There are many fantastic places to visit in Croatia, from its sparkling Adriatic coastline to medieval towns and scenic islands.
I've been to Croatia many times and have explored most corners of this beautiful Balkan country. Here I'll take you through Croatia's top destinations.
Whether you're interested in exploring historic cities, hiking through untouched national parks, relaxing on idyllic beaches, or discovering unique cultural traditions, Croatia has it all.
Need help planning your next trip? Hire me as your Personal Travel Planner!Often called the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik is one of Europe's most iconic destinations.
Its historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture.
Picturesque houses and official buildings date back as early as the 13th century.
Walking through the city's cobbled streets and ancient fortress walls feels like stepping onto a movie set. Which is why so many movies have been filmed here.
You'll definitely recognise this place if you're a Game of Thrones or Star Wars fan.
Walking along the city walls is a highlight of any visit to Dubrovnik. From this excellent vantage point, you'll enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops below.
The impressive Lovrijenac Fortress, set just outside the city walls, is also worth exploring. It dates back to the early 11th century when it defended the city against Venetian forces.
If you have time, take the cable car up Mount Srđ. From the top, there are sweeping views of the city and the islands beyond. It's especially beautiful at sunset.
Dubrovnik also offers a rich cultural experience with traditional events such as the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Held every July and August, it features theatre, music, and dance performances held throughout the city.
Dubrovnik is best visited in spring or autumn, as summer crowds can be intense. Arriving early in the morning also allows you to enjoy a quieter Old Town, perfect for soaking in the city's historic charm.
Split is another gorgeous and historic coastal city that beautifully blends ancient architecture with a lively, modern atmosphere.
At the heart of Split lies Diocletian's Palace, an extraordinary UNESCO site. Built in the 4th century, it was initially a retirement residence for Roman Emperor Diocletian.
Today, it remains one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the world.
Walking through the palace's narrow alleyways reveals hidden courtyards, houses, cafes, and shops.
Don't miss the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, where you can climb the bell tower for fantastic views over Split.
Along the seafront, the Riva promenade is a popular spot to relax, enjoy a coffee, and watch the world go by.
The city's energy here is infectious, with locals and visitors enjoying the coastal scenery and lively atmosphere.
Hiking up Marjan Hill offers panoramic views of the city and coastline.
Split is also a convenient base for day trips to nearby islands like Brač, Hvar, and Šolta.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia's oldest and largest national park, renowned for its turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls.
It's a paradise for nature lovers, with a network of trails and wooden pathways that allow you to explore the park's stunning scenery up close.
The park consists of 16 interconnected lakes, divided into the Upper and Lower Lakes regions, each offering unique views and waterfall formations.
I loved walking through the wooden pathways and bridges, surrounded by lush forest and vibrant greenery. It's so photogenic - parts of it look almost unreal.
The main downside is that this gorgeous place can sometimes become overrun with throngs of people searching for that perfect "Instagrammable" shot.
It's popular year-round, but you can avoid the worst of the crowds by coming early or late in the day and avoiding the main holiday weeks.
Hvar Island is famous for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches, and fragrant lavender fields.
Known as one of Croatia's sunniest islands, Hvar attracts beach lovers and partygoers alike.
Hvar Town is the heart of the island's activity, with historic streets, waterfront cafes, and lively bars.
For a quieter experience, take a boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands, where you'll find secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The island also offers a rich cultural experience, with traditional events such as the Hvar Summer Festival, featuring open-air concerts and performances from June to September.
Hiking up to Fortica Fortress rewards you with panoramic views over Hvar Town and the surrounding islands, especially beautiful at sunset.
Summer (June to September) is ideal for beach days, but book accommodation early as Hvar is a popular destination.
Zadar is another coastal city known for its ancient Roman ruins and lively, arty vibe.
One of the city's most popular attractions is the Sea Organ, an architectural marvel designed by Nikola Bašić. It uses submerged tubes beneath stone steps to create harmonic sounds as waves move through.
Nearby, the Sun Salutation, a circular solar-powered light installation, creates a dazzling display after sunset. It's a great spot for an evening stroll.
