Family adventures in Croatia and Italy: Stepping outside our comfort zone

Setting Off on Our Backpacking Adventure

This summer, we decided to shake things up and leave the comfort of a planned holiday behind. Inspired by Race Around the World and eager to show our daughters that adventure doesn't always come with a set itinerary, my husband and I dusted off our old uni backpacks.

With only the beginning and end of our trip mapped out, we excitedly embarked on a 15-day backpacking journey through the stunning landscapes of Croatia and Italy. Armed with our backpacks and a spirit of adventure, we hit the road ready to explore. Each day offered the potential for surprises, and little did we know just how magical this experience would turn out to be.

Discovering the Blue Fish Festival in Atrani

One of the unexpected highlights of our travels occurred when we stumbled upon the Blue Fish Festival in Atrani, which holds the title of being the smallest town in Europe. The entire town was buzzing with excitement as each local restaurant prepared a unique course of the meal. The streets were alive with the sounds of laughter, chatter, and of course, the vibrant notes of live music that filled the air. We wandered through the charming, winding streets, making stops at various stations to indulge in delicious local delicacies like fresh fish, luscious pastas, and delightful desserts.

This spontaneous evening beautifully encapsulated the joys of travel—connecting with locals, indulging in regional cuisines, and discovering hidden gems along the way. Each bite was a reminder that travel often means being open to the unexpected, and we revelled in the community spirit that made this festival unforgettable.

Not Every Moment Goes Smoothly

Of course, not all our adventures were seamless. During our quest for a metro ticket, we encountered a series of frustrating misadventures. After spending over an hour trying to purchase tickets, we were met with an unexpected plot twist: the station was closed! Little did we know, well until later, that we could just pop on a replacement bus and purchase a ticket using our bank cards onboard! We couldn't see it as anything but a valuable lesson in patience and the unpredictability of travel.

In the end, it was through these little hiccups that we bonded even more over shared frustrations and unexpected discoveries. Each hurdle led to a rewarding experience, from eating in a rustic and enchanting Italian restaurant with Nona at the helm, to exploring the wonders of Split as we waiting for our ferry to Italy.

Reflecting on an Unforgettable Journey

As we wrapped up our 15-day journey, we were filled with a sense of joy and fulfilment. Our backpacking trip through Croatia and Italy was filled with breath-taking views, mouth-watering dishes, and the ever-present thrill of unexpected encounters. From long train journeys to discovering hidden coves with crystal clear waters, every moment created a lasting memory. Travel is all about these experiences—embracing the journey, savouring the flavours, and finding magic in the spontaneity. Here’s to more adventures that lead us off the beaten path!