While chartering a yacht in Croatia explore UNESCO World Heritage sites

Croatia is a small country but rich in history, culture and natural beauty, and is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites that you can visit while chartering a yacht. These sites are considered to have outstanding universal value and are protected for future generations to enjoy.

From medieval cities & ancient ruins to stunning national parks and agricultural landscapes, Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a unique and diverse experience for visitors.

Everyone is familiar with the old city centres of Split and Dubrovnik, which receive the greatest number of visitors, but keep reading if you want to learn more about Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites that will truly astound you.

Old City of Dubrovnik

Our first place is Dubrovnik – a historic city located in the southern part of Croatia on the Adriatic Sea. It is known for its stunning medieval walls, incredible architecture and rich cultural heritage. Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century and has been a major port city for centuries, making it an important hub for trade and cultural exchange.

Today, Dubrovnik is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to admire its beauty and rich history.

One of the most notable landmarks in Dubrovnik is the city walls, which encircle the old town. The walls were built in the 13th century and are considered one of the best-preserved examples of medieval fortifications in Europe. The walls rise up to 25 meters high and offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Visitors can walk along the walls and explore the many towers and fortifications that are scattered along the length of the walls.

Moreover, while you are chartering a yacht in Dubrovnik, you will be able to see the city walls from the sea and enjoy its beautiful architecture again and again, while you are sunbathing on the sundeck, drinking first-morning coffee on the main deck aft or playing with you water toys while the sun is in its zenith.

Another popular attraction in Dubrovnik is the Stradun, the main street in the old town. The Stradun is a beautiful street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. It is a lively place where locals and tourists alike come to shop, dine, and admire the city’s gorgeous architecture.

Yacht charter guests can berth the yacht right next to the main street and also explore many churches, palaces, and monasteries that are located throughout the old town, each of which offers a unique glimpse into Dubrovnik’s rich history and cultural legacy.

The Dubrovnik Cathedral is another important landmark in the city. The cathedral was built in the 12th century and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stone carvings. The cathedral is located in the heart of the old town and is one of the most important examples of medieval architecture in the region.

Dubrovnik is also famous for its beaches and stunning coastal scenery. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and stunning cliffs, making it a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers.

While chartering a yacht you can also explore the many islands that are located just off the coast of Dubrovnik like Lokrum, Lopud or Šipan. Each of these islands will amaze both adults and kids since they have a lot to offer everyone.

Additionally, while you are enjoying your jet ski cruise between the island of Lokrum and the walls of Dubrovnik, it is not uncommon to see dolphins in the area.

In addition to its many cultural and natural attractions, Dubrovnik is famous for its thriving nightlife and active cultural scene. Both of these aspects of the city’s life are very vibrant. The city is home to a large number of bars, clubs, and restaurants, all of which provide guests with an experience that is unique from the others.

Whether you are looking for a quiet night in or a lively night out, Dubrovnik has something to offer everyone. In addition, the best nightclub is Revelin and it is located in one of 5 Dubrovnik’s fortresses so you will have an opportunity to party in a fortress, cool right?

Dubrovnik is a must-visit destination for all yacht charter guests who are exploring the Adriatic coast of Croatia. Whether you are interested in history, or culture, or just want to relax and enjoy the scenery, Dubrovnik has something to offer for everyone.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most famous natural attractions in Croatia and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. The park is located in the mountainous region of Lika and is known for its stunning waterfall system and crystal-clear lakes.

The Plitvice Lakes consist of a series of 16 interconnected lakes that are divided into upper and lower cascading sections by natural dams. The waterfalls in the park are created by the erosion of limestone, which is a characteristic of the karst landscape in the region.

Over time, the erosion has formed a network of streams, rivers, and waterfalls, which flow into the lakes. The result is a breathtaking landscape that attracts visitors from all over the world. No matter if that is located between mountains it is still one of the must-visit places while chartering a yacht in Croatia.

Your captain can berth the yacht in the nearest marine and your local broker will take care of transportation to this magical national park that is under UNESCO World Heritage sites.

One of the most unique aspects of Plitvice Lakes is its turquoise-coloured water, which is a result of the combination of minerals in the water and the moss and algae that grow in it. This vibrant colour is a striking contrast to the surrounding green landscape, and it adds to the park’s overall beauty and serenity.

