If you like to travel and love to eat, you’re bound to have picked up on the incredible gastronomic reputation Croatia has gained in recent years. The country’s place at the crossroads of Europe has blessed it with a food history that is simply unmatched anywhere else on the continent. Ancient Greeks, Illyrians and Romans called it home in antiquity – in fact, you can still visit Emperor Diocletian’s palace in Split – while Byzantines, Venetians, Ottoman Turks and more have all made their mark on Croatia since, leaving the nation with arguably the most diverse food scene in Europe.
From the rolling hills and olive groves of Istria in the west to the turquoise coasts of Dalmatia in the south, and vast, castle-dotted plains in northern Slavonia, Croatia is a nation of beautiful contrasts. Each region has a fiercely independent and unique food scene serving up its own range of dishes based on its own influences. Istrian cuisine has a strong Italian feel, for example, but as you move inland into continental Croatia you’ll find heartier fare, with Hungarian, Viennese and Turkish influences becoming more prominent.
Diversity is already a big feather in the Croatian culinary cap, but it’s that diversity combined with the country’s amazing produce that makes it a must-visit food destination. Croatia is already famous for some of the best fish and seafood in the world, but there’s so much more to taste – award-winning olive oils and cheeses, amazing fresh and cured meats, glorious vegetables, wild herbs and even the rarest of truffles. For years, Croatia has been the hidden treasure of Europe, but now the secret is starting to come out. So, ready for a visit? Join us as we take a trip across this foodie paradise.