Dotted with scenic pebbled beaches and dazzling islands, Croatia is a beautiful country bordered by four countries – Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, and Hungary.
The southern tip touches Montenegro and the body of its crescent shape forms a long coastline with the Adriatic Sea.
This small yet geographically diverse Mediterranean country is a travel hotspot that offers everything from serene & postcard-worthy national parks to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Stunning waterfalls, gorgeous beaches, hiking trails, and rich history – Croatia has so much to offer that one trip will fail to satiate you.
Strangely Croatia was never on my bucket list, but after just a few days exploring this fabulous country I can’t wait to go back!
Here are my top 20 things to do in Croatia including the places I visited and the ones I want to see!
Top 20 Very Best Things To Do In Croatia
1. Walk the City Walls in Dubrovnik’s Old Town
Dubrovnik’s Old Town is one of those places that really lives up to the hype. With its terracotta rooftops, winding alleys, and dramatic sea views, it’s no surprise it’s nicknamed the Pearl of the Adriatic.
The star of the show? The City Walls.
These mighty stone fortifications wrap around the entire Old Town — about 2 km or 1.25 miles — and are hands-down one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Dubrovnik. You’ll get sweeping views over the Adriatic, spot Lokrum Island just offshore, and see the rooftops glow golden in the early morning light.
If you can manage it, go early and catch the sunrise. It’s quieter, cooler, and the light on those red roofs is something else.
And for my fellow Game of Thrones fans — this is King’s Landing. You’ll recognise the streets and gates instantly, and there are some great themed walking tours that bring the filming locations to life (yes, I did one and yes, it was brilliant).
2. Experience the Magic of the Blue Cave
If you’re based in Split or Hvar, a day trip to the Blue Cave on Biševo Island is well worth it. It’s one of those bucket-list experiences that actually lives up to the photos.
The cave is famous for its glowing neon-blue light, caused by the sun bouncing through the water and lighting up the limestone walls. It’s surreal, beautiful, and surprisingly peaceful — if you time it right.
That said, it’s very popular, and during peak season it can feel a bit chaotic. If you can, try to go in shoulder season (May or late September is ideal), and just know that it’s only accessible via official guided tours.
If you’re in Split, I highly recommend doing a full-day Blue Cave tour that includes island hopping to Hvar and a few other stunning spots along the Dalmatian coast. It’s a full day on the water, but honestly? One of the most scenic days I’ve ever had.
3. Hike to Odysseus Cave on Mljet Island
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, Croatia has plenty to keep the heart pumping — from canyon hikes to coastal climbs. But one of the more memorable day hikes has to be the trail to Odysseus Cave on Mljet Island.
Mljet itself is home to a stunning national park, filled with pine forests, saltwater lakes, and quiet hiking trails. But it’s not just nature that makes it special — there are ancient Greek ruins, Illyrian tombs, and centuries of history scattered across the island.
The hike to Odysseus Cave starts in the small town of Babino Polje. It takes around an hour, and while the trail isn’t too difficult, it does get rocky in parts. Once you reach the edge? You’ve got two options: jump in, or watch from above.
To actually enter the cave, you’ll need to swim — there’s no path in. So if you’re not a confident swimmer, definitely take a lifejacket or stick to admiring it from the cliffs.
It’s a raw, beautiful slice of the Dalmatian coast — and well worth the effort if you’re up for a proper nature fix.
4. Wander Through the Waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s true natural showstoppers — and it’s not hard to see why it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Spanning over 7,000 acres, this protected wonderland is home to 16 crystal-clear lakes and more than 90 waterfalls, all nestled at the base of the Dinaric Alps. The colours alone — turquoise, teal, emerald — are worth the trip.
Centuries of mineral-rich water flowing over limestone have shaped the landscape into a fairytale network of lakes, cascades, and shallow travertine pools. Wooden walkways and forest trails wind through the park, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
One of the highlights is Kozjak Lake, where you can hop on a quiet electric boat and float across the still, glassy water — pure peace.
It’s one of eight national parks in Croatia, and easily one of the most photographed.
Top tip: Unless you’ve hired a car, I’d recommend booking a guided day trip from Split or Zagreb. You’ll get transport, park entry, and a guide to help you make the most of your time without any of the planning stress.
