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Castles, cities, coastlines and more: the 16 best places to visit in Croatia for 2024

Mar 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Jump into the best of Croatia with our list of top spots to visit © paulprescott72 / Getty Images

With 2500 miles of coastline and close to 1200 islands, Croatia 's sun-drenched credentials are impressive.

And that’s before you add its troves of Roman and Venetian-era architecture, UNESCO sites of both cultural and natural heritage, and gorgeous nature parks, mountain ranges, lakes and rivers. There’s such a diversity of landscapes and cultural attractions that a single visit can’t possibly cover them all.

Yet since you have to start somewhere, here’s our rundown of the very best places to visit in Croatia.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

A turquoise ribbon of lakes linked by gushing waterfalls in the forested heart of continental Croatia, UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park  is an awe-inspiring sight.

The park is comprised of 16 interconnected lakes, the 2.35km-long (1.5 miles) Kozjak being the largest, plus dozens of smaller ones – some just reed-fringed ponds. Travertine expanses covered with mossy plants divide the bodies of water, whose startling colors are a product of the underlying bedrock. Wooden boardwalks allow you to easily traverse this extraordinary watery world.

Planning tip: Entry tickets are limited to avoid overcrowding. Be sure to book online in advance .

2. Korčula Town

The sweet little seaside town of Korčula has a set of imposing walls and towers, as well as an extraordinary cathedral, adorned with a downright kooky set of carvings. You can walk every one of the streets of its compact old town, laid out in a fascinating fishbone pattern, in less than an hour. This leaves plenty of time for an alfresco meal under the umbrella pines at one of the restaurants lining the sea-facing Petra Kanavelića promenade.

Planning tip: Korčula Town is an easy day trip from Dubrovnik by ferry.

3. Hvar Town

Summer is when yachts anchor at this tiny seaside party town  and sun-dazed revelers descend in droves to the beachside cocktail bars.

For a step back from the action and superb views over the town, head up to Fortica , the medieval castle looming on a hill above the town. To find a swimming spot, follow the waterfront promenade and stake out one of the tiny rocky bays, or hop on a taxi boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands .

Cloaked in dense pine forests, marvelous Mljet is an island idyll. Legend has it that Odysseus was marooned here for seven years, and it’s easy to appreciate why he took his time leaving. The entire western section of Mljet is a national park , where you’ll find two sublime cobalt-colored lakes, an island monastery and the sleepy, unbelievably pretty little port of Pomena. Don’t neglect eastern Mljet, home to some tranquil little bays and brilliant beaches.

Istria delights with its undulating hills, charming hilltop towns and many seaside spots. A must-visit is lovely Rovinj , a town of pastel-hued facades and cobblestone lanes lined with art galleries, sitting on its own peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea.

Next, move inland to Motovun , a picturesque hilltop town rising from a forested valley. Park at its base and hop on the shuttle bus, or simply walk steadily uphill to its medieval walls for vistas of rolling hills. On Istria’s southernmost tip lies Cape Kamenjak , an undeveloped nature reserve fringed by a string of pebble bays and secluded rocky beaches.

Planning tip: Find accommodation in central Istria – from where it’s easy to get anywhere on the peninsula.

6. Vis Island

One of Croatia’s more remote islands, Vis  was best known as the site of a former Yugoslavian military base...before Mamma Mia! 2 put it on everyone’s list.

The port of Vis, neighboring Kut, and Komiža at the western end are the island's major towns, made up of lovely stone townhouses and seaside promenades. The hidden bays and rocky coves of its southern coast are best explored by boat, especially postcard-perfect Stiniva Bay , otherwise reached via a steep, rocky path.

Split 's sea-facing Diocletian’s Palace is a surprising maze of streets and lanes, a mini 4th-century Roman city chock-full of cafes, shops and restaurants. Pause in the domed Vestibule to listen to professional Klapa singers demonstrating their traditional a cappella style, then hike along the forested paths of Marjan Hill to the lookout for a sweeping panorama of the city and seascapes.

Planning tip: Split’s harbor is the launching pad for the islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta and Korčula.

8. Kopački Rit Nature Park

Kopački Rit Nature Park  sits on the floodplain of the Danube and Drava Rivers, and is one of the largest natural wetlands in Europe. Keen bird-watchers can join a boat trip to spot white-tailed eagles, black storks, purple herons, spoonbills and wild geese – just some of the park’s 290 bird species. You can also follow the 2.4km-long (1.5 miles) boardwalk along an educational trail winding through the flooded forest floor and learn about local flora and fauna on the way.

9. Šibenik 

Set on a bay connected to the Adriatic Sea, Šibenik is a charmer that somehow – undeservedly – falls off the radar . For starters, it has two UNESCO sites: its gorgeous landmark, the 15th-century St James’ Cathedral , notable for its frieze of 71 comical faces carved into its facade, and St Nicholas Fortress, a sea-bound fortification built during Venetian times that’s linked to the mainland via a walkway, granted the World Heritage honor in 2017.

This once carefully guarded city boasts three other fortresses; Barone is the most visit-worthy, thanks to its excellent visitor center and interactive exhibits.

Planning tip: Hop on the ferry for the short trip to tiny Zlarin, a car-free island.

10. Zagorje

In  Zagorje , postcard-worthy medieval castles sit waiting for time travelers. Journey back to 1334 in Trakošćan Castle , whose neo-Gothic 19th-century exterior hides far older internal structures. Learn about the excesses of the Croatian aristocracy in its well-presented museum and wander 215 acres of castle grounds, landscaped into a romantic English-style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake.

Further west, the hilltop castle of Veliki Tabor  offers a trip to the 16th century, with its pentagonal towers and turrets, atmospheric interiors and bucolic landscapes that surround it.

11. Dubrovnik

The extraordinary fortified city of Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most popular destination for good reason. Enclosed within its massive city walls are more than a dozen churches, medieval monasteries, elegant squares of limestone and centuries-old residential quarters. An absolute must-do is the circular walk atop its walls , where you can catch glimpses of hidden courtyards and gardens and sweeping sea views.

Planning tip: Walk the walls first thing in the morning or an hour before closing to avoid the crowds and summer heat.

12. Brač Island

Near the town of Bol on Brač’s southern coast lies the tail-shaped Zlatni Rat , Croatia’s most photographed beach. As astonishing as its shape are the two-toned blue-green waters lapping its strand of fine pebbles. Its eastern side gets a steady breeze, drawing swarms of wind- and kitesurfers.

Looming above is Vidova Gora , the highest peak in the Adriatic islands at 778m (2552 ft), with gorgeous vistas of nearby islands and the famous beach below. For a taste of island life , make a halt at the colorful fishing villages of Milna or Sutivan.

Planning tip: Stop in at the Olive Oil Museum in Škrip to learn about Brač’s history of production.

Set on a peninsula, Zadar ’s compact old town is crammed with Roman ruins, Byzantine churches and Romanesque cathedrals . Dating back to Venetian times, its defensive walls are recognized by UNESCO and have been transformed into a tree-lined promenade tracing the seafront.

At nightfall, the northwest corner of the old town is the stage for Zadar’s celebrated sunsets. The spectacle is set to the ethereal sounds of the Sea Organ , a quirky installation of 35 pipes hidden under stone steps that use the wind to create music. A few feet away is the Sun Salutation , a circular surface of solar panels that transforms into a colorful light show at night.

Planning tip: From Zadar, it's a one-hour drive south to Vransko Lake Nature Park, Croatia’s largest natural lake and home to more than 100 bird species.

Wild, rugged and unspoiled, Cres  has an off-the-beaten-track vibe. Cres Town is a busy port town with pastel-colored facades, while the quiet fishing village of Valun is bookended by immaculate pebble beaches. A hiking path from here heads upwards to Lubenice , a hamlet of stone houses perched on the edge of a 378m-high (1240ft) sea-facing cliff.

Lying at the island’s southern end is Osor, a charming village of stone cottages and rose gardens with a pleasing artistic bent, revealed in the stylized bronze sculptures of musicians decorating its squares.

Planning tip: At Osor, a short bridge connects Cres to the island of Lošinj .

15. Krka National Park

The star of the show at this national park is the Krka River, rushing through canyons, broadening into lakes and splashing over numerous falls and cascades. Stroll along boardwalks past mighty waterfalls and marvel at the multitude of fish darting through the emerald waters.

You’ll also find ruins of a Roman military camp and amphitheater, historic watermills, and two fascinating monasteries – one on an island and another built over ancient catacombs.

Zagreb is made for strolling. Wander along the tree-lined Strossmayer promenade, which winds along the city’s medieval defensive walls to the Upper Town for panoramic views over the red rooftops and church spires of the Lower Town. Afterward, stop off at the open-air Dolac Market , where farmers peddle their fresh produce under bright red umbrellas. Then do like the locals and head for a coffee on Flower Square (Cvjetni trg) to experience Zagreb's cafe culture.

This article was first published Nov 17, 2010 and updated Mar 2, 2024.

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The Ultimate 7-Day Croatia Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning the perfect Croatia itinerary is essential to ensuring you have the ideal trip to this incredible country.

Croatia is becoming an ever more popular European destination year after year as it has firmly cemented its beautiful Adriatic Riviera onto the pages of travel magazines, websites, and Instagram feeds. This incredibly diverse and welcoming country has endless opportunities to offer travellers.

While most visitors set their sites on Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, they fail to dig deeper and explore the seemingly endless wonderful places to visit if you have 7 days in Croatia.

Croatia is a lot bigger and has a more diverse climate than most visitors expect, so it is essential to properly plan out your route before you go.

So if you’re visiting Croatia, these three itineraries are perfect guidelines for having the best trip possible.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Croatia

Contrary to popular belief, Croatia isn’t all sunshine and sea every day of the year and the vast majority of the country really does experience all four seasons.

While winters in Dalmatia and on the coast tend to be mild compared to that of other European countries, the north of Croatia — in places like Zagreb or the Slavonia region — can expect to experience fairly heavy snowfall and average high temperatures that linger just above freezing.

It is also worth noting that a good majority of Croatia isn’t perennially blessed with endless sunny days. Zagreb, for instance, is actually quite wet and it is best to expect at least a few rainy days on your trip along the coast as well — depending on the season you are travelling.

In the most popular coastal cities in Croatia — like Split and Dubrovnik — you can expect a significant amount of rain in the winter months.

If you do want to avoid the hordes of tourist crowds, then winter can be an appealing option, especially if you’re not one to enjoy lazy beach and swimming days. It is worth knowing that many restaurants and tourist attractions are closed in the winter due to low demand.

The summer months of late June-August are the most popular times to travel to Croatia and if you plan to hit the most visited cities in the country, you can expect them to be very crowded. Temperatures can reach well over 30ºC (86ºF) on the coast and expect it to be even hotter in the capital.

Prices also mimic the high temperatures in the Croatian summer with everything from accommodation to restaurant costs inflated to take advantage of the tourism revenue. Places to stay tend to book out early, especially in July and August, so it is essential that if you’re planning a trip to Croatia , you plan well in advance if you are set on travelling in peak season.

Ideally, the best time of year to travel to Croatia is in the shoulder seasons directly surrounding summer. May and September have some of the best weather in Europe, where you can expect warm temperatures averaging around 25ºC (77ºF) and for the majority of your days to be sunny.

Most seasonal restaurants and tourist attractions will begin to open their doors again through the months of March-October so you will be able to see and eat everything that you could in the summer with a fraction of the crowds.

Getting Around Croatia

If you are only planning a one-week Croatia itinerary and want to make the most of your time, you need to be able to optimise your transport so you spend more time sightseeing and less time in transit.

If you want to rely on public transport when getting from point A to B in Croatia, then you’re going to need to get to know the bus network. Like many Balkan countries, Croatia doesn’t have an advanced train system and the majority of inter-city transport is dominated by the humble bus.

Bus connections between major cities are frequent, but they can book out early during the summer months. There are a number of different transit companies to choose from, some of which allow you to book tickets online.

Others might require you to buy a bus ticket at the station. You can check bus timetables and routes throughout Croatia on Busbud . Another thing to keep in mind is that most buses do charge to put luggage into hold — usually around €1-2.

If you can and your Croatia budget allows for it, a far better transportation option for one week in Croatia is to rent a car.

This will allow you to be more flexible with your departure times and reach places that aren’t as well-served by the bus network. Driving in Croatia is easy and going on a Croatia road trip is one of the best ways to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time.

If you only have a week, you are going to want to see as much of the country as you can and it isn’t always possible to do with irregular bus timetables and long travel times.

You can browse Rentalcars.com which compares car hire prices across major companies. Alternatively, check out Localrent which can connect you with smaller companies or individuals renting their cars.

If you’re flying into Croatia and are not hiring a car, you can organise a private transfer from the airport here.

Classic 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

If it is your first time visiting Croatia, then this is the one-week itinerary you should follow. It covers all of the main tourist highlights of Croatia with possible day-trip options to nearby national parks and beautiful islands.

We do recommend renting a car for this route, however, if you want to save money, a car is not necessary for the Zagreb portion of this trip. You can go ahead and rent a car when leaving the capital and save a couple of days of fare and parking fees.

Day 1 – Zagreb

The most logical place to start this route through Croatia is in the vibrant capital of Zagreb . For many years, tourists have treated Zagreb as merely a place to fly into before making a beeline for the coast — maybe spending a night there if their flight arrives late and leaving first thing in the morning.

However, in recent years, Zagreb has really come into its own as a tourist destination, which is why we recommend spending two days in the Croatian capital.

Zagreb has a gritty, artistic feel to it and has a number of interesting things to do. Take a walking tour of the city to get your bearings and explore some of the main historical sites like St Mark’s Church, the Stone Gate, the Zagreb Cathedral and strolling through the lush Green Horseshoe Park.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Casablanca Boutique B&B   – This boutique bed and breakfast is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, it is located very close to the city centre and all of the main tourist attractions, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Hostel Mali Mrak – This locally-run hostel is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They have an incredibly friendly staff, great common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers and have both dorms and private rooms available. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zagreb

Day 2 – Zagreb

Though you can certainly see the majority of the highlights of Zagreb within the confines of one day, spending two days in the city is ideal if you want to go at a slower pace and get your bearings in Croatia.

If you spent your first day in the Old Town there are plenty of other places you can visit on the second day.

For instance, consider hopping on a bus to see the massive and sprawling Mirogoj Cemetery. Or, if you’re a craft beer fan, there are plenty of great brewpubs to hop between. Those who love quirky museums will also like the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Zagreb is also an excellent place to educate yourself on the Yugoslav Wars, which were particularly devastating here. Many people tend to forget the horrific conflict of the 1990s when visiting Croatia, but it is important to see how far the nation has come in the past 30 years.

Two days in Zagreb is a perfect amount of time to spend in order to really get a feel for the city and will probably lend to you longing to return one day!

Day 3 – Plitvice Lakes National Park

The iconic and gorgeous Plitvice Lakes National Park is the second-most visited attraction in Croatia (after Dubrovnik) and it is for good reason — it is absolutely spectacular.

This massive network of lakes and waterfalls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is enough to charm even the most ardent of city people and visiting is a highlight of any trip to Croatia. While it can get very busy in the summer months, it is still an unmissable area to explore in Croatia.

While many people visit Plitvice as a day trip from Zagreb or Split, we recommend spending a night near the park so you can get there as early as possible, avoid the inevitable tourist crowds, and spend as much time as you can in the park.

You need at least four hours to see the majority of the park, but you can easily spend longer. Because of this, we recommend leaving Zagreb in the evening, spending the night near the park, visiting Plitvice Lakes in the morning and then driving onto your next destination by the afternoon or evening.

If you don’t have a car, you can organise a guided tour  from Zagreb or a group tour that includes transport from Zagreb to Split.

Where to Stay in Plitvice Lakes

House Turkalj — This cosy family-run guesthouse is an excellent affordable option for those looking for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a handful of private ensuite rooms available along with self-catering facilities. They also offer complimentary beer and rakija.

Falling Lakes Hostel — This is a great option for backpackers, budget and solo travellers who want a place near Plitvice Lakes. They offer both dorm and private rooms, self-catering facilities, and will arrange a shuttle to the entrance of the lakes should you not have your own vehicle.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Plitvice Lakes!

Day 4 – Split

After spending two days of your week in Croatia soaking up the arts, culture, and nightlife of Zagreb and another day at the incredible Plitvice Lakes National Park, it’s time to head to the coast and Croatia’s second-largest city of Split.

The drive to Split is absolutely beautiful and there are lots of places in Croatia to stop and enjoy along the way, so make sure to spend your day taking advantage of seeing all there is on the Croatian coast.

Spend the next day taking advantage of all of the great things to do in Split . Walk around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the seaside promenade, enjoy a glass of Croatian wine at an outdoor cafe, or take a hike up Marjan Hill.

Where to Stay in Split

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites – If you’re looking for a little bit more luxury, then you can’t go wrong with this boutique hotel. They have a number of spacious and comfortable rooms on offer, are located close to both the centre of Split and within walking distance of the beach and have breakfast included and a restaurant on site.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  – This hostel is a great option if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They are centrally located, have excellent ratings, and offer both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Split

Day 5 – Split

On your second day, consider taking one of the many potential day trips from Split . You could head to the towns of Sibenik or Trogir (the latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the beautiful Krka National Park, or even make a trip to one of the islands off the coast — enjoy the laid-back nature of Brac or the lavender fields of Hvar for a day!

If you choose to visit Krka National Park, get an early start to beat the crowds – it’s located about an hour from Split. Here you can enjoy gorgeous lakes and waterfalls, swimming spots and nice walking trails.

The town of Sibenik is only about fifteen minutes from Krka, so it’s easy to also visit here. It’s small, but absolutely charming with great seaside views and plenty of winding, cobbled streets to get lost on.

If you want a jam-packed day, you could also tack on the town of Trogir on your way back to Split. This is an historic town on its own island (there is a bridge to get there) that is an absolute joy to explore.

Alternatively, consider taking a day trip to an island like Hvar or Brac. Brac is closer to Split but is a bit more sleepy – though it is home to the iconic Zlatni Rat Beach.

Hvar is a bit further away, but fast passenger ferries from Split can allow you to spend the day exploring the charming Hvar Town and swimming around the Pakleni islands.

If you have more than a week to dedicate to this particular itinerary, this is the time where it makes sense to spend more time. Spend an extra day or two in Split, for instance, and you can easily go on all of these day trips. If you have longer, head to an island like Hvar or Korcula for a few days before moving on to Dubrovnik.

Day 6 – Dubrovnik

The most popular place to visit in Croatia thanks in no part to  Game of Thrones , no trip to Croatia that covers the tourist highlights of the country would be complete without including the city of Dubrovnik .

Dubrovnik is the premier place to visit in Croatia and the image of its beautiful city walls is what automatically fills people’s imaginations when thinking of this Adriatic country. Keep in mind that Dubrovnik is small, can be very crowded, and is noticeably more expensive than anywhere else in the country.

That is not to say it’s not absolutely gorgeous and it is absolutely worth spending time in the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting Croatia. We recommend spending at least two days in Dubrovnik, one where you can stroll along the well-trodden tourist sites and another where you can try to explore outside of the Old Town.

Spend your first day in Dubrovnik taking in the highlights of the Old Town. Get an early start to beat the crowds on the City Walls and then continue on to visit the Pile Gate, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Rector’s Palace.

There are lots of day trippers and cruise ship crowds here, so the crowds can lessen significantly in the evenings. Take this time to enjoy a quieter side of Dubrovnik.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Boutique Hotel Porto   – Located directly in the Old Town, this boutique hotel is a great option if you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your time in Croatia. They have a range of clean, comfortable rooms on offer and it comes very highly rated. 

Old Town Hostel   — As the name suggests, this boutique hostel is located directly in Dubrovnik’s iconic Old Town. It is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city and has both dorm beds and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Dubrovnik

Day 7 – Dubrovnik

On your final day, you can use it as an opportunity to explore more of Dubrovnik and get a bit beyond the old town.

You could spend your day lounging on one of Dubrovnik’s beaches or, perhaps, visit lovely Lokrum Island located just a few hundred metres from the shores of the old town.

You can grab a ferry to Lokrun Island and reach it in about ten minutes from the centre of Dubrovnik. It is a nature reserve known for its lush greenery. There are also plenty of lovely, secluded swimming spots for those who want to splash in the water!

Dubrovnik is also a great base to take a few day trips. It is incredibly possible to visit the beautiful city of Kotor, Montenegro or marvel at the Stari Most in divided Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina . If you spend one day exploring the old town, it is totally possible to tack on a visit to either of the cities on the second day.

7-Day Adriatic Coast Itinerary

If you’re interested in spending time on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and want to see the highlights that lie in the cities, towns and islands of the Adriatic Sea, then this is the route for you.

It skips some of the inland attractions and concentrates solely on the coastal region. Keep in mind that this route is much easier to execute if you have your own vehicle.

Day 1 – Zadar

Begin your trip in the lovely town of Zadar . This historic town is located in the centre of the Dalmatia region and is actually home to its own international airport, so you can easily get here from plenty of other destinations across Europe.

Zadar is small but there is a lot to see and do in the town and it’s worth spending at least an entire day exploring. The pedestrianised old town doesn’t attract the crowds often seen in cities like Split and Dubrovnik.

There is a lovely seaside promenade complete with a delightful Sea Organ – a series of steps that plays music as the waves crash against it. There are also Roman ruins and beautiful churches to take in, along with swimming spots all along the promenade. There are also plenty of great cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Art Hotel Kalelarga   — This boutique hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and free breakfast in the morning in a fantastic Old Town Zadar location. It is one of the highest-rated hotels in Zadar and it is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury. 

Downtown Boutique Hostel  — This small boutique hostel is located in the centre of Old Town Zadar. They have a number of room options available — from dorm beds to privates  — and a friendly and helpful staff. This is a great budget option. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zadar

Day 2 – Krka National Park & Šibenik

On your second day, plan to make your way to Split as your final destination. However, there are a couple of excellent places you can visit within easy reach of Zadar.

Start your day with a visit to Krka National Park. Though not located directly on the coast, this gorgeous natural area is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in this part of Croatia. Within the park, you will find beautiful waterfalls, swimming areas and walking trails.

Only about fifteen minutes driving from Krka, you will find the lovely town of Sibenik, which is our second destination for the day.

This is another excellently-preserved old Croatian town and it is a true delight to wander through. It attracts even fewer crowds than Zadar, so you can certainly have some of the quiet, pedestrianised streets to yourself.

From Sibenik, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Split, your destination for the next two nights.

Day 3 – Split

Your third day of this route should be spent exploring the highlights of the city of Split. Though it’s Croatia’s second-largest city, you can easily explore the compact old town in the confines of a single day.

