Thursday, 10 March 2022

First Time in Croatia: Tame Impala at Pula Arena on August 17!

March 10, 2022 - One of the biggest concerts in Croatia this year has been announced - you won't want to miss Tame Impala at Pula Arena on August 17! 

For the first time in Croatia, the Australian band Tame Impala, which revolutionized rock with its new sound, will perform at the Pula Arena on August 17, 2022.

Tame Impala is a psychedelic music project by Australian multi-instrumentalist Kevin Parker. In his studio, Parker writes, records, performs and produces all the music of the Tame Impala project. On tour, Tame Impala consists of Parker (guitar, vocals), Dominic Simper (guitar, synthesizer), Jay Watson (synthesizer, vocals, guitar), Cam Avery (bass guitar, vocals), and Julien Barbagallo (drums, vocals).

Tame Impala won the BRIT Award for Best International Band in 2016, and in 2021 they were nominated for Best Alternative Album - “The Slow Rush” and Best Rock Song for Song - “Lost In Yesterday” at the Grammy Awards. This was their third Grammy Award nomination in the Best Alternative Album category, and they were previously nominated with “Currents” and “Lonerism.” “The Slow Rush” was also nominated for two Billboard Music Awards and the American Music Award (AMA).

Tame Impala has headlined numerous festivals in recent years, including Splendor in the Grass, Coachella, Primavera, Lollapalooza, ACL, and many others. In addition, Parker is one of the most influential musical voices of the last decade. As a writer and producer, Parker has collaborated with The Weeknd, Travis Scott, SZA, Lady Gaga, Mark Ronson, Kanye West, Kali Uchis, Theophilus London, Miguel, A$AP Rocky, and many others.

“The Slow Rush” is Tama Impale’s fourth studio album. The album continues a series of great releases from the 2010 debuts “Innerspeaker,” “Lonerism” in 2012, and “Currents” in 2015. Released in February 2020, it has already collected over 1.3 billion streams. Reaching #1 on the charts of various countries, it was their highest-rated album to date in the US and the UK with 14 top 10 positions in the world. “The Slow Rush is an extremely detailed work,” writes Pitchfork. "I'm amazed that all the music and lyrics are exclusively Parker's work, every guitar chord and every turn of the knob he made."

Ticket prices range from 300 to 550 kuna and go on sale on Monday, March 14, 2022, at 11 am. Tickets can be purchased on Eventim. Ticket prices are 550 HRK for the loggia, 500 HRK for the floor, 480 HRK for the grandstand, and 300 HRK for the lawn. The ticket limit is 4 per order.

For more, check out our lifestyle section.

Thursday, 10 March 2022

4 Ryanair Pula Summer Flights Announced, Brussels Airlines Returns to Zadar

March 10, 2022 - The latest flight news to Croatia as four Ryanair Pula summer flights have been announced, and Brussels Airlines returns to Zadar Airport. 

Irish low-cost airline Ryanair will operate on four international routes from Pula Airport this summer. Namely, these are direct flights to destinations in Austria, Belgium, Poland, and the United Kingdom, reports Croatian Aviation.

The first line to London (Stansted Airport) will run from March 27, twice a week, on Thursdays and Sundays. From June 2, the third weekly flight is added, on Tuesdays, with this flight schedule remaining in force until the end of September. Two-weekly flights have been re-announced for October, with the last Ryanair flight to London on October 27. 

B937-800 aircraft with a capacity of 189 seats have been announced to London. A total of 29,862 seats are available between London and Pula on this Ryanair line.

The very next day, March 28, the line for Brussels Charleroi will start operating, with Ryanair announcing three weekly flights, on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, until October 28. B737-800 aircraft have also been announced on this route, with a total of 35,154 seats between Charleroi and Pula.

From June 1, the new Ryanair line between Pula and Vienna will start operating twice a week, on Wednesdays and Sundays, until September 28. A320 aircraft have been announced on this route.

