Croatia is a beautiful country in south-central Europe that is bordered by the Adriatic Sea on its western edges and several other European countries, including Slovenia and Hungary, to the north and east. There are 20 counties within the country’s borders, and you’ll find endless fun and exciting spots to visit throughout. Stop by the capital city of Zagreb where you can learn more about the medieval battles fought there, before traveling to the country’s coastline where no shortage of fantastic seaside cities await you. Check out the beaches of Pula and Rijeka, where you’ll never run out of sandy shores to explore. Read on to learn more about the best places to visit in Croatia to ensure that you make the most of your adventure.
1. Dubrovnik (from USD 21.69)
Much like most of the cities in Croatia and indeed Europe, Dubrovnik has a rich history that travelers are encouraged to dive into. While visiting, you’ll want to check out Old City, where you’ll learn about how Dubrovnik was known to be one of the most advanced maritime republics for quite a long stretch of time. Walking through this historic location, you’ll enjoy seeing centuries worth of beautiful architecture, with notable places such as D’Onofrio’s Fountain and Orlando’s Column. Don’t forget to bring your cameral along and take lots of wonderful photos for memory keeping.
Dubrovnik: Old Town Walking Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
2. Mljet (from USD 113.8)
Mljet is an island on the Adriatic Sea just offshore of Dubrovnik. It is home to a national park of the same name, which is located on the western part and is a beautiful spot to explore while visiting Croatia. Other places of interest on the island include Olipa, which is a lighthouse, and a great number of beaches to stroll along, each more beautiful than the last. For the best experience, be sure to rent a kayak or canoe and explore the shoreline from the water!
National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik
Duration: 11.0 hour
3. Trogir (from USD 43.37)
The UNESCO-renowned Trogir is a lovely place full of unique architecture and wonderful culture. As you stroll through downtown, you’ll find yourself immersed in streets that are filled with both Romanesque and Renaissance styling for your viewing pleasure. Your visit to Trogir simply wouldn’t be complete without checking out Church of St. Lawrence, which is considered to be an architectural masterpiece; it was designed by the architect Radovan, whose history isn’t well-known beyond his creations within the city.
Trogir 1.5-Hour City Tour
Duration: 1.5 hour
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4. Split (from USD 693.99)
Split is a thriving community in eastern Croatia that just so happens to be the second-largest city in the country. Its center is filled with historical significance, so much so that UNESCO has classified it as a World Heritage Site. When visiting this part of the country, you’ll enjoy seeing sights such as Cathedral of Saint Domnius, Diocletian Palace, and the public square of Prokurative, all while knowing that the streets and neighborhoods you’re walking through are over 1,500 years old!
Tip from Content Creator
Some must-do experiences in Split, Croatia:
1. Saint Domnius Bell Tower - a MUST when visiting Split, but not suitable for younger children (the stairs are a little hairy).
Cost - between 7-11 EUR (7.51-11.81 USD) (you can get tickets which include other sites in Split).
2. Diocletian’s Palace. I would really recommend getting here at 6am so you can experience the early morning magic without the crowds. But come nightfall, this place is buzzing! Sit on the steps and soak up the atmosphere with a drink from Lvxor.
3. The sphinx at Diocletian’s Palace (yes - it’s really Egyptian!)
4. The church next to Karepica’s Tower on Marjan Hill. If you hike up this hill to the viewpoint, I would really recommend going a bit further until you find this sacred place.
5. Karepica’s Tower, which you can view from Kasjuni Beach.
6. Sunset at Kasjuni Beach - the BEST beach in Split and a sunset not to be missed!
Did you know that Split was also featured in Game of Thrones? This was the setting for the former slave city of Meereen and where Daenerys locked up and trained her dragons.
From Dubrovnik: Split Private Day Tour
Duration: 12.0 hour
5. Zagreb (from USD 27.0)
No trip to Croatia would be complete without visiting the capital city of Zagreb. Stroll through the upper and lower neighborhoods known as Gornji Grad and Donji Grad before checking out the famous area of town called Krvavi Most. While it is nicknamed “bloody bridge,” you’ll see that the structure is far from being a bridge; it is mostly a testament to the number of battles fought there in medieval times. Other places in town you’ll want to see include Zagreb Cathedral and Strossmayer Promenade.
Zagreb Guided Walking Tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
6. Pag Island (from USD 777.0)
Pag Island is full of things for you to see and explore, from the 2,000-year-old olive trees in the northern region of the island to the lace makers that you’ll encounter throughout the streets of town—be sure to stop by Pag Lace Gallery where you can purchase a lacy souvenir. Enjoy the history and architecture of the holy places in town, including Church of the Assumption of Mary and Church of St. George. Learn about the importance of salt for the island, and check out the area where the salt is stored. Then head over to Gligora Cheese Factory, where you can take a tour and participate in cheese tasting.
Private Tour: Pag Island Day Trip from Zadar
Duration: 6 hours
7. Osijek
Osijek sits as the fourth-largest city within Croatia, so you know there’s plenty for you to see and do here. To start with, you’ll want to check out Museum of Slavonia as well as the historic landmark of Vodena vrata Tvrđa. The Zoo and Aquarium is a fun place to visit that the kids are sure to love, as is Shell Museum and Water World. History buffs will enjoy a tour of Archaeological Museum Osijek and Esterhazy Palace in Darda.
