Let's go to Croatia!
When thinking of this country, I always imagined Split or Dubrovnik as the main places worth seeing.
They are magnificent though and probably, I will create a separate post for them, however, I think in Croatia there are plenty of unique places being forgotten, which are not often chosen as tourist destinations.
Let's start with Porec. The ancient town of Poreč, one of Croatia's most popular tourist destinations, is located on the western coast of the Istrian peninsula. It's attractive historic centre features the most distinctive monument of early Byzantine art in the Mediterranean area: the 6th-century Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It offers a combination of relaxation on the well-tended beaches with an exploration of the natural and historic attractions of Poreč and it's surroundings.
I stayed in Porec for 2 weeks and due to Christmas season, I was even able to catch the transformation of this heart :)
What is very interesting, looking closely, you are able to spot Venice on the other side of the coast. Sadly, I was extremely busy with my work at that time, so I didn't have many chances to explore, but I am definitely going to be back. The old town is a must-see for sure!
Next highly recommended place is Rovinj. We were damn lucky to get over 20 degrees in December, while Poland was full of snow.
Rovinj is a city on the western coast of Istria and it is together with Porec as one of the leading tourist destinations on the Adriatic thanks to its healthy, mediterranean climate.
According to research, Rovinj has the best microclimate thanks to which tourism started developing in the 19th century. Today, Rovinj has around 14 000 inhabitants and tourism and industry are the main source of income.
The Old City is situated on a peninsula which was till 1763 actually an island. Since the space on the island was limited, the historical centre has a unique construction style; narrow streets, narrow houses and small squares.
The town was being prepared for Christmas, so we could see some lovely decorations.
Nowadays, Rovinj still benefits from Italian tourism and influence. During the summertime, huge fast boats and ferries from Venice bring daily tons of tourists to Istria.
From Rovinj, we drove to Novalja, which was a great experience, tbh I wasn't aware that its an island, very often we drive spontaneously and suddenly we noticed the ferry was added to our route. What a great experience that was, even in December, ferries run every hour, and the price is very reasonable.
I need to admit that I never heard of Novalija before. We spent 3 weeks there in December, where it was quiet (not counting the New Years' Eve, where the whole island suddenly became crowded for the celebrations).
Novalja is the largest resort on the island, situated 25 km from Pag city.
A vibrant place full of sizzling nightlife, lively beach bars and numerous party spots. Only 3 kilometres outside the town you will find Zrce, the biggest party place in Croatia during the summer months. This party beach is particularly famous for world-known underground dance music DJs and festivals.
While we were there, the weather wasn't the greatest, but I definitely want to be back there during summer. I had the best pizza in my life (and believe I try local pizza almost everywhere I go, but this one was like a jackpot. If you ever happen to be in Novalija, you MUST try'Pod Zvon'. You won't regret a thing!
Enjoy ;-)
