Exploring Croatia: a Mediterranean gem

Picture Croatia and you’ll likely see sapphire seas over pebble beaches, the terracotta roofs of Venetian-inspired houses and a sun-splashed, Mediterranean-style town square. If it’s your first time to this gem of the Adriatic Sea, get to know all the best things to do there with our beginner’s travel guide to Croatia.

Croatia travel guide: an introduction

Situated in southeastern Europe and sharing the Adriatic Sea with Italy – a tourism titan – to the west, Croatia spent years being long overlooked as a mainstream getaway destination. Over the last decade, this elongated nation with 1,777 miles (2,860km) of glistening coastline has earned its stripes as one of the most sensational beach destinations in the world. It’s not just about island-hopping, however – Croatia is the perfect place to explore a glut of natural wonders from forests to lakes, indulge in water-based adventures like sailing, kayaking and snorkeling, and taste fresh, locally-sourced flavors from land and sea.

The best cities in Croatia for first-time visitors

Research a first-time visit to Croatia and you’ll soon be introduced to its most scintillating sites – the aesthetically delightful city of Split, the grand ancient center of Dubrovnik, and the glorious natural wonder of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Newbies to Croatia could also endlessly island-hop, with Hvar, Brač, Korčula, and hundreds more clustered along the coast. If you’re seeking a more off-the-beaten-track vibe, however, Croatia won’t disappoint – there are many lesser-seen nooks for those willing to travel a little further.

As you set out to plan your first trip, you may be asking yourself: What are the best cities in Croatia? Croatia was once part of the Roman Empire, so many of its cities are punctuated with intriguing ancient ruins and storied town squares, alongside the shopping and cafe-hopping of modern Croatian life. We’ve selected three for you to consider, kicking off our travel guide to Croatia on a high note…

Split – for ancient history and breathtaking coastal views

Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, and welcomes visitors with an intoxicating blend of ancient history and easy coastal life. Its heart lies in the UNESCO-protected Diocletian’s Palace (the Roman Emperor ruled from 284-305 AD) – a sprawling 4th-century Roman complex that seamlessly integrates bustling shops, places to eat, and residential areas within its regal walls. Wandering its maze of streets, you’ll pass treasures like the Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian’s mausoleum) and the Peristyle Square, a stunning open-air courtyard.

Beyond its historical core, stroll the lively waterfront promenade and the palm tree-lined Riva, alive with cafes and offset by spectacular sea views. Split is also your gateway to the Dalmatian Islands – ferries depart here to Hvar, Brač, and beyond.

Dubrovnik – for UNESCO-protected treasures

With its striking medieval walls, enchanting Dubrovnik is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, and is justly protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its immense array of historic treasures. Wander along the limestone-paved Stradun, once the main street of the red-roofed Old Town; admire the 14th-century Franciscan Monastery, a masterpiece of Gothic and Romanesque architecture; or walk the city walls, taking stock of the azure ocean stretching to the horizon.

Dubrovnik has a selection of beaches and upscale restaurants for you to pick from, offering the perfect mix of culture and sun-worshipping indulgence. If you’re after a quick offshore trip, catch the ferry to Lokrum Island for picnicking, hiking and swimming.

Zagreb – for wining, dining, and real Croatian city life

No Croatia travel guide would be complete without a mention of its capital, Zagreb – a dynamic yet laid-back city, with all the museums and theaters culture vultures could ask for, alongside a great shopping and food scene. The cobbled streets and medieval architecture in the Upper Town lead into the cosmopolitan energy of the Lower Town, where trendy cafes, art galleries and indie boutiques abound.

There’s no shortage of spots where you can savor local dishes like štrukli (a cheesy pastry) or zagorski puran (turkey stew made with a spicy wine sauce), topped off with a glass of local wine – just pull up a chair at one of the lively outdoor terraces in the city center and dig in.

Unmissable island-hopping in the Adriatic Sea

There are over 1,000 islands off Croatia’s coast, and 50 are inhabited (including the renowned Dalmatian Islands) – making Croatia one of the most incredible island-hopping destinations in the world. Be prepared for boating, swimming and snorkeling across the sparkling Adriatic – not to mention endless days of sunbathing on its warm shores.

