In the early 2000s, Croatia was a hidden gem of Europe, remaining off the radar of crowds and completely absent from tourist maps. However, after the country joined the EU in 2013, the situation changed significantly, and Croatia gradually became a very popular destination. This is reported by the Daily Mail.
In particular, the country has a lesser-known coastal city, Rijeka, which offers views of the sea and the alpine landscapes of the Dinaric Alps.
"This mysterious coastal city offers all the beauty, beach landscapes, and sunshine of popular regions - without the crowds of tourists. Located a five-hour drive from Split, Rijeka lies in the Kvarner Bay in western Croatia and is known as the 'gateway' to the Croatian islands of Krk, Cres, Rab, and Lošinj," the article notes.
When it comes to food and drinks, prices here are lower than in other cities in the country - a glass of wine costs €2.50. "For gourmets looking for local delicacies, Rijeka offers a variety of Croatian 'peka' dishes - these are seafood dishes cooked slowly, with the addition of octopus, garlic, olive oil, and wild vegetables," the publication adds.
This coastal city even earned the title of 'Cultural Capital of Europe' in 2020 thanks to its new museums, including the Rijeka City Museum, known as the 'Sugar Palace,' which was restored to regain its baroque splendor.
The Daily Mail assured that due to low rates and short travel times, Rijeka is one of the most cost-effective departure points for trips to the islands of Croatia.
Leave a comment