8. Sibenik (from USD 157.16)
Sibenik is located on the banks of the Adriatic Sea and is the oldest city on the shores. As you stroll through the streets, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at the architecture of the buildings in the area. While visiting, you’d be missing out if you didn’t check out the town’s most famous structure, St. Jacob’s Cathedral. The building is unique in not only Croatia but Europe as a whole, as it was built entirely of stone, with no binding material used, over the course of an entire century.
Private Sibenik Sightseeing Tour
Duration: 2.0 hour
9. Rovinj
This quiet little village is situated along the Istrian Peninsula coastline. Walk along the cobbled streets, and you’ll see sights such as St. Euphemia Church that boasts the dominant place within the city’s skyline. Take a boat tour through Lim, the town’s channel that features fantastic natural beauty, and visit Batana Eco-Museum and Romuald’s Cave. Art lovers will want to check out the exhibits at Rovinj Heritage Museum and stroll down Grisia Street.
10. Brac Island
Another of Croatia’s beautiful Adriatic islands is Brac Island, and you’ll absolutely want to visit. The island is best known for Zlatni Rat, also known as Golden Cape, which is a white-pebbled beach where windsurfing is a popular pastime (be sure to try it out!). Stroll through the town streets and take in the architecture, most of which has a rich history behind it. The island also produces a rare type of olive oil that you shouldn’t miss!
11. Rijeka
Known to many as the gateway to the many Croatian Islands, Rijeka is a picturesque city that lies along the coastline in the northern Adriatic Sea. It is simply filled with history, with representative sites including Rijeka Cathedral, Trsat Castle, and Natural History Museum of Rijeka. You’ll also find a number of great public beaches in town, perfect for sunbathing and taking in your beautiful surroundings. Be sure to visit the local planetarium and casino as well!
12. Krk Island (from USD 93.94)
Located on Kvarner Bay, Krk Island is one of the largest islands in the Adriatic Sea. When visiting the island, you’ll want to make sure to stroll through the historic city center as well as enjoy local homemade wine. Stop by the fifth-century Krk Cathedral where you can take in the history of the place and check out the Corinthian columns made completely of stone. A few other sites you might want to explore while on the island include Biserujka Cave and Baska Tablet.
From Rijeka: Golden Island of Krk Tour
Duration: 6.0 hour
13. Porec
Porec becomes quite the popular getaway destination in the summer, so don’t be left behind! This beautiful beach city has sandy shores for you to lounge on and turquoise waters to splash about in. Do spend some time off the beaches, and check out some of the town’s spectacular historic buildings, including the sixth-century Euphrasian Basilica complex and Zuccato Palace. You’ll also find plenty of animals to befriend at the local aquarium and delicious wines to try at Agrolaguna DD.
14. Mali Losinj
Mali Losinj is located on an island of a similar name, Losinj, and features a host of ways for visitors to spend their time. There are plenty of beaches where you can enjoy soaking up the sun or a quick dip in the Adriatic Sea and a water park for those that prefer freshwater adventures. Step inside any of the numerous local museums for a quick education, including Giardino Profumato, Losinj Marine Education Center, and Museum of Apoxyomenos.
15. Rab Island
Rab Island, like many of the Croatian islands, is an ocean lover’s paradise where you can also witness a lot of living history. All the spots are beautiful, with some of the best choices being Paradise Beach and Suha Punta Beach. Take a break from beach hopping, and check out some of the incredible architecture at places like Benedictine Monastery of St. Andrew or Crkva Sv. Petra.
16. Makarska
Makarska is one of Croatia’s southernmost port cities, and as you might imagine, it features some fantastic beaches for you to experience. Nugal has a great pebble beach and complementary deep turquoise waters, while Gradska Plaža is perfect for getting out and enjoying the warm Croatian sun. You’ll want to go hiking at Nature Park Biokovo before getting the ultimate adrenaline rush by taking to the skies with a parasailing trip.
17. Novalja
You’ll find the town of Novalja in the northern part of Pag Island. It is a must-visit location if you’re interested in beach hopping and soaking up the sun. There are a number of seaside spots you’ll love exploring, from the party-beach Plaza Zrce to Plaza Strasko that features on-site eateries and cafes. Some of the surrounding waters are great for snorkeling, while City Museum Novalja is a great place to check out if you want to learn more about the area.
18. Opatija
Opatija sits on the eastern coastline of the Istrian Peninsula and was considered by many to be a popular resort town during the 19th century. Today, you’ll find several havens to visit, including Slatina Beach and Icici Beach, as well as some fantastic architecture to check out. Stop by the Wall of Fame, and take a few pictures of this hot tourist attraction before strolling through the public garden that is Amerikanski vrtovi. Other places of interest you’ll want to see include Admiral Automat Club (which is a casino), Franz Joseph Memorial, and Madonna del Mare Statue.
