DALMATIAN PATHS

Split, the largest city on the coast of the Adriatic Sea and the second largest in Croatia, is a place of rich history, vivid culture and incredible beauty. Located between the mountains and the crystal clear sea, Split is a real treasure trove of interesting things that attract visitors from all over the world.
One of the most famous attractions of the city is Diocletian's Palace, built in the 4th century for the Roman emperor Diocletian. This impressive complex offers a glimpse into ancient life with many imposing buildings, the cathedral of St. It blows you through narrow streets filled with restaurants, shops and art galleries.
Not far from the palace is the Riva, a promenade along the coast of the Adriatic Sea that is the heart of the city's social life. Here you can enjoy relaxed walks, cafes and restaurants and observe the local rhythm of life.
For nature lovers, the Marjan Forest Park offers excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling and a panoramic view of the city and the sea. This green oasis offers peace and quiet, taking you away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Split is also known for its rich cultural scene. During the summer, the Split Summer Festival is held, known for its theater performances, concerts and outdoor art events. Throughout the year, various galleries and museums offer insight into local art and history.
For gastronomic pleasures, Split offers numerous possibilities. Dalmatian cuisine is rich in fresh seafood, olive oil and herbs. Do not miss the opportunity to taste delicious fish specialties such as "brudet" or "gregada" as well as homemade cured meat products and cheeses.
For those keen on outdoor activities, the nearby islands provide fantastic opportunities to explore. Hvar, Brač, Vis and Šolta are just some of the islands you can visit during a boat trip. Beautiful beaches, coves and turquoise blue sea will ensure you an unforgettable experience.
Split is also the starting point for a trip to the Krka National Park, known for its spectacular waterfalls and natural beauty.
A short drive from Split will take you to the historic town of Trogir, also under UNESCO protection, where you can admire Romanesque and Venetian architecture.
In conclusion, Split is a fascinating destination that combines rich history with modern vibes. With a variety of attractions, beautiful nature and hospitable population, the city provides an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

Top 10 reasons to visit Sibenik!

In the center of the Adriatic is located Sibenik that is the oldest native Croatian town on the Adriatic known for its cultural and historical sites and natural beauty. This city-museum is one of the most desirable tourist destinations in Croatia and we bring you 10 reasons why you should visit it.

1. Kornati National Park and Krka National Park
Krka National Park gained its status in 1985. This national park is adorned with the Krka River and its 7 travertine waterfalls, the Cikola River, rich flora and fauna, and cultural monuments – Visovac Monastery and Krka Monastery. The Kornati archipelago is the most indented island group in the Adriatic Sea and in 1980 it was declared a national park due to its interesting natural features. The most famous phenomenon of this park is the cliffs facing the open sea.

2. The Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden of St. Lawrence
This garden is the only medieval Mediterranean garden in Croatia and is decorated with boxwoods, roses, a collection of thyme and capers.

3. Four fortresses of Sibenik
The Fortresses of St. Michael, St. John, Vol. Nicholas and Fortress Barone used to be defensive buildings and nowadays are famous tourist attractions. On the stone hill stands the Fortress of St. Michael under whose walls has developed the oldest autochthonous Croatian town. Fortress Barone and St. Johns Fortress were built before the arrival of the Ottoman army during the Kandian War in the mid-17th century. St. Nicholas Fortress, an important Croatian maritime monument, was built in the middle of the 16th century at the entrance to the canal of Sv. Ante.

4. Promenade in the St. Anthony's Channel
Perfect for sightseeing with stunning panoramic views of the city, as well for recreational activities, is the promenade through the St. Anthony's Channel. The promenade connects two places - Panikovac Cove and St. Nicholas.

5. Old City Center
Feel the spirit of medieval Sibenik as you pass through its old city center, enriched with beautiful medieval buildings such as the Cathedral of St. James's, Prince's Palace, Bishop's Palace, Square of the Republic of Croatia, Civic and Small Loggia, Four Wells Square and many others.

6. The Cathedral of St. James - UNESCO World Heritage
One of the most beautiful Croatian buildings, the Cathedral of St. James was built of stone with no binder. During the centuries-old construction, the cathedral has changed 3 styles: Gothic, Gothic-Renaissance and Renaissance.

7. Sokolarski centar Dubrava
Dubrava Falconry Center In Dubrava located near Sibenik is the only falconry center in Croatia where you can see different species of birds of prey, take a course in medieval falconry and enjoy the wildlife.

8. Aquapark
In the family part of Amadria Park Sibenik is the first water theme park in Dalmatia - Aquapark, which covers an area of 8000 m2. Due to numerous sites such as the "lazy river", large barrels and kids zones guests of all ages can enjoy there.

9. Sandy beach at Amadria Park
This sandy beach repeatedly awarded as the most beautiful Adriatic beach is ideal for relaxing and enjoying the sea.

