best places to visit croatia in summer

16 BEST Places to Visit in Croatia this Summer

• Post author By Guest Contributor
• Post date February 15, 2024
• No Comments on 16 BEST Places to Visit in Croatia this Summer

Croatia is a summer love story waiting to happen. The backdrop? The sparkling Adriatic Sea and its thousand islands, the iconic limestone cities of the Dalmatian coast, and the stunning waterfalls and verdant national parks behind the famous coastline.

With sun-soaked beaches, ancient walled cities, and postcard-perfect landscapes, Croatia has no shortage of world-famous ‘bucket list’ destinations as well as many lesser-known hidden gems waiting to be discovered. But what are the best places to visit in Croatia? 

Croatia is a country that caters to just about every type of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacking beach bum, a history (or fantasy) buff wishing to stand above the walled cities, or just a family looking for your own slice of unspoiled Mediterranean paradise, Croatia has you well and truly covered.

In this guide, we’ll dive into some of Croatia’s most deservedly famous spots to the lesser-known nooks that are Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

This travel guide details the 16 best places to visit in Croatia – from the cities, to the islands, and tiny unknown towns.

Best places to visit in Croatia

If you’re planning a trip to this incredible Balkan country, you’ll surely want to include many of these incredible destinations in Croatia on your itinerary.

Dubrovnik: The Historic Walled City

If you’re prepared to battle the throngs of crowds descending on Dubrovnik each summer, you’ll be treated to one of Croatia’s most iconic and arguably most beautiful cities.

Entering the walled city of this UNESCO World Heritage site is like stepping into a history book but with better cafés. Wander along the Stradun, where every cobblestone tells tales of the past, and don’t forget to climb the city walls.

Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the Adriatic, returning in the cool of the evening to sip a gemišt in a tucked-away square and let the city’s magic work its charm. As the sun dips, the old town shimmers under the moonlight, transforming into a scene straight out of a romantic novella.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN DUBROVNIK

Split: Gateway to the Islands

Split is another marquee name on Croatia’s roster of world-class destinations. It is incredibly popular, not just for its blend of historical charm and modern sophistication but for its strategic position as a jumping-off point to explore some of Croatia’s best islands .

The heart of the city is Diocletian’s Palace , the palace of the ancient Roman emperor, which makes up half the city’s old town. Wander inside, and you’ll find a maze of streets brimming with bars, shops, and a few thousand years of history.

Don’t miss the Riva Promenade, perfect for people-watching and sea-gazing. Grab a gelato and join the locals in their favorite pastime: strolling and chatting, often at the same time.

Split is also your gateway to island-hopping adventures. Fancy a day trip to Hvar or Brač? Ferries are ready to whisk you away to these sun-soaked islands.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN SPLIT

Plitvice Lakes National Park: Iconic Scenes

The iconic scenes of the Plitvice Lakes National Park are instantly recognizable as one of the most impressive sets of terraced waterfalls anywhere in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a variety of trails, and each one is a walking postcard.

The lower lakes are all about dramatic waterfalls, while the upper lakes offer serene views. Boardwalks meander through the park, sometimes right over the water, in an immersive and spellbinding experience.

A paradise for photography enthusiasts, set your alarm to get the best photos in the morning light. And if you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, including deer, owls, and maybe even a bear.

Plitvice is also a lesson in patience and preservation. With its popularity comes responsibility, so stick to the paths. This place is all about enjoying nature’s wonders without leaving a mark.

FIND THE BEST DAY TOURS TO PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Hvar: The Sun-Soaked Island

Hvar – an island so sunny, with an average of 2,724 hours of sunshine a year definitely deserves a ranking among the best places to visit in Croatia. But it’s after the sun goes down that Hvar shines, with a glamourous reputation for beach bars and all night clubs.

Hvar has a lot more to offer than just its glitzy surface. Start your adventure in Hvar Town, where historical architecture meets a buzzing nightlife. Stroll through the quaint streets, and you’ll find Gothic palaces cozied up next to trendy bars.

A hike up to Fortress Fortica rewards you with views that will make your heart skip a beat – but maybe that’s just the climb.

For a taste of the quieter side of Hvar, head to Stari Grad. This old town is more laid-back, with its winding streets and sleepy squares. It’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying a coffee while pondering life’s big questions, like “Should I have gelato now or later?”

Don’t forget the Pakleni Islands , a stone’s throw away and a haven for beach lovers. These little slices of paradise offer crystal-clear waters and hidden coves – ideal for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and pretending you’re on a deserted island.

Hvar’s vineyards are another must-visit. The local grape varieties produce some of Croatia’s most unique wines. After a day of exploring, nothing beats watching the sunset with a glass of local wine in hand.

Rovinj: A Charming Coastal Town

Rovinj, a slice of Italian charm on Croatia’s coast, boasts Venetian-style buildings and winding cobblestone streets. The picturesque St. Euphemia Church reigns from a hilltop, offering incredible views.

A short boat ride away, the Rovinj Archipelago beckons with hidden beaches and unspoiled nature. Explore art galleries and perhaps catch a local artist at work.

Evenings in Rovinj are for marina strolls and unforgettable sunset boat rides , followed by seafood feasts at waterside restaurants.

Zagreb: The Cultural Hub

While many will miss it as they make a beeline straight for the Adriatic Coast, the capital city of Zagreb is a worthy stop on any Croatian itinerary.

Begin your journey at Ban Jelačić Square, the city’s bustling heart, then wander through the historic Upper Town, where cobblestone streets and the majestic Zagreb Cathedral await. Don’t miss the colorful Saint Mark’s Church, as well, known for its colorful tiled roof.

A standout attraction is the unique Museum of Broken Relationships , a poignant collection of items that share tales of lost love – it’s moving and therapeutic.

Zagreb’s cafe culture is a way of life; join the locals in sipping espresso or enjoying people-watching at the countless cafes.

The capital city also makes for a great place to base yourself if you want to journey across the border into Slovenia to spend a day in Ljubljana . Located just 2 hours away by car, Ljubljana is an easy drive or guided tour from Zagreb.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN ZAGREB

Zadar: A City of Sunsets and Sound

Zadar, a city that marries the ancient and the innovative, is all about sensory experiences. Start your journey at the Roman Forum, where history whispers through ancient ruins. Nearby, the St. Donatus Church stands as a testament to early Christian architecture.

The Sea Organ is another popular attraction on the town’s promenade, playing the melodies created by the sea itself. Next door, the Sun Salutation, also known as the Monument to the Sun, is a solar-powered installation that offers a mesmerizing light show at dusk.

Zadar’s evenings are best spent by the waterfront. As the sun dips below the horizon, find a cozy spot to witness the famous Zadar sunset – a daily masterpiece.

Boat tours are a popular choice here, offering a unique perspective of the city, and, if you’re lucky, the sight of dolphins surfing on the gentle Adriatic waves.

Korčula: The Emerald Isle

Korčula, often called the “Emerald Isle,” an island shrouded in dense forests and dotted with medieval towns, feels like a journey back in time.

There are so many fun things to do in Korcula . Start exploring Korčula Old Town, where narrow streets wind past ancient stone buildings. The alleged birthplace of Marco Polo proudly shows off its medieval charm.

For a taste of local culture, experience a traditional Moreska sword dance performance. It’s a thrilling spectacle that tells a story of love and battle.

Wine enthusiasts, take note – Korčula’s vineyards produce some exceptional wines. Visit local wineries for tastings and get a glimpse of the island’s winemaking traditions.

When it’s time to relax in the sun, Korčula’s beaches won’t disappoint. Whether you prefer sandy shores or hidden coves, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic are waiting for you.

Pula: A Glimpse into Roman History

Pula, a coastal city on the Istrian Peninsula, is like an open-air museum of Roman history. At its heart stands the Pula Arena , a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater that could give the Colosseum a run for its money. Walking through its ancient corridors feels like stepping into a gladiator movie.

But Pula’s Roman legacy doesn’t end there. Take a walking tour of the city to discover well-preserved arches, gates, and temples, remnants of its rich past. The Roman Forum and the Triumphal Arch of Sergius are testaments to the city’s historical significance.

Pula isn’t stuck in the past, though. It’s a city with a vibrant present, hosting film festivals and concerts within the amphitheater’s historic walls, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re up for an adventure, take a boat to Brijuni National Park , an archipelago of lush islands that was once Tito’s summer playground. Explore the safari park, ancient ruins, and beautiful landscapes.

Primošten: Croatia’s Prettiest Town?

Perched on an isthmus with the Adriatic lapping at its edges, Primošten is definitely in the conversation when it comes to Croatia’s most picturesque towns.

There are plenty of things to do in Primošten , but the first is to explore the quaint and historic village.

The old town, a delightful maze of cobblestone streets, sits upon the isthmus like a child’s sandcastle waiting to be explored. It’s here, among the tightly knit stone houses, that you’ll stumble upon the majestic Church of St. George. The church sits at the highest point like it climbed up there to get a better view of the Adriatic. And what a view it is.

But Primosten isn’t just about stunning vistas and quaint streets. It’s also home to Babić vineyards that cling to the rocky terrain with a stubbornness that’s mirrored in the robust local wines they produce. A sip of these, and you’ll understand why the town takes its winemaking as seriously as its beach lounging.

For adventurers, Primosten is more than a pretty face. The beaches surrounding Primosten are some of Croatia’s most spectacular. Primosten is also a launchpad to the Kornati Islands and Krka National Park, offering a smorgasbord of outdoor activities.

Bale: A Step Back in Time

Bale, a charming town in Istria, is a hidden treasure waiting to be uncovered. As you wander through its cobblestone streets and alleyways, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

The town’s medieval architecture, with its stone buildings and quaint squares, creates an atmosphere of timeless beauty. Stroll through Bale’s Old Town and you’ll encounter historical gems like the Soardo-Bembo Palace.

One of the unique aspects of Bale is its vibrant arts scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries and studios, where you can witness local artists at work. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and you might just stumble upon a masterpiece in the making.

Bale also hosts cultural and music events throughout the year, making it a hub for artistic expression. Check the local calendar for concerts and festivals that showcase the town’s lively spirit.

In Bale, time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor the beauty of history, art, and culture in a tranquil setting.

Rijeka: A Port City with a Rich History

Rijeka is Croatia’s largest port city. As you explore its streets, be sure to observe the blend of different cultural influences, from its Austro-Hungarian architecture to its Mediterranean charm.

Rijeka’s Trsat Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city and the Kvarner Bay. It’s a historical gem that’s worth the climb, and the picturesque Korzo promenade below is perfect for leisurely strolls.

The city’s maritime heritage comes alive at the Maritime and History Museum, where you can delve into Rijeka’s seafaring past.

Nearby, the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre hosts opera and ballet performances, showcasing the city’s cultural diversity.

Rijeka’s multicultural spirit is also reflected in its cuisine. Try local dishes influenced by Italian and Hungarian flavors at waterfront restaurants.

Rijeka also makes for a great place to base yourself if you want to take a day trip to some of the most beautiful places in Slovenia , as well – like Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle .

Brijuni Islands: Croatia’s Presidential Paradise

The Brijuni Islands, a collection of 14 islands in the Adriatic Sea, are like a slice of paradise reserved for presidents. Once the summer retreat for the former president of the now defunct Yugoslavia, these islands boast both natural beauty and historical significance.

The star attraction on Veli Brijun island is the Brijuni Safari Park . Here, you can encounter zebras, elephants, and other exotic animals, all living on this Mediterranean island. It’s a surreal experience that feels like a journey to another continent.

But the Brijuni Islands aren’t just about wildlife. They also hold a treasure trove of historical sites, including Roman ruins, Byzantine forts, and the Yugoslavian president’s former residence, now a museum.

Exploring the islands is a breeze with guided tours that take you through their highlights. You can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.

Krka National Park: Nature’s Masterpiece

Krka National Park is a natural wonderland in Croatia. Here, the Krka River weaves its way through a series of cascading waterfalls, creating a landscape that’s nothing short of magical.

The park offers a network of wooden boardwalks and hiking trails that allow you to explore its beauty up close. Be prepared to be wowed by Skradinski Buk, the park’s most famous waterfall, where you can even take a refreshing swim.

For a different perspective, take a boat tour along the river, passing through lush greenery and ancient monasteries.

The sight of waterfalls cascading into crystal-clear pools is a photographer’s dream.

Krka isn’t just about waterfalls; it’s also a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that call this park home, as well as the occasional fox or otter.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND DAY TRIPS TO KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Kornati Islands: A Sailor’s Paradise

The Kornati Islands, often referred to as a “nautical paradise,” are an archipelago of 89 islands and islets that beckon sailors and nature enthusiasts.

Sailing through the Kornati National Park is like navigating through a postcard-worthy seascape. The barren cliffs, hidden coves, and azure waters create a surreal backdrop.

Drop anchor in one of the secluded bays, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your private piece of heaven.

Snorkeling and diving in these waters are unparalleled experiences. The underwater world is teeming with marine life and colorful reefs, making it a paradise for underwater explorers.

While the islands are primarily uninhabited, you can find a few charming fishing villages where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local hospitality. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the catch of the day at a waterfront restaurant.

Šibenik: A Coastal Gem with Medieval Flair

Šibenik, a coastal gem on the Adriatic, is a city where history and beauty converge. Its medieval old town, a labyrinth of narrow alleys and stone buildings, is a treasure trove of historical wonders.

The crown jewel of Šibenik is the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its intricate stone lacework and stunning architecture make it a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance art.

Climb the cathedral’s bell tower for panoramic views of the city and the sea or join an evening walking tour to explore the town as the sun sets.

Šibenik is also known for its fortresses, with St. Michael’s Fortress and St. Nicholas’ Fortress offering glimpses into the city’s defensive past. Each fortress comes with its own captivating history and breathtaking vistas. 

The city’s waterfront promenade, Riva, is the perfect place to unwind and watch boats go by. Šibenik’s lively atmosphere comes alive during summer festivals and events, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in local culture.

And when it comes to dining, Šibenik’s restaurants offer a mix of Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine. Savor seafood dishes and local wines while overlooking the picturesque bay.

Cultural Festivals and Events: Where Croatia Comes to Life

Croatia isn’t just about stunning landscapes; it’s a country that knows how to celebrate life. Throughout the year, you’ll find a calendar filled with cultural festivals and events that bring communities together and showcase the country’s spirit.

One of the most famous events is the Dubrovnik Summer Festival , a grand celebration of the arts. Held in the stunning backdrop of Dubrovnik’s old town, it features theater, music, and dance performances that transport you to another world.

If you’re a music enthusiast, don’t miss the INmusic Festival in Zagreb. This open-air festival hosts international and local bands, making it a must-visit for music lovers.

For a taste of local traditions, attend the Sinjska Alka in Sinj, a knightly competition that dates back to the 18th century. Watch as knights on horseback aim their lances at a hanging metal ring – it’s a thrilling spectacle.

And if you’re a film buff, the Pula Film Festival in Pula is your ticket to cinematic delights. It’s one of the oldest film festivals in Europe and showcases a diverse range of films.

What to Eat and Drink in Croatia

From the coast to the interior, you’ll find Croatian cuisine reflects the flavors of its different regional influences.

Start with seafood along the coast. Fresh Adriatic fish, calamari, and mussels take center stage in dishes like “brudet” and “black risotto.” Don’t forget to try “Dalmatinska pašticada,” a slow-cooked beef stew that’s a Dalmatian specialty.

In Istria, the truffle reigns supreme. Indulge in truffle-infused dishes, from pasta to cheese, and savor the earthy aroma of this exquisite delicacy.

Venture inland to Zagreb, where “štrukli,” a cheese pastry, is a local favorite. Pair it with “kulen,” a spicy sausage, and you’ve got yourself a traditional Croatian meal.

And of course, Croatia is known for its wine. Explore the vineyards of Istria and enjoy crisp white wines and robust reds. In Dalmatia, try the local “plavac mali” or indulge in the sweet dessert wine, “prošek.”

End your meal with “kava,” Croatian coffee, or a glass of “rakija,” a fruit brandy that’s popular across the country.

Tips for Travelers: Navigating Croatia with Ease

While it is good to have an idea of the best places to visit in Croatia, as you start planning your trip, these travel tips will come in handy. Navigating Croatia will be a breeze with these tips that are sure to enhance your travel experience.

• Currency: The official currency is now the Euro. While many places accept credit cards, it’s wise to have some cash on hand, especially in rural areas.
• Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Although Croatian isn’t one of the primary languages to learn for travel, learning a few basic Croatian phrases can be a fun way to connect with locals.
• Transportation: It’s easy to get around in Croatia, and most major cities such as Zagreb, Split , and Dubrovnik which are well served by public transport, taxis, and rideshare. For longer distances, Croatia offers an efficient network of buses, ferries, and domestic flights. Renting a car is a great way to explore the countryside, but be prepared for narrow roads and occasional tolls.
• Island Hopping: Exploring Croatia’s archipelago of islands is a must-do here. Check out popular routes and pre-purchase tickets with Ferryhopper .
• Seasonal Timing: Summer (June to August) is ideal for experiencing Croatia however, be prepared for warm weather and crowds in tourist hotspots.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local specialties. Each region has its own culinary delights, so explore the menus and savor the flavors.
• Respect Local Customs: Croatians are friendly and hospitable, so reciprocate with respect. Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
• Safety: Croatia is generally safe for travelers. Exercise the usual precautions, like safeguarding your belongings, and you’ll have a worry-free trip.
• National Parks: If you plan to visit national parks like Plitvice Lakes or Krka, arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. It’s a wise precaution for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on Croatia’s Summertime Splendor

With its stunning coastlines, historic towns, and cultural heritage, Croatia is an ideal summer vacation. From the sun-soaked beaches of Hvar to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, each of these best places to visit in Croatia offers a unique experience.

As you journey through this picturesque country, don’t forget to savor the local cuisine, attend cultural festivals, and immerse yourself in the warmth of Croatian hospitality.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the Adriatic shores, adventure in the national parks, or cultural immersion in the historic capital, Croatia promises to be an unforgettable trip.

Do you have a question or comment about any of the best places to visit in Croatia? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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9 Best Places to Visit in Croatia, According to Locals

Here's how to see the best of Croatia, from under-the-radar islands to stunning forests and hilltop towns.

The coast of Croatia gets all the love — and though I was born and raised in the country, even I set my gaze on the Adriatic Sea whenever I visit. You can't deny the beauty of hotspots like Dubrovnik and Split, but busy locales like these can also mean crowds, stressed-out service, and little sense of discovery, especially during the peak summer season.

Thankfully, Croatia has more than 1,200 islands you can escape to, as well as coastal towns that remain off the radar, plus a majestic interior that spans idyllic pastoral landscapes and mighty mountains where wildlife roams in nature. There's a lot to see and do — and love — beyond the go-to tourist destinations as well. Here's my list of some of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Jadranko Markoc / Getty Images

For the longest time, Croatia's capital was mostly skipped in favor of more popular destinations down south. That started changing a few years ago, when visitors got wind of the numerous delights this pocket-size metropolis has to offer, including its buzzing art scene and the colorful Christmas market that helped put this city on the wintertime map. Advent festivities, typically held throughout December and into early January, feature alfresco merriment, live music, and street food all around Zagreb's city center, including its ancient Upper Town.

For the plushest place to stay, pick the grand Esplanade Zagreb Hotel , which blends Art Deco flair with the latest modern-day comforts, and serves iconic and traditional štrukli (cottage cheese dumplings) at its restaurant, Le Bistro .

Gorski Kotar

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While the country's coast may be one of the best places to visit in Croatia for local residents and visitors alike, general interest in the great outdoors has spiked in recent years. Enter Gorski Kotar, Croatia's answer to Switzerland, a forested expanse of mountain wilderness that lies southwest of Zagreb, en route to the coast of Kvarner.

This verdant region has become the "it" destination lately, especially for city dwellers looking for an easy-to-reach pocket of pristine nature. Wolves, bears, and the endangered Eurasian lynx can be spotted roaming through Risnjak National Park . Gorski Kotar also offers a number of chic cabins and lodges to rent, such as the spectacular Casa Nube and the adorable Gorska Bajka . Don't miss the chance to indulge in a meal of wild edibles and game meats at the Vagabundina Koliba (Vagabond's Cabin) mountain hut, where the nettle bread is a real treat.

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A string of sweet little seaside towns may line Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula in Croatia's northern Adriatic, but Rovinj steals the show for its storybook beauty. The area is so stunning it tends to get regularly jam-packed with visitors between June and September, so the locals will generally try to avoid it that time of year.

It's best to head to Rovinj outside of that busy season, ideally in October or from April to May. Book a stay at the ultra-sleek Grand Park Hotel Rovinj , one of Croatia's most luxurious properties. An architectural stunner with a cascading structure that slopes down to the sea in a twine of fragrant garden terraces, the hotel showcases impressive views of Rovinj's Old Town , with its cobbled piazzas and steep lanes leading up to St. Euphemia Church , a baroque beauty with a copper statue-topped campanile.

At the hotel's fabulous Albaro Wellness & Spa , try the Batana Bodywork treatment, which involves using a stimulating combination of hemp balm, a traditional Rovinj boat's batana oar, and intense rowing motions to massage your sore spots. A meal at the property's Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant is a sensory adventure, as is a walk around the protected forest park of Punta Corrente (Golden Cape), located nearby. And don't leave without checking out the hotel's secret art room.

Inland Istria

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While first-time visitors to Istria , easily one of the best places to visit in Croatia, make a beeline for the coast, those in the know swear by the peninsula's green interior. And as soon as you hit those curvy country roads — winding their way through the woods, vineyards and olive groves — you'll see why. It's easy to swoon over the area's bucolic charm, home to medieval towns strewn across the hilltops, and shady forests where prized truffles hide.

Luxury villa rentals tucked away in the Istria countryside are increasingly becoming popular hideaways. Take Stanzia Vinella , a renovated and formerly abandoned hamlet turned rustic-chic retreat, with Wabi-Sabi–inspired interiors and an infinity pool that overlooks the postcard-perfect town of Motovun on the hill just across the way. For a meal of Istrian mainstays, book ahead at Toklarija , an age-old olive-mill-turned-tavern on the hilltop overlooking the village of Sovinjsko Polje.

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Few visitors to Croatia pay heed to the coastal city of Šibenik in central Dalmatia; it usually tends to get overshadowed by Split, located just an hour to the south, and, of course, Dubrovnik. What visitors are missing is a true seaside gem, one of a handful of cities in the world with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: St. James Cathedral , a domed basilica built entirely of stone between 1431 and 1535, and the Venetian-era St. Nicholas Fortress , situated on an islet across from the old town.

Šibenik is also home to a number of charming heritage hotels, including boutique Armerun , which opened in summer 2021 along the seafront just steps from the cathedral, and Pelegrini , a seasonal restaurant graced with a Michelin star, where owner and chef Rudi Štefan conjures up some of Croatia's most innovative cuisine. Don't miss a visit to St. Michael's Fortress and Barone Fortress , each known for their alfresco concerts and dazzling panoramas.

Close to Šibenik, the island of Zlarin is best known for its exquisite handmade red coral jewelry. It was also the first island in Croatia to eliminate single-use plastics back in 2019; in the summer of 2021, it was joined by the nearby island of Krapanj as part of a special "Archipelago Without Plastic" campaign.

Locals head here for its beautiful beaches, which may have pebbles in place of sand but offer clear, warm waters perfect for swimming, floating, and snorkeling. Other popular waterfront activities include sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, while landlubbers can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The island is car-free, giving you the perfect excuse to explore it by bike or on foot. Accommodations are few and far between, with just one hotel and a limited amount of apartments available for rent, so during more crowded times of the year (like summer), it might be worth staying nearby in Šibenik and visiting Zlarin as part of a day trip instead.

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Located just off the coast of Zadar, the island of Silba is a car-free, hotel-free paradise that tends to be frequented by those in the know. You'll note a distinct Boho, offbeat vibe, where the creatives of Croatia prefer to hide away in summertime. It’s also a stellar choice for families, as little ones can run around barefoot and carefree.

Be sure to book your accommodations way ahead of time, as rooms can fill up quickly here. And don't miss the chance to enjoy a sunset dinner of freshly caught seafood at Konoba Alavija . Spend your days sunbathing or playing volleyball, basketball, or tennis at the island's busiest beach, Sotorišce, known for its clear, shallow waters. Under the water, the archaeological ruins of an ancient sarcophagus , estimated to be more than 1,500 years old, can be seen just off the shore of Pocukmarak Bay.

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Hvar island may already be on everyone's list of the best places to visit in Croatia, but that spotlight mostly shines on Hvar town, which is known for its funky beach party scene. More artsy and low-key, Stari Grad, located along the island's northern side, has been coming into its own lately as an alternative Hvar base — and for all the right reasons.

For starters, Stari Grad has two World Heritage sites: The Stari Grad Plain , with its striking farm landscape that has been cultivated since ancient Greek times, and an old town that dates back to 384 B.C.E. On top of that, Maslinica Bay, just steps from the ferry dock, is home to the chic Maslina Resort , featuring Asian-Mediterranean fusion flair and design and a spa with "garden to skin" treatments that showcase herbs from the resort's organic garden.

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Taking a trip to Pag is comparable to taking a trip to the moon. The island is well known for its barren, lunar-like landscapes, as well as for the epic parties that take over the beaches of Zrće come summertime. But beyond the raucous revelry, the island is home to one of Croatia's loveliest family-run hotels, Boškinac , which sports an award-winning winery and a Michelin-starred restaurant within a beautifully renovated stone building surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, just inland from the coastal town of Novalja.

Pag is also known for its fragrant, hard, and strong sheep's milk cheeses. Gligora Dairy , which keeps racking up awards internationally, offers tastings of this local delicacy. While on Pag, check out the Pag Triangle — a mysterious land formation near Novalja that's rumored to be the site of a UFO landing — and the walkway through the ancient olive groves of Lun , where most of the trees are as many as 1,500 years old.

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Wander-Lush

33 Most Beautiful Places in Croatia for 2024: Islands, Old Towns, Cities & More

The ultimate list of the 33 most beautiful places in Croatia to visit – from picture-perfect old towns to stunning beaches, waterfalls, and everything in between.

With 1,700 kilometres of coastline, no fewer than 1,246 islands, 8 national parks and countless seaside towns, rural villages and charming old cities, Croatia really is a feast for the eyes.

Whether you’re planning a road trip through the Balkans , looking for a quick city break or dreaming of the perfect island vacation, this list of the most beautiful places in Croatia has something for every itinerary.

If I missed your favourite place, let me know in the comments at the end!

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Croatia essentials

Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your trip to Croatia.

FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Croatia on Skyscanner .

TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo , my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance. Get 5% off when you use my link.

CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent (prices start from 30€/day) or jump on the Discover Cars website to hire a car through an international company.

ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel and apartment deals on Booking.com , the most popular booking platform in Croatia.

TOP-RATED CROATIA DAY TRIP: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split (book through Viator).

How to visit the most beautiful places in Croatia

Most of the destinations mentioned here are easy to reach by bus or ferry (I’ve included brief details for each one below). But to see more of the country, I highly recommend renting a car and setting off on a Croatia road trip.

Driving in Croatia will give you freedom to explore harder-to-reach corners, small towns, and stay at more remote, unique accommodations.

I personally use Discover Cars to check the best rates on a rental car whenever I’m in Europe. Click here to browse their offerings and choose from pickup locations in Zagreb, Istria, or anywhere on the Dalmatian Coast.

For ferry and speedboat tickets in Croatia, I recommend using Bookaway . The platform allows you to search up-to-date routes and fares, compare prices on different companies, and pay online securely. It’s easy to change your ticket or get a refund if plans change. Click here to browse the latest ferry schedules on Bookaway .

The most beautiful cities in Croatia

Not only are these Croatian cities pretty in their own right, each one is a perfect base for exploring more of the country.

A breath of fresh air after the crowds on the Dalmatian Coast, northern Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula is a treasure trove of charming towns and villages . The port city of Rovinj is one of the larger cities and most popular destinations in Istria, luring tourists with its gorgeous cobbled streets, colourful buildings and lively fishing harbour.

Like many settlements along this stretch of the Adriatic, Rovinj was first established by the Venetians and Ilyrians then captured by Rome. Originally an island, it was only connected to the mainland in 1763.

