In this blog post we will show you why a dental vacation in Croatia will be an unforgettable experience and the best decision you’ve ever made.
Here in Croatia we don’t only have expert dentists, but Croatia will offer you everything you’ll need for an unforgettable dental vacation. Unlike other popular destinations for dental tourism, Croatia is still a fresh touristic destination on the rise, with a lot of new things to discover.
Compared to other, stronger touristic destinations, Croatia has still a lot of untouched and undiscovered places and a lot of authenticity to offer. Last year 14 million people visited Croatia touristically and we think you should be one of them!
But what to visit on your stay in Croatia?
Well, you could probably decide what to see and where to go by throwing a dart on a map without much disappointment. However, to make it easier for you, let us introduce you to some of the most fabulous places and things you just have to see and explore.
Explore the breathtaking Croatian coastline
As we mentioned before, Croatia is the ideal country for a dental holiday. When asked about what associations they have when hearing the word “Croatia”, most people immediately say summer destination, beaches, sea, islands. That’s why we’ll introduce you to our breathtaking 6,000 kilometres of coastline first.
Croatia’s most famous coastal regions are Istria and Dalmatia. No matter what you choose, what awaits you are postcard views, amazing pebbled and sandy beaches and the crystal blue sea.
The best thing is that the beaches in Croatia are so diverse, you can really find something for everyone's taste.
Fancy a beach with a great view on Croatia’s most famous old town? Then Banje beach in Dubrovnik is your right choice.
Or would you rather relax on a beach off the beaten track? Then you should visit Island Korčula.
You prefer pebbled beaches? Brela!
Sandy beach? Sakarun!
Party beach? Zrće!
See, we didn’t fib when we said that there’s really something for everyone.
Another good news is that most beaches in Croatia have blue-flag status, which means that on these beaches water quality, safety and services are guaranteed, so nothing can stop you from having the perfect vacation!
Enjoy unspoiled nature
Yes, it’s true, every country in the world has amazing natural sites, but Croatia takes natural beauty to a whole new level! Did you know that Croatia is ecologically one of the best preserved parts in Europe? Here, almost 10% of the country is under protection!
There are 11 nature parks and 8 national parks in Croatia, amongst which are Plitvice lakes, a natural good recognized by UNESCO.
This national park is built up of 16 lakes and waterfalls. It is a part of the Dinaric karst area and one of the most impressive and unique karst territories in the world. The lakes are formed by natural Travertine dams and their mesmerizing colours range from turquoise, azure blue, light grey and green.
Due to its specific geology, geomorphology and hydrology, Plitvice lakes are not only a paradise for tourists, but also for scientologists, geologists and hobby naturalists.
As a result of its many forests and abundant nature, Plitvice lakes are home to many wildlife species such as brown bears, lynx, wolves and deers. What is more, because of its large number and diversity of higher plant flora, its presence of relict, endemic, rare and protected species, the park is one of the most valuable floristic areas not only in Europe, but in the whole world.
In case that you’re into hiking, then you will absolutely adore the national park Northern Velebit. Mountaineers consider this national park the Croatian jewel of all mountains, due to its exceptional flora and stunning landscapes.
Be honest, have you ever been hiking on a mountain that offers your postcard views from its peaks on the sea? This is a real rarity and will absolutely take your breath away.
If you’re planning to visit one of these places make sure to take a camera with you or that your mobile phone has enough battery, because you will want to take millions of pictures. Believe us - been there, done that.
Discover historic places and culture heritage on every step
If you’re into art, culture and history, then Croatia surely is the place to be! Even though Croatia is a small country, it’s marked by a turbulent and extensive history, which is why you can find historic remains on every step. Even UNESCO recognized its cultural heritage and added them to its World Heritage list.
Here a list of all UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia:
- Dubrovnik Old Town
- Diocletian Palace and Medieval Split
- Historical Core of Trogir
- Early-Christian Euphrasius Basilica Complex in Poreč
- St. Jacob’s Cathedral in Šibenik
- The Starigrad Plain on the Island of Hvar
- Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Stećci - Medieval Tombstones
In Croatia, people attach a lot of importance to their cultural heritage, what doesn’t go unrecognized by UNESCO either. That’s why there’s a long list of intangible cultural heritage in Croatia, here are a few:
- The Mediterranean diet (our favourite 😇)
This deals with much more than just delicious sea food. The Mediterranean diet covers a set of skills, knowledge, rituals, symbols and traditions concerning crops, harvesting, fishing, animal husbandry, conservation, cooking and most importantly - the sharing and consumption of food. In Croatia, eating together is the foundation of the cultural identity. It’s more than just sharing some food, it’s about social exchange and communication and emphasizes values of hospitality, neighbourliness, intercultural dialogue and creativity.
- Traditional Manufacturing of Children’s Wooden Toys in Hrvatsko Zagorje
Wooden children’s toys have a long history in Hrvatsko Zagorje, a region in the North of Croatia. What’s special about these toys is that there can never be two identical toys, as they are all handmade. Another characteristic is that they’re traditionally handmade by men and mostly painted by women. - Bećarac singing and playing from Eastern Croatia
Bećarac music is popular throughout eastern Croatia and deeply rooted in the cultures of Slavonia, Baranja and Srijem. Even though you might not speak Croatian, you should not miss the chance listening to this cheerful and humorous form of folk-song.
Cuisine that will satisfy even the most sophisticated foodies
Is there a better way to get to know a country than by trying its traditional food? No matter if you’re in the very South of Croatia, the North, Dalmatia, Istria, Slavonia, Zagreb… Literally every corner of this country has its own mouthwatering specialities.
Here’s a list of the most essential Croatian dishes you absolutely have to try while staying in Croatia:
- Prosciutto
- Pašticada, a Dalmatian stew from the Split area
- Black risotto
- Fish paprikaš from Slavonia, a fish stew with hot pepper
- Maraschino
- Kulen, a spicy sausage
- Fritule, a deep-fried pastry
- Grilled fish and seafood
- Zagorski štrukli, a dough filled with fresh cottage cheese
A dental vacation in Croatia sounds just amazing, doesn’t it? Get in touch with us, so we can arrange your first examination and arrange your travel details!