Croatia is a small country on the eastern edge of the Mediterranean Sea and at the northern edge of the Adriatic Sea, making it an important crossroads throughout history. From ancient Rome to a modern Europe, Croatia has played at least some role in the shaping of the world that we now live in. The nation is a favorite for tourists from all over the world, and, as such, there are a number of great pictures that have been taken and posted to the Internet.

Below are 26 of the best pictures of Croatia that have been posted to Instagram. While these pictures by no means represent all that this great travel destination has to offer, they do provide insight into what Croatia is all about. From national parks brimming with waterfalls to ancient forts that are the site of some of TV's biggest sets, anyone is sure to find something to love in Croatia, and hopefully these 26 pictures from Instagram will help you realize why Croatia should be your next vacation destination. So sit back and enjoy these curated Instagram images of the sites and marvels of Croatia.

26 This Shot Of Fort Lovrijenac, Where Game of Thrones Is Filmed

Fort Lovrijenac is probably now best known as a key filming location for the hit HBO series Game of Thrones, but this spot in Croatia offers some of the nation's most beautiful scenery. Located in Dubrovnik, Fort Lovrijenac is a bit of a climb from the Old Town, but most tourists find the climb well worth it for the views of the town, the coast, and the surrounding scenery. With your ticket to tour the walls of Dubrovnik, you are given free access to the fort, itself, so be sure to keep your tour ticket. Even if you are not a fan of the fantasy TV series, you are sure to find something to enjoy by touring Fort Lovrijenac.

25 The Breathtaking Makarska Riviera

Makarska Riviera is considered the most popular region of Croatia, and for good reason.

The beaches of Makarska Riviera are considered to be some of the best in the world.

Stretching 60-kilometers from Brela to Gradac, this piece of the Croatian coast is lined with pine trees, white sandy beaches, and some of the most breathtaking clear water to be found in the Mediterranean. Regardless of what you like to do at the beach, you are sure to find something that suits your desires, or you may just discover a new favorite beach-going activity. The Makarska Riviera is a big draw for tourists from around the world, and it is easy to see why with shots like this.

24 A Remarkable Photograph Of Plitvice National Park

Plitvice National Park is probably unlike any other national park in the world: it is full of water. People who visit Plitvice National Park find themselves captivated by the amazing waterfalls as they meander through the park on the raised wooden paths. You will likely need at least half a day to really enjoy the park, but some tourists feel that a couple of days would still not do justice to it. And the park is something that may be enjoyed year-round.

Imagine, strolling through the forest, yet surrounded by water, any time of the year.

You will surely want to visit Plitvice National Park again and again to really gain perspective on how nature can change a place throughout the year.

23 A Colorful Photo Of Some Giant Painted Eggs In Zagreb

Zagreb is considered to be a vibrant, cultural window into Croatia. And, it is the capital city of the country, making it a place that most people who visit Croatia are sure to already have on their list of place to visit. From festivals to feasts, Zagreb really gives people an idea of what Croatia has to offer tourists of all kinds. While many people want to visit the coast, they are missing out on what the capital city has to offer. Whether you want to enjoy a large city or you are looking for an escape from the rest of the world, Zagreb likely has exactly what it is you are looking for on your Croatian adventure.

22 The Natural Beauty Of Velebit Mountain:

Velebit mountain is a symbol of Croatia. Velebit is to the Croatian people what Mount Olympus is to the Greeks: it is the home of the gods. It may not be as big of a mountain as some of the other mythical places found around the world, but it is likely to be one of the more beautiful! Until the middle of the 20th century, this was an isolated place, and it is still relatively free of people. And that means that if you are into hiking and exploring the vast wilderness that Croatia has to offer, you will not find a more ideal place than Velebit mountain!