Because you’ve spent the night here, you can beat the crowds in Diocletian’s Palace and get an early start!

You can also take the time to hike up Marjan Hill where you can get incredible views of the city below and of the surrounding islands.

Day 4 – Hvar

Try to get an early start and hop on the earliest ferry you can to get to Hvar , one of the most popular Croatian islands to visit. Car ferries from Split arrive in the port in the town of Stari Grad, which is only about thirty minutes from the far more popular Hvar Town.

Spend your first day exploring the sites in and around Hvar Town. Wander the delightful Old Town and then take the time to lounge on the beach – Pokonji Dol Beach is an excellent option!

Alternatively, you can also join a boat tour or hop on a water taxi to the lovely Pakleni Islands, little islands that lie just off the coast from Hvar Town. These are great places to swim and sunbathe.

Hvar Town is also known for its nightlife. So, if it interests you, you can party into the wee hours of the night at one of the many beach clubs. Those looking for a quieter stay will find plenty of other great places to stay elsewhere on the island .

Where to Stay in Hvar

Pharos Hvar Hotel – Located in Hvar Town, this 3-star hotel is a good option on the island. They have a number of comfortable rooms to choose from and a great location for exploring the island and the town.

Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – This seaside hotel is a great luxury option in Hvar Town. They have an inviting swimming pool, an on-site spa and plenty of gorgeous rooms for guests to choose from.

Hostel Villa Skansi – This hostel is great for budget travellers looking to enjoy Hvar’s nightlife. They have a number of different rooms to choose from and social events organised each evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hvar hotels!

Day 5 – Hvar

On your second day in Hvar, continue to explore this beautiful and tranquil island! Your second day should be spent on the gorgeous Dubovica Beach before wandering over to explore cool and quiet Stari Grad.

You can stop off at some iconic Lavender Farms before wandering over to Vrboska – a town that has a lot of charm but not a lot of tourists. It’s a great place to sample some local wines and get a great meal!

Day 6 – Korčula 

Day six of this itinerary sees you going to another gorgeous Croatian island – Korcula . However, if you’ve had enough of islands and would rather visit Dubrovnik, then consider heading there from Hvar instead.

If you decide to head to Korcula, it can also be a good idea to get an early start. The easiest way to get there from Hvar is to drive to the Sucaraj ferry terminal and take the ferry to the mainland, then drive to the Orebic ferry terminal and grab the boat from there to Korcula town.

Then, spend your first day exploring the beauty of gorgeous Korcula Town. Often marketed as a smaller Dubrovnik, this is an old and excellently preserved town that just oozes charm. There’s a lot to see here and there are also some great restaurants and lovely local wine bars to pop into.

Where to Stay in Korčula 

Apartments Milion – A great mid-range option in Korcula Town, this place offers both comfortable double rooms and apartments for guests to choose from. It makes for a great base when exploring the island.

Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel – This plush hotel in Korcula Town has a beautiful location right on the seaside. They have plenty of beautiful rooms and a great breakfast available in the mornings.

Hostel Korcula – Backpackers visiting Korcula will love this cool hostel in the centre of Korcula Town. They offer both dorms and privates and there are great common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Korcula hotels!

Day 7 – Korčula 

On your final day in Korcula, you can spend it lounging on the beach and, in the afternoon, enjoying some of the incredible wine that makes this island a dream destination. In the morning, head to the lovely Pupnatska Luka Beach and soak up some rays.

If you want to sample some local vintages, then consider heading to the inland town of Smokvica where there are several wineries that offer tastings.

In the second half of the day, make your way to the town of Lumbarda for more wine tasting. This town is also home to some of the island’s (and Croatia’s) only sandy beaches so you can enjoy this, as well.

7-Day Istrian Highlights Itinerary

If it isn’t your first time in Croatia — or even if it is and you’re keen to venture away from the well-trodden tourist path — then consider heading to the northwestern region of Istria.

This triangular peninsula is often considered to be Croatia’s gastronomic heart and it offers incredible ancient historical sites, beautiful coastal cities, and imposing hill towns to rival those of Tuscany. So, if you want to take the road less travelled, take a look at this Istria itinerary :

Day 1 – Pula

Begin your trip in the historic port city of Pula. Pula has an international airport that serves a multitude of airlines and destinations but if you don’t arrive by plane, it is also well-connected by bus.

Three days in Pula is sufficient in order to be able to see all of the incredible sites that the city has to offer while also giving you time to take a day trip or two.

Spend your first day checking out the amazing Pula Arena, visiting the number of interesting museums in the city, browsing the bustling Pula market and learning about Pula’s history.

Foodies will love the House of Istrian Olive Oil, which is a museum that explains the history of olive oil in the region and also allows you to have some tastings. There is some delicious extra virgin olive oil to enjoy here!

Of course, the Pula Arena is really the draw of exploring this city and it is truly spectacular. Excellently preserved, it is smaller than the Colosseum of Rome, however, it attracts far fewer people, as well.l You can climb all around the arena so it’s a very cool place to visit.

Where to Stay in Pula

Boutique Hotel Oasi  – This small hotel is located very close to the beach and a short distance from central Pula. They have a number of rooms on offer, a restaurant on site, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Boutique Hotel Valsabbion  – If you’re the type to travel in luxury, then this boutique hotel is the place for you. Boasting sleek modern rooms, a fantastic swimming pool, an on-site spa, a beachfront location and much more, this hotel is sure to give you a great experience in Pula! 

Crazy House Hostel   – Located in the centre of the Old Town, this hostel is the perfect place for solo travellers on a budget and there is a fantastic outdoor terrace to relax on. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Pula!

Day 2 – Brijuni Islands

You can spend your second day either taking in more of Pula itself or going on a day trip to the wonderful Brijuni Islands.

These were once the summer home of former Yugoslav dictator Josip Broz Tito and today are a wildlife park and nature reserve.

To get to the Brijuni Islands, you must take a ferry from the nearby town of Fazana. This is a pedestrian-only ferry as there are no cars on the island.

Once there, it can be a great idea to hire a bicycle and ride around the island – it’s quite flat and there are plenty of secluded beaches to enjoy.

Day 3 – Labin & Rabac

On the third day, you can either take a day trip to neighbouring hill towns like Labin or spend the day lounging on a nearby beach.

There is a lot to see in this area of Istria so using Pula as a base for 3 nights really makes sense even if you only spend one full day exploring the city itself. The hill town of Labin, for instance, is located only about 45 minutes from Pula and it can be a delightful place to explore.

Nearby, if you want some seaside charms, head to the small town of Rabac, which is absolutely charming and with wandering through, as well. There are also plenty of beaches you could choose to visit should you wish to have a lazy day of sunbathing.

Day 4 – Umag

After spending some time enjoying the history and atmosphere of Pula, it’s time to head to one of the most underrated towns in Istria: Umag.

Umag is a small seaside town in the northwest of Istria and has a quaint and compact old town, a number of stellar swimming spots, great restaurants, and is close to some of Istria’s best vineyards. Two days here should be enough.

Spend the first day exploring Umag itself and maybe take the time to visit a local vineyard for some wine tasting. You can even head to the beach and swim in the warm Adriatic.

Where to Stay in Umag

Vilola  – A small boutique hotel located close to some of the best swimming areas in Umag, Vilola offers air-conditioned rooms with their own balcony and breakfast included in the room rate. 

Hotel Arte Casa  – Another boutique hotel in Umag, this one also has a great breakfast included in the nightly rate, air-conditioned rooms, and free parking on the premises. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Umag!

Day 5 – Istrian Hill Towns

On the second day staying in Umag, take to the car and head inland to visit some of the most picturesque hill towns in Istria. Buje, Groznjan, and Motovun are all within easy reach of Umag.

Here you can also dine on truffles and pasta for a fraction of the cost of elsewhere in the world.

This area of Croatia is completely different from the most popular tourist destinations and it is sure not to disappoint.

Day 6 – Rovinj

After enjoying the hustle and bustle of Pula and the laid-back nature and nearby hill towns of Umag, it’s time to head to the most iconic Istrian town: Rovinj.

Rovinj is an absolutely beautiful seaside town in western Istria and boasts a number of interesting things to do. Its proximity to some of the best beaches in the region is an appealing reason to visit Rovinj as well.

Spend one day exploring the Old Town and take the time to just let your feet wander and get lost. Walk around the harbour, stop in for a drink at one of the many seaside cafes, and even climb the bell tower of St Euphemia’s Church.

Day 7 – Rovinj

On your second day in Rovinj and last day of this Croatia trip, you can either spend it laying on the beach and soaking up the bright Adriatic sun or you can hop in the car and go on another day trip.

The small hill town of Bale or the lively seaside towns of Porec and Vrsar are both appealing options, as is the beautiful Lim Fjord.

Where to Stay in Rovinj

Hotel Angelo d’Oro   – A small hotel in the middle of old town Rovinj, this place has a number of rooms on offer and comes very highly rated. Breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Rooms Barbieri – Located only five minutes from the old town, this charming hotel is a great option for a place to stay in Rovinj. The rooms are large and comfortable and it also includes breakfast in the room rate. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Rovinj!

Croatia is an absolutely gorgeous and welcoming country that just begs to be explored. However, mapping out the ideal 7 days in Croatia itinerary is paramount to ensuring you have the best Croatian adventure possible!

Are you planning to visit Croatia? Have any questions? Let us know in the comm

Related Posts:

Is Dubrovnik Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Dubrovnik

Is Croatia Expensive? Croatia Trip Cost Guide in 2024

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days on Korcula Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, we are staying for 7 days. Our worry is that we arrive late at night around 00:30 in Zagreb. Do you suggest to immediately move out of Zagreb and then to return to Zagreb on the last two days (to avoid problems cause of the flight?) Also, at night which is the easiest way to travel and would Zadar be a good place to be based at? Thanks a lot!

Hi-is it reasonable to drive from Vienna to Croatia or is it better to fly & rent a car in Zagreb? Was thinking of focusing on Istrian area due to time constraints & found a hotel that caters to Vegan diets. Is there enough to do in that area for 6-7 days if your primary interest is pretty nature? Thanks

Hi Mark, especially if you’re heading to Istria and not further south in Croatia, it’s not unreasonable at all to drive from Vienna. In fact, it’s a gorgeous drive and you will have lots of opportunities for stop-offs along the way. The drive from Vienna to Pula is about 6 hours.

There is certainly enough to do in Istria to fill 6-7 days and I would highly recommend spending that amount of time there!

We are interested in visiting the Balkans at the beginning of November for about 11 days. We can rent a car but I would like to start from Sarajevo and end there. I thought of doing two countries only, maybe Bosnia and Croatia. Or Bosnia and a different country – which one? We would need to get back to Sarajevo. We are also interested in the Jewish background of the Balkans, both historically, after the expulsion from Spain through the Holocaust. Can you help me to put my head in order :-)?

For 11 days, I think you could easily visit some highlights of Bosnia along with bits of Croatia. Especially if you’re interested in Jewish history, Sarajevo can be a great place to visit.

Hi Maggie, we are planning a 20 day trip to Croatia late July/beginning of August with 3 kids (8, 12, 14). We are arriving and departing from Dubrovnik. We would like to end our trip in Dubrovnik and since there isn’t a convenient flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb, we will have to hit the road as soon as we land. We would like to visit Istria, Lake Bled/Vintgar Gorge, Plitvice Lakes, Rijeka, Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik with various day trips throughout. It would be nice to see Zadar and/or Zagreb as well but not sure if we will have time or if necessary. We love hiking, beaches and of course sight seeing. I’m trying to figure out what’s the best way to plan out our trip. Should we break up our initial 7 hour drive from Dubrovnik or go straight through? Where should we stop first and in what order should we make our remaining stops? I would like to see as much as we can but at the same time not be overwhelmed and have some beach time. Please help!

We are arriving in Croatia in the middle of June for 7 night staying in Lapad can you recommend where to start exploring first

We need to fly into Zadar or Zagreb either is fine and out of Split. Give or take a week. We don’t need a ton of hiking but would like to see some falls. Islands? Cities. We need a plan.

Hello Maggie,

As first, I want to say that I do like your overview of Croatia trip in general and thank you for it.

However, I must say that it is very sad how people focus only on coastal region of Croatia, with exception of Zagreb and Plitvice lakes, and completely ignore the continental part of it, which is definitely not fair.

Places like Vinkovci, the oldest settlement in Europe where two Roman emperors were born, then numerous wine cellars and vineyard, especially in the town of Ilok, whose wine was used during coronation of Queen Elisabeth II and on Price Harry and William weddings, city of Osijek with its baroque architecture, city of Djakovo with its royal breed of horses called Lipizzaner which are so beautiful – closest thing to Unicorns as they are called, then the City of Varazdin, called also a “Little Vienna”, formerly even a capital of Croatia (18th century) with a beautiful castle and mesmerizing baroque style architecture, Croatian Sahara, numerous castles all around, river sites, and as I like to say most important of all, the amazing food and the most warm and welcoming people of all. Of course, there are so many more that I didn’t mention, but I don’t want to keep this long.

At the end, this is not a criticism and have no negative connotations, but just maybe a pointer that there is another side of Croatia, that is far from the sea and common touristic spotlight, however still beautiful and wort to visit.

We are planning a trip to Croatia in March 2023. Our flight lands in Zagreb on 03/09. We fly out of Zagreb as well. Have about 8 days. I like your first itinerary, but we wanted to see Istria as well. We are not planning on going all the way to Dubrovnik on this trip. Any suggestions as to routes? Would like to hit Zadar, Split, Plitvice Lakes Park, and Istria. We will rent a car. Thank you!

Hi Sandy, unfortunately, it’s not very practical to include all you want on your itinerary – especially when considering travel times. Personally, I would suggest not planning on visiting Istria if you would like to see all of the other parts of Croatia, as well.

We are planning a trip next month for 7 days and interested into going to Montenegro from Dubrovnik. I think it would be too much to think we could get to the Plitvice National Park as well? What are your suggestions in Montenegro?

Thank YOU! Sharon

I am visiting Slovenia and Croatia next summer for approximately 8 days . We will arrive in Lublanja in the middle of the day and leave from Dubrovnik at noon the last day. We would like to spend 1/2 day in Lubalanja and 11/2 days in lake bled , a day in Novo Mesto, 1/2 day in Pula and2 days in Dubrovnik We we’re thinking of a tour to Mostar and Medjagorje one day Can we do this in the time allotted? We will not be driving Could you give us a time efficient itinerary that would make it possible?

Hi Jackie, this route seems far too rushed to be enjoyable and to actually spend any time in any of the places you’re keen to visit — you’ll be spending the majority of your time in transit. I would suggest planning to spend your entire time in Slovenia or visiting a bit of Slovenia and Croatian Istria. You can find our Slovenia itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/slovenia-itinerary/

Hi Maggie, Thank you for writing one of the most thorough blogs about traveling in Croatia! I’d love to get your advice on my itinerary. I will be going to Croatia from Slovenia and will have 7 days and 6 nights. I’d like this to be a more relaxed trip if possible…and am so torn between chilling on an island an skipping Dubrovnik or fitting Dubrovnik in! My flight is out of Split so I do need to get back there somehow and figure out what to do with the car I rent. What are your thoughts on the following:

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > 4 nights in Hvar or Brac > Depart from Split

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > Hvar or Brac for 2 nights > Dubrovnik for two nights > Split overnight > Depart from Split

Option 2 honestly sounds pretty intense. That said, do you think it’s doable? If I were to go with Option 1, do you have any suggestions between Hvar or Brac and where to stay?

Thank you so much!

Hi Gina, happy you’ve found this article helpful! I do think that your second option is doable, however, it does sound quite rushed and exhausting, especially if you’re looking to chill out a bit!. Personally, I would opt for the first option to have a more relaxing trip 🙂

Hey Maggie I hope my message finds you well! We are planning with my partner a 6 days 5 nights trip starting and ending from Zagreb airiport, at the end of August with Flix bus and Ferries. We arrive in Zagreb at 14:00 Day one and Im thinking of after spending 3 hours in Zagreb to leave for either Pula or Rovijn, spend the Night and few hours the next Day. After I was checking if there is a way to travel with Ferrie directly to Split, spend the next evening there and travel with Ferrie to Dubrovnik for night number three. Next evening I was thinking of catching the evening Flix bus for Plivitce lake, in order to get in early in the morning. Later get back to Zagreb for an early flight the next Morning.

Is it possible you thhink with Bus and Ferrie, what should I leave back or add, any advices.

Hi Zak – honestly, I think your itinerary is way too hectic for the short time you have. I’d recommend concentrating on one of the routes I have outlined above for a less stressful and easier to coordinate trip 🙂

Thanks so much for this blog it is awesome! We are a family of four with two teenagers. Are we too late to plan a visit this summer? We are environmental scientists so I am mostly interested in enjoying the natural beauty of Croatia. What is your favorite island? I am obsessed with swimming holes and also clear blue waters…. What do you think two teenage girls would like the best?

Thanks for your comment, April, and I’m so happy you’ve found this article helpful! I don’t think that you’re too late to be planning a trip for the summer at all! Unfortunately, I don’t have too much experience travelling to the Croatian islands (I hope this changes soon, though!), but I do think that the island of Brac sounds like a good fit for you. It’s easy to reach from Split and has lots of great swimming areas. Hope you’re able to have a great trip!

Looking at booking Croatia for July/August 2021 and wanting to spend 14 days touring the country. What airport would you suggest to fly into and what airport would you suggest to leave out of? We are avid hikers and defiantly enjoy our ocean and water days. Enjoy the finer hotels and spas also. Very excited being my great grandmother and grandfather came from Croatia I want to experience the finest places the country offers.

Pat Williams

Hi Pat, I would recommend flying into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik (or vice versa) if you want to see a good portion of the country in 2 weeks. Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

Hi Maggie. I am planning a trip of about 7 days to Croatia the first part of June. I have heard such wonderful things about Rovinj and the Iberia peninsula, but we also want to visit Split and Dubrovnik. Any suggestions or is this just trying to cram too much into a week? Most of the itineraries that I see online are an either/or for visiting those areas..

Hi Karen, unfortunately, it will likely be a bit too rushed if you plan to visit Istria and also Split and Dubrovnik in just one week. You can very easily spend a week just in Istria and even more in Dalmatia, so I would recommend weighing which areas appeal to you most and concentrating on those. You just might have to plan another trip!

Hi. What is the best way to tour the islands? Day trips or charter a sleeping boat for a few days? Want to enjoy the coastal scenery without feeling rushed by a group boat. And, when does Summer/high season officially end?

Hi Cindy, if you don’t want to feel rushed on the islands, then I would recommend spending a few days overnight on the ones that interest you rather than going on day trips. A boat charter is also a great idea if you want to island hop with more flexibility! High season is typically over by the end of September and you will start to see tourists clearing out and some businesses closing up by this time. The weather usually stays very nice through October, though, depending on where you are in the country!

I am planning a trip for 2 and most likely following a schedule similar to your “Classic Croatia” route. I was interested in visiting Krka National Park as well. Do you think it is worth it or is similar to Plitvice and not necessary?

Hi Holly, thanks for your comment! Both Krka and Plitvice are similar, but you can still get different things out of them if you want to visit both. For instance, you can go swimming at Krka which is not allowed at Plitvice. I personally think that both are worth visiting but Plitvice is more stunning than Krka in my opinion.

Hi Maggie, My wife and I are planning a 14 day motorhome tour of Croatia in mid September 2020. Our trip starts in Zagreb and ends in Dubrovnik. We currently have no Itinerary but would like to spend equal time travelling the coast and inland areas. Could you advise any web sites that show motorhome overnight parking. Regards

Hi Peter, sounds like you’re in the process of planning a great trip! Unfortunately, I don’t know much at all about motorhome travel, so I can’t advise you in that area. Hope you have a great time in Croatia!

Hi Maggie, I have planned my visit to Croatia from 25th Feb to 02nd March 2020. It is going to be me and my wife only. We will land in Zagreb on 25th Feb and would move out from Dubrovnik on the 02nd of March (Flights already done). Can you suggest what all places to be covered in this duration and how is the weather going to be like? Also, I am a bit confused b/w taking a rental car (don’t know whether it is left or right hand drive) or taking public transport like bus or taxis.

Hi Apoorv, I have covered a week-long itinerary starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik as well as the average weather to expect above. Croatia, like most European countries besides the UK, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus, drives on the right-hand side. All major cities are well-connected by bus. Relying on taxis to get around is an option, however, it will be very expensive. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!

HI I’m travelling to Croatia in early May 2020. Land Zagreb, 7 days, finishing in Dubrovnik (probably fly into Athens from here I’m thinking). A friend told me that Plitvice Lake NP required 2days and to stay there a night. What’s your thoughts on this?? Many thanks Anne-Marie

Hi Anne-Marie, I think you would only need 2 days in Plitvice if you’re really into hiking and nature and that’s why you’re visiting Croatia. Especially since you only have 7 days, there are many more places to spend time in Croatia. Hope you have a great trip!

Where should one start its trip from? If we are skipping Zagreb, and want to cover places like Split , Plitvice, Dubrovnik. Any other place that should which is highly recommended?

Hi Archie, if you don’t plan on visiting Zagreb, starting in Split or Dubrovnik makes sense. If you want to visit another coastal town, Zadar will make a nice stop. Also, there are numerous islands (Hvar, Brac, Korcula, etc) that are worth visiting.

20 days in Croatia and neighboring countries

We are 6 active hikers booked a trip to Croatia for 10 days in early May, 20 2 nights Opatija 1 night Split 2 nights Dubrovnik 1 night Vodice 1 night Zagreb 2 nights Bled

We would like to stay 10 more days to go to neighboring countries as well as doing a little hiking, biking and kayaking the area.

We are planning our flight from Vancouver. Our trip starts at Opatija and ends at Bled. Any suggestions on a good itineraries for pre and post trip?

Thanks for your comment, Jennifer. For the rest of your trip, any of the itineraries in this article might be good for you. If you are curious about exploring more of the Balkans besides just Croatia and Slovenia, we also have some Balkan itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/plan-balkans-travel-itinerary/

Hi , I would be landing at zadar airport in september and planned for a 7 day trip, could you suggest how should we plan.. About us- Couple with no historical interests but love nature, scenery , beaches. Have to use public conveyance only for travel within croatia.

We are looking for a relaxed trip not a rushed one.

Thanks in advance.. Silky

Hi Silky, I would recommend you rework the Adriatic coast itinerary above to begin and end in Zadar rather than Zagreb. Going from Zadar-Zagreb-Split-Zadar or Zadar-Split-Zagreb-Zadar both work equally well and are all easily accessible via public transit. Hope you have a great trip!

