Over the last few years, Croatia has become increasingly popular, and it’s not hard to see why! This charming country offers a delightful climate, boasting over 2,500 hours of sunshine per year. So if you decide to visit Croatia this summer, you’re in for a treat!
You’ll discover enchanting cultural cities, picturesque ports, breathtaking natural landscapes, and a multitude of islands to explore. And let’s not forget about the Croatian coast, often considered the most beautiful in all of Europe!
If you’re curious to learn about the best places to visit in Croatia and Croatia holiday destinations, you’ve come to the right place. In the article below, we share our best tips for planning the ultimate vacation.
What about a visa?
Most adventurers don’t require a visa to enter Croatia. Citizens from the EU, the UK, the USA, Australia, Canada, or New Zealand can explore the stunning country and stay there for 90 days within 180 days period. Note that if you hold a valid Schengen visa, you don’t need to get a separate one for visiting Croatia.
Best time to travel to Croatia
The best time to visit Croatia depends on the kind of experience you’re seeking. During the summer months, from June to September, you can enjoy warm and sunny weather, but it’s also the high season with larger crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer fewer tourists, pleasant weather, and exploring Croatia’s stunning waterfalls and national parks without the hustle and bustle, consider visiting in spring (March to May) or autumn (September and October). Although it might not be ideal for beach activities, you’ll have a more peaceful experience.
Winter is the low season in Croatia, which appeals to some travelers due to significantly reduced prices and the chance to have popular locations, mostly to yourself. However, it’s worth noting that certain attractions may be closed during this time.
Food in Croatia
Croatia’s culinary scene is a delightful fusion of central European and Mediterranean flavors, thanks to its wonderful geographical location. When you explore the coastal regions, you’ll be treated to an abundance of seafood dishes. However, you’ll also discover a variety of other tasty delights such as schnitzel, pastries, and unique interpretations of pasta and noodles.
Don’t miss out on the regional specialties like Pag cheese from the Kvarner Gulf and the mouthwatering sausages (kobasice), cured ham (pršut), and gnocchi (njoki) from the Istrian Peninsula.
Is the country safe to visit?
Croatia has a relatively low crime rate compared to other European countries. To keep yourself safe from petty theft, it’s best to use common sense and avoid showing off expensive items, especially in larger towns or cities.
The best places to visit in Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park
When you visit Croatia, not seeing its amazing national parks would be a crime. Perhaps, the most impressive (and famous) one is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Located in continental Croatia, it’s a breathtakingly beautiful place with a chain of interconnected lakes, surrounded by lush forests and cascading waterfalls. What’s more, the park is even recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Within its boundaries, you’ll find 16 stunning lakes, with the largest one being the 2.35 km-long (1.5 miles) Kozjak. Additionally, there are many smaller lakes, some of which are charming reed-fringed ponds.
If you’re planning a visit, it’s important to note that entry tickets are limited to prevent overcrowding. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets online in advance to secure your spot.
Zagreb
The best thing about visiting Croatia’s largest city is that it always has something going on. Plan your vacation in winter, and you’ll enjoy the wonderful Christmas markets. Come in warmer months, and you’ll experience the amazing food stands and impressive fountains. The best bit? You won’t have to fight for a place with other travelers. Zagreb is still quite undercrowded, which means you can have a peaceful holiday.
Explore the gorgeous medieval twin Old Towns – Kapton and Gradec. Discover the fascinating museums that teach about the city’s history. Wander through the Dolac food and flower market. Enjoy a refreshing swim in Lake Jarun. As you can see, there’s plenty to do and see!
Korcula
Are you a wine enthusiast? Then visiting Korcula is an absolute ‘must’. Here, you can experience the true magic of Adriatic Coast holidays. Picturesque beaches, delicious white wine, and plenty of sunshine. What else could you wish for?
Vis
When you think of “Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again”, you most likely imagine Greece. But the truth is, many of the scenes were filmed on Vis’s stunning beaches. That doesn’t come as a surprise. Resisting the allure of Stiniva is almost impossible! The natural amphitheater formed by cliffs, with a narrow channel opening up to the sea, is a spectacular sight to see.
The pebbles are pleasantly smooth, the air is crisp, the water is serene, and you can enjoy a delightful lunch of octopus salad in a charming fisherman’s shack.
Brac
Zlatni Rat, situated near Bol on the island of Brac, is the iconic Croatian cape you’ll often see on tourism posters. This picturesque golden strip of land, surrounded by serene cerulean waters, is as stunning as it gets. However, it tends to be quite crowded during peak season, and prices can be steep.
Unless you’re specifically interested in windsurfing, a great alternative to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach is Murvica Beach. It’s nestled among trees about two-and-a-half miles to the west. Another breathtaking option is Babin Laz, located on the north coast near Supetar.
Krka National Park
Nestled in the heart of Croatia, you’ll find the enchanting Krka National Park. This place is a true paradise, boasting not just one but seven stunning waterfalls, picturesque lakes, ancient ruins, and even boat rides.
One of the highlights of the park is the magnificent Skradinski Buk. It’s the largest waterfall in Krka. You can embark on a delightful hour-long loop hike that showcases the breathtaking beauty of this waterfall. However, keep in mind that during the summer months, it tends to draw quite a crowd.