Yacht charter guests can enjoy several different hiking trails that offer different perspectives of the lakes and waterfalls. The most popular trail is the main trail, which is a wooden boardwalk that winds its way through the park and offers breathtaking views of the waterfalls and lakes.

The trails are well-maintained, and there are also several lookout points along the way where guests can stop, take in the scenery and shoot some amazing snaps for their social media. In this park, you are allowed to use the drone so trust us your social media will explode after these photos and videos.

The Plitvice Lakes national park is also home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including endemic species such as the endemic species of the lynx and the brown bear. There are also several species of birds and reptiles, as well as a rich variety of plants and trees.

The park is also a popular destination for bird-watching, and yacht charter guests can often see species such as the eagle and the owl.

In addition to hiking, yacht charter guests can also enjoy several other activities, including boat rides, fishing, and kayaking. There are also several restaurants and cafes in the park, as well as several picnic areas where you and your friends or family can enjoy a meal in the great outdoors.

Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian

The Historical Complex of Split with the Palace of Diocletian is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the second largest Croatian city – Split, where you can berth your yacht for a charter in the city centre and admire this magical city the whole day.

This ancient palace was built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century and is one of the best-preserved Roman structures in the world. The palace was originally built as a retirement home for the emperor and today, it serves as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Roman Empire.

The Palace of Diocletian is a massive structure that covers an area of over 30,000 square meters. It is surrounded by well-preserved defensive walls and towers, and it is located on a narrow peninsula in the centre of the city of Split.

The palace was designed to be a self-sufficient complex, and it was equipped with all the necessary amenities, including a marketplace, bathhouses, temples, and a residential area. One of the most impressive features of the palace is its impressive colonnade, which runs along the main street of the palace and is lined with columns and arches.

The colonnade is a prime example of Roman architecture, and it serves as a reminder of the grandeur of the empire. Another highlight of the palace is its central peristyle, which was the heart of the palace and was used for religious ceremonies and public events.

The palace is also home to several well-preserved religious structures, including the Temple of Jupiter and the Cathedral of St. Domnius. The Temple of Jupiter was dedicated to the Roman god Jupiter and was one of the largest temples in the empire.

The Cathedral of St. Domnius was built in the 7th century and is considered one of the oldest cathedrals in the world. Today, the cathedral serves as a testament to the religious and cultural heritage of the city.

The Palace of Diocletian has been used for a variety of purposes throughout its long history. During the Middle Ages, it was used as a fortress, and during the Renaissance, it was used as a residence for the local nobility. Today, the palace is home to a vibrant community of residents, and it is a popular destination for yacht charter guests who come to see its impressive architecture and rich cultural heritage.

In addition to its historical and architectural significance, the Palace of Diocletian is also a hub of cultural and artistic activity. The palace is surrounded by a lively pedestrian area that is lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. The area is a famous spot for locals and yacht charter guests alike, and it is a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.

The Palace of Diocletian is also a popular film location, and it has been featured in several famous movies and TV shows, including “Game of Thrones.” This has helped to raise awareness of the palace and its cultural significance, and it has contributed to the popularity of the city of Split as a tourist destination.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit while chartering a yacht in Croatia and our recommendation is to start or end your vacation here so you can have more than 1 day for exploring this astonishing place.

The Ancient City of Trogir

The Ancient City of Trogir is considered one of the best-preserved examples of medieval architecture in the world, and it is home to a wealth of cultural, historical, and architectural treasures. The city of Trogir was founded in the 3rd century BC and has a rich history that spans over 2,000 years.

During this time, it was ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Venetians, and Austrians, and each of these cultures left its mark on the city in the form of impressive architectural structures and historical sites.

One of the most remarkable architectural structures in the city is the Cathedral of St. Lawrence, which was built in the 13th century and is considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in the world. The cathedral is known for its elaborate stone carvings and intricate reliefs, and it is considered a masterpiece of medieval art.

The amazing thing while chartering a yacht in Croatia is that you can anchor your vessel right in front of this Cathedral and enjoy its view from the seaside.

Another highlight of the city is the Kamerlengo Fortress, which was built in the 15th century and is one of the best-preserved fortresses in the Adriatic. The fortress is a prime example of Renaissance architecture and is considered one of the most important historical sites in the city.

In addition to its impressive architectural structures, the city of Trogir is also home to several important cultural institutions, including the Art Museum, which showcases the works of local artists and artisans, and the Central Square, which is surrounded by historic buildings and serves as a gathering place for locals and yacht charter guests alike.

