When you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, explore Pakoštane - a place that has been increasingly discovered in recent years by lovers of authentic destinations, top-notch gastronomy, and a slower Mediterranean lifestyle. Located between Zadar and Šibenik, only a few hours' drive from Zagreb, Pakoštane offers what few other destinations on the Adriatic can combine in such a small space - sea, lake, islands, history, top-notch gastronomy and stories of people w

In the heart of Žumberak lies one of the most beautiful stream valleys in Croatia, which has been preserved for decades by people in love with nature. Some places do not captivate at first glance. They do not offer spectacular hotels, do not attract with neon signs and do not demand attention. Such places slowly get under your skin. Slapnica on Žumberak is one of them. Just an hour's drive from Zagreb, deep in the green folds of the Žumberak Mountains, lies a valley that many

Located just over 170 kilometers from Zagreb, Novi Vinodolski is one of the destinations that successfully combines the best of the Croatian Adriatic. On one side, it is surrounded by crystal clear sea and an indented coastline, and on the other, the slopes of the Vinodol Valley and the mighty Velebit rise above the city. It is precisely this unique meeting of sea and mountains that has created a region with a rich history, top-quality wines, authentic gastronomy and impressi

Just half an hour's drive from Zadar is Nin - one of the most special Croatian towns, a visit to which is like stepping back into history, into the most beautiful Mediterranean postcard. Nin is one of the oldest Croatian royal towns, a place where Croatian princes and kings reigned, a town of Glagolitic script, salt, medicinal mud, and a rich gastronomic tradition. History here is not hidden behind closed museum doors - it can be felt at every turn, in the stone streets, chur

If you want to spend a weekend combining heritage, beautiful nature, and eno-gastronomic pleasures, head to Slavonia and Podravina. This destination tells the story of two picturesque parts of Croatia in a special way, which, when paired, provide unforgettable experiences for modern travelers. It is incredible how numerous authentic experiences, wonderful nature, enogastronomic offerings, and kind hosts, intertwined over one weekend, provide a wealth of experiences while also

Situated in the northern Adriatic, in the Kvarner Gulf, Lošinj is one of Croatia’s most distinctive islands — not only because of its natural beauty, but also because of the feeling it gives you the moment you set foot on it. The scenery here is breathtaking, nature is always within reach, and the rhythm of life is slower, calmer, almost meditative. It is precisely for this reason that Lošinj, an island with more than 140 years of tourism tradition, rightfully carries the tit

If you are looking for an escape from the city that does not require hours of driving, but only a short journey, the destination Pearl of Zagorje stands out as one of the most interesting discoveries in Croatia’s continental tourism. Located just thirty minutes’ drive from Zagreb, this green oasis perfectly combines nature, culture, gastronomy, and activities for the whole family. It is precisely this proximity to the capital, combined with a feeling of complete detachment fr

Due to the exceptional social and identity-related role of rafioli in local communities – a result of the continuous transmission of knowledge and skills in their preparation, both within families and in the public sphere – as well as their remarkable potential as a cultural and tourism symbol and product, a decision has been made to inscribe the craft of preparing filled pastry known as rafioli, rafijoli, ravioli or rafajoli into the Register of Cultural Goods of the Republi

Just one step from the sea and two from the snow lies the Municipality of Vinodol – a charming destination made up of four settlements that tell the story of the Frankopan family, the life and work of Juraj Julije Klović, and a place where the winds of sea and mountain meet. It is also where you will encounter the aroma of Bribir presnac, a traditional savoury “cake” that has been kneaded and baked for centuries in the kitchens of diligent local women. “There was hardly an oc

Baškotini, muštaćoni, maneštre, jota, Grobnik cheese served in both modern and traditional styles, various types of risotto, and fish filled the space of Exportdrvo with enticing aromas on Friday the 13th, where the gastronomic event “Mosaic of Kvarner Flavours – Kvarner at the Table” was ceremoniously opened. This delightful culinary event, which brought together numerous participants and visitors eager to explore the diversity of Kvarner’s culinary heritage and authentic re