I briefly read the article and maybe you covered it already. But most people will fly into Zagreb. With a 7 day itinerary using a rental car, you will start at the North and end in Dubrovnik. One has to account the time to get back to Zagreb. Any suggestions on how best to do this?

Hi Jacob, thanks for your comment. Because many people start and end their Croatia trips from different areas of the country (there are numerous airports that people will fly into, not just Zagreb!), I’ve left out how to get back to your beginning point. However, if you’re planning on renting a car in Zagreb and making your final destination in Dubrovnik, I see no reason why you couldn’t just drive back to Zagreb. It is often a lot cheaper to pick up and return a rental car to the same location. There are also numerous bus connections to Zagreb from just about every major city in Croatia, including Dubrovnik, if you don’t want to drive back to the capital yourself.

Hi Maggie, How’s Croatia in the dead if winter? January end Feb beginning? Where do you recommend travelling and what’s there to see. Thanks b

It depends on what you’re after, but the seaside towns will be pretty sleepy in the winter months. It’s a good time to visit Dubrovnik as you can experience the city with far fewer tourists than in the high season. Across the board, you will find accommodation prices to be a lot cheaper than in the more popular months, but some businesses may not be open in the middle of winter. Hope this helps!

Hello, Maggie! travellers plan to travel to visit Croatia in June, 2019, it would be around from June 26 to July 2-3 return,trip planned sbout 7-8 days at the destination. We are coming and driving a minibus (minivan) so ,it means we are very flexible on route and in any destinstion, we are free and sould move to any place any fay. As we primary memtioned, our start of the itinerary would be Zagreb, Split or Dubrovnik. Is it right if westart our trip from Riga by bus? By our plans we have to cross Latvia, Lithuania? Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and then somehow enter the Croatia. Could you corret me and suhgest me the best trip option (7-8days trip) for us as necessary?! Best regards, Ieva Lukina (ieva@21. lv)

Hi Ieva, I think that if you only have 7-8 days for your trip, trying to drive from Riga to Croatia is going to take up a good portion of it and give you very little time to explore Croatia itself. Maybe, if you can, try to allot more time for the trip or concentrate on travelling a little closer to home instead, this time around.

It’s tough making a decision, there are so many places to see that are gorgeous. I’m honestly not a big fan of Zagreb, it’s not the real Croatia to me. It’s Central Europe. Croatia for me is Central Dalmatia and to a smaller extent, Istria. For me, the highlights of the country range along the coast from Zadar (with an excursion inland to Plitvice) to Dubrovnik (from where I think Kotor is a must see as you mention). So many great spots on the way though: Sibenik, Omis, Makarska, the island of Vis…and that’s not even including the islands on the south. So much to see.

Thanks for the comment, Frank! I agree with you that it’s so hard to plan a route in Croatia…you could easily spend months there and not see everything!

I’m going to have to disagree with you about Zagreb, however. While I’m the first person to say that a capital city isn’t necessarily reflective of a country on the whole, I’m not sure it’s right to say that it’s not the “real” Croatia. It’s certainly much different than the cities in Dalmatia, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit and I think including it on a Croatia itinerary is important to get a feel for all sides of the country…even if you only have a short period there.

Great suggestions elsewhere…I’ve only been to Šibenik out of the places you mentioned and thought it was absolutely lovely. Like you said…there’s just so much to explore!

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I Spent a Month in Croatia—Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

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So,  I’m traveling for a year . As part of this whirlwind adventure, my husband and I recently spent 36 days in Croatia. Many people asked if the country “had enough” to warrant a month-long trip. I always remarked yes, despite not being certain at the time. But now that I’ve done it, I can assure you there’s plenty to see and do. The crescent-shaped country may seem small, but it’s packed with pristine beaches, centuries-old landmarks and delicious food. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know before visiting this beautiful Balkan nation..

RELATED 19 DESTINATIONS TO VISIT BEFORE EVERYONE HEARS ABOUT THEM

1. ‘Hvala’ Means Thank You

When traveling to a new place, I think it’s essential to learn how to say a few basic words. This shows you’re making an effort, even if you don’t speak the language. I got through simple exchanges with molim (please) and hvala (thank you). 

2. There Are Four Main Regions

Croatia is divided into four main regions that reflect the history and culture. Croatia proper encompasses much of inland Croatia—basically Zagreb and the surrounding territories. Located in the northwest of the country, Istria is the triangular peninsula that’s bordered by Slovenia and the Adriatic Sea. Arguably the most underrated region, Slavonia comprises the easternmost portion of Croatia. Dalmatia covers the southern part of the country and includes many holiday hot spots (e.g., Split, Hvar and Dubrovnik).

3. ...AND MORE THAN A THOUSAND ISLANDS

It’s not a coincidence that island hopping is so marketable in Croatia. From isles connected to the mainland by bridges (hello, Krk) to uninhabited atolls, there are more than a thousand islands along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea.

4. PLUS, GORGEOUS NATIONAL PARKS

UNESCO-protected Plitvice Lakes National Park offers alpine forests, rugged hiking trails and crystalline pools. Situated 15 minutes from Sibenik, waterfall-studded Krka National Park stands among the most accessible choices for nature lovers. Both are unbelievably picturesque and popular tourist attractions. It’s vital to buy tickets online well in advance. Otherwise, you’ll end up waiting in a long line and risk the chance of not being permitted to enter.

5. Expect (Mostly) Rocky Beaches

Sand tends to be a main component of any good beach, right? That may be the case in the U.S., but Croatia doesn’t follow such a limited definition. It has many pebbly coves and jagged rocks that jut into the Adriatic Sea. On that note, investing in aqua socks might not be a bad idea.

6. It’s a Bargain (Most of the Time)

Croatia is affordable. After gallivanting around Stockholm and Copenhagen, I was happy to give my wallet a rest. Beer and fresh-caught fish won’t set you back more than a few bucks at local joints, so you can definitely stay on budget. Not everything is a steal, though—particularly if you want to do  private boat excursions  and dine at high-end restaurants. Also, the time of year you visit definitely plays a role in the price. We ended up paying higher summer rates. For example, an Airbnb that would cost $68 during other times of the year spikes to $150 during peak season. Something to keep in mind.

7. Cash Is King

Ready for some sage wisdom? Always carry kuna. Whether you’re in a major city or a remote village, having cash will make things a heck of a lot easier.

8. You Need to Drive a Stick Shift

Croatia doesn’t have a well-connected railway system, so buses are really the only option in terms of public transport. From my experience in northern and central Croatia, renting a car is your best bet. FYI, unless you request and confirm availability of an automatic whip in advance, you’ll definitely end up with a stick shift—which is what happened to us. Luckily, my husband knows how to drive a manual and I’m an excellent passenger.

9. Ferries Are Your Best Bet in Dalmatia

Once you get into Dalmatia, a car begins to be a bit of a burden as it limits the vessels you are able to take. Remember the name  Jadrolinij a , because this ferry operator is going to be your best friend. Be sure to research schedules and book tickets in advance.

10. What to Eat

Culinary traditions vary depending on the region. Ruling empires and neighboring countries have left their mark too. You can definitely taste the Italian influence in Istria with all the pizza, pasta, gnocchi, truffles, cured ham and seafood. Dalmatia cuisine is very Mediterranean. Think lots of grilled fish, olive oil and vegetables. If you find yourself in Hvar, definitely try gregada, a traditional soup made with cod. On the heartier side of things, the food in Croatia proper leans more toward meat and potatoes, while paprika and pork are staples of Slavonian fare.

11. Where to Stay

Overall, we had a ton of luck with Airbnbs. My three favorites were our cute studio in Rovinj , cool duplex in Zadar and recently refurbished flat in Split . Not only is renting an apartment a good way to stick to your budget, but it feels really homey and also gives you the freedom to cook. Though we did splurge toward the end of our trip with overnights at Palace Elisabeth , a new five-star property in Hvar, and Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik .

12. Best Things to Do

You’ll probably fly into Zagreb, as it’s the biggest airport in Croatia. Have a free day to kill? Check out the  Museum of Broken Relationships  and the colorfully tiled roof of St. Mark’s Church. In terms of cities, I honestly preferred Split. Besides visiting Diocletian’s Palace, it’s a great starting point for excursions to the Blue Lagoon and  island hopping . On the Dalmatia leg of our journey, we did a mix of sunset cocktails in Hvar, blissing out on the beaches of Brac, exploring sea caves off the coast of Vis and wine tasting in Korčula. 

13. When to Visit

Zagreb is a major city, so you can do all the urban activities any time of year. It empties out during summer. As the thermometer rises, everyone flocks to Istria and Dalmatia. Of course, going in peak season has its positives and negatives. The weather is amazing for sunning, swimming and sailing. That said, it’s prime for tourists. Ultimately, it’s a matter of what’s more important to you—boat days or sightseeing without the crowds. Would I personally do another summer getaway to Croatia? Absolutely.

14. Tourism Is on the Rise

As you’ve gathered by now, Game of Thrones didn’t just shine a light on Dubrovnik. By extension, it brought selfie-snapping mobs to the entire country. I anticipated tourists in the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” but was truly shocked by how packed it was in formerly less-frequented places like Trogir and Zadar. My advice? Go soon before Croatia reaches the stardom level of the Amalfi Coast or Greece. How to Travel the Croatian Islands Like a Millionaire (on a Plebeian Budget)

Lindsay's Must-Haves in Croatia

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10 of Croatia’s best spots for a crowd-free summer holiday

With Croatia set to go on to the green list, we pick quiet islands and beaches for a post-lockdown escape

Last summer, visitors who managed to make it to Croatia had a taste of what the country was like before the days of mass tourism. And it tasted good. But while honeypots such as Dubrovnik were unrecognisably quiet, there have always been parts of the country where you don’t have to wade through crowds.

Places where things move at a less hurried pace, where Croatian life can be savoured, where you get a flavour of what the Dalmatians call fjaka – the art of doing nothing. These islands and mainland destinations are what you want in a post-lockdown escape: peace, beauty and the chance to discover why Croatia is such an enticing country.

It’s hard to move at a fast pace on this island in the Šibenik archipelago – it has banned cars, so you’ll have to walk or cycle. As the island is only eight square kilometres, that’s not much of a trial. A half-hour ferry ride from the city of Šibenik takes you to the island’s only village. Not only is Zlarin covered in greenery, but it stepped up green credentials two years ago by becoming the first island in Croatia to ban single-use plastics.

What to do Zlarin was once known for its coral diving, which you can tell from its coral shops and a tiny coral museum that’s open in the summer. Smothered in cypress, olive, almond and fig trees, it is a place for hiking and kayaking to secluded beaches, perhaps trekking up to its highest point, Klepac, at 169 metres, and taking in views of Velebit mountain. From Zlarin it’s a 15-minute ferry ride to the even sleepier island of Prvić, whose beaches make an agreeable day trip. Pop into the entertaining museum devoted to Faust Vrančić , local Renaissance man, inventor and early parachute pioneer.

Where to stay Stone Houses Zlarin (from €90) are two attractively renovated village houses with balconies, terraces and lots of exposed brick. House Nana has three bedrooms but can squeeze in 10 people, while House Vana has two bedrooms with capacity for eight. Just 200 metres from the harbour, Apartments Katina (from €35) has three simple apartments for two, and a fourth that sleeps four, all with terraces.

Where to eat Konoba Aldura , right in front of the marina, serves generous platters of grilled fish and seafood and has sea views. Set back further in the village, Konoa Prslika has a stone terrace with olive trees to go with its Mediterranean menu, including grilled langoustines and octopus cooked over a wood fire.

On the coast road between Split and Šibenik – but bypassed by an inland motorway – Primošten has one of Croatia’s most photogenic old towns, on its own small island. The jumble of medieval houses is connected to the mainland via a causeway, while a neighbouring promontory covered in pines is home to the area’s best beaches.

What to do While you’re wandering through the stepped streets of the old town, head uphill to the 15th-century church of Sveti Juraj (St George) and take in the views. The little promontory that sticks out like a thumb is ringed by the pine-backed beaches of Raduča – the smaller of which has views of the old town. Endless vineyards cover much of the landscape – it is home to the indigenous and full-bodied babić grape. Call Prgin Winery and pop in for a tasting. In spite of Primošten’s laid-back feel, the municipality is home to one of Dalmatia’s biggest nightclubs, Aurora , just a few miles away from the old town. Where to stay Facing Mala Raduča beach, Zora Hotel (half-board doubles from €96) has airy rooms with balconies and sea views, an outdoor pool and sauna. Villa Koša (from €70) near the entrance to Primošten’s harbour has 14 apartments with kitchens, balconies and sea views.

Where to eat In the old town is Agape Kitchen & Wine , which offers Dalmatian small plates as well as grilled spiny lobster (a local speciality) and the rich beef dish of pašticada with gnocchi. Grab a seat on the sea-facing terrace of Konoba Toni by the marina for big plates of grilled fish.

This small port on Istria’s southwestern coast isn’t exactly off the tourist radar – it’s the departure point for boat trips to the Brijuni Islands national park . But with Istria’s big-hitters Pula and Rovinj only 15 and 30 minutes away respectively, family-friendly Fažana tends to get overlooked. In this delightful fishing port you can get a more relaxed taste of Istria. What to do Fažana’s appeal is its mellow atmosphere and long, pebbly beaches. Its medieval centre is heralded by the 15th-century church of Saints Cosmas and Damian, and look out for the portico-fronted 14th-century Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel . A boat trip to the Brijuni Islands (only 15 minutes) is a must. More than a dozen islands form the archipelago, but excursions go to Veli Brijun, the former summer playground of Tito – and, before him, the Habsburgs and the Romans.

Where to stay Villa Mihaela (from €30) has five bright apartments with terraces in a large house in a residential area about a 10-minute walk from the beach. There’s also a pool, bike rental and a communal outdoor kitchen for barbecues. Set in a restored 16th-century townhouse in the centre of Fažana, Heritage Hotel Chersin (B&B from £105) has pretty rooms with exposed stone walls, and the garden restaurant is just as attractive.

Where to eat At Konoba Batana by the harbour, soak up sea views from its covered terrace. The sharing fish and meat platters offer excellent value. Book ahead for a table at Konoba Beccaccia , a country restaurant a few miles out the town. The giant hearth is where much of the cooking is done: steaks of black angus beef, along with meat cooked slowly under hot embers in a bell-shaped pot called a peka . The owners also run an apartment complex on the site, with an outdoor pool.

Dugi Otok means “long island” – it straggles along for 43km but is not much more than 4km wide. The most beautiful island of the Zadar archipelago (and about an 80-minute ferry ride from Zadar), Dugi Otok has an intoxicating wildness about it, with only a few tiny villages and a fragrant landscape of wild herbs, pines, fig trees and olive groves.

What to do This is the place to kick back and enjoy two of the Adriatic’s loveliest sights. Telašćica nature park is an oddly shaped bay with six islets within and another 13 surrounding it – and a saltwater lake as well. Climb the cliffs for views of the Kornati national park to the south; and cycle, hike, swim, go scuba diving or just sail and kayak around the bay. Access is easiest by boat excursion from Dugi Otok’s largest settlement, Sali.

Further north is Sakarun (or Saharun) beach, a sheltered cove of white sand which often appears on lists of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches. Less well known is the pine-fringed Brbinjšćica Bay, from where you can explore the blue depths of the Dragon’s Eye and Golubinka sea caves.

Where to stay Apartmani Vesna Giro (from €75) has two waterside apartments in Soline, both with two bedrooms, sea-facing terraces, a barbecue and mooring for boats. Hotel Maxim (half-board doubles from €138) is one of four hotels in the Hoteli Božava complex near the ferry port in Božava. Stylish rooms with balconies overlook the sea, as does the outdoor pool.

Where to eat Enjoy views of Veli Rat’s marina from the terrace of Konoba Lanterna , where grilled calamari, octopus and lobster are among the specialities. Konoba Trapula on Sali seafront offers Adriatic favourites such as cuttlefish-ink risotto and octopus salad, along with grilled sea bass and steaks.

The largest island in the Šibenik archipelago is the easiest to reach, thanks to the little lift bridge at Tisno, a small village that straddles Murter and the mainland. While Tisno was put on the map thanks to the dance festivals that take place in July and August (and which are scheduled to restart this year), Murter has always been more of a low-key place.

What to do Murter town is an excellent base for boat trips to the Kornati national park , an archipelago of 89 islands, all off-grid and with an otherworldly, barren beauty. Otherwise, hit the beaches, almost of all of which are rugged and rustic. Slanica is the busiest, but head further along the island’s west coast for rocky and pebbly bays ringed with pine and olive trees, such as Kosirina and Čigrada.

There’s fascinating history, too, among the olive groves and scrubby hills. Wander through the remains of an ancient Roman city at Colentum archaeological park, and discover Murter’s rich maritime history at the small but compelling Betina Museum of Wooden Shipbuilding.

Where to stay Hotel Ana Murter (doubles from €119) on the west coast has colourful rooms with terraces facing the sea, with a rocky beach just a few metres away. Overlooking Betina’s marina, Lantina Apartments (from €45) has a selection of apartments, all with balconies, though it’s worth splashing out for one with a sea view. There’s also a villa with two separate apartments.

Where to eat Fine Food Murter does casual-chic as well as it does huge plates of grilled squid and black angus steak, as well as wok-fried beef and homemade pasta with truffles. For a beach restaurant, Reflektor on Slanica beach offers affordable seafood and meat platters, pastas and grilled mackerel.

One of the two largest islands in Croatia along with neighbouring Krk, Cres remains untamed despite its proximity to Rijeka and Istria . It’s an island of two halves: the lush green northern half, Tramuntana, soon gives way to the barren karst landscape that covers many Adriatic islands. Although ferries run from Rijeka, Krk and Brestova on the Istrian coast – and the island of Lošinj is connected at the southern tip by a swing bridge – there’s still a sense that Cres is out of the way.

What to do Set in a deep harbour, Cres town is a pleasing collection of Venetian townhouses squeezed around tiny squares and along narrow alleyways. There’s a long pebbly beach in Cres town, but quieter ones further south in the small villages of Valun and Lubenice. At the island’s southern tip, just before the bridge to Lošinj, is Osor, where public art is scattered around Venetian buildings.

It’s the outdoors that draws many visitors: hiking trails meander through oak forests and along ridges with Adriatic views everywhere you look. Follow the trails to the Beli Visitor Centre , where a wildlife sanctuary devoted to rescuing rare griffon vultures is one of the island’s highlights.

Where to stay Pansion Tramontana (B&B from €80) in Beli is handy for the Beli Visitor Centre, and the owners also run a dive centre from Beli beach. The ACI Marina (from €67) in Cres town has nine smartly furnished apartments, some with balconies or terraces, and the price includes access to a fitness centre.

Where to eat Cres produces some of Croatia’s most delicious lamb, and the rustic Konoba Bukaleta in the inland village of Loznati is one of the best places to try it, roasted or grilled. In Osor, Konoba Bonifačić serves platters of grilled fish and lamb stews in a cosy garden.

Pelješac peninsula

The oyster beds of Mali Ston and the peninsula’s hilly vineyards that produce robust plavac mali, dingač and postup reds have turned Pelješac into a foodie magnet. And Game of Thrones fans come to visit Ston’s 14th-century defensive walls, which masqueraded as King’s Landing in the fantasy drama. This sinuous peninsula that stretches north of Dubrovnik for 90km also has fabulous beaches tucked among its tree-fringed coves and bays.

What to do Orebić, the largest settlement, is handy for ferries to Korčula, but there’s also a 15th-century Franciscan monastery, the lovely Trstenica beach and the challenging 961-metre summit of Sveti Ilija looming over the town.

The winding main road forming Pelješac’s spine helpfully signposts boutique wineries offering tastings (booked ahead preferably), including Vinarija Bartulović (which also has a cottage to rent), Matuško and Mikulić (which also owns an aparthotel, restaurant and campsite in Orebić).

Despite their popularity, the twin villages of Ston and Mali Ston are hard to ignore, with their neat collection of old stone houses, oyster beds, vast saltpans and those magnificent walls that go on for 3km.

Where to stay Set on the waterfront in Viganj west of Orebić and built of creamy Dalmatian stone, Heritage Boutique Hotel (doubles from €163) has stylish rooms with exposed beams and brick, as well as a seawater pool facing the sea. Mimbelli (B&B doubles from €68) on Orebić’s seafront is full of charm, a large stone guesthouse with five colourful rooms (three with a sea view) and an attractive restaurant.

Where to eat Unless you really hate oysters, you can’t pass up the chance to sit on the terrace at Bota Šare in Mali Ston’s harbour and treat yourself to a platter (it also does great pasta). In a hillside above Orebić – with dreamy views of the sea, especially at sunset – is Agroturizam Kapor , a family-run, rustic restaurant that specialises in cooking meat under a peka . Order a day in advance so as not to miss out.

Geographically and culturally, Nin packs in a lot for such a small place. In medieval times, this compact town 16km north-west of Zadar was the seat of Croatia’s kings and archbishops, and has a definite fairytale quality about it. Its old town is set on a tiny islet within a bay almost enclosed by a sandy spit, joined to the mainland by two low stone bridges. Saltpans and sandy beaches surround this little oddity, with the Velebit mountains brooding in the background to add more of an air of strangeness.

What to do Swim and laze – or go kitesurfing – in the shallow waters of Nin’s sandy beaches, including the 1km sandy spit of Žrdrijac. The Queen’s beach is beside a large mud bath, so expect to see people plastered with mineral-rich mud. In the old town, the simple, austere Church of the Holy Cross dates from the ninth century and is believed to be the oldest in the country.

Nin’s long history, including its ancient Greek and Roman periods, is clearly displayed in the nearby Nin Museum of Antiquities. Cross the bridge to reach the Solina Nin Salt Museum , which offers a fascinating look at the town’s 2,000-year-old salt industry.

Where to stay On the edge of the old town on the seafront, Apartments Val (from €50) offer five breezy studios and one-bedroom apartments with balconies and sea views. There’s also a communal garden with a brick fireplace and a vine-shaded table. A minute’s walk from the water’s edge is Apartments Bella (from €45), with two modern studios and two one-bedroom apartments with terraces, along with a shared barbecue.

Where to eat There’s a cluster of good places to eat in the old town. Restaurant Providenca has a nicely rustic garden where you can share big plates of grilled meats and seafood pasta. Restaurant Sokol also features homemade pasta and hefty grilled steaks as well as ninski šokol , the cured pork neck that’s a Nin speciality.