On June 3, the last, fourth line to Pula, from Poznan, Poland, will start operating. Flights have also been announced twice a week, on Mondays and Fridays, until September 30. Between Pula, Poznan, and Vienna, the Irish airline is offering a total of 25,200 seats this summer.

On the four announced routes to Pula Airport, Ryanair offers a total of more than 90,000 seats (90,216), and with an average passenger cabin occupancy of 86% (data for February 2022), this airline could bring over 80,000 passengers to Pula this summer.

Belgian airline Brussels Airlines is introducing a scheduled flight between Brussels and Zadar in the upcoming summer flight schedule, reports Croatian Aviation.

The seasonal route between Zadar and Brussels was introduced by the Belgian national airline in the 2018 summer flight schedule, but the line was not in operation during the last two seasons due to the pandemic.

Although it did not announce the line in its initial summer announcement, Brussels Airlines subsequently released tickets for this line, which will start operating on May 7.

The flights will run once a week, every Saturday, and are currently scheduled until the end of the summer flight schedule (October 29). The A319 aircraft with a capacity of 141 seats will operate on the route. 

With the return of Brussels Airlines to Zadar Airport, Zagreb Airport remains the only destination in the country to which this airline has not returned after the lockdown in Europe. Zadar Airport, in addition to the Brussels Airlines line, also has a flight to Charleroi in the summer schedule, operated by Ryanair.

For more on flights to Croatia and other travel announcements, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

Wednesday, 9 March 2022

Pula Goes Green: Solar Panels to Be Installed on Public Buildings

March 9th, 2022 - The City of Pula plans to harness solar energy in order to make significant savings on electricity bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

The City of Pula is embracing green energy with its latest initiative that will see the roofs of public buildings fitted with solar panels.

Earlier this week, Pula Mayor Filip Zoričić met with representatives of the North-West Croatia Regional Energy Agency (REGEA). The City announced that an agreement was reached with the REGEA, who will provide technical support in the preparation of documentation for the solar project.

The City of Pula will be provided with detailed technical data required to implement roof solarization, along with insight into the overall potential of public buildings for the installation of photovoltaic panels, and the application of solar energy with the goal of making significant savings on electricity bills and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Roof solarization is part of the PVMAX project funded by the European Local Energy Assistance (ELENA), a technical assistance programme managed by the European Investment Bank (EIB).

The project will be implemented by the REGEA, and its total value is €1.98 million, intended for the preparation of technical documentation.


Wednesday, 9 March 2022

19 easyJet Summer Lines to Pula, Split, Dubrovnik Operate from End of March

March 9, 2022 - The latest flight news to Croatia as 19 easyJet summer lines to Pula, Split, and Dubrovnik begin at the end of the month! 

At the beginning of the summer flight schedule, British airline easyJet is introducing regular flights to Pula, Split and Dubrovnik airports. In the last week of March, easyJet will operate 44 return flights to three Croatian airports, reports Croatian Aviation.

easyJet will be a regular guest at the airports in Pula, Rijeka, Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik this summer. 

Pula lines
easyJet is announcing a total of 9 scheduled flights to Pula Airport this summer, from London, Amsterdam, Basel, Berlin, Bristol, Geneva, Glasgow, Luton and Paris. All lines, except those to and from London, will start operating in May and June.

As of March 28, a regular line between Pula and London (Gatwick Airport) will be introduced, which will run 3 times a week, every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday. 624 seats are available on this line for the first two rotations.

Rijeka and Zadar lines
Rijeka Airport will have two easyJet lines this summer, to London and Berlin, but they will start operating in May and June, respectively.

A total of 5 lines have been announced for Zadar, to Amsterdam, Basel, Berlin, London and Milan, but like Rijeka, some lines will start operating in May and some in June.