Zadar's Roman Forum, with its ancient columns and stone remnants, offers a glimpse into the city's past. Wandering through the Old Town, you'll find narrow alleys filled with cafes, shops, and historic sites.
Rovinj is a picturesque fishing port with colourful buildings, cobblestone streets, and a charming Old Town.
With its fairytale setting, Rovinj's narrow lanes and lively waterfront make it one of Croatia's most beautiful coastal towns.
Strolling through the Old Town, you'll find artisan shops, galleries, and quaint cafes. Climb the tower of St. Euphemia Church for sweeping views over the town and the Adriatic Sea.
Rovinj is especially magical during the annual Rovinj Summer Festival, which takes place from mid-July to mid-August, bringing music and cultural events to the town.
Pula is a historic city known for its remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the Pula Arena.
Built in the 1st century, this impressive structure is one of the largest and best-preserved surviving Roman amphitheatres in the world. Today, it hosts a range of events, from concerts to film screenings.
Beyond the arena, Pula offers a variety of Roman-era sites, including the Temple of Augustus and the Arch of the Sergii.
Pula has connections with the Istrian culinary scene. It's a great place for truffle hunting and sampling local wines.
Korčula Island, often called "Little Dubrovnik" for its medieval architecture, is a scenic island with historic charm and a laid-back atmosphere.
The island's main town, Korčula Old Town, features narrow streets, stone buildings, and a fortified wall.
Korčula is known for its vineyards and unique grape varieties, particularly the indigenous Pošip grape. Several vineyards offer wine tastings and food pairings.
The island's sandy beaches and hidden coves are also perfect for relaxing.
Korčula is accessible by ferry from Split and Dubrovnik.
Krka National Park is a breathtaking natural gem, famous for its cascading waterfalls and serene swimming spots.
Unlike Plitvice Lakes, Krka lets you cool off in designated swimming areas.
The park's star attraction is Skradinski Buk, a stunning series of waterfalls tumbling into a large pool where swimming is often allowed. It's the perfect spot to relax and soak up the scenery.
Don't miss the chance to take a boat ride to Visovac Monastery. Perched on a tiny island, it offers a fascinating insight into Croatia's religious heritage.
While summer is ideal for swimming, Krka is beautiful in every season. To beat the crowds, visit on a weekday, early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Zagreb, Croatia's capital, combines historic architecture, vibrant street life, and a modern arts scene.
This lively city offers a different side of Croatia, with a mix of museums, charming squares, excellent bars and cafes, and a range of quirky attractions.
Explore the Upper Town, where cobblestone streets lead to iconic sites like Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark's Church, with its distinctive tiled roof.
For a unique experience, the Museum of Broken Relationships offers an intriguing look at love and loss through personal artefacts.
The Grič Tunnel is a 350m-long pedestrian tunnel that runs underneath the historic neighbourhood of Grič. It was built in 1943 as an air-raid shelter during WWII.
Today, it hosts a range of art installations and cultural exhibits throughout the year. It's a great free thing to do in the city.
If you're into craft beer, check out my favourite pub in Zagreb - Valhalla Beer Bar.
Zagreb is ideal to visit year-round, but December is especially magical with the city's Christmas market, one of the best in Europe.
Brač Island is known for its natural beauty and traditional charm, with its most famous attraction being Zlatni Rat Beach.
Often called the "Golden Horn," this unique beach stretches into the turquoise sea, changing shape with the tides and winds.
The town of Bol, located nearby, is a great place to explore Brač's local culture and enjoy coastal dining.
The hike to Vidova Gora, the island's highest peak, offers panoramic views over the Adriatic and nearby islands.
Summer is the best time to enjoy Zlatni Rat and Brač's beachside attractions, with ferries making the island easily accessible from Split.
Mljet National Park, located on Mljet Island, is a tranquil escape known for its two saltwater lakes and lush forests.
This peaceful island is ideal for nature lovers and offers a relaxing break from the more crowded tourist spots.
Veliko and Malo Jezero, the island's saltwater lakes, are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings.
