10 Best Places to Visit in Croatia, it is situated in the Balkans, has regained its position as one of Europe’s top tourist destinations after the War of Independence in the late 1990s. While Croatia has its fair share of medieval cities and historic ruins, what sets it apart is its abundance of breathtaking natural attractions such as the Plitvice Lakes, the stunning Adriatic coastlines, and beautiful islands.
Dubrovnik, with its scenic, medieval-era old town extending into the water, is the star of Croatia’s tourism scene. Further up the coast is Split, renowned for being the location where Roman emperor Diocletian constructed a palace almost 1,700 years ago.
Inland, the capital city of Zagreb boasts neoclassical buildings and hiking opportunities at the picturesque Krka National Park. Plan your trip to this stunning European travel destination with our list of the best places to visit in Croatia.
Pula
Pula, situated at the southernmost point of the Istria peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, has been a popular tourist destination since ancient Roman times. The city’s amphitheater, where gladiator fights were held, attracted fans from far and wide. Today, Pula is part of Croatia and is renowned for its Roman ruins and cultural diversity, making it an ideal destination for travelers.
Pula is a bustling city with a plethora of attractions to explore. The Roman amphitheater, known as the Arena, is the city’s main attraction and is one of the world’s largest and best-preserved amphitheaters from the 1st century. The Pula Film Festival is held here every July. Other notable historical structures include the old city gates, arches, monasteries, a Byzantine chapel, a Venetian fortress, and the Forum, the city’s main square, which is surrounded by Roman architecture and temples.
Pula’s natural beauty, with its rolling countryside and sun-drenched beaches, offers plenty of outdoor activities and adventure. The nearby Brijuni National Park and farming villages are also worth a visit, while the turquoise coastal waters and sandy beaches provide opportunities for fishing, sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving among ancient vessels and World War I warships.
Zadar
Zadar, a city with a rich history and a stunning coastline, has been attracting tourists for over three thousand years. Unlike other popular destinations, Zadar offers a perfect getaway without the overwhelming crowds. The heart of the city lies in its Old Town, which can be easily explored on foot. This historic district is home to remarkable attractions such as Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and ancient churches. Notable sites include the Roman Forum, the circular St. Donat’s Church, the 12th century St. Anastasia Cathedral, the Archaeological Museum, and the esteemed University of Zadar, one of the oldest in Europe.
In addition to the Old Town, Zadar boasts a series of picturesque beaches along its coastline, providing tourists with opportunities for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in various water sports. Two must-see attractions in Zadar are the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, both remarkable man-made wonders that utilize nature to create captivating light and sound experiences. Situated along Zadar’s beautiful seaside promenade, the Sea Organ allows the sea to produce its own melodious music as waves pass through 35 underground pipes. As the Sun Salutation absorbs energy from the sun throughout the day, it puts on a mesmerizing light show at night, delighting visitors with its vibrant colors.
Rovinj
Rovinj, a seemingly tranquil fishing village, possesses an undeniable allure due to its old-fashioned charm and the breathtaking natural beauty that envelops it. Situated on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, Rovinj is an archipelago consisting of 20 islands, with its Old Town nestled on a small peninsula. Within this captivating destination, visitors can explore historic landmarks, relish in picturesque landscapes, indulge in delectable cuisine, and avail themselves of modern tourist amenities.
The Old Town of Rovinj is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with stairways, arches, and captivating architectural marvels. This area is a haven for sightseers, offering a plethora of attractions. Notable historical gems within the Old Town include seven medieval city gates, the town clock dating back to the 12th century, the Balbi Arch, and the grand St. Euphemia’s Basilica. The basilica, an imposing baroque church, houses an impressive collection of awe-inspiring artworks. Other noteworthy sites include the Valdibora Farmer’s Market, the picturesque harbor, Carrera Street with its abundance of shops and art galleries, and Grisia Street, which is lined with talented artists and souvenir vendors.
