The Romans were here and they left behind several of their buildings. In cities like Zadar, Pula, Split and Dubrovnik, you will find some fantastic old city areas and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Diocletian’s Palace and Temple of Jupiter in Split and the Old City of Dubrovnik.
Nevertheless, Croatia is more than marvelous old cities. With hot summers, a long coastline and over 1.000 islands, there are plenty of opportunities for a swim in the Adriatic Sea. Alternatively, go inland and discover the astonishing nature, visit Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park.
Weather and Climate
Best time to visit Croatia is from May to October.
Along the coast and on the Istria peninsular, summers are hot and often dry, and winters are mild with some rainfall; the average temperature in Split in January is 7°C (44,6°F) and in July 25°C (77°F). Croatia’s central and eastern parts have a more temperate climate, and the difference between winter and summer temperatures increases, the further you go east. Zagreb is 0°C (32°F) in January and 21°C (70°F) in July.
The precipitation is highest on the mountains facing west.
The average precipitation during January and July respectively: Dubrovnik 139 mm. (5,5 in.) and 26 mm. (1 in.), Split 80 mm. (3,1 in.) and 28 mm. (1.1 in.), Pula 25 mm. (1 in.) and 30 mm. (1,2 in.), Zagreb 38 mm. (1,5 in.) and 72 mm. (2,8 in.),
Geography
Croatia is defined by its location, as a part of Central Europe and southeastern part of the Balkans. Croatia’s territory covers 56.594 sq. Km. (21.851 sq. Miles). It’s surrounded by Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia in the east, Slovenia in the west, Hungary in the north and Montenegro and the Adriatic Sea in the south.
The Pannonian Basin and the Dinaric Alps represent major parts of Croatia. Lowlands with increases of less than 200 metres (656 ft.) above sea level make up the majority of Croatia, covering 54% of the country. The Dinaric Alps contain the highest mountain in Croatia at 1.831 metres (6.007 ft.); Dinara, and all other mountains in Croatia higher than 1.500 metres (492 ft.).
Croatia’s territory is a part of the Black Sea drainage area. The area includes the largest rivers flowing into the country: the Danube, Sava, Drava, Kupa and Mur. The river Korana provides water to the world-famous Plitvice Lakes National Park. Plitvice Lakes consist of 16 lakes, well-known for their distinctive colors, ranging from turquoise to mint green, gray or blue and connected by waterfalls.
5 things Croatia is known for, outside Croatia.
- Nikola Tesla (Inventor, electrical engineer. 1856-1943)
- Tie (Necktie, invented in the 17th century)
- Zinfandel (Wine grape, 15th century)
- Plitvice Lakes National Park (UNESCO World Heritage)
- Hum (The world’s smallest town, population 21, dating back to the 12th century)
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