5. Take a Day Trip to Krka National Park
If you’re staying in Split and want a taste of Croatia’s wild side without the long drive to Plitvice, Krka National Park is a brilliant alternative — and honestly, just as beautiful in its own way.
Like Plitvice, Krka is known for its waterfalls. But here, you can take a boat ride along the Krka River, winding past cascades and through lush forested canyons. I recommend starting your trip in the town of Skradin — from there, you can hop on a boat that’ll glide you right into the park. It’s peaceful, scenic, and a lovely way to kick off your visit.
There are wooden boardwalks, lakes, quiet trails, and lookouts perfect for a picnic or just soaking up the view. It’s a dream for photographers, bird watchers, and anyone who just wants to be out in nature for the day.
Krka is one of the most accessible national parks in Croatia and makes for an easy, stress-free day trip from the coast. Just pack comfy shoes, a water bottle, and your camera — you’ll want it.
6. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb
If you’re heading to Croatia’s capital, make sure the Museum of Broken Relationships is on your list. It’s one of the more unusual — and surprisingly moving — museums you’ll come across.
What started as a travelling exhibition turned into a permanent space in Zagreb in 2010, filled with personal items donated by people from around the world. Each one tells the story of a relationship that ended — romantic, familial, or otherwise.
Some stories will make you laugh, some will punch you in the gut, and others will feel eerily familiar. It’s intimate, emotional, and completely human — the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left.
And if it all feels a bit heavy? You can decompress at the on-site Brokenships Bistro or browse the quirky gift shop for a little something to take home (besides emotional baggage).
It’s not your typical tourist attraction — and that’s exactly why it’s worth seeing.
7. Bask on Zlatni Rat Beach (Golden Horn), Brač Island
Zlatni Rat — also known as the Golden Horn or Golden Cape — is one of Croatia’s most iconic beaches, and it’s easy to see why.
From above, it looks like a golden arrowhead stretching into the sea, surrounded by water in every shade from pale turquoise to deep navy. But look closer, and you’ll see it’s not sand — it’s fine, smooth pebbles that shift with the wind and waves, subtly changing the beach’s shape over time. Pretty cool, right?
This natural phenomenon has been protected as a geomorphological monument, and it can host up to 10,000 people at peak times — though I recommend going early or in shoulder season for a more relaxed vibe.
You can spend the day sunbathing, floating in the calm shallows, or if you’re feeling active, try windsurfing, kayaking or diving. It’s one of those places where you can be as lazy or adventurous as you like.
An easy day trip from Split or Hvar, it’s a great spot to unwind and soak up that dreamy Dalmatian coast energy.
8. Explore Diocletian’s Palace in Split
You can’t visit Split without wandering through Diocletian’s Palace — it’s not just a tourist site, it is the heart of the city.
Built in the 4th century as a retirement palace for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, this UNESCO World Heritage Site now forms nearly half of Split’s Old Town. But don’t expect a roped-off museum — this place is very much alive.
Over the centuries, the palace has been transformed into a maze of shops, cafés, apartments, and tucked-away courtyards. Around 3,000 people still live within its ancient walls, and you’ll find everything from live music in the square to craft stalls and hidden wine bars down narrow alleys.
It’s one of the few places in the world where you can sip a coffee where emperors once ruled and stroll through Roman corridors that now echo with buskers and laughter.
While Split doesn’t have walkable city walls like Dubrovnik, it offers its own gems. Don’t miss Saint Domnius Cathedral — one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use — and if you need a break from the buzz, head out to nearby Marjan Forest Park for sweeping views, pine trails, and a proper dose of nature.
9. Take a Road Trip Through Istria
If you’re a foodie (or just love a good road trip), don’t miss Istria — the heart-shaped peninsula in northwest Croatia known for its rich olive oil, world-class wines, creamy goat cheese, and luxurious white truffles. It’s a flavour-packed gem that often gets overshadowed by the coast, but it’s one of my favourite regions to explore.
The best way to see it? Rent a car or camper and take your time. While there are buses, they rarely get you to the small hill towns and local producers that make Istria so special.
You’ll wind your way from the glittering Adriatic coastline to medieval villages perched on hilltops, passing Roman ruins, vineyards, and stone cottages along the way.