One of the most interesting things about the city of Trogir is its well-preserved street network, which is considered one of the most complete examples of medieval town planning in Europe. The city’s narrow, winding streets are lined with historic buildings and ancient stone structures, and they offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Another unique feature of the city is its coastal location, which provides stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding islands. The city’s location on the coast also makes it a popular destination for yacht charter guests who come to enjoy the Mediterranean climate, crystal-clear waters, and sandy beaches.

Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Centre of Poreč

The Episcopal Complex of the Euphrasian Basilica in the Historic Centre of Poreč is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the city of Poreč, Croatia.

This complex, which includes the Basilica of Euphrasius, the bishop’s palace, and other associated buildings, is one of the most well-preserved examples of early Christian architecture in the world and is considered one of the most important cultural and historical sites in Croatia.

The Basilica of Euphrasius, which is the centrepiece of the complex, was built in the 6th century and is considered one of the finest examples of early Christian architecture in the world.

The basilica is known for its intricate mosaic floors, which depict scenes from the life of Christ and other biblical figures, and its stunningly detailed marble columns and capitals. The basilica is also home to a number of important historical and religious artefacts, including a beautifully crafted silver reliquary that holds the remains of the city’s patron saint, Euphrasius.

In addition to the basilica, the Episcopal Complex also includes the bishop’s palace, which was built in the 12th century and is one of the best-preserved examples of medieval residential architecture in the world.

The palace, which is now used as a museum, is known for its intricate stone carvings and stunningly detailed façade, and it provides visitors with a glimpse into the lives of the bishops who once lived there.

Another highlight of the complex is the baptistery, which was built in the 5th century and is considered one of the oldest examples of early Christian baptisteries in the world. The baptistery is known for its intricate stone carvings and stunningly detailed mosaics, which depict scenes from the life of Christ and other biblical figures.

In addition to its impressive architectural structures, the Episcopal Complex is also home to several important cultural institutions, including the Poreč Museum, which showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage and history, and the Poreč Art Gallery, which displays the works of local artists and artisans.

Also, the city’s location on the coast also provides stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and your anchored yacht for charter.

The Stari Grad Plain

The Stari Grad Plain, located on the island of Hvar in Croatia, is a unique and important cultural and historical site that has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Plain is characterized by its ancient agricultural landscape, which has been cultivated continuously for over 2,400 years, making it one of the oldest agricultural landscapes in Europe.

The Stari Grad Plain is known for its unique system of field division, which was created by the ancient Greeks and has been used continuously for over 2,000 years.

The field division system consists of a series of walls and stone structures, which are used to divide the land into individual plots and protect the crops from the strong winds that are common to the region.

This system of field division has been crucial to the preservation of the landscape, as it has prevented modern development from disrupting the ancient agricultural traditions of the region.

Another important cultural site on the plain is the Tvrdalj Castle, which was built in the 16th century by the famous poet Petar Hektorović. The castle is known for its unique blend of Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles and is considered one of the most important cultural sites on the island of Hvar.

This place is one of the most Instagrammable places in this area.

The Stari Grad Plain is also an important agricultural area, with a rich history of wine production and olive growing. The region is known for its high-quality olive oil and wine, and many local farmers still practice the ancient traditions of olive growing and wine production.

If you want, your local yacht charter broker can organise a tour through the vineyards and olive grove where you will learn a lot about these two agricultural branches.

In addition to its cultural and agricultural significance, the Stari Grad Plain is also a popular yacht charter destination. The region is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its rolling hills and lush olive groves offering visitors a peaceful and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik

While chartering a yacht in the city of Šibenik, the Cathedral of St James is a must-visit. You can berth your yacht only a few meters from the beautiful stars that lead to this magical piece of art. The Cathedral of St. James in Šibenik, Croatia is a stunning example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture and is one of the country’s most important cultural and historical landmarks.

The cathedral is one of the few examples of a purely Gothic structure in Croatia and is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The Cathedral of St. James was built between the 15th and 16th centuries and is famous for its intricate stone carvings, which depict scenes from the life of St. James and the history of Šibenik.

One of the most striking features of the cathedral is its façade, which is adorned with intricate carvings of biblical scenes, saints, and angels. The carvings were created by some of the most talented artists of the Renaissance period and are considered some of the finest examples of Gothic-Renaissance stone carving in Europe.