Kopački Rit

One of Europe’s largest wetlands spreads around north-eastern Croatia between Osijek and the Serbian border. Thanks to the confluence of the Danube and Drava rivers, the vast floodplain of Kopački Rit is hypnotically beautiful. Nearly 300 bird species fly over this huge nature reserve of lakes, ponds, backwaters, flower-rich grasslands and oak forests.

What to do Follow trails of raised wooden walkways through wildfowl-rich marshes and past a lake that’s a partly sunken forest. Rent a bike in nearby Bilje to cover more ground while looking out for herons, egrets and storks. Autumn is migration time, when even non-birders can’t fail to notice the mass migration of birds. Boat trips from Lake Sakadaš glide through otherwise inaccessible waterways, and you can also join a guided canoe tour. If you’re visiting in summer, bring mosquito repellent.

Kopački Rit is in the Baranja region of Slavonia , whose largest city, Osijek, is full of Habsburg architecture. Check out the cobbled squares and lanes in the baroque quarter, Tvrda .

Where to stay Within walking distance of Kopački Rit is Didin Konak (B&B doubles from €30 a night), a traditional farm-like complex comprising a B&B, apartments, a restaurant and a wine cellar. In Osijek, the 12-room Boutique Hotel Tvrda (B&B doubles from around €100) is in a prime spot in the Tvrda quarter, and includes a rooftop pool, hot tub and sauna.

Where to eat The region’s Croatian-Hungarian culinary melange is on full display at Restoran Kormoran , within the nature park. Paprika plays a starring role in freshwater fish dishes, particularly the fiš paprikaš with local carp or perch. It’s a similar story closer to Osijek at Čarda kod Baranjca by the River Drava, with dishes of goulash, grilled chicken and pork, as well as platters of river fish.

Like a mini version of the historic town of Opatija , Lovran has kept the Habsburg elegance that made the western coast of Istria the winter playground of the Austro-Hungarians. Grand Italianate hotels and townhouses tower over the Lungomare, the 12km seafront promenade that goes all the way past Opatija to Volosko.

What to do When you’re not strolling along the Lungomare – one of the most pleasurable things to do – you can nose around the narrow alleys of Lovran’s old town and its tiny 14th-century Church of St George. Beaches here are either on concrete platforms or pebbly stretches, including the one at Medveja on the southern fringe. Lovran is also the starting point for hikes in the pine-covered hills of Učka nature park .

Where to stay Set on the slopes of Učka, about a 10-minute drive from Lovran’s centre, Hotel Draga di Lovrana (B&B doubles from £131) was built as a Habsburg hunting lodge in 1908 and has utterly breathtaking views of the Kvarner Gulf. There’s an outdoor pool and also one of the seven Croatian restaurants to hold a Michelin star. If you want to be within seconds of the Lungomare, sea-facing Villa Atlanta (from €55) has modern studio apartments and an outdoor pool surrounded by gardens.

Where to eat In the old town opposite the church, Lovranska Vrata has a lively terrace and serves shellfish platters and homemade seafood pasta. Najade on the seafront by the marina is a bit pricey, but you do get superb views to go with plates of grilled squid, scampi and sea bream.

Croatia will move to the green list for entering England on Monday 19 July. See the UK government website for details on traveling from all four UK countries.

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What NOT to do in Croatia: Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

Croatia is one of my favorite destinations on the planet. I’ve explored the country in depth and consider myself a Croatia expert. It’s heart-wrenchingly beautiful and an absolutely divine place to spend the summer!

Which is why it drives me crazy when I see travelers making big mistakes in Croatia — mistakes that I’ve learned the hard way during my own travels in Croatia. A list of what NOT to do in Croatia.

It’s okay if you make mistakes! I don’t expect anyone to know Croatia like a native, and mistakes often turn into great memories.

But my ultimate goal is for you to have a Croatia trip that you’ll remember fondly for the rest of your life. Follow these tips and you will be well on your way.

Here is my list of what NOT to do in Croatia!

Table of Contents

Assuming Croatia is in Eastern Europe.

The easiest way to piss off a Croatian is to tell them you visited because you’ve never been to Eastern Europe before. Yikes.

Eastern Europe is great. But Croatia is not Eastern Europe.

A lot of travelers tend to think that anything east of Germany is considered Eastern Europe. Not so. Central Europe is a huge region that doesn’t get enough attention as its own entity. While Eastern Europe includes countries like Romania, Latvia, and Ukraine; Central Europe includes countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary.

Some people refer to the countries of the Former Yugoslavia and Albania as the Balkans or the Western Balkans; I am one of them. The Balkans are also considered part of Central Europe.

(Then again, it can be complicated. Some Croatians reject the name “the Balkans” due to the history of war. Many Croatians prefer the term “the Adriatic.”)

Don’t expect Eastern European prices, either. It’s often said that if you want to save money in Europe, head east. And you can often get much better value for money in Central Europe than in Western Europe.

But Dubrovnik, Hvar , Rovinj, and Vis can be remarkably expensive. Like most other countries in Europe, the cheapest places tend to be in rural areas away from the coast. And if you’re looking for a cheap Croatia beach trip, you’re best off renting an apartment in an area more popular with Europeans, like the Makarska Riviera.

If you’re coming to Croatia for Eastern European prices, get ready for your eyes to pop out of your head.

Visiting Croatia by cruise ship.

If I had to pick out the single worst thing about tourism in Croatia, it would be the impact of large cruise ships. If I could wave a magic wand and make all the megaships disappear from Croatia, I would.

Croatia is a popular cruise destination, and there are many cruises from Venice to Greece that stop along the Croatian coast, particularly in Dubrovnik.

But in the last few years, megaship tourism has surged, and Croatian cities are too small to accommodate these crowds. They can’t handle an extra 3,000 to 6,000 on top of the regular travelers they get. Go to Dubrovnik on a July day and the old city will be packed from wall to wall with sweaty people.

If you’re on a cruise ship, this is the only way you’ll experience Dubrovnik — during the hottest part of the day with all the massive crowds. If that’s the only glimpse of Dubrovnik you get, I don’t blame you for not enjoying yourself. That’s the reason why it’s best to avoid Dubrovnik when cruise ships are in port and it was extraordinary exploring an empty Dubrovnik in summer 2020 .

Additionally, cruise ship passengers make a negligible economic impact on the destinations they visit. They don’t spend money on accommodation. They might not spend money on restaurants — why eat off the ship if it’s free on the ship?

That said — small sailing trips can be a wonderful way to see Croatia! It makes a much gentler impact on the environment, you spend more time in the ports and dock closer to town, and sailing the Adriatic is something you need to do once in your lifetime, even if it’s just for one day.

I did a sailing trip with Busabout that was a LOT of fun , though very much for young backpackers. (A great trip to take in my twenties, but I’ve aged out of that kind of trip. I’d go with G Adventures if I went today. You can see their Croatia sailing trips here. )

Just keep in mind that even with a small sailing ship, you’re on someone else’s schedule, not yours. You give up flexibility in exchange for that kind of trip.

Overall, you don’t need a tour in Croatia. It’s a very easy country to travel independently and you’ll be able to tailor a trip closer to your tastes if you rent a car and explore on your own.

Underestimating the steepness of the coastline.

On my most recent visit to Croatia, we started in the town of Bol on the island of Brač. We booked an apartment that was a bit further from the seafront because it was cheaper than the ones by the water’s edge.

Little did we know that walking back from the waterfront would be a 10-minute nearly-vertical uphill walk! And Bol was not the only place where we had that experience.

Croatia’s coastline is dramatic, jagged and mountainous. This steepness is why there are so many islands in the first place; it’s a world apart from the Italian side of the Adriatic.

And these old cities in Croatia are often not super-accessible. In Korčula , the old city itself is elevated like a wedding cake and accessible only by stairs. Rovinj is curvy and cobblestoned in addition to being steep. Even on the small island of Vis , parts of the town are walled off by steep inclines and staircases.

If you have mobility difficulties, Croatia can be very challenging. It’s not impossible to enjoy a trip here if you have mobility challenges, but I would do further research to make sure you’re able to get around easily.

And if you’re looking for a lazy trip without any multi-staircase climbs or trudges uphill, book accommodation close to the water!

Spending too much time in Split.

A lot of travelers choose to base in Split — and at first glance, it seems like a good idea. Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, home to the most flights in the country. It’s the main hub for ferries with easy access to lots of islands. It has a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Why not Split?

Well. It’s a big city. It gets horrendously hot in the summer. Diocletian’s Palace, which comprises much of the old city, is filled with price-gouging souvenir shops. And the only decent beaches are a ways away.

Split also tends to attract lots of wild, lads-on-holiday, drink-all-the-alcohol type travelers from within Europe.

Is Split worth visiting? Yes. Diocletian’s Palace is especially worth visiting, and it’s nice watching the sun go down on a square while having a glass of wine.

But Split is not the type of destination that travelers envision when planning a coastal holiday in Croatia. If you’re looking for a more peaceful atmosphere with nice beaches, the islands have more to offer. Zadar is lovely, too.

Someone on Reddit the other day asked for advice for their Croatia trip which had 10 days in Split and I spent a few hours convincing them to change their plans.

What’s the perfect amount of time to spend in Split? An overnight. I recommend arriving in the afternoon, exploring a bit, having a nice dinner, maybe dropping into a wine bar, and leaving in the morning by car or ferry . That’s all you need.

Getting around Croatia by public transportation.

Croatia is one of my favorite places in the world to explore by car. Seriously! Croatian roads are in excellent condition (though you do pay for that, with pricier-than-average tolls on the big highways), and the drivers are far more sane than their Balkan neighbors.

One of the pleasures of traveling around Croatia is stopping in randomly cute towns and pulling over to take photos of gorgeous viewpoints. And the drive along the Adriatic is one of the most stunningly beautiful journeys you can take! It’s much harder to enjoy that when you’re taking public transportation.

Some of Croatia’s islands, like Korčula, are good to explore by car. They’re a lot larger than you think. For example, it’s a 40-minute drive from Vela Luka to Korčula’s old town, and there are plenty of interesting places to explore along the way.

There are buses that criss-cross Croatia, and they’re in good shape. If all you need is a life from Split to Dubrovnik, you’ll be fine. Though keep in mind that island public transit is more limited.

Also: there are some trains in Croatia, but there’s no train to Dubrovnik. Lots of travelers come to Croatia expecting to be able to hop on a train to Dubrovnik, and nope, that doesn’t exist!

Dubrovnik will probably be the beginning or end of your trip, and you don’t need a car for your time in Dubrovnik. It’s a pain to park and it’s easy to get by with taxis.

Definitely rent a car. Make sure it’s an automatic if you don’t drive stick. And get ready for one of your best road trips ever!

Eating nothing but pizza and pasta.

When you say “Croatian food,” what comes to mind? Probably not much. And when you stroll through touristy areas, it seems like everyone is sitting down to pizza and pasta instead. Especially if you’re not a seafood eater.

There’s a lot more to Croatian food than you think! Superb fish dishes, enormous shrimp, squid ink risotto, pastas with Istrian truffles, rich grilled lamb, Pag cheese from the island of Pag. In Croatia I ate my weight in octopus salads and marinated anchovies!

But the single best food experience you can have in Croatia is enjoying a traditional peka, where dinner is cooked “under the bell.” You choose either veal and lamb or octopus, and it’s cooked under a bell in an oven for hours, with potatoes and other vegetables, until it becomes tender and glorious.

One of my all-time favorite Croatia experiences was attending a peka with  Dubrovnik Eat With Locals . You get to have dinner in a local couple’s backyard, share outstanding food with people from around the world, and you’ll leave stuffed with delicious food and grateful for new friendships. Marija and Zlatko are wonderful hosts.

And if you really want to blow your mind, head to Slavonia in the far northeast of the country and see what they have on offer. In the town of Osijek I enjoyed perkelt od soma , a stew of catfish cooked in tomatoes with lots of paprika, served with a side of pasta with bacon and soft white cheese. Then you put them both in a bowl and mix them together.

Only visiting one island: Hvar.

Hvar is the most famous of Croatia’s islands. It’s a lovely place — but it’s not the only Croatian island worth visiting, nor is it necessarily the best island for every traveler.

Hvar is perhaps most famous for its party scene. The partying is concentrated in Hvar Town with some clubs on the Pakleni Islands just off shore. Hvar is also home to some of the most high-end hotels and restaurants, particularly in Hvar Town.

As a result, Hvar is eye-waveringly expensive, and I don’t think the prices are worth it. I also wasn’t a fan of the trendy and wealthy party crowd that dominates in peak summer months.

There’s more to Hvar than just Hvar Town, though. I enjoyed Hvar more when I got outside the town. Maslina Resort is the most inspiring boutique hotel I’ve experienced. Jelsa was low-key and a good base for exploration. Canal-filled Vrboska was a lovely surprise.

So which Croatian island should you visit instead?

If you’re looking for a great all-around island with culture and interesting things to do, head to Korčula. Korčula packs a ton in, with history, island-hopping, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, hidden beaches, sword dancing, and some wine varietals you can’t find anywhere else. See my Korčula guide here.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled island, head to Mljet. You’ll enjoy an expansive national park, mountain views, and streets that are easy to explore by bicycle. And if sleepy Mljet is too active for you, head to remote, forest-covered Lastovo instead!

If you’re looking for an easy island vacation with young kids, head to Brač. Brač is the fastest and easiest island to get to from Split, and the Bol area is filled with nice beaches (including world-famous Zlatni Rat), a boardwalk, and tons of kid-friendly amenities.

If you’ve done Croatia before and you’re looking for something truly special, head to Vis. This island is small and far out — but it’s upscale and feels a world away from the mainland. There aren’t as many activities but it’s good for relaxing. See my Vis guide here.

Finally, if you want an unpretentious, low-key escape with lots of wine, head to Pelješac. It’s actually a peninsula, not an island, but it’s such a distinctive area that it deserves to be on this list. Come here to road trip, drink Dingač red wine, and enjoy spectacular beaches — maybe even some windsurfing!

Swimming without water shoes.

Are water shoes really necessary in Croatia? ABSOLUTELY. I don’t think I’ve worn water shoes in my life, ever, except in Croatia. But if you’re in Croatia, you will be so glad that you packed water shoes.

The vast majority of Croatia’s beaches are either pebble beaches or slabs of rock. And when I say pebbles, it’s more akin to large round rocks. Sandy beaches do exist here and there, many of them on the island of Rab, but rocks and pebbles are the norm. Even famed Zlatni Rat on Brač, commonly believed to be sandy, is made of rocks!

The first time you try climbing out of the water on a pebble beach without water shoes, you’ll be wincing and toppling over before crawling your way out of the ocean like Tom Hanks in Cast Away . It’s not fun — and you may make a spectacle of yourself to the more experienced Croatian beachgoers.

As for rock slab beaches, people often cut their feet by accident when they hit a sharp rock. Water shoes keep you from injuring yourself this way and leaving a trail of blood behind you.

You can get a pair here.

Day tripping to Bosnia, Montenegro, or Slovenia.

I LOVE the Balkans, and many cool international spots are within close proximity to Croatia. I completely understand the impulse to visit as many countries as you can on a single trip. But international destinations like Mostar, Kotor , and Ljubljana are much better if you stay overnight.

If you visit during high season, as most Croatia travelers do, you could be spending hours of your day trip waiting at the border. An eight-hour trip, three or four hours of it at the border? Not very fun.

During high season, you’ll be crossing borders twice in a single day. (And in the case of Mostar, four times, due to passing through Neum, the little slip of Bosnia that bisects Croatia.)

Mostar, an incredibly moving town in Bosnia, works better as an overnight trip from Dubrovnik. I stayed overnight in Mostar and nighttime was magical — all the day trippers left, the bridge was lit up beautifully, and the city felt so light and airy.

Montenegro is one of my favorite countries — I adore it there. Many travelers do a day trip to Kotor, but I recommend staying for a few nights if you can. (Just don’t get haunted by a ghost like I did.) There’s so much to see, from whitewater rafting in Tara Canyon to city-hopping in Budva and Herceg Novi to catching a glimpse of Sveti Stefan at sunset.

As for Slovenia, many people visit Ljubljana or Bled for a day from Zagreb . That’s doable, but I honestly think Ljubljana and Bled are charming destinations that deserve more time. (And frankly, I prefer Ljubljana to Zagreb.) Slovenia is a very compact country and you can see a lot in a few days .

Sticking to the coast and ignoring the rest of the country.

Croatia is known for its beaches and coastline. You could easily spend your whole trip on the coast, but there are some wonderful inland destinations worth visiting as well.

There are the Plitvice Lakes, of course — the waterfalls that dot many a Pinterest board, and the most famous pit stop between Zagreb and Split! Far and away the most famous nature getaway in Croatia.

Krka National Park also has spectacular waterfalls — with the bonus that you can actually swim in them!

Zagreb is a nice, fun Central European city. Worth visiting, but I don’t think you need to spend much time there beyond a walk through town and a visit to the superb Museum of Broken Relationships .

But best place to enjoy inland Croatia is Istria — the heart-shaped peninsula at the northwest of the country. Grožnjan is a hill town filled with music and art. Motovun is spectacular, erupting from the land and surveying everything around it. Vodnjan is filled with art, blood-red buildings, and ancient mummies. Just driving around Istria can be a lot of fun!

You’ve got plenty of options.

It’s okay if you make a mistake!

This piece is tongue-in-cheek — I don’t expect you to be what my idea of a perfect traveler is. God knows how many mistakes I’ve made, both in Croatia and around the world. Please don’t take everything as gospel!

But Croatia is a very special place. I want you to have the best trip possible there — and I think following these tips will give you a Croatia trip to remember.

Planning a Trip to Croatia:

• Two Weeks in Croatia Itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Croatia
• Solo Female Travel in Croatia: Is it Safe?
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime

Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:

• How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
• Why Korčula, Croatia, is the Coolest Island of All
• Vis, Croatia, is a Quietly Stunning Island
• Dubrovnik Survival Guide
• The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
• A Place Like Zadar
• 30 Fabulous Things To Do in Split, Croatia
• 29 Sunny Things To Do In Hvar, Croatia

Istria and the North:

• Guide to Rovinj, Croatia’s Prettiest City
• Places to Visit in Istria, Croatia’s Italian-Flavored Peninsula
• 21 Unforgettable Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia

More on What NOT To Do:

• What NOT to Do in Prague
• What NOT to Do in Italy
• What NOT to Do in Croatia
• What NOT to Do in Iceland
• What NOT to Do in Mexico
• What NOT to Do in New York City
• What NOT to Do in Boston

Have you been to Croatia? Have any mistakes to add?

Croatia Travel Guide

The jewel of the Adriatic! Croatia boasts pristine beaches, age-old towns, and a blend of tradition, cuisine, and historic marvels.

Best time to visit Croatia

Best places to visit in croatia, plitvice lakes national park: croatia’s most incredible waterfalls, 9 best things to do in hvar, croatia, rastoke waterfalls: discover the waterfall village of croatia, 9 best things to do on brac island, croatia, map of croatia, weather in croatia.

Following a Mediterranean climate, Croatia’s weather is fantastic, particularly between May and October! Spring and Autumn are prime seasons to explore, offering mild sunny temperatures and fewer visitors.

Cities in Croatia

15 best things to do in split, croatia, 9 best things to do in trogir, croatia, 13 best things to do in dubrovnik, croatia, 10 best things to do in pula, croatia.

Islands in Croatia

Kamenjak national park (croatia’s natural gem), visiting the medieval truffle town of motovun, croatia, 10 best things to do in rovinj, croatia, national parks in croatia, krka national park, croatia: travel guide to the waterfalls, how to rent a car in croatia, best travel insurances.

• Find Hotels via Booking.com
• Find Hostels via Hostelworld
• Find a Rental Car via Sunny Cars
• Find Flights to Croatia via Skyscanner
• Get a Travel Insurance via Heymondo
• Book Tours & Attractions via GetYourGuide
• Book a Bus/Train/Transfer via 12Go
• Get a Visa via iVisa
• How to pack light for your trip
• How to plan your trip our tips

Why is Croatia worth visiting?

Croatia is an absolute gem! From dreamy islands to historic cities, it’s a paradise for adventure seekers. Dive into sapphire waters, savor delicious cuisine, and soak up the Mediterranean sun.

Is Croatia cheap to visit?

Croatia has become more expensive in recent years due to its popularity, particularly in towns like Dubrovnik and Split; however, staying in self-catering accommodation, eating local, and visiting outside of the peak months can help you stay on a budget.

Can I drink tap water in Croatia?

The tap water in Croatia is high-quality and readily available, with beautiful water fountains dotted around many of the cities, so make sure to bring your reusable water bottle.

Do I need a visa for traveling in Croatia?

Most travelers don’t need a visa for Croatia for stays of up to 90 days. Check your country’s entry requirements in advance and make sure to have a valid passport ready for your Croatian adventure.

What language do they speak in Croatia?

While Croatian is the official language, English is like a second language to many who depend on tourism for their livelihood. Enhance your experiences by learning a few Croatian phrases, and the locals will warmly welcome your efforts to communicate in their language.

Do I need travel insurance for Croatia?

Travel insurance ensures peace of mind during your adventure through Croatia, protecting you from unexpected events. Hike through national parks, cliff jump off the rugged coastline, and kayak around beautiful islands with zero worries!

Is Croatia safe?

The crime rate in Croatia is low, and it is generally a very safe country for tourists. Exercise precautions as normal, and you’ll have an incredible trip filled with friendly locals and beautiful landscapes.

What power plug type does Croatia have?

Croatia primarily uses type C and F plugs, the European-style two-pin plugs with a voltage of 230V. Make sure to bring a plug adapter to keep you charged on the go!

Why do people love Croatia?

Commonly known as the Jewel of the Adriatic, Croatia is one of the best holiday destinations in Europe! With an incredible blend of natural beauty, historic charm, and warm hospitality, unforgettable memories are created here.

More Croatia

Visit the 7 best waterfalls in croatia, travel to croatia.

Croatia, the Jewel of the Adriatic, is a captivating European destination known for its stunning coastlines, picturesque islands, historic cities, and incredible national parks. As one of the greatest vacation destinations in Europe, Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences, from the ancient walled city of Dubrovnik to the lush Plitvice Lakes National Park . Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or beach enthusiast, there’s something for everyone, making for an unforgettable vacation in Croatia!

How to plan your trip to Croatia

Follow our Croatia travel guides to plan an unforgettable road trip in this Mediterranean paradise. There are so many amazing things to do in Croatia, including historic cities like Split , natural wonders like Krka National Park, and charming islands like Hvar.

Short on time? Tick off the highlights of Croatia with our ultimate 7-day travel guide , road-tripping through ancient fortresses, UNESCO valleys, turquoise shores, and waterfall villages .

