CROATIA

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VISÃO GERAL ATRAÇÕESTRANSPORTE COMPRAS ONDE FICAR ONDE COMEROVERVIEW ATTRACTIONSTRANSPORTATION SHOPPINGWHERE TO STAY WHERE TO EAT

OVERVIEW

To visit Croatia, in the Balkan region, is to take a trip to a surprising past. Castles, medieval towns and much history. From thousands of years ago to the recent separation from Yugoslavia (in 1991), the country of 4.5 millions of people keeps architectural treasures and an amazing cultural heritage.

Either walking the streets of the capital Zagreb and the streets of Split, or among impressive palaces of Dubrovnik, the feeling is that you are in a movie set.

But visiting the Republic of Croatia (its official name) also is to be enchanted by one of the most beautiful coasts in the world. Surrounded by the Adriatic Sea and having 1,244 islands,

the country is one of the most desired destinations for people who want to enjoy the European Summer in the best style.

Added to that, there are beautiful national parks, such as the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a natural phenomenon with waterfalls, cascades and caves, forming a beautiful mosaic of colors which is known in the entire world.

Croatia can be divided in four regions. Two of them are on the North and the other two are on the coast. The most famous one is Dalmatia, which has the main touristic destinations, since it is located on the coast. However, regions such as Slovenia can also surprise the visitors with amazing attractions.

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TRANSPORT

Moving through Croatia can be complicated, and it requires a careful planning due to its uncommon geography. However, there are several good-quality options: ferries are reliable, buses are reliable and efficient, trains connect big cities and flights usually have fair prices. And if the option is driving a car, the country offers modern and well preserved highways.

CARFrom Zagreb (capital), a motorway in great conditions will take you to Split (coast) in four hours. On the other side, the roads along the coast are full of curves. Thus, you should pay attention to the part of the road which goes to Dubrovnik. During the high season (July and August) and sunny weekends, the traffic can be congested in cities of the coast. In the islands, the best idea is to rent a car. Besides the freedom it will give to you, buses usually are slow and not much frequent.

The language spoken in the country is the Croatian language, a Slavonic language, which is also spoken in Bosnia and in other regions of nearby countries. However, many people can speak English, specially young people, followed by the Italian language, due to the proximity with the country.

And the best thing is that Croatia is increasingly developing tourism with a great infrastructure: good restaurants, extensive hotel chain, and the easy movement among cities are among great conquests. This is also due to the fact that, nowadays, Croatia has one of the strongest economies of the former Yugoslav republics. It is the second biggest one in the entire Balkan region, behind only Greece.

WEATHERThere are three climate zones in Croatia: in the interior of the country, the predominant climate is moderately continental. The mountain climate predominates at 1,200m above ocean level. The areas along the coast of the Adriatic Sea have a Mediterranean climate, that is, a mild climate. The days are frequently sunny; the Summers are hot and dry and the Winters are mild and wet.

Average temperatures in the interior vary from -2ºC to 0ºC, in January, and from 20ºC to 22ºC, in July. In the mountains, they are a little lower than that. However, in the coast, they vary from 5ºC to 9ºC in January and from 23ºC to 26ºC in July.

PLANECroatia has 68 airports, but only five of them are international airports. The main airport is the International Airport of Zagreb, located at 10km from the center of the capital. From there, flights depart and arrive from main European cities, and also from the Middle East. Another option to go to Croatia by plane is the Airport of Split, the second most important airport of the country. Among local airlines, the most famous one is Croatia Airlines (www.croatiaairlines.com).

TRAINThe railway transportation is developed, with high-speed trains in some routes, and it usually is cheaper, if compared to other European countries. The central station, called Kolodvor Glavni, is located in Zagreb. From there, you can go to cities such as Split. On the other side, there are very few routes on the coast. In Dubrovnik, for example, one of the main cities, there is not even a train station.

FERRY-BOATIt is highly probable that you will use ferryboats as a mean of transportation in Croatia. It is by them that you will be able to go to most islands of the Adriatic Sea. The main company providing this kind of transportation is Jadrolinija, although there is also the possibility for taking private vessels. In the route Split-Hvar, for example, one of the most bustling routes, it can take you 1hr05, in several schedules during the day. You must pay attention since many routes only are in operation during Summer months.

International sea transport also is very used to go to Croatia from Italy. From Venice and Ancona, for example, you can board to go to the cities of Pula and Porec. Usually, ferries are not luxurious nor fast, but they can be a great option if you have time and want to save a hotel night, if you chose the trip during the night.

BUSTraveling by bus through Croatia is a cheap and convenient alternative, specially in the continent and along the coast, since there are not many railway lines. However, to explore the islands, this type of transportation is not very recommended. Buses also are a good option to go to the country if you are coming from Italy or Slovenia, since there are few flights and trains coming from both countries.

BICYCLEBicycles are excellent options for adventures in the islands. They are the perfect transportation to enjoy the local atmosphere and to reach places automobiles cannot go.

