Are you thinking about visiting Croatia for the first time? Or researching potential travel destinations and wondering if Croatia is right for you?
Croatia is really one of the most stunning countries in the world and is far less touristy than similar destinations like Greece.
Croatia is perfect for a short weekend break or longer trip. There are so many different places to go, from ancient historical cities, to stunning white sandy beaches and some of the most spectacular national parks in Europe.
Top Reasons to Visit Croatia
If you need some convincing why Croatia should be the next country you visit here are some of the main reasons to go.
• Lots of international transport connections which make getting here easy with low cost airlines
• Warm weather
• Great value for money especially compared to other European destinations like Greece for example
• See ancient Roman ruins and places made famous in Game of Thrones
• There is one of its finest preserved amphiteatres in the world
• Choice of accommodation for all budgets
• Safe cities and towns
• Tasty local food and drink
• Spectacular beaches
• Beautiful national parks
Croatia Travel Essentials
If you are looking to plan a trip to Croatia check out these websites:
• Book cheap flights to Croatia on Skyscanner
• Find amazing places to stay on Booking.com
• Search sightseeing tours and activities on GetYourGuide
• Browse small group adventure tours with G Adventures
Croatia’s Best Destinations
These are some essential places to add to your Croatia itinerary.
1. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is one of the prettiest cities in the country and a must visit destination especially if it is your first time visiting Croatia. Dubrovnik is a medieval town with ancient walls and stunning scenery.
Although much smaller than Zagreb and other cities in Croatia with a population of around 30,000 residents, it has a beautiful coast and impressive historical landmarks.
Dubrovnik has a spectacular seafront with some of the most amazing views on the Dalmatian Coast. The Old Town is so pretty with old cobbled streets, cafes and restaurants and there are photo opportunities around every corner.
2. Split
Split is the second largest city in Croatia located in the heart of Dalmatia. Split is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country with a vibrant port, ancient city centre, beautiful architecture, and amazing scenery. Split is also home to some of the most popular beaches in the country.
3. Zagreb
Zagreb is Croatia’s capital located in the north west of the country. Zagreb is a great city to visit for a short trip or longer, there is pretty architecture, colourful buildings, and lots of cafes, restaurants, shops, museums and parks. Zagreb has lots of local tourist attractions and is very relaxed for a capital city. Zagreb is also a great base for exploring more of Croatia as there is an extensive road, rail and air network connecting the country.
4. Pula
Pula is a gorgeous coastal town and popular with international tourists due to the amount of ancient Roman ruins located here, most of which are in amazing condition.
Pula is located on the Istrian Peninsula and has a scenic harbor, beaches and a rich history. One of the main attractions is the Pula Arena, a Roman amphitheatre which is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers entirely preserved. This is the Croatian equivalent to the Colosseum in Rome, and a must visit tourist sight in the country.
5: Hvar Island
Croatia has lots of beautiful islands and Hvar is one of the best. Located in the Adriatic Sea, it is one of the most popular summer destinations in the country. Hvar has beaches, lavender fields, 13th-century walls, a hilltop fortress and a Renaissance-era Cathedral located on the main square.
There are lots of amazing boat excursions you can take from Hvar too including visiting the nearby Pakleni Islands, which have secluded beaches and coves.
Getting to Hear is fairly easy, if you are staying in Split, Dubrovnik and Brac and then you can take a local bus, rent a car, or take a taxi to Hvar. There are also ferries which stop off in Hvar from other coastal destinations in Croatia and also Italy.
6: Zadar
Zadar is the second-largest city in Croatia after Zagreb, and although not as well-known as other destinations in Croatia like Split and Dubrovnik, you should consider adding it to your itinerary.
Zadar is located on Croatia’s beautiful Dalmatian coast and is home to lots of Roman and Venetian ruins. The Old Town is spectacular and there are lots of photo perfect locations like the Venetian gates, Roman-era Forum, St. Mary’s Convent, the impressive 12th-century St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and the 9th-century pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus.
7. Rovinj
Rovinj is one of the lesser known destinations on our list, and is a small fishing port on the west coast of the Istrian peninsula. If you make the effort to visit Rovinj you will be rewarded, this city looks amazing in photos and has colourful old buildings, cobbled streets, a hilltop church.
There are far less tourists here and so you get a much more authentic experience, there are also lots of beaches, coves and islands to visit nearby. Sunsets in Rovinj are also unmatched.
8. Zlatni Rat Beach
Zlatni Rat beach, also known as golden horn beach, is one of the most unique and beautiful beaches in Europe. Although it isn’t as secluded or deserted as other beaches in Croatia, it is amazing as it stretches out into the Adriatic Sea in a point. This is one of the main highlights and places to see on the Croatian coastline.
9. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park should be near the top of your list of places to visit in Croatia. This destination is a UNESCO heritage site with breathtaking scenery, 16 natural lakes and so many waterfalls and beauty spots.
Plitvice is an easy day trip from Zagreb or from Split and lots of travel companies offer excursions here. 1 day is perfect for exploring, but if you like to go a relaxed pace, or even fancy staying overnight in the park you can easily spend a few days exploring the area.
10. Krka National Park
The Krka National Park is located in southern Croatia on the Krka River. There are so many trails and beautiful nature but the main attraction is the 7 stunning waterfalls.
If you love the outdoors you will love Krka, and if the weather is good bring your swimming clothing as you can swim in the lakes at Krka, which isn’t allowed at Plitvice.
Other Locations to Add to Your Croatia Bucket List
If you have more time and a flexible schedule these are some other amazing places to try to visit:
• Trogir
• Istria
• Vis Island
• Korcula
• Pakleni Islands
• Rijeka
• Sibenik
• Kornati National Park
• Mljet National Park
• Brijuni National Park
Best Time to Visit Croatia
Although you can visit Croatia all year round this country is an amazing destination during summer, spring and autumn. Summer is the most busy time as this is high season with tourists so expect crowds especially in the main tourist hotspots if you visit during this period. The heat can also be intense during July and August. For a more relaxed trip with less tourists and cooler weather consider April, May or October as your departure months.
Is Croatia Safe?
Croatia is a very. safe country, where violent crime is rare especially with international tourists. As a foreigner visiting the main tourist locations you are unlikely to encounter any issues although you should be aware of the. usual non-serious crime like theft or pickpocketing which are the most common crime types.
Croatia Weekend Itinerary
If you have 2/3 days free and would like to visit Croatia for a short break then we recommend staying in Dubrovnik, Split or Zagreb. These cities offer a great introduction to the country and there are lots of day trips and excursions available to book.
Croatia 1 – 2 Week Itinerary
If you are lucky enough to have a week or longer to explore Croatia you really can experience the highlights of the country on one trip. Be sure to include the places we included on our top destinations list above.