Split lines
For this summer season, 14 regular lines to Split Airport have been announced, and ten lines will start operating this month:

Amsterdam, from 28.03., five times a week,

Basel, from 27.03., daily,

Berlin, from 27.03., four times a week,

Bristol, from 27.03. four times a week,

Geneva, from 27.03., four times a week,

Glasgow, from 27.03., twice a week,

London, from 27.03., six times a week,

Manchester, from 29.03., three times a week,

Naples, from 28.03., four times a week,

Paris, from 29.03., twice a week.

In March alone, easyJet will operate a total of 29 return flights to Split Airport, and thus offer 4,524 seats in the last week of this month alone.

Lines to Luton, Lyon, Milan and Orly will start in May and June, and the number of weekly rotations on all lines will increase from week to week.

Dubrovnik lines
Dubrovnik Airport is a long-term easyJet destination in Croatia, and 8 international routes will depart from Dubrovnik in March for:

Amsterdam, from 27.03., twice a week,

Berlin, from 30.03., twice a week,

Bristol, from 27.03., three times a week,

Edinburgh, from 29.03., twice a week,

Geneva, from 29.03., twice a week,

London, from 27.03., five times a week,

Manchester, from 30.03., twice a week,

Naples, from March 29, three times a week.

easyJet will run 13 return flights to Dubrovnik in the last 5 days of March, with 2,028 seats on sale. Lines to Lyon, Nantes, Orly and Basel will start in May and June.

44 easyJet return flights from March 27 to 31 are a hint of a good summer season in which this well-known low-cost airline will significantly increase its market share compared to the previous two seasons. 

In the peak summer season, easyJet will operate on 42 scheduled international routes from five Croatian airports, but a detailed analysis of the schedule for May, June and July will be known in the weeks ahead, given that operational changes are certainly possible.

Airlines from the A320 family, type A319, A320 and A321NEO, which have a capacity of 156 to 235 seats at easyJet, have been announced on the routes.

For more on flights to Croatia and other travel announcements, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

Tuesday, 8 March 2022

Pula Urban Renewal Project: Pula's Ex-Military Facilities to Get Revamped

March the 8th, 2022 - The popular Istrian city of Pula has kicked off with the praiseworthy Pula Urban Renewal project which envisages the revamping of the city and wider area's multiple former military facilities.

As Morski writes, the City of Pula has launched the aforementioned Pula Urban Renewal project in order to encourage the further development of the city and its immediately surrounding areas through the reconstruction of neglected locations and the exploitation of the great potential that is ''locked up'' today in the former military areas in and around Pula.

The aim of the Pula Urban Renewal project is to encourage a new way of thinking about both the untapped potential and indeed the limitations of urban renewal processes and to show how it has its strong economic, environmental and human dimension to it. At the same time, the goal is to offer solutions in relation to institutional and implementation solutions of urban renewal across the whole of the Republic of Croatia, according to the Pula City Administration.

The Pula Urban Renewal project includes a comprehensive analysis of Pula: detailed spatial analyses, analyses of the urban context, economic activities and perspectives were also looked into and taken into account. More than twenty sites and buildings located in and around Pula with potential for urban renewal have been identified, from which three very different areas have been selected - Muzil, Hidrobaza and the Naval Hospital - for which development concepts and pre-feasibility studies are currently being prepared.

The Pula Urban Renewal project is otherwise being funded by a grant from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development through what's known as the Create Fund. The developer of the studies resulting from this project are being dealt with by an international team of experts consisting of Urbanex, KPMG and KCAP.

For more, make sure to check out our dedicated lifestyle section.

Friday, 25 February 2022

New Reserve Bench Installed at Pula Stadium, Fans Can't See the Pitch

February 25th, 2022 - Worth 150,000 kuna, the new structure obstructs the view from the first few rows of the stands

A new bench for substitute players was recently installed at the Aldo Drosina stadium in Pula, the home ground of NK Istra. However, it seems that something went awry as the bench was being built, as it now blocks the view of the pitch for some fans, reports Glas Istre.

