said, our time was spent 98% in Dubrovnik which is why it has such a special place in my heart. Split was definitely very underwhelming for me, as was Korcula even though it had the most spectacular water. We also went to Sarajevo and Mostar for a couple of days and I found myself falling head-over-feels for Bosnia, so I can imagine other Balkan countries being just as compelling!! I definitely think going to Croatia in low season is key – our guides suggested Sept-Oct, or April-May even 🙂
Sanura says
I wish your experience was better but your images are gorgeous! I’ve never been to Croatia but it’s definitely on my “To go…” list based on what friends of mine have said about their experiences there. I pray that it’s all I imagine it to be!
Silvia says
It certainly is beautiful!
Becka says
Such a shame you didn’t enjoy it as your pictures make it look beautiful! Croatia is definitely somewhere I’d like to visit but maybe I’ll try to spend a bit longer there so I can visit a few more places. X
Silvia says
I think staying longer will definitely help 🙂
Anca | Globaloud says
Even though I am Croatian that actually lives in Split (2 minutes from the last photo) I can totally get your point. First of all you really missed the good spots which doesn’t mean Split is a bad one, it’s my hometown and for me one of the most beautiful places in the World, but the hype around Split over the past 3 years is unbearable. There are tons of tourists every day, all of the apartments around mine became hostels or rental apartments, food prices in the Palace are 3 times regular prices in the city, there are way too many walking tours and locals are just trying to avoid anything around center from June to September so as a tourist you just have a chance to meet other tourists instead of getting to know more about the local culture. But still, I do really enjoy it there any other month of the year, not to mention how many beautiful, secluded places and beaches are all over the islands. But the thing is – you need to research a bit more to find those places or you really need to get in touch with some locals – but trust me, there is no way you won’t like Croatia once you discover the other part of it. Too bad that before this tourism boom it used to be like that in almost every city all over the country, especially on the coast.
Dani says
Hi Silvia, I live in Australia and have now been to Croatia three times as I absolutely fell in love with it on my first trip. I just found that for a small country it has so much to see and do and so many different regions. I found out the country has seven national parks which cover approximately a quarter of the country. It also has seven UNESCO sites and with China the highest number of traditions etc on the UNESCO Lists of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
What dissapoints me somewhat is that you have practically traveled to one location on the coast and branded the whole country from this experience. Split until a few years ago was more a transit city for one of the many gorgeous islands. It too has a beautiful old town which has really got to be experienced but its more a living city rather than a quaint town or village where you get that old typical Croatian charm. You mentioned you loved Kotor and the sea was better in Montenegro. Croatia has 1200 island and most are further North of Split and the water (aside from the Port of Split) is amongst the clearest in the world only second to Cyprus. You needed to travel down the coast from Split as it is universally known as the best roadtrip in the world. Places like Makarska have a similar feel to Montenegro and Dubrovnik is an absolute pearl.
Regions like Istria also have a completely different dimension and the people are different also and more hospitable. Croatia has so much to see and do you really need to spend three weeks here to take it in . I know everyone has different taste and yes Croatia has more glitz and glamour than other parts of the balkans so if your more a nomadic type traveler it may not be as appealing as the more underdeveloped cheaper places. Croatia is more the French Riviera of the Adriatic but in my opinion has a lot more old world charm not yet affected by mass tourism construction.
Please google places like Varazdin, Mali Losinj, Cres, Rovinj , Opatilja, Sibenik and Krka falls, Zadar, Istria, Murter, Varazdin and Rastoke. These are all lesser known places and absulute gems.
Im not sure if you went to Plitvice lakes or just drove but from an Aussie who has seen half the world probably the most beautiful waterfalls and national park in the world.
But the island os the coast of Split ie Hvar( visit Hvar town and Stari Grad town), Brac(towns of Bol & Pucisca), Korcula(towns of Korcula & Vela Luka) and my favourite VIS ( see Vis town and Komiza town, but Stiniva Cova and the Blue Grotto are must day trips.
One you have seen at least a third of these places are you in a position to have a strong opinion about Croatia. Otherwise it would be like going to Vegas and making your whole opinion of the US based on this.
