One of the best trips you can make in the next few months is visiting Croatia in winter due to its uniqueness. This is because, during the colder months of winter, Croatia turns into a wonderland and will await a lot of stunning experiences. Hence, today in this blog, we will be explaining what experiences you will be getting when you go to this beautiful country in winter.
Also, if you have any queries about to apply for Croatia Visa, we will discuss them before the end of this blog.
Why visit Croatia in Winter
There is a hell and heaven difference in experience from Croatia in winter to the summer season. The crowd of tourists that visit the main cities like Dubrovnik and Split during the warmer months is very less during winter which will create a relaxed atmosphere for you. If you are looking for a somewhat quieter, intimate experience then a trip to Croatia in winter is your best bet.
Did you know that Croatia is also a kind of place that is budget-friendly? You get accommodation at a cheaper price, flight tickets with lower charges and lots of off-season deals. There is loads of natural beauty and culture with rich traditions and lovely festival celebrations available when you visit the coastal towns or the inland regions in winter when it is snowing.
Weather: What to expect
Croatia in winter usually stay in the months between December to February, but there will be a slight variation in different regions, such as:
- Coastal Area such as Dubrovnik, Split: The weather will be mildly cold with some rainfall, with temperatures mostly staying between 5 degrees Celsius and 15 degrees Celsius. Snow is usually rare in this region but occasionally it happens.
- Inland Areas such as Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes: The weather in these regions are very cold. It goes to such an extent that temperatures often dip below freezing point. You will see a lot of snowfall happening and the landscapes will absolutely look spectacular.
Hence, it is essential that you wear layers of clothing to stay warm. The further inland you go, the layers of clothing have to increase. While packing, don’t forget to put on a hat, gloves, warm sweaters and a waterproof jacket.
Top Things to do in Croatia during winter
Every traveler can do diverse kinds of activities in Croatia in winter. Some of the best experiences that you add during your trip are:
Explore the Christmas Markets
During Croatia in winter, you mustn’t miss the Christmas markets at all in the holiday season. One of the most famous places is in Zagreb. Even worldwide, this place is known as the best Christmas market in Europe. Right from the months of mid-November to early January, the city becomes lively with beautifully decorated stalls selling traditional foods, local crafts and mulled wine.
Try even to visit the Christmas markets in Dubrovnik and Split as well. There will be a lot of festive treats and music available which will make the winter nights absolutely magical.
Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
Generally, Plitvice Lakes is a popular place in the months of summer, but during your visit to Croatia in winter, it will surely be a unique experience. The park will look like a frozen wonderland. You will see waterfalls that have turned into ice and pathways covered with white snow. It is a magnificent spot for people who would like to take lots of photos and view nature. Just remember to check the weather conditions before you so that at a certain time, the park is inaccessible due to heavy snowfall.
Skiing and Snowboarding in the Mountains
Well skiing is not so common in Croatia in winter but there are some resorts available which allow a lot of winter sports. There is one place called Sljeme, that is located near Zagreb. You can do skiing and snowboarding there for people with beginner skillset to experience lever skiers. The other one is Platak near Rijeka. When you come here you will be able to get amazing views of the seas from slopes.
Enjoy a Relaxing Spa Experience
One of the ideal times when you visit Croatia in winter is that you will encounter a lot of wellness centers and spas. Places like Istria and Zagre are full of them. The spa hotels are of high quality. Then even allow thermal baths and saunas that will help you to warm and relax after doing a lot of sightseeing.
Cultural Tours and Museum Visits
While in cold weather, most of the time, we feel like staying indoors. Hence, in Croatia in winter, one of the best ways to spend time is to check out the rich history and culture of Croatia by going to the museums and historical sites. Some of the must-visit places are the Zagreb’s Museum of Broken Relationships and the Dubrovnik City Walls Museum. And if you are more interested in the genre of art, then you should go to the Museum of Contemporary Art in Zagreb.
Festivals and Events to Experience
When you are done with sight seeing of the quiet landscapes in Croatia in winter, it is time to experience the celebrations and local events that will sure make you excited about.
- Advent in Zagreb: We have already discussed that the Christmas market in Zagreb is the most famous one. It gives you an astounding experience. You can enjoy some concerts, eat food from the stalls, do some ice skating and many more. The lights and decorations will make you feel like you are in a fairy tale.
- Dubrovnik Winter Festival: The festival in Dubrovnik is a lot of fun and immersive. You will have concerts, plays alongside festive food that brings the charm of the old town to life.
- Carnival Season in the month of January to February: There is a place called Rijeka where the vibrant carnival takes place in Croatia in winter. In this festival there will be a lot of parades, musics by the performers dressed in costumes.
Local Winter Cuisine
No trip is complete without tasting the delicious local dishes. And in Croatia in Winter you get to experience the traditional dishes that will make you feel warm from inside.
- Sarma: It is a kind of dish prepared with cabbage leaves. Inside, it is stuffed with shredded meat and rice. Finally, it is cooked with savoury tomato sauce.
- Cobanac: It is a traditional stew that is prepared with meat. It has a rich flavor which feels very tasty during the chilly days.
- Fritule: Finally, some dessert to sweeten your mouth. Presenting the pastries which look like mini doughnuts and sprinkled with sugar powder on the outside. This dish is greatly enjoyed during the holiday season.
Tip: Always try to pair these dishes with a glass of mulled wine or a hot herbal tea. It will make your time absolutely perfect.
Travel Tips for a Winter Trip to Croatia
- Keep your place for Shorter Days: It is very normal that in Croatia in Winter the days are very short. So plan your visit and sightseeing accordingly so that you can complete it in the daylight hours.
- Check Local events: Wherever you visit, keep your eyes open for any nearby festivals and events that are happening in your place so that you can have an amazing experience.
- Be Prepared for Road Conditions: If you are renting any car, be prepared for icy cars. It should be absolutely ensured that the vehicle has winter tires and snow chains to avoid any mishap.
Apply Croatia Visa from UK through our professional assistance
Are you facing any difficulty getting a online Croatia Visa to visit Croatia in winter? If yes, then worry not. You can use our professional expertise of CROATIA VISA UK. Just click on the Apply Online tab. Continue filling in your details in the list of forms that will appear. Make the payment online before submission. You will be contacted by our staff members immediately to discuss everything to book your Visa appointment date. Your satisfaction is our top priority.
Conclusion
Hence, in conclusion, visiting Croatia in winter will surely be a refreshing change from the usual destinations. Whether you want to explore the Christmas markets, wander around the historical towns under the snow, or relax and enjoy the view while sipping mulled wine with the festivals related to local tradition, it will be a sort of unique experience to see the quieter side of Croatia. Mixing everything in one trip can make it a magical and memorable experience for you.