Lent in Croatia is a culinary mood. For forty days leading up to Easter, kitchens across the country subtly shift rhythm. The meals become simpler, the flavours more restrained, and yet, paradoxically, more inventive. Historically shaped by Catholic fasting rules, which limited meat and animal fat (especially on Ash Wednesday and Fridays), Croatian Lenten cuisine grew out of necessity, seasonality, and deep respect for religious practice. What emerged over centuries is a repe

Valentine’s Day has long been wrapped in the symbolism of sweetness. From honey-drenched pastries in the Eastern Mediterranean to creamy coconut puddings from the Caribbean, desserts have always been culinary love letters — indulgent, shareable, and occasionally gloriously messy. After all, romance and sugar have something essential in common: both are best enjoyed slowly and preferably with someone who doesn’t mind stealing a bite from your plate. Certain ingredients — pista

For Valentine’s Day, Esplanade Zagreb Hotel presents a special offer that brings together refined experiences and tender romantic moments. On Saturday, 14 February 2026, in the red-lit ambience of Zinfandel’s Restaurant, guests are invited to enjoy a five-course gala dinner accompanied by a welcome glass of sparkling wine, the soft glow of candlelight and romantic piano music. For the occasion, Esplanade’s Chef Ana Grgić Tomić has created a selection of delicacies designed to

When winter really bares its teeth, and the days grow so short that lunch and dinner begin to resemble one another, sauerkraut steps onto the stage. It isn’t glamorous, it doesn’t smell of fine dining, and it rarely ends up on Instagram — but it knows the most important thing: how to warm you, feed you, and restore faith in simple cooking. In a pot of cabbage there is no pretence — only a slow flame, a little patience, and dishes that have survived far harsher winters than ou

One of Europe’s most popular national parks and a Croatian gem long proclaimed by both domestic and international visitors as a “paradise on earth”, Plitvice Lakes National Park has these days put on its winter attire. The cascades are partially frozen, the walkways await a blanket of snow, and from the restaurants wafts the aroma of food that awakens all the senses. The gastronomy of Plitvice Lakes National Park is so distinctive that it attracts a growing number of food lov

If you would like to experience Advent in a slightly different way—without crowds, queues for fritters, or jostling for the perfect photo—set off for Srijem. The easternmost region of Croatia, just over two hours’ drive from Zagreb, lives the festive season in its own distinctive way. Here, tradition and modern life intertwine; everything smells of grandmother’s cakes, Christmas songs fill the air, and both villages and towns breathe in the rhythm of the holidays. Christmas i

If you would like to experience Advent in a slightly different way, here is an idea: choose destinations close to large cities, bustle, and glitter, yet hidden in the peace and beauty of nature and carefully chosen company. Welcome to Ugljan Island—the green pearl of the Zadar archipelago and an ideal year-round escape. Even now, during the coldest part of the year, when fog and low temperatures dominate the mainland, the island offers contemporary travellers a mild climate,

Giving – a little magic woven into big moments that always fill us with joy. Whether we are opening boxes and admiring their contents or carefully choosing gifts for the people we love, eagerly anticipating their reactions as they lift the lids, giving is one of the ways we connect with those dear to us. It is an expression of feeling and a creation of memories that last. It was precisely this mission that guided Iva Špalj, the founder of the Croatian brand Gifterija, whose g

Opatija is one of the most beautiful destinations on the Adriatic, a town with a rich history and a continuous tradition of tourism dating back to 1884. Situated along the Kvarner Bay, Opatija entices visitors with its Belle Époque architecture, lush parks, and promenades such as the famous Franz Joseph lungomare. This town is an ideal year-round destination, and November 2025 will be marked by not one, but two captivating stories – the beginning of the month will celebrate t

Autumn in Zagorje – is there anything better for a wonderful weekend escape or a perfect family day trip? If you visit the Biser Zagorja (Pearl of Zagorje) destination and focus on its three uniquely radiant “pearls”, the answer will be a resounding no. This is especially true if you live in Zagreb County, which meets Krapina-Zagorje County precisely in this area. The Biser Zagorja destination is located in the western part of the Croatian Zagorje region and encompasses Velik