Be sure to stop in Pula (for its impressive Roman amphitheatre) and Rovinj (a gorgeous coastal town with Venetian flair). But also make time for the lesser-known charmers — Grožnjan, an arty hilltop village, and Motovun, famous for its truffles and fairytale views.
Down on the coast, Rabac offers some seriously postcard-worthy beaches, and if you’ve got time, pop over to Poreč to see the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica.
This is Croatia at a slower, more indulgent pace — and perfect for a DIY adventure with a side of wine and cheese.
10. Discover the History and Charm of Pula & Rovinj
If you’re heading through Istria, make sure to stop in Pula — the region’s largest city and an absolute treat for history lovers.
The highlight is the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world (and still used for concerts and events). But that’s just the start. You’ll also find the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of Sergii, and the Monastery of Saint Francis, along with a late 14th-century Romanesque church tucked into the city’s quieter corners.
Don’t miss the Museum of Olive Oil (yes, it’s a thing — and it’s excellent), plus a hilltop fortress with sweeping views and a fascinating local history museum.
Further up the coast, Rovinj is pure coastal charm. With its colourful Old Town, narrow cobbled streets, and art galleries hidden in alleyways, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to wander slowly. And when you’re ready to cool off, head to nearby beaches like Lone Bay, Amarin, or Monte — perfect for a swim and a bit of downtime after all the sightseeing.
Both cities are ideal stops on an Istrian road trip — one for history and ancient ruins, the other for laid-back beauty and beach time.
Other Places to Visit in Croatia
11. Join the Fun at Rijeka Carnival
If you’re in Croatia during carnival season, don’t miss Rijeka Carnival — the country’s biggest and boldest. Dating back to the Middle Ages, this wild, colourful parade takes over the city, with the “Master of the Carnival” handed the symbolic key to the city.
It’s loud, fun, and completely over the top.
Also worth checking out? The charming Opatija Carnival and the quirky Samobor Fašnik — smaller, but packed with personality.
12. Wine Tasting on Pelješac Peninsula
Just north of Dubrovnik, the Pelješac Peninsula is a dream for wine lovers. Its hillside vineyards roll all the way down to the sea, and the winding roads are dotted with boutique wineries offering tastings of some of Croatia’s best reds.
Slow down, sip, and enjoy the view — it’s one of the most relaxed (and delicious) ways to explore the region.
13. Brave the Skywalk at Biokovo Nature Park
Not for the faint-hearted! The Skywalk at Biokovo Nature Park juts out over a 1,200-metre drop, offering jaw-dropping views of the Adriatic Sea and surrounding mountains through a glass platform beneath your feet.
If you don’t mind heights, it’s one of the most thrilling views in Croatia.
14. Explore Korčula Island — Home of Marco Polo?
With its terracotta rooftops and Venetian-style stone buildings, Korčula Island feels like a mini Dubrovnik — but far less crowded.
Believed to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, you can visit his house, wander the charming Old Town, and walk along the old city walls. It’s a relaxed, history-rich gem on the southern Dalmatian coast.
15. Go Glamping on Obonjan Island
Looking for something a little different? Obonjan is a private, adults-only island near Šibenik where you can go glamping in style.
Just a short ferry ride away, it’s an affordable escape with spa treatments, wellness sessions, and that blissful “no kids, no chaos” vibe. Perfect for a little grown-up downtime.
16. Soak Up the Culture in Zagreb
Croatia’s capital often gets overlooked, but Zagreb has a charm all its own — think quirky museums, historic churches, leafy squares, and a laid-back café culture.
Check out the famous Lenuci Horseshoe for most of the main museums, visit Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mary’s Church, and wander the Upper Town for hidden gems and great views.
17. Island Hop Through Kornati National Park
Made up of 150 crown-shaped islands, Kornati National Park is a stunning archipelago in northern Dalmatia — perfect for a boat day.
While many of the islands are privately owned, a few like Levrnaka and Mana welcome visitors with gorgeous beaches and great local food. Peaceful, remote, and absolutely worth the trip.
18. Visit Hvar Island and Climb to the Spanish Fortress
Hvar is known for its pretty beaches, historic charm, and lively atmosphere. Wander the cobbled Old Town, then head up to the Spanish Fortress for stunning views over the harbour.
Whether you’re into beach-hopping, sunset cocktails, or music festivals, Hvar has something for everyone — including plenty of quiet corners if you’re after a slower pace.
