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Continental Croatia is a gem for many visitors who are looking to rest and recharge their bodies and souls. This fascinating region lies within the mainland of the country, west of the Dinara and Velebit mountains. From vast lowlands and forested mountains to river valleys, waterfalls and hidden lakes, the region's natural beauty welcomes you in all shades of relaxing green. History and culture are specific to the mainland of Croatia and include numerous medieval and baroque castles, folklore events and unique culinary offerings at authentic country estates. Whether you are looking for luxury in the midst of rural idyll, an active holiday filled with hiking and canoeing, or want to admire the architecture of country houses from ancient times, continental Croatia has the dream destinations for your next holiday.
Villas amidst the beauty of Croatian hinterland
Continental Croatia enchants visitors from all over the world with its incredible natural beauty. The Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the region's most famous natural treasures, looks like a scene from a fairy tale and can be explored along various adventure routes. Mountains such as Medvednica, Žumberak and Papuk offer excellent opportunities for hiking, cycling and winter sports. If you like nature, many forests and nature parks such as Kopački rit, home to wild fauna and many rare birds, will delight you. Canoeing, rafting and fishing on the green beauties of rivers such as the Drava, Kupa, Korana and Mrežnica will provide adventurers with lifelong memories. Slavonia, the eastern part of continental Croatia, is the proud home of endless plains and vineyards, and welcomes you with traditional village charm and renowned hospitality.
After a day of exploring these natural beauties, there is no better feeling than relaxing in a comfortable villa surrounded by nature. Here you can continue to enjoy the fresh air and take in the green views from the luxurious comfort of your terrace or pool with a view. Our villas in nature are close to protected natural areas and are surrounded by meadows, forests, rivers and walking paths. They are superbly equipped - they have swimming pools, saunas and facilities for children, and will provide you with the best experience of absorbing the natural beauty of continental Croatia.
Villas with pool, all year round
The climate in continental Croatia has a wide range of temperatures - winters are colder than in the coastal regions and summers are quite warm. During the summer, temperatures can reach over 30°C. So there is nothing better than cooling off in our luxury villas with outdoor pools during the warmer months. Dive into the refreshing water and relax in the deckchairs by the pool. Enjoy the peace and quiet with a beautiful view of nature.
If you want to swim during the colder months and still enjoy the experience of swimming in the fresh air of continental Croatia, have a look at our villas with heated pools. Whether it's winter or summer, the experience of relaxing in your own version of paradise will enhance your well-deserved holiday in this beautiful region.
Combine family holidays and cultural exploration
Situated in the heart of Europe, continental Croatia has a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries. One of the most prominent elements of continental Croatia's cultural heritage is its rich history of art and architecture. Stunning baroque, renaissance and neo-gothic buildings tell visitors about different periods of Croatian history in cities such as Zagreb, Osijek and Varaždin. Visit the beautiful baroque castle in Varaždin, the medieval Veliki Tabor in Zagorje or the Renaissance Erdödy Castle near Zagreb to get a glimpse of the lifestyle of Croatia's noble families and rulers.
In addition to its architecture, continental Croatia also prides itself on its traditional customs, national costumes and music. At festivals, events and family celebrations, many throughout the region perform traditional dances and proudly wear national costumes to preserve and pass on their heritage. Visit a local heritage festival, learn to dance kolo to the joyful sound of tambura and admire the beautiful embroidery, beadwork and ornamentation of traditional clothes.
Such events have traditionally been a meeting place for all the generations. If you want to experience them with the whole family, our top family villas offer an ideal combination of comfort and facilities for the youngest. There are often swings, slides and bicycles in the fenced green gardens. Family villas often have games rooms with table football, board games and games consoles. If you don't want to leave your four-legged companions out of your family holiday in continental Croatia, pet-friendly villas with spacious yards and lawns are a good choice.
Continental Croatia, a foodie's paradise
During your holiday in continental Croatia, the tempting culinary offer will awaken the gourmet in you. One of the most popular dishes is Slavonian čobanac, a rich soup made from various types of meat, vegetables and spices. Next on the menu is another original Slavonian speciality, the spicy dry sausage called kulen. Štrukle, delicious stuffed pasta pillows filled with cheese, are not to be missed in Zagorje. Roast turkey with mlinci is also most associated with Zagorje, but is popular throughout continental Croatia. For dessert, try krempita - creamy cake with crispy pastry - and gingerbread cookies, which can also be taken home as a souvenir.
Continental Croatia is home to many vineyards and wineries that produce top-quality wines. Zagorje, for example, is famous for its Belje and Krapina wines, which reflect the specificity of the soil and climate. Visitors can take a number of tours of wineries and country estates, where they can enjoy an authentic gastronomic and oenological experience.
Popular destinations
Zagreb
The capital of Croatia is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage. Visitors can explore the charming Upper Town with its ancient core and visit numerous galleries and museums, such as the popular Museum of Broken Relationships. The Dolac market in the heart of the city offers a special experience of tasting local products, and in the winter months, the magic of the Christmas market transforms the city into a fairytale destination with festive content and glittering decorations.