In the centre of Veliko Jezero, you'll find a small island with a historic Benedictine monastery dating back to the 12th century, adding a touch of history to the natural beauty.
Šibenik is a historic city on Croatia's Adriatic coast, known for its stunning architecture and rich heritage.
It's home to the Cathedral of St. James, a masterpiece of Renaissance design with intricately carved stone faces that add a unique character to the structure.
Beyond the cathedral, St. Michael's Fortress offers panoramic views over Šibenik Bay and the surrounding islands.
It's one of four historic fortresses in Šibenik, each with its own unique views and history.
Walking through Šibenik's Old Town, you'll find charming streets, local shops, and hidden squares that capture the city's authentic atmosphere.
Paklenica National Park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, known for its dramatic canyons, rock climbing routes, and scenic hiking trails.
Located in the Velebit mountain range, the park's landscape is rugged and striking, making it one of Croatia's best spots for adventure activities.
The park's main attractions are the Velika and Mala Paklenica canyons, where you can explore narrow gorges and impressive rock formations.
Rock climbing is particularly popular here, with routes suitable for all skill levels. Hiking trails offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
Vis Island is a quiet, remote destination that's perfect for escaping the crowds.
Known for its unspoiled landscapes and traditional Dalmatian charm, Vis offers a slower pace, ideal for relaxation and exploration.
A popular excursion from Vis is to the Blue Cave on the nearby island of Biševo. It's a mesmerising sea cave that glows with blue light when sunlight reflects through the water.
Vis also has beautiful beaches and the charming village of Komiža, known for its fishing heritage and fresh seafood.
Trogir is a well-preserved medieval town located on a small island next to the mainland. Visiting this picturesque spot is an ideal day trip from Split.
With its Romanesque and Renaissance architecture, Trogir's Old Town is a treasure trove of historic buildings and cobbled streets.
Kamerlengo Fortress, a medieval stronghold, offers sweeping views over the town and sea.
St. Lawrence Cathedral, with its intricate portal crafted by Radovan in the 13th century and bell tower, reflects the town's rich architectural history.
Makarska is a vibrant coastal town set against the backdrop of the Biokovo Mountains.
Makarska Beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with soft sands and clear waters.
For a more active experience, head to Biokovo Nature Park, where hiking trails offer incredible views over the Adriatic.
Omiš is a scenic town known for its dramatic river canyons, pirate history, and adventure sports.
Located at the mouth of the Cetina River, Omiš is a fantastic spot for rafting and kayaking, combining beautiful landscapes with exciting experiences.
A hike up to Fortica Fortress offers panoramic views over the river, town, and sea, and reveals the town's historic charm.
In summer, Omiš hosts its annual Pirate Festival, bringing its unique heritage to life with fun reenactments and festivities.
Rastoke is a charming village often called the "Small Plitvice" due to its scenic waterfalls and watermills.
Situated near Plitvice Lakes, it's a picturesque spot where rivers flow through the village, creating small cascades and pools.
Strolling through Rastoke, you'll find historic watermills that have been used for centuries. The village's blend of natural beauty and traditional architecture gives it a fairy-tale feel.
Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit, with fewer crowds and vibrant seasonal colours. Rastoke's enchanting atmosphere and close proximity to Plitvice make it a wonderful addition to any Croatian itinerary.
Varaždin is a beautiful baroque town in northern Croatia, known for its well-preserved architecture and lively arts scene.
With its pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled streets, Varaždin's Old Town feels like stepping into a different era.
A must-see is Varaždin Castle, an impressive fortress surrounded by a lush park. The town also hosts the annual Špancirfest in August, a popular festival that fills the streets with art, music, and performances.
Summer and early autumn are the best times to visit, especially during the festival season.
With historic towns, scenic beaches, and lush landscapes, Croatia is a dream travel destination.
From its famous cities like Dubrovnik and Split to its peaceful islands and breathtaking national parks, Croatia's beauty lies in its variety.
While Croatia's main attractions are well worth a visit, there's plenty more to discover if you step off the beaten path.
Check out some of my other posts on Croatia and let me help you plan an unforgettable trip!
