A Land Full Of Life: 20 Enjoyable Things To Do In Croatia

1. See Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls

Built throughout the 12th to 17th centuries, Dubrovnik’s city walls are a definitive must-see when in Croatia. These medieval walls are remarkably well-preserved, making them one of the greatest fortifications in the world. The whole stretch has a total of 1,940 meters (6,365 feet) and also includes round towers, quadrilateral forts, bastions, and corner towers as additional protective structures. While you can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site on your own, it is still advisable to join an organized tour. Knowledgeable guides will serve as your narrators, giving you a better insight into the old city’s history.

2. Trek to see the beautiful Plitvice Lakes

For an unforgettable nature trip in Croatia, you should visit the Plitvice Lakes. Part of a forest reserve, the area is composed of a total of 16 terraced lakes that are joined by waterfalls. It also features stunning limestone canyons, as well as walkways and hiking trails. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, this protected area is home to a number of wolves, bears, and rare bird species. When coming here, make sure to wear comfortable and slip-resistant footwear. Tours require guests to walk long durations, but the breathtaking views of the clear blue waters, towering trees, and rock formations make the trip worth it!

3. Visit Morske Orgulje

Croatia has a number of unique attractions spread throughout the country. One of them is located in the city of Zadar. There you’ll find an experimental musical instrument called Morske Orgulje. Also known as the “Sea Organ,” it plays music through tubes hidden under the marble steps using the waves coming from the seafront. Locals and visitors frequent this place to enjoy the views while listening to the somewhat random yet harmonic sounds produced by the sea organ. It is also the best place in the city to catch the sunset!

4. Marvel at the ruins of Diocletian's Palace

Almost half of the city of Split is comprised of the ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, a large fortress-like structure that dates back to the 3rd and 4th centuries AD. Built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian, it was originally intended to be his retirement residence. Today, it is a popular historic destination where you will see a cathedral built in the Middle Ages, as well as other churches with Romanesque-style architecture. There are also medieval fortifications, Gothic palaces, and other edifices in Renaissance and Baroque styles. It is a must-see for every history and architecture enthusiast who visits Croatia!

5. Visit the Game of Thrones Museum on the Island of Lokrum

If you are a fan of the popular American series Game of Thrones, you have probably heard that some of its scenes were filmed on the Island of Lokrum in Croatia. The good news is that you can come and explore the place, including a Game of Thrones museum. It is complete with exhibitions related to the production and, of course, the Iron Throne where you can take souvenir pictures. Even non-Game of Thrones fans will enjoy a visit to the Island of Lokrum, because it has nice beaches and a blooming botanic garden.

6. Ride a cable car in Dubrovnik

The best views of Dubrovnik can be see from Mount Srdj, and the easiest way to go there is via the Dubrovnik cable car. It was opened to the public in 1969 but stopped operations due to the Croatian War of Independence. The transport system eventually returned to its operations in the summer of 2010 after it was restored. Aside from enjoying the views from Mount Srdj, you can also go to the Imperial Fortress, which houses different historical exhibits. You may also dine in one of the restaurants or check out the items in the souvenir shops.

7. Explore the old town of Cavtat

Cavtat Old Town, a charming Croatian neighborhood that seems to be stuck in the ancient times, never fails to impress its visitors. Located along the coast of Dubrovnik, its buildings are mostly of the Renaissance-style, while a few have traces of the Gothic style. Mediterranean vegetation like pine trees and cypress trees also add to Cavtat’s beauty. Meanwhile, for swimming enthusiasts, the town has several luxury resorts with access to sandy beaches and clean blue waters. If you have a bigger budget, you can even ride on a large yacht and sail the day away!

8. Enjoy outdoor activities at Marjan

Outdoor enthusiasts visiting Croatia are encouraged to visit Marjan, a hill nestled on the western part of Split. It is popular among locals as an oasis, a place where they go to commune with nature and forget the stresses of the city life. Some of the things you can do here include hiking, jogging, and biking along paths lined with pine trees. It also has cliffs that are frequented by alpine climbers. Marjan’s peak is called Telegrin, which measures 178 meters (584 feet) and offers a panoramic view of Split. Other things you will see from the hill include St. Nicholas’ Church, St. Jeronimus’ Church and the Madonna of Bethlehem Church (Gospe od Betlema).

9. See churches and ancient buildings in Trogir

On a small island near Croatia’s mainland, approximately 27 kilometers (17 miles) away from Split, lies the historic city of Trogir. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, a highly-regarded example of an orthogonal city from the Hellenistic period. It is dotted with Renaissance and Baroque buildings, as well as impressive Romanesque churches. If you want to learn more about Trogir’s long and colorful history, you can visit the Town Museum to view important artifacts. The displays include old books, drawings, medieval armors, and period costumes.

10. Watch a concert at The Arena

If Rome has The Colosseum, then Croatia has The Arena. This 1st-century Roman amphitheater is located in Pula and is regarded as the only such structure that has maintained all three Roman architectural orders. It is also known as Croatia’s most-preserved ancient monument. At present, The Arena is used as a venue for various shows and concerts. Some of the popular artists who have performed here include Luciano Pavarotti, Andrea Bocelli, Norah Jones, and Elton John. If you are into films, the Pula Film Festival is held in the amphitheater every year during the summer. The film screenings are open to the public and there’s also an award ceremony for the country’s best filmmakers.