Beyond the confines of the Old Town, Rovinj is encompassed by breathtaking landscapes that offer a myriad of outdoor recreational opportunities. The beaches of Rovinj are renowned for their unparalleled beauty, making them some of the most captivating in Croatia. The tranquil coves provide ideal conditions for swimming and scuba diving, while the surrounding islands boast natural wonders such as pristine forests, the enchanting Lim Fjord, and the Zlatni Rt Forest Park. Visitors can partake in activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and more within this idyllic setting.
Split
Rovinj, a charming fishing village, is a destination that exudes tranquility and natural beauty. Located on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia, Rovinj is an archipelago of 20 islands, with its Old Town situated on a small peninsula. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s old-fashioned charm, explore historic landmarks, indulge in delectable cuisine, and enjoy modern tourist amenities.
The Old Town of Rovinj is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, adorned with stairways, arches, and captivating architectural marvels. This area is a haven for sightseers, offering a plethora of attractions. Notable historical gems within the Old Town include seven medieval city gates, the town clock dating back to the 12th century, the Balbi Arch, and the grand St. Euphemia’s Basilica. The basilica, an imposing baroque church, houses an impressive collection of awe-inspiring artworks. Other noteworthy sites include the Valdibora Farmer’s Market, the picturesque harbor, Carrera Street with its abundance of shops and art galleries, and Grisia Street, which is lined with talented artists and souvenir vendors.
Beyond the confines of the Old Town, Rovinj is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that offer a myriad of outdoor recreational opportunities. The beaches of Rovinj are renowned for their unparalleled beauty, making them some of the most captivating in Croatia. The tranquil coves provide ideal conditions for swimming and scuba diving, while the surrounding islands boast natural wonders such as pristine forests, the enchanting Lim Fjord, and the Zlatni Rt Forest Park. Visitors can partake in activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and more within this idyllic setting.
Plitvice National Park
The Plitvice National Park is a stunning natural wonder that can be found in Croatia and is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Europe. The park boasts a variety of breathtaking lakes, waterfalls, and lush forests that are sure to leave visitors in awe. The most notable feature of the park is the 16 interconnecting lakes that are divided into upper and lower clusters.
These lakes are formed by natural travertine dams and range in color from turquoise to blue, green, and gray. Visitors can explore the lakes and surrounding area by walking along the assortment of wooden walkways or by boat.
Hvar
Hvar, a stunning Croatian island located off the Dalmatian Coast in the Adriatic Sea, is renowned as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations. Its picturesque landscapes encompass breathtaking beaches, fragrant lavender fields, and flourishing vineyards.
The captivating city of Hvar Town serves as the island’s main hub, boasting an alluring blend of architectural marvels. Enclosed by 13th-century walls, the city features elegant marble stone streets, Gothic palaces, magnificent churches, and a commanding ancient fortress. The town square, one of Croatia’s largest and most enchanting, is encircled by numerous historic structures, including the 17th-century Arsenal and the Cathedral of St. Stephen.
The island’s natural beauty offers an array of outdoor activities and adventures. From traversing the cliffs through invigorating hikes to indulging in the tranquility of secluded coves and beaches through refreshing swims, Hvar caters to every outdoor enthusiast. For those seeking exploration, boat rentals and tours are readily available to discover the nearby Pakleni Islands. Additionally, archaeological sites on the island provide glimpses into Hvar’s Neolithic history, showcasing ancient artifacts. Notably, Grapceva Cave stands as a captivating attraction, showcasing intriguing formations. The charming villages scattered across the lush countryside offer an immersive experience of the local culture.
Visitors to Hvar will be delighted by the diverse culinary scene, encompassing a wide range of restaurants serving Croatian, Mediterranean, and European cuisines. As night falls, Hvar Town comes alive with vibrant parties, lively bars, and nightclubs resonating with live music and dancing.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a renowned tourist destination in the Mediterranean. Situated at the southern tip of Croatia along the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik has a rich history rooted in maritime trade since its establishment in the 7th century. Despite facing constant territorial threats from Venice and the Ottoman Empire, Dubrovnik thrived during the Middle Ages as a hub of literature, art, science, and education.