Ready for an incredible holiday in Croatia? The weather varies by season, and choosing the best time to visit depends on where in the country you’re planning to see and the kind of vacation you’d like to have.

High Season (July – August): If you’re dreaming of sunny days and beachfront relaxation, consider visiting between June and August. These are the peak summer months, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and minimal rainfall. The coastlines are at their finest during this period, making it an ideal time for beach enthusiasts, and the party scene is at its best in Hvar , Brac , Dubrovnik, and Split for those looking for nightlife. This period brings crowds of tourists, so booking accommodations and tours in advance, particularly in well-traveled destinations like Dubrovnik, is definitely worth it.

Shoulder Seasons (May, June, September & October): If you prefer a more budget-friendly, less crowded experience, the shoulder seasons are generally the best times to visit Croatia. During these months, the climate in Croatia is pleasant, the tour operators and hotels are open, and the crowds are much more manageable in popular cities. May and June are also the best months to visit the National Parks when the lakes and waterfalls are flowing.

Croatia’s climate can also vary depending on the region. Central Croatia tends to be a little cooler than the coastal areas, so it is always worth packing layers if you plan to explore different parts of the country.

Whichever season you choose for your Croatia holiday, this beautiful country will not disappoint!

Coastlines and beaches in Croatia

Croatia’s coastline along the Adriatic Sea is a paradise. With a diverse range of beaches, from pebbly shores to secluded coves, there’s something to suit every traveler’s taste.

One of the best things to do in Croatia is to explore its stunning coastline, starting with the Dalmatian Coast. This stretch of coastline is famous for its crystal-clear waters and unique pebble beaches. Zlatni Rat, located on the island of Brač , is often referred to as the “Golden Horn” due to its distinctive shape and offers a picturesque spot for sunbathing and water sports.

For a blend of history and relaxation, Banje Beach in Dubrovnik is an amazing spot, only a 10-minute walk from the Old Town. With panoramic views of the city’s historic walls, it’s a unique spot to unwind and enjoy the Croatian sun. This spot is very popular, so come early to rent a daybed or find a spot on the nearby cliffs or visit Sveti Jakov Beach instead, a quieter spot in Dubrovnik closed off to boats, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re looking for a more tranquil getaway, hop on a boat tour around Hvar Island, exploring the secluded beaches, natural caves, swimming in the crystal blue waters of Budikovac Lagoon, and taking in the picture-perfect scenery.

Whether you’re seeking a relaxing vacation or a crazy backpacking adventure, Croatia’s coastlines and beaches are out of this world!

Food, culture and religion in Croatia

Dive into the heart of this Mediterranean gem, and you’ll discover warm hospitality, distinct regional cuisines, and prominent architecture from its religious influence.

Food: Croatian cuisine is a delicious blend of influences from Central Europe, Italy, and the Mediterranean. As you travel Croatia, your taste buds will be treated to an array of flavors. On the coast, you’ll find food similar to Greek, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines, with freshly caught seafood from the pristine waters and plenty of olive oil and fresh herbs. Further inland, food is known to be a little more hearty, with warming stews and decadent pastries.

Culture: Croatia has a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with red and white checkered items, known as šahovnica, the coat of arms, featuring everywhere throughout the country, highlighting how proud locals are to be Croatian.

Religion: Religion holds a significant place in the hearts of Croatians, with the majority of the population following the Catholic faith. This influence is evident in the beautiful churches and cathedrals that grace the country’s landscapes, from the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary in Dubrovnik, to St. Stephen’s Church in the small hilltop village of Motovun .

Why you should travel to Croatia

One of the best European vacation destinations, Croatia’s charm is endless, with sun-soaked beaches, captivating cities, pristine islands, and breathtaking natural parks. As you navigate its winding roads, you’ll encounter UNESCO-listed valleys, wander through Game of Thrones Croatia film sets, explore ancient fortress cities, visit breathtaking waterfalls , and relax on the beautiful shores.

The country’s diversity is the standout feature of the country. The Adriatic coastline, dotted with pebble and sandy beaches, offers a seaside paradise for sun-seekers. While the coastline may steal the limelight, picturesque cities like Dubrovnik and Split, with their well-preserved historical architecture, beckon history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Additionally, the numerous islands, such as Hvar and Korčula, provide an idyllic escape from the bustling mainland, offering a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. The national parks, including Krka and Plitvice Lakes, display cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and lush forests that provide a haven for nature lovers.

Croatia offers an enriching experience whether you’re a backpacking adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a sunseeker in search of the perfect vacation.

Safety and travel advice Croatia

Croatia is generally a safe travel destination, but it’s essential to stay informed about safety measures and travel tips when planning your trip to the country.

Natural Disasters: While Croatia is not prone to major natural disasters, occasional minor earthquakes and forest fires may occur. Additionally, heavy rainfall, particularly during the winter, can lead to localized flooding. To stay updated on potential emergencies during your trip, always follow the local weather and plan accordingly. Outside of the tourist areas, there may be unexploded mines from the past war, so always stick to marked paths.

Crime and Safety in Croatia: Overall, Croatia has a low crime rate. However, in crowded tourist areas, such as city centers and popular coastal destinations, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. It’s wise to leave valuables at your accommodation and stay vigilant in crowded places. There have also been several reports of crime in taxis, so if you’re traveling alone, it’s advisable to take a photo of the number of the taxi and send it to a friend or family member.

Traffic and Driving: In the busier towns and cities, Croatia can experience traffic congestion, particularly during the high season. If you plan to drive a rental car in Croatia, always pay attention to traffic signs and adhere to local driving rules. Also, be aware that it is illegal to drive with more than 0.05% of alcohol in your system.

Travel Insurance: It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your vacation in Croatia, ensuring peace of mind in case of unexpected events, such as hiking accidents or lost luggage. Find the best travel insurance to best suit your needs.

• Living In Croatia
• Croatian Recipes
• Balkan Recipes

Home > 32 Ways To Travel Croatia On A Budget & Save Money

32 Ways To Travel Croatia On A Budget & Save Money

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Traveling to Croatia doesn’t have to break the bank – and you don’t have to be a budget traveler to need to make your money go further. As someone who’s lived in this stunning country for 11 years, journeying from the northernmost points to the southern tips, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of Croatia as a travel destination.

Over the last 18-24 months, food and accommodation prices have surged by 30-50%, making budget-conscious travel more critical than ever. But don’t worry, I can help you save money.

In this guide, I’ll share insider tips and strategies to help you save money while still enjoying the best of Croatia – from its fantastic weather and friendly people to its breathtaking natural beauty.

With an increase in budget flights from across Europe, Croatia remains an accessible and attractive option for savvy travelers. Let’s dive into how you can experience popular tourist destinations in Croatia without overworking that credit card!

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Cost Of Items In Croatia (As Of Feb 2024)

• Coffee (at a café): €2 – €4
• Beer (local, at a bar): €3 – €5
• Pizza (in a restaurant): €7 – €14
• Sandwich (from a bakery or café): €4 – €6
• Ice Cream (per scoop): €2 – €2
• Seafood dish (at a restaurant): €11 – €30
• Gelato (per scoop in a tourist area): €2 – €3
• Pasta dish (in a restaurant): €8 – €17
• Bottled Water (0.5 liter): €2 – €3
• Soft Drink (in a café or restaurant): €2 – €4
• Local Wine (per glass in a restaurant): €4 – €7
• Cocktail (at a bar or nightclub): €6 – €12
• Petrol: €1.50 per liter

Transport Travel Budget Saving Tips

So, you need to get from point A to point B. So, how do you do that traveling to Croatia on a budget, as transportation costs add up fast?

1. Use The Extensive Buses Network In Croatia – The Cheapest Way To Travel

Croatia’s extensive bus network is a traveler’s dream, especially if you’re on a budget. With countless bus lines weaving through the country and even beyond its borders, getting around on local transportation has never been easier or more affordable. Forget the old image of crowded, uncomfortable buses. Today’s Croatian bus service is all about modern comforts and convenience.

These coaches come equipped with amenities that make road travel a breeze. Free WiFi? Check. Electric plug-ins? You got it. This means you can stay connected, charge your devices, and share those travel moments in real-time. The buses are designed with passenger comfort in mind – think headrests for a quick nap, more legroom (which, trust me, is a blessing), and ample space for your travel bags. Air conditioning keeps the summer heat at bay, and on-board toilets mean fewer pit stops.

Plus, most bus drivers speak English, so you’ll have no trouble getting tips or directions. Whether you’re hopping between major cities or venturing into lesser-known regions, Croatia’s bus network is a reliable, comfortable, and cost-effective way to travel.

So, grab a seat on the bus, enjoy the views, and let the road take you to your next Croatian adventure!

We recommend you book your bus tickets here.

The best part for me is that taking the bus allows you to relax and soak in all the beauty Croatia has to offer, and it’s the best option for budget travel in Croatia .

2. Find Budget Car Rental In Croatia

Of course, buses are not for everyone. Car rental can be inexpensive if you know two things.

• Are you looking to rent a car in Croatia without overspending? It’s definitely doable, and here’s how. First up, timing is critical – book your rental car early. Just like snagging the best seats at a concert, early booking often means better deals and more options to choose from. The early bird really does get the worm in the car rental game
• Now, about the car itself: think small. Smaller vehicles are not only more affordable in terms of rental costs, but they’re also more economical when it comes to fuel consumption – a win-win for your wallet. However, don’t forget to consider luggage space. Those charmingly compact cars are great until you realize your suitcase won’t fit. So, do a quick check to ensure there’s enough trunk space for your bags. This way, you balance cost-efficiency with practicality.

By following these simple tips, you can enjoy the freedom and convenience of having a car in Croatia without the high prices. Drive through the country’s beautiful landscapes and explore hidden gems at your own pace, all while keeping your budget in check.

• Car Rental & Driving Tips In Croatia

3. Use The Ferry Network

Exploring Croatia’s stunning coastline and islands doesn’t have to mean splurging on a sailing cruise or renting a yacht – which, let’s be honest, can really stretch your budget.

A wallet-friendly alternative?

Hop on a ferry!

Not only are ferries significantly more affordable, but they also offer a relaxed and scenic way to travel between islands. While a private yacht might give you luxury and exclusivity, ferry rides offer their own charm with the chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers. Plus, you can’t beat the feeling of the sea breeze on your face as you travel from one beautiful destination to another.

Ferries in Croatia are efficient and well-connected and offer a range of routes covering the most popular islands as well as some hidden gems.

The experience is straightforward – buy your ticket, hop on, and enjoy the journey. You’ll get to see the Croatian coastline from a different perspective, and who knows, you might even stumble upon a quaint coastal town you hadn’t planned on visiting.

This way, you get the essence of the Croatian maritime experience without the hefty price tag of a private charter. 

So, grab a ferry schedule, plan your island-hopping adventure, and get ready to explore Croatia’s islands in a way that’s both budget-friendly and full of local flavor!

We recommend you book your foot and car ferries with Ferryhopper in advance here.

• Guide To Ferries In Croatia

4. Go The Scenic Route On Your Road Trip

Embarking on a road trip through Croatia ? Here’s a savvy tip: skip the motorways and their tolls, and instead, embrace the scenic local roads.

Sure, they might add a bit more time to your journey, but trust me, the views are worth it. Plus, they’re 100% free, which is great news for your budget.

Croatia’s local roads snake through picturesque landscapes, quaint villages, and along stunning coastlines, offering a more authentic and immersive travel experience.

So, why rush on the motorway when you can take the road less traveled? It’s an opportunity to see Croatia through a different lens at your own pace. Plus, saving money on tolls means you can splurge a little more on experiences and treats along the way.

Grab a map, plot a course (for example, the old road from Zadar to Split ), and get ready for a road trip filled with memorable sights and experiences – the Croatian way!

5. Take A Private Transfer

Taking a private transfer in Croatia might sound like a luxury option, but it can actually be a savvy, money-saving move, especially if you’re traveling in a group.

Think about it – splitting the cost of a private transfer with friends or family can often work out to be as affordable, if not cheaper, than buying individual tickets for public transport. And let’s not forget the added benefits that come with it.

First off, private transfers offer a level of comfort and convenience that public buses can’t match.

The convenience factor is a major plus. Say goodbye to the hassle of dragging your luggage to bus stations and puzzling over bus schedules. And then, there’s the often-overlooked detail of getting from the bus stop to your hotel.

In many cases, this means hailing a taxi (and getting ripped off!), which adds extra cost and time to your journey. With a private transfer, these worries vanish. You get a direct, comfortable ride from your pickup point straight to your hotel door.

Private transfers offer a relaxed, air-conditioned journey, minus the overcrowded buses. They’re tailored to your schedule, providing the flexibility that public transport can’t match.

So, for a group exploring Croatia, opting for a private transfer can mean more time enjoying your trip and less time (and money) spent on navigating the logistics of travel. It’s a smart, stress-free way to move around and make the most of your Croatian adventure.

Get a quote on your private transfers here.

Brands we use and trust, croatia accommodation budget travel tips.

Finding the perfect place to stay in Croatia doesn’t have to drain your wallet. After years of exploring this beautiful country, I’ve learned that while hotels are great, there’s a whole world of budget-friendly accommodation options out there that help your tight budget.

From cozy local apartments to unique homes on Airbnb, these alternatives not only save you money but also offer a more authentic Croatian experience.

It’s true that Croatia isn’t overrun with international hotel chains, but that’s part of its charm. The ones that do exist tend to be on the pricier side. So, if you’re traveling on a budget, it pays to be savvy about where you stay. Hunting for deals on specialized booking sites early on can lead to some serious savings.

But there’s more to budget accommodation than just snagging a good deal. Here are some essential tips to help you find a great place to stay in Croatia without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first Croatian adventure, these insights will guide you to comfortable, affordable stays that enhance your travel experience.

6. Opt For Local Apartments Or Homes

While hotels have their charm, consider the more budget-friendly option of local apartments or homes available on platforms like Airbnb. If you are with a group, a two-bedroom apartment will cost way less than two hotel rooms.

These accommodations often provide a more authentic and cost-effective experience, allowing you to live like a local and save money. They come in all shapes and sizes, catering to different needs and budgets, and often include amenities that hotels charge extra for.

7. Search For Deals On Specialized Booking Sites

Croatia may not boast a plethora of international hotel chains, but the ones present can be pricey. To snag a deal, turn to specialized booking sites and keep an eye out for sales. These sites frequently offer discounts and special rates that aren’t available elsewhere.

8. Use Incognito Mode For Hotel Searches

A little-known trick: browse for hotels in incognito mode. This prevents dynamic pricing tactics from hiking up prices based on your search history, potentially leading to better deals.

9. Book Hotels Early

Many hotels offer early booking discounts, so get in there as soon as your travel dates are set. While these discounts are often available until the end of March, you might also stumble upon last-minute sales throughout the year.

10. Book Directly With Hotels

Don’t overlook the benefits of booking directly with a hotel. Contact them via their website or phone and inquire about discounts or all-inclusive options. Direct bookings sometimes unlock special rates not advertised elsewhere.

11. Stay Outside The City Center

Consider accommodations slightly outside the central part of the city. These areas often offer more affordable options and can give you a glimpse into everyday local life. Plus, a short walk or public transport ride easily connects you to the city’s main attractions.

12. Embrace Camping

For the more adventurous, camping is a wallet-friendly alternative to hotels. Croatia’s natural beauty makes it an ideal place to camp, offering a unique experience close to nature.

• Where To Go Camping In Croatia
• Where To Go Glamping In Croatia

13. Stay In Hostels

Hostels aren’t just for backpackers; they’re a great way to save a lot of money and meet fellow travelers. Croatia’s hostels range from basic to boutique, catering to different comfort levels and budgets.

• Cool Hostels In Croatia

14. Try Housesitting

For a longer stay, consider housesitting. It’s a cost-free way to enjoy accommodation, often in exchange for looking after the property or pets. This option lets you live like a local and truly immerse yourself in Croatian culture.

Skip The High Season & Save Money In Croatia

Planning a budget-friendly trip to Croatia? Timing is everything. Take a moment to step back and consider when you’re visiting because the season can make a massive difference to your wallet.

Tourism in Croatia has a distinctly seasonal rhythm. Peak season, running from July through August, sees prices skyrocketing. Everything from accommodation to activities can cost significantly more during these months. Even we locals tend to avoid traveling within our own country during this time due to the steep prices.

15. Come In The Shoulder Seasons

However, there’s a sweet spot for budget-conscious travelers: the shoulder seasons. Spring (April, May, and June) and autumn (particularly September) are ideal times to visit. Why? Firstly, you’ll sidestep the inflated costs of peak season. Accommodation rates drop, and you’ll often find great deals on activities and dining, too.

But the benefits go beyond just financial savings. Spring in Croatia brings warmer weather and fewer tourists, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. You can explore the country’s stunning landscapes and historical sites without the crowds, experiencing Croatia as the locals do.

September continues to charm with its pleasant weather, perfect for beach lounging and swimming. The sea is still warm from the summer sun, making it ideal for water activities. Plus, with fewer tourists around, you’ll get a more authentic feel of Croatian life.

So, if you’re looking to experience the best of Croatia without straining your budget, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons. You’ll enjoy moderate weather, fewer crowds, and, most importantly, a more affordable and authentic Croatian adventure.

• When Is The Best Time To Visit Croatia

Choosing The Right Location To Save Money In Croatia

16. Opt For Less Touristy Towns Over Hotspots Like Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, with its stunning Old Town and Game of Thrones fame, is a magnet for tourists, leading to higher prices. To keep your expenses in check, consider staying in areas outside the Old Town, such as Cavtat or Ston. These places offer the same captivating beauty but at a fraction of the cost.

• What To Do In Ston

17. Explore Affordable Alternatives To Split

Split is another popular destination , but nearby towns like Trogir or Omiš offer a more budget-friendly base.

These charming locations are less crowded and more affordable, yet close enough to Split for convenient day trips. Alternatively, Zadar, a lesser-known gem, provides a budget-friendly alternative with easy access to famous spots like Plitvice Lakes National Park . Use my Croatia travel guide to explore ideas for smaller towns around your desired destinations – these often hold the key to significant savings.

18. Stay Longer In Fewer Places

To keep your budget in check while traveling in Croatia, consider reducing the number of destinations on your itinerary. Constantly moving from town to town not only adds to travel stress but can also inflate your expenses.

19. Take Advantage Of Long-Stay Discounts

Many accommodations, ranging from hotels to private apartments, offer discounts for longer stays. By spending more time in one place, you can tap into these savings. This approach is particularly beneficial for budget-conscious travelers looking to reduce their accommodation costs.

20. Choose Strategic Bases For Exploration

Cities like Zadar , Zagreb, or Split make excellent bases for exploring smaller cities. These strategic locations allow you to cover a lot of ground with day trips. You can experience the diversity of Croatian landscapes and culture without the need to pack and move constantly.

• Where To Stay In Zadar
• Where To Stay In Zagreb
• Where To Stay In Split

21. Experience More By Traveling Less

Staying in one place for longer not only saves money but also lets you delve deeper into the local culture and lifestyle. You’ll have the time to discover hidden gems, form connections with locals, and truly immerse yourself in the Croatian way of life.

22. Be Efficient At Travel Planning

Plan your travel routes efficiently. By choosing nearby attractions and destinations for your day trips, you can minimize travel time and costs. This focused approach allows you to see more without the added expense of long-distance travel.

By embracing the ‘less is more’ philosophy in your travel plans, you can enjoy a richer, more relaxed Croatian experience while keeping your budget in line. This approach emphasizes quality over quantity, ensuring you get the most out of your Croatian adventure without overspending on transportation and accommodation.

Island Hopping In Croatia On A Budget

Are you dreaming of island hopping in Croatia’s Dalmatia or Kvarner Region? It’s more achievable than you might think. Contrary to popular belief, island hopping here can be done on a budget. The trick is to plan your itinerary smartly. Start by picking islands that match your interests and budget. The off-the-beaten-path islands often provide a more authentic experience at lower costs.

23. Set Your Own Itinerary

Flexibility is your friend when it comes to island hopping. Decide which islands you want to visit and for how long. This way, you can avoid the tourist traps and find hidden, more affordable spots.

24. Travel Necessities

Before you embark on your island-hopping adventure, ensure you have all the travel essentials. This means doing a bit of research and planning ahead to avoid last-minute purchases or rentals that can add unexpected costs to your trip.

• Croatia Packing List

25. Use Ferries Wisely

Ferries are a cost-effective way to hop between islands. Look for passenger tickets only, which are usually cheaper than bringing a car. 

26. Consider Off The Beaten Track Islands

While everyone flocks to Hvar and Korčula, islands like Solta, Vis, and Mljet offer a tranquil escape at a lower cost. These lesser-known islands can provide a more intimate experience of Croatian island life.

By choosing your location wisely and planning your island hopping with a budget in mind, you can enjoy the wonders of Croatia without spending a fortune. Whether it’s finding a quaint town near a major city or charting a course through Croatia’s beautiful islands, there are plenty of ways to save while soaking in the country’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.

Money Saving Tips For Food

27. Eat Like A Local

One of the best ways to save on food in Croatia is to eat where the locals eat. Avoid tourist-packed restaurants and, instead, find those hidden gems – we call them “konobas,” where traditional Croatian cuisine is served at reasonable prices. These places offer an authentic taste of the country’s culinary delights .

• Guide To Ordering Food In Croatia

28. Embrace Marenda

Many local restaurants offer ‘marenda’ or ‘gablec’ – a fixed-price meal typically including a main course, salad, a side, and sometimes dessert. These hearty meals are designed to keep you satisfied throughout the day and are a great way to enjoy delicious Croatian dishes without overspending.

29. Cook Your Own Meals

Utilize local markets in each town, which are overflowing with fresh vegetables, fruits, and other ingredients. If you’re staying in an apartment or a hotel with kitchen facilities, cooking some of your meals can be a huge money-saver. It’s also a fun way to immerse yourself in Croatian culture by trying out Croatian recipes like mine.

30. Smart Supermarket Shopping

Your budget can stretch further by shopping at supermarkets. Consider eating breakfast at your hotel or preparing it yourself, and pack picnic lunches for your day trips. This strategy allows you to save money for a more indulgent dinner, where you can savor the diverse flavors of Croatian cuisine.

31. Street Food and Bakeries

Don’t overlook street food and local bakeries for quick, tasty, and inexpensive meals. Items like ‘ burek ‘ or sandwiches are perfect for on-the-go eating and offer a cheap yet satisfying option.

