What is Croatia known for: The Best 31 Things!

Are you also intrigued by Croatia and really want to know what is Croatia known for?

When you think of Croatia, maybe the first thing that comes to your mind is its beautiful shore full of islands, or maybe it’s the historic cities that take you back in time. But Croatia has much more to offer! But really, what is Croatia known for?

This beautiful country has a lot to offer to you as a visitor. It has a rich history, some delicious food, great wines, and warm, friendly people.

Let’s look at the top 31 things that have put Croatia on the map around the world. This list will cover a wide range of unique and charming things about Croatia.

Let’s dive in and find out what this Mediterranean gem has to offer!

What is Croatia known for: 31 Best Things

As mentioned above, a lot of people will know the classics such as the beauty of Croatia and what it has to offer when you’re looking for a great holiday spot. But what are the other things that Croatia is known for?

1. Dalmatian Coast

With its clear seas, white pebble beaches, and beautiful islands, it’s known for its stunning beauty and is a real paradise if you love to spend your time in the sun.

2. Dubrovnik’s Walls

These ancient fortifications really have stood the test of time and remain a powerful symbol of the city’s history. They offer stunning views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. A very popular place for tourists to visit.

3. Diocletian’s Palace

This is an important part of Split’s history and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its beautiful design and historical importance definitely makes it a must-see if you’re ever close to Split.

4. Oysters of Ston

The town of Ston and the bay next to it are known for growing some of the best oysters and mussels in the world. Together with a great Croatian wine, would do you need more?

5. Plitvice Lakes National Park

This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its chain of 16 lakes connected by waterfalls and stretching into a limestone tunnel. Lovely place but can get very busy during the summer months!

6. Istrian truffles

Are you a foodie? Are you into truffles? Istrian truffles are highly sought after by gourmet cooks all over the world. Istria is a great place to look for truffles. Very well-trained dogs will help you find them!

7. Croatian wines

The wines are made in many different places that grow grapes. This has been done for thousands of years. Might not be the first country you think of when it comes to wine but really worth a try.

8. Zagreb

Love this place! It’s the lively capital city of Croatia. It always has a lot of cultural events, you’ll find lots of different kinds of buildings, and it definitely has a lively food and drink scene. Check out my post about whether Zagreb is worth visiting!

9. Hvar Island

This island has a lot to offer. It is known for its lush wineries, lavender fields, and buzzing nightlife. Especially loved among young people looking for some fun nights out!

10. The Blue Cave of Biševo

This is a beautiful sea cave that is lit by a mesmerizing blue light caused by sunlight reflecting off the water. Cool place to visit.

11. Game of Thrones

I know there are many Game of Thrones out there. Several places in Croatia, especially Dubrovnik, were used to shoot scenes for this popular fantasy series. This has made Croatia famous in pop culture. Cool, right?

12. Pula Arena

This really is a fantastic site that impressed me when I saw it. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. It is still used today for concerts and film events.

13. Krka National Park

This park is known for its seven waterfalls and large numbers of plants and animals. It is a paradise if you’re into nature.

14. Croatian food

I really love Balkan food and Croatia is also part of that! It’s influenced by both Mediterranean and Eastern European cuisines. Dishes like peka and pašticada mix many different flavors. Try it out for yourself!

15. Yachting

Croatia’s long Adriatic coast and many islands make it a great place for sailing and yachting experiences. You’ll see a lot of yachts and sailing boats along the coastline.

16. Stiniva Cove

Let’s try to keep this a secret? This is a hidden beach on the island of Vis that was named Europe’s best beach back in 2016.

17. Zlatni Rat Beach

This is a beautiful pebble beach in the shape of a horn on the island of Bra. Its shape and direction change based on how the wind blows. Always a surprise!

18. Sea Organ of Zadar

This one-of-a-kind structure on the coast of Zadar makes harmonious sounds when the sea waves move. It’s a very nice piece of art that works that works together really with mother nature.

19. The “Necktie” or “Cravat”

It is said that the modern necktie was invented in Croatia, and the Cravat is a national sign. So every time you tie it, it will now stick with you forever that it’s from Croatia.