In this Croatia travel guide, we pick out a few of our (and soon to be your) favorites:

• Hvar: arguably the jewel of Croatia and sometimes deemed the Queen of the Dalmatian Islands, Hvar island attracts thousands of tourists every year due to its clear, turquoise waters, pebble beaches and fragrant lavender fields. It’s also the sunniest place in the country, with around 3,000 hours of sun every year – and come nightfall, pulses with the best nightlife of all the islands.
• Brač: just a short ferry ride from Split, gorgeous Brač is for beach lovers, history buffs, and outdoor enthusiasts. The white limestone found here was used for Diocletian’s Palace, but it’s also evident in the picturesque white houses that line the streets. Brač is home to ancient olive groves, some of which are 1,000 years old – don’t miss a taste of the heritage olive oil for yourself.
• Korčula: known as the Emerald Isle due to its thick pine forests, olive groves, vineyards and cypress trees, Korčula also stands out for its impressive medieval architecture, and for being the supposed birthplace of Marco Polo. The main Korčula Town is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the whole of the Adriatic, with its narrow, cobbled streets laid out in a fishbone pattern.
• Lesser-known islands: so many of Croatia’s lesser-trodden islands are unique in their own way. Vis is one of the more secluded islands and a former military base, and boasts unspoiled scenery and hidden coves. Meanwhile, Pag is renowned for its distinctive moon-like landscapes, Paški sir cheese, and UNESCO-listed lace-making traditions. For those seeking real tranquility, Rab boasts rare sandy beaches and a reputation for its Zen quality – head there for a true escape.

Get outdoors in Croatia

The Dalmatian coast gets most of the spotlight, but Croatia is also a wonderland of greenery, with endless ways to get lost in nature. Croatia’s big nature draw is Plitvice Lakes National Park – a place of cascading waterfalls and impossibly clear lakes, linked by winding wooden pathways to wander through.

If more rugged terrain calls to you, head to Paklenica National Park in northern Dalmatia, nestled at the foot of the Velebit mountain range. The steep gorges and limestone cliffs there draw hundreds of thrill-seeking rock climbers and hikers. The Velebit mountains stretch along the coast from Zadar to Rijeka, and hiking trails pull you through dense forests and past blossoming wildflowers, opening out to breathtaking views of the Croatian landscape.

Going off-the-track in Croatia

Croatia’s coastline is its tourism showcase, so travel inland – to regions like Baranja, Gorski Kotar or Lika – to get off the path and experience an authentic dose of Croatian local life.

The Baranja region in eastern Croatia is often overlooked, but with small villages, traditional wine cellars and the wildlife of Kopački Rit Nature Park, it offers an alluring mix of cultural and natural delights. The influence of both Croatian and Hungarian heritages in this region comes through in the architecture, local festivals and tasty food, especially its delicious fish dishes and hearty stews.

Meanwhile in the west, the Gorski Kotar region is a mountainous paradise, full of dense forests of pine, beech and oak trees as well as pristine lakes, rivers and waterfalls. This is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts who crave solitude and to get away from the coastal crowds.

If you’re sticking to the coast, however, Rovinj in Istria is a charming, quiet getaway with a lovely old town; while on the island of Cres, you’ll find peaceful, rugged landscapes and perhaps the rare griffon vulture, making it a must for birdwatchers. The coastal town of Pula, though pulling a good few tourists for its stunning Roman amphitheater, also retains an authentic feel – a place to absorb rich history and coastal life without the crowds.

Unmissable Croatian experiences

Due to its climate, Mediterranean influences permeate the cuisine and lifestyle of Croatia. Live like a Croat by indulging in the food, wine and festivities; in this travel guide to Croatia, we recommend just a few of the best:

What to eat and drink in Croatia

Croatia’s culinary scene is a harmonious blend of Mediterranean and Central European influences, the ideal dishes to eat al fresco. There’s plenty you’ll recognize – pizza and pasta are easy to find, with Croatia’s proximity to Italy – but Croatian culinary favorites are well worth trying.

On the coast, there’s plenty for seafood lovers, with black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, octopus salad, or the famously fresh oysters from Ston (home to one of the world’s oldest oyster farms). Further inland, meals are meatier and more robust, with specials such as pašticada – a rich, slow-cooked beef dish usually served with handmade gnocchi; or ćevapi sausages.

For winos, these dishes are perfectly paired with native wines – a crisp Pošip or a glass of Plavac Mali, for instance – best enjoyed outside in a coastal konoba (traditional tavern). To round off your meal, try a shot of rakija, a potent fruit brandy and much-loved Croatian aperitif.