The old part of the city – the rounded peninsula that was an island until the channel was filled in – is the prettiest part of Rovinj, with curved streets, Roman gates, piazzas, a surplus of Italian-style cafes , and the elegant Church of St. Euphemia right in the centre.

Swim at Plaza Balota or find a captain in the harbour to take you out for a day of island-hopping between the 19 islets just off the coast, a must-do when visiting Croatia .

Summer is peak season in Rovinj, so it’s nice to visit in shoulder season when the streets are quiet and the leathersmith and bootmaker workshops are the only stores open. Because of its position, Rovinj is an ideal base for exploring the rest of the Istrian coast.

• Get there: Fly into Pula Airport (40-minute drive) or take a bus from Zagreb, Piran in Slovenia or Trieste in Italy.
• Where to stay: Guest house Sotto I Volti is a charming stone apartment building accessed via one of the old town’s winding alleyways.

Croatia’s biggest city is often overlooked by travellers whose attention is drawn to the beautiful beaches and national parks in the south. But this is one of the most liveable capitals in the Balkans region and not one to miss if you’re a fan of beautiful architecture.

Zagreb is arranged in two parts: The Upper Town (Gradec) and the Lower Town. A third neighbourhood, New Zagreb, sits on the opposite side of the Sava River that flows through the city.

One of the most important landmarks in historic Zagreb is St. Mark’s Parish Church, with its vibrant tiled roof bearing twin coats of arms. The nearby St. Catherine’s is one of the finest Baroque churches in the country.

Admire the glass ceiling at Oktogon, the Secessionist-style tiled facade at Kallina house, rummage through vibrant produce at the Dolac Market, and wander through Lenuci Horseshoe (‘the Green Horseshoe’), a U-shaped configuration of city squares and parks in downtown.

Don’t miss the Mirogoj City Cemetery, a sprawling park filled with ornate tombstones and mausoleums on the city’s northern side. This is the final resting place for some of Zagreb’s most important residents and historical figures. It’s a sombre place, yet the cloisters, domes and ivy-covered walls make it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Zagreb .

• Get there: Fly into Zagreb International Airport or take a train from Ljubljana, Slovenia .
• Where to stay: Bed & Breakfast Sky City Center is just 100m from the Dolac Market and features stunning views over Zagreb’s main plaza.

3. Dubrovnik

By Haley from Haley Blackall Travel

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Croatia. This small coastal city of around 50,000 people is nestled at the Southern tip of the country between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro .

Dubrovnik is a seafront city with a big personality, with stunning old town architecture, red-roofs and a fascinating history. Instantly recognisable thanks to its King’s Landing Game of Thrones fame, it’s become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region.

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is a must-see. This fortified area holds plenty of historical sites within its boundaries, including the Pile Gate, Rector’s Palace and St. Ignatius Church.

Peruse the streets, enjoy a gelato and people watch to your heart’s content. Then head up to the fortress walls for a bird’s eye view of the Old Town. Be sure to wake up early in order to beat the crowds.

Also read: The best places to visit in Croatia in the off-season .

Afternoons are best for relaxing at Banji Beach, a beautiful white pebbled strip a 5-minute taxi ride east of Old Town. For sunset, take the cable car to the summit of Mount Srd for panoramic views of the city and beautiful coastline.

Dubrovnik is Croatia’s main port and the departure point for family-friendly boat trips and adult only cruises around the Adriatic and the Mediterranean.

• Get there: Fly into Dubrovnik Airport or take a bus from anywhere in Croatia.
• Where to stay: If you need a comfortable, compact base for exploring the old town, City Center Rooms boasts views of Old Dubrovnik’s rooftops from every window.

Another gem on the northern Adriatic, the Istrian city of Pula is known for one thing: The Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in Europe.

Built on a low hill, the arena comprises 72 limestone arches that tower 100 feet high. When it was completed around 27 BC, the theatre could accommodate up to 23,000 spectators.

Today, there is a small museum inside the grounds – but you don’t even need to step inside to be floored by the structure’s immense scale and exquisite engineering. All you need to do is take a walk around the perimeter. It’s especially nice at sunset, when beams of light peek through the stone arches.

The arena is still used today to host music performances and a film festival so if you’re lucky enough to be in town when there’s a show playing, make sure you snap up tickets.

For a bird’s eye view of the arena, head to the top of Fortress Kastel. Other points of interest in Pula are a second, smaller arena and the city’s Roman ruins: The Gate of Hercules, Arch of the Sergii, and the Temple of Augustus. These landmarks can all be found in the centre of the city, walking distance from the harbour.

• Get there: Fly into Pula International Airport or travel from Rovinj by bus .
• Where to stay: Apartment Irma is ideally located in the heart of the old town, close to the arena, the Olive Oil Museum, and Pula’s other main attractions.

European Capital of Culture in 2020, Rijeka is the country’s third-largest city and a hub for literature and the arts. Its strategic location at the point where the Istrian Peninsula meets continental Croatia – and its deepwater port – have moulded Rijeka into a multicultural city.

Croat, Serb, Bosniak and Italian communities are all united by their dialect of Venetian language, Fiuman, which is still spoken by around 20,000 people.

Rijeka’s diversity has also shaped the city’s skyline, with a mix of Habsburg-era buildings, Venetian houses and colourful architecture typical of a Croatian fishing port. Life centres on the harbour, while Trsat Fortress behind the city is a must-visit for panoramic views.

As you wander the idyllic Old Town, keep an eye out for the rotunda-shaped Cathedral of St. Vitus, one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

Rijeka is the perfect destination for an offbeat city break while also offering easy access to hiking trails in Risnjak National Park. To the south of the city, a strip of coast around Sablicevo Beach offers rocky coves and white-sand beaches perfect for swimming.

• Get there: Fly into Rijeka International Airport or take a bus from anywhere in Croatia.
• Where to stay: Located on the western side of Rijeka and surrounded by cool, leafy forest, Apartmani Palmas Rijeka offers simple but comfortable apartments and suites.

The capital of eastern Croatian’s overlooked region of Slavonia, Osijek is Croatia’s fourth-largest city and unofficial gastronomic capital. This is one destination to save your appetite for: Local Slavonian specialties including Kulen sausage and Riblji paprikaš fish both make heavy use of paprika – a nod to the city’s Habsburg heritage.

Osijek sits on the Drava river, close to the Danube that flows to Novi Sad and Northern Serbia , and is a very multicultural and historic city as a result. Despite all the different influences that have permeated the city over the centuries, Osijek has its own unique Slavonian cultural heritage that includes Croatia’s biggest Tambura festival (held annually in May) and summer fairs.

No matter the season, be sure to visit Osijek’s most beautiful landmarks: The Co-Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, a stunning Neo-Gothic church built in 1898, and Ante Starčević Square with its historic architecture.

Osijek was the site of a major battle in 1991-1992 and you can see the scars of this quite clearly in the bullet pockmarks around town. Be sure to pay your respects at the War of Independence memorial and visit the iconic ‘Red Fiat’ ( Crveni fićo ), an unusual and moving tribute to an Osijek local who held off troops with his little red car.

• Get there: Take a train (5 hours) or bus (~4 hours) from Zagreb.
• Where to stay: The Bridge is a boutique apartment with free onsite parking.

7. Varazdin

Located in northeastern Croatia close to the borders with Hungary and Slovenia , Varazdin (Varaždin) is home to one of the best-preserved old towns in continental Croatia. This might not be what first comes to mind when you think of Croatia – it’s a long way from the coast! – but Varadzin is beautiful in its own way.

The city is famed for its Baroque and Rococo buildings as well as its medieval fortress. Combined, these create a distinctive urban landscape that’s loaded with history. The Drava River runs through Varadzin, painting a backdrop to the 17th-century Sermage Palace and the Lisak Tower, part of the old city walls.

For a memorable experience, attend the changing-of-the-guard ceremony at Varadzin’s town hall, which takes place every Saturday. Don’t miss seeing the Croatian National Theatre (1873) designed by celebrated Viennese architects Herman Helmer and Ferdinand Fellner.

Varadzin is also known for its colourful festivals including the Baroque Music Festival, held annually since 1971 and Spancir, a street festival that takes place every September.

• Get there: Take a train (~4 hours) or bus (2 hours) from Zagreb.
• Where to stay: This Luxury apartment in the heart of Varazdin is spacious, beautifully decorated and well-appointed for a long stay.

8. Koprivnica

Koprivnica is the capital of the Koprivnica-Križevci county and another charming city in Croatia’s north, not far from Varadzin. Like its close neighbour, Koprivnica has sprawling green spaces, flat roads perfect for exploring by bicycle, and dozens of historical buildings.

For much of its history Koprivnica was a ‘border town’, marking the place where the influences of the Habsburg Monarchy and the Ottoman Empire met. The town visitors see today was mainly constructed in the 1860s, the same time the old fortifications were torn down and the new railway built.

The Koprivnica Synagogue (1875) is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings and a must-visit.

• Get there: Take a train from Zagreb (~2 hours) or drive from Varadzin (1 hour).
• Where to stay: Apartment Cecilia Koprivnica is a comfortable family-style guesthouse with a large garden and old-fashioned hospitality.

Conveniently located in central Dalmatia, the city of Sibenik (Šibenik) is the perfect destination for exploring the beaches and old towns along Croatia’s southern coast. Krka National Park – one of the country’s most pristine natural landscapes (coming up later on this list!) – is easily reached from Sibenik too.

Sibenik differs from other settlements in the area because it was originally founded by Croats. The city has had a tumultuous recent history, with many of its most prized pieces of historical architecture damaged during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s.

The dome of the Sibenik Cathedral of St. James – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – was one such edifice wrecked in the bombings but has since been restored. Today, it’s Sibenik’s main landmark and visitors’ first port of call.

Sibenik has a quartet of fortresses: St Michael’s, St John’s, Barone Fortress and St Nicholas Fortress on the island of Ljaljevic (another UNESCO Site). Each one offers unique panoramas so to see Sibenik from every angle, it’s mandatory to visit all four.

Beautiful in its own right, the Kornati archipelago off Sibenik’s western coast is the densest in the Mediterranean, comprising 150 islands of various sizes and topographies.

• Get there: Fly into Split Airport (1 hour drive), take a train from Split or a bus from anywhere in Croatia.
• Guided day trip: Full-day tour from Split or Trogir , with Sibenik Old Town and a visit to Krka River and national park for the Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap waterfalls.
• Where to stay: Apartmani Rina offers simple, well-appointed rooms and breathtaking sea views from the breakfast terrace.

By Raluca from Travel With A Spin

Zadar lies on the Dalmatian coast, on the way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik , a little under 300km from the capital. It’s lesser known than the other two Croatian cities, yet it’s a surprisingly nice place to visit.

First and foremost, Zadar has a gorgeous old town with Roman ruins, pretty squares, picturesque stone fountains and smooth cobblestone streets that sparkle in the sunlight just like an ice rink. Secondly, there’s a tower one can climb to see all this from above.

Other attractions to look out for in the city centre are the Roman Forum, Kalelarga, the largest street in the old town, People Square, the Square of the Five Fountains, the City Walls, and Queen Jelena Madije Park, the oldest public greenspace in Croatia.

But the heart of Zadar is in fact its seafront. Every evening, locals and tourists alike flock to the water’s edge to walk and chat. Besides the Mediterranean atmosphere, two works of public art draw everyone’s attention. One of them is a massive musical instrument powered by the sea waves, the ‘Sea Organ’. The second one is a huge panel powered by the light of the sun, called ‘Greeting to the Sun’.

There is no beach in the old town, but visitors can take a short 10-minute bus ride to Borik just outside the touristic area.

• Get there: Fly into Zadar International Airport or take a bus from anywhere in Croatia.
• Where to stay: Greta Residence (near the Church of St. Donatus) has spacious, stylish rooms just footsteps from all of Zadar’s biggest attractions.

By Trijit from BudgetTravelBuff

Also on the Dalmatian Coast, Split is a charming Mediterranean city just 4 hours’ drive from Dubrovnik. Split Airport is well connected to the rest of the world, while train, bus, and ferry services are available from other Croatian cities.

Split is historically significant; a place where the Romans left their mark with ancient walls, columns and medieval streets. Like Dubrovnik, filming for Game of Thrones took place here.

Split is safe and perfect for anyone who’s looking for a solo travel destination in Europe . Although Split is a small city, it has plenty of things to offer.

Start your day by visiting the Diocletian’s Palace, which was built in 305 AD as a retirement home for the Roman Emperor Diocletian. Now it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most-visited places in the area.

Old Town of Split is a great place to enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets and cobblestoned lanes. People’s Square is located at the heart of the Old Town and filled with little cafes and restaurants. To get the best view of the city, you must climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, which is considered the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world.

• Get there: Fly into Split International Airport or take a bus from anywhere in Croatia.
• Where to stay: There is no shortage of apartments and guesthouses in Split – for something well-positioned and well-priced, try Central Rooms Split .

Most beautiful towns in Croatia

Compact, walkable and oozing with old-world charm, these coastal and rural towns are the very best Croatia has to offer.

12. Motovun

By Coni from Experiencing the Globe

In the middle of the Istrian Peninsula overlooking the Mirna River Valley, medieval white and terracotta-roofed buildings spot a hill in the truest Tuscany style. It won’t come as a surprise that about half of the less than 1,000 inhabitants of Motovun still speak Italian, and call their town Montona d’Istria.

Strolling around, you’ll recognise the Venetian colonial architecture, with elements of Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Don’t miss the 17th century Church of St. Stephen and its 13th century Bell Tower, nor the Municipal Palace in the central square.

But the absolute ‘must’ when visiting the town is the Motovun Forest, a specially protected area of 280 hectares (690 acres) known for its prized black and white truffles and the slopes where Teran and Malvazija grapes are grown for Istrian wine.

If you don’t want to get up close with the outdoors, this is the perfect destination to splurge, especially if you’re visiting Croatia in winter . Get a table in one of the restaurants overlooking the rolling Istrian countryside and sample the ingenious ways in which the chefs present the local truffles, perfectly paired with wine.

There are public buses going to Motovun from other Istrian towns, but the easiest way to get there and around is by driving.

• Get there: Fly into Pula International Airport (1 hour drive) or take a bus from Rijeka (75 minutes) or Rovinj (50 minutes).
• Where to stay: The panoramic town and valley views from the terrace at Villa Borgo B&B in the heart of Motovun old town cannot be beat. If the season is right, truffle hunting expeditions can be arranged at the front desk!

While the entire Hvar Island is a paradise in Croatia (find more things to do on Hvar later on this list), one of the highlights is undoubtedly the small town of Jelsa. Surrounded by pine forests and greenery, Jelsa sits in the centre of the island, east of Hvar Stari Grad, and has a beautiful bay and long sliver of coastline all to itself.

Today the town has fewer than 4,000 residents, but Jelsa has a long history of habitation dating back to at least 1331. The Gradina peninsula is a hotbed of culture and archaeological ruins – here you can view the remnants of the old city wall that once encircled Jelsa’s houses and churches.

Jelsa’s location on a sloping ridge means there are dozens of observation points in and around town where you can hike up for stunning water views. The fortress of Tor reveals views all the way to Brac and the Makarska coast, while the Ilyrian Grad Fortress teeters above an ancient trade road.

Other points of interest in Jelsa include the 14th century Church of St. Mary, with its bell tower and unique statue of the Madonna carved from wood. Croatian Renaissance Square, the town’s main square, has an ancient water spring and is walking distance from the lush Perivoj public gardens, with its oleander and bay laurel trees, and its curious statues.

• Get there: Take a taxi or bus from the Hvar ferry port (10-15 minutes).

By Jackie from Jou Jou Travels

Hum is situated in the central part of Istria, an hour from Rovinj and adjacent to Zagreb. With a population of only 30 people, Hum is famous for being the smallest town in the world – as recognised by the Guinness World Records.

According to legend, Hum was founded by giants who had only a few stones left to build a city – thus they created a miniature town with what was left.

If you’re planning a road trip through Istria , Hum should be a fixture of your itinerary. You can combine a visit to the town with other towns and cities nearby such as Rovinj, Pula, Motovun, and Groznjan. You only need an hour or two to see everything Hum has to offer.

You don’t need an agenda or a plan: Just walk and admire the architecture and surrounding nature. The town is very simple with a cemetery, twin churches and just one restaurant called Humska Konoba, where you can try Istrian food.

Thanks to the Medieval vibes, visiting Hum feels like travelling back in time. Don’t miss it – even if it’s just to say you’ve visited the smallest town in the world.

• Get there: Fly into Pula International Airport (1 hour drive) or take a bus from Rijeka (1 hour).
• Where to stay: With its rustic stone facade and blue shutters, House Vera is a typical Istrian villa fitted out with all the mod-cons you need for a comfortable stay.

15. Groznjan

Groznjan (Grožnjan) is known as Grisignana in Italian and like Motovun, has a rich history and a deep connection to Italy. Whether viewed from afar or up-close when walking the cobbled streets, Groznjan’s cloisters, paved alleys and stone piazzas make this one of the most picturesque towns in Istria.

Despite its diminutive size (fewer than 1,000 people call Groznjan home), the town has two dozen art galleries and hosts a popular jazz festival every July – hence why the town has earned the nickname ‘The City of Artists’.

From its perch on a flat-topped hill, Groznjan overlooks vineyards and olive groves. The soil in this area is mineral-rich and perfect for growing both grapes and organic produce, which has in turn made this area wildly popular for agritourism.

It’s also one of the most desirable destinations in Croatia for foodies, with taverns cooking up traditional Istrian fare using the glut of fresh produce available at their fingertips. Enotourists will be pleased to learn that some of Europe’s most underrated wines are made in this area.

• Get there: Fly into Pula International Airport (1 hour drive) or take a bus from Rovinj (1 hour).
• Where to stay: App Lidia is a gorgeous self-contained holiday house set in a traditional stone Istrian home, with exposed roof beams and a farm-style kitchen.

16. Primosten

By Martina from PlacesofJuma

Primosten (Primošten) is one of the most charming coastal towns in Croatia and a destination that should not be overlooked. This former fishing village is located in Dalmatia, between the famous cities of Split and Sibenik, and is ideal for an excursion or as a place to stop between the two.

The picturesque old town, which is located on a peninsula, is a real highlight and enchants with its narrow streets and beautiful old houses. While walking around, you will discover something beautiful at every corner. The restaurants in the old town are fabulous, too.

Not only is the town architecture beautiful, the magnificent beaches on the outskirts of Primosten are breathtaking. Seas off the town’s 10km of coastline are turquoise blue and crystal clear, and thus perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

One of the most important attractions in Primosten is the statue of Our Lady of Loretto. Located on a hill above town, the lookout here offers the most exquisite views.

• Get there: Fly into Split International Airport (40-minute drive) or take a bus from Sibenik (40 minutes).
• Guided day trip: Krka National Park tour from Split , with a stop in Primosten to wander the old town.
• Where to stay: Pansion Kamenar is in the centre of the Old Town features a huge rooftop terrace for sunset views .

Located in the hills above Split, Klis is known for its mountain fortress. The town surrounding the stone walls bears the same name and the same views of the coast. A quick bus ride from the city, Klis feels a world away from popular Split and is the perfect place to beat the crowds.

Overlooked by the dramatic peaks of the Klis mountain pass, the small town stretches out at the foot of the castle, it’s stone walls providing a picturesque backdrop to the collection of red-roofed houses.

Within the fortress complex, you’ll find one of only three preserved Ottoman-era mosques in Croatia. Down one of the streets in the town, a rare Turkish water fountain is another hint at this area’s history.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Split (30 minutes) or Sibenik (50 minutes).
• Guided day trip: Tour the Roman City of Salona, Klis Fortress and Trogir from Split .
• Where to stay: Holiday House Dora is a spacious two-bedroom property with a private pool and sea views.

If you’re arriving in Croatia at Split Airport, instead of heading east towards the city, make a detour west to the town of Trogir. The small island that holds Trogir Old Town – a sea of orange-topped houses that melt into the Adriatic beyond – is everything you imagine a beautiful Croatian town to look like, and then some.

On street level, Ciovo island blends Renaissance, Romanesque and Baroque architecture. UNESCO recognised the significance of Trogir’s Venetian buildings in 1997 when it named the entire historic centre a World Heritage Site.

Make a beeline to the Renaissance Chapel of St. John and climb the bell tower for a sweeping view before tracing your way along the preserved portions of the city wall. At sunset, head to the Tower Kamerlengo Trogir on the western end of the island for more spectacular views.

In between, visit some of the 10 churches on the island and wander the streets at will to discover what makes Trogir the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complex in all of Central Europe.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Sibenik (50 minutes) or Split (30 minutes).
• Where to stay: For old-world elegance in the heart of the Old Town, Dimora Picco Bello has delux doubles and suites with elegant furnishings.

By Helen from Helen on Her Holidays

Cavtat is a small seaside town at the very tip of Croatia’s Dalmatia region. Mid-way between Dubrovnik to the north and the border with Montenegro to the south, it’s a great place to stay when travelling around this part of Croatia.

Cavtat is set in a sheltered, horseshoe-shaped bay, backed by mountains. The edges of the bay are covered in dense pine forests, with walking trails and cosy beach bars nestled on the shoreline. The main promenade is lined with palm trees and is a popular place for visiting superyachts to moor. Despite this, the town itself feels remarkably unpretentious.

There are two particularly memorable experiences which you must not miss on a trip to Cavtat . The first is a trip to Dubrovnik by boat. Departing from Cavtat’s lovely bay, you’ll travel past some of the most gorgeous parts of the Croatian coast before arriving at Dubrovnik’s historic port.

The second is seeing the sunset. In summer, the sun sets directly between the two peninsulas which form the bay, with Dubrovnik in the distance.

After dark, you can see the lights of Old Town Dubrovnik twinkling as you sip your cocktail in one of Cavtat’s promenade bars. It’s a magical experience.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Dubrovnik (30 minutes).
• Where to stay: Apartments Ana Old Town is set in a charming stone house close on the peninsula, walking distance from the centre of Cavtat.

20. Makarska

By Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

Makarska is a busy harbour town on the Makarska Riviera, set against the imposing Biokovo Mountain. Visitors can explore the pretty town, its harbour, the Franciscan monastery and a botanical garden. If you prefer something more active, you can hike in the Biokovo Nature Park or even go parasailing.

There’s a lovely pebble beach, which is lined with fir trees and blessed with gorgeous sunsets. There are plenty of good restaurants to choose from in the town, too. You can use Makarska as a base from which to explore the wider area: there is a ferry connection to nearby Brac island, which has the famous Zlatni Rat Beach, and it’s possible to join organised tours of the small Croatian islands and coves.

Makarska is approximately 90km south of Split and 150km north of Dubrovnik, thus it could be a great stopover as part of your Croatian road trip.  There are also bus and ferry connections from the two cities.

However, the best way to get there is to sail! Sailing the Dalmatian Coast is really special, and Makarska often features as an overnight stop on organised sailing holidays in the area.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Split (75 minutes) or Dubrovnik (2.5 hours).
• Where to stay: Hotel Biokovo is a 3-minute walk from downtown Makarska and the central beaches.

21. Novalja

By Phil from JOURNICATION Travel Blog

Novalja on the island of Pag is certainly one of the lesser-known destinations in Croatia. Pag is located between tourist heavyweights Rijeka and Zadar. No matter where you are on the island, you can always see the sea!

The history of Novalja and its surrounding area goes back more than 2,000 years. The Romans used Caska on Pag as an important port on the Adriatic Sea. Today, the remains of their settlements are under water. Everywhere you go you can find great beaches and all kinds of water activities.

The beaches of Rucica in Metajna, Veli Zal in Zubovici and Strasko south of Novalja are all popular choices.

Novalja is also the starting point and accommodation hub for the party stronghold of Zrce, a pebble beach roughly 3km from the city centre. Iconic clubs such as Euphoria, Aquarius and Papaya are located directly on the beach and have hosted many famous artists over the years, including Swedish House Mafia, Tiesto and Robin Schulz.

Every day, after sunbathing and relaxing by the sea, the ‘After Beach Party’ takes place at Aquarius – comparable to Après Ski during winter vacations in the Alps.

So if you feel like a beach break combined with unforgettable parties to complement a visit to the nearby walled city of Dubrovnik , Novalja and Zrce Beach are a great addition to any Croatia itinerary.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Zadar (1.5 hours) or Rijeka (3 hours including a short ferry ride).
• Where to stay: The 4-star Boutique Hotel Boškinac has beautiful suites, a pool and wine cellar.

22. Korcula Island

By Athul from Our Backpack Tales

Popular for its wine scene and exquisite beaches, Korcula (Korčula) is a great choice for anyone seeking a peaceful break. The best way to spend your time in Korcula is to cycle around the vineyards, tasting local wines as you go.

Exploring historical Korcula town is another must. Don’t miss the Gothic-style St. Mark’s Cathedral or the Korcula Town Museum. If you’re visiting during the peak summer season, make time to see the Moreska sword dance, a traditional performance that conveys the story of two kings engaged in a sword fight.

As well as wine, Korcula has a couple of small breweries and plenty of pubs that serve amazing local beers. The seafood is a must-try, with Korcula serving up some of the freshest fish on the coast.

Korcula is only accessible by ferry from Split or Orebic. Times are fixed, so plan your trip accordingly.

• Get there: Take a ferry from Split (2.5 hours) or Orebic (20 minutes).
• Guided day trip: Full-day tour to Korcula from Dubrovnik , including a visit to a local winery.
• Where to stay: Located in Lumbarda on the eastern end of Korcula, Guesthouse Cipre is a traditional family style guesthouse close to white-sand beaches at Prvi Zal, Bilin Zal and Vela Przina.

Beautiful Croatian beaches & islands

Croatia is a nation known for its white-sand beaches and dreamy islands. Here is a short-list of the very best places for sun, sailing and surf.

23. Vis Island, One of the most beautiful places in Croatia

By Megan from Packing Up The Pieces

Hop on the ferry in Split and within 2 hours, you’ll find yourself on one of the most idyllic islands in all of Croatia, Vis. This island still remains an untouched hidden treasure, as most tourists choose to visit popular Hvar instead.

Vis is the perfect place to rent a scooter and breathe in that fresh Mediterranean air. Along the twisting roads, explore the many viewpoints, vineyards and specialty restaurants that prepare fresh seafood.

There is a wide range of beaches, most of them un-commercialised and undeveloped. It’s not unusual to see a lone nude sunbather enjoying the empty coastline! There are a few small boat trips you can take to circumnavigate the island and take in the highlights.

The charming village of Komiza is an ideal place to stay. Here, you’ll find plenty of cobblestone streets that lead to intimate oceanside restaurants. Across the tiny fishing port, explore the adjacent island of Bisevo. This tiny islet boasts its own grottoes (including a Blue Cave), and is a quick and easy boat ride away.

Vis is the best island in Croatia to slow down, relax, sip a glass of wine, and savour the simple moments.

• Get there: Take a catamaran from Hvar town (50 minutes) or a ferry from Split (1.5-2.5 hours).
• Guided day trip: Private tour of the 5 Islands by speedboat (including Vis and Hvar) with snorkelling and a visit to the Blue Cave (departs from Split or Trogir).
• Where to stay: Guesthouse Kod Tri Palme is 200m back from Vagan Beach, walking distance from both the harbour and Vis’s cafes and restaurants.

24. Hvar Island

Consistently listed among the world’s top 10 islands by Conde Nast Traveller , Hvar is a green island with a red-roofed old town typical of the Croatian coast wrapped in a blanket of sparkling coastline. From beaches and coves to the streets of Stari Grad, it really doesn’t get any more idyllic than this.

The interior of Hvar is perhaps the island’s biggest treasure: Vineyards, fruit orchards, groves of olive trees and even lavender fields dominate the centre. Follow the long road from east to west to explore the landscape and visit the small towns and villages dotted along the narrow island.

In Stari Grad, learn about Hvar’s history at the small museums before heading south to Hvar Old Town and summiting either the Spanish Fortress or more-remote Napoleon Fortress for sunset.

• Get there: Take a ferry from Split (60 minutes) or Brac island (30-60 minutes).
• Guided day trip: Full-day sailing tour of Hvar and the Paklinski Islands , with lunch at a local restaurant and sunset cocktails on the beach.
• Where to stay: For something different, Plage Cachée offers luxury glamping tents in Vrboska on Hvar’s northern shore, close to Zecevo Beach.

25. Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn)

By Utkarsh from Journeys From Heart

Named one of the world’s best beaches , Zlatni Rat is by far the most popular stretch of shore in Croatia. Zlatni Rat means ‘Golden Horn’ in Croatian, a name that comes from its distinctive V-shape. This beautiful beach is so popular, it has become a national tourism symbol for Croatia.

The beach is located on Brac island, roughly 3km from the town of Bol. One can easily see the shape of the beach from the road that descends to the coast. If you prefer to travel by water, tourist boats depart for the beach regularly from Bol port.

The beach itself comprises fine white pebbles and is encircled by a Mediterranean pine grove that slowly transitions into the Adriatic. Strong currents from the Hvar channel make Zlatni Rat perfect for windsurfing, wakeboarding, jet skiing and sea kayaking, and there are many cafes, resorts and restaurants around the beach to choose from.

Zlatni Rat is known as ‘the beach that changes shape’ – because of the strong winds and currents, the V shape is constantly shifting, tilting mostly towards the east.

• Get there: Take a ferry from Makarska (1 hour).
• Guided day trip: Off-road tour of Brac Island with a local guide , with wine tasting, views from Vidova Gora and a chance to swim on Zlatni Rat Beach.
• Where to stay: Set on a winery in Bol, 20 minutes by foot from Zlatni Rat, Holiday Home Vineyard House is a secluded property with a private pool and sea views.

26. Elaphiti Islands

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

The Elaphiti Islands is a small archipelago incorporating several islands northwest of Dubrovnik. Covering approximately 30 square-kilometres of land area, the rugged islands only have 850 inhabitants. Exploring the Elaphites is a perfect day trip from Dubrovnik if you want to get away from the crowds or do a bit of island hopping.

Incredibly, the exact number of Islands is unknown. However, as stated by a relatively recent analysis, the archipelago has 13 major islands as well as many smaller uninhabited islands.

Of these, the main ones to explore are Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep. These islands are permanently inhabited and the easiest to get to from Dubrovnik’s Gruz port, with daily ferries available.

The archipelago is a go-to destination for locals during the high season to relax on the relatively quiet beaches, while tourists enjoy historical sights, restaurants and sunbathing.

Kolocep used to be a significant shipbuilding area during the Republic of Ragusa and is home to seven pre-Romanesque churches dating from the 9th-11th centuries. Lopud is the second-largest island, featuring some of the best sandy beaches in the archipelago along with chapels, churches and monasteries.

The largest island, Sipan, has two hamlets: Sudurad and Sipanska Luka. Like the other islands, attractions here include noble houses, churches and monasteries, and many dining venues.

• Get there: Take a ferry from Dubrovnik (1 hour).
• Guided day trip: Elaphiti Islands day cruise from Dubrovnik , with snorkelling and lunch included.
• Where to stay: Hotel Bozica in Sudurad on Sipan is one of the finest hotels in the islands, with sea views from the terraces and pool deck, and an onsite restaurant that specialises in meals made from local, organic produce.

By Milijana of World Travel Connector

If you want to see what true paradise on earth looks like, you need to visit Mljet island near Dubrovnik . The greenest island in the Adriatic Sea, it’s home to the magnificent Mljet National Park, with gorgeous Aleppo pine and oak forests, stunning vineyards, olive groves, two inland saltwater lakes with charming islets, numerous beaches and hundreds of small coves.

The name of the island comes from the ancient Greek ‘Melita’, meaning honey. Legend says that Mljet is the mysterious Ogygia where Odysseus spent several years on his journeys. Today, visitors can swim and dive in the magical Odysseus Cave, famous for its spectacular light effects.

Bike, hike, and explore the island’s trails, swim and kayak in the Great and the Little Lake, visit a Benedictine monastery on the islet of Santa Maria, visit the ancient Roman palace on the island, dive and explore the marine life and an amphorae site, taste homemade local dishes prepared with fresh ingredients…

Just be careful because you might be so overcome by the beauty of Mljet, you’ll be tempted to stay on the island for several years just like Odysseus!

• Get there: Take a ferry from Dubrovnik (1.5 hours).
• Where to stay: Apartments Slavica overlooks the harbour at Pomena and is convenient to the island’s restaurants and beaches as well as the national park.

28. The Blue Lagoon (Krknjasi Bay)

By Ella from Many More Maps

Visiting the Blue Lagoon (AKA Krknjasi Bay) should be on every visitor’s Croatia bucket list. Nestled between the Dalmatian islands of Veliki and Krknjasi, the Blue Lagoon is an area of calm, clear and unbelievably blue water that travellers just can’t get enough of.  When island hopping in Croatia, this is an essential stop.

Visitors come to the Blue Lagoon to swim and snorkel in the refreshing water, snap photos, and sunbathe on nearby Veli Drvenik island, which you can swim up to from your boat.

Since it’s so remote, getting to the Blue Lagoon independently can be expensive and a lot of hassle, thus the most popular (and easiest) way to visit is on a 3 or 5 island boat tour from Split. Another option is to hire your own boat.

Tours usually stop off at the Blue Lagoon for between 60-90 minutes, which is plenty of time to explore the area and soak up its beauty.

• Get there: Join a day tour from Split or Trogir .

By Ruma from The Holiday Story

Cres, Croatia’s second-largest island , is not located in Dalmatia but rather off the country’s northern Adriatic Coast in Istria. This island has been inhabited since Paleolithic times and has witnessed countless historical events, as evidenced in the island’s diverse architecture.

A central road connects several small villages and towns, with Veli Losinj and Mali Losinj at the southern end of the island being the most popular among tourists.

Cres is one of three last remaining habitats for griffon vultures in Croatia, making this a prime spot of bird-watching. Their nesting grounds are found on the northern end of the island around the village of Beli. Lake Vransko, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the country, is another popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

For swimming, the pebbled beach at Martinscica and the hidden beach at Mali Bok are both great choices. For panoramic views of the Tramontana Woods and Niksa and Krizic peaks, follow the hiking trails through the island’s interior.

• Get there: Take a ferry from Rijeka (1.5 hours).
• Where to stay: Guesthouse Maver offers self-contained studio apartments close to Grabar Beach.

Beautiful national parks & waterfalls in Croatia

Croatia’s green heart is every bit as beautiful as its coastline.

30. Paklenica National Park

By Katy from A Rambling Unicorn

Fall in love with Croatia’s stunning Velebit mountains by visiting Paklenica National Park. Located an hour’s drive from Zadar, Paklenica is a gorgeous landscape famous for dramatic canyons and black pine forests. The park is beloved by climbers who can often be seen ascending the various rock formations.

One of the best ways to explore Paklenica’s towering limestone cliffs is on foot. Paklenica National Park hiking trails meander through the Velebit mountains and showcase the region’s rugged beauty. From easy tourist routes to strenuous mountain treks, there’s something for everyone.

The Velebit Hiking Trail (Velebitski Planinarski Put) is one of the park’s most popular routes and leads to several idyllic mountain huts. Visitors can also hike to Manita Pec cave and explore the cavern as part of a guided tour.

Located just outside the entrance, the village of Starigrad-Paklenica makes a great jumping off point for exploring. The town offers restaurants and lodging as well as an outdoor store with basic climbing and hiking supplies.

While arriving by car is the easiest transportation option, visitors without a vehicle can take the bus to Starigad-Paklenica from Zadar and walk to the entrance on foot.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Zadar (60 minutes).
• Guided day trip: Full-day tour from Novalja , with hiking, canyons and views.
• Where to stay: Apartments Paklenica is close to both the old city and the entrance to the national park.

31. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park ( Plitvička jezera ) needs no introduction. One of Croatia’s most-visited tourist spots and popular natural attractions, this gem in the north is home to some of the country’s most postcard-perfect waterfalls and waterways.

Whitewater cascades spill over limestone and chalk rock formations into turquoise pools, offset by lush green foliage. Use the series of short hiking trails and longer tracks that snake through the park to explore the landscape, walking over elevated boardwalks that skim the top of the pools.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its outstanding natural beauty, Plitvice can be visited as a day trip from Zagreb – but it’s recommended to spend a few nights in the area, staying in nearby Poljanak, in order to appreciate the full scale of the park, its many caves, trails, fantastic views and outstanding biodiversity.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Zagreb (1 hour).
• Guided day trip: Tour the upper and lower lakes of Plitvice National Park on foot, boat, and tram with a local guide (departs from Split or Trogir).
• Where to stay: Guesthouse Milka in Poljanak offers cottage accommodations 6km from the entrance to the national park.

32. Skradinski Buk Waterfall (Krka National Park)

By Ilse from Digital Travel Couple

The Skradinski Buk waterfall in Krka National Park is another outstanding waterfall in Croatia you have to see to believe. Named one of the most beautiful calcium carbonate waterfalls in Europe, it’s known for its intense blue waters. There are many viewpoints up and down the multi-level waterfall where you can observe the falls from different angles.

Located inside Krka National Park close to the town of Sibenik, the park is easy to reach by public transport or car. As soon as you enter, you can see Skradinski Buk from the walkway that has been constructed over the river. At the bottom of the waterfall a large natural plunge pool beckons swimmers.

During the summer months, this park can be very busy so make sure to arrive early if you want to experience the tranquility of the waterfall. Entrance fees and opening times vary depending on the season.

• Get there: Take a bus or drive from Sibenik (30 minutes) or Split (1 hour).
• Guided day trip: Krka day trip from Split or Trogir , with Skradinski Buk and Roski Slap waterfalls plus a walking tour of Sibenik Old Town.
• Where to stay: Agrotourism Galic is a spacious house with an outdoor pool adjacent to the national park and a short drive from the waterfall.

33. Brijuni National Park

Located off the coast of Istria and reachable by ferry from the coastal town of Fažana near Pula, Brijuni National Park is a chain of 14 protected Adriatic islands that combine ancient and modern history, beautiful landscapes and notable flora for a very unique experience in Croatia.

The islands were made famous in 1956 when the Brioni Declaration was signed here. Exotic plants and animal species including zebras, Asian elephants and waterbucks – all donated to Tito from Yugoslavia’s diplomatic partners – still live on the islands in a Safari Park. One of the islands’ most iconic attractions is Tito’s cadillac , which is still in good working order.

Also on the islands you can see the ruins of Roman settlements, Byzantine archaeological sites, Venetian quarries, and even dinosaur footprints. A number of hiking trails lead visitors through the park, while swimming is allowed in marked areas.

• Get there: Ferry from Fažana jetty (15 minutes).
• Where to stay: Brijuni Rooms Karmen , beautiful lodge-style suites in the largest island’s main port.

More Balkans trip inspiration

• Top 30 things to do in Croatia this year
• Beautiful places in Montenegro
• Beautiful places to visit in Slovenia
• The best cities to visit in Romania
• Beautiful places in Turkey

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Loved this! We used all of your Croatia posts when planning a recent trip and loved every single thing, so thanks so much for the recs!

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Top Ten Destinations in Croatia

It’s exceptionally hard trying to construct a list of the best destinations in Croatia as there are so many wonderful destinations for a holiday, making it rather hard to choose. The following list isn’t really in any order – as so many of the following destinations are on par – although we would probably always consider Dubrovnik as number one.

Nevertheless, take a look at our list if you’re trying to come up with some ideas of where to go for your holiday in Croatia. If you have any other questions or want to make your own top 10, drop us a line at [email protected] .

1. Dubrovnik

Croatia’s jewel, Dubrovnik is absolutely magical! Its Old Town is truly stunning and an absolute must-see – it’s easy to spend a couple of days exploring, walking the city walls , and visiting all the sights in and around it.

Dubrovnik does tend to get very crowded during the summer months – especially as it receives so many cruise ship passengers – so a weekend trip outside the busiest of months is ideal. Alternatively, putting up with the crowds may well be worth it to see Dubrovnik!

There’s a very wide variety of accommodation in Dubrovnik – from hostels to private rooms to 5* luxury hotels . Some hotels have their own private beaches or swimming areas, whilst there are also public city beaches such as Banje if you fancy combining your sightseeing with some sea ‘n’ sun relaxation.

There’s also plenty of opportunity for day trips to nearby islands – such as the small island of Lokrum (which is very close), the Elafiti islands or Mljet, and other nearby towns such as Cavtat. For the more adventurous amongst you, you can also take day trips to the neighbouring countries of Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina.

2. Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is another amazing wonder within Croatia. With sixteen interconnecting waterfalls, and beautiful flora and fauna, visiting the Park is a truly unique experience.

It’s possible to stay right by the park itself, so you can easily spend a good couple of days exploring its various trails. There’s also a boat tour within the park, as well as a shuttle bus that runs regularly, so you don’t have to spend all your time hiking around.

As one of Croatia’s top attractions, the Park attracts a large number of visitors in the summer months but its size means large numbers are quite bearable. However, the Park is actually open year-round so it’s also more than suitable a destination during winter (and quite stunning to see in the snow). There’s even a very small ski resort nearby; the expert skiers amongst you will be disappointed, but it’s quite suitable for beginners or families. (Not to mention that skiing in the rather unique surroundings is rather exciting.)

Plitvice is a little off the beaten track in terms of where most visitors to Croatia go to (it is inland north of Zadar , and a few hours southwest of Zagreb ), but it’s definitely worth trying to incorporate it into your trip if you can. If you do fancy visiting the Plitvice Lakes, we’d recommend flying into one of these two places, and then using Plitvice as a stop-off point either on your way to or from the coast.

Okay, so we’re cheating a little bit by naming an entire region, but as so many of  Istria ‘s resorts are perennially popular (it’s easy to see why) we thought we would include the whole lot as one destination. The region was totally unscathed by the war so was still visited even during that time, and just after was quick to promote its tourist offerings once more.

With good transport connections including flights to  Pula  or to nearby Italy, it is easy to reach the area. Most Europeans drive down from their home country, but there are also bus connections to Italy as well (from Trieste ) and a summer catamaran service that connects several Istrian ports to Venice – a quick and easy way of combining that fantastic holiday destination with this one in Croatia.

Porec is one of the top resorts – there’s a good selection of resort-type hotels there – although our personal favourite is the charming Rovinj (shown above) and its wonderful harbour. Both of these have a number of sights for you history buffs but don’t forget to visit the  Pula to view the amazingly well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the Arena.

However, Istria’s (relatively!) undiscovered secrets are its wonderful inland, hilltop towns and villages. These include Motovun , which is gaining recognition of its annual film festival, and Buzet, which is famed for its truffle festival every autumn. And not forgetting Hum – (unofficially) considered to be the world’s smallest town, with only 22 inhabitants.

Some compare  Zagreb to the ever-popular Prague, which is no surprise to us. Zagreb is also perfect for a short break with numerous sights, a full events calendar, great restaurants, nightlife and even pretty decent shopping. (Although you’re not going to get any bargains here!)

Zagreb has good flight and other connections to the UK and Europe, so it’s easy to reach – and it’s only around 2 hours from the UK, which makes it a very acceptable place for a city break . Alternatively, Zagreb is also very well connected to the rest of Croatia by train , bus and air , so it’s also a great place to start your holiday in Croatia – spend a couple of nights here, and then make your way to the coast.

Spend your daytime in Zagreb sightseeing – there are very pleasant walks to be had in both the Upper Town (home to the Cathedral, St Marks’s Church, Kamenita vrata, Lotrscak Tower and more) and Lower Town, not forgetting the ubiquitous stroll through the main square, Trg ban Jelacic. There are also plenty of galleries and museums and, befitting a capital, there’ll be a handful of exhibitions and events taking place at any one time.

When all this takes its toll, join Zagreb’s cafe society for a cup of strong coffee – or a refreshing beer – at one of the numerous cafes on the main square or on Tkalciceva ulica in the Upper Town.

Finally, why not sample the nightlife? There are a number of bars and clubs in the city to give you a taste of clubbing, Zagreb-style.

Another great thing about Zagreb is that it has plenty of accommodation – from budget hostels to 5* hotels – so you’ll be sure to find something that fits the bill, whatever your budget.

5. Hvar Town, island of Hvar

Considered one of Croatia’s more upmarket islands, you’ll often read about various celebrities and the well-to-do holidaying on  Hvar each year…but don’t let that put you off. (Although, this may well be a draw to some holidaymakers!)

Hvar is very well-known for its wonderful weather, with the highest annual average hours of sun in the whole of Croatia. The island is also famous for its lavender growing in amongst its beautiful landscape, so you can imagine a pretty heady combination of great weather and beautiful, aromatic surroundings as you relax on the island.

There are a number of stylish hotels located in Hvar Town, and a handful of sights, whilst its wonderful harbour is a very pleasant place to while away your time in early evening, people- and yacht-watching.

There are a few beaches close to Hvar Town, though our recommendation is to head to the nearby small group of islands, the Pakleni islands (local boats will take you there) for a relaxing day out.

6. The Makarska Riviera

The Makarska Riviera is often a top tip for families looking for a peaceful and relaxing holiday. There are a number of resorts on the Riviera, varying in size, and its combination of well-priced hotels , good local amenities (although no night-long clubs!) and lovely pebble beaches means you’ll often find the parent-and-kid brigade here.

There’s not a whole lot of sightseeing to be done, so if you’re after a sea and sun holiday with the little ones, the Riviera is a good choice. The largest resort is  Makarska  itself, others include the more serene and smaller  Brela  and the very popular Baska Voda .

Makarska is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Split so it and its surrounding resorts are easy to reach. (And likewise, Split is easy to get to if you’d like to visit.) There’s also a ferry to the island of Brac for those who want to try something a little different for a day or two, plus a summer catamaran connecting Makarska with Split and Bol on Brac further north along the coast, and Korcula, Mljet and Dubrovnik.

Finally, you can’t escape to notice Mount Biokovo behind the Riviera – for the slightly more adventurous, there are plenty of hiking opportunities. For those that like to take it a bit easier – but still like their views (which can stretch across to Italy on clear days) – a road takes you up most of the way.

7. The island of Brac

One of  Brac ‘s – and indeed, Croatia’s – most famous images is that of Zlatni Rat beach (pictured above). A white shingle beach next to pine trees, it changes shape ever-so-slightly as the tides and winds change. It’s a very popular place during summer, as is much of the rest of Brac; as Croatia’s third largest island with delights such as the above and its proximity to the Split  on the mainland (it’s the closest large island), it’s easy to see why.

The main resorts on Brac are Bol, Supetar and Milna, and all have a mix of beaches and some resort life. Like the Makarska Riviera , Brac is popular with families and for those looking for a relaxing seaside holiday, which is shown in the pretty decent range of accommodation in all the main towns on the island. There’s not too much in the way of sightseeing or culture, and there’s not much to explore inland – although you can head to the island’s highest point, Vidova gora; at 780 metres high, there are some great views.

There are daily ferries to Milna, Bol and Supetar from Split year-round, plus summer connections (from Bol) to Hvar, Makarska, Korcula, Mjlet and Dubrovnik.

8. Korcula Town, island of Korcula

Korcula Town is often described as a mini-Dubrovnik (so that’s one big draw!) but it’s a wonderful place to visit in its own right. With its own Old Town that’s compact (it doesn’t take long to walk around the whole thing) but there’s still plenty of sights to keep you occupied.

There are a number of beaches close to Korcula Town itself, though many describe the island of Korcula’s quiet coves and bays as a must-do if you’re visiting the island.

Korcula Town is connected to the mainland by ferry (the ferry departs nearby Domince to Orebic on the Peljesac Peninsula) so it’s relatively easy to explore this part of Dalmatia. July and August also see a catamaran connecting Korcula Town to the wonderful island of Mljet , and Dubrovnik – so you can compare the mini-Dubrovnik to the real thing. There is also a catamaran connecting Korcula with Hvar and Split.

9. The island of Vis

The island of  Vis is different to many of its neighbours. The most westerly of the larger Croatian islands, its history really sets it apart – used as a naval base during the years of Yugoslavia, the island was completely closed to foreigners until 1989. As such, the island has developed its tourism differently from the other Croatian islands. It’s the place to go to if you want to sample Croatia and its island life but without all the crowds, and where those in the know head to! Vis has grown in popularity in recent years, however; no doubt this is down to the island being used as one of the main filming locations for Mamma Mia 2.

There’s a handful of sights in both Vis Town and the other larger settlement on the island, Komiza. Both only have a few accommodation options, so neither place gets too crowded. If you have your own car (you can also rent scooters on Vis), the island really does lend itself to exploring – set off down the roads and see where they take you.

One of the most popular sights in the area is the beautiful Blue Cave on the uninhabited nearby island of Bisevo . The cave sees sunlight drifting into it that catches the sea waters, creating a stunning, shimmering experience. Boat trips are available from both Vis and Komiza (and also from the mainland e.g. from Split).

There’s a direct ferry from Split  to Vis, so it’s easily reachable; there’s also a route that goes to the neighbouring island of Hvar (which stops at Hvar Town – number 5 on our list) once a week if you’d like to explore some of the other nearby islands.

10. The Elafiti islands

We don’t really want to give the game away about the  Elafiti islands  – Kolocep , Lopud and Sipan – but we’d be hard-pressed to have a list of the top ten destinations in Croatia without including them. Located very close to Dubrovnik, these three small islands are wonderfully peaceful with no cars on most of the islands and, in fact, populations of only a few hundred in any one settlement. They are also only just touched by tourism – though there is at least one hotel on each island and some private accommodation, but that’s really about it for accommodation choice.

There are also not too many sights to traipse around, so you’re not going to get too many day-trippers wandering through the islands – although you’ll also not have to exhaust yourself with sightseeing.

If you’re in or near Dubrovnik , the Elafiti islands are the perfect destination for getting away from it all for a bit, especially so as a nice balance to the aforementioned tourist-heavy city.

Sipan is the largest of the three islands though it is in fact the least developed – which may be a plus for some travellers.

All three of the islands can be easily reached by ferry from Dubrovnik.

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Top 10 Croatian Summer Destinations

By Beau Monde Traveler

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Croatia is a fascinating country with many attractions to keep you busy all summer. Whether you’re looking for beaches and crystal clear waters, historic sites and charming villages, or nightlife and entertainment options, these are the top destinations in Croatia for your summer getaway. Tourists can find a lot to do and see in Croatia, and we will explore the top ten attractions below.

Top 10 Croatian Summer Destinations You Should Consider 

Croatia is a beautiful country with many unique destinations that would make for a fantastic summer getaway. When you see more of this beautiful country, you would want to record the memories and maybe add them to your Instagram page or share it to your social media profile or page. You could click pictures and record videos, making them more interesting by adding music to the pictures or by adding cool effects and transitions to the videos.

Dubrovnik is one of the popular destinations in Croatia for your summer escape. This place in Croatia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful architecture and stunning views. If you’re looking for something more active, Dubrovnik also has plenty to offer. There are plenty of hiking trails and biking routes in the area that will have you exploring new parts of the city. You’ll want to stay in a convenient location to take in all there is to see and do. To arrange your accommodation in Croatia, companies  like cozycozy are a good option. The city also is home to some of Croatia’s best restaurants and famous tourist attractions.

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Dubrovnik and its surrounding areas is by taking a cruise along the Adriatic Sea. A Dubrovnik cruise in Croatia offers a unique opportunity to witness the city’s stunning coastal landscapes and enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean. There are several types of cruises available in Dubrovnik, catering to various preferences and budgets. You can choose from day cruises, which are perfect for a quick getaway, or opt for a longer itinerary that allows you to explore multiple destinations along the Dalmatian coast. If you’re also intrigued by Croatian culture and language, you might explore ways to learn Croatian to enhance your travel experience and connect more deeply with the locals, whether it’s in Dubrovnik, Rovinj, or Hvar.

Rovinj is a beautiful city on the Adriatic Sea known for its luxury hotels and restaurants. Plitvice National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Europe, and it’s also known for its waterfalls and lush forests.

Plitvice National Park

Another great destination in Croatia for your summer getaway is Plitvice National Park. This park is in the jungle near Zagreb and has many different waterfalls, lakes, and forests. The park is also home to bears, deer, and foxes. Plitvice National Park is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning beauty. You can use the picture slideshow maker to combine your photos and turn it into a memorable video of your trip to this land of natural beauty.

Losinj Island

Losinj Island is a beautiful Croatian island perfect for a summer getaway. You can go swimming, hiking, biking, and exploring the many villages and towns that dot the landscape.In addition to spending downtime on the beaches and enjoying the sun, Losinj also offers a variety of nightlife options. There are nightclubs and bars on each of the town’s beaches and lively discos and pubs in the main towns.If you’re looking for something more relaxing, Losinj also has several wineries that you can visit. There are also several golf courses on the island that will provide hours of fun during your stay.

"Whether you're looking for beaches and crystal clear waters, historic sites and charming villages, or nightlife and entertainment options, these are the top destinations in Croatia for your summer getaway."

Solta island.

Solta Island is home to various natural attractions, including beautiful beaches , crystal-clear waters, and stunning cliffs. There are also plenty of activities on the island, such as swimming, snorkeling, hiking, biking, and kayaking and is perfect for those who love nature and want to experience some of the best Croatian beaches.

Pag Island is a small island is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush vegetation.

Lastovo island

Located off the coast of Zadar, Lastovo is a beautiful and secluded island perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun. Travelers can participate in fun physical activities like hiking, swimming, biking, and fishing.

Located on the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is known for its picturesque towns and stunning views.  The town of Hvar has several excellent restaurants, bars, sandy beaches, and winding alleyways.

"Whether you're opting for an urban adventure in Zagreb or exploring the rocky coastline of Dubrovnik, Croatia has something to offer everyone."

Makarska riviera.

The Makarska Riviera is also home to some of Croatia’s most famous resorts, such as Villa Makarska and Villa Mediterranean, with beautiful beaches and a stunning coastline. These resorts offer a range of facilities, including swimming pools, tennis courts, and golf courses.  Other attractions in the Makarska Riviera include the Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zlatni Rat Beach, one of the busiest beaches in Croatia. There’s also Plitvice Lakes National Park, the most impressive waterfalls in Europe.

Murter Island

Murter Island is located in the Gulf of Kvarner and has a beautiful lagoon and coastline. Murter Island is also a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful beaches, restaurants, and shops.

Other top destinations in Croatia include Zadar, Split, and Rijeka. Each of these cities has its attractions and offerings that will leave you wanting more. Zadar is famous for its Mediterranean architecture and history, Split for its lively nightlife and stunning beachfront, Rijeka for its picturesque Venetian harbor, and Dubrovnik for its rich history and impressive medieval architecture.

Every destination in Croatia is beautiful and charming. And to remind you of your adventures when you return home, souvenirs such as customized postcards, enamel badges, and posters, are good keepsakes to take back with you. For those in Croatia, a great way to bring in tourists is to  decorate local dance halls and bars with custom neon signs . 

Whether you’re opting for an urban adventure in Zagreb or exploring the rocky coastline of Dubrovnik, Croatia has something to offer everyone.

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15 top things to do in Croatia in 2024

Mar 16, 2024 • 7 min read

Exploring the winding streets of Dubrovnik's ancient cities is a magical way to discover their beauty Henglein and Steets / Getty Images

There’s much more to Croatia  than its glittering Adriatic coast.

While you absolutely shouldn’t miss all those dazzling islands and the beauty of  Dubrovnik and  Split , the country also offers sophisticated culture in  Zagreb , baroque beauty in Varaždin and a range of landscapes throughout the country that promise both beautiful views and hair-raising adventures.

As you plan your trip to this magical destination, keep in mind our list of the best things to do in Croatia. 

1. Marvel at Plitvice Lakes National Park’s waterfalls

Sixteen lakes and countless waterfalls make walking through the UNESCO-listed  Plitvice Lakes National Park a dreamy experience. Over centuries, this travertine landscape has created a vivid world of shallow lakes and waterways shaded by beech forests, with every shade of blue and green reflected in its mesmerizingly clear waters. Follow the footpaths – many of them on raised wooden walkways – until you reach Kozjak Lake, where an electric boat awaits to take you across the glass-like water. 

Local tip: This is Croatia's largest national park, with forests home to bears, wolves and rare bird species.