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ATTRACTIONS

Croatia offers attractions that please the most varied types of tourists. Beaches, historical cities and natural parks ensure several days of fun in all regions of the country.

ZAGREBCroatia’s capital and the biggest city of the country, Zagreb’s population has 800 thousand inhabitants. It is a place for contrasts. It is dedicated to workers during the day but it has a fun and relaxed atmosphere during the night. It is the typical European metropolis in many aspects, but, at the same time, it is known as being a welcoming and very hospitable place.

The history of Zagreb dates back to 1094, when its diocese was created. The facades of the buildings of its historical center show the high spirit of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, but it can also be noticed influences from the city of Prague, in Czech Republic. Almost all main points of interest are located in the Center. Lovely coffeehouses, restaurants, parks and gardens, as the ones from the neighborhood Ribnjak, affectionately cared, create the scenario along with the walls of Kaptol.

We also highlight the Cathedral of Zagreb, with its Gothic art, andZrinjevac, a park located a few steps away from the main square TRG Bana Josipa Jelacica.

PLITVICE LAKESLocated between the mountains of Mala Kapela and Plješivica, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is an invaluable natural

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phenomenon. There are 16 big lakes with crystalline water connected by other small and medium lakes, creating waterfalls and cascades in a breathtaking path. The caves and rocks in the pathway contribute to an unique spectacle of mosaic of colors, shapes and sounds.

In the 300 thousand km² park, electrical trains and boats transport the visitors to several destinations. Then, the tour is by foot through narrow paths, trails and wooden bridges over the surface of the water. The park receives visitors during the entire year, but it is more pleasant to visit it during Summer months. On the other side, during Winter, the scenario can be rewarding with its frozen waterfalls. For people who prefer to spend the night inside the National Park, there are several options of hotels and restaurants, including family’s houses.

KRKAKrka National Park is astonishing for several reasons. Besides its natural phenomenons, it

is full of historical and cultural monuments. The most remarkable one is the Franciscan monastery in the small island of Visovac, located in the middle of the lake. Inside the monastery, a photo gallery and a church tells us about the origins, which date back to the 14th century. However, the main attraction of the park are its seven waterfalls. The biggest of them is Roski Tapa, although Skradinski Buk has the biggest and most famous fall.

SPLITThe center of Split, in Dalmatia, is in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Its history started in the year 305, with the foundation of the summer village of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Over 17 centuries later, it still is possible to pass by places such as the emperor’s mausoleum, which later was incorporated to the Cathedral of Saint Duje, besides the Diocletian’s Palace, considered the real symbol of the city. Split also is the starting point for several islands of the Adriatic Sea.

ISLANDSThe formation of the Croatian coast, with its 1,244 islands, islets, reefs and cliffs, happened after a significant increase in the level of the Adriatic Sea, around 13 thousand years before Christ. The tranquility of the waters that receive boaters and adventurous people is contrasted by the liveliness of the cities, which become scenario for the most famous parties of the European Summer.

Out of the total of islands, only 50 of them are inhabited. Among the most visited ones by tourists, there are the ones from the archipelago of Split. The Island of Brac, the biggest one of the Adriatic Sea, with its beautiful white stone and carving workshop tradition, and the sunny and fun Hvarreceive people from several origins, specially in the months of July and August. A very common option, specially among young people, is the eventYacht Week, in which people from the entire world rent luxurious boats to go to and,

or course, enjoy parties in high sea and in the main marine islands of the region.

DUBROVNIKDubrovnik is a walled city, located in the South extreme of the region of Dalmatia, in the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Although it is small city (with a population of 40 thousand people), it is one of the main touristic stances of the Mediterranean, and it is listed as UNESCO World Heritage since 1979.

In the Middle Ages, Dubrovnik rivaled in commercial shipping with Venice, in Italy. It made the city to reach a remarkable level of development during the 15th and 16th centuries, and it was an important center of development of the Croatian language and literature.

Among its main attractions, there are Roland’s Column and the Bell Tower, in which bronze statues play a huge bell every hour of the day. However, it is the walls, 2km long and surrounding the Old City, that made the city famous in the entire world. Dubrovnik became even more famous after being a scenario for the television series Game of Thrones.

ZADARThe region of Zadar is in the North of Dalmatia; thus, it is the entry door for all who travel from the North of the Adriatic Sea. Full of contrasts, this region is rich in historical heritages and has incredible nature. The combination of the blue of the ocean and the dark green of the pine trees makes it a memorable setting. The Old City has Roman ruins, medieval churches, cosmopolitan coffees and great museums.

SLOVENIAThe region of Slovenia, in the oriental part of Croatia, reserves some treasures for people who want to see more of the country. Molded by the strength of the rivers Drava, Danube, Sava and Ilova, the region has unmissable programs. Going to the Old City of Osijek, visiting traditional villages of Baranja and getting amazed by the Kopacki Rit Natural Parkare just some of them. All of that with the warm welcoming and friendship that are so typical from the region.