Namely, the structure is too tall, 46 centimetres to be exact, and it extends 20 centimetres too far into the pitch, partially blocking the view from the stands.

The fans seated closest to the pitch in the west stand can’t properly watch the game anymore. Not to mention that the first few rows, located right behind the new substitutes' bench, are usually reserved for children and people with disabilities.

HNS has reportedly also lodged a complaint, as there are almost 20 metres of the side line not visible to VAR anymore due to faulty construction.

Glas Istre has unofficially learnt that an official letter was sent to the City of Pula by one of the leaders of the Pula SDP and a frequent visitor of Istra matches, Siniša Gordić. He wanted to know who would fix the mistake, at whose expense, and within what period.

His request was forwarded to the city company Pula Sport which is responsible for Pula stadium operations, including management and maintenance. Director of Pula Sport Mario Peruško in turn forwarded the letter to NK Istra 1961, who reportedly participated in the project by financing the bench construction and proposing the dimensions of the structure.

That being said, the procurement of materials, installation of the bench and supervision of works were carried out by Pula Sport, and it’s believed they should be held responsible for the outcome.

The company has admitted that an error had occurred, and announced that they’ll cooperate with the club to ‘find the best solution to the problem’.

 

Thursday, 24 February 2022

Norwegian Airlines Croatia Summer Flights Announced to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik and Pula!

February 24, 2022 - The latest flight news to Croatia as the Norwegian Airlines Croatia summer flights have been announced to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik and Pula this year. 

After SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Norwegian Airlines has announced its summer program, reports Croatian Aviation.

Namely, Norwegian has announced 17 regular international flights to four Croatian airports in the upcoming summer flight schedule - to Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik and Pula!

This well-known airline has confirmed its summer flight schedule, which will significantly increase the number of rotations and routes to Croatia compared to last year. In addition, the largest number of lines,  or 7, has been announced to Split Airport.

7 lines to Split
Bergen - Split, three times a week, from June 18 to August 13,

Copenhagen - Split, from two to seven times a week, May 3 to October 29,

Helsinki - Split, two to five times a week, from March 30 to October 29,

Oslo - Split, one to seven times a week, from April 23 to October 29,

Stavanger - Split, twice a week, from June 18 to August 13,

Stockholm - Split, two to five times a week, from May 4 to October 29,

Trondheim - Split, twice a week, from June 18 to August 13.

6 lines to Dubrovnik
Bergen - Dubrovnik, once a week, from May 18 to August 13,

Copenhagen - Dubrovnik, up to twice a week, from April 2 to October 29,

Helsinki - Dubrovnik, twice a week, from May 3 to October 29,

Oslo - Dubrovnik, two to seven times a week, from June 4 to October 29,

Stavanger - Dubrovnik, twice a week, from June 18 to August 13,

Stockholm - Dubrovnik, up to four times a week, from May 7 to October 15.

3 lines to Pula
Helsinki - Pula, once a week, from June 4 to August 6,

Oslo - Pula, twice a week, from June 1st to October 1st,

Stockholm - Pula, once a week, from June 10 to August 12.

1 line to Zagreb
Copenhagen - Zagreb, twice a week, from June 25 to August 13.

Norwegian will operate up to 55 times a week on 17 announced routes to Croatian airports, thus offering almost 21,000 seats in the peak summer season weekly. The schedule could still be reduced according to passenger demand and the pandemic.

Thus, with this summer flight schedule, flights from Stavanger, Helsinki, Bergen and Trondheim have been relaunched, while the airline also returns to Pula Airport. The Copenhagen-Zagreb line will run only twice a week, though Croatia Airlines also operates on this route throughout the year.

For more on flights to Croatia and other travel announcements, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

Monday, 21 February 2022

Zagreb to Dubrovnik: the Ultimate 10-day Road Trip Itinerary

21 February 2022 - It’s never the wrong time to start planning the perfect getaway to the paradise that is Croatia. We decided to give you a hand in planning the perfect 10-day road trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik (plus some bonus island time!) that showcases the best the country has to offer.