32. Drink Croatia’s Tap Water

One often overlooked but significant way to save money in Croatia is by drinking tap water. It’s not just a cost-effective choice; it’s also a safe and healthy one. Croatia boasts exceptionally high standards of water quality. In fact, the quality of tap water in Croatia meets or exceeds all international safety standards , making it perfectly safe to drink.

Drinking tap water in Croatia means you can avoid the extra expense and environmental impact of bottled water. Almost everywhere you go, from Zagreb to Dubrovnik , the tap water is not only drinkable but also tastes great. This is especially handy during the hot summer months when staying hydrated is crucial.

So, remember to pack a reusable water bottle on your Croatian adventure. You can refill it throughout the day at any tap or public water fountain. This simple act not only saves you money but also contributes to reducing plastic waste, helping preserve Croatia’s natural beauty for future visitors.

Embracing tap water in Croatia is a smart, sustainable choice that’s good for both your wallet and the environment. Cheers to staying hydrated in a cost-effective and eco-friendly way!

6 Free Things To Do In Croatia 

While some major attractions in Croatia require you to pay a fee, there are still several amazing things to do for free.

Here are some suggestions for budget-friendly activities in Croatia:

Explore Croatia’s Best Beaches

• Best Beaches In Croatia

Hike Through Breathtaking National Parks

Croatia’s national parks are a haven for nature lovers and hikers. While some parks may charge a nominal entrance fee, it’s a small price for the immense natural beauty you’ll experience. Trails wind through lush forests alongside cascading waterfalls and offer stunning views – perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility alike.

• Guide To Croatia’s National Parks

Wander Historic Towns

Every Croatian town has a story to tell, and exploring these historic gems is absolutely free. Meander through the winding streets of ancient towns, soak in the architectural marvels and indulge in people-watching at bustling town squares. Each town offers a unique glimpse into Croatia’s rich history and culture.

Discover Local Markets

Local markets are not only great for picking up fresh produce but also for experiencing the vibrant local culture. Browse through stalls, sample traditional delicacies, and soak in the lively atmosphere – all without spending much.

Taking Free Walking Tours In Croatia

A fantastic and budget-friendly way to explore Croatia’s rich history and culture is through free walking tours. Offered in many Croatian cities, these tours are led by knowledgeable local guides who are passionate about their hometowns. While the tours themselves are free, it’s customary to tip the guide at the end, making this a great way to save money while still enjoying a high-quality tour experience.

Enjoy Free Cultural Events

Keep an eye out for free cultural events, especially during the summer months. From open-air concerts to street festivals, there’s often something happening that showcases Croatia’s rich cultural heritage.

• Events & Festivals In Croatia

Relax In Public Parks And Gardens

Croatia’s cities boast beautiful public parks and gardens, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. These green spaces provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

By focusing on these budget-friendly or free activities, you can enjoy the essence of Croatia without putting a strain on your finances. From its natural wonders to its historical and cultural richness, Croatia offers a plethora of experiences that don’t require a big budget.

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Wrapping Up: Smart Budget Travel In Croatia

Traveling to Croatia on a budget is not only possible, but it can also be an incredibly rewarding experience. The key is in the planning. By thinking ahead and being strategic about your choices, you can enjoy the best of Croatia without stretching your wallet too thin. Remember, it’s the smart choices, like when to travel, where to stay, and how to get around, that makes all the difference.

As you wrap up your plans for a Croatian adventure, keep in mind a few additional tips:

Embrace Public Transport

Croatia’s public transportation system is efficient and cost-effective. Buses and trains can take you across most of the country at a fraction of the cost of car rentals or flights.

Seek Out Local Advice

Don’t hesitate to ask locals for advice on where to eat, what to see, and how to get around. They often know the best deals and hidden gems that aren’t in guidebooks.

Travel Light

A lighter suitcase not only makes your journey easier but can also save you money on luggage fees for domestic flights or buses.

Be Flexible

Sometimes, being flexible with your travel dates and plans can lead to unexpected savings. Last-minute deals on accommodations or activities can offer great value.

Prioritize Your Experiences

Decide what’s most important to you. If you’re a foodie, save on accommodation so you can splurge on meals. If history is your thing, choose cheaper dining options to afford those museum entries.

Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean missing out. It’s about making informed choices that enhance your experience. Croatia, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, offers a wealth of opportunities for budget-savvy travelers.

So go ahead, plan wisely, and get ready to explore this beautiful country without breaking the bank.

• Is Croatia Expensive?
• Croatian Currency Guide
• How To Tip In Croatia
• How To Travel Turkey On A Budget
• How To Travel Greece On A Budget
• Budget Backpacking Guide To Albania
• Is Croatia Safe To Travel? Helpful Safety Tips

Comments (14)

Very informative and useful post! Thanks for sharing!

Great tips about nearby cities to Split!

Very informative article. Travelling on budget is a very hard. After reading this article one can easily travel on budget. thank you very much for writing this article. It will help medium status people to travel and enjoy best places in world. :)

Awesome tips! Specially for the transport, you gave great options. I didn’t know about the discount when buying tickets online!

Looking at the sailing itinerary via ferry that you posted and a few days in Zagreb to go to the park. Is it better to stay on the islands for a couple of nights at each island or go back to Split and just do day trips?

I would always recommend staying on the islands, it’s that way you get to know the island, and the people, food etc. And, of course spend less time in transit, and more time relaxing.

Do you have any locations in mind to recommend for my vacation?

Loads, look here: https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/croatia-travel-blog/

Your link to a 35 Euro discount for air b n b doesn’t work. It takes you to Justpack which is useless!

Oh no, what a mess. Sorry, try this one

Hello, Thankyou for this brilliant article. As we ended up having an expensive summer holiday last year we were unsure that we’d get to take our boys out of the UK this summer holiday but your inspirational article has given me some hope! Do you have any recommendations for a destination that would keep two teenage boys happy (10 & 13)? Somewhere out of main expensive cities and somewhere for an adventure? 😁

Glad you found it useful. If you want to explore Croatia out of the main cities, then you should head to continental Croatia. There is very cheap, and they have horse riding, lakes, biking, hiking, waterfalls, nature/national parks. Try this search on the blog to get an idea https://www.chasingthedonkey.com/?s=slavonia

is it true that prices have gone up in croatia?

YES! Croatia, like many countries, has experienced periods of inflation and rising prices and with the change over to euro it is now very different than a few years ago.

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The Cost of Travel in Croatia: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

After 12 years of travel and over 90 countries, I’ve come to the conclusion that Croatia is one of the most underrated travel destinations on the planet.

I’m slightly biased, of course.

When I first decided to set off on my round-the-world adventure, I decided Croatia would be the very first country on my itinerary.

It was an unusual choice, I know. Most travellers set off for Bangkok, London, Sydney, or Beijing to kickstart their gap years, but something about Eastern Europe fascinated me. I wanted to explore some of the lesser-visited parts of the continent in which I was born, and Croatia sounded like the perfect place to start.

It’s since held a special place in my heart as the destination that helped me gain my travel footing, and I immediately fell deeply in love with it.

What’s not to love? 

You’ve got gorgeous architecture to snap photos of, hundreds of islands to explore, the spectacular Plitvice National Park to wander around, underrated Zagreb for a city break, and some of the best beaches in the world. There are opportunities to sail the coastline, surprisingly fantastic cheese to eat, lovely locals, and so many beautiful landscapes that it’s hard to believe one country can offer up so much.

I originally planned to spend two weeks travelling around Croatia for my first visit, but after falling in love with the country, I quickly extended my stay to a full month. I hit up Dubrovnik, Split, Brac, Zadar, Pag, Zagreb, Plitvice, and Crikvenica over that time, and easily could have spent longer if I didn’t already have a flight to the other side of the world to catch.

I’ve since returned twice more to Croatia, and every time I do, I realise just how underrated a country it is.

I’ve been recording every single cent I spend in the countries I visit from day one of my travels because I want to prove that seeing the world is inexpensive and achievable. I want to be able to give a realistic and accurate look at how much you can expect to spend in each country you visit.

Today, it’s Croatia’s turn. I visited Croatia first of all as a solo backpacker, and then secondly and thirdly, as part of a couple on a mid-range budget. My costs have gone up during that time, both because my travel style changed and due to rising prices in general. Even so, as long as you’re not visiting in the height of peak season, Croatia still isn’t a crazy-expensive destination.

(As of the start of last year, Croatia adopted the Euro — not the Kuna — as its currency).

Here’s how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Croatia in 2024.

How to Save Money on Flights to/From Croatia

My European readers won’t have to worry too much about the cost of flights to Croatia, as the wide range of budget airlines means finding something affordable is never too much of a problem. As always, I recommend heading to Skyscanner  to snag yourself a bargain.

If you’re flexible with dates and itinerary, you’ll find the best deals by searching to flights to “Croatia” rather than an individual city, as you may find it’s far cheaper to fly into Zagreb over Dubrovnik, for example. It’s also worth setting your flight departure date to be across an entire month, which you can do with Skyscanner . This will show you the cheapest dates to fly and ensure you have the very best deal possible.

In general, you’ll find that it’s cheapest to fly to Croatia outside of high season, which coincides with typical European summer vacation dates (late June to late August). May and September are the shoulder season months, and October to March is the official low season, where you’ll find the lowest prices.

If you do have the freedom to visit during shoulder season, I highly recommend it, as it’ll mean spending less on flights and accommodation while having to deal with fewer tourists. Shoulder season is my favourite time of year to travel, and it’s worth making the effort to do so in Croatia.

What if you’re not European?

Well, unfortunately, there are only a handful of direct flights between North America and Croatia — you can fly from Newark to Dubrovnik — but that doesn’t mean you’ll have to spend an enormous amount of cash in order to get there.

Fortunately, getting to Europe from North America is surprisingly cheap these days, and I wouldn’t expect you’d need to pay more than around $400 for a return ticket. Allow me to introduce you to one of my favourite websites in the world: Secret Flying ! I’d estimate that 80% of the flights I book these days are due to a deal I’ve found on Secret Flying.

Once you’ve booked your flight to Europe, you’ll need to figure out how to get to Croatia for cheap, but that’s when Skyscanner comes back in! Europe is full of cheap airlines and getting from country to country is nearly always easy and inexpensive.

How to Save Money on Accommodation in Croatia

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Free Accommodation

Couchsurfing exists in Croatia, and allows you to stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and gaining their insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on the site .

Housesitting is another option. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while — I’ve even have friends who have landed housesitting gigs in a castle! Trusted Housesitters is my favorite site for finding housesits — it’s definitely worth taking a look to see if any listings match with your dates.

And finally, if you’re travelling long-term and don’t mind getting your fingers dirty, you could look at WWOOFing  or WorkAway as a way to cut down your costs while working on a farm in exchange for accommodation and food. It’s not the most glamorous of travel, but getting to live for free in a foreign country is an incredible experience, so if you’re backpacking around Europe, this may be the way forward for you.

Affordable Accommodation

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are hostels . In Croatia, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Croatia are slightly cheaper than equivalents in Western Europe, with the big exception being Dubrovnik over the summer, which is eye-wateringly expensive. You can expect to spend around €20-25 for a dorm bed in most spots in Croatia, with the price increasing to €30-40 a night on the popular islands, national parks, and more tourist-filled areas.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around €60 a night for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find there’s not much in it if you’d prefer a little privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.

If you’re an older traveller and put off by the thought of nights spent in hostels, you shouldn’t be! Private rooms are usually very quiet and clean, and most hostels are modern, safe, and centrally located. They tend to have a little more personality than generic hotels, and the staff are fantastic at offering kickass travel advice. As long as you check the reviews of any hostel before booking it to make sure nobody refers to it as a party hostel, you’re all good to make a booking there.

I use HostelWorld to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels and apartments, which will usually cost around €70-€100 a night for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location in shoulder season. I always use Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses in Croatia

As I mentioned above, I’ve visited Croatia during various stages of my travel career, both as a solo backpacker who was travelling on a shoestring budget and as part of a couple that was looking for all things private and mid-range. I’ve learned a lot about how to travel affordably through this country in the process.

I always like to share which accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine sucked. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money. On my most recent two-week trip around Croatia, I followed this itinerary:

Dubrovnik: 3 nights Split: 3 nights Zadar: 3 nights Plitvice: 2 nights Zagreb: 3 nights

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Croatia, listed in Euros:

Dubrovnik —  Apartments Sv.Jakov (€145 a night) : There’s two things you need to know about accommodation in Dubrovnik. The first is that it’s expensive, and the second is that staying inside the old town is extremely expensive. The good news is that Apartments Sv.Jakov solves both of those problems by being both affordable and accessible to the centre of town (a 15 minute walk from your room). But not only that, it also has one of the best views in the entire city and some of the best reviews of any property. Throw one of the friendliest owners in the country in the mix and you can see why I’m gushing its praises. This is an excellent option for Dubrovnik.

Split —   Apartment Citadela (€110 a night) : Split is full of expensive hotels. In fact, you’ll struggle to find a stay in one for under €200 a night. I recommend Apartment Citadel because it’s half the price of the hotels, receives incredible reviews, and right in the heart of town — it’s a truly fantastic location! And you’ll have access to a kitchen, too, to help you save money on meals.

Zadar —  Harvey’s Luxury Rooms (€55 a night) : This is a no-brainer when it comes to accommodation in Zadar! It’s inexpensive, in the centre of the old town, close to tons of excellent restaurants (I recommend Kantuna), and a super-accommodating owner. With some seriously nice furniture providing decoration in the rooms as an added bonus, you really can’t go wrong.

Plitvice Lakes National Park —  Lake House   (€55 a night) : I loved both of my stays at Lake House in Plitvice Lakes National Park and have sent so many of my readers there since visiting! I chose this place because it’s easily the best-rated accommodation that’s close to the park, and it’s pretty affordable too. It didn’t disappoint. You’ll likely spend most of your time walking in the park, but when you’re at the house, you’ll be greeted by lovely staff, presented with a filling breakfast, and marvel at the fresh air. That’s one of my lasting memories of the area Lake House is in: how peaceful the surroundings were, and how healing the clean air felt.

Zagreb — Embassy Row B&B (€160 a night) : It’s rare to check out the reviews of accommodation and find yourself greeted with a wall of 10 out of 10s, but that’s exactly what drew me to Embassy Row B&B. If there’s a better spot in Zagreb, I’d be seriously surprised. What I love about this place is the lavish, fresh breakfast, the great location, and the wonderful owner. Nadia is kind, friendly, welcoming, and only too eager to give recommendations on how to make the most of your time in the city. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else.

How to Save Money on Transportation in Croatia

Transportation is fairly inexpensive in Croatia, so you won’t need to worry about it upping your travel budget by too much. The best, easiest, and cheapest way to travel around the country is by bus or ferry.

Domestic buses will take you pretty to much anywhere you need them to, and are fast, comfortable, and modern. You can expect your ride to come with power sockets and Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and large, spacious seats, making it a no-brainer to go for the bus over anything else.

If you book your bus tickets in advance through Arriva , you can save 5% on the price of your ticket by using the app, and not have to worry about the bus being full.

If you’re anything like me, though, you can’t imagine visiting Croatia and not  spending time on some of its gorgeous islands (my personal favourites are Brac and Pag). In this case, you’re going to want to hop on a ferry to get from the mainland to paradise. You can find a map of the ferry routes on CroatiaFerries  — and most ferries run at least once a day in peak season.

Keep in mind that if you’re going to be renting a car in Croatia, you’ll pay quite a bit extra to take it on the ferries, so it may work out cheaper for you to find somewhere to park for free before heading to the islands on foot. On average, you can expect to pay €15-20 a day to hire a small car in Croatia depending on the time of year and where you collect it from.

When it comes to hiring a car to drive around Croatia, you shouldn’t feel intimidated. Even my parents managed a two-week road trip around the country without any hassle, and said it was a far more peaceful experience than driving in nearby Italy! I always hire a car through Discover Cars : a comparison search engine that brings up the best deals from all the popular providers; I always seem to score the cheapest deals through their site!

As always, you’ll have far more independence if you decide to drive through Croatia, as you’ll be able to stop off whenever you feel like it, take detours to tiny villages, and stop at spectacular viewpoints to take photos whenever you want. This is a country that rewards those who venture off the beaten track, and hiring a car is the easiest way to do so.

Parking is going to be your main issue when it comes to driving in Croatia. Many of the popular tourist destinations are pedestrianised, so you may find yourself driving around for half an hour in search of a parking space. If you’re happy to park up at your accommodation and then take public transport or walk, you’ll have a much easier time of it.

You can also hire scooters in Croatia, so if you’re competent on two wheels, you may want to opt for this instead! You’ll pay less to hire them and won’t find parking as difficult either.

Flying is typically expensive and time-consuming, so you’ll want to skip out on that if at all possible. You’ll save money and see a lot more of the country by travelling overland.

Here are some of the typical transportation costs you can expect to run into while in Croatia:

• Bus from Dubrovnik to Split: €22,10
• Bus from Zagreb to Zadar: €11,90
• Bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes: €14,90
• Bus from Zagreb to Pula: €26,20
• Ferry from Dubrovnik to Hvar: €45 
• Ferry from Dubrovnik to Brac: €45
• Ferry from Split to Brac: €20

How to Save Money on Food in Croatia

Food can be expensive in Croatia, but there are plenty of ways to cut costs while you travel around this beautiful country.

Cooking is always going to be more affordable than eating out, so if you’re willing to sacrifice some restaurant meals on your vacation, this is a great way to keep on track with your budget. Hostels will usually give you access to a shared kitchen, and if you’re opting for an apartment, check that it has a kitchen and at least basic cooking facilities. If that’s the case, you can head to a local market (a great cultural experience) and stock up on fish, vegetables, and fruits, to spend far less on your meals than you would at a restaurant.

Many hotels offer free or discounted breakfasts, so if that’s the case, I always recommend eating later in the morning and eating a lot of food, as you may find you’re too full to have lunch. If that’s not the case, then I recommend going for a larger lunch and a smaller dinner.

Most restaurants charge less for their lunch menus, even though they’re serving the exact same meal for lunch and dinner. If you can eat a bigger meal for lunch, you can then get by with a much smaller one for dinner and save money through doing so.

In general, you should expect to spend the following on each meal:

Breakfast:   €6.50  each for bacon and eggs;  €9-11  each for something in a hipster cafe.

What can you expect from breakfasts in Croatia? If you’re looking for something cheap and simple, you can’t go wrong with pašteta (pate) on bread. Bread and spreads are commonplace in the country, whether it’s margarine, the aforementioned pate, cheese, jam or Nutella. Often, these will be accompanied by cold cuts of meat, such as ham, prosciutto, and salami.

In cafes, you’ll regularly be able to pick up some burek, a savoury pastry containing meat, cheese, or vegetables. Pair it with a serving of yoghurt and you’ve got yourself a traditional Croatian breakfast!

Beyond that, you’ll be able to find those standard omelettes, oatmeal, full English breakfasts, and croissants that you can get across the continent, either served up in your accommodation or up for grabs in a cafe in town.

Lunch: €7  each for a sandwich/slice of pizza from a deli with a soft drink

Lunches in Croatia can be delicious and large. Croatians prefer to have a larger meal for lunch and a smaller portion of food for dinner, so loosen up those waistbands and prepare yourself for a true feast! You’ll typically kick things off with some soup to start, then follow that up with some slow-roasted meat, which is practically guaranteed to be so tender that it’s falling off the bone, accompanied by potatoes and vegetables.

Dinner: €15  each if you’re on a budget,  €25  each for a mid-range restaurant,  €50+  each for something higher-end.

One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll often be given freshly-baked bread, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar with lunches and dinner in Croatia, so you should aim to take full advantage of this. Seriously — this was one of my culinary highlights from Croatia. Most of the time it was free with the meal and so ridiculously tasty.

What about tipping? In most restaurants you’ll frequent, tipping will be welcome but not in any way expected. So don’t panic — it isn’t seen as offensive if you don’t tip! And likewise, it won’t be viewed as offensive if you do. Expect to pay 10-15% in any fancy restaurants you head to, but anything laidback and local won’t require you to pay extra.

I don’t often have much success with this suggestion, but I do recommend keeping an eye on your drink consumption while travelling in Croatia. Alcohol is obviously a big budget buster on the road (and Croatian wines can be quite pricey in restaurants), so if you’re happy to substitute the sodas, juices, and booze for tap water, you’ll save a ton of money. And yes, the tap water is free and safe to drink in Croatia, so you really don’t need to worry about buying bottled water.

If you’re determined to jump headfirst into the Croatian food scene and don’t want to spend your vacation cooking, you should look to eat at the konobas and pizzerias as opposed to the fancier restaurants.

Konobas are small family-run restaurants that offer big dishes and low prices, and sometimes even family-made wine. If in doubt, avoid anywhere with white tablecloths and a big English menu outside, because that means it’s set up for tourists and charging more. Delis are great options for lunches, as they offer sandwiches for low prices.

You can always ask the locals for food recommendations, too! Ask at your accommodation for recommendations on the best budget eats, or simply walk around and see which restaurants are full of locals. In the case of the more tourist-filled cities, like Dubrovnik, you’ll find that just walking a couple of blocks outside of the Old Town is all you need to do to find cheaper prices in restaurants.

Here are some typical prices of food and drink in Croatia to help you budget better:

• Pint of draught beer:  €3-5
• A bottle of house wine in a restaurant:  €23-50
• A slice of pizza: €2.50-5
• Sandwich from a deli for lunch: €3-5
• A 30 cm pizza for dinner: €8-15
• Seafood dish in a fancy restaurant:  €30-50
• Cappuccino in an expat area of town:  €2-3
• Litre of milk:  €1-1.50
• A loaf of bread:  €1.50-2.50
• 10 eggs:  €2.50-3.50
• 1 kilogram of tomatoes:  €2-3.50
• 1 kilogram of potatoes:  €0.80-1.40
• A 1.5l bottle of water:  €0.90
• A risotto for lunch:  €12-20
• A steak dinner: €20-30
• Famous Croatian lamb from the spit: €15-30
• A gyros for lunch:  €5-8
• A local meal from a konobos for dinner with wine: €20-35 each
• A three course meal and wine in a high-end restaurant in Dubrovnik:  €70-100+

How to Save Money on Activities in Croatia

We’ve covered accommodation, transportation, and food, but let’s face it: you’re not going to have the trip of a lifetime if you skip out on entrance fees and activities! Here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the costs you’re likely to encounter while travelling around Croatia. Note that prices for many attractions go up a lot during peak season: I’ve given a range where that’s the case.