20. Roman Ruins

There are many well-preserved Roman ruins in Croatia, which is a sign of its rich history. It’s almost hard to miss it when making a road-trip through the country. If you’re looking for some tips, check out my post about tips & tricks for a Balkan road-trip!

21. Korčula

This island is known for its thick forest, vineyards, and charming old town. It is said to be where the famous explorer Marco Polo was born.

22. Saint Blaise Festival

This is a religious and cultural event held every year in Dubrovnik to honor the city’s patron saint. A great idea if you want to experience local customs and traditions.

23. Peka Bell Domes

They are a traditional way for Croatians to cook food, especially meat and fish, under a dome that looks like some sort of bell. This creates unique and tasty dishes that are typical for Croatia.

24. Maraschino

This is a unique cherry liqueur made from Dalmatia’s own Marasca cherries. It is a taste of the country’s rich customs.

25. Zinfandel Wine

The special Zinfandel grape can be traced back to Croatia. This makes it a must-try if you’re a wine lover. A great taste of Croatia!

26. Glagolitic Alphabet

Created in Croatia in the 9th century, it is the oldest known Slavic alphabet and an important part of Croatia’s cultural history.

27. Mljet National Park

This is a beautiful place with two saltwater lakes and an island with a Benedictine abbey in the middle of the bigger lake. You’ll have some amazing views from the top and it’s a great spot if you love nature.

28. Folk Dances

Traditional Croatian dances like Kolo and Lino are a big part of celebrations and holidays, showing off bright costumes and music. I would recommend any related events to see it for yourself.

29. Hum

This is officially the smallest town in the world, according to Guinness World Records, but it has a lovely charm. A typical bucket-list place to visit.

30. Croatian Lace

Especially from the island of Pag and the town of Lepoglava, the traditional Croatian lace is a real cultural treasure that is protected by UNESCO. As you are aware by now, Croatia is very well represented on the UNESCO list!

31. Sinjska Alka

This is an equestrian race that has been going on for hundreds of years and is held every year in the town of Sinj. It is a great show of skill, bravery, and horsemanship.

What is Croatia known for: FAQs

The questions and answers below are related to the main topic and will give you even more great info about Croatia!

What makes Croatia unique?

What makes Croatia different from other vacation spots? Is it the medieval buildings that have been kept really well, the clear blue sea, or the culture? Well, I would say, it’s all of these and more.

Croatia is a country that has kept the charm of its history while adapting to the modern world. With its long coastline and many islands, the country’s unique geography makes it a paradise if you love the sea or outdoor activities.

Also, Croatian food is a feast for the senses, with flavors from the Mediterranean and Eastern Europe. Some of the best wines and olive oils in the world are made in the beautiful areas of Istria and Dalmatia.

This unique mix of things to do makes Croatia a one-of-a-kind place to visit.

Why is Croatia so popular?

Croatia has become a very famous travel destination over the years. Some of the reasons why it is so famous are the beauty of its old cities, the clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, the delicious food, and the very friendly people.

Croatia also has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world (in my humble opinion). With eight national parks, many protected areas, and many different animals and plants, the country has a lot to offer nature lovers.

Talking about animals.. Are you curious about the national animal of Croatia? Check out my post about Croatia’s symbol!

Croatia also has a lot of festivals, old traditions, and historical sites that show off its rich culture and history. Fans of the famous TV show Game of Thrones also go to Dubrovnik, which is one of the main places where the show was filmed.

The Wrap-up: What is Croatia known for?

For me, Croatia has a little bit of everything. It’s become a favorite place for many travelers because of its beautiful beaches, clear waters, rich cultural history, delicious food, and natural beauty.

As said, Croatia has something for everyone, whether you like to go on adventures, learn about history, eat good food, or just relax in a beautiful place.

The best part is that there’s always something new to find in this amazing country, no matter how many times you go there (I can tell you this from my own experience).

Got excited about visiting Croatia? Check out my post about useful tips for traveling to Croatia!

Your restless voyager,

Dustin