The best way to discover Croatia is by car, giving you the freedom to go off the beaten path and chart your own adventure around the country, all the way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

Before we jump into it, do be aware that most car rentals in Croatia are manual transmissions! Automatic cars are available for rent, though mostly by larger rental companies like Sixt, and are more expensive.

If you’re not a confident driver, no need to worry, there are plenty of private bus companies that run daily trips to most cities and tourist attractions during the high season (June - September). In larger cities such as Zagreb and Split, bus schedules are also available online. Transfers between major ports and the islands are also regularly serviced by ferries and catamarans.

Day 1: Zagreb

Welcome to Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia! Nicknamed the city of museums, Zagreb is home to over a dozen award-winning museums such as the Archeological Museum, with over 450,000 artifacts and monuments.

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The gorgeous buildings of Upper Town in Zagreb. Visit Zagreb/Facebook.

Cultural landmarks of the city include Ban Jelačić Square which has existed since the 17th century, the Zagreb Cathedral, or the magnificent Croatian National Theater whose unveiling ceremony was attended by Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. So, make sure you squeeze in some time for a walking tour to absorb the sights of Zagreb’s Old Town.

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Evenings on Tkalčićeva Street, Zagreb. Visit Zagreb/Facebook.

Hungry? Head to Dolac market, Zagreb's main open-air farmers market to pick up some fresh, seasonal produce and souvenirs. You can also choose to end your day with a tasty meal and local wine from any of the excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes along Tkalčićeva Street.

Day 2: Rovinj

After a bustling day in Zagreb, the enchanting city of Rovinj is a splendid change of pace. Perfectly situated on the Istrian peninsula, the city boasts a rich heritage, from being settled by Venetian tribes, to becoming part of the Byzantine and Frankish Empires, all reflected in the diversity of the city’s architecture, art, and culture.

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This stunning setting has been a popular film setting for movies such as "The Hitman's Wife's Bodyguard". Rovinj Tourist Board/Facebook.

Stroll along the beautiful cobbled streets and narrow alleys of Rovinj Old Town and make your way towards St. Euphemia Cathedral. Along the way, you should pass by Grisia Street, lined with souvenir stalls and galleries with the most unique pieces to add to your collection.
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The charming, picturesque streets of Rovinj's Old Town. Rovinj Tourist Board/Facebook.

If you have time to spare, take a day trip to Sveta Katarina, a small picturesque island that’s a mere 10-minute water taxi ride from the pier. Spend the afternoon taking a dip in the aquamarine waters of the bay, or hike on one of the numerous trails dotted around the island, or both!

Alternatively, sit back and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in Istria such as Amarin, Borik, or Valdaliso Beach.

Day 3: Pula

Before leaving the Istrian Coast, make Pula the next stop on your road trip. Serving as the capital of Istria, Pula was the main military port for the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy at the height of its military glory. Today, remnants of these times are reflected in the city’s breathtaking landscape.

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The Pula Arena frequently hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year. Pula Plus/Facebook.

The famous Pula Arena, one of the most well preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, is a must-see! Another not to be missed landmark is the Temple of Augustus, a monument dedicated to the first Roman emperor in honor of his rule.

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The unique shape of Fort Puna Christo. Pula Plus/Facebook.

Also check out the impressive Fort Punta Christo, which includes an underground section to explore and a well-stocked rooftop bar for refreshments after. You can also enjoy magnificent 360-degree views of Pula from the Venetian Fortress (Kaštel) which also houses the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria.

Day 4: Plitvice National Park

Although Croatia boasts some of the best coastlines in the world, Plitvice Lakes National Park consistently appears in the top must-see places to visit in Croatia, and for good reason! This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the title as the oldest and largest national park in Croatia, famous for its gorgeous turquoise lakes. Well worth the detour inland.

plitvice_lakes_national_park_facebook_small.jpgThe main walkway of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Plitvice Lakes National Park/Facebook.

