Rovinj surprised me completely on this trip to Croatia

I went to Croatia with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Rovinj. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for pag cheese on day two and went back every day after that.

Hvar lavender fields was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was crystalline sea that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 6 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.