Croatia, literally unknown for westerners for decades, has become one of the most popular European tourist destination in the past few years. No wonder beautiful coastline, fairy tale-like waterfalls and Dalmatian towns with ancient Roman ruins has started to attract more and more visitors. Zadar, although less known, is a perfect spot to start your adventure in Croatia and the Balkan region. The good news for backpackers is that now many of low cost airlines from around Europe fly straight to Zadar. It's easy to get there, it's charming and can easily compete with Split and Dubrovnik. And it's more authentic, less touristy and crowded.
Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina - A City At The Crossroad of Civilizations
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, is probably one of the least known and visited European capitals. It's not big, populated by less than half a million people. However, the history of Sarajevo is so rich, complex and turbulent that even if the city had given half of its past away to some of the world's greatest metropolises, it would still be enormously interesting for a foreign visitor. Strolling down the streets of the old town, you'll get the impression that it was glued together from pieces that came from all parts of Europe and the Middle East: at one corner, you'll think you're in Prague admiring Christian churches and a street later when you notice oriental stalls, bazaars and Ottoman Mosques, you'll feel as if you were transported to Istanbul.
Herceg Novi, Montenegro - Beautiful Coastal Town in The Bay of Kotor
Herceg Novi (meaning "new castle") is a charming little town located at the entrance of lush green, beautifully surrounded by mountains Kotor Bay. It can be a good, more quiet alternative to overcrowded with tourists Croatian towns like Dubrovnik or Split. However, don't expect to see only locals there. Tourism in Montenegro is on the rise but Herceg Novi is still not as packed as, for example, other Montenegrin destinations - Budva (a party town where the famous Sveti Stefan island is situated), or Kotor.
Syri i Kalter - The Blue Eye Spring in Albania
Syri i Kalter (The Blue Eye) is a fairy tale-like spring located in the south of Albania, Delvine district, near the town of Saranda. Not only the spring is the attraction but also the surrounding nature, the forest, and the clearest fresh waters I have seen in my life. Even clearer then in the becoming famous now Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia. You might have the impression that this place is completely unreal, out of this world, as if specially prepared for a movie set. And, I would recommend that you visit it now, before hordes of tourists find out about it, especially that Albania (although unknown) it's in the heart of Europe and quite easy to reach.
7 reasons to visit Croatia
Croatia, situated on the Adriatic Sea is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, rich in culture and history. It's unique location is the main reason to visit it and enjoy all its benefits. Blue, crystal clear waters, Mediterranean, warm climate, delicious food and wine, affordable accommodation, breathtaking national parks. If you still haven't seen Plitvice Lakes, you must come and visit... What could you want more? I really enjoyed visiting Croatia and here I am presenting a few reasons why you also should visit this awesome country.
Split in Croatia - Dalmatian City on The Adriatic Sea
Split, an ancient city in modern day Croatia, after experiencing some turbulent events of the past wars, now, when the peace has come, witnessed a rapid economic growth, mainly thanks to great improvements of tourist infrastructure. It's the second largest city in Croatia (after Zagreb), and the largest in Dalmatia. Since 2000s, when Croatia invested in tourism industry, Split has become one of the most popular cities to visit on the Adriatic Coast. It owes its charm to the ancient city center situated now where the Diocletian's Palace once stood. Strolling down the narrow streets paved with the white stone from nearby Brac Island can take you back in time almost two thousand years to the era of the Roman Empire.
Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park (Plitvicka Jezera) lies between the Croatian capital Zagreb and the Adriatic coast town - Zadar. This largest National Park of Croatia is without a doubt one of the most beautiful National Parks in Europe. The area consists of cascades of sixteen crystal clear turquoise lakes, waterfalls, forests, canyons and gorges. It is a perfect place for hiking, enjoying the natural wonders and long exposure photography. The wooden trails along the way, which make walking easy, allow you to come really close to the waterfalls. The whole park is quite big and it takes at least five - six hours to see everything. The entry fee is 110