With its vibrant orange rooftops contrasting against the blue sky, Dubrovnik offers a plethora of sightseeing treasures. The Old Town, also known as the historic district, is brimming with historical landmarks such as the ancient defensive walls, cobblestone streets, magnificent palaces, and breathtaking churches. One must-visit attraction is Onofrio’s Fountain, an engineering marvel from the 15th century. As night falls, the Old Town transforms into a romantic setting with its illuminated ambiance.
Just beyond the Old Town, visitors can enjoy popular beaches like Banje and Lapad, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in water sports. A short ferry ride away lies the island of Lokrum, which boasts beautiful beaches, a monastery, and botanic gardens.
Krka National Park [SEE MAP]
Situated in the heart of Central Dalmatia in Croatia, the Krka National Park is a protected area that boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse wildlife, and significant historical sites. Nestled along the Krka River in Sibinik-Knin County, this national park is renowned for its multitude of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear, turquoise pools.
Conveniently accessible by both car and bus from Split to Sibinik, the national park offers well-maintained pathways and boat excursions for easy exploration. The main highlight of the park is its intricate network of waterfalls, with Skradinski buk and Roški Slap being particularly revered.
Numerous trails wind their way around the waterfalls, providing visitors with incredible opportunities to capture stunning photographs. Some of the falls cascade into natural pools, inviting swimmers to take a refreshing dip. Moreover, the park’s lush vegetation, vibrant flowers, and glimpses of wildlife, including birds and dragonflies, further enhance its natural beauty.
Within the park, visitors can also discover other captivating attractions such as historic monasteries and archaeological sites showcasing Roman settlements and medieval fortresses. Additionally, the park offers a range of tourist amenities, including museums, picnic areas, and restaurants, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for all.
Zagreb
Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia, is a bustling metropolis that offers a blend of historical and contemporary tourist attractions. Situated in the northwestern part of Croatia, this city has a rich history dating back to the 2nd century AD when it was established as a diocese by Hungarian King Ladislaus. Today, Zagreb stands as a sprawling cosmopolitan hub, serving as the cultural, academic, and governmental center of Croatia.
The city is divided into two distinct areas: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. The Upper Town serves as the historical core, where visitors can stroll along charming cobblestone streets and explore ancient churches, towers, and palaces.
Among the notable landmarks in Zagreb are the Stone Gate, which houses a painting of the Virgin Mary that miraculously survived a devastating fire in 1731. Ban Jelacic Square, the city’s main square, showcases a blend of historic architecture and a variety of restaurants. Dolac Market, a traditional open-air market, offers a vibrant atmosphere with numerous stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, and local handicrafts. Along the Strossmayer’s Walkway, tourists can enjoy the talents of artists, musicians, and street performers.
Zagreb truly embodies the fusion of past and present, making it an enticing destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and vibrant city life.
Korcula
Renowned as the alleged birthplace of the renowned merchant traveler, Marco Polo, Korcula is an island spanning 30 miles (50 km) situated off the Adriatic Coast of Croatia. Accessible through ferries from major Croatian cities like Split and Dubrovnik, Korcula boasts captivating landscapes, charming towns, a rich historical background, and captivating traditions.
Korcula is adorned with verdant green forests, vineyards, olive groves, and delightful villages like Blato, which is renowned for its baroque churches and a picturesque boulevard lined with lime trees, shops, restaurants, and hotels. Lambarda, known for its sandy white beaches, also showcases various archaeological remnants of Greek and Roman settlements. The island’s principal town, Korcula Town, is a historic walled town featuring Venetian Renaissance architecture, vibrant markets, and an abundance of tourist amenities.
What sets Korcula apart are its vibrant cultural traditions and festivals that have been cherished for centuries. Among these, the Kumpanija ritual stands out, encompassing chivalrous dances and simulated medieval battles with authentic swords. Additionally, the Marco Polo Fest, a celebration of popular music, pays homage to the historic explorer.
Korcula’s culinary offerings are truly captivating. Although the island boasts a range of international dining options, it is the local delicacies such as succulent lamb, cured ham, and delectable seafood grilled with a touch of olive oil and parsley that truly steal the show. Additionally, one must not overlook the opportunity to savor the island’s exceptional indigenous wines, Posip and Rukatac.