19. Explore the Abandoned Hotels of Kupari Bay
Just a short drive from Dubrovnik, Kupari offers a different kind of adventure — exploring the eerie, abandoned hotels that once hosted Yugoslavia’s elite.
Damaged during the war and left to crumble, the buildings now stand as haunting reminders of the past. Climb to the rooftop (carefully!) for a stunning view over the bay. A bit eerie, but fascinating.
20. Go Canyoning in Cetina Canyon
Forget town walls and museums — Cetina Canyon is pure, rugged Croatia. With its steep cliffs and crystal-clear river, it’s the ultimate spot for canyoning, kayaking, and white-water rafting.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this one’s a must-do. Just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a dry bag).
Best Time to Visit Croatia
If you love a buzzing atmosphere, June to August is Croatia’s high season — think festivals, beach parties, and late-night energy. But be ready for big crowds and higher prices.
For a more relaxed trip, I recommend the shoulder seasons — March to May or September to November. The weather’s still lovely, the trails and coastlines are quieter, and flights and stays are usually cheaper. Great time for hiking, island hopping, and actually getting a table at that cute little restaurant.
And if you’re in it for culture, December to February brings local festivals, fewer tourists, and a more authentic feel — just bring a jacket!
Where to Stay in Croatia?
There is no shortage of hotels, hostels, or Airbnb in Croatia, so it completely depends on your requirements and budget.
I use booking.com as my preferred hotel booking app. I have tried many over the years and booking.com consistently offers me the best deals.
If however, you’re looking for super budget accommodation try hostelworld.com.
Here are the best budget places to stay in Split & Dubrovnik:
I Love Split Apartment: $ 68/night
Spacious and well-decorated 1-bedroom apartment with one queen bed and one sofa bed, it is perfect if you are looking for a budget stay in Split. It came with a private kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV.
Templar Residence Apartments: $90/night
A spacious apartment with a private kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, a balcony, a private bathroom, and a flat-screen TV, this was a perfect choice for our two-person trip.
Recommended Tours & Trips
There is no shortage of trips and tours to make the best use of your time in this beautiful country. However, here are some suggested trips I recommend you explore further.
Things to Do in Croatia – Tips for Digital Nomads or Long Term Travelers
- The best way to get around Croatia is a car or RV. Yes, there are buses available, but they can be irregular. Taxis are also available however, this won’t be cost-effective in the long run. I recommend discovercars.com and their pricing starts at $11 a day. However, they are not the only providers. Check a few other options. For island hopping, you can rent private boats from Sailo. Pricing will vary depending on the type of boat you are looking for.
- Wi-Fi connection was pretty good almost everywhere in Croatia, but remember there will be places like Cetina Canyon and Kupari where you will face issues.
- Croatia’s currency is the Croatian Kuna and you need to pay in their local currency. Carry plenty of cash in HRK. Some places will accept credit cards, but make sure that your card allows transactions in HRK.
- Depending on how long you’re staying and the kind of phone contract you’re on, it might be worth getting a local SIM when you get there. Most times when I travel, a local sim is the cheapest option. An e-SIM in Croatia will cost around $15 for 5GB of data for 30 days. It’s worth checking roaming fees with your phone company before traveling.
- If taking money out of an ATM, always choose the ‘convert from your own bank’ option, rather than the convert from the ATM option. This is a golden rule worldwide. I have tried multiple ATM’s in multiple countries and the bank conversion is always without fail cheaper than a local ATM conversion.
- Also when paying with your travel credit or debit card, always choose local currency. If you choose your own currency, the conversion will be done then and there by their bank. When choosing local currency, the conversion is done by your bank and will be cheaper. Not by much, but every little helps!
Booking/Trip Resources
It’s tough when organizing your travels to know which companies offer the best deals and can be trusted with your credit card details!
The following resources are companies I have consistently used over my 11 years of travels and who I believe are the best in the business. I’m constantly updating this list as I find new and improved services.
Rome2Rio – a fantastic app which will show you the best routes to get from city to city or country to country. Simply enter where you’re traveling from and too, and they’ll show you how to get there via planes, trains and automobiles!
