autoeurope

Photo by Diego Delso

One of the hottest travel destinations in Europe is Croatia. With stunning beaches and hip resorts along the Adriatic, Croatia has long been one of the most popular travel destinations for travelers from Europe, but now Americans and others are catching on.

Offering a similar climate, natural beauty and a rich cultural history that's on part with Italy, Croatia, located on the opposite side of the Adriatic Sea, is more affordable to travel to, and with a low-cost car rental, you can tour Croatia, and easily slip across the border into neighboring Slovenia, Italy, or Bosnia and Herzegovinia.

From Zagreb (the capital city where you'll find the cheapest international flights from the US), it's just over 4 hours to Venice, Italy, under 2 hours to Ljubljana, Slovenia, and 5 hours to the historic city of Sarajevo.

What's more, from Zagreb you can easily drive to tourist destinations in Croatia, including historic Dubrovnik on the southern coast, an iconic filming location for the popular HBO series Game of Thrones.

Historic Zagreb

Zagreb is not only the capital city, but it is also Croatia's largest urban center, and the most popular inland destination for international travelers.

Like most of Croatia, the city offers a medley of historical influence, including most significantly a Roman one, which is evident in some of the city's iconic structures. The city hosts approximately one million international travelers each year, with Austrian, German, and Italian visitors making up the bulk of that (though in recent years, it has emerged as a hot destination for American travelers as well).

If you visit, before leaving Zagreb by car to tour the surrounding Croatian destinations and nearby international cities of Ljubljana, Venice, and Sarajevo, be sure to stop in Ban Jelacic Square, a medieval wonder which offers visitors the opportunity to tour museums, galleries, historic churches and stunning palaces.

Slow Food & Gastronomy

Foodies will love Zagreb pubs and eateries which offer the opportunity to sample a range of both national and international favorites.

If you want a classic Croatian dish during your visit to Zagreb, order mlinci (a pasta dish) with turkey, duck (recommended) or goose. Kremsnite (a rich layered pastry) or orehnjaca (a walnut roll) are my favorite Croatian desserts.