Croatia is hands down one of our favorite countries to visit in Europe. We’ve visited Croatia 4 times, explored from North to South, and were amazed with its beauty and culture. Croatia is a place that continues to awe and inspire us. Its beautiful coastline is unmatched making you want to linger as you stare out at the azure sea. Every stop when exploring Croatia feels like a postcard worthy moment, dramatic views, clear water, and quaint old towns. Croatia is a place where you can jump on a boat and visit dozens of islands (the country has over 1,000 islands) in the Adriatic, walk through incredible Roman ruins, explore historic castle walls (or imagine yourself in Game of Thrones), and try some of the most amazing food. Croatia has this amazing swagger that keeps us coming back. Plus it is one of the more budget friendly destinations in Europe perfect for exploring for a few days or spending weeks road tripping throughout this beautiful country.

Whether you’re here for the ancient history of Zadar or the quiet magic of Pula, here is how to find your own inspiration to explore the amazing and iconic Croatia.

Short on Time? Here are our Top 3:

Trogir
Plitvice Lakes
Pula

Croatia at a Glance

One of the best things about Croatia to us is that it feels like Italy, but has its own unique character. It feels familiar, but also distinct. It gives tranquil vibes, it’s less crowded and commercialized, cheaper, and the coastline feels more dramatic vs other European destinations. Croatia still feels, in some aspects, like a hidden gem (maybe except for well known Dubrovnik). As you are getting inspiration for planning your own Croatia trip here are some things to keep in mind:

The "Pomalo" Mindset: This is the most important word in Croatia. It means "take it easy." Akin to hearing “island time", embrace that some things may run slower or not on time, and that’s ok. Grab a coffee and sit back and enjoy the slower pace.
Cash is Still King: While big hotels take cards, that tiny family-run tavern or the stalls in Split likely won’t. Keep 20–50€ on you at all times.
The Stone is Slippery: Roman limestone has been polished by millions of feet over thousands of years. It’s like walking on ice when wet. Make sure you have good grip on your shoes!
Rent a Car: We think the best way to explore Croatia is by car (or bus or ferry). The train system is slower than other parts of Europe and it isn’t quite as connected. Plus Croatia really shines in its smaller towns. Go out and explore! Rent a car here.
Try the Squid Ink Risotto: If you are visiting the Dalmatian coast, this is a must try!
English is Widely Spoken
Don’t try to overpack your itinerary: We recommend picking 2 or 3 major cities to base yourself depending on how long you are staying in Croatia. If you think you can see the whole country in a week, you are going to be extremely rushed.

1. Dubrovnik: Castle Grandeur

It’s famous for a reason and well worth the trip. Walking the City Walls at 8:00 AM feels like stepping into a medieval dream. The orange rooftops against the blue sea are pure inspiration. The city completely lives up to its reputation and beauty.

Why Go (The Reality): A few things to note, one, be prepared to walk plenty of stairs especially if you plan on climbing the castle walls. Also, Dubrovnik can get busy… real busy. If you are going mid-day, expect plenty of crowds and tourists. We recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Personally, we loved visiting Dubrovnik in the morning, grabbing coffee and a pastry, and wandering around the mostly uncrowded streets. If you are going in the summer, the walls keep out all of the breeze, so it can get hot, much hotter inside than along the coast, so dress accordingly (think shorts and breezy button down or a sundress). With all that being said, Dubrovnik feels one of a kind with its old town feel, alive with energy and history. This castle town is a must visit.
Recommendation: To escape the midday cruise ship crowds, take the 10-minute boat to Lokrum (the Game of Thrones Island). It’s quieter, greener, and full of peacocks. It is definitely worth a visit and is full of charm. We loved wandering around and seeing the peacocks and taking a mid-afternoon dip the sea, truly a perfect afternoon.
Where to stay: We recommend staying at the boutique apartment 87 Stairs because it’s offers incredible views over Dubrovnik and is only 87 stairs away from the town which means you are close to the action but still in a nice quiet area!
Can’t Miss: Be sure to take this Dubrovnik City Walls and Walking Tour. This will get you up close and personal with the Dubrovnik and is a great way to get to to know the city.