Be aware that the park can get very crowded during the season! To avoid this, just be prepared to visit early (7-8am), or better still, stop by during off-peak seasons where the park transforms into the perfect winter wonderland.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park/Facebook.

Day 5: Zadar

After a day in the lush forests, take a scenic drive back to the Dalmatian coast and spend a day in the charming city of Zadar, the oldest continuously inhabited Croatian city. Today, cozy cafes and art galleries are seamlessly woven into remains from the times of Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Old Town and admire the historical architecture including the Church of St. Donatus, the Landward Gate, the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, and the Roman Forum.

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Ruins in the Old Town of Zadar. Zadar Region/Facebook

Along the way, catch the famous Sea Organ, and a sunset so beautiful, it even captivated Alfred Hitchcock! Just after sunset, take in the light show at the Sun Salutation, an installation created by Nikola Bašić, the same artist who designed the sea organ.

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The Landward Gate, Zadar. Zadar Region/Facebook

If you have some time in between, head to Pag Island to try some of the famous Paski Cheese or to Nin, home to Queen’s Beach, the longest sandy beach in Croatia. Other gorgeous beaches along the coast of Zadar include Kolovare and Borik.

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Award-winning sheep's cheese from Pag Island. Pag Tourist Board/Facebook.

Day 6: Split

Welcome to Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, and second-largest in all of Croatia. The city was founded as the Greek colony of Aspálathos between the 3rd and 2nd century BC.

It was later where Diocletian's Palace was built for the Roman emperor in AD 305. The palace also houses the Peristil, or the main square, another great place to enjoy some coffee and people-watch in addition to the Riva promenade.

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Enjoy a drink inside the walls of the Diocletian's Palace, Split. Visit Split/Facebook

While exploring the Old Town, stop by the Green Market, the largest farmer’s market in Split, to pick up some fresh, organic produce. Turn the corner and it is difficult to miss the 8.5-meter statue of Gregory of Nin, sculpted by world-renowned artist Ivan Meštrović. Rubbing the statue’s toe is said to bring good luck, so much so that it has been worn smooth by visitors over the years.

You can also squeeze in a light hike up Marjan Hill, also known as the “lungs of Split”. Its summit is an ideal place for a picnic, offering marvelous views of the harbor and neighboring islands.

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The crystal clear waters of Bačvice beach. Visit Split/Facebook

Fancy another beach day? Bačvice beach is a popular hangout spot in the center of Split. Relax at one of the many cafe bars and watch the locals play picigin, a traditional ball game. Rumor has it this beach is also where the sport originates from.

Day 7: Krka/Omiš/Trogir

Don't be too quick to leave Split. From here, there are several options for day tours to surrounding attractions.
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Some of the most stunning waterfalls in Croatia can be found at Krka National Park. Krka Nationa Park/Facebook

For nature lovers, Krka National Park is another national park about an hour’s drive from Split. Spend a day walking along well-maintained trails that wind along some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country. Again, make sure you get there early to avoid the crowds!

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Try white water rafting in Omiš. Tourist Board Omiš/Facebook

For those craving more action, head to the picturesque town of Omiš which offers one of the most dramatic scenes on the coast. The city is nestled in a canyon surrounded by gray, craggy mountains, contrasting the peacock blue waters where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea. Omiš offers white water rafting, free climbing, ziplining, abseiling, and canyoning, amongst other activities for visitors seeking a bit of a thrill on their vacation.

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Just one of the many well-preserved remains scattered around Trogir's Old Town. Visit Trogir/Facebook

For the history buff, head to Trogir which has the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complex in all of Central Europe. Take a walk around the Old Town, surrounded by walls comprising a series of dwellings and palaces from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods.

Day 8: Hvar

With over 1,000 islands, it wouldn’t be a complete trip to Croatia without doing some island hopping. From Split, take the 1-hour ferry ride over to Hvar. Its beauty and vibrant nightlife have made it a regular vacation spot for the likes of celebrities such as George Clooney and Beyonce.