21 These Ancient Roman Ruins In Pula

Pula was once a Roman town, and it is still home to the best preserved Roman ruins outside of Rome. And the fact that it was a key Roman city means that it still has a lot of Roman influences on it, including the architecture and cuisine. But they are just influences, and the Croatian people have definitely added their own "twist" on things. If you dream of a place where

Western Europe meets Eastern Europe,

Croatia is at that crossroads. And it is Pula that perfectly exemplifies that conjunction that is so truly European in nature. So, a visit to Pula will give you a sense of Europe's past, present, and future.

20 The Classic Simplicity Of The Church Of St. Donatus

The Church of Saint Donatus is probably the most famous Croatian monument from the Middle Ages. Built in the 9th century, and known as the the Church of the Holy Trinity from the 10th century until the 15th century, this pre-Romanesque Church is now named after the Bishop (Saint Donat) who built it. But despite being a simple Church on the outside,

it is now used extensively for musical performances, because of its outstanding sound acoustics.

The Church of Saint Donatus in Croatia is a classic example of how something as simple as a Bishop's dream can hold on through the millennia to continue to bring delight to the world.

19 The Preserved Natural Ecosystem Of Krka National Park

Krka National Park is best known for its unaltered natural state in the middle of the 21st century. While a national park, full of trees, rivers, waterfalls, and nature, Krka National Park is aimed mainly at teaching visitors about science, culture, education, and recreation. The park includes the Krka and Čikola rivers and covers over 100 square kilometers. Because of its focus on things other than tourism,

Krka National Park is still relatively undisturbed and in its natural state,

which makes it very different from many of the other "natural places" in the world. Another example of the beauty that Croatia has to offer its visitors.

18 The Picturesque Istrian Fishing Harbor Of Rovinj

Rovinj may be overrun by tourists in the summer, but it remains open year-round. And that means that if you visit the fishing town when there are fewer people around, you will still be treated to the same five-star luxury treatment that has become synonymous with Rovinj. This is one of the last Mediterranean fishing spots in the world, and visitors are treated to a rich cultural history that goes back thousands of years to when the Romans ruled the port. From the old town, take a wander through the cobbled streets to the shore where you can be whisked off to one of the many islands. Rovinj is truly a pearl of the Mediterranean.

17 Umag, In Beautiful Northwest Istria

Umag could be considered to be the gateway to Croatia. It is the first city you will come to when you arrive in Eastern Europe from Western Europe via Croatia. And what a welcome! Umag has a lot to offer tourists, especially an introduction to life on the Mediterranean, and because of this,

the city has built itself up with fine hotels, restaurants, and other accommodations for anyone looking to experience the true Croatia.

Shopping, dining, and nightlife abound in Umag, and it is sure to become a favorite spot full of memories of your trip to Croatia. Umag offers something for everyone at any time of the year.

16 A Romantic Getaway In Cavtat

Cavtat plays a key role in the history of Croatia, for it was in the 7th century that people fleeing Cavtat settled the town of Dubrovnik, and the rest, as they say, is history. Cavtat provides a lot of the same things for tourists that Dubrovnik offers, but with fewer people knowing about it. This makes it an ideal place for a getaway, while still offering dining, hotels, and an authentic Croatian experience that many other places have spoiled with the number of other people trying to experience them. Cavtat is a great place for a romantic escape, with its harbor and plentiful beaches.

15 Hiking In Klis, Splitsko-Dalmatinska

Klis, Splitsko-Dalmatinska is a great place for someone visiting Croatia to get back to nature. Consistently heralded as one of the best locations for hiking in Croatia, this town and the surrounding area provides a sense of freedom that is difficult to find elsewhere in Europe or the world. If you are an avid hiker, or just someone who enjoys the outdoors, a visit to Klis, Splitsko-Dalmatinska will surely do you in for a long time in terms of the experience of hiking through beautiful natural wonders. So, if you want to visit Croatia and you enjoy the outdoors and hiking, be sure to stop in Klis, Splitsko-Dalmatinska for a day or two.

14 The Ripe Fields Of Soblinec

Soblinec gives visitors a sense of what Croatia used to be like, back before the world became so big. If you are looking for a small village to get away from it all, surrounded by lush fields ripe for harvest, then consider a visit to Soblinec.