10. Dalmatian Ethno Village
Moreover, you can visit the Dalmatian Ethno Village in the heart of Amadria Park, get to know Dalmatian traditions and amenities and taste the indigenous Dalmatian delicacies of the past. In the village you will have the opportunity to see the centuries-old mills, weaver, oil mill, to taste Sibenik's wines and numerous indigenous Dalmatian specialties.

Zagreb-An Old City with a Young Soul

Zagreb is the Croatian capital, and largest city in Croatia by population. Historically, the city of Zagreb has grown from two neighboring settlements, Gradec and Kaptol, which form the core of todays Zagreb, its historical center. According to the legend, Zagreb got its name when an old ancient ban, tired and thirsty, makes the girl Manda to bring water from the spring. Ban said: "Mando, dear, zagrabi!“ (zagrabi – grabs) 

Zagreb is an administrative, economic, cultural, and scientific center of Croatia. By its position, Zagreb belongs to the cities of Central Europe. Zagreb is situated in continental central Croatia, on the southern slopes of Medvednica and on the banks of the Sava River. Its favorable geographic position in the southwestern corner of the Pannonian Basin, between Alpine, Dinaric, Adriatic and Pannonian regions, the cause is the fact that Zagreb is the transport hub between Central and Southeastern Europe and the Adriatic Sea. Due to its history and significance, Zagreb is rich in monuments and architecture. The center of Zagreb are considered historic district Upper Town and Kaptol, and Donji Grad, which has an exceptional diversity of architecture from Baroque to the present day. The center is surrounded on the north side with residential neighborhoods with higher levels of housing, and to the south of the former working-class neighborhoods that are experiencing strong reurbanisation. Appearance and arrangement, Zagreb is a typical Central European city.

Zagreb is the largest cultural center of the Croatia. The town has several institutions that traditionally have great prestige. In music, it is the Lisinski Concert Hall, in the world of theater, ballet and opera Croatian National Theatre, among libraries National and University Library. Among many quality museums and galleries, the cultural echo exhibitions maybe the most prominent Klović Palace. Zagreb also hosts several significant festivals, such as Animafest - World Festival of Animated Film, which takes place every even year, INmusic - one of the largest open-air festivals in Croatia, International Folklore Festival, theater festival Eurokaz, and Festival of contemporary dance. Zagreb has a film festival „Zagreb Film Festival“, and is particularly interesting ZagrebDox, documentary film festival.

From important exhibitions of recent visual expression, there is Zagreb Salon. From music festivals, there is Zagrebfest, one of the oldest events of Croatian pop music, avant-garde music festival then Music Biennale Zagreb every odd year and the Festival of the Zagreb Philharmonic Orchestra. Since 1996, the streets of downtown Zagreb maintains Cest is dBest, an international multimedia festival of street performers. In the summer, there are also open-air concerts, mostly in the Upper Town (Summer in the Upper Town).

Zagreb Michelin Restaurants

This year Zagreb has received its first prestigious Michelin star, which was awarded to Noel Restaurant. Noel Restaurant has amazed by its superb modern European cuisine and the perfect harmony of delicious creative dishes with Croatian, French and Italian wines. 

13 Zagreb restaurants with the Michelin Plate label

Among the 50 restaurants in Croatia that carry the Michelin plate label for the top dishes made with fresh ingredients there are 13 Zagreb restaurants: Pod Zidom, Time, Boban, Dubravkin Put, Apetit, Takenoko, ManO, Zinfandel's, Le Bistro Esplanade, Bistro Apetit by Marin Rendic, Tekka, Mon Ami and Mundoaka which is unfortunately closed. 

The famous luxury Esplanade Hotel Zagreb takes two places on this list: Le Bistro Esplanade and Zinfandel's. Le Bistro Esplanade opened in 1986, modeled after small French restaurants. A blend of traditional cuisine and French chic, as well as pleasant ambience attract many local and world famous celebrities. 

Bib Gourmand Recommendations 

The Michelin Bib Gourmand label has been given to two Zagreb restaurants that stand out for their good quality and affordable menus: restaurants Agava and Tač. In the heart of Zagreb there is a classic Italian Agava restaurant whose large windows offer a magnificent view of Tkalciceva Street. Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist combined with a cozy atmosphere makes this restaurant one of the most desirable Croatian restaurants.  

A popular family Tač restaurant located at the top of the hill outside the center of Zagreb is known for its Mediterranean menu where you can find many Istrian specialties and simple fresh seasonal food.  

Plitvice Lakes consist of 16 lakes located between Mala Kapela and Plješivica in Lika. According to the legend, the Plitvice lakes were created after a long drought. People, animals and lakes craved for water. The people prayed and prayed. Then in the valley the Black Queen appeared with her magnificent retinue; she took pity on the people and by the strong wind and thunder, the rain finally start to fall. It was raining so long, until the water level has not grown enough to create the Lakes. 

