Croatia for the Second Time

Upon first visit to Croatia, most travelers hit the country’s hot spots, such as Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. While those cities are the top of every list for a reason, Croatia is filled with gorgeous towns well worth touring on a second visit. Here are some of the spots that second-time travelers to Croatia will certainly want to make a stop in.

The island of Korčula is towards the southern tip of Croatia and is overflowing with natural beauty. The island is best known for its wine, and has varieties that cannot be found anywhere else. Taking a bike and wine tour is a fantastic way to enjoy the island, winding through the gorgeous vineyards while being able to look out over the cliffs and to the ocean waves below. Stroll through the old town, filled with winding streets and adorable cafes. A great day trip is taking a water taxi to some of the nearby tiny islands for their hidden beaches, which tend to be less crowded than the ones on Korčula itself.

Located along the central stretch of Croatia’s coast, Zadar is a 3000-year-old city rich with historical architecture. Take a tour around the city and see highlights such as Roman ruins, the 9th century Church of St Donatus, and the old city which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the Museum of Ancient Glass and participate in a glass-blowing workshop. Additionally, Zadar is conveniently located near multiple national parks, making it a great home base to return to after spending the days hiking and taking in the stunning nature of Croatia.

Cres and Lošinj are technically two separate islands, but they are separated by a 30ft channel of water. Their landscapes and vibes are completely different, which means between the two islands there’s something for every traveler! Cres’ mountainous terrain is perfect for hikers and adventurers looking to enjoy Croatia’s fresh air, and the secluded beaches make the perfect tranquil retreat. Cres also hosts several small villages which are perfect for spending a day exploring. Meanwhile, Lošinj is great for the more relaxed tourist looking to enjoy cafes and beach towns. Mali Lošinj is considered one of the most beautiful island towns on the Adriatic, and is filled with cafes and shops where one can sit and enjoy the view of yachts coming and going from the port. Enjoy spotting fancy villas and wandering the streets to find hidden views. The nearby town of Veli Lošinj is smaller than its counterpart and has a lovely atmosphere. Be sure to take a stroll through the olive groves and head up to the Providenca viewpoint for a picture.

Istria is a lovely peninsula at the northernmost tip of Croatia that is a little more off-the-beaten path than some of the country’s other destinations. The region is known for its incredible foodstuffs, namely its truffles, wine, and olive oils. Taking a day trip out to the wineries and olive groves is a must, and finish the journey off with truffle hunting in the forest and a delicious meal. Istria’s pebbly beaches are great for snorkeling, and the large variety of Roman ruins will have history enthusiasts engaged for days.

Croatia is a stunning country that has so much to offer even to second (and third!) time visitors. The various islands and towns each have their own atmospheres and specialties, which means travelers will have new experiences no matter where they go. Call Sky Vacations today to start planning your Croatian adventure!