Why should you visit Croatia? Instead of asking yourself this, ask yourself – why not? After all, Croatia is certainly an excellent travel destination, with plenty to offer to make your vacation truly unforgettable.

1. Historical Sites

As a testament to its rich history, Croatia has five World Heritage Sites of cultural and historical importance. The most popular one is Palace of Diocletian in the heart of Split. As implied, this palace was built by Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, both as a luxurious residence and as a military fortress. As the former, it has a magnificent cathedral and many apartments with elaborate facades which have been converted into shops and cafes, and as the latter, it has towers that offer spectacular views of the Adriatic, as well as other fortifications. Its waterfront promenade is also a lovely place for a stroll, whether by day or by the light of the moon.

Make sure you visit the other World Heritage Sites, too, namely the old cities of Dubrovnik and Trogir, and the magnificent churches in Porec and Sibenik. Although not in the list, the arena and forum in Pula and the fortress in Medvedgrad are also not to be missed.

2. Museums

The museums in Croatia are just as interesting. Take the Archaeological Museum in Split, for example, which is just near the Diocletian’s Palace. This is the oldest museum in the country and has an extensive collection of religious relics and historical artifacts. You might also want to visit the Croatian History Museum which is housed in a beautiful Baroque palace or walk across the ruins at the Audatonia Archaeological Park. The old city of Zagreb is just like a large open-air museum, too, with its old walls and historic monuments, while the 13th century Gothic Trakoscan Castle has been converted into a medieval museum. the Muzej Mimara is a must-see for art enthusiasts.

3. Natural Scenery

Croatia is not just rich in history, but also in spectacular natural scenery. For the best, visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park, which is also a World Heritage Site. Here, you will find many hiking trails that will lead you beside turquoise lakes, between majestic mountains and across lush forests. You will also find a few waterfalls that are sure to take your breath away. Hvar Island is also a great destination for nature lovers, especially bird watchers, and is also known for its lavender plantations.

4. Beaches

The reason why most people visit Croatia, though, is because of its beaches – some sandy, some pebbly but all offering wonderful opportunities for recreation and relaxation. The most popular one is Brela Beach, as well as the beaches on its beautiful islands like Rab, Cres, Brac, Korcula and Mljet. There are also naturist beaches and those that are havens for windsurfers.

5. Great Food

That’s right, Croatia offers some mouth-watering dishes, too. If you love seafood, then you will be delighted to know seafood platters are something you can find almost everywhere and if you’d rather have meat, there are plenty of veal steaks, roast pork and grilled meat on skewers to go around. Goulash, pasta and sausages are popular, too, along with sweet pastries for dessert and Rakija or local fruit brandy for drink. If you don’t like brandy, there are many different wines to choose from.

If you like drinking coffee, you’ll be happy to know that Croatia is a nation of coffee drinkers, too, which is why you will find a cafe almost everywhere when you visit Croatia. Drink of the charm, the views and the warmth of the people of Croatia as you take part in its cafe culture.

Isabella Olsen is a travel writer who has toured major destinations worldwide, including many European countries by car. To book a car rental Latvia, or learn more about cheap car hire worldwide, visit www.zencarhire.com