2. Plitvice Lakes: Nature’s Masterpiece

This national park is our absolute favorite in Croatia and one of our favorites in Europe. Imagine sixteen terraced lakes connected by waterfalls, streaming all around you as you wander right through the middle immersed in nature. It doesn't look real. Wandering around the lakes is an amazing nature recharge that will have you pinching yourself as you wander through the crystal blue water.

The Reality: The pictures truly don’t do it justice. Plitvice is everything you imagine, beautiful lakes, gorgeous waterfalls, and incredible nature scenery. It is absolutely a can’t miss if you are visiting Croatia. That being said, expect plenty of tourists and crowds. If you are taking a tour during peak season, be prepared for plenty of crowds taking pictures.
Authentic Advice: We recommend renting a car and driving up on your own to beat the crowds. We recommend getting there first thing in the morning or later in the afternoon. Our recommendation is to take "Entrance 2" and arrive 30 minutes before opening. By 11:00 AM, the wooden boardwalks can be a human traffic jam once the tour buses arrive. Rent a car here.
The Vibe: Pure restoration. Ash got choked up and teary eyed — the beauty is overwhelming and feeds your soul.
Don’t feel like driving there? Take a Tour from Zadar!

3. Hvar: An Island Dream

Hvar Town is for the yachts and the parties, but the interior of the island is for the soul. Think fields of lavender and ancient olive groves.

The Reality: Hvar is a cool hang out that you will want to explore. The beautiful castle, the winding paths along the seaboard and the water, the gorgeous buildings, restaurants, and plenty of nightlife and hangouts. Hvar has something for everyone. The main town buzzes with rooftop bars and chic beach clubs, while the interior hides lavender fields, olive groves, and villages that feel untouched by tourism. The beaches that we visited in Hvar were beautiful, but near the main town, don’t expect sandy beaches, but smooth pebbles. The turquoise blue water is perfect for relaxing and floating while you stare in awe at the natural beauty and quaint scenery. Hvar is a true island escape.
The Vibe: Think chic beach vibe with charming villages set alongside beautiful scenery. While Hvar has a reputation as a party island (and you can find plenty of rooftop bars and nightclubs), there are still quiet places to relax, enjoy the beach, and enjoy a slower pace. We think this gives it the best of both worlds, where you can dress up and be seen or relax by the water with a beer while quietly contemplating the beauty around you.
Pro-Tip: Either rent a boat or take a boat tour around the island!
Check it out: We highly recommend taking a boat tour around the island. This one is a great small group choice that takes you to some amazing places.

4. Zadar: The Sunset Soundtrack

Zadar feels like stepping into a beach side Rome. The beautiful old town and subtle mix of Roman ruins mixed with medieval churches makes this history of this town truly come to life. We loved the mix of old and new, grabbing a Pogača (bread) from the local market, and strolling through the city. No visit to Zadar is complete without seeing the Sea Organ, which uses the waves to create hauntingly beautiful music right under your feet while standing by the sea. Plus, Zadar takes it sunsets very seriously and is well worth the show!

The Reality: The "Greeting to the Sun" light show is cool, but it gets very crowded. Grab a gelato and sit away from the crowds to actually hear the music.
The Vibe: This seaside town mixes the best of both worlds. It feels more laid back and slower paced, which gives you time to wander and explore through the ancient Roman ruins, museums, and old town. The long promenade area is great for stroll any time of the day with plenty of parks and greenspaces. If you are looking for an area with charm, but less crowded than Durbvonik, Zadar is a great alternative or a great place to add a road trip. If history, gorgeous seaside views, and great food are your idea of a vacation, then Zadar should be on your list!
Book a stay: We recommend staying right in the Old Town to really get a vibe for the city and culture. We really liked Apartments Donat because it was easily walkable to the old town and restaurants.
Check it out: What could be better than eating your way through Zadar on this food and walking tour? This is a really cool way to see the city!

5. Pula: Roman Ruins without the Rome Crowds

The Pula Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world. Outside of the Colosseum in Rome, this was our favorite Roman arena we visited. We also lucked out because they were staging mock gladiator fights while we were there, which was a really cool way to experience the arena! If you haven’t heard of Pula, it is a history and photographers dream. This seaside town located just outside of Italy contains incredible preserved Roman ruins, an authentic seaside town, and plenty of local flair. Plus the coastline is just absolutely beautiful. Pula is a hidden gem you don’t want to miss.