Silvia says
Wow, thank you for your comment, Dani, I really appreciate you taking so much time to write so much! I do think you might have misunderstood the intention of this post a bit though. A lot of people will write off a place after barely giving it a chance, but that’s exactly what I’m trying NOT to do here. I ask why Croatia was so boring to me, but the answer to that question is that it was my fault, not Croatia’s. Which is why I wrote that one of my biggest problems was only visiting Split, which is not the sort of city that would most appeal to me anyway, and also why I ended the post saying that I definitely need to return to the country to give it a second chance. I have heard so many amazing things about Istria, and hugely appreciate your other recommendations as well. I’m going to see if I can plan a trip there next autumn, if I can get the time off. Fingers crossed!
Dani says
Apologies if I misunderstood your post. Having now read your more of your post I think I have more an idea of the type of travel you enjoy.
I would highly recommend visiting Croatia in the first two weeks of July as holiday season starts about the 15-17 July thus you get all the non coastal people of Croatia & Europe coming for their annual retreats on top of the annual visitors. The first two weeks of July is before the wave of tourists and the water has warmed up thus you can enjoy the beautiful waters.
My recomendation would be visit Istria, staying at Rovinj with day trips to the hinterland. Places like Groznjan, Motovun & Vodnjan and coastal towns like Porec & Pula.
Secondly I highly recommend the islands off Split. I believe your favorite would be the island of VIS. Stay in Vis town or Komiza and make it a must to go to Stiniva Cove beach and the Blue Cave on Bisevo island by day trip- an absolute must. Also try and visit a second island ie Brac and the golden horn beach in the town of Bol and also the town of Pucisca mentioned in Adventurous Kates travel blog. Also one of my favourite.
Dubrovnik is a must however have gathered you like smaller towns rather than the big tourist Gems. I would stay in the neighbouring town twenty mins away called Cavtat- absolutely stunning.
The Plitvice Lakes is also must and the hidden secret town of Rastoke (built on waterfalls) however on the coast there is another park smaller and not as busy as Plitvice but also amazing called Krka falls. Here you could stay stay in nearby beautiful Sibenik or the beautiful island of Murter which is part of the Kornati archipelago the densest group of islands in Croatia although Murter is probably better during peak tourist season as the island comes alive but at the same tome is not overridden with tourist.
An absolute gem is also the island of Mali Losinj. In all there is too much in Croatia. The best thing to do is hire a camper van and do a road trip along the coast and stay at the may camping parks around the country for which Croatia is well known. Google camping holidays for a list of parks all over the country. They are everywhere and more often than not in the prime real estate type locations.
Happy travels
Silvia says
Thank you so much for all of these suggestions! I’ll absolutely be returning to your comment when I next plan my next trip to Croatia, so thank you.
Miriam says
Hi. Am I replying to Dani?
Loved your suggestions since I am the type of traveler that doesn’t particularly care for crowded touristy places although if I have unlimited vacation time, I would visit them . Since my vacation is limited to 10 to 14 days ( excluding the air travel time ) I much rather get a feel of the real country and it’s people culture as you described. I have realistically 12 to 13 days once I arrive there from Florida in USA. Planning first 2 weeks of September 2018 . Can you suggest an itinerary to follow which would include the islands, water falls, small towns , mountains . We like to bike , snorkel , short hikes, eat in family owned restaurants , kayak , explore towns , view wild life and of yes indulge once in a while in nice accommodations and restaurants if worth the money.
Aster says
Hi,
if you like the mountains, why you ran to the beaches and to all of the mainstream locations? We have amazing mountains, and less full places as well, so maybe ask some local advice next time. Everybody here keeps mentioning the same places, while there are many more, not so known. It’s not all about timing though, but planning too. Why go to the most famous locations during the peak of the season? Go hiking or kayaking. Places you will see are not in many brochures, but they will leave a much better impression.
Laura says
I totally agree! I visited Croatia in September and was disappointed. It’s beautiful, but it has been ruined by tourism, so I found it extremely touristy, overpriced and inauthentic.
Silvia says
Yeah, I definitely prefer other areas of the Balkans.
Darren says
So, what would be your favorite spots in the Balkans as an alternative to Croatia. Thinking about a trip next year. Where would you focus?
