Croatia & Montenegro

As a holiday destination, Croatia is dominated by Dubrovnik. And little wonder, as it's one of those places so beautiful, you struggle for words to describe it. But this is a country with so much more to offer besides.

In the north is Istria, a heart-shaped peninsula with so much Italian influence you could believe it was Venice or Tuscany. Picturesque hilltop villages inland give way to rich scenery on the coast, with Pula's stunning amphitheatre and the living history of Rovinj's old town particular highlights.

Central Croatia offers variety galore, from its idyllic national parks to the stylish charm of the capital Zagreb; and then there's the Dalmatian coast.

Great beaches and crystal clear waters combine with ancient castles and quiet ports make this a perfect choice. Although centred on the resorts of Split and Dubrovnik, the islands are equally fascinating; particularly über-fashionable Hvar, its gorgeous main town and chic nightlife attracting the rich and famous.

This natural beauty continues further south into Montenegro, one of the world's newest countries and fast becoming a favourite destination. Its sandy beaches and historic walled towns such as Budva, Kotor and Nerceg Novi  are set against a backdrop of dramatic mountains, their ales and canyons perfect for winter skiing or summer hiking.

Like neighbouring Croatia, Montenegro can be summed up in one word - unspoilt.

Flying time: Tivat - 3 hours. Dubrovnik - 2 hours 50 minutes.

Time difference: GMT +2 hours.

Getting there: Direct services operate to Tivat with Montenegro Airlines and to Dubrovnik with British Airways & Croatian Airways.

Currency: Croatian Kuna & Euro in Montenegro.

Vaccinations: Not required. However, please contact your doctor for up-to-date information.

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa. All other nationals please check visa requirements with the embassy.

Best time to visit: Croatia - Most people visit Croatia between April and September. Although the coast is too cool for swimming in April, you'll enjoy warm, clear skies south of Split. Hvar and especially Hvar town is one of the most popular destinations in the Adriatic. During the season (May to September) it can be very busy, especially during August when large numbers of Italians visit.

Montenegro - The coast has a Mediterranean climate with short cool winters and long dry summers. Inland, the winters are longer and colder, and the summers shorter and hotter, while the mountain regions have cold, snowy winters and warm summers. And just to let you know - the summer sea temperature is 25°C to 28°C.

 

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