Where else are you going to be able to see what life was like in the Middle Ages and before?

What was life like back then? While you will not get a 100% exact reflection of times gone by, visiting a small Croatian village, such as Soblinec, will certainly give you an idea of what you missed out on being born a few hundred years too late.

13 The (Very) Ancient City Of Zadar

Zadar is the oldest continuously lived-in city in Croatia. And that makes it a very interesting place to visit. If you are looking for an opportunity to experience Croatia without crowds of people, then this is one of many places to go. If you want a great beach, Zadar is a great place to go. The dining in Zadar is some of the best that Croatia has to offer, and is certainly worth a look for anyone who experiences a place with a fork in hand. Yes, Zadar has a lot to offer for any traveler, and should definitely be on the short list of places to visit in Croatia.

12 The Picturesque County Of Varazdin

Varazdin county is home to the city of Varazdin, which is known as "Little Vienna." The region is full of baroque architecture, beautiful flowers, and plenty of opportunities for young people to get out and explore what Croatia has to offer. Varazdin is the de-facto cultural center of northern Croatia, making this a great place to visit to learn more about the region.

There are a number of festivals throughout the year, attended by people from all walks of life.

So, if you want a great experience of the culture that Croatia has to offer to young people, take the time to visit the county, and town, of Varazdin.

11 Sailing In Hvar, Splitsko-Dalmatinska:

Hvar, Splitsko-Dalmatinska is the peak of luxury in Croatia, and what better way to demonstrate that luxury than out on the open water? Hvar, Splitsko-Dalmatinska is an island in the Adriatic Sea, making it the perfect place to set out for a jetty on the sea. Or, if you prefer, it is home to some great hiking and other land-based sightseeing activities. But, if you have your sea legs, and you are into a higher standard of living, then be sure to take full advantage of all that Hvar, Splitsko-Dalmatinska has to offer for that particular life style, answering the call of the ocean.

10 Trakoscan Castle In Winter

Trakoscan Castle is beautiful at any time of the year, but this photo of it in winter is truly awe-inspiring. The castle dates to the 13th century, and is located in northern Croatia. Protected as a national historical entity, the castle complex and surrounding area is almost its own country, and still operates under its own constitutional law.

Trakoscan Castle is one of the most visited castles in Croatia, and for good reason.

Take a look at it, and you will be whisked away to the fairy tales of your childhood. Surely, any savvy traveler will find good reason to make the visit to Trakoscan Castle in northern Croatia.

9 The Town Of Bojačno

Bojačno had a population of 14 in the 2011 census, but that should not discourage you from visiting this charming little town in northwestern Croatia. With a population that small, you are sure to get the most of the famous Croatian hospitality. The town of Bojačno exemplifies the small town charm of eastern Europe and the Mediterranean region of the world. From the Park Hotel to boat rentals, there is plenty to do in this community, and that makes it attractive to travelers of all types. The town may not be big enough to register on most travel guides, but Bojačno is really a beautiful wonder in Croatia.

8 This Haunting Look At Pazin In Western Croatia

Pazin is the seat of Istria in western Croatia, and that makes it a pretty important place. With a castle, and a history, dating back to the Medieval era, the town is a haven for history and architecture buffs. But despite the fact that the town and area have so much to offer, they are not considered to be major historical spots. Located about 30 kilometers away from other more "touristy" locations in western Croatia, Pazin gives one the opportunity to experience all that Croatia has to offer, without worrying about the hassle of countless other tourists. So, for a look at Croatia, without the tourists, a visit to Pazin should be on your itinerary.

7 This Statue Outside The Cathedral In Trogir

Trogir is located on the Adriatic Sea on an island off the coast of mainland Croatia. Like many places in Croatia, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and with its rich and storied history, it lives up to that distinction. With its location on the Adriatic Sea,

Trogir serves as an important harbor and gateway for the region.

While many travel advisers will recommend doing a trip to Trogir as a day trip, those that take the time to stay a night or two will really get the full effect of what life is like in this great city.