Adriana Kupresak says
Ohh this made a me kind of sad! I hope you return to my beautiful country Croatia so that you can experience it’s true magic, I am here in Zagreb if you ever need a tour guide 🙂
Silvia says
Hopefully I can return again and see more!
Nat says
I think you definitely need to give Croatia another chance and include some islands and towns like Zadar, Dubrovnik…in your itinerary.
cris says
sorry but zagreb and croatia is one of the worst countries i have ever visited…im sorry i was ever there.. do not prefer for anyone for sure
they have high prices accorindg to euro
they serve no good food and even they do it takes 2 hours and you send it back to be cooked more
men look at your women like they have never seen another
bunch war survivors gathered along..thats all
Christabel says
First trip to Croatia in 2 days and im excited! First trip to Europe and have read the very helpful itinerary suggestions! hopefully June is a great time to go. Thanks for the post.
flavio ferreira says
great
Francisca says
Hi, I can see why you felt the way you did while in Croatia. However, I’d recommend visiting the islands around Split. Because of the fame that it has gathered over the past few years, Croatia is always crowded and personally I dont like that. But you’ll see if you go to the islands, that its a complete other story, a more traditional one. And I think that is what its worth visiting while in another country xx
Croatia says
Zagreb is wonderful i hope the next time you come in Croatia Go hiking or kayaking
Antzela Funel says
I totally agree! I visited Croatia in September and was disappointed.
Imperial Dubrovnik says
I totally agree! I visited Croatia in September and was disappointed.
Eve says
I hate to say this but I’ve been feeling the same way.. I’ve been to Rovinj, Pula, Zadar, Sebinik, Trojir, and Split so far… and all of them feel the same.. same buildings, same food, same shops.. all super beautiful… but the same.. I feel like it needs to be said as I feel like Croatia may not be backpack-able. I’m a well-seasoned traveler and this is the first time I’ve really felt like this
maja says
Dear Silvia
Thank you for mentioning Serbia in the text, as I am serbian and it is nice to read sometimes something positive about my country, for a change…
But..sorry for saying this…you are from Norway !!!! Are you sure you are entitled to criticize any other country for boredom !!???!!
Gee says
🙂
Alex says
Hey! Sad you had a less than ideal time in Croatia. I just got back from a two week road trip and I definitely think you should go back and try for some other areas (like lots of the other comments have said). I’d absolutely recommend Istria and the Kvarner Coast (Cres and Losinj) for something that feels way less touristy and more authentic. And, if you go in May/shoulder seasons, there are hardly any other visitors and it’s so so lovely. Linked is a post about the Istria portion of our road trip if you are interested!
https://wanderwego.com/home/istria-croatia
Huda says
Hvar, Hvar, Hvar I feel like that is the only place worth visiting in Croatia,I spent 5 days there and wish I spent the whole trip there. Currently in Dubrovnik and spent day 2 watching Netflix and have 2 more days to go, wish I extended in Hvar and only came here for a night
Gee says
Wow, what a clueless, sorry sap of a post to come across. Please, more people like you and your readers! Croatia can’t handle the influx of Brits and Americanos. Thankfully the congregation is mostly on Hvar, in Dubrovnik and Split. Easy enough places to avoid.
Denys says
Mljet island (the central part, not NP) is a good peaceful place with old forsaken olive gardens, nobody’s fig trees, totally empty bays (if you happen to find a way down to one), a forest from Annihilation movie, wild goats, cave crickets and butterflies. Just don’t expect sandy beaches or restaurants – there are rocks, sea urchins and small supermarkets instead.
Richard says
I am really sorry for your experience, but at the same time I am not. You looked for and got what you knew in Croatia, but you didn’t look for what a person really wants. I have seen, travelled and experienced a lot in my more than 40 years, and I have stayed in Croatia and even lived here for 3 years. In a place by the sea, where when you come in you think what masses. I chose this place only because when you go to the other side of the island, you experience the biggest opposite of what you have seen as a standard tourist. Remember, change your perspective, you change everything.
Your experience is shared by many, especially those people who don’t know that certain something and different. Croatia is something you have to experience, explore – don’t be taken to the spots where others are, but take a few steps further and you’ll see the difference that I hadn’t found even in the neighbouring countries.