Lakes receive water from numerous rivers and streams, and they are connected by cascades and waterfalls. Travertine barriers, which occurred over a period of ten thousand years, are one of the fundamental features of the park. Vast forest areas, exceptional lakes and waterfalls, flora and fauna, mountain air, contrasting autumn colors, trails and wooden bridges and more are unique area that UNESCO declared it World Natural Heritage in 1979, among the first in the world. The park is divided on narrower and extended zone according to the degree of protection. It is settled in two counties, 91% of the park is in Lika-and 9% in Karlovac County. The National Park consists of 16 lakes, which are stepwise and descend into each other in a series of 5460 m as the crow flies (airline). Lakes are divided on Upper lakes and Bottom Lakes. Top lakes are: Prošćansko jezero, Ciginovac, Okrugljak, Batinovac, Veliko jezero, Malo jezero, Vir, Galovac, Milino jezero, Gradinsko jezero, Veliki Burget i Kozjak. Bottom lakes are: Milanovac, Gavanovac, Kaluđerovac i Novakovića Brod. Lakes soak waters of the Black and White River from the tributaries and Rječica and its tributaries. There are many sources where water abundant springs. These are typical karst springs formed on the faults of permeable and impermeable geological formations. The largest lake is Kozjak with 81.5 hectares, it is also the deepest with 47 m. Prošćansko lake is the second largest and stretches from south to north in length of 2.5 km.

On the Upper Lakes geological structure is mainly dolomite, and on the bottom of the limestone. There are about 30 caves. Travertine barriers, which share one lake from another are from limestone deposited from water. Structure of travertine barriers is very sensitive and fragile and requires a high level of protection. The three main elements: an abundance of water, tufa and travertine. Without water, there would be no lakes nor falls nor lush vegetation. Tufa are plants that produce limestone rocks and change the shape of the lake and lake beds. Travertine barriers are the biological phenomenon of exceptional beauty. One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Plitvice - Waterfall between Milanovac and Gavanovac is called the "waterfall Milka Trnina" after Croatian opera prima donna.

Forests and waters are connected to each other and one without the other can not survive. Forest reserves, preserves and purify large amounts of water. There is a large area in park of high quality forests, including rain forests, which are superior habitat for wildlife. Forests of Plitvica lakes are habitat to three large European carnivores: brown bear, wolf and lynx. Numerous types of woodpeckers and forest owl testify to the high quality and naturalness of the habitat. The forests are the habitat for numerous wildlife. A layer of leaves is one of the richest microhabitats for wildlife in the world. It is home to lizards, insects, various fungi and bacteria. Interesting is endemic insect Molops plitvicensis, who lives in the birch forests only in Plitvice. The park has registered 321 species of butterflies, 157 species of birds and 20 species of bats. Already in 1883, the belt of forests surrounding the lakes and sources was declared a separate zone, where deforestation was banned. They are part of the National Ecological Network and the European project to protect natural heritage NATURA 2000 program.

Zadar, the pearl of the Croatian coast, attracts visitors with its rich history, picturesque landscape and unique combination of modernity and tradition. Located on the coast of the Adriatic Sea, Zadar is a city that delights with its cultural heritage, beautiful beaches and the incredible atmosphere that stretches through the streets of its old town core.
Sea Organ and Salutation to the Sun: Zadar is known for its innovative installations that combine art and natural elements. Sea organs are unique musical instruments that produce sounds according to the waves of the sea, creating a melody that intertwines with natural rhythms. Right next to them is Salutation to the Sun, an installation that transforms the sun's energy into light games and spectacular scenes during the night.
Forum: Zadar is home to numerous historical monuments, and the Forum is the heart of the old town. Here you can see the remains of an ancient Roman temple, church and other historical buildings. Take a walk through this stone square and immerse yourself in the city's rich history.
Church of St. Donata: This unique pre-Romanesque church dates back to the 9th century and has become a symbol of Zadar. Its circular construction and simple design leave you breathless, and the interior offers a beautiful view of the city.
Narodni trg: The central square in Zadar, Narodni trg, is the place where locals and visitors meet. It is surrounded by baroque palaces and is an ideal place for drinking coffee or relaxing while observing the city atmosphere.
Beaches: Zadar offers a variety of beaches for all tastes. Borik is a family beach with shallow waters, ideal for children. Kolovare is a city beach with plenty of facilities, while on Puntamica you can relax in a quieter environment.
Evening walks: Zadar becomes especially magical in the evening hours. A walk along the waterfront with beautiful sunsets and illuminated city walls will provide you with unforgettable moments.
Gastronomic offer: A visit to Zadar would not be complete without tasting local delicacies. Try homemade prosciutto, Pag cheese, seafood and traditional Dalmatian specialties. Restaurants in the old city center offer an authentic experience of Mediterranean cuisine.
Zadar is a destination that offers many attractions and experiences for diverse interests. Regardless of whether you are a lover of history, art, nature or gastronomy, this city will surely charm you with its unique atmosphere and rich offer.