2. Get lost in the Diocletian’s Palace in Split

It’s not often you see a Roman palace become such a fundamental and lived-in part of a city. The  palace the Roman emperor Diocletian built for himself in the 2nd century CE soon fell into ruin and, by the Middle Ages, had become colonized by apartments and shops. Today, it’s the place to wander and stop for a coffee as you admire graceful columns and arches that are millennia-old.

Local tip: Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site, around 3000 people live within the Diocletian’s palace still today.

3. Walk Dubrovnik’s walls

These magnificent medieval and Renaissance ramparts curve around Dubrovnik’s old town for nearly 2km (1.2 miles), leading you up and down stone steps and past hulking forts and defensive towers. Set aside at least 90 minutes to wander along the walls, taking in glorious views of the Adriatic, Lokrum island and the town’s sea of terracotta rooftops while peeking into the gardens and terraces of the houses below.

Planning tip:  Avoid the crowds by turning up first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. 

4. Cycle, hike and swim in Mljet National Park

Often visited as a day trip from Dubrovnik or  Korčula , lusciously green  Mljet is worth a more leisurely exploration, especially its national park . Taking up nearly a third of the island, the park is dominated by two saltwater lakes fringed with pine-shaded trails, offering plenty of places to stop for a swim. Hike to the top of Montokuc at 256m (840ft) for sublime views while breathing in the scent of Aleppo pines.

Detour:  Don’t miss the chance to take the little ferry to St Mary’s Island for a wander around its church and monastery. 

5. Take a boat ride through Kopački Rit Nature Park

Spreading across north-eastern Croatia by the Serbian border, the vast wetlands of  Kopački Rit Nature Park  offer some of the most serene landscapes in the country. For a wonderfully soothing experience, hop on one of the boats that gently float through this peaceful nature reserve, where the Danube and Drava rivers meet – the birdlife is quite extraordinary. 

6. Brave the Skywalk Biokovo

You’ll soon discover if you have a head for heights when you step on the glass horseshoe-shaped platform that hovers at 1228m (4029ft) in the  Biokovo Nature Park . Surrounded by the stark, barren beauty of the Dinaric Alps, the Skywalk gives you superlative views of the Adriatic, islands in the distance and mountains that loom behind. If you’re feeling fit, you can hike for three hours from the nature park entrance.

7. Wander through Krka National Park

Not to be outdone by Plitvice, the waterfalls and forested landscapes of  Krka National Park are just as impressive. Start in the village of Skradin, where you’ll pick up the boat service that runs along the Krka River, passing one spectacular waterfall after another. Stop at Skradinski Buk to see one of the most majestic cascades as it tumbles down limestone rocks. Carry on towards the island of Visovac and its enchanting Franciscan monastery . 

8. Take a picnic to Lokrum

A 10-minute boat ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port takes you to a totally different world. Little  Lokrum manages to squeeze in a Benedictine monastery, a Napoleonic fort, a botanical garden, a couple of bars and a restaurant – plus a saltwater lagoon (nicknamed "The Dead Sea") and several rocky beaches. Pick up some picnic snacks from the bakery by the pier and prepare to spend a few hours exploring – or just lazing about. 

9. Visit Pula’s Roman amphitheater

Built around the end of the 1st century BCE,  Pula ’s enormous Roman amphitheater – the sixth largest surviving one in the world – is remarkably well preserved. Check out the lower chambers, where instead of gladiators and caged animals, you’ll find displays harking back to Istria’s Roman-era wine-making tradition. It’s one of Croatia’s most atmospheric concert venues, particularly during the annual summertime Pula Film Festival . 

Planning tip:  If your visit falls between June and September, check out the Spectacvla Antiqva (adult/child €20/10), an evening event held at least once a week featuring gladiator fights and Roman-style clothing, hairstyles, food and drinks.

10. Sip superb wines in Pelješac

Drive along  Pelješac , the long finger-shaped peninsula that veers away from the Adriatic coast north of Dubrovnik, and you’ll soon be surrounded by scrubby hillsides covered in vineyards. Look out for the signs inviting you to come and taste some seriously good wines made by boutique wineries throughout the area. Red wine is king here, notably the robust plavac mali and dingač grape varieties. 

11. Soak up Zagreb’s cafe culture

There’s a good reason why Starbucks hasn’t been able to get a toehold in Croatia. Coffee is the lifeblood of this place, and it goes hand in hand with the need to share some good gossip rather than burying your head in your laptop. And ground zero for this cultural mainstay is  Zagreb , where the cafes buzz with the sound of friends regularly meeting over coffee.

Planning tip:  If you turn up on a Saturday between 10am and 2pm, you can watch the ritual known as špica , when everyone dresses up to the nines just to go from café to café around the main Ban Jelačića Square . 

12. Hit the white water in the Zrmanja River Canyon

With Croatia’s dramatic karst landscapes, it’s no surprise that superb rafting opportunities beckon. North of Zadar, the Zrmanja River slices through the limestone to create deep canyons that guarantee an exhilarating experience. Where the Zrmanja meets the Krupa River, there’s even more drama in store, complete with waterfalls and rapids. 

13. Admire Zadar’s public art

Zadar ’s history is a particularly rich one, with Roman, Byzantine and Renaissance traces all happily layered together in this beautiful port city, the oldest in Croatia. But the modern world blends in seamlessly when you walk along the seafront and hear the haunting sound of the  Sea Organ , an art installation created by Nikola Bašić in which underwater pipes get “played” by the tide. Just next to it is Sun Salutation , a huge circle of glittering panels that light up at night. 

14. Get the best view in Hvar Town

Chic Hvar Town , a place of glossy marble streets and glossier cocktail bars, has a few more aces up its sleeve. For one of the best views along the Adriatic, follow the zigzagging path to the citadel –  Fortica – which has been standing sentry above the town since the Venetians built it in the 13th century, then strengthened it 300 years later. The view from the top is worth the climb, and, at night, the medieval castle is lit up romantically. 

Detour: While you're here, hire a boat and head out to explore the crystal-clear waters and secret nooks of the Pakleni Islands .

15. Explore baroque Varaždin

Briefly the capital of Croatia in the 18th century, Varaždin epitomizes elegance. It’s a riot of rococo and baroque buildings, with beautifully tended gardens and a pedestrianized center that invites relaxed, sauntering strolls. It’s fitting that the city is the setting every September for two weeks of baroque concerts, adding an apt touch of refinement to a truly dignified place.

This article was first published Jun 3, 2022 and updated Mar 16, 2024.

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Where to go in Croatia: 16 Places Not To Miss

Numerous beautiful places in Croatia are worth visiting, but deciding where to go can be challenging.

Croatia is a diverse country, steeped in rich history, with an exciting mix of historical towns , karst mountains, dramatic landscapes , the sea, amazing waterfalls , and national parks .

Croatia’s most popular tourist destinations include Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, Plitvice Lakes, Rovinj, and Zagreb.

However, Croatia also has many lesser-known but equally beautiful places like Kopacki Rit, Plesivica Hills, and Zagorje that are often overlooked by tourists but loved by locals.

Every region in Croatia is attractive in its own way and offers various things to do and see for all types of travelers.

This post covers the most popular places to visit in Croatia, less-traveled destinations, and the best places for different types of holidays. We will also provide a brief overview of every Croatian region to help you select your destination in Croatia .

Table of Contents

16 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

The coastal regions of Dalmatia, Istria, and the Croatian Islands are the most popular places to go in Croatia.

Below, we list the 16 top holiday destinations in Croatia.

• Dubrovnik is the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and the most iconic destination in Croatia.
• Plitvice Lakes is a stunning national park with cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes.
• Hvar Town is famous for its beaches, nightlife, and lavender fields.
• Rovinj is a charming Venetian-style town on the Istrian coast.
• Zagreb , the capital city of Croatia, offers a mix of history, culture, and nightlife.
• Split is a bustling coastal city with Roman ruins and an iconic waterfront promenade.
• Krka Waterfalls is a stunning national park with a series of waterfalls and pools
• Zadar boasts unique attractions such as the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installation.
• Brac Island is home to the Zlatni Rat (Golden Cape) beach and picturesque white stone villages.
• Korcula Island is known for its beaches, wine, and Marco Polo’s alleged birthplace.
• Mljet Island is a tranquil island with lush green forests and saltwater lakes.
• Krk Island is the largest island in Croatia, popular among camping enthusiasts.
• Porec is a charming Istrian town known for Euphrasian Basilica, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Opatija is a seaside resort town with grand villas and gardens.
• Makarska is a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and dramatic mountains.
• Motovun is a hilltop town in Istria famous for its truffles and annual film festival.

1. Dubrovnik

Often called “A Pearl of Adriatic”, Dubrovnik is the most popular place to visit in Croatia, and one of the best-known Croatian destinations.

A perfectly preserved medieval city, surrounded by 2 km long defensive walls, narrow streets, and passages whose worn stone bear witness to the centuries-old history of this city, wonderful restaurants and lively bars scattered throughout Dubrovnik’s streets and squares, and the clear blue of the Adriatic Sea that stretches endlessly, just are some of the reasons why Dubrovnik is one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Add to that pebbly beaches, top-notch hotels, and lovely weather, and you will understand how Dubrovnik makes it to the itinerary of every traveler to Croatia. It is also a great base to explore the nearby islands, and wine-growing Konavle valley, or make a day trip to nearby Montenegro.

Don’t miss circling the city walls, riding a cable car up Srd Hill, and taking a boat ride to Lokrum Island. Get a coffee in Gradska kavana Arsenal, ice cream at Dolce Vita, a glass of Croatian wine at D’Vino, and a yummy meal at Oyster & Sushi Bar Bota .

If you are interested in more Dubrovnik posts, find them below:

• Best time to visit Dubrovnik
• Things To Do In Dubrovnik
• Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Where To Stay In Dubrovnik
• Day Tours From Dubrovnik
• Best Restaurants In Dubrovnik
• Best Dubrovnik Beaches
• Things To Do In Dubrovnik Beyond The City Walls

2. Plitvice Lakes

The single most visited place in Croatia, Plitvice Lakes is a wonderful set of lakes, waterfalls, and cascades. Plitvice Lakes is the first Croatian national park , founded in 1949, and they are also UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.

Located in the heart of the Lika region, in the interior of Croatia, the Plitvice Lakes captivate visitors with their beauty. 16 interconnected lakes, 90 waterfalls, countless cascades, rich flora and fauna, and the inexplicable beauty of the surrounding nature make Plitvice one of the best places in Croatia.

The entire park is crisscrossed with wooden boardwalks and paths making it easy to walk through it.

Explore the park, hike, take a ton of photos, stop for a picnic, and rent a wooden boat on Kozjak Lake.

Read our ultimate travel guide to Plitvice Lakes or check our post on Plitvice Lakes accommodation .

3. Hvar Town

A playground for the rich and famous, the town of Hvar is located on the south side of Hvar Island, in a small bay. Hvar Town is winding cobbled streets, yachts-lined seafront, beaches, a day spent on the Pakleni Islands, restaurants, and partying until the wee hours.

Pack your beach gear, and make sure you don’t miss it on your Croatian itinerary!

• Travel Guide To Hvar Island, Croatia
• How To Get From Split to Hvar
• Split or Hvar: Where to Stay?
• Where To Stay In Hvar, Croatia
• Things To Do In Hvar

The most romantic town in Croatia, Rovinj will charm you with its narrow cobbled streets and piazzas, top-notch restaurants , hip hotels , and stunning nature . Rovinj is certainly one of the best places in Croatia and should make the Croatia bucket list of every traveler.

More about Rovinj:

• Things To Do In Rovinj
• Where To Stay In Rovinj
• Rovinj Travel Guide
• Best Restaurants in Rovinj
• Best Hotels in Rovinj

The first town from inland Croatia to make it to our best of Croatia list is the Croatian capital, Zagreb. So, make sure to take a day or two to explore the capital . If you are flying to Croatia, there is a good chance you will fly into Zagreb Airport when arriving in Croatia. It’s the biggest transport hub in the country!

Zagreb doesn’t have the charm or grandeur of other big European capitals like Paris, Rome, or London. But, nevertheless, the town has a cool vibe , interesting sights , lots of green spaces , and quirky museums . The town center is car-free  and full of locals lounging at the pavement cafes. It’s one of the best spots in Croatia and definitely worth your time.

Read more about Zagreb:

• Things To Do In Zagreb
• Zagreb Travel Guide
• Car Rental In Zagreb
• Where To Stay In Zagreb
• Best Restaurants In Zagreb For Lunch
• Must-try Restaurants In Zagreb
• Best Places For Bear In Zagreb
• Christmas Markets in Zagreb

The largest town in Dalmatia, Split is a true Mediterranean city: colorful and lively, with a nice balance of tourists and locals. Over 1700-year-old Diocletian Palace is the heart of the city, an open-air museum, a living and breathing place where you can feel Split’s past and present.

Explore Diocletian Palace and get lost in the maze of narrow cobblestone streets, people-watch at Riva – the seafront promenade, climb the bell tower for the best views over the town, chill with coffee at Zbirac, play a game of local sport picigin at Bacvice Beach, have a dip in the Adriatic on one of many beaches in Split, have a dessert at Os’ Kolac, town’s best pastry shop. Interested in more? Below are all our posts about Split, Croatia!

• 20 Best Things To Do In Split
• 26 Unique Activities In Split
• Where To Stay In Split
• Day Trips From Split
• A Day Trip From Split To Hvar
• Split Croatia Travel Guide
• Best Restaurants In Split
• Split Beaches
• Best Bars & Clubs In Split
• How To Get From Split To Dubrovnik

7. Krka Waterfalls

The second most popular national park in Croatia (after Plitvice Lakes!), Krka National Park is simply gorgeous and one of the must-visit places in Croatia.

A series of tufa cascades, emerald green waters, deep canyons of Krka River, water mills, monasteries, and a complex of boardwalks and wooden paths attract visitors from around the world to this beautiful natural site.

Make sure you access the park by boat from nearby Skradin. Also, if you visit the park from June through September, you’ll be able to swim at the designated areas in the park.

You can visit Krka Waterfalls on a day trip from Split. Check out this Krka National Park Day Trip with a Boat Ride !

Set on a small peninsula and still not overrun with tourists, Zadar is famed for its two main attractions: Sea Organ and Sun Salutation. Zadar is also a perfect base to explore nearby islands and partake in outdoor adventures like rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, and hiking.

• Travel Guide To Zadar
• Accommodation in Zadar
• Photo Journey through Zadar

9. Brac Island

Located in central Dalmatia, the island of Brac is less than an hour’s ferry ride from Split or Makarska. Brac Island is famed for the Zlatni Rat beach, the most photographed and best-known beach in Croatia.

Golden Cape Beach is located in Bol, the most popular tourist hub on the island. Besides this famed beach, the island abounds in many beautiful pebbly and sandy beaches. These beaches, along with the island’s proximity to Split, good tourist infrastructure, and yummy local food, including roasted lamb, sheep cheese, and good olive oil, make Brac one of the most popular islands in Croatia.

• Brac Island Travel Guide
• Accommodation on Brac Island
• Things To Do in Brac
• A weekend in Brac Island
• Random Facts About Brac Island
• Stina Winery

10. Korcula Island

A wonderful southern Croatian island, Korcula is just a 15-minute ferry ride from the Peljesac peninsula. Terraced vineyards, olive groves, secluded beaches, pinewoods, small villages, historical towns, good food, and local white wines, Posip and Grk, characterize the island of Korcula.

• Life is simple on Korcula Island
• Korcula Island Accommodation
• Activities on Korcula Island

11. Mljet Island

The greenest Croatian island, Mljet, is a perfect place to enjoy nature and unwind. The national park covers one-third of the island, and this is where the majority of tourists wander. The southern part of the island receives very few crowds but hides some of the nicest beaches on the island.

• Accommodation in Mljet
• Activities on Mljet Island

12. Krk Island

The second-largest Croatian island, Krk is connected to the mainland with a bridge. And thus, easily accessible . The island of Krk has many nice secluded beaches only accessible by boat or on foot, good restaurants , and various outdoor activities to enjoy.

Find your accommodation in Krk!

Year after year, loads of tourists from all over Europe come to Porec to spend their summer holidays. Porec is a town of culture and history that are nicely blended with exciting activities , decent nightlife , and overall good value for money . Don’t miss the Euphrasian Basilica, UNESCO’s World Heritage Site, and the most popular Porec landmark.

More about Porec:

• Things To Do In Porec
• Porec Travel Guide
• Where To Stay In Porec
• Porec restaurants
• Porec Beaches
• What To See In Porec

14. Opatija

The lady got old, but she’s still charming. Opatija was built in the late 19th century into one of the most fashionable resorts for the international elite, artists, writers, and the Austrian nobility.

Historical hotels and villas, maintained gardens and parks, a 12 km long seaside promenade , and first-class gastronomy make Opatija one of the most popular destinations in Croatia.

• 5 reasons to visit Opatija
• Best accommodation in Opatija

15. Makarska

Located halfway between Split and Dubrovnik, Makarska is a small beach town with a lovely town square and a seafront promenade lined with bars, cafes, restaurants, and pebbly beaches.

Makarska boasts beautiful white pebbly beaches ( beaches along Makarska Riviera are the best in all of Croatia), crystal clear sea, secluded coves, and bays, while the Biokovo Mountain creates a perfect backdrop and offers endless opportunities for those looking for active holidays.

• Makarska Travel Guide
• Accommodation in Makarska
• Activities in Makarska

16. Motovun

Motovun, a small inland town in Istria, is a real gem! Located on a hilltop with views stretching far and wide across Mirna Valley and famed for white truffles foraged in the nearby forests, it attracts foodies. It is especially popular in October when the truffle season is at its peak.

Stay at B&B Villa Borgo ! It has a lovely terrace with the best views in the town and a cool vibe, and it is owned and managed by our good friend, Slaven.

• Accommodation: Find here a wide selection of affordable accommodation in Croatia!
• Rent A Car: Check the best car rental deals here!
• Local Tours & Day Trips: Browse here a great choice of local tours and day trips!
• Bus Tickets: Book your bus tickets online here!
• Find Cheap Flights: Search flights in real time and book online.
• Ferry Tickets: Avoid lines by booking your ferry tickets online!
• Multi-Day Tours: Amazing choice of multi-day coach and boat tours of Croatia!
• Travel Insurance: Have a peace of mind with EKTA Travel Insurance.
• eSIM: Surf worry-free with Airalo eSIM card!

Croatian Regions

Croatia has a total of 21 administrative units: 20 counties and the city of Zagreb. However, from a traveler’s point of view, we find that there are 7 distinctive regions of Croatia.

In short, these include:

• Istria & Rijeka , the northern Adriatic region;
• Dalmatia , the southern Adriatic region;
• Dubrovnik Riviera , the southernmost part of Croatia;
• Croatian islands and continental regions of
• Slavonija & Baranja ,
• Lika & Gorski Kotar , and
• Zagreb and its surroundings

Istria & Rijeka

The most visited region in Croatia, Istria, is a heart-shaped peninsula in the northern Adriatic.

Moreover, Istria is rolling hills , charming hilltop towns , colorful coastal towns, rocky coasts , vineyards , and olive groves . Above all, Istria is a great place to visit in Croatia for foodies.

Many visitors compare it with Tuscany and sometimes call it “Tuscany with colors”. Istria is also a place we call home (another reason to visit, perhaps?!).

Dalmatian Coast

Vera comes from Dalmatia, and Dalmatia is very close to our hearts. Dalmatian Coast stretches from Zadar in the north to the Peljesac peninsula in the south.

Above all, Dalmatia has rugged mountains , pebbly beaches , hidden coves and bays, dramatic landscapes , thousands of islands, UNESCO’s world heritage sites (5 out of 7 are in Dalmatia), national parks (4 out of 8 are located along the Dalmatian Coast), and ancient towns .

Croatian Islands

The Croatian side of the Adriatic is dotted with a thousand islands, islets, and reefs. However, only a small number of them are inhabited.

Moreover, when you think about Croatian islands, imagine small villages , fishing boats , wonderful, secluded beaches , terraced vineyards , sheep and goats grazing on the meadows, fresh veggies , and super tasty fruit .

But furthermore, each island is a world for itself. In other words, some islands offer a very laid-back vibe, some are perfect family destinations, and some attract the young and restless.

Which island is the best to visit in Croatia depends a lot on your style of travel and what you are after.

Dubrovnik Riviera

The southernmost part of Croatia, Dubrovnik Riviera, stretches from the Peljesac peninsula to Konavle south of Dubrovnik.

First of all, Dubrovnik Riviera has history and culture , salt pans, wonderful architecture , preserved coast , vineyards, citrus and orange orchards, scenic roads, fresh seafood, and lovely beaches .

Zagreb & surroundings

A Croatian capital town, Zagreb is the largest town in Croatia, but also an administrative and economic center of the country.

Zagreb is above all myths and legends , river Sava , hills of Kaptol and Gric , buzzing cafes with street-side terraces, lovely restaurants , cool hostels , clubbing , green spaces, parks, and forests .

Gorski Kotar & Lika

The least visited part of Croatia, these two continental regions are perfect for those searching for peace and quiet.

Gorski Kotar & Lika are mountains and pastures , natural wonders of Plitvice and Risnjak , emerald rivers , streams , creeks and rapids , snow -covered peaks, vast spaces , and very few crowds (except for Plitvice Lakes).

Slavonia & Baranja

Very few tourists wander to this part of Croatia. Slavonia and Baranja (the easternmost part of Croatia) are very beautiful and interesting parts of Croatia, although they still lack tourist infrastructure.

However, Slavonia and Baranja are golden plains , centuries-old forests , beautiful Danube, Drava, and Sava rivers , spicy food , folklore festivals, and becarac , a traditional song that made it to the UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

Offbeat Places To Visit In Croatia

Despite being a popular tourist destination with over 20 million visitors and more than 110 million overnight stays per year, Croatia still has many quiet and less crowded spots to explore. If you are searching for hidden gems, charming and less crowded destinations that are perfect for a great vacation, you can consider visiting Peljesac Peninsula, Komarna, Vis or Lastovo islands, or some of the continental destinations like Kopacki Rit. Check out our list of 11 hidden gems to visit in Croatia .

Type of holidays

If you search for a specific type of holiday, that fact alone can narrow your choice of where to stay in Croatia.

While some activities, like water sports, are available in all holiday destinations in Croatia, rafting, canyoning, or tandem jumping can only be found in a few places in Croatia.

We list below some of the common reasons people visit Croatia to make it easier for you to choose where to go on holiday in Croatia.

Croatia beach holidays

If you wonder where to go in Croatia for beaches, check Rabac in Istria , northern Croatian Islands like Krk, Cres, and Rab, and the wonderful Makarska Riviera.

Get inspired by reading the following posts:

• 49 Awesome Croatia Beaches
• Sandy Beaches In Croatia: Where To Find Them
• 5 Things I Love About Croatia Beaches

Although Croatia isn’t Ibiza, in the last few years, some destinations in Croatia have turned into clubbing hot spots with excellent clubbing scenes, a load of music festivals, and pretty much partying 24/7.

Zrce Beach, n ear Novalja on the island of Pag, is the best-known party destination in Croatia, followed by Tisno on the island of Murter and Pula in Istria. Tisno and Pula organize many festivals throughout the summer .

In addition, other best places to go in Croatia for nightlife include Porec, Hvar Town, and Zagreb.

Outdoor Adventure

In Croatia, you’ll have lots of opportunities for all kinds of outdoor activities . But when it comes to ultimate adventures, two places in Croatia stand out – Zadar and Omis.

Omis is a small town 25 km south of Split. It’s a place where the river Cetina reaches the sea. The river flows through a beautiful canyon, which provides ample possibilities of canyoning, white water rafting , canoeing, rock climbing, trekking, and zip-lining, among other things.

Zadar, on the other hand, is perfectly located to enjoy ultimate rock climbing in Paklenica National Park, hiking, and mountaineering. Also, the Zrmanja River Canyon, perfect for rafting and kayaking, is just a short drive from Zadar.

Away from it all

Do you like long, quiet walks, secluded beaches, mingling with locals rather than tourists, the slow pace of life , and basically not much to do except relax ?

If the answer is Yes, look for places on the smaller, northern & southern Croatian Islands , like Iz, Pasman, Silba, Mljet, or Lastovo, small villages along the Dalmatian coast and the Peljesac peninsula .

Family holidays

You’ll find a nice balance of beach time, activities for the whole family, family-friendly, and overall good value for money in Porec, Rabac, Rovinj, Losinj, Zadar, Sibenik, and Bol. Thus, narrow your search down to these destinations.

All-inclusive holidays

Croatia isn’t a popular all-inclusive destination. However, you will still find some all-inclusive hotels.

You will also notice that many hotels in Croatia offer an all-inclusive light formula. In other words, this means you get three meals a day and a selection of drinks at mealtimes. At all other times and at all other hotel bars, you will need to pay for your drinks. There are no free snacks either.

Also, all-inclusive hotels in Croatia are mostly intended for families with children.

If you are unsure where to visit Croatia for all-inclusive holidays, check these Croatia destinations: Rabac, Porec, Funtana, Zadar, and Makarska Riviera.

You’ll find good destinations for couples with romantic towns, a good choice of restaurants, and cozy accommodations in Rovinj, Opatija, Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, and Vis Island.

Centrally located

If you would like to find a good base from which you can explore many Croatian points of interest, even by public transport, consider staying in Split, Zadar, and Sibenik.

Recommended multi-day tours

Below, you’ll find a few coach and boat tours allowing you to do some serious Croatia sightseeing relatively quickly.

Best of Croatia Tour

This tour takes you to Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Hvar and Korcula Islands, and Dubrovnik. Moreover, you can choose between 7- and 9-night tours . The 9-night tour gives you an additional two nights in Dubrovnik where you can take more time to explore this magnificent city and its surroundings. Transport between towns is with an air-conditioned coach, and all overnights are in 3- and 4-star hotels, with breakfast included.

MORE INFORMATION HERE!

7- or 10-day Authentic Croatia Private Tour

This wonderful 7- or 10-day tour gives you plenty of time to discover all corners of Croatia, including Istria, Zagreb, Plitvice, Zadar, Split, Hvar Island, Dubrovnik. And all that while indulging in top Croatian food , and other aithentic local experiences. itinerary is flexible and can be adjusted to your interests. Accommodation in luxury apartments. Breakfasts, lunches and two dinners provided. Transfer between towns is by luxury mini-van.

Cycle Croatia Cruise

This 7-day cruise departs from Split and it includes visits to several Croatian islands before ending up in Dubrovnik:Solta, Brac, Hvar, Vis, Korcula i Mljet. Take your bicycle along or arrange a bike rental, and you can explore Croatian islands by bike wheter on your own or as a part of the group. Accommodation is provided on-board a passenger boat with a capacity of 32 passengers. The tour also includes daily breakfast and lunch onboard a ship. All shore excursions are optional, and charges may apply.

Croatian islands cruise + Land tour with Plitvice – from Zagreb

Combine the best of continental and the Adriatic region with this 10-day coach and boat tour. This tour will take you to 11 places in Croatia including Zagreb, even 5 Croatian islands (Mljet, Sipan, Korcula, Hvar, and Brac islands), Dubrovnik, Split, Makarska, and a beautiful Peljesac peninusla.

Best of Croatia and Slovenia

Packed-full of exciting destinations, this 11-day tour takes you through the most popular places in Croatia and Slovenia, including Ljubljana, Bled, Rovinj, Opatija, Plitvice, Trogir, Split, and Peljesac peninsula. A highlight of this discovery tour is one special dinner where you get a chance to eat at the local family home, a traditional meal prepared by the host family.

Recommended travel guides

• Fodor’s Croatia Travel Guide (we are co-authors!).
• Lonely Planet Croatia Travel Guide
• Rick Steves Croatia & Slovenia

Further reading:

• Croatia Travel Guide: 26 Things To Know Before Traveling To Croatia
• Things To Do In Croatia
• Ultimate Guide To Accommodation In Croatia
• Packing List For Vacation In Croatia
• How To Choose Your Destination In Croatia
• Outdoor Activities in Croatia
• 49 Awesome Beaches In Croatia
• Snorkeling In Croatia
• White Water Rafting In Croatia
• 20 Must-Try Foods In Croatia

After reading this post, we hope you get a better idea of where to go to Croatia. As always, if you have any questions or suggestions, leave them in the comments below. 

