Croatian continental counties (županije)

Croatia is located in the southeastern part of Europe and divided into two: coastal and continental part. Croatia is a land full of natural beauties, stunning landscapes, numerous islands, thousands of beaches, tasty food and extremely welcoming and hospitable people. Even your dog will be satisfied since there are beaches for dogs. I prepared this story about Croatian continental counties (županije) just for you - to have it before you come to Croatia. So, let's dive into it.

What are Županije? 

As I mentioned above, Croatia is divided into two major divisions: Adriatic Croatia and Continental Croatia, and this division is based on its geographical position. Politically wise, Croatia is divided into 20 counties("županije") and the city of Zagreb. Each county has its capital city, its own coat of arms and the flag, with the county prefect ("župan") on the head. Each one of the mentioned counties has its beauties and curiosities. 

Continental counties in Croatia

Now, in the era of low-cost companies, it's so easy to come to Croatia from all major airports in Europe. If you prefer to be on the ground, Zagreb is well-connected with Slovenia, Serbia, Italy, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Hungary. Although, be aware that in Croatia, you have to pay the toll and don't forget that official currency is not euro but Croatian kuna. Like in every country, usually, the capital city is the first choice. Visiting Zagreb and its unique museums is always a good choice when you are in the Croatian capital. But what I always recommend is to visit Zagreb on a bicycle, so you that can perceive the city from the typical local perspective. Additionally, when in Zagreb, do not miss to visit Nature park Medvednica for a few hours of clean air and stunning forests. Going more to Croatian inland you should definitely visit Krapina, a unique Neanderthal Museum in Krapina (Krapina-Zagorje County). In Krapina, hop on a bus and head to Varaždin (city and county) and enjoy the best Croatian city and its beautiful city museum.

After museums, baroque buildings and asphalt roads of the previously mentioned counties, let's head to the central part of Croatia and its natural beauties, following down the Sava river. Nature park Papuk is waiting for you in Požega-Slavonia county and a lowland safari in Lonjsko polje in Sisak-Moslavina county. These two counties are perfect for families, all kinds of outdoor activities and yes - camping is very attractive here. Before the very end, in the far east of Croatia, let's spend 24 hours in Osijek, the capital of Osijek-Baranja county, and then, bellow Tvrđa (citadel) hop on a bicycle and visit Kopački rit nature park. Now you made it. On a bicycle or using your own feet, it doesn't matter. You came to the end of the story and its final destination, my birth-county - Vukovar-Syrmia. Enjoy the endless flatland views, taste beautiful Eastern Croatia food and get some royal rest in the Vinkovci, the emperors' birthplace.

A few more words before the end

Zagreb city is the smallest by surface but biggest regarding the population while Lika-Senj County has the biggest surface but with the fewest people living in it.  Croatian continental counties (županije) is just a small part of the general itinari guide through Croatia. Here, in Croatia, we say "get to know your country, so that you will love it more" - that's why I wanted to introduce you these, maybe, less-known details about Croatia. PS: Do you want to know more about the Adriatic counties in Croatia? If yes, check the Northern and Central Adriatic counties in Croatia, and Dubrovnik-Neretva - the most famous county in Croatia.