Movie stars are hard to impress. They’ve seen it all. They’ve done it all. They’ve filmed it all. And certain travelers are no different.
Yet once in a blue moon, there comes along a land so unique and captivating that it steals the hearts of seasoned globetrotters and Hollywood legends alike; even ones like John Malkovich!
One such land is Croatia. The renowned star of the Adriatic who recently made headlines by setting the scene for one of cinema’s most accomplished actors (Malkovich himself) in a new short film created by the Croatian National Tourist Board!
In light of this, Croatia+ by Travelive has decided to take look at Croatia’s recent cinematic foray and inspire your travelers to join John Malkovich in finding out exactly why it’s as beautiful as they say it is!
Croatia | They Say It's Beautiful
You see, every journey to Croatia is something of a cinematic experience. It’s scenic, exciting, and full of surprising twists that you would never expect from a typical European destination.
After all, this is where the mighty stone walls of Dubrovnik reveal scenes of ancient history and modern fantasies alike. Where locals may be afraid of a draft but will savor a breezy seaside dinner way past sundown. It is a small country with a big heart that sees people greet one another simply because they always see each other around town.
And if you don’t take our word for it, then perhaps you’ll take that of the Croatian National Tourist Board, acclaimed producer Pete Radovich, and, of course, John Malkovich. Because in their film Croatia: I Hear It’s Beautiful, they set out to answer one very important question:
Is Croatia really as beautiful as they say?
Did you know that John Malkovich recently became a Croatian citizen? In recognition of his Croatian ancestry, the celebrated actor was granted citizenship during a ceremony in Zagreb before going on to star in Croatia: I Hear It’s Beautiful. Which, if nothing else, proves that some roles really are written for you.
Behind the Scenes
Every compelling story deserves an equally compelling setting. Fortunately for everyone involved in Croatia: I Hear It’s Beautiful, Croatia was more than happy to provide both.
And should your travelers be inspired by some of the remarkable destinations featured in the video, Croatia+ by Travelive is here to help them experience them for themselves. And here are just a few of the destinations that helped make the country worthy of its close-up.
Dubrovnik | The Eternal Scene Stealer
With its mighty stone walls, marble streets, and breathtaking Adriatic vistas, Dubrovnik continues to prove why some destinations were simply born for the spotlight. Yet beyond scenes of ancient history and modern fantasy alike lies a city where everyday life unfolds against one of Europe's most spectacular backdrops.
Split | Where History Never Left the Set
Built around the extraordinary remains of Diocletian's Palace, this Dalmatian city transforms two thousand years of history into something remarkably contemporary; creating the sort of setting that even Hollywood screenwriters might dismiss as unrealistic.
Mali Lošinj | Mastering the Art of Fjaka
Croatia's celebrated concept of fjaka (the art of doing very little, very well) finds its perfect expression in Mali Lošinj. Here, pine forests, crystal-clear waters, and leisurely waterfront promenades invite travelers to embrace one of Croatia's most cherished traditions: slowing down.
Krka National Park | No Special Effects Required
From cascading waterfalls to emerald pools and dramatic landscapes, Krka National Park delivers the sort of spectacle that no Hollywood production budget could hope to replicate. It is also a reminder that Croatia's most memorable scenes often require no special effects whatsoever.
Zagreb | Croatia's Unexpected Leading Role
While the Adriatic often receives top billing, Zagreb quietly steals a few scenes of its own. Grand architecture, lively cafés, and a distinctly local rhythm reveal a city where people still greet one another even amidst the pulse of a bustling capital.
Long before Croatia: I Hear It’s Beautiful, Croatia had already established itself as one of the world’s most sought-after filming destinations.
Dubrovnik famously portrayed King’s Landing in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. Meanwhile, Split and the nearby Klis Fortress likewise played starring roles, serving as key filming locations for Daenerys Targaryen’s adventures across Essos.
Did you hear? Croatia is Beautiful
Worthy of a standing ovation, isn’t it? Both the video and Croatia, that is.
Yet these are just a few glimpses of the country that have led John Malkovich and countless travelers before him to discover that Croatia really is as beautiful and captivating as everyone says it is.
And should your travelers wish to make their own pilgrimage to this celebrated corner of the Adriatic, Croatia+ by Travelive is here to help them do so through tailor-made journeys and immersive experiences shaped by local knowledge and on-site expertise.
Ready to offer your travelers a Croatian journey of unique discovery? Then contact the Croatia+ by Travelive team at croatia@travelive.com and let us create a tailor-made journey worthy of the big screen.