Why Visit Me?
You do not like the crowds and mass tourism but you want to embrace the urban life of a metropolis? Visit me! With approximately 100 square kilometers less in size than New York City, I provide home to 10 times fewer people. If you’re not into Math, let me simplify it for you. This means my population is 800,000. I am the largest and most vibrant city in Croatia. My streets are always at your disposal to roam them. Capture breathtaking views of centuries-old churches or soak up the easygoing vibe in one of the numerous coffee shops at your leisure. Visit my museums that you will stumble upon on every corner, or just become one with nature covered by shades of my parks and forests. Do all of this without standing in a queue. In addition, it’s good to put emphasis on the fact that 90% of things you should see during your first visit is in the walking distance. You should have already figured out by now that I’m a timesaver.
Image credit: Julien Duval
When you travel, you want to feel safe and be surrounded by hospitable people? This is a no-brainer, my dear reader, come to me! I’m one of the safest cities in the world, a place where mugging or pickpocketing is something seen only in Hollywood movies. Furthermore, my streets are not only safe but also clean. The only thing you will encounter out of the ordinary is the graffiti. Even though they are not allowed you will find beautiful examples of them on the facades of the buildings. Maybe you’ll even come to a conclusion that this is not vandalism but art. And the people, you got to love the people. My citizens are always here to help you with an advice or action. If there is anything you need, just ask somebody on the street. Even though we live in a digital era where most communication happens through social networks, my inhabitants still like to talk to each other. They do it the old-fashioned way, face to face over a cup of coffee. If you are in need, my people will be your friends indeed.
As a young and free spirit, you are a party animal and a nightlife seeker? If it’s clubbing that you want, I will be your wingman. It is suffice to say that I own the so-called "bar street". 500 meters of sidewalk bars and clubs encouraging you to enter them. Just follow the wave of young people heading that direction, you will discover it! And when my youngsters party, they like to sing, dance, and hug. Just jump in and become a part of the action. One of the best music festivals in Europe has my surface as a venue. Check out the "INMusic festival" with one of the best headliners in the world here to perform for you. This is just a glimpse of what I offer, google me some more!
Image credit: Julien Duval
Sure, architecture is appealing and history is extremely important but when you travel you like to eat your way through a destination. Your appetite is now growing because you’re a foodie and this is of your interest. Grab a fork and a knife and dig in! For your appetiser, I’m going to serve you a statement that I have more than 20 open farmers markets in my neighbourhoods. They are all packed with fresh Croatian products and no GMO’s! Discover how food should really taste. While purchasing from local vendors you can also practice your negotiation and bargaining tactics. If you are indecisive on what to try a la carte, start with rakija because it will clear your thoughts. Rakija is a strong brandy made out of different fruits. It’s a good way to prepare your tummy for the feast that awaits you. The restaurants offer a variety of meat dishes since my citizens are big carnivorous. Quite interestingly, one of the best fish you can try in all of Croatia is in fact here with me. You do not have to visit our beautiful coast for this experience since the majority of the fish is shipped every morning from the Adriatic sea to my fish markets and restaurants. To conclude your meal, eat štrukle, an amazing pastry that can be sweet or salty and is prepared here in my region. Try it, you will love it!
By now, you should have somehow realized what you got to do. And do not say maybe. Lots of historical stories, beautiful architecture, awesome food and surreal friendly and easygoing people await you. Did I mention that if you compare me to my friends London, Paris, Rome, Barcelona and all the other posh squad, I’m extremely cheap? One would say I’m an excellent value for money with so many hidden gems to discover, your mind will be blown away. Did I awaken your interest? Are you already planning your trip so you can come and meet me? I have plenty more stories for you and I always tell them with a big smile on my face. See you soon, my dear reader.
Header image credit: Davor Rostuhar
Author: Filip Donadić