Frankaboutcroatia.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. This post might also contain affiliate links to other sites, like accommodation or activities. And if you purchase anything using these links, we earn a little commission with no extra costs for you. Thank you for supporting our blog! Read full disclaimer here.

Home / Croatia Travel Tips / Where to go in Croatia: 16 Places Not To Miss

17 thoughts on “Where to go in Croatia: 16 Places Not To Miss”

Rijeka to Zadar via old road, Split to Dubrovnik via coastal road, Peljesac Peninsula

Hi planning on visiting croatia on motorbike tour what would you say are the must see places not to miss thinking of Dalmatian coast some nice scenic routes and split and debrovnic thanks

Hi An, thanks! Not really, but generally speaking 2 to 4 days should suffice.

This page was very informative–thank you! Is there somewhere on your site that I can find recommended length of stays for each city?

I am really enjoying your website. We are a family of 5 with children ages 17, 15 and 12. We are in Croatia for 7 days only and landing in Zadar and will spend 3 nights there where we are going to do tours to Plitvice Lakes and Krka Waterfalls. From there were are going to drive to Split for lunch and then we would like to spend 4 nights on a beach. We were thinking a hotel in Brela, but I am not 100% confident that this is the right place to stay. We want a nice beach so that we can relax and enjoy some nice dinners with the family. The kids are okay hanging out by the beach or pool all day or being active, they are pretty easy going on vacation. Let me know your thoughts, we fly out at 11:20 am in the morning from Split so we need to be within a 1-2 hour drive from Split the morning before we leave. Let me know your thoughts on using Zadar as a base to visit the two parks and then staying in Brela. Thank you in advance

Hello Frank, first of all I wanted to thank you and congratulate you for this site. It is honestly the best guide to any destination I have ever traveled to. I am planning on going to Croatia on mid-April with my wife (first time in Croatia). I wanted to ask you how is the weather to go to the beach during this days? Will it still be a little cold to relax on the beach and get in the sea? Thanks!

Do you have any recommendations on companies providing day trip tours? We are renting a car on our trip but would appreciate a guided tour in places like Split, Dubrovnik, Zagreb, & Plitvice Lakes. Thank you!

Shetal, really hard to say without knowing what you like. If this would be your first time in Croatia, try to cover highlights: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Split, Hvar (Korcula or Brac), and Dubrovnik.

Traveling with the family (Girls 9,11) in June for 9 days. Want to get a little taste of everything. How would suggest we spend our time. We love the outdoors, beaches, sea and being active.

i will be renting a car next june for the day (8am-8pm) and was wondering if you would recommend an itinerary for me. i wont mind the driving and trying to fit in a few places in this limited time. it would be more sites and views than stopping off at a beach or a museum if you know what i mean!

thanks very much and appreciate the effort.

cheers, aaron

Hi Janine, congrats on your wedding. I think that visiting those 4 places in 2 weeks time is doable. Stay in Split for one day before leaving for Vis, and another day after returning from Vis. And the rest of days split between Dubrovnik, Rovinj, and Vis. Rovinj and Vis are more relaxing than Dubrovnik. Enjoy it!

Hi Frank, I really appreciate your website. It’s helpful and a great resource. My fiancee and I are getting married in September and planning on spending 2 weeks in Croatia. I was initially thinking Split, Vis, Hvar, and Dubrovnik- but you’ve sort of sold me on Rovinj as well! We love the outdoors but also want to have a relatively relaxing vacation. Wondering if it would be too much to go to Rovinji, Split, Vis and Dubrovnik in 2 weeks? Any other places I should see along the way? recommendations would be appreciated….

I am going to be traveling to Croatia for about 2-3 months with my 5 year old in a few weeks. We will either make our way down the coast and up to Istria or the other way round. I realize it’s heavy tourist time. Any thoughts or recommendations. We usually travel to one city and stay put. Want to provide some sort of stability and sanity so will likely have to stay in intervals of 10 days at a time or longer if we find a place we love. I would appreciate any thoughts you might have. Also what is your direct email? I was unable to find it. Many Thanks!!

A friend and I are planning to spend a week in Croatia, following a 5 day trip to Slovenia. We will be travelling into Croatia from Tolmin by train and may rent a car while we are in Croatia. We would like to visit some nice beaches, do some hiking and also some scuba diving. I would love to see some shipwrecks but my friend is not an experienced diver so will need somewhere with some easy/ beginner dive spots too. Where do you recommend? Thanks very much!

We are the total opposite of the cliché tourists. XD We only visited the inland (with Opatija) since we aren’t beach types. I think the inland is more relaxed than the coast,I enjoyed Karlovac the most. I think it has it’s own charm.

What a great over-view guide for where to go in Croatia. I see so many forum posts by people asking exactly this. Hopefully it’ll help with lots of travellers’ planning!

We love Croatia and have visited the country a few times. In Dubrovnik, we particularly loved walking atop the Old City Walls. For a teenier version of Dubrovnik, Trogir is absolutely charming – we’ve written about Trogir on our blog :-).

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25 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

From the first moment we set foot in the country, we have counted Croatia among our favorite places to visit in the world. With each trip, we seem to not only check off a few more items from our list of the best places to visit in Croatia, find a few unexpected corners, and fall a little further in love with the country–we also seem to consistently leave with a bigger bucket list than we started with!

Planning a trip to this stunning country on the Adriatic and ready to start brainstorming where to go in Croatia?

From towns boasting endless terracotta rooftops along the sparkling Dalmatian coast to the waterfalls of Croatia’s national parks to the unexpected charm of its capital, here are some of the most beautiful places in Croatia to visit!

Table of Contents

Beautiful Cities + Towns to Visit in Croatia

Croatian islands + beaches to explore, more of the best places to visit in croatia.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Located in southern Croatia , Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Croatia. This historical city is popular for its medieval old town, surrounding city-walls, and stunning landscapes.

Dubrovnik is not a big city but you will find a lot of things to do and several outdoor activities that will keep you busy. Walking along the top of the city’s walls is the most popular tourist activity in Dubrovnik. It will take around two hours to complete the full circuit. Undoubtedly the path is beautiful but it can be crowded during the summer months.

I recommend starting early to avoid the crowd and get the best view of the city. It is also popular for Game of Thrones shooting locations. You can easily recognize King’s Landing from the top of the walls.

After your wall tour, explore the narrow streets of the Old Town which are filled with restaurants and small shops. You will notice that almost all the buildings share the same design that makes it a picturesque place.

Looking for some adventure activities? Then you must go for a sunset tour by kayak. Enjoy the views of the great walls from a different angle and a shimmering sunset from your kayak at the Adriatic Sea.

From Michael of The World Was Here First

One of the best places to visit in Croatia is the country’s second-largest city of Split. Located on the Dalmatian Coast, Split not only makes a fantastic base to explore the surrounding towns but is also packed with interesting things to do and places to see in the city itself. Travelers can easily spend a   few days in Split  exploring the highlights!

One of the best things to do in the city itself is to explore the Diocletian’s Palace area which is filled with interesting sites such as Jupiter’s Temple and the Cathedral of St. Domnius, where visitors can climb the bell tower for spectacular views of the city.

There is also a fish market nearby which makes for great people-watching. Close by, the Split Promenade area is also fantastic for strolling and a drink!

Outside of Split, there are a number of interesting towns that can be visited as half or full-day trips. Trogir and Omis both make for excellent half-day trips, as do a number of nearby beaches.

If you want to venture a bit further, Krka National Park and the town of Sibenik make for a fantastic day out from Split.

From Emily of Wander-Lush

Sitting at the southernmost tip of the Istrian Peninsula, the city of Pula is one of Croatia’s loveliest Adriatic destinations.

Pula has a different feel to the more-popular Dalmatian Coast, but a similar history that includes chapters under Roman, Ostrogoth, and of course Venetian rule.

The city is best-known for the Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters anywhere on earth. Constructed from limestone between 27BC and 68AD, it stands an impressive 98 feet tall on a hill in the center of the city. There is a small museum inside the complex – but it’s equally nice just to walk around the perimeter of the ruins and admire the archways.

There are a number of other important ruins scattered around Pula, especially near the seafront, below the castle. The Temple of Augustus, Arch of Sergeii, and Roman floor mosaics are all worth seeing. Other things to do in Pula include visiting the Istrian Olive Oil Museum, climbing up to the Fortress Kastel, and eating fresh seafood at a restaurant overlooking the main plaza.

Pula is a summertime destination that is very quiet in the offseason. For a day trip, you can easily travel from Rovinj to Pula  by bus or car – the two cities are less than an hour’s drive apart.

From Lori of Travlin Mad

If you like your Croatia island-hopping with a side of Old World Venice, then you should add the Venetian city of Rovinj to your Croatia itinerary. This coastal town on the Istrian peninsula was long a part of the Venetian empire and has a lovely Italian flair.

Old Town Rovinj is meant for strolling and hanging out in cafes, enjoying a Spritz or espresso, or long lunches of pasta or fresh seafood. The plethora of restaurants offers Istrian specialties prepared in a variety of ways, from casual fare to fine dining restaurants on the water. Don’t miss La Puntalina for some of the region’s best foodie experiences in one of the prettiest locations in the city.

When you leave the cafe, browse the local shops for  Croatia souvenirs , taste locally produced wines and olive oils, and visit the daily street markets.

Be sure and visit the 16th century Church of St. Euphemia that towers over the historic town or take a boat tour to the small surrounding islands to visit hidden coves and secret beaches. The several waterfront areas in Rovinj are perfect for strolling or bike rides. And when you’re ready to explore outside the city, take a day trip into the surrounding towns, some of the most historic towns in Croatia.

From Josefine and Dominik of Red White Adventures

Are you interested in swimming in some of the bluest water in the world while watching incredible sunsets every evening? Well, that’s Trpanj for you!

This quiet little town is set on an island between Dubrovnik and Split. With historic landmarks and cute little local restaurants, Trpanj is a fantastic getaway if you’re looking for something a bit quieter and peaceful that will just blow you away with its nature and history.

You can enjoy walking around the island and hiking up to the peaks of the mountains if you’re looking for some exceptional views. Trpanj may be the best place to watch the sunset in Dubrovnik–or at least tied with Mt. Srd in Dubrovnik . So be prepared for some magical evenings!

Regarding how to get to and from Trpanj, there is a ferry that runs daily from Ploce and back so it’s very easy to get back to the mainland. Ploce is also a regular bus stop, for all the busses going up and down the coast. So you don’t have to worry about getting to and from Trpanj and getting stuck without any transportation.

From Disha of Disha Discovers

Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe and there are so many incredible destinations to visit. One bucket-list-worthy  city in Croatia is Zagreb. Zagreb is Croatia’s capital and a city that everyone should truly visit at least once.

Tourists tend to overlook Zagreb because it doesn’t have idyllic views of the Adriatic Sea and they think it’s just another big city. However, this city is filled with charm and so many fun things to do. This underrated city has something in store for every traveler.

There are countless reasons to visit Zagreb. It’s easy to navigate with a compact city center. It’s small enough to explore everything on foot, yet it feels grand. You’ll fall in love with the Austro-Hungarian cityscape. The coffee culture here is also serious. You can find a cafe that serves a delicious cup of coffee pretty much anywhere in the city. The food scene is equally incredible with delicious local food and other international foods. Finally, the locals are warm and welcoming and will make you feel right at home.

Some of the best things to do in Zagreb are to visit the Zagreb Cathedral, explore King Tomislav Square, go window shopping along Ilica Street, wander the streets of Old Town Zagreb, try the local craft beer, discover history at Zagreb Mirogoj Cemetery, and so much more.

This tiny village in Slunj is known for exactly one thing: the cascading waterfalls that run literally through the town! Formed by the Slunjčica River, there are 23 waterfalls in all.

And, while the strength of the waterfalls depends on recent rainfall, the village is stunning year-round.

Beautiful and picturesque, Rastoke makes an excellent stop when driving from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Lined with traditional wooden homes, photographers flock to Rastoke for its unique beauty, but it gets a small fraction of the tourists that its neighbor Plitvice Lakes National Park does, making it a delightful, quiet place to stop for a coffee and a great view along the way.

From Dzangir of Dr. Jam Travels

Grožnjan is a small town in inland Istria on the hill surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, within half an hour from Buzet, Novigrad, or Umag. This medieval settlement has a long history, from a Roman time over Venetia and Austria to today’s modern Croatia.

The place is known as a town of artists. In the ’60s artists started squatting at that time empty houses. Today just around 150 people live there with 20 galleries and many festivals. The best time to visit is from May to September when they organize an annual painting festival, the Ex Tempore.

Grožnjan also has an annual jazz festival “Jazz is Back-BP”, held for two or three weeks, in the second half of July. When you have had enough of the coast you should take a short break to this hill. The most remarkable building inside the walls is the Church of St. Vid, Modest, and Krešencije with a 36-meter high bell tower.

Here you can walk around cobbled and narrow streets, visit one of the galleries, enjoy some music or have a drink and fritule. The best photo option is from Parenzana (ex railroad), there is a beautiful view of this town on a hill.

From Diana of Travels in Poland

A beautiful coastal town in the northern part of Croatia, Zadar is a not-to-be-missed city.  With fewer crowds than some of Croatia’s more popular destinations such as Split and Dubrovnik, Zadar is a gem that showcases Croatia’s beauty but also provides a small-town feel without the bustle of too many tourists.

There are so many fantastic things to see in Zadar that are not seen anywhere else in Europe. 

The sea organ is the perfect example.  Carved into the stone of the coastline are hollowed-out chambers.  When the sea laps into them, they create a vibration that sounds like a beautiful organ.  This can be heard when you are right next to the organ.  The natural sounds are peaceful and you can sit atop the stone to listen to the music.

Close by to the organ is the Sun Salutation installation.  Made up of glass plates, the light show that occurs at night is the result of the sun rays being absorbed by the glass.  The popular tourist attraction is quite beautiful and the light show is a true marvel in the evening.

Zadar has quite a few Roman ruins throughout the center of the city, with old tombs and ruins from churches scattered in one location.  Zadar’s downtown area is easily walkable and there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from.  The city also has a variety of boat rentals that can take visitors to the nearby islands for day trips.

From Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

Located on the Drava River in northern Croatia, the beautiful baroque town of Varazdin is one of the easiest and best  day trips from Zagreb  you can do. The striking architecture and history of Varazdin is dramatically different from the beach towns of coastal Croatia and is a facet of the country you must not miss!

Start with a tour of Stari Grad, the beautiful white castle at the edge of the town. The castle now houses the Varazdin City Museum, but wandering around the old castle is fun in itself.

Next, wander the streets of the town, taking in the beautiful architecture on every street. In particular, don’t miss the stunning 17th-century Sermage Palace, a rococo dream. Today it houses an art museum, with international and Croatian masters on display.

The main square houses several beautiful buildings as well, including the Town Hall. The square is a great place to relax with a drink or an ice cream and people watch. Varazdin also has some beautiful churches to view, and its cemetery, a short walk outside the town is a beautiful serene place with lots of statuary.

To get to Varazdin from Zagreb, you can of course drive if you have a car. Otherwise, the bus is an easy way to get to the town from the main bus station in Zagreb and back. Service is frequent, and you can buy a return ticket on the day of your visit.

From Coni of Experiencing the Globe

Croatia’s capital of adventure, Omiš, is full of amazing things to see and do, both for the thrill-seekers and for those looking for a chilled time. Only 20 km southeast of Split, nested in the canyons of the Cetina river, the city rewards its visitors with magnificent views from every angle.

The Old Town is a typical terracotta-roofed Dalmatian settlement, with a strong influence from Venetian architecture. It’s crowned by the fortress of Mirabella, a 13th-century tower used by pirates to watch over the Channel of Brač for passing merchants.

For the more athletic ones, there’s another fortress, Fortica, on the top of the hill overlooking Omiš, that provides stunning vistas of Brač, Hvar, and Šolta islands, the river canyon, and the mountains that surround the area.

While beachgoers will have a great time in the sun-blessed seaside of Omiš, the surroundings of the city are an open invitation for adrenaline chasers. You can fill your days with rafting, ziplining, hiking, snorkeling, canyoning, windsurfing, and rock climbing.

There are many  Croatia travel tips  to take into account while planning your visit, but for Omiš don’t forget water and hiking shoes to be fully prepared for your adventure.

From Lyndsay of The Purposely Lost

If you’re interested in finding the best places to visit in Croatia, you need to check out Šibenik. Before being occupied at various times by the Venetians, the Byzantines, and the Hungarians, Šibenik was initially created by the Croats and even operated as the home of the Croatian king at one time. Located in Split-Dalmatia County, there are so many things to do in Šibenik that you need to check out.

Much of the ancient Old Town was built of stone, such as the Cathedral, St. James’s Church, which has now been transformed back into its Middle Ages glory, and many other buildings throughout the Old Town. Since Šibenik sits right on the coast, go for a stroll along the Riva or explore one of the city’s three former fortresses.

There are many ferry options accessible from the Riva, which will take you to several different locations, like any of the stunning islands just off the mainland’s coasts.

Šibenik is also a great home-base due to its accessibility to several of Croatia’s national parks. It would be best to make the city your home base and schedule any day tours to places like Krka National Park and Plitvice Lakes National Park from here.

From Kamila of My Wanderlust

Vukovar  isn’t a very popular place to visit in Croatia but it surely is among the most important ones in the country’s history.

The town of around 27 thousand inhabitants is located in the eastern part of the country near Osijek, right on the border with Serbia.

The whole world learned about the place in 1991 when the dramatic battle of Vukovar, the first episode of the cruel Yugoslav Wars, took place here. The city was under siege for 87 days and eventually, it was captured by the Yugoslav Army in November 1991. 99% of the city was destroyed, thousands of people lost their lives and today Vukovar has the title of Croatian heroic-city.

The worst events took place in the local hospital where you can now see the memorial space telling the story of the 1991 tragedy and showing how the institution used to work at that time. The symbol of the town, the destroyed water tower, was left intact after the war to remind about the resistance of Vukovar.

Most of the buildings are now renovated and Vukovar is a really pleasant place to visit with the lovely center, the Baroque Eltz Manor from the 18th century that hosts the city museum (you can see the palace on the 20 kuna banknote) and the Franciscan monastery with St Philip and Jacob Church (the third-largest church in Croatia).

The Danube river that flows through the city offers plenty of activities too, especially in the summertime. Even if Vukovar isn’t the most obvious choice for travelers it’s still worth visiting the place to learn about Croatia’s recent history and to enjoy this fine town.

As one of the most popular places to visit in Croatia–not to mention the home of one of the most iconic views in the country–it’s no surprise that Hvar can struggle with crowds during the popular summer months. Look away from the party scene, though, and you’ll still find plenty of reasons to visit this gorgeous island.

Hvar Town, where you’ll find St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Spanish Fortress (which is home to the impressive view in the below photo), a charming Venetian loggia and clocktower, and a quiet Franciscan Monastery, is the center of tourism on the island. From here, you can jump off to the Pakleni Islands, the blue and green caves, or any manner of other day trips.

Other corners of Hvar, like Jelsa, are quieter, but also well worth a visit if you’re looking to kick back and relax.

Hvar is known for its lavender fields, and while they take a bit of effort to find, if you happen to be visiting during the summer, it’s worth tracking them down!

Kornati Islands

From Ilse of Digital Travel Couple

A trip to Croatia wouldn’t be complete without visiting one of its islands, and Brac is the perfect one to have on top of your list of places to see in Croatia!

Brac is famous for its stonemasonry, olives, and wine, and during any visit; it’s easy to check out all of these must-dos. The main town, Bol, is pretty and also worth a visit with a pretty waterfront area. It’s also home to Stina Winery so there is no reason not to try the local drop. Muzej uja or the Olive Oil Museum is also a place to visit to learn more about their traditional methods of producing olive oil and to have a tasting.

Being an island, there are also many beaches and its prime attraction is Zlatni Rat, often listed as one of Europe’s best beaches. This title is deserved – it’s located on a spit of land that stretches into the Hvar Channel with beaches on both sides and a pine grove. It’s very pretty.

This gorgeous island is close to Split and easily accessible by ferry. There is a great view on the way in of this mountainous island which also means lots of views while exploring.

One of the loveliest places to visit in Croatia is Kolocep, one of the six Elaphiti Islands near Dubrovnik. A 40-minute ferry crossing from Gruz Harbour will take you to the small bay on Kolocep where you can start to discover the island’s charm.

 Kolocep is not particularly geared up for tourism as it only has a couple of tavernas, a general store, three restaurants, a few Airbnbs , and one chain hotel. But it is when you head away from the pebble beach and harbor and start exploring Kolocep’s hiking trails which criss-cross the island through its pine forest, that you understand why it is such a magical place.

 Discover Romanesque churches, a quirky lighthouse, traditional fishing villages, and lots of cats – something quite noticeable in Croatia. And when you want to cool off the azure waters around the island invite you in for a swim. The Blue Cave is on one of the hiking trails and can be entered once you are in the water. Secluded rocks offer private sunbathing spots close to the cave.

 A trip to Kolocep can be combined with a visit to another of the other main Elaphiti Islands, Lopud, and Sipan, however, if Kolocep is last on your list make sure to watch the sun go down over the island with a crisp glass of Croatian wine from the local taverna by the ferry port – a perfect end to the day.

Croatia’s Blue & Green Caves

The green and blue caves are one of the most intriguing places for a visitor in Croatia .

While the beaches are gorgeous and the islands beautiful, these caves are far off and offer a different sort of intrigue than partying in Hvar or roaming around in Dubrovnik.

The best way to explore these caves is with a day tour from Hvar which takes you to the green cave first, then to the blue cave as well as some beautiful beaches for lunch. It can only be done as a day tour from Split but it offers much less time as a day trip.

The Green Cave is usually the first one that you’ll. It is an open cave and you will stop inside the cave. The name comes from the color of clean, clear water that appears green and you can see all the way to the bottom of the surface some 16-26 meters deep. A swim here is perfect and if you’re not into swimming, ask for a life vest.

The blue cave is the opposite of the green cave, you will be brought to a beautiful island of Biševo from where you will buy a ticket and wait for your turn to head to the cave. It is a beautiful island and you can relax on the beach which is no less beautiful than any other.

The boats that take you to the blue cave are smaller because of the low entry to the cave and the stay inside isn’t long but it is enough to let your mind boggle about the beauty of the crystal clear blue water which is very still and blue. Dip a hand and it feels like a scene from a fictional movie.

The caves are an intriguing addition to the usual beach itineraries for Croatia and Hvar and a real marvel of nature that is worth exploring when deciding where to go in Croatia.

From Baia of Red Fedora Diary

Often called mini-Dubrovnik, Korcula town is one of the most beautiful places in Croatia to visit in the Dalmatia region.

Encircled with ancient walls, Korcula town is the main city to explore on Korcula Island. Considered as the birthplace of Marco Polo, the town offers various attractions related to world-famous explorer.

The town is relatively small, so there are not that many things to do here. Still, your  Korcula itinerary should include visiting Marco Polo’s house and museum to learn more about him and his adventures, wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets, sunbathing on the coast with gorgeous views of the fortified town, touring the magnificent cathedral, and overlooking the town and the shore from its bell tower, indulging in Croatian cuisine and trying local wine called Grk, to name a few.

Getting to Korcula town is relatively easy from any main town of Croatia. Daily ferries are running from Dubrovnik, Split, and nearby islands such as Hvar and Brac. During the high season, these ferries may even right twice daily. However, during the shoulder or low season, it’s advised to check the schedule.

Mljet National Park

From Roxanne of Faraway Worlds

Covered in a forest, with crystal waters and a stunning, if rugged coastline, Mljet National Park is undoubtedly one of the highlights of coastal Croatia . The national park is on the west of the island and covers over 5400 hectares of land and sea, with a range of walking and cycling tracks, two saltwater lakes, and ancient ruins.

The two saltwater lakes are some of the most photogenic in the world. Veliko and Malo Jezero (Large and Small Lake) stretch for almost 4km with a small island in the middle of the large lake.

The island, Sveta Marija, is home to a former Benedict monastery (now a café) which dates from the 12 th  century.  Visiting the island is easy – small boats regularly leave from various points around the lake. Alternately, you can rent a kayak and paddle there in around 40 minutes.

The national park is car-free, so you can rent a bicycle or walk along the shady tracks. To get the best views, walk up the hills, and admire the stunning scenery from above. This is also a great place for swimming and sunbathing.

The water is clear, it’s easy to find an uncrowded spot to swim and the small lake’s water is often warmer than the sea. Just take along beach shoes (especially for children) as the shores can be rocky.

From Nichola of Global Mouse

Krk Island is a wonderful getaway from mainland Croatia with really easy access either from its seasonal airport or to drive over the huge toll bridge that connects it. Once on Croatia’s largest island, there is plenty to do here from visiting the beautiful 5th century Krk Cathedral to the aquarium.

There are some fantastic beaches here, from Vela plaža to the sandy beach at Sveti Marek. Don’t miss Oprna, often considered the most beautiful on the island.

Krk is a great island to explore by boat and the water here really is beautiful and crystal clear. There are a scattering of towns across Krk and the main town, Krk Town is so picturesque for a walkthrough with cobbled streets and flower-covered alleyways. There’s a number of restaurants and shops making it an ideal day trip even if you’re not staying overnight.

Some of the best family resorts in Croatia can be found around Krk giving you the perfect place to make a weekend or longer of a trip to the island.

From Claire of Stoked to Travel

The private island escape of Obonjan is located just a short ferry ride from the town of Šibenik, which is around 2 hours north of Split.

There aren’t many places in the world where you can arrange an affordable stay on a private island, but Obonjan is one of those. It’s a boutique glamping destination , with a wonderful spa, wellness offerings, and occasional weekends where a touring DJ or music act stops by.

The island is open for the long European summer, with guests welcome to arrive as they wish and to stay for any length of time. There’s an array of activities every day, from yoga, stargazing, cookery classes, and guests can get as involved as they like. Or do nothing but relax by the pool or the beach, if they fancy.

The island itself is traffic-free, but there are forest trails crisscrossing the interior which is perfect for walking or running. Interestingly, the island was once a Boy Scouts camp in the 1970s, so the old Olympic size pool has been modernized and transformed with day beds and a DJ booth. There’s still an outdoor gym, which has also been updated and you can round up some friends for a football game on the original pitch too.

In terms of accommodation, there are a few options. There’s the least expensive bell tent option, sharing communal bathroom facilities, then there’s the Forest Lodge which is a far more luxurious tent, with an en-suite and air conditioning. Then there are the newer Sun Lodges which are wooden cabins. There are several camp areas throughout the island, all surrounded by dense forest and near the water. Try and ask for one facing the setting sun, it’s magical to kick back with a drink outside of your tent to watch the sun go down there.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

With its series of 16 sparkling, turquoise lakes, all knitted together by a series of tumbling waterfalls, Plitvice Lakes National Park is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Croatia (and in Europe overall!).

Come ready to hike over and around the beautiful lakes, to stare in awe of the cascading falls, to take a boat ride across the biggest lake, and to admire this stunning corner of the country from all angles.

Each season at Plitvice Lakes National Park offers something special: while summer is the most popular, the fall foliage and winter snow also offer compelling beauty of their own.

While Plitvice Lakes National Park isn’t the easiest of these best places to visit in Croatia to access–it’s best done by car, and is a few hours worth of driving from the popular coast–it is absolutely worth the effort it takes to add it to your list of where to go in Croatia.

Krka National Park

Recommended by Cosette from KarsTravels.

Krka National Park  should be on any Croatia itinerary, it’s so beautiful with its travertine waterfalls. Krka National Park is in between Zadar and Split, in the region Dalmatia.

Visit for the 7 waterfalls, the archeological site of Burnum, Visovac island with a church, an abbey, and a museum. Burnum is an old Roman camp. The most popular and largest waterfall of the 7 is Skradinski Buk.

Skradinski Buk is the largest travertine waterfall system in Europe. Waterfalls drop down in a beautiful pond, which visitors used to be able to swim in (this practice ended in order to conserve the landscape). The waterfall has 17 traps with a height difference of 47 meters. The part at the pond is 100 meters in width and 400 meters in length.

