Despite being significantly smaller than the nearby hotspots of Italy and Greece, its long coastline has a variety of port destinations, offering secluded coves, stunning clifftop towns and draw-dropping National Parks. Below, we've listed Croatia's cruise ports to highlight the fantastic choice available in this beautiful country.
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Dubrovnik
You’ll never forget sailing into the historic walled city of Dubrovnik, which rises majestically out of the clear waters of the Eastern Mediterranean. Now famous as the filming location for Game of Thrones, a walk through the old town presents beautiful architecture at every turn, with palaces, clock towers and statues giving clues to its fascinating past. For a different perspective, take the cable car 400m up Mount Srd or a quick boat ride to the island of Lokrum to relax on the beaches with the city as your backdrop.
Hvar
As the sunniest island in the Mediterranean, a trip to this Croatian delight guarantees a day in paradise. Its mediaeval architecture is a delight to explore, followed by lunch in one of the many harbourside cafes. Make sure to try Croatia’s best red wines, grown a stone's throw away on the cliffside vineyards. Whilst in Hvar, also pick up some of the local lavender and delicate lace products, which can be found in the boutique shops around the town.
Korcula
Another of Croatia’s stunning islands, Korcula is a mix of beautiful beaches and pine forests. On a hot day, the trees provide shade for a picturesque walk as you stumble upon olive groves and grape vines dotted throughout the island, or stick to the shores where beaches come in all shapes and sizes, from isolated, sandy coves to larger pebbled stretches. The old town offers plenty of shopping and dining options. The island has a rich history as the birthplace of Marco Polo, with many buildings dating from the 13th century, and of course, a vineyard tour is a must for any wine lover, with some of the best Croatian whites ready to be sampled.
Rijeka
Croatia’s third largest city has a different feel to many of its counterparts. As an important commercial port, the offering here is more diverse and an alternative to the country's smaller, intimate destinations. Rijeka National History Museum (which includes both an aquarium and a botanical garden) and the working fish market both tell the fascinating story of this country. There are also a range of water sports on offer - the opportunity to windsurf in the clear, blue seas is not to be missed. Rijeka has plenty of walking routes around its old town, a range of excellent restaurants and a World War II military fort, now repurposed as a spectacular planetarium.
Split
The beautiful city of Split is a sight to behold as you cruise into the terminal, with spectacular church spires, lush, green hills and never-ending sea views. There is so much history to be explored as you wander through the streets. Diocletian’s Palace, the Roman emperor’s ‘holiday home’ remains wonderfully intact and the reward for a climb to the top of St. Domnius’ Tower is a sight to behold. The city’s Bačvice Beach is a popular spot for those wishing to swim in the warm Adriatic waters, or you could take a break from the crowds as you walk up to Marjan Forest Park botanical garden to experience a wilder side of the Mediterranean.
Zadar
Zadar offers a unique balance of Croatia’s fascinating past and it's vision for the future. Alike many destinations dotted along the coast, its Roman old town offers amazing architecture, hinting at the history of this fascinating country. In contrast, the modern millennial Sea Organ lays under your feet as you wander the promenade, making music from the motion of the waves. This is complimented by the Sun Salutation monument, dedicated to the solar star, with solar panels generating an evening light show. Alongside these highlights, Zadar offers the very best of Croatian food, nature walks and water sports.
GET.cruises will help you find the best cruise deals. Search for your perfect cruise holiday and compare prices from all the major travel agents.
