Croatia tours & vacations

Croatia is a dream destination no matter when you go, but timing can make all the difference based on your interests. Summer (June to August) is the classic choice – hot, sunny and perfect for eating seafood along Split’s coast or setting sail off Dubrovnik. But, it’s also peak tourist season and the crowds can feel like a sea of their own.

For this reason, the shoulder seasons are the ideal time to visit. Late spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) bring all the perks of summer – swimmable seas and warm, sunny days – without the chaos. It’s the best time to wander Krka’s trails and waterfalls or claim your spot on one of the many pristine beaches.

Spring is a quieter, cooler way to experience Croatia. Inland national parks are lush, ancient towns like Zagreb and Rovinj feel wonderfully local and the mild weather makes everything more comfortable. But don't shy away from a visit in December when Europe’s Christmas markets, mulled wine and medieval squares are at their most magical.

Learn more about the best time to visit Croatia

Croatian cuisine is heavily influenced by its surrounding countries. Separated from Italy by the Adriatic Sea, cuisine along the coast tends to have more of a Mediterranean flair. Fish and seafood are integral to many coastal dishes, such as brodet (fish stew) and crni rizot (black risotto made with squid). Homemade pasta and olive oil are also dietary staples. Further inland, you’ll find heartier dishes with Austrian, Hungarian and Turkish influences such as cobanac (a goulash-like stew) and kulen (paprika-seasoned sausage).

Things to try in Croatia

Pasticada

A slow-cooked, braised beef dish cooked in a sweet and sour sauce, usually served with gnocchi. This Dalmatian staple can be found in many restaurants in this region. 

Manestra

There are many variations to Istria’s hearty take on minestrone soup, but it usually includes beans, corn and meat.

Paski sir

This popular hard cheese is produced exclusively from the milk of sheep on the Island of Pag. It gets its unique pungent taste from the sheep’s aromatic herb diet.

Cevapi

These grilled skinless sausages are common throughout Croatia and are usually served with onions and ajvar (a red capsicum relish) on a flatbread.

Brudet

This tasty fish stew is a typical dish along the coastal regions and is typically made up of different types of fish, squids, tomato, onion, herbs and wine, often served with polenta.  

Sharing borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia and Montenegro, Croatia benefits from more than 5,000 km of coastline that spans along the Adriatic Sea. In addition to the mainland, Croatia also has many islands, some inhabited, some not. Croatia's terrain is very diverse and varies from flat plains to low mountains and highlands, limestone karst cliffs, wetlands, lakes and forests of cypress. Nature reserves and wetland areas are home to large populations of migratory birds, deer, bats and bears.

Visitors will also see much of the land is used for agriculture with vineyards, lavender fields, olive groves and orchards being prevalent in rural areas. Croatia's cities, while developed, have managed to maintain a high level of charm with cobblestone streets, ancient housing, historic squares and heritage buildings being preserved and still used by the current population.

1. Islands of Kornati

There are plenty of enchanting islands along the coast of Croatia but perhaps none more so than the secluded Kornati, a collection of 89 spectacular islands full of islets and reef systems just waiting to be explored. Known as the largest and densest archipelago in the Adriatic region, the Kornatis present the perfect way to spend a couple of days with beautiful bays to swim in and fascinating nature parks to adventure through.

2. Dubrovnik

Steeped in both beauty and history, Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed Old Town is, quite simply, the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. With its beautiful white stone-covered buildings, tiled-roof houses, and limestone streets all encompassed within sea-facing city walls, this city is full of charm and splendor. Whether you want to wander the bustling streets on foot or view the town from the sparkling water of the Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is one character-filled city you can’t miss.

3. Lokrum

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik then setting sail for the small island of Lokrum is the best way to achieve it. Covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by sparkling blue waters, this sleepy island presents the perfect opportunity to relax under the warm Croatian sun. Whether you want to soak up the rays on rocks by the sea or wander through the Botanical Garden, you’re guaranteed to find peace within Lokrum’s stunning surroundings.

