Things to Do In Croatia: 10 Places You've Gotta See On Your Trip to Croatia by Donna John

Croatia moved to the top of my bucket list well before I knew it was a location used in the filming of "Game of Thrones." Just a 2 1/2-hour boat ride away from Venice, there was a thought of a day trip to this marvelous country during my Italy trip. But my friend and I decided Croatia deserved so much more than one day. My Croatia research has started to help plan this trip, and here are some destinations and attractions that have made the list so far:

Dubrovnik: This picturesque Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea was a filming location for “Game of Thrones” and “Star Wars.” Dubrovnik is circled by 16th-century stone walls, historic buildings and churches. Walking along the limestone streets is a must on any trip to Croatia. 

Pakleni Islands: Look out from the island of Hvar, Croatia, and you’ll need the Pakleni Islands. Palmizana, Marinkovac Island, Galesnik, and Jerolim make up the islands and are popular tourist spots. Jump on a taxi boat from Hvar and island hop. Relax on the sandy beaches and explore the pine forests on Palmizana; snap photos of the beautiful pebble beachs on Marinkovac Island; have a private moment on the secluded beaches on Jerolim; and eat a delicious meal at the eco-ethno restaurant on Galesnik. 

Krka National Park: With seven waterfalls, preserved eco-systems, the 45-mile long Krka River and Dinara mountain range, Krka National Park is natural beauty at its finest. Visitors to the park can bike, hike, boat, swim and explore as they bask in the sheer magic of this Croatian gem. 

Korcula, Croatia: Often overshadowed by Dubrovnik and other more popular destinations, Korcula, the birthplace of Marco Polo, has a charm all its own. Sip on wine (Posip and Grk are local favorites) as you nibble on olives and admire the turquoise waters and charming island town. Plan to visit Vela Spila, a 30,000-year-old cave located on the island outside of Vela Luka. 

Diocletian's Palace: This palace is thought to be the most imposing Roman ruins and is the main tourist attraction in Split, Coatia. According to DiocletianPalace.org, "these ruins are some of the most valuable surviving buildings of the Roman era on the Adriatic coast." 

Fort Lovrijenac: Known as “Gibraltar of Dubrovnik,” this fortress is built on a cliff. The story goes, according to WallsOfDubrovnik.com, that the Venetians intended to build their fortress on the same spot at the beginning of the 11th century in order to control Dubrovnik. The people of Dubrovnik heard about this plan and decided to build Fortress Lovrijenac in order to protect themselves and their city. It worked. 

Motovun, Croatia: Love Italy? Then Motovun, located in Istria, is a must-see location in Croatia. The medieval town is sitting high on a hilltop and offers panoramic views, wine and incredible food, especially if you're a truffle lover. 

Rovinj: "If the concept of a picturesque Mediterranean harbor town had a name, I am sure it would be called Rovinj," writes travel blogger Années de Pèlerinage. The fishing port on the Instrian peninsula is filled with houses crowded together toward the sea, cobblestone streets and many pebble beaches. 

Sea Organ in Zadar Croatia: "On the edge of the Adriatic Sea in Zadar, Croatia, people fill the steps leading into the water ... The view of the sea is beautiful here but most people have stopped to listen to the amazing 'music' created by the Sea Organ." Read more of travel blogger Sheri Doyle's 30Seconds tip on this hypnotizing natural attraction in Croatia. 

Plitvice Lakes National Park: If you love waterfalls, Sheri Doyle recommends spending a day in Plitvice Lakes National Park. With 16 lakes, 90 waterfalls and walking paths, the world traveler says it's a "must-see in your lifetime." 

Been to Croatia? Share your must-see spots below! 

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