Skradinski Buk is reachable on a circular 1-hour path. It’s the most popular hike in the park and offers stunning views of the waterfall from all sides. This is however not the only trail, there are 22 trails in total. Cycling is also an option in the park with 470 kilometers in bike routes throughout the park.

Finally, go on a boat excursion, there are 3 different ones with a guide.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Croatia”

Beautiful Croatia. So many lovely places to explore there, I can’t wait to return!

Neither can we!

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​​13 Best Places To Visit In Croatia With Kids This Summer

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Croatia is a gem of a destination that not only boasts stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and mouth-watering cuisine, but also offers an array of amazing activities and places to keep kids entertained. In fact, this charming European country is packed with endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation! Your kids will love playing in the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea while you soak up the Mediterranean sun. Stroll through historic cities like Dubrovnik or Split and explore their ancient architecture and culture. Or, venture into nature by hiking through Plitvice Lakes National Park or Krka National Park to witness some of Europe’s most epic waterfalls. Either way, this list of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer includes major cities and some smaller day trips, as well as where to stay and more tips. Keep reading to plan your next adventure!

Why Visit Croatia with Kids?

With breathtaking beaches, lush forests, rich history, and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone – especially the little ones.

Reasons to visit Croatia with kids this summer! 

• Croatia is a reasonably priced country regarding accommodations, food, and travel. While prices have increased as the country has grown in popularity, Croatia remains relatively affordable. Also, by avoiding peak season travel (July and August), you can get even better rates on accommodations and travel.
• Croatia is generally very safe. Even when walking late at night, most families feel completely at ease. Unlike many European countries, pick-pocketing is relatively uncommon in Croatia. 
• Most people, from hotel and restaurant staff to taxi and Uber drivers, speak English. This is a relief for families who usually encounter language barriers in other European countries, like France and Italy! 
• Croatian cuisine is delicious and will impress even the pickiest of eaters! Since there’s a strong Italian influence, you will find different varieties of pizza and pasta dishes on almost every menu. Plus, lots of truffles, which are native to the Istria region. There are also plenty of stews, including pasticada – stewed beef prepared with gnocchi. And, any seafood cooked buzara style. Croatia also offers various local and imported wines.
• Not only is Croatia a very family-friendly destination, but it also has incredible nightlife for parents and adults. Restaurants close late, and bars and clubs are open most of the night. Many Croatian towns also host popular summer music festivals. Live music, street performances, night markets, well-lit forts and castles, and cobblestone streets make each town an enchanting place at night.

To help families plan their itinerary, for each large city we’ve included, we also listed smaller towns nearby to explore on day trips or overnight stays . So, pack your bags and get ready for an epic trip to some of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer!

Dubrovnik , also known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning city located on Croatia’s southern coast. Old Town is surrounded by ancient walls and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate both you and your little ones. Keep in mind if you’re visiting with little kids: Dubrovnik isn’t stroller or luggage-friendly. You’ll need a baby carrier to explore some parts of the city. 

One of the highlights for families visiting Dubrovnik is walking along its famous walls. Start by exploring its Old Town, where you’ll find endless hidden treasures like Onofrio’s Fountain or the Rector’s Palace. Little kids can visit the small Dubrovnik Aquarium nearby or check out the Dubrovnik Natural History Museum. Then, walk along the iconic Stradun Street for shopping and delicious ice cream treats.

Unique Things to Do in Dubrovnik with Kids

If you’re looking to explore more of the stunning Dalmatian coast and its surrounding islands, a Croatia boat cruise from  Sail Croatia  is an excellent choice. Embarking on a cruise allows you to discover the beauty of this region at your own pace while enjoying the comfort and luxury of a well-equipped boat. From Dubrovnik, your cruise journey can take you to Spanjola Fortress in Hvar, the World Heritage Site in Stari Grad, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and many other major sights around the city.

Families can also head out on a cable car ride for stunning panoramic views of both Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island. Speaking of which – don’t miss taking a ferry over there! Your children will love visiting the peacocks, bunnies, and even swimming in the Dead Sea pool! There are countless other locations worth exploring, such as Buza Beach , which has a fantastic view from cliff-side seating areas. 

Looking for more things to do in Dubrovnik with kids ? For Game Of Thrones fans, don’t miss walking through the places that inspired King’s Landing ! Many scenes were shot here, so it feels like stepping into your favorite TV show! Teens can also go zip lining, take a boat tour, or even take a day trip to Montenegro or Mostar. 

GetYourGuide also offers a Dubrovnik: The Ultimate Game of Thrones Tour and a ​​ Kravica Waterfalls, Mostar, and Pocitelj Day Trip ! 

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik with Kids

If you need somewhere to stay in Dubrovnik with kids, you can consider staying in the Old Town at hotels like the Pucic Palace . It boasts interconnecting family rooms, suites with balconies, and even bigger apartments with kitchens. Or, you could rent an apartment on Vrbo . Lapad Bay Beach, home to Hotel Lapad Dubrovnik , is another great place to stay if you want to be near the waterfront. Other great hotels include Hotel Kompas Dubrovnik , Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik , and Hotel Dubrovnik Palace . Families can also choose to stay in neighborhoods like Srebreno , Gruz , or Babin Kuk . 

Day or Weekend Trips from Dubrovnik for Families

Are you looking for the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer? Look no further than one of these trips from Dubrovnik! 

Less than 3 hours from Dubrovnik by ferry

Korčula , one of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer, is a stunning island located off the Dalmatian Coast that offers endless adventures and fun-filled activities for the whole family. This charming place is known for its rich history and culture, stunning beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Plus, if you’re staying in Dubrovnik, you can take a ferry from the Gruz Port to Korčula in less than three hours. 

Korčula’s Old Town dates back to medieval times and invites families to explore its winding streets and learn about local legends surrounding famous historical figures like Marco Polo , who was born here! The town of Korčula itself is a sight to behold, with its picturesque streets filled with shops selling local crafts and delicacies. Explore the ancient walls, visit museums showcasing traditional Croatian life like the Korčula Town Museum , or check out landmarks like St Mark’s Cathedral and Revelin Tower.

Kids will also love exploring the island’s many beaches, including Lumbarda Beach , Vela Przina Beach , and Pupnatska Luka Beach. For teens seeking a thrill, there are also plenty of windsurfing schools on the island offering lessons for kids and adults. Families can also take a boat trip, go kayaking, or hike through the island’s scenic coastline. 

Of course, no visit to Korčula would be complete without experiencing some of its delicious cuisines! Be sure to try fresh seafood dishes like grilled octopus or black risotto made with squid ink – both specialties unique to this region.

Where to Stay on Korčula with Kids

Aminess Port 9 Hotel is a paradise for families looking for luxury and comfort at affordable prices. It boasts spacious rooms, numerous pools, water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, and a fun-filled Kids’ Club. Hotel Korčula De La Ville offers stunning sea views and easy access to the historic town center. Families also love Hotel Korsal , Hotel Marko Polo , and Hotel Liburna .

If you’re looking for the perfect family vacation destination, look no further than Croatia. And if you want to experience the best of what this beautiful country offers, Split is an absolute must-visit location! This vibrant city is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. Due to its coastal location and abundance of ferry services, Split is also a fantastic home base for families who want to visit nearby destinations such as Bol, Blac, Omiš, Hvar, Makarska, Trogir, etc. 

Take your kids on a stroll through Diocletian’s Palace , where they can see ancient architecture up close and personal. In the surrounding Old Town , you’ll find charming alleys lined with restaurants serving traditional Croatian cuisine. Kids will also love seeing the boats go by in the Split Marina. Or better yet, head over to Bacvice Beach for some fun in the sun and crystal-clear waters, just a few minutes away from the Old Town. It’s not as scenic as other beaches in Split, though. So, if you’re willing to venture a bit further, you can also check out ​​ Kašjuni Beach.

A visit to Marjan Park should also be on your list when visiting Split. This park offers stunning panoramic views and has activities like hiking or cycling for those looking to stay active. History buffs will also love a visit to the Split Archaeological Museum.  

Teens will love the abundance of hiking and biking trails in the surrounding Split-Trogir area. And, Game Of Thrones fans can’t miss a visit to Fortress Klis just outside of Split! 

Where to Stay in Split with Kids

Need somewhere to stay in Split with kids? Check out The Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Split , a luxurious resort offering everything from an outdoor and private beach to a top-notch spa. Or, stay at Hotel Luxe Split , which overlooks the port and is less than 10 minutes from the beach. And last but certainly not least is Cornaro Hotel Split , centrally located in Old Town close to all major attractions yet still offering peace and quiet. 

Day or Weekend Trips from Split for Families

As a stunning coastal city, Split makes for an ideal home base when it comes to discovering many fun cities in Croatia with kids. From here, families can easily embark on day or weekend trips throughout the country’s beautiful islands and quaint towns. Island hopping is a must-do activity from Split, and destinations such as Hvar , Brac , and Vis are all just a short ferry ride away, for example. Keep reading to find out more! 

About 25 minutes from Split by taxi

Trogir is a stunningly picturesque town on the Dalmatian coast that truly encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean charm. It’s perfect for families looking to combine relaxation with cultural immersion in one package without having to travel too far between attractions. Plus, with a prime location less than 30 minutes outside of Split (you can drive or take an Uber/taxi), it’s ideal for a day or weekend trip! 

With its narrow streets, old stone houses, and charming squares, Trogir offers visitors a glimpse into Croatia’s rich history and culture. Take your kids for a walk around the Old Town to discover hidden nooks and crannies, including some stunning architecture. Keep an eye out for the famous Cathedral of St. Lawrence and Kamerlengo Castle , which dates back to the 15th century. Families can also hop on one of the many boat tours departing from Trogir’s port. Or, to soak up the sun, you’ll find several kid-friendly beaches nearby, like Okrug Beach or Medena Beach, located near Hotel Medena .

For those seeking adventure, there are numerous outdoor activities available in the surrounding area, such as kayaking, cycling, or even paragliding. At night, enjoy dinner at one of Trogir’s many seafood restaurants, where you can taste some of Croatia’s freshest seafood dishes paired with local wines. 

Plus, for parents, the vibrant nightlife scene includes bars playing live music until the late hours, so adults can have a good time while their kids sleep soundly after an eventful day out. With so much to do in Trogir, it is easy to see why it’s one of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer!

Looking to island hop? GetYourGuide offers a tour From Split & Trogir: 5 Islands Day Trip with Blue Cave !

About 1 hour from Split by car

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer, then Makarska should definitely be on your list! Around an hour from Split , this stunning coastal town is nestled between towering mountains and crystal-clear waters, making it a breathtaking destination for families. 

One of the main attractions in Makarska is its long stretch of beaches, which are perfect for a day spent soaking up the sun or playing in the water. We suggest Buba Beach or Punta Rata Beach , where families can also try their hand at various water sports such as snorkeling, parasailing, and jet skiing. Or, take a boat trip to explore other nearby beaches.

Another must-see attraction in Makarska is Biokovo Nature Park . Here, families can enjoy hiking through scenic trails while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and sea from the park’s Skywalk . For those interested in history, there’s also the Malacological Museum Makarska , a museum housed in a Franciscan monastery that showcases thousands of different shells! You can also take a stroll around Old Town to admire traditional architecture and explore local shops selling handmade crafts.

When it comes to dining options in one of the best cities in Croatia with kids, Makarska has something for everyone ranging from fresh seafood served at beachside restaurants to local delicacies found at small taverns dotted throughout the town.

Where to Stay in Makarska with Kids

Families looking for somewhere to stay in Makarska have some options to choose from. Hotel Osejava boasts stunning sea views and an outdoor pool perfect for entertaining the little ones. Or, check out Hotel Park Makarska , situated right by the beach and complete with a myriad of family-friendly amenities like an outdoor pool. Finally, Valamar Meteor Hotel is another wonderful option for families. 

With its medieval architecture and stunning coastline, Šibenik is a picturesque town offering a treasure trove of adventure and fun for the whole family. It’s also around an hour and a half from Split, making it ideal for a quick day or weekend trip! No wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer!

Take your little ones on a journey back in time as you explore the ancient walls of St. Michael’s Fortress or marvel at the beauty of Saint James Cathedral , both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The city’s charming old town, lined with narrow streets and historic buildings, beckons families to explore its nooks and crannies. For a family-friendly activity, head to the Aquarium Terrarium Šibenik , which showcases various marine creatures, such as sea turtles and sharks, as well as reptiles like snakes and iguanas.

Families can also visit the Solaris Beach Resort to play in the sand or cool down at Aquapark Solaris . Then, check out the Šibenik marina to watch yachts enter the port! For some outdoor fun, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade or visit Krka National Park , located just outside of the city. 

Where to Stay in Šibenik with Kids

Lucky for families, there are three excellent resorts that will make your stay in Šibenik unforgettable! The first one is D-Resort Šibenik , located right by the marina. Your little ones will love spending their days splashing around in the hotel’s outdoor pool! Another great option is Amadria Park Hotel Andrija , which features a water park complete with slides and lazy rivers. Or, head over to Solaris Beach Resort , where your kids can enjoy various activities, such as an aqua park. 

Approximately 1 hr and 20 minutes from Split via ferry or boat

When we think about the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer, one destination that should definitely make it onto your list is Hvar . This stunning island off the Dalmatian coast boasts crystal-clear waters, secluded coves and beaches, and plenty of fun activities for the whole family. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, especially during the summer months. However, it has a reputation as being a bit of a “party island” – so it may not be suitable for young kids.

For some fun in the sun, many of the island’s best beaches are family-friendly, including Mina and Grebisce in Jelsa, Soline in Vrboska, and Zavala , Dubovica, or Ivan Dolac on the southern shore. Little ones can splash around in shallow waters while you enjoy a refreshing drink. Or, they can try water sports such as paddle boarding, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Be sure to also check out the Hvar Old Town , home to beautifully preserved buildings like the Hvar Cathedral. Another must-visit spot is the Fortica Fortress, where you can enjoy spectacular views and learn more about Croatia. Teens will surely be impressed by all the luxury yachts coming in and out of the Hvar harbor! You can even take a boat tour around the harbor or get a good view while dining at a seafood restaurant like Gariful .

Families can also learn more about Croatian history by strolling through the picturesque Stari Grad Plain , the oldest town on the island. 

Looking for a fun day trip from Split? GetYourGuide offers this From Split: Blue Cave & Five Islands With Hvar Boat Tour !

Where to Stay in Hvar with Kids

Searching for the perfect place to stay with your little ones in Hvar? As one of the best cities in Croatia with kids, there are plenty of options! Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort is perfect for families who love spending time on the beach, which is steps away. Kids will also love their sparkling pool and dedicated play area. If you’re looking for a more historical option, check out Hotel Park Hvar – located in a 16th-century building right in the heart of town, overlooking the harbor. Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel also overlooks the harbor in the Old Town, featuring an indoor pool and spa for parents. 

About 30 minutes from Split by car

Nestled between the emerald waters of the Adriatic Sea and the impressive Mosor mountain range, Omis is a perfect destination for adventure-seeking families! From canoeing down the Cetina River to zip-lining through lush green forests, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque town. 

The Cetina River has various rapids with different difficulty levels, suitable for young kids and teens. A few companies to choose from include Rafting Pirate , Raftrek Adventure Travel , and Adventure Omis . Another main attraction in Omis is its beautiful sandy beaches, including the city’s biggest beach, Velika Plaza Beach, which is perfect for children to play and swim in the clear waters. The beach also has several water sports, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, and jet skiing.

For those who love adventure and nature, there are hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views from the top of the surrounding mountains. Families can also try zip-lining across Cetina Canyon or take a boat ride upriver to explore hidden swimming spots. Plus, Vranjača Cave is located about 30 minutes by car from Omis. 

In addition to outdoor activities, the Starigrad Fortress near Omis has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and offers an impressive view of the city and sea. In the summer, the city also hosts many family-friendly events, including concerts, street festivals, and traditional Dalmatian performances.

Where to Stay in Omis with Kids

Need help choosing where to stay in this charming coastal town? You have several great options! For families who want luxury and comfort, Damianii Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa offers spacious rooms with breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. The hotel also has a beautiful pool area perfect for kids to splash around. Another great option is Hotel Villa Dvor – an elegant boutique hotel that’s located right in the heart of Omis Old Town. Lastly, many Vrbo rentals are available directly on the beach so that you can wake up to stunning sea views every morning! 

Just over 1 hour from Split by ferry

Summer is here, and it’s time for families to explore the best places to visit in Croatia with kids! One destination that should definitely be on your list is Brač. Accessible via a one-hour ferry ride from Split, this picturesque island has something for everyone in the family, from trying local wines at Stina Winery in the town of Bol to taking a boat tour around nearby islands. 

Bol , a laidback resort town on the southern coast, is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Brač . Here, you’ll find the famous Zlatni Rat , a unique beach shaped like a golden horn that juts out into the Adriatic Sea. Kids will love building sandcastles, splashing around in the calm shallow waters, and trying out water sports. The beach’s unique shape changes with the tide and wind direction, creating a perfect spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Families can also explore other nearby beaches on the island, such as Murvica Beach right outside of Bol. Or, visit Acapulco Beach, a pebble beach adjacent to the Old Town in the town of Supetar . And when you need a break from all that sun, head inland to visit Vidova Gora – the highest peak on Brac Island – for spectacular views of surrounding islands and towns. 

Other activities worth exploring include visiting ancient sites such as the 16th-century Dominican Monastery , which has an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts dating back to medieval times. 

Get ready to embark on a sensational family vacation this summer as we take you on an adventure to one of the best places to visit in Croatia with kids – Zadar ! With its stunning coastline, ancient ruins, and vibrant culture, this charming city is a mesmerizing melting pot of history and modernity. It’s also a fantastic home base for visiting other destinations in Croatia, like Plitvice National Park , Paklenica National Park , and Kornati Islands National Park , which are just a short drive away. 

One of the must-see attractions in Zadar is the Sea Organ, which features a series of pipes that make music when waves pass through. Another interesting sight to see in Zadar is the Greeting to the Sun installation, which consists of over 300 glass plates that light up at night and create an impressive sight. And, history lovers can’t miss the ancient Roman Forum, which dates back to the 1st century AD.

Families can also visit one of Zadar’s beaches, like Kolovare Beach or Borik Beach , where they can swim or sunbathe while enjoying stunning views. Or, stroll along the Riva Promenade , featuring restaurants, cafes, and souvenir shops, plus a playground. Families can also go river rafting on the nearby Zrmanja, visit the Archaeological Museum Zadar , or climb the Zadar Bell Tower.  Finally, there are also numerous hiking and biking trails in the area, including the 4.6-mile Ugljan South Coastal Trail . 

GetYourGuide offers a fun Zadar: Kornati and Telašćica National Parks Boat Trip ! 

Where to Stay in Zadar with Kids

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Zadar, we have some fantastic options. First up is the Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik , a family-friendly hotel featuring an on-site water park and multiple pools. Then, there’s the Pinija Hotel , located just a minute from Petrcane Beach and an adjacent water park. Finally, if you’re seeking more privacy and space, consider renting an apartment on Vrbo . 

Day or Weekend Trips near Zadar for Families

Looking to take a weekend trip from Zadar? Check out these options for the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer! 

Plitvice National Park

About 90 minutes from Zadar by car

Plitvice National Park is a must-visit destination, especially for adventure-loving families with tweens or tweens! Nestled in the heart of Croatia, this breathtaking national park boasts 16 interconnected lakes that cascade into waterfalls and lush forests that teem with wildlife. 

One of the best ways to explore is by taking one of the many hiking trails, which range in difficulty from easy to moderate. We recommend Walking Route A, which is around 2.2 miles, if you want something easy. Or, take the 3.8-mile loop that circles Kozjak Lake and Prošćansko Lake . Along these trails, you can experience stunning views of crystal-clear lakes surrounded by lush greenery.

Another unique feature of Plitvice National Park is its wooden boardwalks, which allow visitors to walk directly over the waterfalls and streams. This makes it an ideal place for little ones who enjoy being up close to nature without getting wet. Families can also take a boat ride on some of the bigger lakes. Other outdoor activities include swimming, kayaking, fishing, and cycling. 

For kids who want to learn more about the park and its wildlife and ecosystem, there are also educational materials available. Be sure to bring along comfortable walking shoes, as well as rain gear, since weather conditions can change quickly. 

Where to Stay near Plitvice National Park with Kids

Families looking for somewhere to stay near Plitvice National Park can check out Hotel Degenija , which is a 10-minute drive away. It also features an outdoor pool, plus bigger suites with living room areas. Villa Lika also offers spacious suites with sofa beds and living room areas, set on the edge of the park. 

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer, add Pula to your sightseeing itinerary! This coastal gem in northern Croatia is steeped in history, offering plenty of sightseeing and cultural immersion opportunities. 

One of the main highlights of Pula is its incredible Roman Amphitheatre – a towering architectural marvel that has stood the test of time. It’s a fantastic spot to take your kids for a fun and educational day out; they’ll love exploring the ancient ruins and imagining what life was like all those centuries ago.

But Pula isn’t just about historical landmarks: there are also wonderful beaches here where you can bask in the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, and build sandcastles together as a family. We love Gortans Beach because of the calm waters, ideal for swimming or kayaking, and the nearby cafe. Hawaii Beach is ranked one of the most beautiful in Pula, while Batana Beach attracts young people with its lively atmosphere. From Pula, families can also take a boat trip to nearby destinations like the Brijuni Islands for swimming, paddle boarding, and other fun water sports. 

Or, explore the larger county of Istria , home to the Lim Bay Nature Reserve and Cape Kamenjak. Kids will love splashing at Aquapark Istralandia , checking out the Dvigrad Ruins, or biking the Parenzana Trail. Plus, Istrian cuisine is another highlight that must not be missed during your visit! Try traditional dishes like truffles, pasta, or local seafood delicacies such as grilled squid or octopus salad.

Day or Weekend Trips from Pula for Families

Pula is a quaint coastal city with plenty of family-friendly activities, but why not take a day or weekend trip to explore even more? If you want more suggestions on things to do in Croatia with kids, keep reading to learn more! 

Looking for an all-inclusive vacation in Europe? Check out this Guide To The Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts In Europe For An Unforgettable Vacation !

Less than 40 minutes from Pula by car

One place that should be on your list of best places to visit in Croatia with kids this summer is Rovinj ! This charming coastal town boasts stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, picture-perfect streets lined with colorful houses, and a rich history dating back to ancient times. Plus, with its pedestrian-only old town, Rovinj is the perfect place to explore with your little ones on foot. 

Stroll along the narrow cobblestone streets of the Old Town and breathe in the salty sea breeze while stopping at one of the many ice cream shops or cafes offering local delicacies. The maze-like alleys are perfect for a game of hide-and-seek, while the historic landmarks like the Rovinj Heritage Museum and St. Euphemia’s Basilica provide an educational opportunity for young ones. Kids can even climb up the bell tower for fantastic views over the city! Another absolute must-visit attraction for families is Balbi’s Arch – an impressive stone arch that marks the entrance into Old Town. Rovinj also boasts fantastic seafood restaurants that parents and kids will love. For some adventure activities for tweens and teens, take your family on a bike ride through Punta Corrente Forest Park. 

Rovinj’s beaches ( Lone Bay, Golden Cape, and Valdaliso Beach ) are also a must-visit attraction for families. These pebble-lined shores provide ample opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles with your little ones. Rovinj is also a great place to take a day or weekend trip to nearby Motovun, Pula, Brijuni Islands, Aquapark Istralandia, and Lim Fjord. With so much to offer, you’ll quickly see why Rovinj is one of the best cities in Croatia for families!

Combine your trip to Croatia with a visit to Italy with this GetYourGuide From Rovinj: Venice Boat Trip with Day or One-Way Option !

Where To Stay In Rovinj With Kids

Looking for somewhere to stay in Rovinj with kids? We recommend the Family Hotel Amarin , which offers multiple outdoor pools, a Kids’ Club, and a short walk to the beach. Eden Hotel by Maistra Collection also has suites with kitchenettes and sofa beds, multiple outdoor pools (one with a kids’ section!), and it’s just a short walk from the beach (around 15 minutes). Families also love Maistra Select Villas Rubin Resort , which offers beach access and a Kids’ Club. Or, Lone Hotel by Maistra Collection , which has a kids’ pool.

Happy Travels!

We hope you liked this list of the Best Places to Visit in Croatia with Kids this Summer! From the stunning beaches of Makarska to the charming town of Rovinj, there are endless adventures waiting for families with children of all ages. One thing is certain: the country has something for everyone. Who knows – perhaps one day soon, you’ll find yourselves planning an exciting family vacation in beautiful Croatia!

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the attractions, accommodations, or things to do on this list may be closed. Please ensure availability before making your decision. 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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Top Places To Visit in CROATIA in 2024

Dario Srsen Last Updated: October 26, 2023

There is still time until summer, but it’s never too early to start planning your next trip. So you’ve come to the right place because we will tell you what the top places to visit in Croatia are.

Pro Tip: Why make things harder for yourself? Just bookmark this article so you don’t lose it! You can then always easily come back to it and check all of the best places to see in Croatia.

The Top 10 Places To Visit In Croatia

Anyone planning a visit to Croatia must already know a few places there. Most of you have heard of Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb. We even talked about Dubrovnik in great detail. We gave you the BEST PLACES TO EAT there. Even the BEST THINGS TO DO and PLACES TO STAY . But now we’ll tell you something about other parts of Croatia too. It really has some hidden gems and we’ll uncover them for you. In whichever part of Croatia you travel to, you can find something for yourself.

10. The Most Beautiful Sunset In The World – Zadar

Beaches | Modern Architectural Installations | Historic Buildings

Like many Croatian cities, Zadar has a rich history. It is said that a settlement in the place of today’s Zadar was first mentioned in writing 3.000 years ago! But its history was not only rich, but it was also turbulent too.

Zadar was a part of many wars and it was even sacked in the Fourth Crusade by a crusading army. The peculiar thing about that is that it happened despite Zadar being a Christian city. With a history like that, no wonder they had a big defense system. Today, that system is inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List!

But let’s circle back to its natural beauties. Why does Zadar have the most beautiful sunset in the world and if so, who gave it that title? It was none other than the great movie director Alfred Hitchcock. To be precise, he said the following. “Zadar has the most beautiful sunsets in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, in Florida”. The master of horror was mesmerized by this Mediterranean sunset. Chances are that you will be too.

On that note, Zadar has a few interesting attractions and one of them is “Greeting to the Sun”. It’s a contemporary installation and it’s made of 300 solar panels. Together, they make a circle of a 22-meter diameter that glows in during the night. It is located right next to the Sea Organ. Yes, you’ve read it right.

This Organ is located in the sea so the sea waves make a piece of haunting and unique music when they splash it. Besides these contemporary installations, you will find a lot of historic monuments too. And let me tell you there are MANY old churches. But Zadar is also home to some palaces, museums, nice squares, and a sphinx too!

9. Osijek – Heart Of Slavonia

Peaceful Destination | Architecture

Almost all of the popular destinations in Croatia are located on its coast. That’s why many tourists come to either Dalmatia or the Istria region. But continental Croatia is beautiful too! More specifically, the Slavonia region. But don’t mix it up with the countries Slovenia or Slovakia! It can be a little bit confusing for non-Europeans. The reason is that all three names probably come from the same word – Slaven. Simply put, Slovenia, Slovakia and Slavonia are all “the land of the Slavs”.

Osijek is situated on the river Drava, so you have a few ways to cross it. You can simply walk over the bridge or you can use a “kompa”. It’s a type of ferry and you can’t actually DRIVE it. Rather, you simply let the river current take you. But don’t worry, kompa is at all times connected to the mainland by a steel rope. So it’s one of the experiences you’ll have to try here.

If you are interested in a peaceful vacation, alone or with family, Osijek could be perfect for you. Of course, during the summer, there will be more activities. But you can always visit and see the cultural landmarks. The interesting thing about some of the buildings in Osijek is that they were deliberately not fully renovated. Some of the damage on them that happened during the war in the 1990s was left as it is. It was painted in red so it is even more visible. These “wounded buildings” are now a way to remember the tragic past of Croatia and Osijek itself.