19. Cavtat
Cavtat sits just a short distance north of the Montenegro border and is perhaps known for its exquisite beaches along the Adriatic Sea coastline. Some of the attractions you’ll want to check out include Mlini and Kupari. While in town, you’ll certainly want to visit Rector’s Palace, which is a Renaissance-aged mansion that houses an important collection of manuscripts. Hike your way through Ronald Brown Pathway before doing a bit of sea kayaking along the city’s coastline. The Mausoleum of the Racic Family and Porporela are also places of interest worth exploring.
20. Korcula (from USD 80.9)
Another fantastic Croatian island to explore is Korcula. Many consider this old town to be the best-preserved among Mediterranean medieval towns—and possibly the birthplace of the famous Marco Polo. The streets of town offer visitors beautiful sights of historic churches alongside breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Stop by some of the local beaches for a relaxing swim or head out to the Pelješac peninsula where wine-tasting opportunities await.
Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting - Day Tour from Dubrovnik
Duration: 10.0 hour
21. Zadar (from USD 16.53)
If you didn’t get to try the cheese while on Pag Island or simply didn’t make it to the island, fret not! You can still sample this local specialty while in Zadar—as well as the region’s famous maraschino liqueur. You’ll also want to check out Land Gate, which is known to be one of the best Renaissance monuments in Croatia. Zadar’s Old Town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with historical sites you’ll want to witness firsthand, including the ninth-century Church of St. Donat and Roman Forum.
Zadar: Walking Tour with Maraschino and Pag Cheese Tasting
Duration: 100.0 minute
22. Plitvice Lakes (from USD 162.94)
The beauty of Plitvice Lakes is something you must see to believe, making the place a must-stop location when traveling through Croatia. UNESCO has named the region a National Heritage Site, and with 16 lakes and more than 90 separate waterfalls, it’s no wonder why. The national park has plenty of trails for you to hike and explore, while boating through some of the areas is also an option available to you.
From Šibenik: Plitvice Lakes Full–Day Small Group Tour
Duration: 11 hour
23. Kornati Islands (from USD 74.78)
A stopover on Kornati Islands is perfect for travelers looking to have a great time outdoors. Telašćica Nature Park is located on the island and is a great place to experience Croatian snorkeling and swimming, as well as visiting with donkeys. That’s right, donkeys. There exists a native breed of them in Croatia, and Kornati Islands is the best location to interact with them. During your trip back to the mainland, be sure to enjoy your view of Devil’s Cliffs that rise straight up from the turquoise waters.
Zadar: Full-Day Sailing Trip to Kornati
Duration: 9.0 hour
24. Pula (from USD 72.04)
Pula is located in the southern region of the Istrian Peninsula and has plenty for tourists to check out. Enjoy a day at one of the local beaches and then be sure to explore some of the Roman ruins located within the city, including Pula Arena and Temple of Augustus. Brijuni National Park lies along a length of islands and boasts a plethora of unspoiled beauty and a lot of archaeological sites you’ll love to see. Aquarium Pula and Bijeca Beach are also great places to visit.
Pula: Adventure Island Stand Up Paddle Tour
Duration: 3 hour
25. Vis Island (from USD 290.0)
Vis Island is full of exciting places to explore while visiting Croatia, so be sure to check it out! Perhaps the best-known landmark on the island is Blue Cave, where you can take a boat tour and plenty of Instagram-worthy pictures. You’ll also want to explore Stivina Bay and marvel at the beauty of the rocky cliffs before participating in a wine tasting at a local vineyard. Other sites you’ll want to see include the lighthouse at Stoncica and Veliki Budikovac, where you can experience cave snorkeling.
Blue Cave and Vis Island Day Trip from Hvar with Lunch and Wine Tasting
Duration: 8 hours
26. Motovun (from USD 78.0)
Motovun is located atop a hill in the central region of the Istrian Peninsula. The ancient city is enclosed by a wall and is known by many for its annual film festival and rich history. Motovun Forest sits at the base of the hill and has plenty of hiking opportunities, while the local church is a great place to check out while in town. You’ll find a lot of local dining options to keep your hunger satisfied during your visit as well as numerous venues to enjoy a glass of wine. Two local vineyards in the area you might want to include in your itinerary are Benvenuti and Fakin.
Full-Day Istrian Inland Discovery Tour from Porec
Duration: 9 to 11 hours
27. Hvar (from USD 120.0)
The beautiful island of Hvar sits just off the Croatian coastline and has wonderful scenery that is impossible not to love. The views are even better when you visit Fortica Castle, which sits on a hilltop above the city and gives its guests a bird’s-eye view of the island. As you might imagine, the castle isn’t the only historic building or area in Hvar—far from it, in fact. Other such places you’ll want to explore during your travels include Dalmatian Renaissance Theater and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Hvar City Walking Tour
Duration: 2 hours
Come enjoy the beauty of Croatia
No matter where you decide to travel in this European country, you’re guaranteed to see only the most beautiful scenery and encounter the most wonderful of places. With Croatia’s rich history and interesting culture, you’re not likely to run out of things to learn along your way, making it an ideal destination for your next fantastic getaway!
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