4. Zadar

Once the capital city of Dalmatia, Zadar boasts a rich heritage that’s easily visible when you start wandering its ancient buildings, such as the Roman Forum and St Donatus’ Church. From walking through cultural exhibitions at the Museum of Church Art and exploring the spirited fish markets at the port to admiring the ‘Greeting to the Sun’, a modern monument dedicated to the sun, this energetic destination will surely capture your heart.

5. Korcula

Korcula Island is a hidden gem with as many beautiful sights and ancient buildings as some of the bigger islands, such as Hvar, but without the crowds. Offering a lot of sun to soak up, plenty of golden sandy beaches to lie on, and an abundance of sparkling blue waters to swim in, this seaside destination is truly one-of-a-kind. And you can't forget about the food. From traditional beef stews to the sweet delicacy of travarica, you'll never go hungry in Korcula.

6. Split

Split may be Croatia’s second largest city (after Zagreb) but it’s first when it comes to personality and soul with historic streets, a World-Heritage listed palace, and a vibrant mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants scattered throughout its picturesque Old Town. From sipping on frothy kava at a table on the Riva waterfront promenade to listening to street musicians filling ancient courtyards, Split promises to take your Croatian tour to another level.

7. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Gaining World Heritage listed status 20 years ago, this spectacular park covers 19 hectares of wooded hills and 16 turquoise-covered lakes all connected by a series of waterfalls that won’t hesitate to take your breath away. Whether you want to spot some wild animals (think wolves, deer, and birds), wander through the park’s forest vegetation, or simply marvel at the landscape, this dazzling park will be etched in your mind forever.

8. Zagreb

If culture’s what you’re after, then visiting the spirited city of Zagreb should be high on your Croatia bucket list. Bursting with museums such as the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships or the more traditional Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, and historic locations such as the Mirogoj Cemetery and Lotrščak Tower, you’ll never run out of things to do in Zagreb. Perfect for exploring on foot, this lively destination blends the best of crafts, cuisine, and culture for an adventure you’ll want to relive over and over again.

9. Osijek

On the surface, Osijek may seem like just another breathtaking Croatian town but as soon as you start wandering its streets full of grand buildings and popular landmarks, you’ll see why it deserves to be explored. With a laidback atmosphere and bubbling personality, this town will easily have you entranced from its many cafes and restaurants lining the Drava River to its captivating medieval structures. Spend your time walking through the Museum of Slavonia or strolling down the European Avenue for an in-depth look at this remarkable region.

10. Hvar

If Dubrovnik is known as the ‘Jewel of the Dalmatian Coast’ then Hvar is the ‘Queen of the Dalmatian Islands’ thanks to its picture-perfect town full of wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades. Boasting plenty to do including admiring the views of the town and the Adriatic Sea from the Spanjola Fortress, wandering the streets full of unusual boutiques and interesting galleries, and sipping on cocktails at a bar by the water, this spectacular island town is like something straight out of a fairytale. 

Croatia has been home to humans since the Stone Age. Thanks to its geographical position in Europe, it has been influenced by neighboring regions, with tribes and people from different cultures and groups making their mark.

Croatia’s modern history is a result of resilience and transformation. After gaining independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, the country emerged into an era of peace and reconciliation, joining the European Union in 2013.

Generally, Croatians are very proud of their country and cultural heritage. The Slavic heritage of Croatian people is evident during festivals like the Spancirfest, Full Moon Festivals and the Korcula Sword Dance Festival, where cities and villages come to life with traditional costumes, folk music and feasts.

The people of Croatia have a great deal of national pride and a strong connection to their country and family. It’s quite common for extended families to live together and children to remain close to their parents well into adulthood. Time for leisure and family is highly valued, particularly along the coast, where many offices end their day in the early afternoon.

Learn more about festivals in Croatia

The official currency of Croatia is the Euro (EUR).  

Large hotels, restaurants and tourist sites will most likely accept credit cards, but it’s recommended to always carry enough cash for smaller purchases. Smaller cafes, hotels and vendors like market stalls may not accept cards.  

ATMs are readily available throughout Croatia. Cities and large towns will have ATM access but it’s variable in small villages or rural areas, so prepare accordingly when travelling out of urban areas.