Plenty of interesting points

EURO U-17 ambassadors' advice: What to see in Croatia

03.05.2017.

Photo by: Drago Sopta/HNS

Fans visiting Croatia in May are in for a real treat, according to international stalwart Niko Kranjčar and the performer of the official tournament song, Eni Jurišić.

The country has become a tourism hotspot in recent years, thanks to its breathtaking Adriatic coastline, natural wonders and rich history. Supporters looking to while away the time between matches will be spoilt for choice, especially if they make a trip to Zagreb (above), the capital and Kranjčar’s home town.

“Zagreb has something for everyone,” says the Rangers FC midfielder, who won 81 caps for Croatia between 2004 and 2013. “The upper town has been preserved well and has plenty of history, and Maksimir and Bundek parks offer peace of mind. Meanwhile, Jarun Lake and Medvednica mountain are the perfect destination for nature lovers.”

Just make sure to bring a camera, says the well-travelled 32-year-old. “I recommend a visit to the top of the castle to take a photo overlooking the city, then buy fresh fruit at Dolac Market and take in a picnic in Zrinjevac Park near the main square. You should also visit the Plitvice Lakes national park, one of the most beautiful locations in the world.”

The local delicacies are not to be missed either, and Kranjčar recommends Zagreb’s famous štrukle, a baked dough with filling. Seafood dominates the menu in Rijeka and local pop star Jurišić believes Dalmatian cuisine is hard to match, with highlights including shrimp risotto, tuna carpaccio and Adriatic squid.

“You should try them all,” she says. The coastal city has plenty more in its favour too. “I’d certainly recommend visiting Trsat Castle, the Maritime and History Museum, the Governor’s Palace and Mololongo,” says Jurišić, whose song As One is destined to be the soundtrack of the finals. “My favourite beach is Žurkovo, in Kostrena, but you shouldn’t miss Sakarun Bay, which is ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.”

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