Croatia
Or, if you want to sound like a local....Hrvatska
Must-Dos While Visiting Croatia
Croatia is more than just Game of Thrones and crystal-blue water—though yes, definitely do the Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik if you're a fan (or even if you're not, honestly—those locations are stunning). Here are the can't-miss experiences that made our trip unforgettable:
🏰 Wander the Walls of Dubrovnik
Start early to beat the crowds and the heat. Walk the ancient city walls for jaw-dropping views of the Adriatic and terracotta rooftops below. Bonus: perfect photo ops around every turn.
🍸 Eat, Drink, and Treat Yourself
Umi Teppanyaki at Rixos Dubrovnik – A total splurge and worth every euro. It's dinner and a show—expect high-end teppanyaki with sweeping sea views.
Mr. Foster Bar – Low-key yet stylish spot in Dubrovnik for craft cocktails or an expertly made espresso. Great vibes, even better drinks.
Restaurant & Bar Rudjer – Tucked inside the city walls, this is one of those places where the ambiance and the food are equally memorable.
Taj Mahal (yes, in Dubrovnik!) – Don’t let the name fool you. This Michelin-recommended spot specializes in Bosnian cuisine. Order the ćevapi and thank me later.
🛶 Get Out on the Water
Whether it’s a sea kayaking tour around Lokrum Island or a sunset boat cruise, seeing Croatia from the water is a must. For a bit of fun, try a blue cave tour from Split if you’re extending your trip north.
🚌 Day Trip It Right
Ston & Mali Ston – Go for the oysters, stay for the salt flats and the scenic fortress walls you can climb. Easy to reach and often overlooked.
Montenegro & Bosnia – Absolutely worth visiting, but we recommend a small-group guided tour (skip the massive bus tours). You’ll avoid border-crossing drama and passport queues.
⚠️ Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Croatia
Even paradise has its quirks. Here’s what we wish we knew before our first trip:
❌ Thinking Dubrovnik Is Just a Day Trip
Many cruise travelers blitz through Dubrovnik in a few hours, but don’t be that person. Stay a few nights to actually feel the city. Watch it change after the cruise crowds leave—it's magical.
❌ Assuming You Can Check In Online
Heads-up: Dubrovnik Airport does not allow online check-in when you are departing. You’ll need to do it in person, so plan to arrive early. Yes, even if you're a pro traveler who usually glides through security with time to spare.
❌ Renting a Car Without Doing a Bit of Homework
Driving in Croatia is doable, but not exactly chill in busy areas. Be aware of:
National speed limits (look for signs with a circle and a slash—no numbers, just vibes).
Border crossings – Don’t try driving your rental car into Bosnia or Montenegro unless you want paperwork and headaches. Book a tour instead.
❌ Booking Massive Bus Tours
Unless you love long lines and slow-moving groups, avoid the huge bus tours—especially to Montenegro or Mostar. Go small, go early, and bring your passport.
❌ Roller Suitcases Inside the City Walls
Seriously. It is not allowed. Pack your things in luggage you can carry!
🧭 Rhodes Traveled: Real Tips from My Journey
This is the section where I spill the truth behind the Instagram-perfect shots:
😐 The People Seem Cold… But Aren’t
Croatians are tall, intense-looking, and often have what I lovingly call “Resting Balkan Face.” Don’t be put off—they’re actually warm, helpful, and kind once you break the ice. Just don’t expect American-style chit-chat.
✨ You Don’t Need to Do Everything
Don’t stress about ticking every island off your list. Croatia is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Take time for long dinners, swims, and wandering old towns.
🚐 Small Tours Are the Sweet Spot
For those day trips beyond Dubrovnik (like Ston, Mostar, or Kotor), book small-group tours. You’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring.
🧳 Stay Inside the Walls… While You Still Can
If you’ve ever dreamed of sleeping inside Dubrovnik’s old city walls, don’t wait too long—the clock might be ticking. The city’s already banned wheeled suitcases (yep, no roller bags allowed inside the Old Town), and the mayor is pushing for tighter restrictions on short-term rentals to preserve local life.
There’s talk of eventually phasing out Airbnbs and vacation stays within the walls altogether. So, if staying in a 700-year-old stone building steps from a medieval alley sounds like your thing (and it should), go now.
We stayed at Celenga Apartments and loved it—central, quiet, and beautifully done. Total gem.
