🇭🇷 Croatia Travel Guide
Croatia has a little bit of everything, from ancient cities and turquoise coastlines to hidden islands and incredible food. Every part of the country feels different, which makes it perfect for exploring. Spend your mornings wandering old stone streets, your afternoons sailing past quiet coves, and your evenings eating fresh seafood by the water. Whether you’re here for history, beaches, or just a slow-paced escape, this Croatia travel guide covers the best spots to visit and what to see along the way.
Dubrovnik:
Straight Out of a Storybook
Dubrovnik lives up to the hype. The old town is stunning, with winding streets, orange-tiled rooftops, and incredible views of the Adriatic. Walk the ancient city walls, take the cable car up Mount Srđ for the best views, and wander down to hidden beaches when you need a break from the crowds. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize plenty of filming locations, but even without that connection, the city feels cinematic on its own. Stay inside the walls if you want to be in the center of everything, or choose Lapad for a quieter spot near the water. Read our full Dubrovnik guide →
Zagreb:
Laid-Back and Full of Character
Zagreb doesn’t get as much attention as the coast, but it’s worth adding to your Croatia itinerary. The city has a mix of historic charm and modern energy, with open squares, leafy parks, and busy café-lined streets. Wander through the old town, check out Dolac Market for fresh local produce, and take a break at one of the many outdoor terraces. Zagreb also has a great collection of museums, from art and history to the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships. It’s an easy city to explore on foot and has a slower pace compared to the coastal spots, which makes it a nice change of pace during a Croatia trip. Read our full Zagreb guide →
Split:
Where History Meets the Sea
Split is the kind of place where ancient history and beach life come together perfectly. At the heart of the city is Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman-era complex that’s now filled with cafés, shops, and hidden courtyards. Spend your mornings wandering the palace walls, then head to the Riva promenade for a late lunch overlooking the water. If you’re looking for a day trip, hop on a ferry to Hvar, Brač, or Vis for a taste of island life. Split is lively but laid-back, and it’s easy to mix sightseeing with lazy afternoons by the sea. Read our full Split guide →
Know Before You Go: Croatia
Best Time to Visit
May to September for beach trips and island-hopping. April and October are great for fewer crowds and cooler weather. December brings charming Christmas markets and winter festivals.
Currency
Euro (€)
Language
Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas and major cities.
Getting Around
Croatia’s buses and ferries connect most cities and islands easily. Trains work well for Zagreb and inland towns, but buses are faster along the coast. Renting a car is best if you want to explore smaller villages and hidden beaches.
Travel Tip
Base yourself in one city and plan day trips by ferry or bus. Dubrovnik, Split, and the islands are surprisingly well-connected, making it easy to see more in less time.