Why go: You can’t talk about Pula without mentioning the huge Roman influence in the region and the dominant structure known as the Pula Arena. This Roman arena is one of the best preserved in the world and is a must see if you are fan of Roman history. The town is filled with incredible Roman ruins such as the Temple of Augustus and the Triumphal Arch of the Sergeii. This town is incredible to get lost in and explore. Exploring the town also means discovering some incredible local cuisine (you have to try the olive oil!), amazing views from the promenade, numerous boat tours to visit the explore the nearby islands and Brijuni National Park, lounge on the scenic beaches, or admire the sealife at the aquarium.
The Vibe: Think small compact, Roman and cultural historical city meets dramatic seaside town. The town feels less touristy and more authentic, giving you a better glimpse of the incredible Croatian life and people. The city is laid back with plenty to explore and is much less touristy and visited than Dubrovnik, Split, or Zadar. Plus have we mentioned we really like the Croatian food?
Authentic Insight: Pula is a "real" city, not just a tourist hub. We found Pula to feel more authentic than other “tourist” towns in Croatia. Pula is a vibrant city that also has tourist attractions, which is a little different than Dubrovnik, which can feel touristy and a bit (or a lot) overcrowded.
Book a stay: We loved the Lavender Apartments situated right in the city. They are within walking distance to many restaurants and bars and the Pula Arena. Plus the owners are amazing!
Check out: This Pula essentials walking tour will give you a local perspective and plenty of history about this amazing city.

6. Rijeka: The Cultural Rebel

Rijeka is an edgy, port city with incredible street art, underground bars, and live music.

Why go: Visit Coastal Croatia without the tourists. Rijeka is a working port city where you’ll find museums and galleries, pebble beaches, and where you’ll sip your coffee alongside students, sailors, and city workers — never many fellow tourists. Here you can see real Croatia without the added fuss and crowds. The food was impeccable and prices were great (think €12 for seafood risotto).
What to see: You cannot miss the Trsat Castle. It’s a short hike (or bus ride) up and the castle gives you an amazing vantage point of the harbor, islands in the Adriatic, and the beautiful mountains. Stay for sunset and grab a drink at the bar. In the winter you will see the castle lit up from November to January. In the summer they have cultural events and live music.
Nearby: A quick 20 mins or so around the coast, you’ll find Opatija, a full 180 vibe switch from Rijeka — we recommend experiencing both! Nicknamed The Pearl of the Northern Adriatic and the Croatian Monte Carlo, it’s an upscale and romantic coastal town with a few seaside hotels, gardens, and a coastal promenade that stretches for miles. We loved enjoying local wine and seafood by the water and moseying along the coast simply taking in the views.
Book a stay: We recommend staying right in the heart of old town at the Boutique Hotel OPERA. This hotel has an incredible rooftop pools with beautiful views!

7. Rovinj: The Art of the Aimless Wander

One place we really want to go back to is Rovinj. It’s a pastel-colored peninsula with some of the friendliest people and incredible views. The old town and incredible views from the Church of St. Euphemia are well worth the visit alone. If you are looking for something a little off the beaten path that mixes well with Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy, Rovinj should be on your list!

Why Go: This seaside town is beautiful and full of Croatian charm. The town is romantic, historical, and charming. We loved wandering around the old town. The streets are winding and narrow and offer cool shops, restaurants, and cafes around every corner. If you are a seafood fan, the seafood restaurants are fantastic with some of the freshest catches you’ll find in Croatia. Don’t miss a trip to the Church of St. Euphemia, the most dominant building in the old town and be sure to walk up the 60 meter tower for some incredible sweeping views. It’s not just the views from the town, we highly recommend you get out on the water if you can to see this charming city from the sea. Be sure to wander down to the pebble beaches, such as Lone Bay, to soak in the Adriatic. Rovinj is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit.
The Vibe: Rovinj had some of the friendliest people and some of the best views. Be sure to slow down, wander the promenade, and grab a snack, coffee, or beer along the water. That was one of our absolute favorite things. Expect a small, compact seaside old town with plenty of cafes and restaurants. We found Rovinj to be less touristy than other areas like Dubrovnik or Zadar, but it still has plenty of authentic charm.
Recommendation: Have a drink at Valentino where you sit on cushions on the rocks right over the water.
Gear Tip: This is where a packable daypack is essential for carrying your camera and a bottle of wine for the sunset.
Where to Stay: Stay right in the heart of Rovinj at the Casa Monte, a boutique hotel with sea view apartments.
Check it out: Want to try something unique? Roughly 45 minutes away is the town of Motovun where you can enjoy the unique experience of truffle hunting! This truffle tour takes you on an authentic truffle hunting experience. Note: you’ll need a car or to arrange transportation through the tour company. Totally worth it!