Plitvice Lakes
A visit to the Plitvice Lakes, the most famous natural phenomenon in continental Croatia, is an experience you will never forget. The national park consists of 16 beautiful lakes connected by waterfalls and footpaths that lead through pure, unspoilt nature. Walking along the wooden paths and bridges you can get close to the turquoise lakes and admire the crystal clear water.
Varaždin
Varaždin, a picturesque baroque town in the northern part of Croatia, offers tourists a unique combination of historical charm and lively atmosphere. Wander through the cobbled streets of the old town and discover beautiful baroque buildings, churches and colourful facades. The city hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, including Špancirfest, the largest street festival in Croatia. Do not miss a visit to Trakošćan, a 13th century Romanesque castle not far from Varaždin.
Đakovo
This picturesque town in eastern Croatia is famous for Đakovački vezovi (meaning, "the Embroideries of Đakovo"), a traditional folklore festival that revives the region's rich folk heritage. It is also home to the renowned Đakovo Cathedral, a masterpiece of sacred architecture. But what really sets Đakovo apart is the State Stud Farm, where you can admire the elegant Lipizzaner horses in action and even take a carriage ride.
Papuk Nature Park
Papuk is a mountain and nature park located in the heart of continental Croatia, which offers tourists a unique opportunity to explore the forests, waterfalls and trails. Thanks to its beautiful cycling and hiking trails, this destination attracts active holidaymakers from all over the world. Papuk is also rich in cultural and historical sites, including medieval castles and ethnographic museums. You can also visit the water park at the foot of Papuk, which will delight adventurers of all ages.
What is the best time to visit Continental Croatia?
The best time to visit Continental Croatia is from spring to early autumn. The hinterland of Croatia has a moderate continental climate, with distinct four seasons. Spring and early autumn are pleasant seasons (temperatures between 15°C and 23°C), as well as less crowded. Both seasons are ideal for hiking, cycling and visiting historical sites. July and August are the warmest months, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 30°C. They are best for activities such as swimming in lakes and rivers, rafting and hiking. Summer is also when most festivals and cultural events take place.
How can I reach Continental Croatia?
Many visitors choose to travel by car thanks to the excellent road network. Zagreb is well-connected with the surrounding countries. From the direction of Germany you can easily reach the A3 motorway, which leads to Zagreb and continues towards Hungary. The A4 motorway leads to Zagreb from the east. It is a 6-7 hour drive from Munich, 10 hours from Frankfurt, 8 hours from Prague and less than 2 hours from Ljubljana. Croatia has been part of the Schengen zone since 1.1.2023., so at EU border crossings you can travel without having to show any documents. Once in Croatia, tolls are paid by cash or card at toll stations. Bear in mind that during the tourist season, especially at weekends, toll booths can be very busy. The railway network also connects Zagreb with many European countries. Fast trains, such as the Eurocity, provide efficient connections. You can also arrive by plane - Zagreb and Osijek have international airports with regular flights to many European cities.
Where are the most beautiful river beaches in Continental Croatia located?
A swim in the rivers and lakes of Continental Croatia is a great way to experience nature and refreshment during summer. There are plenty of options in the vicinity of Zagreb. The Foginovo river beach in Karlovac offers refreshment on the Korana River with facilities such as an aquapark and a 10-metre diving board. The river Mrežnica in the Duga Resa area has numerous swimming spots with waterfalls and unspoilt nature. On the river Kupa, you can find popular bathing areas such as Zibel near Petrinja and the town river beach in Petrinja. Kavrlja in Hrvatska Kostajnica is often visitors' top choice for swimming in the Una River. The town of Rastoke in Slunj is also known as "Little Plitvice", so waterfalls and natural pools of the river Korana await you at swimming spots such as Škrila, Pod oltarom and Kotlac. In Osijek, make sure to visit the Copacabana river beach, also known as "Kopika". Here you can enjoy the sandy beach by the river Drava, as well as open-air pools and many accompanying recreational facilities.
Which are the most popular destinations in Continental Croatia?
Among the most popular destinations in the interior of Croatia are the capital, Zagreb, known for its vibrant atmosphere and cultural scene, followed by Plitvice Lakes, the world-renowned national park. The towns of Osijek, Đakovo, Slavonski Brod and Varaždin are also popular destinations for their history, architecture and traditional gastronomy. Wine lovers often visit wine-growing regions such as Kutjevača and Daruvar to taste premium wines, while Kopački rit and Papuk are popular destinations for active holidaymakers.
What are some of the best things to do in Continental Croatia?
There are plenty of opportunities for a variety of activities during your holiday in Continental Croatia. Enjoy exploring the enchanting greenery of unspoilt nature in the Plitvice Lakes National Park or numerous nature parks. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing and rafting are also popular ways to enjoy all that Continental Croatia has to offer. If you are interested in discovering the cultural and historical heritage, you can spend a day wandering through historic cities such as Zagreb, Varaždin and Osijek, visiting their architectural gems and museums. For complete relaxation, head to one of the thermal spa resorts, such as the spa centers in Krapinske Toplice or Tuhelj.