• Walking the city walls in Dubrovnik: € 15-35
• Entrance to Plitvice Lakes National Park: € 10-40
• Entrance to Krka Waterfalls National Park: € 7-40
• A Game of Thrones-themed walking tour in Dubrovnik: € 25
• Entrance to Pula’s amphitheatre : € 10
• Sea kayak tour at sunset with snack and wine in Dubrovnik: € 45
• A day trip to Montenegro from Dubrovnik: € 60
• Skip-the-line entrance to the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb: € 7

If you’re in Split for a few days, be sure to grab a free SplitCard from a tourist information centre. Visitors staying five or more nights in summer, or two or more nights in winter, are entitled to the card for free, and get discounts on everything from museums and galleries to excursions and restaurants.

If some of the above prices are just too much, there are plenty of free activities in Croatia as well. I know that I had a fantastic time simply wandering through the old towns, exploring local markets, sunbathing on beaches, and making the most of the museums that don’t charge for entrance.

While, for example, you’ll get a great view of Dubrovnik by walking the city walls, you could be just as satisfied by walking the streets of the old town, as it’s as beautiful from the ground as it is from above. If you love beaches, you’ll save money on activities by lounging out on the sand/pebbles rather than jumping on a banana boat or hiring some snorkelling gear.

Markets are always a great way to get a taste of the local culture without spending any money, and simply heading out for a stroll through some of the more local neighbourhoods will introduce you to lesser-visited parts of the country. Yes, if you’re looking to save money on activities, my biggest recommendation is to walk everywhere — Croatia is so beautiful that there’s always something wonderful to see.

If, like me, you love taking tours to get to know a country better, I recommend heading to Get Your Guide for inspiration — it’s where I book all of the tours I take. They have a whole range of activities and tours available, like  day trips to Bosnia  ( € 82 ) or Slovenia  ( € 120 ) to boost your country count, a Game of Thrones tour in Split  ( € 35 ), and an island-hopping trip to five Croatian islands ( € 105 ).

Miscellaneous Items to Buy for a Trip to Croatia

A Croatia guidebook : A guidebook will give you an in-depth look into Croatia’s culture, suggest the perfect itineraries for the amount of time you have, and offer recommendations for where to eat and what’s worth doing. I like Lonely Planet guidebooks, and have a wide selection sitting in my bookcase as I write this!

A dry bag :  Croatia is all about the water, so I highly recommend packing  a dry bag  to take with you. A dry bag has saved me while travelling on so many occasions:

• On a kayaking trip from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Nok, a freak wave splashed over me, as well as my camera and phone. Had I not had them in a dry bag, the water damage would have likely destroyed them.
• On a ferry ride in Thailand, the boat sprung a leak and began to sink. I was able to put my laptop, camera, hard drive, passport, and money in my dry bag, seal it up, and know that they’d stay safe and dry if the worst were to happen.
• I chartered a yacht in Greece and relied heavily on my dry bag while I was there. When mooring in tiny bays, I was able to fill my dry bag with my camera, towel, and sunscreen, jump in the sea, and swim to the nearest empty beach without worrying about keeping my belongings dry.
• I also think dry bags are fantastic for solo travellers on beach days. It’s tough going to the beach when you’re travelling alone because you’ll need to bring nothing with you, risk getting robbed while you’re in the ocean, or stay on the sand at all times. If you have a dry bag, you can fill it up with your valuables and take it for a swim with you, rather than leaving them on your towel and hoping nobody will grab them.

I love all things Sea to Summit, and after trying several of their dry bags out, my champion is the  Ultra-Sil 8L  — it’s durable, thin, lightweight, and has never let me down.

Travel insurance: If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Croatia. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  €1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

SIM cards and eSIMs : Assuming that you’re like me and want to have a working phone as soon as you arrive (did you even go to Dubrovnik if you can’t send photos of it to everyone you know?), you’ll want to buy an eSIM before leaving home.

I use aloSIM these days: prices are good and I’ve found their speeds to be faster than the other companies I’ve used. It costs $15 (€14) for 5GB of data that lasts a month, or $24 (€22) for 10GB, and you get a 5% discount by using the code FOOTSTEPS.

If your phone can’t use eSIMs, a tourist SIM card with unlimited data from T-HT costs €10 for ten days. If you’re staying longer, a card with 70GB of data that lasts for a month is €11.95 . You’ll need to find a phone store in whichever city you arrive in to buy them, though: they’re not available at the airports.

Don’t forget that if you live in another EU country, you should be able to roam for free with your normal phone company.

How Much it Costs to Travel in Croatia

I always like to share my own personal expenses when travelling in a country, as I think it helps you figure out what you should be expecting to pay each day while you’re there. A list of expenses is great and helpful, of course, but putting them all together in order to come up with a reasonable estimate can be trickier.

Because prices have risen recently in Croatia, I’m only using the costs from my most recent trip. Here’s what I spent!

Accommodation: €109 per day  (shared between two = €54.50 each) Transportation: €9 per day Food: €34 per day Activities: €36 per day

My average daily cost of travel in Croatia is therefore: €133.50 per day .

Related Articles on Croatia 🧳 How to Pack for a Trip to Croatia ☀️ 30 Incredible Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia 🇭🇷 20 Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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82 comments.

Dude, this guide is fantastic!

If I were there, I would have a really hard time leaving! I understand why you extended your initial trip by a few weeks.

Right?! The longer I spent in Croatia, the more I wanted to see. You could spend months just travelling up and down the coastline.

Hello! I do not think that this is nice: ‘I usually recommend not staying in an entire Airbnb apartment’. You should know, that most of the people on the coast and on the Islands, live from renting apartments, from 30 euro and up and also, when you stay in apartment you can save a lot of money for food (not 23 euro a day for shore). So you help local people and you save money at the same time. 😊

Wish you a nice day. Valentina

Airbnb is destroying cities and towns around the world, and having seen this destruction first hand, I am not comfortable recommending my readers to stay in Airbnb apartments. You help the locals who own properties, sure, but you fuck over everybody else who now can’t afford to pay rent because everything in their town is now an expensive Airbnb apartment. It raises the prices of accommodation for locals.

So sorry, I believe staying in Airbnb apartments is an unethical practice and I don’t support it. Do you own an Airbnb apartment?

Thanks Kris! :)

I wasn’t sure about visiting Croatia later this year, but the photos in this post now have me convinced! It looks like a very beautiful country. One small suggestion I have is that it would be useful if you could share some of the costs of food and drink so that we can create a travel budget with more ease. Appreciate all of your tips in this very useful post.

That’s a great suggestion, Kimme! My posts are always a work in progress, so I love receiving feedback on how they can be improved. I’ll get working on that today :-)

Great advice! My question to you is where would you recommend going in Croatia if you had just two weeks in August and a small budget? Thank you

Hmmm. If it was me, I’d do the following:

3 nights in Zagreb 2 nights in Plitvice 3 nights in Zadar 3 nights in Split 3 nights in Brac

And then back to Split to fly out. I’d avoid both Dubrovnik and Hvar as they’re going to be very expensive over summer.

Wow! Holy Moly. It’s my dream to see a landscape like the ones you’ve shared in this post. I haven’t been to Europe before (I live in the USA) so I have other countries at the top of my bucket list before Croatia but this is making me think I need to visit Croatia too. There’s too many places in this world to see!

I definitely understand that, Sheryll. But while Western Europe often receives all of the glory, there are parts of Eastern Europe that are just as beautiful. I hope you make it to both sometime soon :-)

Well I was so pleased with my Italian Lake photos until I saw these!!! Awesome

Thanks, Dad! :-)

Hi! I will be there in Croatia in the middle of August. Appreciated this guide as it helped me understand how much I will spend when there. Should I not go to Dubrovnik in August because it will be busy/costly?

Kind regards

Hmmm. Well, I really liked Dubrovnik, but it was packed in the summer months! It’s a beautiful spot and there’s a reason why it’s so popular with cruise ships and tourists, but you have to weigh up whether that beauty is worth spending a lot of money and dealing with a ton of crowds. If you can afford it, go for it. If you’re worried about the costs, choose to go somewhere like Split instead.

Wow, easily the best guide to Croatia I’ve seen today. Thank you for putting all of this information together, very useful. I plan to visit Croatia in April so I’m releaved to see it won’t be too expensive at that time of year.

Thank you so much, Ofelia! That means a lot. I hope you have a wonderful trip :-)

Really appreciated that you included everything in this post, Lauren. I’ve just bought the dry bag you recommended, as it sounds like a lifesaver!! Any thoughts on yacht week in Croatia? Costs, etc?

Thanks Jordan :-) I actually have a couple of friends who did yacht week in Croatia and they said that if you’re not really into partying it’s not a great option. They’re definitely pretty chill and found they didn’t really vibe with the people on their boat who were all about drinking and hooking up.

In terms of costs, well, I haven’t actually done it myself, but from a quick look online, it looks like it’ll cost around $4,000 for the yacht for a week, although you’ll be splitting that with a bunch of people, so it might not work out to be that expensive.

Hope you have a great trip if you do decide to go. You’ll have to let me know what Yacht Week is like!

Wonderful post, Lauren, coming from a Croatian. I wonder though have you visited islands like Hvar or Brač and checked their beautiful sunsets. Btw, I’m impressed with your knowledge about places you visit and some details that even I wasn’t aware of. You’ve done your homework, girl!

Thanks Mimo!

I spent a few days in Brac, and also visited Pag too. Didn’t get a chance to see many sunsets there though!

WE LOVE CROATIA! Great post Lauren. Covers everything I could say and more about the cost of travel in Croatia. Cracking read. Great. We celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary in Split and have been returning every two years ever since. Love it. If anyone’s reading this and debating whether to go or not, I say do it! One of my favorite countries.

Wow, what a recommendation! Split sounds would be a pretty perfect place to celebrate an anniversary.

YES! I love Croatia and I love this post, Lauren. I agree that it’s more expensive than other countries in the Balkans, but it’s still a lot cheaper than countries in Western Europe. One thing I couldn’t believe was how expensive it was to walk the city walls in Dubrovnik. Not worth the money imo.

Yeah, seriously. Dubrovnik as a whole can be pretty over-the-top expensive — it was a bit of a shock to the system when I landed on my first day of my big trip and was like whoa, my money is not going to last as long as I thought . Fortunately, everywhere else in Croatia was much more affordable, and let’s face it: Dubrovnik is pretty special, so it’s worth the expense to a lot of people.

OMG I really can’t wait to get to Croatia etc one day – so awesome hun =)

You’d love it here!

This has me looking at flights to Croatia based on those stunning photos alone! I’m a mega GoTs fan so the fact that you mentioned all of those tours is so exciting. I’d love to see all of the filming locations, and then the beautiful beaches will just top it all off nicely.

You know I haven’t ever watched Game of Thrones before? A big oversight of mine! But I know that my friends who love the show have had so much fun geeking out over all the filming locations in Dubrovnik and Split. I hope you decide to book a flight to Croatia!

So many great tips in this article. You’ve made planning this trip so much easier. I now feel like I can visit Croatia on the cheap while retaining some comfort levels. Looking forward to trying to food after you have sold it so well. Thanks.

Hey, thanks so much! Enjoy all of that fresh and tasty seafood for me :-)

I really didn’t know much about Croatia until I stumbled across this post. Fantastic! You’re really selling it to your readers and now I’m trying to work out if I can squeeze in a visit before the end of summer.

Ooh, I hope you can! September would be a really good time to visit, as there aren’t many crowds and the prices are starting to drop.

I’ve been to Croatia numerous times from AUSTRALIA as I’m addicted to the country, easily one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s the sort of place that you don’t need landmarks and sites because the atmosphere, nature, beauty, medieval feel , smells, sounds just make this place heaven on earth for me. One of my most amazing sights was driving to our base on the beautiful island of Murter from a late night clubbing. It was 5.30-6am approx in the morning and the sun was coming up as we were crossing from the mainland to the island via bridge and at that moment the colours an beauty of the place overwhelmed me. I have seen many beautiful sunsets in Croatia, what makes them amazing is the deep red and orange colours. I’ve never seen them so vivid anywhere and I’ve been half way around the world.

I totally agree with you about the sunsets! Some of the best I’ve ever seen were while travelling in Zadar. Incredible colours!

Thank you so much for putting this together. I have been trying to work out where to go with my boyfriend on holiday next week and I think I’ve just settled on Croatia. Your post made it really easy to decide with all of the photos and information on how to travel there on a budget. I love your style of writing as well.

Thanks so much, Charlotte! You’re going to have an amazing trip :-)

If you could travel to Croatia during any month, which would you choose? Taking into account the weather, the crowds, and the prices. I’m thinking May or September is probably best? Do you have strong feelings either way?

I’d probably go for September, just because there’s a school holiday in May that might clash with your travel dates and could push the prices up. For weather, as well, the average temperatures in September are around 25, compared to 22 for May. So not a huge difference, but 25 is a little nicer in my eyes.

I don’t really think you’d regret going for either month, but I’d probably choose September.

Amazing blog Lauren. What do you recommend for a solo traveler to Croatia btw? Should I stay in hostels and is it safe? Did you get lonely on your own or is it easy to meet people? I know I need to just get there and experience it for myself but its always intimidating to go to a new place by yourself.

Croatia is super safe! You really don’t have to worry, Emma. I never once felt in danger over my six weeks in the country, and found it easy to meet people in hostels. I’d recommend staying in them as a solo traveller if you’re looking to meet people — you could always stay in a private room if you’re not down for sleeping in a dorm.

Thank you so, so much for this detailed breakdown Lauren. Can I ask which islands you’d most recommend visiting if you have two weeks in Croatia? Are you missing out if you don’t spend much time on the mainland?

Fun question! One thing you could do is to fly into Dubrovnik, and then take the ferry up to Hvar and Brac, then fly out of Split, so that way you’d get to see some of the mainland as well as the islands. Korcula is another great option for an island that’s close to Hvar and Brac if you want less time on the mainland.

I personally really like the mainland spots in Croatia, and think they have just as much to offer as the islands, but it really depends on what you’re into. If you love beaches, they tend to be better on the islands. If you’re into mountains and villages, I think the mainland has better options.

Thanks for the wonderful tips! I’m thinking of going to Croatia from the US, possibly this coming April or May. What do you think about traveling there in April, mainly due to the weather and accessibility to shops, museums, attractions, etc.? Also, are you familiar with any tours offered that you could recommend as I may be traveling alone (I’m in my early 60s). Thanks!

Hi Lauren. It’s such an awesome article you built. I appreciate. I am looking for a suitable market for pets and precious stones in Croatia. Please if you have an idea how I can go about this let me know. Thanks

Ah, sorry, I’m afraid I really don’t know!

Thanks Lauren! This was really helpful in planning a daily budget for our delayed honeymoon/1 year anniversary trip there in September. We are flying into Naples and staying on the Amalfi Coast before driving across to fly from Bari to Dubrovnik. Then I planned Dubrovnik to Hvar, to Brac, to Markarska, to Split then fly to Venice then home:( . Does this seem like a good itinerary? I would’ve loved to make it up north more but maybe another trip. I cannot wait!!! Any advice is greatly appreciated.

This information is great. Is it possible to see Croatia in a week?

For a week, I’d suggest picking either the north or the south. So for the south, you could check out Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar/Zadar. And for the north, you could go with Zagreb, Plitvice, and Pula/Rijeka/Zadar. Or just choose two places for each, if you want more of a relaxed holiday.

Both itineraries would give you a good feel for the country, and I’d be happy doing either :-)

Hi Lauren Your experience and information is amazing…thank you so much.

We are traveling to Dubrovnik on our way to Rome but only have 2 days. Is there a self guided walking tour map of some of the movie sites in Dubrovnik? We are renting a car and would love to see the non tourist beach you picture in your blog. Is there a name or information on how to get there?

Thank you so much and I hope you get to feeling better

The beach in that photo is Podrace Beach, in Brela. It’s unfortunately probably going to be too far for you to drive out to from Dubrovnik. For the filming locations, your best bet is just to google around. For example, this post is super detailed for Game of Thrones, with a map included: https://hellojetlag.com/dubrovnik-game-of-thrones-locations/ — there should be be similar guides for movies that have been filmed there, like Star Wars.

Hope you have a wonderful time in Dubrovnik! :-)

Thanks for all the info!! My bf and I will be heading to Croatia in late-June and we’ve planned to do a lot of grocery shopping on our own. How did you find the grocery stores and where would you recommend?? We’ll be in Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Zagreb overnight, but many other places for day trips. Thanks!

In your opinion, is it safe to travel to Croatia? You’ve spent a lot of time there, so I’d love to know your thoughts.

Yes! Very safe. I didn’t have any safety issues in Croatia and feel comfortable recommending it as a safe travel destination. I feel safer there than I do in my home country and the U.S.!

Hey Lauren, We plan to visit Croatia this September. Can you recommend a day or less bike tours that takes us to some cool places that is not too strenuous? Either by a guide or by renting bikes and exploring on our own. Your information has been so helpful to us and appreciate you taking all the time and effort in posting this.

Another great post, I can’t thank you enough for these budget travel guides. I’m planning on spending two weeks in Croatia in June, traveling to Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice, and Zagreb, and I’m hoping to keep my budget under $60 a day. Do you think this is possible?

Hey Lauren, Lovely article :-)

I am planning to go Croatia this Sept with my 1.5 year old Infant. Will it be feasible to visit the places along with a kid, Also I am planning to hire a car along with driver or you would recommend to take daily trips from Zagreb to all across Croatia?

Many Thanks, Shraddha

What a great post! Very informative – just what I needed. Thank you.

No problem! Hope you have a wonderful time in Croatia :-)

if you only had 5 days to see some of croatia, what would you do to make it worth it on the cheap?

A very comprehensive article. Thanks for taking the time to put it together – much appreciated. I’m still in the very early stages of planning my world trip but this info has sown the seed of curiosity about visiting Croatia thank you.

Yay! I’m so happy to hear that, Chris :-)

Great post Lauren and very informative. Thanks very much for this. Best regards, Nicholas

Thanks for reading!

It might help to know that American Airlines has recently introduced a direct line connecting Philadelphia and Dubrovnik during the season months (June through September). If my memory serves me well, they will operate 3 flights per week.

Kind regards Ivan

Thank you so much! Will add it to the post :-)

Thank you for the awesome guidelines :)

Thanks for reading! :-)

This has been so helpful! I noticed the typical pricing has the euro symbol next to it, have you given the pricing in euro to make things easier to compare to or is the price actually in Kuna as I read you should take Kuna. I’m going in 3 weeks and just trying to work out a budget

Hi Lauren, This may be a hard question to answer, but I thought I’d put it out there:) I have dual citizenship (U.S. / Ireland) and was entertaining the idea of retiring in a European country. I was considering both Croatia and Portugal, based on my Internet research. I know that you spent some time in Lisbon and wondered how it would compare to, say, settling in Zagreb. I know Spanish so it would be easier to learn Portuguese. But I like where Croatia is situated (closer to more countries for visiting), and it also seems a little more affordable. It’s hard to get a sense of the cultures just by doing research online, but it sounds like the people are lovely in both places. I plan to visit soon and try it out, but I just wondered if you had any thoughts on this. Thanks, Rose

Hi Rose! Ah, those are two wonderful options :-)

You’re correct in that Croatia is more affordable, but the language would be tricker to learn. And that locals in both countries are lovely and so friendly! English is spoken widely in both countries, so there wouldn’t be too high of a language barrier either way. There’d be a much larger community of expats/retirees in Portugal, as it is such a popular retirement destination, so it would probably be a lot easier to build a community there. Lisbon, to me, feels more like an *international city*, in that there are tons of different restaurants and cuisines and immigrants from countries all over — Zagreb doesn’t have that as much.

I don’t know if that helps at all, but I think both options sound pretty good!

Your reply does help – thank you, Lauren! By the way, I’m sorry about the Brexit situation. I have an English cousin in Spain, and she was disappointed about the decision to leave. But on a positive note, it’s wonderful you live in a country that is so geographically close to so many interesting countries/cultures. I’m in Northern California, just outside of San Francisco (which sounds exciting), but you have to travel far (and by plane) to get to culturally distinct locations. I’m trying to keep my carbon footprint small, and I like the idea of visiting a variety of places by train. You’re fortunate that you have that option and at the same time be close to family. Thank you for your help and for a terrific website! Rose

Hi We are going to Croatia in April 2024. Can you give us any idea about what to expect the weather to be like. Also it is our first time in Croatia for 10 days we would like to see as much as possible as well as some down time. Thanks

Lauren, thank you!! I am visiting Croatia and of course, I need to plan my expenses in advance. Your article really helped me with this issue I have been trying to figure out the past week.

Thanks for your blog and keep posing,

We also document every cent of our travels, partially to show how affordable travel can be, but mainly to ensure we stick to a budget. We only have limited funds (as do most people) and try to be frugal in some areas while still having the ability to learn about the culture, cuisine, people and history of a country.

And in the end, our costs were very similar to yours. Always good to have several data points to compare.

Sweet! Glad to hear your costs matched up with mine :-)

Hello Lauren! Great article, lovely read. I am looking to visit Croatia for a month or more if I love the country and I can see that you do not favor Airbnbs for reasons, which I understand. I do not wish to contribute to gentrification or high prices, so what are my options. I will bring my entire life with me (as I am living out of a suitcase at the moment) as well as my cat. I am sure that makes hostels out of the question. I’d like an entire place to myself. Is there a more ethical version to Airbnb? Thanks in advance!

is it possible to rent a car in Zagreb drive and cover all the major cities, I did this in Italy and covered – Rome, Venice, Florence and all the way to Sorrento & Amalfi coast, the highways were excellent

Amazing post, I almost convinced my wife that we will greece in October in between someone said why not greece and then I explored I found your post..I strongly believe that anyone reading your post is 100’% convinced with your recommendation. Thanks so much keep writing… we are planning to travel this October. Any advise that you can recommend ?

Amazing photos. This was a really helpful post for my upcoming trip and I’ll be sure to stay at some of the guesthouses you recommend too.

No problem! Glad you found it useful :-) Have an amazing trip!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Guide on train travel in Croatia (including loads of discounts)

UPDATED: 11/11/2022

Traveling by train is not as popular in Croatia as bus travel. However, depending on your destination, it can be an easy and cheap method of traversing the country.

Many recent infrastructure and equipment updates have substantially improved the experience on many routes.

Train travel in Croatia is led by Croatian Railways called HŽ  (Hrvatske željeznice). They maintain the railway infrastructure and manage the public, passenger, and freight train transport in Croatia.

In this post, we’ve cover:

• Insider tips
• Discounts on travel
• Travel reservations
• Other services
• Car transport
• Travel routes
• Train timetable
• Where to buy tickets

The facts are these…

How to travel by train in Croatia including discounts

Insider tips on train travel in croatia.

