Background

Exploring the Secrets of Željava Air Base

Discover the intriguing history of Željava Air Base, a former military stronghold turned museum, nestled in the heart of Croatia's stunning landscapes.

4.7

Nestled in the heart of Croatia, Željava Air Base is a fascinating remnant of Cold War history. Once a top-secret military airfield, this expansive site now serves as a captivating museum that invites tourists to delve into its storied past. Visitors can explore its vast underground tunnels and hangars, witnessing firsthand the engineering marvels that once housed fighter jets and served as a strategic military outpost. With its eerie atmosphere and rich history, Željava Air Base offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, making it a must-visit destination in the region.

A brief summary to Željava Air Base

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and involves walking through various structures.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the base.
  • Bring a camera; the unique architecture and natural surroundings provide excellent photo opportunities.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can affect access to certain outdoor areas.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transportation (Bus)

    From Bihac, head to the main bus station located in the city center. Look for buses heading towards the town of Velika Kladuša, as these will take you closest to Željava Air Base. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. Once you arrive at Velika Kladuša, you may need to ask locals for directions or look for a taxi. It's a short distance from there to Željava Air Base.

  • Walking

    If you're feeling adventurous, after arriving in Velika Kladuša, you can walk to Željava Air Base. Head southwest on the main road (Unnamed Road) towards the airbase. It’s approximately a 4 km walk, so be prepared for a bit of a trek. Follow the signs to Željava, and you will eventually reach the entrance of the airbase.

  • Taxi

    After arriving at Velika Kladuša, you can take a taxi directly to Željava Air Base. It’s advisable to ask for the fare beforehand, but the distance is about 8 km, and it should cost around 15-20 BAM. This is the quickest option if you're short on time.

Unlock the Best of Željava Air Base

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Željava Air Base

Željava Air Base, located in Croatia, is an extraordinary testament to Cold War history and military ingenuity. Once a highly classified military installation, this site is now open to the public as a museum, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a bygone era. The base is renowned for its extensive underground facilities, which include tunnels, hangars, and other remnants of its operational days. As you wander through this abandoned airfield, you'll be captivated by the scale and complexity of the structures, each telling its own story of a time when air combat was at the forefront of military strategy. The base was designed to withstand nuclear attacks, showcasing the lengths to which military planners went during the Cold War. Visitors to Željava Air Base can engage in guided tours that provide insightful narratives about the base's operational history and its role in Yugoslavian military strategy. The tours often include access to some of the most significant and hidden parts of the complex, allowing you to imagine the bustling activity that once filled these now-silent spaces. The atmospheric remnants of planes and military equipment evoke a sense of nostalgia and intrigue, making it a perfect excursion for history buffs and adventure seekers alike. In addition to the historical significance, the surrounding natural landscapes add to the allure of the site. The base is situated in a serene environment, where nature has begun to reclaim the space, offering a stark contrast to the technological marvels of its past. Whether you are exploring the maze of tunnels or taking in the views from the surface, Željava Air Base promises a memorable experience that blends history, adventure, and the haunting beauty of a forgotten military stronghold.

Popular Experiences near Željava Air Base

Popular Hotels near Željava Air Base

Select Currency