What is the weather like in Continental Croatia?
The inland of Croatia has a moderate continental climate, with distinct four seasons. In spring (March-May) temperatures are comfortable for nature exploration and hiking, 15 to 23°C. In summer (June-July) temperatures reach 30°C, which is perfect for swimming in lakes and rivers, as well as outdoor activities. Temperatures in early autumn (September) are generally comfortable (22°C), and in November temperatures can drop as low as 10°C with the possibility for snow. Temperatures then drop towards 0°C. In mountainous areas, temperatures are lower than the overall average. It is always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel in order to plan your clothing and activities.
Where is Continental Croatia located?
The continental part of Croatia is located in the inner part of the country and does not extend to the Adriatic coast. It lies to the north of Bosnia and Herzegovina, to the west of Serbia and Montenegro, to the south-east of Slovenia and Austria, and to the east of the Adriatic Sea and the coastal part of Croatia. Thanks to its location, it is distinguished by a wide variety of landscapes, including plains, lowlands, hills, mountains and rivers. The capital of Continental Croatia is Zagreb, which is also the capital of the country.
What is the average price of a villa in Continental Croatia?
The average price of villas in Continental Croatia varies depending on the category, facilities and the period of your stay. Our villa collection includes a wide range of villas, from slightly more affordable to luxury villas. For the best value for money, check out our special offers, where you can always find a villa to suit your needs at the best value price. Villas must be booked in advance. Due to the higher demand in the summer, we recommend that you check availability on the villa's listing page and book as soon as possible.
Is Continental Croatia suitable for a family vacation?
Continental Croatia is an ideal destination for a family holiday. It is known for its hospitality, safety and friendly environment for visitors. A wide range of natural parks, walking and cycling trails, as well as swimming spots with waterparks, diving boards and other facilities will delight the young and the young at heart. The same goes for thermal spa centers, where you can always find shallow pools and waterparks for children. In addition, free outdoor events for all age groups are often organised, especially during the warmer months of the year.
Is Continental Croatia pet-friendly?
Continental Croatia is a great destination for a holiday with a pet. The natural environment of Continental Croatia is ideal for walks with pets, as there are many promenades, parks and mountain trails to be found throughout the region. Cities, including the capital Zagreb, have many cafes, restaurants and parks where pets are welcome. In our villas collection you will find pet-friendly villas, so you can feel free to explore the natural beauty and enjoy a well-deserved holiday with your pet.
Is Continental Croatia expensive?
Prices in Continental Croatia vary depending on your location. For example, in the capital city and the popular tourist destination of Zagreb, prices are often higher than in places that are less popular with tourists. However, prices in the inland are generally cheaper than those on the Adriatic coast. Continental Croatia also offers a plethora of free outdoor activities, cultural events and local attractions that contribute to an accessible tourist experience.
What makes Continental Croatia unique?
Continental Croatia is unique in its authentic qualities. This area enchants visitors with its rich cultural heritage, historic towns with baroque, renaissance and neo-gothic castles, mountainous landscapes and untouched nature. The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition, the region is unique for its healing thermal spas, including the spa resorts in Krapinske Toplice and Varaždinske Toplice. In addition to complete relaxation in the wellness oases, Continental Croatia is also known for its traditional gastronomy and wine-growing regions. As a result, you will experience a combination of culture, history and natural beauty that you will not be able to find anywhere else.
Where are the most popular thermal spa centres in continental Croatia?
Thermal spa centers in Continental Croatia are an ideal place to take a break from everyday stress. The combination of thermal pools with healing mineral waters, saunas, wellness treatments and water parks for children regularly attracts visitors seeking relaxation. The locations of the most popular thermal spas in the continental part of Croatia are Krapinske Toplice, Tuhelj and Donja Stubica, as well as Sveti Martin na Muri, Varaždinske Toplice, Daruvar and Topusko.
Which languages are spoken in Continental Croatia?
The official language in Continental Croatia is Croatian, which is used in all aspects of society and communication. English and German are spoken by a large number of people living and working in Continental Croatia. Besides English and German, you're likely to hear other languages like Italian and French at tourist sites and information points.
Where are the airports in Continental Croatia located?
To facilitate travel and access to the region, Continental Croatia has two airports. The main airport is the Franjo Tuđman International Airport in Zagreb (ZAG), the capital of Croatia, which is an important transport hub with connections to many European cities. The Osijek Airport (OSI) is located about 20 kilometres from the city of Osijek in the east of the country and is connected to several major European cities.
Are there charging stations for electric vehicles in Continental Croatia?
There are numerous charging stations for electric vehicles throughout Continental Croatia, in both large cities and small towns. For exact locations, check the map at https://chargemap.com/map.
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