If you’re looking to experience something truly special this autumn — a memorable weekend in the heart of continental Croatia — let your journey lead you to Međimurje. This beautiful region, nestled between the Mura and Drava rivers, proudly preserves a rich tradition and cultural heritage that forms part of both Croatian and global patrimony. Often affectionately called the “Green Međimurje”, the name will make perfect sense once you begin to explore. Even when it rains, the

Every year, at the turn of summer and autumn, Vinkovci comes alive with the special spirit of its most famous festival – the Vinkovci...

Silba – the Pearl of Zadar is an island situated in the Zadar archipelago, between the islands of Premuda and Olib. Known as the...

Numerous sunny days, beautiful cities, numerous events, crystal clear sea, perfect outdoor activities, but also a part of the somewhat...

In Novi Vinodolski, on August 2, 2025, the event Snovi Vinodolski was held - a unique summer event that combined fashion, music, and...

If you want to explore Turopolje and Pokuplje, between Zagreb and Sisak, in the beautiful plain between the Kupa River, the Odra River,...

In the morning you wake up to the smell of pancakes, walk through green parks, along the longest waterfront in Dalmatia for a coffee, and...

Only a few dozen kilometers from Makarska or Ploče, positioned right next to the A1 highway, with a view of fruitful vineyards and...

Summer in Zagreb has officially begun – and that means Rougemarin Park has reopened its doors! An oasis of good food, music, and outdoor...

The town of Krk is not only known for its rich history and natural beauty, but Krk also tells an authentic gastronomic story, bite by...

Traditional summer fishermen's festivals have already begun in Istria. So on Friday, May 30, the Vrsar waterfront once again smelled of...

We love beautiful Srijem — its greenery, vineyards stretching to the horizon, golden sunflower fields and the smell of a fresh morning....

They say that Sisak-Moslavina County is ideal for weekend getaways and day trips. That's why, whether you live in the continental part of...

In the year that Esplanade celebrates its 100th anniversary, this Zagreb symbol of sophistication and style revives the spirit of the...

Lošinj is an island of vitality, marking 140 years of organized tourism this year, which is closely linked to the development of health...

Slavonia and Podravina, unexpectedly beautiful, unexpectedly close, and unexpectedly green, are the slogans of the Virovitica-Podravina...

In the grand final of the METRO Junior Top Chef competition, held on Wednesday, April 30, at the METRO Center in Jankomir, Ivan Dujmović...

The Grandma's Cakes event was held on April 27, 2025, in Pregrada. The Grandma's Cakes event, held in Pregrada, is a unique celebration...

Imagine waking up in a camp cottage on the shore of Vrana Lake National Park to the sound of birdsong and the sunrise over the lake....

Spring, in all its beauty, changeability, and the feeling of nature awakening, was very inspiring for the first Women's Weekend in...

Since 1968, during the carnival season in Županja, a unique cultural and tourist event, Šokačko sijelo, has been held. Once a time marked...

Dalmatian pancetta is a symbol of indigenous heritage, quality, and tradition, especially in the Dalmatian hinterland, where it is produced

Lepoglava is a beautiful town in Zagorje that rightfully enjoys an international reputation. First, thanks to its lace, coming to...

Lepoglava is located at the foot of the volcano! Admittedly, this is a fossil volcano Gaveznica, which was once known as a Stone Peak. It...

A fascinating introduction to the history of Lepoglava's lifestyle and the unique Mlinčani kolač!

Licitar is much more than a colourful cookie made of honey dough - it is a living monument of Croatian tradition

Fish stew, or simply "fiš", one of the most iconic dishes of Slavonia and Baranja, represents a real gastronomic experience

Moja mala kala, as part of the summer program "Crikvenica Summer Showtime", in its first evening of the second edition, managed to...

History of alcohol smuggling from Estonia to Finland

Rye is the flavour of Estonia. Learn more about Estonian love for rye and their historic attachment to rye bread