Whoever thinks you have to go to tropical places for a visit to paradise has never been to Croatia! The Croatian archipelago is the second largest in the Mediterranean with over 1000 islands, of which only 50 are inhabited. Every island, rock or reef has its own charm. From large to small, from a rich history and architecture to extensive forests and pristine beaches, from densely populated or uninhabited; there is something for everyone. And the most beautiful? You don't have to travel far at all, because the nearest islands are only a day's drive by car or 2 hours by plane from the Benelux.
1. Excellent accessibility
With 1244 islands scattered in the azure blue waters along the coastline of Croatia, it is difficult to choose one island. Fortunately, you don't have to, because the transport options to and from, but also between the different islands are excellent. Take your car and take a ferry to an island of your choice, take the fast passenger catamaran and go from one island to another, book a cruise or go on a multi-day exploration by sailboat. Would you rather stay with both feet on land? Then choose one of the islands that are connected to the mainland by a bridge.
2. Few COVID-19 infections
The islands located off the coast of Croatia have relatively few infections with COVID-19. However, this is currently difficult to see, because the infection rate in Croatia is currently indicated per region and not per island. On this website you can find up-to-date information about the current access procedures. Here, in addition to information about the epidemiological situation of the provinces, travelers will soon have access to special information about the COVID-19 situation on Croatian islands in particular.
3. Pristine beaches
If you are looking for a paradise on earth, you should definitely travel to Croatia. For example, visit the most remote island of Croatia, Vis. From Split you sail in 2.5 hours with a ferry to the port of the island from where you can discover numerous caves and hidden idyllic beaches. For the truly idyllic spots you can go to the beach Stiniva or Stoncica or visit the adjacent Blue Cave by boat.
Those who prefer a closer look can, for example, visit the beautiful smooth pebble beaches on the island of Brač, the sandy beach Sakarun on Dugi otok or the Rajska plaža (Paradise Beach) in Lopar on the island of Rab.
4. Flavors of Paradise
On the islands of Croatia you will find the most diverse and special dishes and ingredients to spoil the taste buds. Thus comes from the island of Pag, the paški sir. This cheese, especially from cheese dairies in Kolan, is so popular that it is usually sold after a few months of maturing. On the rare occasions when it can mature for more than a year, it is one of the best sheep cheeses in the world.
In the Kvarner region, which includes the largest Croatian islands Cres and Krk, you can get the largest and tastiest shrimps from the Adriatic. The island of Cres is known for its tender, juicy lamb. And the best wines from Croatia come from the vineyards on the Dalmatian islands of Hvar, Brač, Vis, Korčula.
5. Diversity of activities
The island of Brač is perfect for water sports enthusiasts. You can enjoy windsurfing, kite surfing, diving, water skiing, kayaking or jet skiing at the Zlatni rat beach with a view of the island. Those who prefer activities on land can also visit the islands. Brač and Krk, for example, have several hundred kilometers of cycling and hiking trails. Because of the beautiful views and accessibility, Osorščica on Lošinj is one of the most attractive peaks you will find on the Croatian islands. You can walk via marked mountain trails from Osor or Nerezine to the mountain hut Sveti Gaudent, located on the highest peak Televrin (588 m).
COVID 19 update:
Relaxation of entry conditions
From April 1, the Croatian government has made it easier for tourists to visit the country. Vaccinated tourists, tourists who have recovered from a COVID-19 infection or who show a negative PCR test or antigen test can travel to Croatia.
From April 1, 2021, foreign tourists from the European Union must present a negative PCR test or rapid antigen test, which is less than 48 hours old, to enter Croatia. People who have been infected with and recovered from COVID-19 in the past six months, as well as those who have been vaccinated, are conditionally exempt from the requirement to present a negative PCR test and can enter Croatia. However, tourists arriving with the results of an antigen test and staying in Croatia for more than 10 days must retest within 10 days of arrival. Children under the age of 7 accompanied by their parents or legal representative who meet the conditions for entry into Croatia are exempt from the test requirement. Travelers can find up-to-date information about current entry procedures on the website https://www.croatia.hr/nl-NL/coronavirus-2019-ncov-q-and-a-.