Train travel is mostly an inconvenient means of getting around within Croatia. In most cases, it takes significantly longer than buses and cars.

[Read: Traveling by bus in Croatia ]

However, trains provide more space and comfort while traveling. On the train, you can stretch, take a walk through the cars, or meet new people. I met some of the dearest people in my life while traveling by train. Long-haul trains usually have a restaurant wagon where you can get refreshments.

Smaller Croatian villages and municipalities usually lack train lines during the night and sometimes even during the day. If you are traveling to a smaller place, be sure to check the timetable in advance. Otherwise, you might get trapped in the village for some time. This can be inconvenient if it happens at night and you don’t have anywhere to sleep over.

On some routes, only old trains without air conditioning are used. During hot summer days, it can be unbearable if there are too many people on the train. Be sure to bring water and wear light clothing.

Some older trains are pretty noisy, so don’t be surprised if you barely hear the person you’re speaking to on the phone. On the other hand, during the winter, you could freeze because sometimes the heating doesn’t work.

“New” modern trains run on all main routes within the country. They are equipped with air conditioning, and are much quieter, faster, and more comfortable. There are also faster tilting trains called nagibni vlak that ride on some routes (for example, Zagreb-Split).

Most people in Croatia travel by bus for long-distance trips. Trains are a good option for shorter trips and intercity transport. If you prefer to travel by train, we provide a detailed guide below on how to do so within Croatia.

What to do if the train is late in Croatia?

Unfortunately, trains in Croatia are often late. This can be very frustrating, especially if traveling to work, an important meeting, or taking an exam. Sometimes trains are late only several minutes, but sometimes they can be late more than an hour.

If you have to switch to another line during your travel, keep this in mind and always leave some extra time between your connections. You don’t want to be late for another carrier (bus, plane, or boat). Otherwise, your might need to completely reorganize your travel plans.

[Read: Boat travel in Croatia ]

If you need to switch to another train line and your train is only a few minutes late, the second train you have to switch to will usually wait for it. However, this is more common for routes within smaller villages since they often depend on each other, and local residents must switch trains often.

If you have to switch to a route going a different direction, they won’t wait for you. If you are already late, ask the staff on the train for advice. They will tell you what to do and which option is best for you. Croatians call the train staff kondukter , which means conductor .

Discounts on train travel in Croatia

Discounts for a round-trip

HŽ provides a 20% discount for round-trip train tickets on long-haul trips. A one-way trip must be longer than 50 kilometers. This discount is available to all passengers.

Student discount

Many Croatian counties, cities, and municipalities give student subsidies for HŽ train tickets. You can check the list here .

Travels between Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Austria

Groups of at least 6 persons up to 20 years of age who travel between Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Austria can get a 70% discount on train tickets.

Discounts for traveling to the sea

HŽ often offers discounts for traveling from Zagreb to Rijeka, Pula, Split, Šibenik, and Zadar. For more details, track their pages.

Discount for visiting Spa centers

Daruvarske toplice

Travelers who travel to Daruvarske toplice can get a 40% discount for second-class train tickets.

Travelers can also get a 15% discount for spa tickets and accommodation with breakfast upon presentation of train tickets at the spa entrance.

View more information on this discount here .

Stubičke toplice

Travelers who travel to the spa center Stubičke toplice within the hotel Matija Gubec in Stubičke Toplice can get a 40% discount for first and second-class train tickets.

Travelers can also get a 20% discount for spa tickets upon presentation of train tickets at the spa entrance.

View more information on this discount  here .

[Read: How to visit thermal spas in Croatia (with a complete list of toplice) ]

Cammeo discount

You can get a 10% discount via the Cammeo mobile application for trips that start or end at railway stations in Zagreb, Osijek, Varaždin, Rijeka, Split, and Vinkovci.

Cammeo mobile application is available for:

• Android – Download it here
• iOS – Download it here

You must use the code HZPP20.

Hotel discount

HŽ offers a 10-20% discount for staying in certain hotels in:

• Osijek – View more here
• Split – View more here
• Zagreb – View more here
• Varaždin – View more here
• Vinkovci – View more here

Discounts for HAK members

Members of HAK (Croatian Car Club) can get a 30% discount on return trips on trips longer than 25 kilometers.

View more information on discounts for HAK members here .

Discounts with an unlimited number of tickets

Below are discounts available for an unlimited number of tickets:

• Children up to the age of 6 accompanied by adults can travel free of charge – View more here
• 50% for children between the ages of 6 and 12 accompanied by adults – View more here
• 20% for two-way travel – For trips longer than 50 kilometers
• 30% for Croatian nationals between the ages of 12 and 26 (K-33J card) – View more here
• 50% for students – View more here
• 25% for high school students, college students, young Croatian nationals, and young foreign nationals (EYCA, hi.euro, ISIC-SCHOLAR, and ISIC-STUDENT cards) – View more here
• 50% for Croatian nationals above the age of 60 with permanent residence in Croatia
• 75 – 100% for people with disabilities and their companions – View more here
• 30 – 50% for announced and organized groups on trips longer than 25 kilometers – View more here
• 40 – 50% for family travels for at least 3 and a maximum of 10 persons – View more here
• 30% for journalists on trips longer than 25 kilometers – View more here
• 60% for two-way travel – for travelers traveling to Hungary (the child pays half the price of the adult traveler) – View more here
• 70% for youth groups – for transit between Croatia, Slovenia, Austria, and Serbia youth groups (at least six people) have a discount of 70% for one-way and return journeys up to 20 years of age – View more here

What does it mean to be discounted with an unlimited number of tickets?

That simply means you can come for a few minutes before the train starts and buy a ticket for that train, even though the train is completely sold out (in which case you will have to stand inside the train).

Do you need a travel reservation for train travel in Croatia?

Trains in Croatia do not require a reservation. During certain times of the year, reservations will not even be needed.

However, it often happens that the train is too full, so some people have no place to sit. This usually happens on shorter trips. If this occurs, give your seat to an elderly person or pregnant woman.

If you want to secure a place near the window from the train, you can book a place in advance. It is also recommended to make a reservation when traveling longer distances. Long-distance trips are often booked as well, especially during summer.

For example, if you travel from Zagreb to Split, the journey may take between 6 and 8 hours. Make a reservation to ensure you won’t be left without a seat, especially if traveling at night. We also recommend making a reservation for travel outside of Croatia.

Other train travel services in Croatia

Bicycle transport.

You can carry your bicycle in:

• All trains as luggage
• Certain trains with a section for storing bicycles

The one-way ticket price for bicycle transport is 1,99 euros.

View more information on the transportation of bicycles here .

Pet transport

HŽ offers transportation of smaller pets, service dogs, and guide/help dogs. You must possess a pet passport.

Transportation is free of charge for:

• Animals in transport boxes transported as hand luggage
• Small dogs outside transport boxes

The ticket price for larger dogs is billed at 50% of the second-class regular ticket price.

View more information here .

[Read:  How to bring your pet to Croatia (and care for them once you arrive) ]

Excursion and party trains

HŽ has annual excursion trains that drive to different events and places in Croatia. They usually leave Zagreb early in the morning and return at the end of the day.

There are also so-called “party” trains that drive to:

• Beograd in March
• Split in July
• Sarajevo in October

Other available special offers include:

• Easter train for kids
• Christmas train for kids
• Field trips
• Graduation trips
• Shorter journeys and tours of the railway station for children
• Train lease for business events (conferences, seminars, team-building trips)

View more details on destinations of excursions and party trains, and other special offers here .

Car transport by train in Croatia

Transport tickets for passengers and vehicles with the presentation of traffic permits are purchased at the ticket offices in Zagreb, Split, Varaždin, Osijek, Vinkovci, and Slavonski Brod.

Because of the limited number of vehicles that are accepted for the carriage, it is necessary to buy tickets in advance. Only valid and registered vehicles whose height does not exceed 155 cm are accepted. The car can be loaded an hour and a half before the train departs.

In Zagreb, the vehicles embark at the entrance east of the building of the Croatian Post at the Branimir Branka bb, and in Split at the entrance to the parking lot between the railway and bus station.

[Read:  Guide on driving in Croatia including highways, tolls, gas stations, car washes, and parking ]

International and domestic routes of Croatian railways

Croatian Railways has improved its international ties by train.

There are currently rail links between Zagreb and Budapest, Vienna, Munich, Frankfurt, Zurich, Ljubljana, Belgrade, and Sarajevo. There are also two international trains from Rijeka to Ljubljana. From Ljubljana, you may connect further to Munich (connecting to Zagreb train) and Vienna.

Several border trains have been introduced, such as Đurmanec – Celje, Čakovec – Ormož, and Beli Manastir – Magyarboja.

During the summer season, there are also lines between Zagreb, Split and Prague, Bratislava, and even Moscow, as well as trains between Pula and Ljubljana. There is also a tourist train traveling only on Saturdays on the Čakovec – Lendava route.

Train timetable of Croatian railways

The railway timetables regularly change and are updated on the first Monday in December each year. Changes are usually negligible. However, it is good to track changes because this is Croatia, after all, and anything can happen.

View the map of all train stations in Croatia here .

View the map of all train routes in Croatia here .

You can check the train timetable online here .

The timetable for all train lines in Croatia is available to download here .

Timetable for city train lines for the relation Harmica – Savski Marof – Zagreb GK – Dugo Selo is available to download here .

Timetables for Zabok, Zlatar Bistrica, Gornja Stubica, Krapina, Ludina, Križevci, Karlovac, Velika Gorica, and Sisak are available to download here .

Where to buy a train ticket in Croatia?

Train tickets can be bought:

• At HŽ railway stations
• Online with a 5% discount on all online purchases
• Download app for Android here
• Download app for iOS here
• Download app for Windows here

View our other transport guides

• Bus travel in Croatia
• Boats and ferries in Croatia
• Full list of airports in Croatia
• Guide on driving in Croatia including highways, tolls, gas stations, car washes, and parking
• How to get to and from Dubrovnik Airport
• How to get to and from Pula Airport
• How to get to and from Rijeka-Krk Airport
• How to get to and from Split Airport
• How to get to and from the Zadar-Zemunik Airport
• How to get to and from Zagreb Airport
• Public transport by bus in Dubrovnik
• Public transport in Osijek
• Public transport in Pula
• Public transport in Rijeka
• Split’s bus system (Promet)
• Šibenik’s public bus system (ATP)
• Zadar’s public bus system (Liburnija)
• Zagreb’s public transportation system (ZET)

Please note:  Information provided by Expat in Croatia is only for the purposes of guidance. It does not constitute legal or financial advice in any form. Croatian laws and bureaucratic rules often change, and each personal case is individual, so different rules may apply. For legal advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian lawyer. For financial advice,  contact us  to consult with a licensed Croatian tax advisor or accountant.

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Marija Tkalec

Latest posts by marija tkalec ( see all ).

• Crushing it with Croatians: Rea and Tiny Meow gaming studio - May 3 2024
• Crushing it in Croatia: Carolyn and The Field School of Hvar - March 29 2024
• How to buy beer in Croatia – top breweries and beers - March 12 2024

UK tourists told to 'avoid' Dubrovnik in Croatia travel warning

UK tourists have been advised to steer clear of Dubrovnik in Croatia due to overwhelming crowds. British holidaymakers heading to the popular Star Wars and Game of Thrones filming location have been alerted about the issue.

A post on Reddit warned Brits: "End of July is high season in Croatia, so crowds are to be expected. Someone already mentioned inland Croatia as an option for your potentially less-crowded second week, and I would also suggest to look up Zagorje (northern part of the country), inland Istria (lots of cute villages to visit, and not far from Krk), and the regions of Gorski Kotar and Lika (mountainous parts of Croatia)."

One traveller shared their experience: "We did a lot of Croatia a some summers ago, it was REALLY crowded! Not even the cities but places like the Piltvace Lakes were insane; also very hot! But there is a reason they are all there, it is worth it if you can handle the crowds! ".

Another user pointed out: "Croatia has about 237 "tourist beds" per 1000 inhabitants. I recently mad a map that covers this for most of Europe."

Yet another added: "With the human population continuously growing such things are only going to become more and more common in Europe which has so many beautiful cities.", reports Birmingham Live .

"Tourism is killing life in many European city destinations. It has become very hard to find affordable apartment for long term rent so young people move out to suburbs. Many owners ask people to move out before June and then they make more money over summer," one individual commented.

""It's extremely touristy, huge boats are coming in and out bringing thousands of tourists in the very small old town. After 9am it's packed and really not enjoyable anymore," another person explained. A third added: ""Croatia is amazing but this city doesn't represent it well. It's super expensive and very, very touristy."

"Even worse when cruise ships roll in. Explore the rest of the country too."

Who will win Eurovision Song Contest 2024? See photos of all of the finalists

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Croatia gets new government with a far-right party included ahead of European parliamentary vote

Croatian Prime minister designate Andrej Plenkovic attends a Parliament session in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 17, 2024. Croatian lawmakers on Friday voted into office a new government that marks a tilt to the right in another European Union nation ahead of the 27-nation bloc’s parliamentary election next month. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Ivan Penava, leader of the far right DP party which is part of the new ruling coalition speaks before the Parliament during a session in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 17, 2024. Croatian lawmakers on Friday voted into office a new government that marks a tilt to the right in another European Union nation ahead of the 27-nation bloc’s parliamentary election next month. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Government ministers, left, attend a Parliament session in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 17, 2024. Croatian lawmakers on Friday voted into office a new government that marks a tilt to the right in another European Union nation ahead of the 27-nation bloc’s parliamentary election next month. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

Government ministers attend a Parliament session in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 17, 2024. Croatian lawmakers on Friday voted into office a new government that marks a tilt to the right in another European Union nation ahead of the 27-nation bloc’s parliamentary election next month. (AP Photo/Darko Bandic)

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ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) — Croatian lawmakers on Friday voted into office a new government that marks a tilt to the right in another European Union nation ahead of the 27-nation bloc’s parliamentary election next month.

Although it is still dominated by conservative Croatian Democratic Union, or HDZ, the new Croatian government now also includes hard-right Homeland Movement, a relatively new party that emerged as a kingmaker after an inconclusive parliamentary election in April.

The new Cabinet of Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic, who started his third consecutive term in office, was approved in a 79-61 vote in the 151-member Sabor, or the Croatian assembly.

The HDZ won the most votes in the April 17 election but not enough to rule alone. A relatively slim majority for the new coalition government could usher in a period of political instability after HDZ’s years-long domination.

In his speech, Plenkovic said that his new government will focus on further economic growth and modernization, saying that so far “the citizens have recognized our effort.”

Croatia’s economy was among the weakest in the EU when it joined the bloc in 2013 but has since managed to join the single currency market last year. The country of 3.8 million people relies heavily on income from tourism along its stunning Adriatic Sea coastline.

For the first time in years, Croatia’s government does not include a party representing Croatia’s ethnic Serb minority after the Homeland Movement, known as DP, objected to their participation. This has sparked concerns that Croatia’s hard-won ethnic balance following the 1991-95 Serb-Croatian war could be disrupted.

Plenkovic pledged that “we will take care of the rights of national minorities, respect them, protect achieved rights and make sure that everyone in Croatia, each and everyone of our citizens, feel good.”

But Anja Šimpraga, a former government minister from the Independent Democratic Serb Party, or SDSS, warned during Friday’s debate that “already we are witnessing radicalization.” Liberal lawmaker Sandra Bencic, from left-green Mozemo, or We Can, party ironically evoked what she described as “homeland spirit” fueling divisions in the society.

The Homeland Movement party is made up mostly of radical nationalists and social conservatives who had left HDZ. The party is led by the hard-line mayor of the eastern town of Vukovar, which was destroyed in 1991 at the start of Croatia’s war for independence after it split from the former Yugoslavia.

The party has demanded that the Croatian state abolish financing of a critical liberal news outlet Novosti, which is issued by the Serb minority and funded from the budget.

The Croatian Journalists’ Association has reported that Novosti journalists have received threats and been deemed as enemies of the state. The organization said the threats are the result of DP’s campaign against Novosti, and have demanded a response from the authorities.

The DP also has advocated a return to the traditional, stay-at-home role for women in Croatia’s society, which is predominantly Catholic and conservative, and where women already face problems accessing abortion.

HDZ has largely held office since Croatia gained independence. The Balkan nation became an EU member in 2013, and joined Europe’s passport-free travel area and the eurozone last year.

With hard=right and populist parties now part of or leading a half dozen governments in the EU, they appear positioned to make gains in the June 6-9 election for the European Parliament. The vote takes place as the continent faces a war in Ukraine , climate emergencies, migration and other problems.

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Eurovision analysis: the takeaways from voting results as chaos lingers.

In the most controversial Eurovision ever, Switzerland won by dominating the jury vote, while Israel's Eden Golan, who scored a strong second in the public vote, placed fifth.

By Lily Ford

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It speaks to the turmoil of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest that in the days after its end, the winner seems to be an afterthought and instead, the focus remains on the divisive nature of the competition.

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But it was a Eurovision that organizers might be in a hurry to forget. Reports of unrest among the contestants and country delegations ran amok on social media. Rumors of entrants missing rehearsals, flags being pulled down and claims of misconduct backstage hugely disrupted the usually peppy Eurovision build-up. The  Dutch participant Joost Klein  was disqualified on the day of the Grand Final after an allegation of intimidation was made to Swedish police by a female member of the production crew.

Organizers have pledged to review all of the controversy after Irish entrant Bambie Thug said they raised “multiple complaints” with Eurovision bosses, accusing Israeli broadcaster Kan of “inciting violence” against them. The European Broadcasting Union said that they “regret” some delegations did not “respect the spirit of the rules” and that a review with governing bodies and the delegations will take place.

The contention at the event began with the inclusion of Israeli entrant Eden Golan, the 20-year-old singer who became a lightning rod for protestors condemning Israel’s war in Gaza, which has left nearly 35,000 Palestinians dead, according to a new United Nations estimate, mostly women and children, since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack on Israel that killed around 1,200 people. Eurovision fans pledged to boycott the event, objecting to the barrage of missile strikes on Gaza.

1. The Gap Between Audience and Jury Votes

The Eurovision voting system is an intricate one and has often led to confusion in the past. Winners are tallied through a combination of public votes from viewers and individual votes from juries of music industry professionals representing each participating country. Each jury, made up of five people, gives out 12 points to their top performance and 10 points to their second choice. Their third choice receives eight points, fourth choice seven points — and so on, all the way down to one. The remaining countries get zero points. In total, 25 countries participated in this year’s Eurovision final.

Viewers watching at home could submit as many votes as they liked, which were counted and awarded in the same 12-1 point format. For the first time this year, viewers watching from non-participating nations were also able to join in and cast votes online (but their collective votes equaled the weight of just one country). Viewers are not able to submit votes for their own country.

In previous Eurovision contests, audience and juries have rarely agreed on the same winner — the last time this happened was seven years ago, when Portugal’s Salvador Sobral wowed Europe with his love ballad “Amar Pelos Dois.”

The jury and public very nearly agreed on their top five, but Israel’s Golan proved to be a notable exception. Croatia, Switzerland, Ukraine and France all made the highest spots on both points tables — though in different orders — but where Israel had earned second place with the public, it only came 13th in the jury vote.

One jury member in Norway, Daniel Owen, took to Instagram after the event to apologize for the eight points his country’s jury awarded Israel. He shed a little light on the voting process, explaining that each jury member votes individually without the opportunity to discuss the allocation of points.

Before the broadcast, the jury was shown an introduction video: “You must not favor or discriminate against any participant based on nationality, gender, suitability, political views, or any reason other than the song and performance. Do not let political views affect how you evaluate a song and/or an artist,” he recalled.

Owen then explained that his political beliefs meant he felt he could not vote for the Israeli entrant, breaching Eurovision rules. He continued: “Given the current situation, it was impossible for me to overlook this. What is happening in Palestine is heartbreaking, and I cannot in any way support Israel’s actions. In my opinion, Israel should not have been allowed to participate in Eurovision at all.”

2. Public in Western Countries Enjoy Israel’s Performance

It has occurred before that across all voting countries, the public generally agree on their winner. In 2022, after it was invaded by Russia, Ukraine won the highest amount of public points possible (12) from a huge 28 different countries. It was widely regarded as an emotional mark of global solidarity for Ukraine and its people amid its ongoing war with Russia. Whilst hosting privileges were handed to second-place U.K. for safety and logistical reasons, it was very much Ukraine’s Eurovision the following year.

This year, Israel’s performance earned the most amount of public love out of the entrants, receiving a full 12 points from the public in 15 countries. Notably, they were predominantly Western countries: the U.K., Australia, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, San Marino, Sweden, Switzerland, and the Rest of the World (which, as aforementioned, together counted as one country). Croatia and Ukraine were the only two countries where the public awarded Israel zero points.

That said, it is difficult to say what percentage of audience members voted for Israel out of support for the song, the performer, the country, its government, or other reasons entirely. The British, French, German and Australian governments have all been vocal about their support of Benjamin Netanyahu’s Israel, leading some to suggest the influence of individual countries’ political messaging on the war coming into play. However, Golan was loudly booed at the arena as she performed in both the semi-final and Grand Final. Ultimately, it is impossible to know the motivations of Eurovision voters without more thorough research or polling.

3. Fans Vowed Political Boycott — and Honored It?

Definitive numbers are still being released for many countries, but in the U.K. viewership plummeted by almost 25 percent. Britain, along with France, Spain, Germany and Italy, make up the Eurovision “Big Five.” For their high ratings and financial contribution to Eurovision, the countries’ entrants are automatically guaranteed a spot in the final.

According to agency Digital i, an average of 7.64 million people in the U.K. watched the finale this year, with a peak of 8.46 million. Last year’s finale, held in Liverpool, had a 9.98 million average and an 11 million peak. In 2022, the U.K. had an average viewership of 8.9 million.

4. What About the Music?

It is generally a well-held belief that music akin to pop songs, ballads and dance songs are more likely to win Eurovision than the heavy metal screamers or rock tunes that also feature. To be a Eurovision winner, it must be a palatable track for Eurovision’s huge audience.

The juries in recent years have also seemed to favor a conventional pick over something more eccentric.

And while political motivations have made themselves known in the voting results in recent years, a popular song — normally catchy and fun, or if a ballad, filled with heartfelt emotion — will sway the neutral viewer at home and come out on top.

This would explain Croatia’s performer, Baby Lasagna, winning the public vote in 2024 with “Rim Tim Tagi Dim,” a humorous but still serious commentary on the economic migration of young Croatians. Israel’s romantic ballad “Hurricane” came just before Ukraine’s “Teresa & Maria,” which had a little rap in it. It was a mixed bag.

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