Croatia in shoulder season — best decision I made

Visited Croatia in shoulder season deliberately and the decision paid off completely. Diocletian's Palace without peak crowds is a totally different experience. Rovinj felt lived-in rather than touristy. Found a small place doing the best black risotto I've ever tasted — something that would have been invisible in high season when everything fills with visitors.

excellent wines was particularly magical with fewer people around. The weather was fine. The prices were better. If you have flexibility, avoid peak season.