Croatia Highlights and Events

Travel in Croatia with Intrepid

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Croatia has recently piqued the interest of curious travellers searching for sunshine, sand and scenery. The chic cities of the glittering Adriatic coast, charming cobblestone towns, UNESCO World Heritage sites and thriving food and wine scene ensure visitors' curiosity is amply rewarded. Like many others, fall in love with the treasures of this Balkan beauty.
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Experience Croatia's highlights on these trips

Balkan Adventure

Traveller at the Royal Palace in Budapest
15 days
Original
  • USD $1,836
    CAD $1,736
    AUD $1,676
    EUR €1,240
    GBP £1,064
    NZD $2,148
    ZAR R13,892
    CHF FR1,516
    *
    Total price tool tip

Vienna to Dubrovnik

austria alps cow
29 days
Original
  • USD $4,300
    CAD $4,090
    AUD $3,950
    EUR €3,070
    GBP £2,505
    NZD $5,060
    ZAR R32,750
    CHF FR3,780
    *
    Total price tool tip

Budapest to Bled

Parliament building in Budapest
29 days
Original
  • USD $4,845
    CAD $4,610
    AUD $4,450
    EUR €3,465
    GBP £2,820
    NZD $5,700
    ZAR R36,895
    CHF FR4,265
    *
    Total price tool tip

Dubrovnik to Bled

croatia_rab-island_church_sea
15 days
Original
  • USD $2,930
    CAD $2,785
    AUD $2,690
    EUR €2,095
    GBP £1,705
    NZD $3,445
    ZAR R22,300
    CHF FR2,570
    *
    Total price tool tip
* Refer to booking conditions

Highlights


Festivals and Events

International Folklore Festival
  • International Folklore Festival

  • This important festival held in Zagreb each year helps to preserve cultural diversity by promoting traditional dance, costume, music and handicrafts from all over the world. Visitors can see everything from African drumming performances to traditional Croatian dancing and Bulgarian bands.
* Disclaimer

Intrepid has no control over changes made to festival and event dates and activities. Note that some Intrepid trips which include an event as part of their itinerary, may be surcharged. Where festivals or events are not included as part of an Intrepid trip, all costs associated with the event will need to be paid for by the client. Please check before booking your Intrepid trip that it does match up with key festival or event dates.

Croatia's Top Picks

Colourful Croatian buildings
 
Parts of the US presidential White House are built from Croatian limestone
 

Top 10 Historic Buildings of Croatia

  1. Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary: One of Zagreb’s most visited historic sites, this grand neo-Gothic cathedral has been renovated and reconstructed many times since it was originally built in the 13th century. With massive twin spires, a marble interior and 800-year-old treasury, this is a monumental masterpiece.
  2. Church of St Donatus: Considered one of the most impressive examples of early Byzantine architecture, this church in Zadar was built way back in the 9th century. With much historical value, its simplistic, circular design is quite unlike other buildings in Croatia, making it a standout, must-see church in a country with so many churches and cathedrals to see.
  3. Croatian National Theatre: Built in 1895, this national treasure located in Zagreb is an elegant example of neo-Baroque style architecture. Visitors lucky enough to catch an opera, ballet or classical music concert here will be able to revel in all the fine details, from the luxe furnishings to the excellent acoustics.
  4. Diocletian’s Palace: One of Split’s main attractions, this UNESCO World Heritage monument is considered one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world. The sprawling complex is home to many fine examples of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, so visitors will be able to admire open air courtyards, marble arches, columns, gates and walls from a variety of different periods.
  5. Cathedral of St Lovro: This cathedral located 30 minutes from Split is well known for its distinct Romanesque portal crafted by one of Croatia's most celebrated sculptors, Radovan. Mythological creatures and biblical figures all feature heavily, with saints, lions, sirens and centaurs all gracing the spectacular doorways.
  6. Rector’s Palace: Also known as Dubrovnik Museum, Rector’s Palace is an impressive building in itself. With soaring arches, period furniture and a dramatic staircase, this structure steals the show from the museum exhibits it holds within.
  7. Dubrovnik Synagogue: Reported to be the second oldest synagogue in Europe and the world’s oldest Sefardic synagogue still in use, Dubrovnik’s synagogue is still a place for the local Jewish community to worship on holy days. Sustaining damage from earthquakes and wars, this small but well cared for structure stills stands today due to its historical value and unique design.
  8. Marco Polo Tower: While not the most elaborate or opulent building in Croatia, the Marco Polo Tower of Korcula has much historical significance. It is believed that Marco Polo was born in this medieval, walled city and this tower named in his honour rises above the town as a reminder of his legacy. Climb to the top for phenomenal views and panoramic photo opportunities.
  9. Franciscan Monastery: Featuring 14th century cloisters, intricately carved columns and a striking, sculptured facade this Dubrovnik wonder is also home to the third oldest pharmacy in Europe, so you can get a prescription filled while seeing the sights.
  10. Trakoscan Castle: This lovely castle located in northern Croatia was inhabited from the 13th century right up until the 1940s. Featuring all good things a castle should have - including a dungeon, hunting room and tower - visiting here is like stepping back to a time where castles weren’t just historical monuments, but valid places to live.