The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with its soaring columns, beautiful stained-glass windows, and intricate frescoes. The cathedral’s main altar is one of the most impressive in Croatia. Yacht charter guests come from all over the world to admire its stunning architecture and beautiful artwork, and to learn about the rich cultural and historical heritage of Šibenik.

The Cathedral of St. James is also significant for its historical importance. The cathedral was built at a time when Šibenik was an important cultural and political centre, and it was seen as a symbol of the city’s prosperity and power.

The cathedral was also a centre of religious life in the city and was used for important events such as coronations, weddings, and other important ceremonies. Today, people are still using it for these events and every Saturday you can see many couples getting married right there.

Primeval Beach Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe

The Primeval Beech Forests of the Carpathians and Other Regions of Europe are a unique and breathtaking natural wonder, spanning over 12 countries and covering over 140,000 hectares of land.

These forests are considered to be some of the most valuable and ecologically important habitats in Europe and have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites due to their exceptional beauty and ecological significance.

The Primeval Beech Forests are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including many species of rare and threatened animals, such as the brown bear, lynx, and wolf. These forests are also a vital source of oxygen, providing a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate, and are considered one of the last remaining examples of Europe’s ancient temperate deciduous forests.

One of the defining features of the Primeval Beech Forests is the size and age of the beech trees that grow there. Some of these trees are over 400 years old, and tower over the forest floor, providing a natural canopy that shades the forest floor and creates a unique microclimate.

This is a habitat for numerous species of birds, insects, and small mammals, as well as mosses, lichens, and other forms of plant life. Another important aspect of the Primeval Beech Forests is their cultural significance. These forests have been shaped by human activities for centuries, and have been used for everything from subsistence forestry to religious rituals.

They are also considered to be a symbol of Europe’s natural heritage and are considered an important part of Europe’s cultural identity.

The Stećci Medieval Tombstones

The Stećci are medieval tombstones found in Croatia and neighbouring countries, dating back to the 12th to 16th centuries. These tombstones, made of stone, are unique for their decorative carvings, ranging from simple geometric shapes to complex scenes depicting everyday life and religious symbols.

The Stećci are considered to be an important part of the cultural heritage of the region, reflecting the cultural and religious influences of the time.

There are over 60,000 Stećci located throughout the region, many of which are well-preserved and provide a valuable glimpse into the past. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the Stećci, with many yacht charter guests visiting the region to see these unique and fascinating monuments.

Efforts are underway to protect and preserve the Stećci for future generations, ensuring that this important part of the region’s cultural heritage will continue to be remembered and appreciated.

There are 4,000 Stećci located in two necropolises across beautiful Croatia. The necropolises include Velika and Mala Crljivica, Cista Velika and Dubravka/St. Barbara, Konavle.

Mala Crljivica is located around 55 kilometres to the east of Split and  Dubravka may be reached by car in one hour’s time from the city of Dubrovnik, which is ideal for visiting while chartering a yacht near the city of Split or Dubrovnik.

Defence systems of the Republic of Venice in the 16th and 17th centuries in Zadar & Šibenik

The Republic of Venice was one of the most powerful maritime states of the 16th and 17th centuries and was renowned for its formidable defence systems. This was particularly true of the coastal cities of Zadar and Šibenik, which were strategically located and were essential to the defence of the Venetian Republic.

In Zadar, the Venetian authorities built a series of walls and fortifications around the city, including the Land Gate, the Sea Gate, and several towers. These fortifications were designed to provide a barrier against attack by land and sea, were made of stone and brick, with several meters thick walls, and were equipped with heavy artillery.

The Land Gate, which was one of the main entrances to the city, was particularly imposing, with a high tower and a drawbridge that could be raised or lowered to control access to the city.

In Šibenik, the Venetian authorities built a series of fortifications around the city, including the St. Michael’s Fortress, the Barone Fortress, and several towers. These fortifications were designed to provide a barrier against attack by land and sea and were equipped with heavy artillery.

The St. Michael’s Fortress, which was located on a hill overlooking the city, was particularly important, as it provided a vantage point from which the Venetian authorities could monitor the movements of enemy ships in the nearby waters.

All these interesting walls, fortresses and towers are truly worth visiting while exploring Croatia on your yacht charter vacation. Your local broker can organise the guided tour so you can always learn something more about it. Furthermore, you can anchor your yacht right next to these UNESCO sites and admire its beauty the whole day.