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Hvar is one of the longest and sunniest islands in Croatia. Hvar Tourist Board/Facebook

Start by wandering around St. Stephen’s Square, the largest square in Croatia and don’t miss the Cathedral of St. Stephen and the Hvar public theater. For the best view, climb to the top of the Španjola Fortress to get an unobstructed view overlooking Hvar Town and nearby Pakleni Islands. You can even rent a small boat (no license required) to explore these islands on your own!

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The view from the top of the Španjola Fortress is unparalleled on the island. Hvar Tourist Board/Facebook

Once you’ve taken in all these sights, enjoy another relaxing beach day at one of the many pristine beaches such as Malo Zaraće, Dubovica, or Pokonji Dol.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for another day trip, book a tour with one of the local travel agencies to the Blue Caves on Biševo and marvel at its clear, iridescent blue waters.

Day 9: Korčula

After the buzz of Hvar, take the ferry to the tranquil town of Vela Luka on the island of Korčula, the birthplace of famed explorer Marco Polo and home to some of the best Croatian wines.

From Vela Luka, take a scenic drive towards the town of Korčula, also known as “little Dubrovnik”. Along the way, stop by the numerous family-run vineyards that welcome visitors for wine and cheese tastings.

Grk is a white wine variety grown almost exclusively on Korčula, other white wines such as Pošip and Rukatac are also premier Croatian wines, often served on celebratory occasions. For fans of red wine, do grab a bottle or 2 of Plavac Mali.

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Vineyards of Korčula island. Visit Korčula/Facebook

In Korčula, walk off the afternoon’s indulgences exploring the streets of the Old Town with its architectural influences by the Venetian Renaissance, before capping off the night with a meal and more wine at any of its superb restaurants.

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Korčula town. Visit Korčula/Facebook

Day 10: Dubrovnik

There’s no better way to end the trip than with Dubrovnik. And yes, there is no shortage of Game of Thrones tours to indulge your senses, but there is so much more to this medieval city than where Cersei Lannister did her walk of shame.

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The beautiful Saint Blaise's Church in Dubrovnik was built during the 10th century. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

Talk a walk along the city walls and through Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street. From here, you can also catch Onofrio’s Large Fountain that used to supply Dubrovnik with fresh water during the Middle Ages and other impressive structures including the Clock Tower, Saint Blaise's Church, Saint Ignatius Church, Cathedral of the Assumption, and the Franciscan Monastery.

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The view from beyond the walls of Dubrovnik looking upon Fort Lovrijenac. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

Watch the sunsets and reminisce on your amazing road trip through the country at one of the cliff bars along the city walls, before capping it all off with an exquisite meal at one of the many Michelin-starred or recommended restaurants Dubrovnik has to offer.

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Nothing like a luscious meal to top off a fantastic experience road-tripping in Croatia. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

And that’s all folks, you’ve done it! Croatia in 10 days! Bear in mind, this is merely the appetizer of what Croatia has to offer. Customize this guide to better suit your tastes and pace and remember, don’t hesitate to ask the locals in order to unlock the best secrets each location has to offer.

For more on travel in Croatia, follow TCN's dedicated page.

Saturday, 19 February 2022

13 SAS Croatia Lines from Scandinavia this Summer, Most Flying to Split Airport

February 19, 2022 - The latest flight news to Croatia as 13 SAS Croatia lines from Scandinavia have been announced to Split, Pula, and Dubrovnik this summer. 

Croatian Aviation reports that SAS Scandinavian Airlines announced the upcoming summer flight schedule in which it plans to operate on 13 international routes to Croatian airports.

Namely, SAS Scandinavian Airlines is planning 13 regular seasonal routes to three Croatian airports - Pula, Split, and Dubrovnik. The summer program to Croatia announced for this year offers far more flights than last year, especially compared to 2020.