Croatia’s cultural festivals and music events

Cultural events in Croatia tend to celebrate the nation’s history, music and artistic spirit, all in a fun-filled package. You could catch a medieval jousting tournament, taste local flavors at a food fair, or enjoy world-class music with thousands of other revelers. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is one of the big-hitters, held annually from mid-July to late August. For this event, the historic city of Dubrovnik turns into an open-air stage, with performers of classical music, theater, ballet and dance, all set against the city’s medieval walls and Baroque architecture. You’ll find a similar one in Split, aptly named the Split Summer Festival, if you’re in the area.

For those visiting in winter, the city of Rijeka hosts the Rijeka Carnival, which kicks off in January through to lent. Expect elaborate parades, masquerade balls, and wonderful costumes that reflect a mix of Venetian and Slavic traditions – a great way to punctuate an out-of-season visit.

For the younger crowd, or just the young-at-heart, Croatia has built an international reputation for hosting sun-soaked music festivals. There’s Dimensions and Outlook for those into techno and bass music; Ultra Europe, one of the biggest EDM events in the world; and Fresh Island, hosted on the island of Pag, which is big for hip-hop fans. These events can be disruptive if you’re not attending, so check in advance if there’s a music festival taking place nearby during your visit (or ask your local travel expert).

Croatia travel guide: planning your adventure

Before you start planning your trip, here are some good-to-know facts about traveling to Croatia…

The best time to visit Croatia

The best time to visit depends on what you’re looking for. Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) could be considered the best options. The weather is mild but still very pleasant, main hotspots are not as busy as in the summer, and the countryside areas are lush and green. The coast is still warm enough for swimming and you’ll have more space on the beach than when the throngs of summer arrive.

Summertime (June to August) is peak tourist season in Croatia, bringing hot, sunny weather ideal for beach lovers – though costs are usually higher and it can get crowded, especially in traveler favorites Dubrovnik, Split and Hvar. If you love local festivals, warm evenings by the sea and a lively atmosphere, summer is the perfect time to visit.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more budget-friendly experience, winter (November-March) offers a relaxed and serene atmosphere. There’s a higher likelihood of cold and wet weather, especially inland, and fewer services will be open along the coast, but you’ll enjoy the country’s underrated charm when visiting at this time.

Dos and don’ts: what to know before you go to Croatia

• Do learn basic Croatian phrases: there’s no obligation to know Croatian, and lots of locals speak basic English especially in tourist areas. However, it’s always polite to know a few phrases – such as molim (please), hvala (thank you), zdravo (hello) and doviđenja (goodbye) – or bok is an informal way of saying both hello and goodbye.
• Do bring cash: card is widely accepted in tourist areas, cities and towns, but if you’re exploring further afield or visiting markets it’s useful to carry local currency. Croatia now uses the euro (EUR) which replaced the kuna (HRK) in 2023.
• Do bring water shoes: most of the beaches in Croatia are pebbly, which sometimes makes it unpleasant to walk around, especially in the sea. Bring some waterproof shoes or tough flip flops to avoid injuries at the seaside.
• Don’t underdress at religious site: as in any country, beach wear isn’t permitted in religious buildings, even if the location of the site is near to a beach. Cover up and dress conservatively in such places.
• Don’t get drunk in public: Croatia has developed a reputation in recent years as a bit of a party destination for tourists, but this has led to tighter restrictions over public drunkenness. You can face hefty fines if you’re behaving in a drunken manner in the streets of Dubrovnik, and Split has recently introduced its own fining system. This also counts if you take a drunken nap on a bench (!). Better to keep the partying within local establishments.

Tips for getting to and around Croatia

Most international flights head straight to the bustling capital, Zagreb, and from there it’s easy to access most of the country’s tourist hotspots – though there are a handful of smaller airports (in Split or Dubrovnik, for instance) to transport you more directly.

There is an efficient network of buses and trains to get around in Croatia; buses are the most common way to travel between cities and coastal towns. For traveling within cities, you’ll find trams (in cities like Zagreb) and affordable local buses; tickets can typically be bought onboard or from kiosks. For getting around to secret coastal spots, a car is recommended and a very reliable ferry system is on hand for island-hopping (Jadrolinija is the main company). Cycling is a greener option, if you want to get out into fresh air once you’re on the islands.

Make it happen

If our Croatia travel guide has you feeling ready to plan an incredible adventure, get in touch with one of our local travel experts. They’re based on the ground in Croatia and have all the in-depth local knowledge to plan an itinerary that’s perfect for you.