WHERE TO STAY

The price of lodgings in Croatia varies depending on the time of the year. During the months of Summer, the prices increase proportionally to the temperatures, specially in coastal towns and islands.

However, you can also find a wide choice of places which offer fair prices, specially when they are guest-houses and hostels for backpackers, and the famous B&B (bed and breakfast).

B&BThis type of lodging is very common in the entire country, and it is a good option for people who only want a place to sleep, without much luxury or comfort.

CAMPINGThere are several areas for camping in Croatia, including some nudist camps. It is important to stay only in authorized places, since it is forbidden to go camping without permission in national parks and in some islands. You can learn more on Croatian Camping Union’s website (http://www.camping.hr/).

Other lodgings: there is a big offer of private houses in Croatia, which can be reserved through local travel agencies. During high

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season, several places request a minimum of three nights for lodging, or they charge extra fees for short stays. The most common option for lodging, specially in the coast, are SoBes (private room), which, usually, have much better prices than hotels. They can be reserved through local travel agencies and tourist offices.

HOSTELSthrough Youth Hostel Association (www.hfhs.hr), you can find several options of hostels, in bigger cities and also in islands.

If the idea is to lodge in a more comfortable place with higher prices, the hotels are the best option. Lately, a continuous investment in the entire hotel chain of the country with great options of 4 and 5 stars has been being made along the coast and in the interior of the country. There is also the alternative of sophisticated boutique hotels in main cities. Inside the country, rural tourism has been growing, as well as new rustic accommodations along with it.

DINING OUT

Croatian cuisine is diversified and known as being a cuisine of different regions and influences. The selection of ingredients and methods for preparation can be geographically divided between coast and continental regions.

The continental cuisine has roots in Hungarian, Viennese and Turkish gastronomic schools. Dishes with meat, freshwater fish and

leguminosas are common. Chicken and veal are two of the most popular offers, and usually they are accompanied by a pasta, such as gnocchi. A dish that is authentically Croatian and that has a name which is almost unpronounceable is Zagorski Štrukli. Prepared with local cheese, it is cooked with cream and butter.

But the coastal region is characterized by influences of the Greeks, Romans and the Mediterranean cuisine in general, such as Italian and French cuisines. Specialties, of course, are always fresh seafood, such as squid, octopus, shrimp and lobster.

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They can be prepared in different ways, and can be accompanied by local olive oil, ham, vegetables, wines and liquor. In the small town of Ston Mali, close to Dubrovnik, the attractions are oysters and mussels.

Wines are also part of the rich Croatian gastronomy, and they are very popular. Their production dates back to ancient Greek colonists, who already produced such drinks in the islands of Dalmatia around 2,500 years ago. Nowadays, there are over 300 wineries regions and a strict classification system to ensure the quality and the origin. Frequently, the wine is diluted so a drink known as gemist (a combination of white wine and carbonated water) can be made.

SHOPPING

Croatia has a great tradition in handicrafts. Thus, leaving a space in the luggage is essential to bring home different and original gifts.

Produced only in the Island of Pag, the pag lace is a type of squared or rounded lace. Although it is simple, since it is made of only white thread, this famous handicraft, which can be found in any store, has already been used to adorn clothes of empresses and princesses of the entire Europe.

Embroideries are also part of the history of Croatia. With Ottoman and Venetian influences, the predominant color is red,

symbolizing fertility. Look for tablecloths, tissues and aprons decorated with traditional Croatian drawings.

Close to Zagreb, the city of Samobor produces one of the most famous crystals in the entire world. There, craftsmen of all ages, for centuries, have been passing on their abilities from one generation to the next.

The biggest supermarket chain you will find in Croatia is Konzum, with stores in the entire country. It is a great option to try wines, breads and cheeses of the regions, besides, of course, personal-use objects.

Another option are the open air markets, which are present in almost all of the main cities. In most of them, typical food and products are sold by local farmers. It is a great opportunity to taste homemade cheeses, wines and other

+3859392

1129155

IDD CODE OF THE COUNTRY

FIRE DEPARTMENT

POLICE

MEDICAL EMERGENCY

MARITIME SEARCH AND RESCUE

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT OF ZAGREB

01 4562 222

AIRPORT OF SPLIT

02 1203 555

JADROLINIJA

51 666 111

TOURIST INFORMATION

62 999 999

drinks, plus getting to know and chatting with their producers.

Often, in train, buses and ferries stations, you can find newspapers, pens, sun glasses, candy, chocolate, phone cards, batteries, recharging for mobile phones and even tickets for local buses being sold in small stands. They are known as Tisaks. Most of them are closed during the entire or part of Sundays.

CURRENCYThe official currency of Croatia is Kuna. Foreign currencies can be exchanged in banks, currency exchange offices, post offices and in most tourist information offices and hotels.

Credit cards (Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners) are accepted in almost all commercial establishments.

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