8. Royal Holidays In Opatija

Beaches | Old Royal Resort | Botanical Garden

Lorde was maybe right when she said that “we’ll never be royals”. But I’m not so sure about that part “That kind of luxe just ain’t for us”. Royal luxury is something that we all would be curious about. Maybe we don’t think about that every day, sure. But if someone told you that you could easily have a royal vacation, wouldn’t you want to know what are they talking about? Well, I’m here to tell you exactly that.

The year 1844 is officially considered the beginning of tourism in Opatija. That was the year when Iginio Scarpa built the first-holiday house and later hosted people such as Emperor Franz Joseph I of Austria-Hungary, Empress Maria Anna, and the Croatian “Ban” Josip Jelačić. Royalty chose Opatija for a reason so you could pay it a visit too. If you’re interested to know more about these stories and visits, you can find everything out at the Croatian Museum of Tourism that’s located here.

Besides that, Opatija has an interesting landmark that it, khm, “borrowed” from Hollywood. I’m talking about the Walk of Fame. “Croatian Walk Of Fame” includes individuals that left a mark in sports, science, or culture/art. Among many wonders in Opatija that you have to visit are “American gardens”. It’s one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in this part of Europe that also hides a love story between a Hungarian merchant and an Austrian noblewoman.

7. Ancient City of Pula

Beaches | Roman Amphitheater

The region of Istria is an extremely popular destination for tourists. There are a few reasons for that. Its natural beauty, its history, its sea and the fact that it’s so close to Central Europe. Much closer than Split or Dubrovnik. Well, the center of this region is the ancient city of Pula. Why do I say ancient? Well for starters, Pula has a huge Roman amphitheater! And believe it or not, they still use it like in the old days. They stage gladiator fights!

Of course, those fights have a much happier ending than in Roman times. But that manifestation, named “Spectacvli Antiqvi” is still very popular and shows a glimpse of the Roman Empire. This amphitheater (Pula Arena) is a stage for many other manifestations and events too. A very prestigious Croatian film festival is also held there. And on one occasion, a hockey game was played in it!

Pula is situated right next to the Brijuni Islands, a famous national park. The islands have a zoo that was built by the leader of former Yugoslavia, Marshall Tito. In a way, it was his summer residence, but now it’s a tourist attraction and a place of many gatherings and conferences. But besides being a great place for summer vacation, Pula and the surrounding area are nice during the winters too. So if you want to see everything mentioned, but don’t care much for beautiful beaches or swimming, just come during the fall or winter.

6. Lošinj Archipelago

Outdoor Activities | Beaches

If you are visiting Croatia, you just have to visit at least one of its many islands too! Croatia has a beautiful coast filled with islands full of history, gastronomy, and natural beauty that’s just waiting to be discovered. So it’s hard to pick just one among them. There could literally be a top 10 list dedicated only to islands. But in the end, I decided to list this gem. The Lošinj Island.

This island used to be connected to Cres island. But now, they are separated by a man-made canal. Lošinj is the home of a very peculiar museum – The Museum of Apoxyomenos. Its uniqueness comes from the fact that it is dedicated to only one exhibit. That exhibit is the bronze statue of the Apoxyomenos, a young athlete. The statue was discovered only in the late 20 th century. To be more precise, a Belgian tourist found it in 1997, at the depth of around 45 meters.

Who knows, maybe many more wonders like that can be found in the surrounding area. You could stumble upon a statute while taking a walk on one of the many footpaths and promenades on the Lošinj Archipelago. It is said that altogether, there are 250 kilometers of walking trails. For those looking for something more adventurous, there is sport climbing and parachuting too. But whatever you choose, you’re sure to have a blast on Lošinj.

5. The Peaceful Paradise of Lika

Peaceful Destination | Three National Parks | Birthplace of Nikola Tesla

I should clarify one thing right away. Lika is not a city, it’s a region. Furthermore, it is one of the least populated regions in Croatia. So, this is a place where you mostly come if you want to enjoy peace and quiet.

That does not mean there is not anything to do or see, not at all. But its peacefulness and natural beauty are its main attributes and that is something you should be aware of when planning a trip.

That being said, there are a lot of activities that you can book in the biggest city in Lika – Gospić. Lika has a lot of caves so cave exploring is a big thing. You could also take a trip to one of three national parks situated here. Plitvice Lakes, North Velebit or Paklenica. Or maybe to the Natural Park Velebit? And if that is something you enjoy, you could even go fishing or hunting. Other activities in nature include cycling and sport climbing, paragliding, and many others.

In Lika, you will also find the memorial center of the great scientist and inventor, Nikola Tesla. You may ask yourself, why on Earth is there something like that in Lika? The answer is simple. Nikola Tesla was born there, in the village of Smiljan where the memorial center is.

4. The Architecture Of Zagreb

Architecture | Restaurant Scene | Free Activities | Museums | Nightlife

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and is definitely a city you shouldn’t miss. It’s also the biggest city in the country so you can find anything there. From parks to pubs and museums. And it’s definitely a place you should explore on foot.

Most of the older buildings in the city are works of art for themselves. So you can best appreciate its beauty by walking through its streets. The great thing about Zagreb is that there is an abundance of free activities!

For example, visiting the beautiful Maksimir Park or The Zagreb Cathedral. Also, a lot of the places are pet friendly too! So if you came with your four-legged friend(s), don’t worry. For example, you could go on the Strossmayer promenade and get an incredible panoramic view of Zagreb. Many would say that this is also a romantic place to take a walk. So maybe you could take a two-legged special friend too.

Among many special places in Zagreb, there is one that is… different… to say the least. It’s the Mirogoj Cemetery. Ok, now hear me out. Some may find it dark or even morbid, but it’s worth it.

This place is an open art gallery and a beautiful park. There, you can find many sculptures by the Croatian most famous sculptors. Besides that, maybe you’ll even be interested in visiting graves of some of the Croatian poets, artists, politicians or nobility because many are buried on Mirogoj.

3. The Neretva Valley

Gastronomy | Historic Landmarks | Beaches | Local Summer Manifestations

The Neretva valley flows from Bosnia and Herzegovina to Croatia. On the Croatian side, there are three cities (Metković, Opuzen and Ploče) and a few municipalities (Slivno, Kula Norinska, Zažablje and Pojezerje). All of them are abundant with natural beauties and great food. One of the local dishes, “brudet”, even made it on our TOP FOODS ARTICLE . Besides that, this place gives you an incredible blend of life on the river and on the Adriatic sea. It’s something that you can only experience here.

In addition to all of that, the valley is rich with history. So, the ancient city of Narona is situated here. In its place, around the archeological findings, an in situ museum was built. In that way, all of the finds are enclosed and preserved and among them are 17 statues. Neretva also has a very popular amateur sports manifestation named “Maraton lađa”. It is a race of traditional boats from Neretva where the competing teams row on a 22.5-kilometer track. (Almost 14 miles)

There are other manifestations too, like the street art festival “Zen Opuzen”. Many also enjoy coming to the kite surfing and party haven – the beach on the mouth of the Neretva that locals call “ušće”. A great place to stay while you’re visiting Neretva is Blace, situated in the Slivno municipality. Slivno is also rich with natural beauties and many old churches and historical landmarks.

And if you do come to Blace, why not stay at Apartments Galeb. They are cozy, three-star, two-bedroom apartments that are fully equipped. All of the apartments have a gorgeous view of the Adriatic. And the best thing about them? They are managed by me and my family!

2. The Most Beautiful City In The World – Split

Restaurant Scene | Beaches | Historic Landmarks | Nightlife

There truly is no other city like Split. Everyone who has lived or still lives there will tell you the same. It’s the most beautiful city in the world. And I say that too because I was influenced by friends and family living there. Split just has something special. X factor you could say. And it also has the most wonderful and crazy football (soccer) fans in the world. They are called Torcida and their club is Hajduk. If you come to Split, on every other wall, you will see graffiti about one of those two, Torcida or Hajduk. The city and the region as a whole live for this club.

Split was the summer residence of the Roman emperor Diocletian. His palace is extremely well preserved and is probably the main attraction in the city. Because of the many architectural monuments it holds, Split was also the set for filming some of the episodes of the popular fantasy series Game of Thrones.

But above all, Split is a laid-back city. The main word that you will learn here is “pomalo”. A rough translation of it would be “take it easy”. And that should be your motto while visiting. Take your time, enjoy the beauty, and party hard because Split has a very good clubbing scene too. And while you’re at it, be sure to try as many of the local dishes as you can. The gastronomy here is incredible.

1. Dubrovnik – The Pearl Of The Mediterranean

Architecture | Restaurant Scene | Beaches | Museums

We all know that Dubrovnik is definitely the number one place to visit in Croatia. It’s for a reason that cruisers “occupy” the sea around it and that the city is crowded with visitors. Especially during the summer season. Who wouldn’t want to walk on those centuries-old mesmerizing walls surrounding the Old City? Fortunately, we’re here to help you with that too so you can easily explore the city by booking our tours .

TV buffs may also know that HBO’s Game of Thrones was filmed here. Its mesmerizing beauty made Dubrovnik a perfect candidate to play the fictional capital of Westeros – King’s Landing. The city is literally filled with exquisite historic landmarks. Especially in the Old Town which is a landmark by itself. Furthermore, Dubrovnik is surrounded by natural beauty.

Every day of your holiday, you could explore something new in Dubrovnik or around it. And high on that list would be Lokrum island. It’s only ten minutes away and it has incredible vegetation and sightseeing monuments. But not to worry, if you’re looking for a party, Dubrovnik has good nightlife too! 

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

A great hotel at a great price has become the norm in this internet era. Our article explains what areas are the best in Dubrovnik so you can get a great deal on the perfect location!

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Summer in Croatia: Things to do and places to see

A complete guide to the best places to explore in summer in Croatia. Our inspiration for your next Croatia summer vacation with the best beaches and cultural locations.

Last Update: July 8, 2024

• Destination

If you are looking for a breathtaking summer vacation spot, look no further than Croatia. This country is located in the Mediterranean Sea and boasts some of the most beautiful coastlines in the world.

Croatia is one of the most beautiful places in Europe with its sapphire-blue waters, lush green countryside, and charming medieval villages. In addition to its stunning scenery, it is also home to various historical and cultural attractions.

One of the best ways to experience Croatia is by sailing around its stunning coast. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim, sunbathe, and explore the many islands dotting the Adriatic Sea. And, of course, don’t forget to enjoy some of the delicious seafood!

If you’re more of a landlubber, you can spend a day hiking in one of its many national parks. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, go zip-lining or rafting through the country’s gorgeous landscapes.

Whatever you feel like doing, you will indeed have a fantastic time in Croatia. This article will give you the specifics necessary to plan the perfect summer vacation.

Why Visit Croatia this summer?

• Longer Days
• Incredible Festivals
• High Temperatures in Europe
• Friendly Locals
• Delicious food
• Party all night and day
• Best beaches
• Perfect Road Trips
• Discover National Parks

What to expect spending summer in Croatia

Since the weather is warm during the Croatia summer holidays , you will want to pack light with comfortable clothing. Try wearing airy fabrics that won’t make you sweat, and it’s a good idea to pack a swimming suit and a pair of sunglasses, as you’ll likely be spending time at the beach or by the pool.

If you’re planning on doing any hiking or trekking, be sure to pack appropriate footwear and clothing. And, if you’re visiting any religious sites, remember to pack a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders and respect the dress code.

Summertime is the perfect time to visit Croatia with its beautiful weather and stunning scenery.  And whether you’re interested in music, dance, history, culture, or just plain swimming and island hunting, summer in Croatia has everything that suits your interests. So be sure to take advantage of this wonderful country and don’t forget to pack the essentials!

When is Summer in Croatia?

This is the busiest season. The weather is warm to hot, there are many tourists, and almost every destination is packed with people. Summer in Croatia hits in mid-may when the temperatures reach over 25 °C. All the way from June to mid-September, it’s always hot, and south more than the north and internal parts like Zagreb .

Even though the water is perfect for enjoying the beaches and you might be tempted to travel to Croatia during these months, you must remember that this is when the prices are the highest. 

Expect to pay more for accommodation, food and pretty much any kind of service related to tourism.

This post may contain affiliate links or Sponsored Links ( read our Cookie Policy ), useful experiences that we love to suggest to you. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are really grateful) at no extra cost to you . Click on it will help us run this website for you, for FREE, funding our project, continuing to travel informing curious explorers.

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Summer temperatures in Croatia

Croatia has a Mediterranean climate, which means it has warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The average summer temperature in Croatia is 26°C (79°F) , with highs often reaching into the 30°C (86-95°F) range . 

With this, Croatia becomes the perfect place to relax on one of the many beaches, go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or explore the country’s stunning natural scenery. However, internally and in the remote areas, Croatia can be a bit chill in summer too. So carry with you a jacket or sweater just for nights or morning early wake up.

Summer weather in Croatia

Croatia in june.

Summer in Croatia starts in June, with the average temperature being a comfortable 23°C (73°F). This is the perfect time to enjoy all that Croatia has to offer, as the crowds haven’t arrived yet and you’ll be able to find cheap accommodation. In addition, you’ll have fun exploring one of Croatia’s many mediaeval towns or going for a hike in one of its national parks.

Croatia in July

July is probably the busiest month in Croatia, as this is when most people take their summer vacations. 

Croatia in July has the ideal weather for spending a day at the beach, going for a swim, or enjoying the country’s beautiful coastal scenery. July is also an excellent month for exploring Croatia’s many historical and cultural attractions.

August in Croatia

August is still a busy month in Croatia, but you’ll start to see the crowds thin out towards the end of the month. 

Enjoying the country’s stunning coastline and clear blue waters is a great time. So take advantage of the quieter beaches and go for a swim or sunbathe to your heart’s content.

September in Croatia

September is a great month to visit Croatia, as the weather is still warm and most of the crowds have gone home. 

You’ll have the country’s beautiful landscapes all to yourself and can enjoy its many attractions without the summertime crowds. 

September is also an excellent month for exploring Croatia’s wine country, as the grape harvest is in full swing. Also, make sure to check out the olive oil production in Istria, and book this tour if you fancy it!

How to get around Croatia in summer?

There are a few different ways to get around Croatia in summer . The most popular way is by car, as this gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. You’ll find car rentals in Croatia through significant companies such as Hertz , Avis , through Discover Cars comparison . Also, check out some of the best prices for renting a car in Croatia .

Another popular way to get around Croatia in summer is by taking the bus or the train ride. Both are cheap and convenient options, but the main downside is that you’ll be limited to the schedule, making exploring difficult. However, bus and train rides are the best if you want to relax and enjoy the country’s stunning scenery.

Several charter companies offer boat rentals if you’re planning on sailing around the coast . This is an excellent option if you want to explore the coastline at your own pace.

Public transport in Croatia

Even if you travel by car, you will need public transportation at some point. For example, you’ll need boats when visiting the islands, and when visiting smaller cities, you’ll need buses.

If you don’t have a car, the cheapest option to travel throughout Croatia would be by bus. In the next section, we’ll describe all you need to know about each form of public transportation in Croatia.

Travelling by bus in Croatia

We liked our backpacking vacation in Croatia , travelling mainly by bus. This trip was long-awaited, and the Croatia bucket list was dusted off, taking off all the beautiful places one by one and exploring Croatia in the summer. Check the best route, using this comparison tool.

Buses are the most common mode of transportation in Croatia and are more dependable than railways. Local buses extend out to rural locations and may occasionally save your $$ when you’re in the middle of nowhere. Some local buses accept payment on board, so have some cash with you. Others, mainly for considerable distances, require a previous booking.

Flixbus is the most popular and frequently combines with local businesses to serve short distances. Seats must be reserved in advance, as they sell out rapidly, especially during the summer months in Croatia.

How much does cost to travel to Croatia by bus?

Travelling by bus in Croatia is the most environmentally friendly way to see the nation. This exploration is also less expensive and more enjoyable in some situations. For example, we enjoyed our night bus from Zagreb to Dubrovnik (yes, you can go this far with Flixibus ), but it also saved us when our boat from Dubrovnik to Hvar was cancelled.

A bus ticket from Zagreb to Dubrovnik costs between 190 and 230 kn , even when purchased in advance. A bus ticket from Split to Dubrovnik will also cost you between 100 and 130 KR . Prices may differ during peak season.

Travelling by bus in Croatia is convenient . The majority of buses are contemporary and feature air conditioning. A few night buses can also help you save money (you won’t have to pay for overnight accommodations).

Good to know | You might be asked to pay extra for your luggage (5-10 kn)

Trains in Croatia

Trains are pleasant and inexpensive, but there are few connections, making rail travel in Croatia, not the ideal option. Furthermore, the trains are rather old and sluggish. It is more dependable if you intend to go to Croatia by rail from another country. Zagreb , the capital, is well connected to Ljubljana, Slovenia, Budapest , Salzburg, Austria, and Munich, Germany .

We recommend taking the bus if you just have a few days in Croatia. Trains take longer, and you may have to change trains and platforms while waiting hours. As previously said, there are certain sections with no links, such as Split to Dubrovnik , where you can take the bus or the ferry. Because there are so few trains, you’ll need to adjust your Croatia itinerary accordingly.

When it comes to prices, the trains are pretty affordable. Zagreb to Split – 8h 40min | Average Cost: £20/€20.50/$25/Kn 180 Zagreb to Rijeka – 2h 40min | Average Cost: £12/€14/$15/Kn 105

Domestic flights in Croatia

Flight is the quickest way to go from one place to the next. Internal flights are popular in Croatia, and many travellers travel from Zagreb to Dubrovnik daily. The lines connect the cities properly and are ideal if you don’t want to spend hours on a bus.

You can fly from Zagreb to Split, Zadar, Pula, Rijeka, and Dubrovnik.

However, the tickets are more expensive than other modes of transportation around the country. If you are travelling to Croatia in the summer, you should buy your tickets ahead to save money .

Travel by ferry in Croatia

Travelling by ferry is the most effective way to go island hopping or just reach faraway locations. Creating the ideal Croatia itinerary by combining bus routes and boat crossings is the most thoughtful way to get around. The boat is ideal for getting from Split to Dubrovnik. Instead of wasting time crossing the short border between Croatia and Bosnia on your trip to Dubrovnik , use the boat instead.

On the route to Dubrovnik, spend a few days at Hvar Island and Korcula to experience the Dalmatian island.

Also, have you ever considered taking a day excursion from Croatia to Venice? You may visit two nations by taking a catamaran voyage to Venice from Pula , Rovinj, or Porec .

Things to know before visiting Croatia

Croatia currency.

Croatia is a member of the EU, although not in the economic sense, as they do not have their own currency. The native currency is Kuna, although you may pay with Euro and receive Kuna in return in many locations. Remember that you can pay by card wherever in Dubrovnik , so you don’t need to load up on cash.

Croatia is outside the Schengen Area

Like Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania and some others in the Europe zone , also Croatia is outside of the Schengen Zone. However, it will not last long, as, from 2024, Croazia is obliged to join the club.

Best time to explore Croatia during summer

Croatia is popular among tourists in Europe, and it’s one of the first destinations promoted by travel agents. The pristine landscape, lovely beaches, crystal clear water, and a pleasant overall atmosphere make the Mediterranean country one of the most beloved.

In our opinion, the best time to visit Croatia during the summer months is in June, early as possible or shifting from September. We don’t love the mass crowds, which is one of the main reasons we gave you a perfect time. However, if you only have July and August for your regular annual leave, it’s better to discover hidden gems in Croatia and find alternative routes to travel. This post will give you a mix of well-known locations and still less popular Croatia summer destinations.

Things to do in Croatia in Summer

Festivals and events | summer season in croatia.

Summertime in Croatia is filled with festivals and events that celebrate the country’s rich culture and history. Some festivals glorify Croatia’s traditional music and dance, while others are more modern and focus on contemporary music and art.

Whether you’re interested in music, dance, history, or culture, you’ll be sure to find a festival or event to suit your interests in Croatia during the summer months . Here are some of the best ones to check out according to Croatia’s cities.

• International Film Festival in Zadar (July) | The Zadar film festival is held in the city in the centre of Croatia and screens a wide range of films from all over the world. The festival has something for everyone, focusing on independent and avant-garde cinema.
• Summer Festival in Pula (July) | This is one of the most popular summer festivals in Croatia , which features a wide range of musical performances and other events such as theatre, dance, and visual arts. This is usually held at arenas around the city.
• Croatian World Games in Pag (July) | This annual event is held in Pag town and features many different sports such as basketball, football, volleyball, and more. This is a great event for anyone interested in sport, as it brings together some of the best athletes from all over the world.
• MoDem Festival in Plitvice Lake (July) | This annual festival is held in Plitvice Lake and features a wide range of electronic music. The MoDem Festival is an excellent event for anyone who loves to dance, as the festival goes on all night long .
• Makarska Jazz Festival in Makarska Riviera (July) | This annual festival is held in the city of Makarska and features a wide range of jazz performances. This is a great event for anyone who loves jazz music, as it features some of the best performers from all over the world.

15 places to visit in Croatia this summer

• Hvar Island

Krka National Park

Plitvice lake.

• Makarska Riviera

Places to visit in Croatia in summer

Not many truly understand the beauty of Zagreb. However, the capital of Croatia is perfect all year round, and you can visit the city to explore Croatia in the summer. This Zagreb travel guide contains all the information you need to plan your vacation in Zagreb .

Zagreb is the capital of Croatia and its largest city. It is located in the country’s northwest, along the Sava river and is divided into 17 districts. The city has two souls, a modern side toward the European style and a past made of the reminiscences of the Communist Area and, furthermost the bloody war of the 90s.

However, Zagreb is today a popular tourist destination known for its museums, galleries, and theatres. In addition, Zagreb is home to many different festivals and events throughout the year, so there is always something going on in Zagreb . Visiting Zagreb in summer , you will enjoy the outdoor and accessible parks. Also, note down to explore the tasty local food and the markets .

Also Read: Things to do in Zagreb Croatia!

Dubrovnik | Best places in Croatia summer

Dubrovnik is probably one of the most popular cities in Croatia. Definitely, you have seen some of the best photos of Dubrovnik on Instagram ( Check out our account for some inspiration ).

Like the rest of Croatia, Dubrovnik is most popular during the summer when the city struggles with over-tourism. High season in Dubrovnik means accommodation is limited and at its most expensive, lines are at their longest, and tours or activities may well be sold out. Check out our guide on how to spend three days in Dubrovnik.

ACCOMMODATION IN DUBROVNIK

Zadar is a small city on the coast of Croatia, often left out of the itineraries, located on a beautiful peninsula surrounded by high walls. It’s a quiet place that becomes full of tourists during summer. The historic city centre is full of history and legends, and the promenade on the seaside is one of the most lovely places in Europe .

Zadar is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe but less touristy compared to Split or Dubrovnik. The Sea Organ is a famous landmark in Zadar , attracting locals and vacationers every evening at sunset. Depending on how the waves strike the steps, they make distinct sounds. It’s both intriguing and soothing. Other tourist attractions in Zadar are the People’s Square, the Archaeological Museum and, of course, a stroll around the old town.

ACCOMMODATION IN ZADAR

Best day trips from Zadar

• Kornati & Telascica by boat
• Zrmanja River Trip
• Zadar Canal Sailing Trip 4 hours
• Sakarun Beach day trip
• Plitvice Lakes – 8 hours tour
• Dugi Otok day trip

Is Dubrovnik worth visiting? 10 Reasons to visit Dubrovnik

Split | Best city in Croatia for summer

Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and the regional administrative centre for Central Dalmatia. The city’s Old Town revolves around Diocletian’s Palace. To avoid public scrutiny in 305 A.D., Roman Emperor Diocletian built the UNESCO World Heritage Site near his birthplace, Spalatum, in the fourth century.  The city is usually lively, and youngers attracted by the fun nightlife prefer the location. Spending some time in Split in summer will let you hit the beaches and natural and unspoiled locations. Check out some day trips from Split to the local islands; the best suggested by us is Hvar Island, where you should spend a few days at least. For the perfect guide to Split , check out our itinerary. Split will leave you stunned no matter how much time you have and will have you already planning your next trip back.

ACCOMMODATION IN SPLIT

Split Guides

We crafted the perfect itinerary to Split. A guide to Split in 3 days with a detailed itinerary of what to do each day, enjoy the old town and go for an epic day trip or two.

Read Also Split 3 days itinerary

Hvar Island | Best nightlife in Croatia in summer

Hvar, the sunniest of the Adriatic Sea islands, is located along the Dalmatian coastline and is ideal for experiencing Croatian life. Winding stone roads, Gothic architecture, a historic plaza with the Arsenal building, St Stephen Church, a little harbour, and, of course, the 16th-century Spanish fortification, Fortica, flank the eponymous town here.

The summer wind on Hvar Island is fragrant with lavender and sea salt. With year-round weather, this famous isle is packed with beach parties, gastronomical jewels, swimming holes, and lovely stone towns. The lavender fields on the island are well-known. You must include Hvar Island in your Croatia bucket list and explore it this summer.

ACCOMMODATION IN HVAR

We explored Krka National Park as a day trip from Split, which was perfect. The fantastic national park was a breath of fresh air after many days of extensive travelling around Croatia.

The park itself is awesome, and you are embracing an incredible journey starting with a speechless boat ride from Skradin directly into the heart of the National Park. Check out our suggestion for the perfect Krka National Park day trip . The trip costs only £24 from Split, transport and access included through Get Your Guide . Book your tour .

Where to go in Croatia in summer

Some of the best locations and perfect places off the beaten path in Croatia this summer

One of the most hidden gems in Croatia is Trogir, a Unesco World Heritage site close to Split. Our itinerary of two weeks in Croatia was already packed with locations and must-do activities, but we were audacious to add another stop along the way.

Without a doubt, it was a great addition, as Trogir is wonderful and you can’t miss visiting the coast of Croatia in the summer. The old town seems frozen in time, and the cobblestone streets are picture-perfect. Spending Summer in Trogir , check out the program of the two months jampacked Trogir summer festival with many activities, concerts and performances .

Šibenik | Best place for summer holiday in Croatia

Continuing along the coast, you will discover Šibenik , another incredible historic city in Croatia. The Unesco World Heritage site is full of incredible activities and picturesque spots. Šibenik features many quintessential Dalmatian resorts and has often lagged behind neighbouring Zadar and Split.

The main attractions range from a wildlife conservation centre to a refurbished masterpiece of Renaissance history, the Cathedral of St James . Šibenik is peaceful, away from the busy streets of Split. It is an advantage if you want to visit Croatia in summer to remain away from the crowds, while nevertheless delivering great Adriatic food, great beaches and a lot of activities.

ALSO READ | Things to do in Sibenik

The most popular city in Istria Region is perfect for visiting Croatia in July when the rest of the country is typically hot and humid. However, Rijeka still has an incredible cultural heritage and gorgeous beaches, and the prices are lower than other coastal towns.

Things to do in Rijeka in Summer

Rijeka, Croatia’s third city, is a low-key location to visit in Summer. Less popular compared to destinations like Dubrovnik and Split, but definitely more authentic and still pristine in certain ways. We found Rijeka also cheaper compared to other well known locations across the country, and anyway with many day trip opportunities.

Rijeka is a city where you can immerse yourself in Croatian daily life, whether it is over a cup of coffee, a dinner, or a night out on Korzo, Rijeka’s popular promenade. The food in Rijeka was insane, fresh and well cooked with a variation that is very similar to the Italian style thanks to its past. In the morning, we visited the local market by the harbour, and it was a feast of colours, flavours and smells. Then, we stopped at a local pop-up shop to buy fresh fried seafood, and it was incredible and cheap. There is plenty to do in Rijeka, from the unspoiled beaches to the architectonic building and many places to visit. The architecture will remind you of well-known European locations , such as Italy, Milan and Rome, or Budapest in Hungary. There is also a small airport in Rijeka with fewer flights every day, and this is where we took our flight back to London; worth checking to plan your Croatia Itinerary .

ACCOMMODATION IN RIJEKA

Before travelling to Rovinj, many people referred to it as the Positano of Croatia. Even though we still believe that the city on the Amalfi Coast is unique and romantic, Rovinj is definitely unmissable while planning your holidays in Croatia .

The town in northern Croatia is made of narrow cobblestone streets that take you to the top of the best viewpoint, the Church of Saint Euphemia. Exploring Istria Region in summer , you can’t miss Rovinj and its maze of streets and fantastic promenade.