Skyscanner.net – always my first port of call when looking for the best flights. Easy to use and consistently highlights flights I can’t find anywhere else, they’re the best flight resource there is. Plus an easy to use app.
Flight Aware – a free, handy app showing flights around the world. I use this to track family or friends when they’re flying, to check whether my flight has left on time on previous days so I can be prepared for delays etc, and just to double check my own flight details as and when I’m traveling.
Trainline (for Europe) – I used to use this just for UK trains, but nowadays you can book trains all over Europe using their services. Cheap, reliable and with a great refund policy for canceled or delayed trains, they’re highly recommended.
Booking.com – I have tried all the other hotel booking sites and without doubt booking.com has consistently offered the best deals. One caveat to this, is always to just check the hotel website directly before finalizing your booking as sometimes they’ll have specialized deals.
Getyourguide.com – the easiest and most reliable activity booking agent. I haven’t had a bad trip to date with them. Plus an easy to use app which tracks all your bookings and includes the meeting point, trip details and everything else you need to ensure your activity goes smoothly.
Discovercars.com – Easy to use website to find rental cars in over 145 countries around the world. Pick up from one location, drop off in another. Find the best deals with the best reviews.
Top 20 Very Best Things to do in Croatia – Summary
Croatia truly has something for everyone.
From its rich cultural heritage and centuries-old architecture to its jaw-dropping national parks and crystal-clear Adriatic coastline — it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave.
Some of the spots I visited — like the Old Towns, Plitvice Lakes, and Krka National Park — completely stole my heart with their beauty and calm. It’s the kind of country that invites you to slow down, soak it all in, and stay just a little longer.
For digital nomads or long-term travellers, Croatia is a dream base. Fast Wi-Fi, great cafés, welcoming locals, and a deep, fascinating history make it an ideal place to work and wander.
I’ll definitely be going back — next time for longer — because there’s still so much more I want to explore.
If you’re planning your own Croatian adventure, be sure to check out these companion guides:
Top 10 Very Best Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
Top 10 Very Best Things to Do in Split, Croatia
Top 10 Very Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia
I hope you’ve found this list of things to do in Croatia useful for your travels. Let me know how you go!
Have fun!
Things to do in Croatia – FAQ’s
Where is Croatia?
Croatia is in southeast Europe and shares a coastline with the Adriatic Sea. It is bordered by Bosnia & Herzegovina, Slovenia, Serbia, Hungary, and Montenegro.
Is Croatia Safe?
Croatia is a very safe city even for solo female travelers.
As with all popular tourist destinations you’ll need to watch out for pickpockets and keep your valuables hidden, plus for females, use your common sense and don’t go wandering on your own in the middle of the night plus be careful when drinking in bars/clubs. (Sad but true across the globe).
But on a general scale compared to the rest of the world, for tourists visiting Croatia it would be considered a very safe city, for solos, couples & families alike.
Nevertheless, always ensure you have travel insurance wherever you go as it will protect you against theft, injury, illness, or cancelations. Use the form below to get your personalized quote.
What’s the Currency in Croatia?
The official currency of Croatia is the Croatian Kuna and most restaurants/shops will only accept Kuna. There are some places who will except Euro however, so this is the best backup currency to carry. You can also use international travel credit and debit cards that will allow paying in Croatian Kuna, however I suggest you carry plenty of local currency, because certain remote places and local shops do not accept cards.
What Language is Spoken in Croatia?
Standard Croatian is the official language, however many people speak Bosnian and Serbian, or a mix thereof. Other foreign languages spoken in Croatia include English, Italian, Czech, German, Slovak, Hungarian, and Romani
What Time is it in Croatia?
In the summer Croatia uses CEST (Central European Summer Time) as their time zone, meaning they’re 2 hours ahead of UTC.
In the Winter from 30th Oct to 27th March, they use Central European time, making them only 1 hour ahead of UTC.
Why Visit Croatia?
Other than the breathtaking views of lakes and mountains, the ancient towns and cities steeped in a rich and diverse cultural history, the fantastic Mediterranean food, gorgeous summer weather and friendly local inhabitants, there is so much to do and see in Croatia.
From cycling, island hopping, hiking, kayaking, swimming, sailing, canyoning, wine tasting, sightseeing, exploring art galleries & museums, participating in carnivals and music festivals, or even just simply driving around, this country has something for everyone.