8. Trogir: The Tiny Giant

Just a stone's throw from Split, this island-town is a UNESCO site. It’s small enough to walk in 20 minutes but dense enough with history to keep you for a day. While we loved Split, Trogir is a town we keep thinking about. The city feels like stepping into a medieval castle. We absolutely loved the architecture, the charm, and the water views.

Why Go: If you are looking for the beauty of an Adriatic Coastal Town (like Split), that is a little bit quieter with historical charm and astonishing medieval Old town, Trogir should be on your list. The castles, the cathedrals, and the expansive promenade full of shops and restaurants against the sea make this an incredible day trip or a town to explore for a few days.
The Vibe: Think historical, medieval, with tons of history. Typically fewer crowds than Split (although it can get crowded in July and August - so plan accordingly), this is a great escape from the busier town of Split. Think a little off the beaten path with incredible charm and amenities. We were amazed at how you can witness the different ruling epochs right in front of you. We loved wandering around this town and feeling like we were pulled back into Medieval history. The town is full of charm and scenic restaurants. We really loved grabbing a coffee and wandering the promenade along the water and then climbing up the Kamerlengo Castle for dramatic coastal views.
Book a Stay: We highly recommend staying at the Hotel Brown Beach House & Spa. A rooftop pool, close to the major attractions, and great views!
Check it Out: One of the coolest tours is getting out on the water and exploring the incredible islands near Trogir and Split. We recommend this one where you also make a stop at the blue lagoon!

9. Split: Living Inside a Palace

The city is literally built inside the ruins of Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace. There are shops, homes, and bars inside 1,700-year-old walls. Split is a large city with plenty to do, night life, hiking, biking, beaches, boat trips, history, and stunning views. Split is a place you will want to experience.

Why Go: Matt loves all things Roman history. So for me, the best part of visiting Split was seeing all of the Roman ruins and history. The history of the old town is just something you will want to experience if you are a history lover. Even if Roman history isn’t your jam, Split, simply put, is beautiful. The large sprawling city along the Adriatic has something for everyone, bars and night clubs for that famous Split night life, to family friendly museums and beaches, to romantic restaurants and boat tours along with the Adriatic. One of our personal favorites was hiking up and around Forest Park Marjan. Definitely worth a visit to see some incredible views or find some more hidden beaches.
The Vibe: Big city historical port vibe. Split is a large sprawling city that is great for all different types of travelers and we thought was very budget friendly. Split is a great year round destination but is especially great as a beach destination where you can see the city really come to life. If you really want to experience Split, you need to get out on the water and explore some of the amazing islands easily accessible from Split. We highly recommend Hvar! If you want budget friendly big city amenities with incredible views and history, Split should be on your list!
Book a Stay: The charming boutique hotel Apartments and Rooms Villa Erede is located right in the heart of Split. We loved how close it was while also making us feel like locals.
Check it Out: If you have time, we recommend both of these tours. Check out the Split Tuk Tuk tour for a cool and fun way to see and learn about the city. If you are looking for something outside of Split, then check out this day tour to the beautiful Krka Waterfalls!

Final Thoughts: Why We Adventure

Croatia is an incredible destination part Italy, part Balkan, and all beautiful. No matter where you decide to plan your Croatia trip we are sure that you will have an amazing experiences. The people, the culture, and the incredible sights, Croatia will become one of your favorite travel destinations. Although more and more people are “discovering” (perhaps already discovered) Croatia, there are still parts that feel like hidden gems. While you’ll find some small idiosyncrasies, embrace the late buses or slower pace, there are still so many things to love about this incredible country. We hope that this list inspires you to explore and fall in love with Croatia.

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