Rovinj is a magnificent tiny Croatian city that occupies the entire peninsula bounded on three sides by the Adriatic Sea. The ancient town’s centre is primarily Venetian and made of pale limestone that sparkles in the light, with intriguing remnants from every period of its violent past.

During the summer, you may explore the maze of alleyways before dining under a parasol, ending the day with a refreshing gelato.

ACCOMMODATION IN ROVINJ

Often left behind exploring Croatia , Porec is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist spots. This gorgeous beach village on Istria’s west coast is a great place to start exploring the peninsula since it boasts an excellent mix of nightlife, family activities, sports, beaches, and hotels.

Enjoy a beautiful sunset strolling around the seaside, exploring the unique buildings of the old town. Then, stop by a restaurant to taste the perfectly cooked seafood or purchase unique souvenirs from Croatia.

Must-visit in Porec is the Euphrasian Basilica in Porec originates from the 4th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The old town on the Adriatic coast offers many water sports activities, and you will have a wonderful time in Porec in summer.

Pula is one of the most popular locations on the west coast of Croatia. The Amphitheatre of Pula is unbelievable gorgeous and looks like, on a small scale, the Colosseum of Rome .

However, Pula Arena is a popular spot to visit in the city and is often overwhelmed with tourists from the ships arriving in the local harbour. However, Pula is not just that; head to the centre to find reminiscences of Roman times such as the Roman forum , the well-maintained Arch of the Sergii, the Temple of Augustus and the Archeology museum.

You can get to Pula from Venice for a day trip or to start your Croatia Itinerary.

Well known for its crazy nightlife and being one of the most lively party islands in Croatia, Pag is a superb location to enjoy summer in Croatia .

The temperatures are pleasant from the end of May toward the whole of September. Pag is an island, and there are so many beaches to discover.

If you are not so much for nightlife, small villages around the island are still quiet and relaxing where to enjoy the slow lifestyle. So get away from the crowds and experience Croatia’s tasty food and simple life.

ACCOMMODATION IN PAG

You can’t miss Plitvice Lake staying in Zagreb or Split , and visiting Croatia in the summer. The unspoiled nature will leave you speechless.

The wooden bridges that pass over the lovely waterfalls and streams create a breathtaking landscape. Take a day off from the chaos of the main cities, and relax in the calm of Plitvice lakes, slowing down your Croatia itinerary just a bit.

Hiking through the park for an entire day, enjoying the whole national park and following the walking trails. The entrance fee costs 200 KN per person, and many tours start from Zagreb or Split. Book your tour from Zagreb or check the availability from Split .

Makarska Riviera | Best Croatia resorts

We guess you haven’t wandered of Makarska while checking the best locations for this summer vacation. This destination in Croatia is mainly known by locals or adventurers and mostly for word of mouth.

The little beach city between Split and Dubrovnik should be on your Croatia bucket list . Sun lovers will be kept satisfied for days on end by white pebbled beaches lapped by crystal blue Adriatic Sea waves, while the more adventurous may explore the spectacular peaks of the Biokovo Alps . There is some for everyone; that’s why Makarska is ideal for families and also young couples.

The area’s Dalmatian heritage, UNESCO sites, and exuberant attitude combine with Makarska’s magnificent natural beauty for a tempting summer retreat.

How long stay in Croatia?

We found that one week in Croatia is perfect for a quick escape to the beaches and enjoying the relaxation in most cities. However, if you review your itinerary carefully, you might still enjoy three days in Dubrovnik and three days in Split, taking the best of Croatia in one go .

If you are a backpacker like us, planning a 10-day Croatia itinerary gives you a chance to explore Istria, spend a few days in Zagreb, and have a few day’s trips around. Two weeks in Croatia are the right match for an adventure and peaceful relaxation. The Adriatic Country is perfect for exploring the still unknown inland, with lower prices than the coastal towns. This perfect match makes Croatia one of the most exciting locations for a workation in Europe .

Is Croatia expensive to visit?

We carefully planned our escape to Croatia before our big trip of the year to Barbados (which was the most expensive one). We did plan Croatia, assuming it would be a budget trip in Europe. We were so wrong. The costs of Dubrovnik are insane compared to Zagreb . The accommodation prices are somewhere double or even more in the high season. I travelled to Croatia about 10 years ago, which was definitely less expensive. If you want to travel through Croatia on a budget, follow where locals go, and go off the beaten path (Northern Croatia, Zagreb, inland).

CROATIA TRAVEL INSURANCE

Don’t travel anywhere without travel insurance, no matter your journey. We have learned that at our expense while travelling from Dubrovnik to Hvar, our ferry was cancelled because of rough sea weather. Even though Croatia is safe , the pandemic taught many people that things might go wrong everywhere in the world, and insurance is frequently the only option to mitigate any problems with the least cost or stress to you.

Hey Mondo | COVID-19 coverage, medical expenses and total travel costs. A f antastic app with 24-hour medical care and no extra charges. You can save 5% on your insurance by booking through our link .

SafetyWing | COVID-19 coverage, comprehensi ve travel & medical, and insurance can be purchased while travelling for digital nomads .

Are you planning to visit Croatia soon?

Before you travel to Croatia , we have some recommendations for you:

PHOTOGRAPHY | Explore the best photo spots in Dubrovnik , or get a glimpse of the most incredible locations for Instagram photos of Split. Check our Guides!

THINGS TO DO IN CROATIA | a nifty guide to all the best attractions in Croatia. Explore Croatia hidden gems or get inspired by our Croatian Bucket list .

Q&A Croatia in summer

What are the summer months in croatia.

From June to September are generally considered the summer months in Croatia and Europe. The best temperatures to enjoy summer in Croatia are in this part of the year when you can experience.

The best time to visit Croatia is during the summer months, from June to September, when there is a lot of sunlight and the days are longer. Also, Croatia’s summer temperatures are warm, between 19°C (66°F) and 30/32°C (90°F).

Is Croatia hot in the summer?

Yes. Don’t get into the sun in the central hours of the day to avoid sunstroke. 

July in Croatia is scorching and dry, with temperatures reaching over 30°C , and it is often referred to as the hottest month of the year. However, this is the peak season in Croatia, and we suggest avoiding it.

What are summers like in Croatia?

Croatia in summer is beautiful. The lovely season is bright and sunny, occasionally scorching, but the breeze helps to keep the heat at bay. Even in July, there might be cold days with rain and a touch of Bora. There may also be hot and humid spells with highs of 35 °C (95 °F) or higher .

Do they speak English in Croatia?

Yes. English is widely spoken in Croatia, and the north of the country (Istria) also speaks Italian. Overall, statistics want one out of every two people you meet in Croatia to be likely to speak English.

WHERE TO GO NEXT?

Every time is good to travel and make new experiences. As London-based travel bloggers, it’s easy to find cheap flights and explore new places even just at the weekend. Our Croatia itinerary was detailed and easy to plan thanks to the direct flights from London. If you’re adding Croatia in your bucket list , read our guides here .

SEASIDE, BEACHES AND ITINERARIES

Amazing things to do in Croatia

Best Instagram Spots in Dubrovnik

How to spend 3 days in Split The ultimate guide of Backpacking in Croatia The ultimate 3 days Dubrovnik itinerary How to spend one day in Dubrovnik Things to do in Sibenik Is Dubrovnik worth visiting? From Split to Hvar by ferry Day trip from Split to Hvar

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Croatia off the beaten path | 11 Hidden gems in Croatia to visit

The Ultimate Guide to the best Dubrovnik Instagram Spots

The ultimate Croatia bucket list | 30 Best things to do in Croatia

The best 3 days in Split itinerary, Croatia

How to spend 3 days in Dubrovnik | Best tours, itineraries and a guide to Dubrovnik old town

Art & Culture Travel Blog

Things to know before visiting croatia this summer – 2024 edition.

• Tea Gudek Šnajdar

Things to know before visiting Croatia this summer was first published on 23 May 2023 and updated on 21 June 2024.

With its beautiful blue sea, numerous lovely towns and unique places to see, it’s no wonder Croatia is more and more popular each year. However, it seems as if summer 2024 is going to be the biggest ever when it comes to Croatian tourism. As a local and someone who travelled a lot around Croatia, here are some of my tips with things to know before visiting Croatia this summer.

Things to know before visiting Croatia this summer

Croatia is a country you should put on your travelling bucket list. Located on the Mediterranean Sea, on the border between Central and Eastern Europe, it offers an exciting mix of cultures, architecture and surprising cuisine. Although it’s a safe and easy country to travel around, there are still some things to know before visiting Croatia this summer. Here are some of my top tips for travelling to Croatia.

⤷ Read more : Best places to visit in Croatia (recommended by a local resident)

Weather in Croatia in Summer

Summer is HOT in Croatia! Global warming is real, and as someone living in Croatia almost all my life, I can feel the summer being warmer each year. The average summer temperature in Croatia is 25 – 30 degrees Celsius (77 – 86 Fahrenheit), but it often goes above 30 degrees Celsius. We have a few heat waves each summer, during which the temperature could be around or over 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit).

Summers in Croatia are usually the most pleasant on the coast and in the mountains. The heat is the worst in the Slavonia region, in the town of Knin and its surroundings. It’s good to be aware of that when planning your trip to Croatia this summer. These are some things locals in Croatia do to cope with the summer heat: avoid being in the sun between 11 am and 5 pm on hot days, stay in the shadow, apply sunscreen, eat light food and drink a lot of water.

⤷ TIP : Water is safe to drink in all of Croatia. Have your water bottle with you and refill it regularly. You can fill it in at some of the public water fountains. But, it’s also common to ask in a cafe to refill your water bottle. They’ll do that free of charge.

Where to go in Croatia during the summer

Summer in Croatia is best to be spent on its coast. The temperatures are much milder there. And it’s a perfect time to enjoy swimming, island hopping, and just walking by the beach. It’s also the time when life in Croatia moves to its coast. Numerous concerts, festivals, theatre performances and many other events are organised all over it.

Gorski kotar, Hrvatsko zagorje or Lika regions could also be a good choice for a summer trip to Croatia. They are located more inland but filled with vast forests, hills and mountains, making them a hidden gem for visiting Croatia in summer.

⤷ Read more : Things to do in Zagreb 2024: Tips from a local

Food in Croatia

As a Croatian, I had numerous discussions with my friends and family about the Croatian national dish. And although we are trying hard to find one, we always conclude there is no national dish in Croatia.

The country is a mix of geographical regions and cultures, and that’s very much visible in its food, too. You’ll find influences of German and Austrian cuisine in the  Zagreb  region and the northern part of the country. At its east, you’ll find traditional Turkish and Hungarian cuisine influences. While the coast is all about the Mediterranean food. And that’s what Croatian food is all about – diversity.

Currency in Croatia

As of 1 January 2023, the official Croatian currency is euro. Croatia is a part of the Schengen area now, meaning there are no border controls with other EU countries. And you can pay anywhere in the country with euros.

You can use a credit card in most restaurants and shops. However, I advise having some cash with you, too. Especially if you’re paying at the market, a cafe, or smaller shops and restaurants.

⤷ Read more : Croatia travel guide – What to do and visit in Croatia 

Prices in Croatia

How expensive is Croatia? It’s a tricky question to answer. The coast is more expensive during the summer months than the Croatian inland. The most costly are the islands and, of course, Dubrovnik .

The price of a nice 4-star hotel room on the Croatian coast is equal to that in Western Europe (it could sometimes be even more expensive). However, dinner or drinks are cheaper than in France or the Netherlands. Still, check the menu before ordering because the prices could be pretty high in some tourist places.

⤷ TIP : My advice for saving some money during your holiday in Croatia would be to avoid small shops at campsites and hotels and go to larger supermarkets. Also, check the menu before ordering at cafes and restaurants because prices could vary greatly.

Language in Croatia

In Croatia, we speak the Croatian language, which is similar to most Eastern European Slavic languages. However, you shouldn’t worry if you don’t speak Croatian (which I believe most of you aren’t) because most people in Croatia speak very good English. A lot of people speak some German, as well. And in the coastal area, the majority of people speak Italian.

You’ll often find menus in English (and other major languages) in restaurants on the coast, but also in Zagreb and other towns in Croatia.

Emergency numbers in Croatia

I hope you won’t need any of these during your trip to Croatia. However, good things to know before visiting Croatia this summer are the official emergency numbers. As in the majority of Europe, the main emergency number in Croatia is 112. If you want to dial the police directly, the number is 192. For a medical emergency, the direct number is 194, and for the fire brigade, it’s 193. For the rescue at sea in Croatia, call 195.

⤷ Read more : 10 Fun things to do in Zagreb in the summer

Hiking in Croatia in Summer

Many tourists decide to explore some of the mountains during their summer vacation in Croatia. They are beautiful and green and look like a great way to spend some of your holidays actively.

However, a few people get lost or even die in the Croatian mountains each summer. As a hiking enthusiast who spends a lot of time in the mountains, I advice avoiding hiking during your summer vacation in Croatia. It could get very warm on some of the mountains like Velebit, for example. It’s easy to get lost, and many of those mountains require proper hiking equipment you probably won’t have with you.

If you still decide to go hiking during your summer trip to Croatia, bring a lot of water, good hiking boots and a fully charged mobile phone with you. And read some of the safety instructions from these guys .

Driving around Croatia

Croatian roads are pretty good, and you can get to most of the main touristic places via some of the highways. However, during the summer months, they could get swamped. My advice is to avoid travelling during summer weekends and instead drive between Monday and Friday.

⤷ Read more : Istria travel guide

Croatia is a beautiful country, and these things to know before visiting Croatia this summer will definitely make your trip even more enjoyable.

Do you have any tips to share? Let us know in the comments below.

Read more about some great places to see in Croatia:

• 10 Things to do in Bol (Brač)
• Best day trips from Zadar
• 15 Best things to do in Zadar
• What to see in Labin
• 10 Best tours & activities in Istria
• What to see in Central Istria: Tips from a local
• Veliki Tabor Castle
• Rovinj travel guide
• 8 Places in Istria for archaeology enthusiasts
• Rijeka City Guide
• Medieval frescoes in Istria
• What to do & see in Pula in a day
• Day trip to Brijuni Islands
• Journey through history on batana boat in Rovinj
• A quick guide to Varaždin

Cover photo by Inera Isovic on Unsplash

croatia , summer in croatia

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Croatia’s Adriatic Highlights: A 7 Day Itinerary

Posted on April 7, 2023 April 16, 2024 Author Priya Leave a comment

• 0 Pinterest

Are you ready for an incredible road trip along Croatia’s Adriatic coast? This 7 day Croatia Itinerary covers the best places to see, from charming coastal towns to mesmerizing beaches and from ancient historical sites to vibrant local culture.

We highly recommend a tour of the coastal hotspots as a great way to experience the best of what Croatia has to offer, especially if you have limited time to explore. While there are amazing inland attractions, such as the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park and the vibrant city of Zagreb , the Adriatic coast has more than enough to see and do during a short trip.

Starting at the southernmost tip of the country to the Istrian region in the North , you’ll get to experience the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes Croatia truly special. 

Unfortunately, if you only have a week in Croatia, you simply won’t have time to visit any of the islands on this trip, as ferry transfers can take up a significant chunk of your day. So, you’ll have to save Hvar, Brac , and the almost endless number of other island gems for your next Croatian adventure. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to see and do along this stunning coastline of Croatia!

WHAT IS IN THIS POST

7-Day Croatia Itinerary [Adriatic Coastal Whistle-Stop Tour]

Arriving in dubrovnik (two days).

We recommend that you start in Croatia’s most famous and most southerly city, Dubrovnik, the ‘pearl of the Adriatic’ as it was dubbed by Byron.

You can fly direct to Dubrovnik from all over the world, including the US, so it’s a great place to start your trip.

There’s no need to hire a car for your trip yet (do that as you leave at the start of your third day), as Dubrovnik is pretty much a pedestrian city. So, for now, get a taxi or bus into the city from the airport and spend two days getting to know the place.

Dubrovnik is a captivating city overflowing with rich history, striking architecture, and picturesque coastal scenery. With two days to explore, you’ll have ample opportunities to discover its many wonders. Kick off your adventure with a stroll around the ancient city walls, where you’ll be treated to incredible views of Dubrovnik and the sparkling sea beyond.

As you meander along the walls, don’t miss the chance to stop by the renowned Buza Bar . This cliffside gem offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea, making it the perfect spot for a refreshing drink.

After that pit stop, make your way to Stradun , the vibrant main street of the old town, lined with charming shops, cozy cafes, and impressive historical buildings. Pop in to see the Rector’s Palace as well, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance building that now houses a fascinating museum.

Image Credit: Luciann Photography – pexels.com/@lucianphotography/

For an unforgettable panoramic view, hop on a cable car up to Mount Srd’s summit , where you’ll marvel at the cityscape and surrounding countryside.

If you’re looking for a fantastic place to stay, consider Hotel Excelsior , conveniently located just outside the city walls. This elegant hotel boasts incredible sea and old-town views. Treat yourself to delectable Mediterranean cuisine at the hotel’s Prora Beach Restaurant , the ideal spot to unwind and soak in the gorgeous surroundings.

On your second day, take it slow and savor the city’s atmosphere. Stroll through the streets, explore the harbor and old port, and revisit any sights you might have missed.

Before bidding Dubrovnik farewell, indulge in a memorable meal at Nautika . Secure an outdoor table for a stunning view of the Adriatic and the old town. The elegant and refined ambiance, coupled with the delicious locally inspired cuisine, make Nautika one of Croatia’s finest dining experiences . Savor every moment as you enjoy a farewell dinner in this enchanting city.

See : A guide to Croatian Food and dishes you must try when visiting Croatia

Head to Split and Trogir (Day Three)

Now’s the time to get that car hired. Have it set up so that you can make an early start on your third day. The one thing this tour does have is a few days with 3 or so hours of driving, so early starts are the order of the day.

That said, visiting Trogir and Split in one day is definitely achievable. The scenic drive to Split may take between 3 and 4 hours, but it’s well worth the journey. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to cross the impressive Pelješac Bridge , which opened in July 2022. This remarkable feat of engineering allows you to bypass the previous requirement of crossing the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina, making your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Split is the largest city on the Adriatic coast and boasts a rich history and a stunning seaside promenade.

The iconic Diocletian’s Palace , once an ancient Roman fortress, now serves as a lively cultural hub, complete with museums, galleries, and delightful restaurants. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan , you’ll find many familiar scenes as you explore the city. Don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll along the Riva promenade, where you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the sea and nearby islands.

Image Credit: Archana Reddy – unsplash.com/@archana_reddy

The Palace is the main thing to see, but you don’t so much visit it as simply be ‘in it’ as you wander the city’s streets.

Beyond Diocletian’s Palace, Split offers a variety of other exciting activities to enjoy. Visit the picturesque Marjan Hill , a lush green oasis perfect for a bracing but quick hike, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and coastline. If you have time, a visit to the Archaeological Museum lifts the lid on the city’s amazing history. Finally, indulge in local flavors at the bustling Green Market, where you can shop for fresh produce and traditional delicacies.

After exploring Split, head to Trogir, which is about another 30-minute drive away.

Trogir is a charming town, home to an incredibly well-preserved historic center recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

As you meander through the narrow streets, you’ll be enthralled by the remarkable architecture, which showcases the influence of the Venetians during the Middle Ages. While there are numerous sights to see and activities to enjoy, the true essence of Trogir lies in leisurely strolling through its streets and soaking in the enchanting atmosphere rather than focusing on a single, standout attraction.

Following a day spent exploring the enchanting streets of these two historic towns, you’ve certainly earned a lavish dinner and a cozy place to unwind. We recommend heading back to Split as it’s so nearby and staying at the elegant Hotel Vestibul Palace , a beautifully renovated 18th-century palace located within the heart of Diocletian’s Palace. Treat yourself to the delightful Dalmatian cuisine at the hotel’s exceptional restaurant, Diocletian’s Wine House .

Sibenik and Zadar (Day Four)

Head out of Split in the morning and head toward Zadar, but stop off in Sibenik on the way. You’ll make it in just an hour.

Sibenik is a charming coastal town. Make the most of your quick stop by visiting the St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and marvel at its exquisite architectural details. Then, wander through the charming old town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and picturesque squares, admiring the historic stone buildings and lovely courtyards.

Grab a coffee or a light breakfast at one of the quaint cafes that you come across on the port side, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. If time permits, take a leisurely stroll along the Riva waterfront , enjoying the beautiful sea views and the town’s serene ambiance.

Image Credit: Assedrani Official – pexels.com/@assedrani-official-177638678/

Hop back in your car and head to Zadar, another city rich in history and culture with its s tunning seafront promenade and Roman-era forum.

You have an afternoon and evening to spend uncovering its many charms. Be sure to visit the captivating Sea Organ, a one-of-a-kind musical instrument powered by the sea’s waves. Sit on the steps and lose yourself in the haunting melodies produced by the shifting tides – a truly unforgettable experience.

As you explore Zadar’s Old Town, wander through its narrow, winding streets and marvel at the historic buildings. Discover the Roman-era forum, admire the St. Donatus Church , and peruse the delightful shops and boutiques along the way. For a relaxing break, indulge in the inviting atmosphere of the charming cafes and restaurants that abound.

When it comes to your overnight stay, we highly recommend the stylish Almayer Hotel in a beautifully restored historic building in the heart of the Old Town. As for dining, treat yourself to a sumptuous meal in the secret garden of the hotel’s Corte restaurant , a local favorite and regularly held to be the best place to eat in Zadar.

Novalja – Party Time! (Day Five)

The drive to Novalja will only take an hour and a bit. Within twenty minutes or so of leaving Zadar, you’ll get on to Pag Island with its unique moon-like landscapes.

Upon arrival in Novalja, spend some time unwinding on one of its many pristine beaches, such as Zrce, Strasko, or Caska . Soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, and recharge for an exhilarating evening ahead.

As the sun sets, head for a delicious meal at Restaurant Bazilika , where you can savor a variety of local and Mediterranean dishes in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Sit on the terrace upstairs and look out over the harbor.

After dinner, prepare for a night to remember at the world-famous clubs on Zrce Beach . Dance the night away at renowned venues like Papaya, Noa, or Aquarius , where you can enjoy music from international DJs and a fantastic party atmosphere, all in a series of incredible open-air nightclubs. What’s on will depend on your time of visit but rest assured that this party beach offers a great night out for young clubbers to those of more advanced years who want to see what the fuss is about! It really is a unique experience.

After a thrilling evening, head back into town to grab some sleep at the stylish Hotel Loza , which offers modern amenities and a convenient location near the town center. 

Breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, Photo by Dharin Chandran

Rijeka and Pula (Your Last Two Days)

You’re going to be tired if you try the clubs. So, today is about a leisurely drive to your final stop in Pula, with a stop-off in Rijeka and Rovinj.

The first part of the drive to Rijeka will take about two and a half hours, but the coast road and view are spectacular, with the shimmering clear sea on your left side all the way. As you drive, make a random stop to find a beach for a swim. Pretty much anywhere you choose is likely to be perfect!

The vibrant port town of Rijeka, Croatia’s third-largest city , boasts a rich cultural heritage and a lively atmosphere. Make your first stop at Trsat Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city. This historic fortress offers panoramic views of Rijeka and the surrounding sea, setting the tone for your day of discovery.

After soaking in the stunning vistas, make your way to Rijeka’s charming Old Town. Stroll along the winding streets , admiring the historic buildings, quaint squares, and bustling shops. Be sure to visit the iconic City Tower, a landmark that provides another dose of breathtaking views of the cityscape. Another must-see attraction is the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre , a stunning example of Art Nouveau architecture.

Conclude your morning visit to Rijeka with a walk along the harbor, taking in the sights and sounds of this bustling port town. A great spot for lunch is Cafe Bar Botel Marina , a lovely café on a boat in the harbor, where you can sit out on the deck and take in the views while eating your lunch.

Hope back in your car, but before you reach the end of your journey in Pula, loop around further to the north to another beautiful town perched on a hill over a bay, Rovinj.

Image Credit: Pixabay – pexels.com/@pixabay/

Rovinj is yet another gem. You’re now in Croatia’s Istria region , which boasts a rich Italian heritage. A seaside haven for Italians since ancient times, Rovinj captivates visitors with its charming old town and scenic harbor.

As you wander through the heart of the city, you’ll find yourself navigating a maze of cobblestone alleyways that lead to quaint bars and restaurants perched right over the sea. These delightful spots offer the perfect opportunity to savor the delightful fusion of Croatian and Italian influences that make Rovinj so unique.

Rovinj’s enchanting Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets adorned with lovely art galleries, boutiques, and cozy cafes. Make your way to the town’s most iconic landmark, the Church of St. Euphemia , which sits atop the rocky town and boasts stunning views of Rovinj and the Adriatic Sea from its bell tower.

After visiting the church, meander down Grisia Street , Rovinj’s main thoroughfare, which is lined with unique shops and galleries offering local art and handicrafts, and pick up a souvenir or two. Finish your leisurely stroll by taking in Rovinj’s picturesque harbor.

Head into Pula at the end of the day and check into the Villa Brandestini . This is a very simple but excellent small hotel right in the heart of the city. Just be warned that you are in the heart of late-night eating and drinking at the neighboring bars, which is great but can be noisy!

Head out to one of the many excellent restaurants in the town squares. A great pick is Bistro Alighieri , very popular with locals and visitors alike.

The next morning you’ve got a lot to pack into your final day.

Pula, the capital of Istria, is home to some of Croatia’s most remarkable Roman ruins , including a beautifully preserved amphitheater that’s definitely worth exploring. You might even be fortunate enough to catch a concert (ranging from modern pop and rock to classical events) during your visit, making for a truly magical experience that aligns with your stay.

Once you’ve delved into Pula’s ancient wonders, meander through the picturesque old town , featuring centuries-old buildings and streets constructed with local Istrian stone. While the Roman ruins may be the main attraction, taking a leisurely walk around the town allows you to fully absorb the relaxed ambiance and beauty of this enchanting destination. 

Image Credit: Derek Sutton – unsplash.com/@dereksutton

To round off your trip, head out to the peninsula and have a lazy last afternoon at one of the many beach bars on the peninsula south of town. We love the quirky Safari Beach Bar at Premantura , but there are loads to choose from. Take your time and have a final dip in the warm Adriatic and get a drink before heading back to Pula to make it to the airport.

Pula’s airport is just 9km out of town. It’s a tiny but well-serviced airport where you can get a local European flight to any of the main international hubs.

What a way to wind up your coastal whistle-stop tour before heading home. So rest easy. Next time you come to Croatia, you can do the national parks and tour the islands by boat!

Featured Image: Image Credit: Marco Mons – unsplash.com/@markomons

About the Author 

Dexter Jones is the founder and editor of the Croatian travel site, Novalja Local . He lived and worked in Ibiza for more than a decade before relocating to Croatia and the party destination of Novalja and Zrce Beach. He regularly travels the Balearic and the Adriatic coast and is an expert on travel in the coastal hotspots of Europe.

To summarize, here is the 7 Day Croatia Itinerary

Arriving in Dubrovnik (Two Days) Split and Trogir (Day Three) Sibenik and Zadar (Day Four) Novalja – Party Time! (Day Five) Rijeka and Pula (Your Last Two Days)

My kids One week Croatia itinerary

Both my kids spent a week in Croatia last summer and this how their One week Croatia itinerary looked liked. You can see Dharin’s photos from Croatia here . He captured some amazing photos of the Adriatic Coast with the beautiful tiled roofed homes and sunset views. I’m jealous just looking at his captures!

• Day 1 Arrive in Zagreb, Free Time Zagreb
• Day 2 Drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park (They stayed at this lovely cabin)
• Day 3 Plitvice Lakes at Sunrise, Drive to Split
• Day 4 Ferry from Split to Korčula K
• Day 5 Drive to Dubrovnik via Pelješac Peninsula
• Day 6 Dubrovnik
• Day 7 Depart Dubrovnik

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Note:  This post may contain affiliate links, partnership or sponsored content. If you purchase an item via one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra charge to you. But as always images and opinions are our own. For more information on our affiliates and privacy policy at Outside Suburbia see here .

I hope you find this one week Croatia Itinerary helpful when planning your trip, it covers some of the best places to visit in Croatia!

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