Seven Nights in Croatia

gomezhome ♦ 06/08/2025 ♦ Leave a comment

Zagreb

It was a five and a half hour journey bus journey from Vienna to Zagreb. But is was not a bad way to travel.

We were surprised by the number of gluten free cafes and health food shops in Zagreb. And cafes galore, with good coffee. Big tick.

In Vienna, there were a lot of smokers. They have followed us to Croatia. It seems even worse in Croatia as smokers are allowed to smoke indoors whilst others drink coffee and even with children around – although, supposedly, it’s illegal. It’s awful!

Free Walking Tour Zagreb

We did a “free” walking tour – where you are expected to give a reasonable donation to the guide (we did). There were only three of us plus the guide. I got to ask a few questions about the history and struggles of Croatia. Whilst I got some good information, the guide was very careful not to go deeply into the conflicts (who was to blame / what started it) and encouraged me to research further – which I will!

Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb

We did plan to go there. But there was a book in our apartment with photos and descriptions of the exhibits. Whilst they were very interesting, they were also incredibly sad. Have a look at a couple of the photos and see what you think.

Plitvice Lakes

Another three hour bus ride. The bus dropped us off about 500m from our accommodation. We had a short walk to pizzeria, bistro, small supermarket and the entrance to Plitvice Lakes!  We were blessed indeed. Lakes and waterfalls… beautiful, stunning, amazing, a visual feast!

Zadar

We had a lovely apartment in Zadar, where we had space – a large bedroom, a decent sized lounge, kitchenette and dining table. Separate toilet, shower and washing machine. So good.

In the suburbs (where our accommodation was) the gardens were full of fruit trees: olives, figs, pomegranite, grapes, apples – and we even spotted plum, pear and kiwi fruit! Lots of veggie is grown too. Mediterranean climate – but I’ve not seen such productive, thriving gardens clustered together before. The soil is rich and reddy-brown.

Lots of graffiti there too. Plus buildings started but not completed. And many buildings left to disrepair and abandoned.

Down in the centre of Zadar, by the marina, the old town is buzzing though and has some interesting old buildings. It was nice to walk around and get a good coffee. 👍🏾

Japan tomorrow

We are due to arrive in Tokyo tomorrow morning. Forecast of 36°, with a minimum of 29°! Also, there is an “excessive heat warning.” I’m not sure we’re ready for Japan.

Until next time…

• Photos by Jeannie