Then, don’t miss the opportunity to take a boat ride to Visovac Island, where you can explore an abbey, museum, and church. For another captivating waterfall experience, make your way to Roški Slap, the park’s second most popular waterfall. Here, you’ll witness twelve cascading travertine waterfalls, culminating in an impressive 49-foot drop.
Rovinj
If you love historical architecture and sunbathing, Rovinj is the perfect place for you! This charming town, located on the Istrian coast, has been shaped by various civilizations throughout history, such as the Romans, Franks, Venetians, and Hapsburg Austrians. It’s like a captivating blend of different eras.
When you wander around Rovinj, you’ll feel at ease exploring its streets and alleys, almost like you don’t need a map. The towering spire of St. Euphemia’s Basilica acts as a reliable landmark, helping you navigate your way through the town.
After strolling around for a few hours, if you need to take a break and unwind, make your way to the pebble beaches or walkways. There, you can bask in the warm sunshine and relax to your heart’s content.
Tips for a successful Croatia vacation
Book well in advance
Our number one tip for planning the perfect holiday in Croatia is to book everything early. Since it is a popular summer destination, accommodations and other services fill up quickly. Even if you don’t love to plan much ahead, this is the time you should do it. Otherwise, you risk being left stranded.
Have cash with you
When adventuring in Croatia, make sure to have cash with you, For tipping, shopping, and dining out, having a credit card won’t cut it. Many places and services in the country are cash-only, so be prepared. Since January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia has been the euro.
Check the cruise ships’ routes
Croatia is a popular destination for both independent travelers and cruise ship passengers. From May to October, there is a significant influx of cruise ship visitors, especially in Dubrovnik, which is located on the cruise ship route. This can be overwhelming and put a strain on the town’s infrastructure. In fact, there is a limit on the number of people allowed to enter Dubrovnik’s old town at a time due to the high volume of visitors.
Instead of skipping the towns on the cruise ship routes, plan your visit wisely. For example, to avoid crowds, consider visiting the cruise ship port cities in Croatia early in the morning, later in the afternoon, or on less busy days. This way, you can still enjoy the beauty of these towns without feeling overwhelmed by the large number of tourists.
Pack light
Whether you decide to settle down in a particular location, embark on an exciting Croatian road trip, or explore various islands in Croatia, packing light can greatly enhance your experience. Dealing with heavy bags while navigating cobblestone streets can potentially damage your luggage wheels. Plus – finding convenient bag storage options on buses and ferries isn’t always as simple as it may initially appear.
Choose the right accommodation
Another reason you should visit Croatia? Its plethora of luxurious hotels! Why settle for mediocre accommodations when you can explore the country in style? On PrivateUpgrades, you’ll find several options. For instance, the enchanting Boutique Hotel Alhambra & Villa Augusta is nestled in the breathtaking Cikat Bay. Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the mesmerizing emerald-green sea and the invigorating fragrance of ancient pines.
Head to Rovinj and Hotel Monte Mulini. As soon as you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a breathtaking panoramic view of the serene blue sea and sky that stretches across the entire hotel. If you’re seeking a truly unique and memorable experience, we highly recommend indulging in the Chef’s table, exploring the extensive Gin Library, trying out Yoga SUP, or simply sipping a delicious cocktail at the Mulini beach bar.
Is sustainability important to you? It should be. Emphasizing the rich history, cultural heritage, and breathtaking landscape of Hvar, the Maslina Resort was created to provide a welcoming retreat for mindful travelers. So if you’re searching for an authentic and locally-inspired getaway, here’s where you’ll find it. With a deep respect for nature, the island’s inhabitants, customs, and traditions, Maslina was envisioned to offer unique experiences and family-friendly amenities.
If you become a member of PrivateUpgrades‘ exclusive travel club, you’ll get access to amazing VIP benefits. Complimentary breakfast, upgrades upon arrival, and hotel credits – your Croatian getaway will certainly be a good one.
Find more luxury hotels in Croatia here.
How many days do you need in Croatia?
If you’re considering a trip to Dubrovnik, a long weekend could do. However, to truly experience the country’s charm, we recommend planning for at least a week. This way, you can fully immerse yourself in the culture by visiting some of its delightful towns and even indulge in a bit of island-hopping along the picturesque coast.
Transportation in Croatia
It’s no secret driving in Greece, Albania, and some other Balkan countries can be pretty intimidating. The drivers there may not be the most cautious and sensible. However, when it comes to Croatia, things are much better as it’s easier to navigate the roads.
If you’re excited about exploring the country on your own, renting a car in Croatia is a fairly simple process. Another option is to take the bus. Once you arrive, you’ll notice that inner-city and inter-city buses are almost everywhere. Not only are they cheap to use, but they are also fairly easy to navigate.
Ending notes
Did you know Croatia was used to film many scenes in Game of Thrones? That’s right. But beyond that, the mesmerizing country has plenty to offer for every kind of adventurer. So whether you’re a city lover or prefer to be outdoors, you’ll find fun things to do in Croatia. If you need help planning your perfect Croatia vacation, get in touch with our team here.