11. Learn about war photography at War Photo Limited

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

War Photo Limited is more than just a gallery of photographs taken during times of warfare. It aims to educate the public about what really happens during war and also to debunk the myths that surround war. Many of the photos displayed here are works of established photojournalists from around the world. It includes temporary exhibits ranging from the refugee crisis in Europe to conflicts in Central Africa, while its permanent exhibit focuses on the Yugoslavian War.

12. Bike and kayak in Mljet

Mljet is the paradise that everyone is dreaming of; a remote and quiet place, with stunning views of the sea. Spanning a total area of 62 square miles (100 square kilometers), the island is a protected area with almost two-thirds of its land covered with vegetation. The best way to explore the area is by biking. The trails are paved and mostly flat, making the ride easy even for beginners. Another option is to rent a kayak and explore Mljet’s famous lakes of Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (Big Lake and Small Lake). Make sure you pack a bathing suit and some sunblock because its warm and crystal clear waters are very suitable for swimming too.

13. Swim in clear blue waters at Kamenjak National Park

Speaking of swimming, there’s the Kamenjak National Park located in the peninsula of Istria. It is known as a great swimming spot because of its crystal clear waters. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can climb one of the cliffs and try cliff diving. As a part of a protected nature reserve, Kamenjak remains undeveloped up to the present times. During summer weekends, however, it gets filled with tourists excited to have fun in the waters. If you want to have the place all to yourself, you can come during weekdays or in off peak seasons. Meanwhile, for those who are bringing kids, you can take them to the Safari Bar, which has swings and a large play area.

14. Go island hopping at the Pakleni Islands

If you are staying in Hvar, it is advisable to take a day trip to the gorgeous Pakleni Islands. Otherwise known as the Paklinski Islands, they have secluded beaches and coves ideal for diving, underwater fishing, and swimming. There’s a total of seven islands in this group. The biggest is Sveti Klement, where you will find modern facilities and restaurants. Most group tours provide snorkeling gear and some even include a packed picnic lunch in the fees.

15. Taste Croatian cuisine

No trip is ever complete without enjoying the unique flavors a particular country has to offer. Croatia’s coastal cuisine boasts the freshest seafood and also includes some locally harvested vegetables. Meanwhile, the country’s continental cuisine focuses more on meats and sauces. It is also worth noting that Croatia produces the best olive oils in Europe, so make sure to buy some when you drop by the local markets. Some of the best traditional Croatian dishes you should try are pršut (dried or smoked ham), crni rižot (black squid risotto), štrukli (pastry filled with cheese), and kulen (spicy pork sausages).

16. See toymakers at Marija Bistrica

Marija Bistrica is mostly-known for its elegant churches, but it has another gem that is rather intangible: the long-standing tradition of wooden toy-making. This industry has been a source of income for many locals over the years, the skills and techniques handed down from one generation to another. Some of the most popular wooden toy items produced here include wooden flutes and long-necked mandolins. Due to the importance of this tradition to the Croatian culture, the art of creating wooden toys in the town was declared as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2009.

17. Pay a visit to the Museum of Broken Relationships

Instead of cultural relics and whatnots, the Museum of Broken Relationships in the capital of Zagreb exhibits remnants of failed relationships. All of the things displayed in the museum are personal mementos that reminded donors of their past loves. Descriptions are personally written by the donors themselves, some displaying humor and wit, while some are simply heart-wrenching tales. People who have been in the museum say that browsing through the items is a moving experience. More than just a collection of random keepsakes, the museum also aims to help people have closure and move forward with their lives. The gallery only has four rooms, intimate enough for visitors to pay attention to each item.

18. Catch a glimpse of majestic waterfalls at Krka National Park

Nature-lovers will never run out of things to do in Croatia. If you like waterfalls, you can go to Krka National Park, a nature reserve spanning 142 square kilometers (55 square miles). It is home to an array of flora and fauna, including 18 species of fish, 800 species of plants, and 200 bird species. The main highlight of the park is Skradinski Buk, a series of 17 waterfalls located along the Krka River. Visitors are allowed to take a dip, but make sure to bring a pair of water shoes with you for safety. A less popular, yet equally beautiful, cascade you can visit in the park is Roski Slap, which can be reached via an excursion boat.

19. Get familiar with the Croatian wine culture

Kutjevo, the wine capital of continental Croatia, is a must-visit whether you are a wine connoisseur or simply looking for an exciting activity in the countryside. The easiest way to navigate the district is by joining a wine-tasting tour. They often include a tour of the town center, vineyard visits, and meet-ups with local winemakers. There are also multi-day wine tours that let guests stay in private properties near wineries. Kutjevacki Podrumi, the oldest wine cellar in the world since 1232, can be found in Kutjevo. Don’t miss the chance to try their specialty, the Grasevina.

20. Join the festivities at Rijeka Carnival

If you like festivities, you can plan your visit just in time for Rijeka Carnival. It is the biggest local celebration held every year before Lent in Rijeka since 1982. One of the highlights of this event is the carnival charity ball, where famous people including politicians, sports figures, and media professionals grace the event. There is also a main carnival march, where participants wear different kinds of masks and costumes. Approximately 100,000 people attend this colorful event each year.