Feast on the catch of the day at a harbourside taverna, wander through a maze of mediaeval streets and go island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast. The exact moment you fall for Croatia may be hard to pinpoint, but with this Croatia travel guide, it’s bound to be quite the love affair.
With its long, resplendent coastline and charming cities – it’s no wonder that Croatia is the country in Europe that’s on everyone’s lips. Over 1,200 islands and a rich history that’s always peeking out from the country’s cosmopolitan culture – you can see why it’s become one of Europe’s fastest growing tourist destinations.
Picture sun-bleached towns, a cosmopolitan capital city, one of the world’s most under-appreciated wine regions and a near-untouched inland landscape.
Sounds almost too good to be true, right?
Croatia may seem like it’s been plucked from a different world – indeed, resting at the crossroads of Central and Southeast Europe, it’s a destination like no other.
Whether you’re looking for the best things to do or details about when to go and where to go when you do, I’ve got you covered with this Croatia travel guide.
Plan your Croatia visit during the shoulder seasons, from May – June or September – October. Expect excellent weather and low tourist numbers.
The low season (November – April) is the ideal time to explore Dubrovnik or Zagreb, while the peak season (July – August) coincides with summer and is ideal for coastal trips.
When you’re travelling to Croatia, stay in Dubrovnik. Its ancient city walls, pristine beaches, and Game of Thrones filming locations are just some reasons most choose it over other Croatian cities. Spend a night at Hotel Dubrovnik Palace.
Next up is the second-largest city in Croatia, Split. Offering a wonderful blend of ancient and modern attractions, set against a rugged mountain backdrop, and meeting turquoise ocean water, it’s a must. Book your stay at Hotel Ambasador.
For an adventure brimming with culture, loads of history, and stunning architecture, stay in Hvar. Immersing yourself in its world-renowned dance parties and club scene is an experience unlike anything else. Stay at Heritage Hotel Dea Hvar.
Finally, staying in Zagreb will never disappoint. Although it’s relatively small, it packs a punch with the best in local cuisine, a thriving nightlife scene, and various free attractions. Book a room at Maistra City Vibes.
Packing for your Croatia trip? Don’t forget…
A no-brainer when it comes to Croatia travel tips is to get yourself the best travel insurance possible.
Although Croatia is one of the safest destinations in Europe, travel insurance protects you against expenses due to illness, injury, theft, or trip cancellations. AXA Travel Insurance is affordable and offers comprehensive coverage.
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Perched in a spectacular location overlooking the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is best known for its picture-perfect walled Old Town.
A city brimming with hidden gems, a number of amazing restaurants, and many standout attractions, it’s easy to fill 3 days in Dubrovnik, although you’ll want to spend more time in this city.
Game of Thrones fans delight in tracing the steps of the famous program – Dubrovnik is the setting for King’s Landing after all. Love the programme? Check out my Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Guide.
Croatia’s second city, Split’s picturesque setting on the Dalmatian Coast is the perfect backdrop to explore its wealth of historical buildings and cool waterfront cafe culture.
It might be hard to pinpoint the best things to do in Split because there are so many.
Home to historic sites such as the 4th-century palace of Roman Emperor Diocletian, an up-scale nightlife scene, and the best seafood around, it’s a Croatian travel experience like no other.
If you’re vacationing in Croatia, it would be an injustice if you don’t go hopping around Croatia’s islands.
Boasting over 1,000 islands, visiting popular options such as Brac, Hvar, Cres, or Lokrum is a must. Or head for some lesser-known ones such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo.
Hvar is the place to head to if you’ve got a love for partying and you’re wondering how to visit Croatia for an unforgettable time.
With its penchant for the party scene, and seeing as it’s one of the country’s most gorgeous towns, Hvar is an easy entry into your Croatia itinerary.
Situated between Zagreb and the Dalmatian Coast, venturing to Plitvice Lakes National Park is an absolute must.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is ideal for nature lovers thanks to its 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 mesmerising waterfalls. It’s no surprise the park is so popular.
Wandering around the spellbinding waterfalls of Krka National Park is non-negotiable.
The park’s landscape consists of numerous canyons, stunning lakes, and the famous Skradinski Buk – a sequence of waterfalls above the town of Skradin.
I hadn’t heard that much about Zagreb before my first visit – so it took me completely by surprise that I discovered what has become one of my favourite European cities.
If you’re travelling to Croatia and have only one day, spend those 24 hours in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia.
There are many reasons why Zagreb is so cool, from its Neo-Gothic cathedral to its mediaeval Old Town Gate and the many museums such as the Mimara Museum.
The Istria peninsula is home to some of the most tantalising wines and white truffles in Croatia, making it a foodie paradise.
Head out on a road trip to the city of Rovinj to see its striking Old Town and visit its Heritage Museum before indulging in delicious peka.
From sun-soaked coastlines and ancient cities, the Adriatic gem that is Croatia will have you constantly coming back for more. Here are a few ways I suggest you try to spend your time in Croatia.
7 Days
Vis – Brač – Hvar – Korčula – Mljet Island
Explore Croatia’s gorgeous islands on a one-week itinerary.
3 Weeks
Split – Hvar – Vis/Korčula/Mljet Island – Dubrovnik – Šibenik and Krka National Park – Zadar – Plitvice Lakes – Karlovac – Istria – Zagreb
Golden-hued cities and oodles of history on a three-week jaunt.
2 Weeks
Dubrovnik – Hvar – Split – Zadar – Krka National Park – Istria Peninsula – Plitvice Lakes National Park – Zagreb
See Croatia’s natural wonders on this 2-week itinerary.
10 Days
Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes National Park – Zadar – Split – Dubrovnik
See the country’s highlights on this ten-day itinerary.
A captivating mediaeval island, the rumoured birthplace of Marco Polo, and one of the best-preserved historic centres in Europe, visiting Korçula is a must.
Highlights include St. Mark’s Cathedral and wine tasting in the island’s little-known vineyards.
Karlovac is one of those lesser-known gems you shouldn’t skip when visiting Croatia. It’s about an hour from Zagreb, and most come to visit the local brewery, Karlovacko, where you can taste one of the best beers in Croatia.
Dating back to the 14th century, the region of Mali Ston began life as a military fortification. These days it’s far more famous for its oysters. Learn about the industry and treat your tastebuds to the best oysters around.
Tucked beneath a set of steps below the seaside town of Zadar, The Sea Organ is almost unbelievable. It’s surreal to hear the music, similar to whale calls, from its 35 tubes as the wind and sea come together.
It can be easy to forget that Croatia was once part of the Roman empire. Dalmatia, as it was then known, was a Roman province and the birthplace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Pula in Croatia serves as a living reminder of this history: with its Roman amphitheatre and smattering of other Roman ruins. These are accompanied by numerous beaches on the quiet shores of the Istrian peninsula.
When you’re travelling through Croatia on a budget, rest assured that there are many ways to experience its highlights without breaking the bank.
Strolling through Dubrovnik’s Old Town or visiting Diocletian’s Palace in Split are both free. You can also roam around the Roman Ruins in Pula at no cost.
Nature lovers can explore Maksimir Park in Zagreb, while you can wander the country’s beaches or go cliff diving without paying a cent.
Lamb Peka – Slow-cooked lamb with vegetables and potatoes.
Burek – Baked pastry with either meat or cheese filling.
Štrukli – Crepe-like pancake with a sweet or savoury filling.
Dalmatian Platter – A platter of prosciutto-style ham and local cheese.
Croatian Wine – Variety of red, white, and rose wines, such as Malvasia or Grasevina.
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