Most lines to Split
SAS is planning the largest number of operations to Split Airport, with seven lines announced:

Copenhagen - Split, from 16.04., once a week, from the end of June to the end of August every day, two weekly flights available until the end of October,

Oslo - Split, from 14.05. once a week, from the end of June to the middle of August every day, one weekly flight available until the end of October,

Stockholm - Split, from 07.05., twice a week, from the end of June to the middle of August every day, one weekly flight available until the end of October,

Bergen - Split, from 27.06., twice a week until mid-August,

Gothenburg - Split, from 14.05., once a week, from the end of June to the middle of August every day, one weekly flight available until the end of October,

Kristiansand - Split, from 28.06., twice a week until mid-August,

Stavanger - Split, from 27.06., twice a week until mid-August.

Scandinavian Airlines is planning 34 flights a week on these seven routes to Split Airport in the peak season. 

Four lines to Pula
SAS also announced four international flights to Pula Airport:

Copenhagen - Pula, daily from 26.06. to 13.08.,

Oslo - Pula, from June 27, twice a week until mid-August, three flights a week announced in July,

Stockholm - Pula, from June 24, four flights a week until mid-August,

Gothenburg - Pula, from June 26, three times a week until mid-August.

Only two lines to Dubrovnik
This summer, SAS will operate on only two regular lines to Dubrovnik. Namely, a line from Copenhagen has been announced, which should run daily from the end of June to mid-August, and a line between Stockholm and Dubrovnik, which will run twice a week in the same period.

SAS is announcing CRJ900, E195, B737-700 / 800, A319, A320, and A321 aircraft on routes to Croatia, with a capacity of 90 to 200 seats, depending on the aircraft type.

For more on flights to Croatia and other travel announcements, make sure to check out our dedicated travel section.

Thursday, 17 February 2022

New Skate Park Opening on Hidrobaza Beach in Pula

February 17th, 2022 - Construction works are drawing to a close at Hidrobaza beach in Pula, which is getting several new facilities including a skate park, a climbing wall and cycling areas

Hidrobaza beach in Štinjan, Pula has been renovated in stages since 2016, when three breakwaters were built to shield the beach from strong waves and ensure retention of loose gravel.

The place has a lot to offer, including a dog-friendly beach, an accessible area for people with disabilities, shower stalls and other related facilities. There’s also a promenade, a children’s playground, a basketball court, and several hospitality facilities in the area.

As reported by Glas Istre, this year's investments in the amount of HRK 2.1 million are financed by the City of Pula without any additional funding from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports.

The skate park is almost ready to open, with the last of the works completed two days ago. As the freshly poured concrete has yet to dry, the park is still fenced and watched by security guards.

Construction was carried out by the Cesta company, assisted by the company Tonbe from Zagreb, the latter specialising in construction of concrete skateparks and special elements for extreme sports manifestations and events.

Members of the August Šenoa Skateboard Club jumped in to help as volunteers. The biggest skate club in the county is also known for establishing the Vladimir Film Festival, an international event centered around skateboarding culture which put Fažana town on the international skateboarding map.

‘This is a phenomenal skate park. It’s pure California. The sea is 20 metres away, you can nearly make the jump off your skateboard’, said Nikola Racan, an experienced skater and one of the founders of Vladimir Film Festival.

‘It’s perfect. It spans over 500 square metres, it’s not too big or too challenging, and it has a lot of surface. This made Hidrobaza the best place in Croatia. It’s going to be really popular, and it’ll be interesting to see who’ll be having more fun, kids or adults’, added Racan.

For years now, Racan has also been involved in another project, a long-promised and much desired skate park in Fažana near Pula. The plans and designs are there, but the municipality hasn’t shown understanding, although the skater scene in Fažana is one of the most prominent in Croatia. It’s believed that a new skate park would help extend the tourist season in Fažana, as the town could host events that would attract skaters from all over the world.

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