Franko

If you were to blink for a second and think you're in Italy, you would very much be forgiven as, standing in front of the Cathedral of St James in Šibenik, Croatia, conjures the incredible elegance and beauty of the great Renaissance cities of the world. This architectural gem is one of the most stunning buildings in the country and is the crowning pearl of this lovely seaside city, which is saying something as Šibenik itself is quite the beauty in its own right. Located in central Dalmatia, where the river Krka meets the Adriatic, it is an often overlooked destination by tourists in favour of some of the more famous cities in Croatia but the discerning visitor will take note: it is the oldest native Croatian city, the first city in the world to have a system of electric street lights, boasts lovely views out onto the Adriatic, has some incredible beaches, is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites (the cathedral being one of them), hosts many interesting festivals throughout the year, and remains an authentic little gem that has gone untainted by the outside world. The Cathedral is the final flourish, the cherry on top of the pretty cityscape of Šibenik, that completes the picture and makes it such a very appealing place to holiday. If you have found a vacation rental in Šibenik, you should make sure to pencil in some time to check it out and admire the wonderful feat of fifteenth century architecture that it is.

While many think of Croatia immediately as a destination for sun holidays and seaside getaways, for ancient and picturesque harbour cities, and perfect beach resorts, there is, of course, much more to the country than that. Croatia has a landscape that is far more varied than these immediate associations belie and far more astoundingly, jaw-droppingly beautiful than most are aware of. There are towering peaks, forests full of butterflies, endless little islands that are world unto themselves, impressive waterfalls that thunder past, and lots of national parks that protect natural phenomena, flora, and fauna. If you are interested in exploration and seeing the great bounty of the natural world with your own eyes, then Croatia is likely a destination that will delight. Look past the stereotypical, if charming, appeals of Croatia as a holiday destination and see how much more it has to offer the discerning and adventurous tourist!

If you have found a vacation rental in Sibenik and are planning on exploring the archipelago, you might be looking for different towns, attractions, areas, and islands to visit on day trips. While there are many to choose from, one of the most unique and interesting spots to hit up must be the island of Zlarin. It is a must-see for those interested in taking care of the environment and environmental policies around the globe as it has recently been announced to be Croatia’s first zero waste, plastic-free island! Incredibly beautiful as it is, this latest announcement only makes the stunning island all the more appealing and is certain to ensure that it remains an unspoiled gem.

Croatia is increasingly famous as a destination for stunning landscapes beyond the crystal-clear seas, incredible rock formations, soft white sandy beaches, diverse marine life and more of her perfect and renowned seaside resorts and cities. In addition to these wonderful coastal scenes, there are plenty of jaw-dropping vistas and awe-inspiring places to be explored. So, on your next vacation in Croatia, be sure to pack your activewear and hiking boots and get out into all of that outstanding natural bounty.