10 Best Places to Visit in Croatia in 2025

We’ve compiled the ten best places to visit in Croatia to help you make the most of your trip. Wherever you choose to travel, it’s bound to be outstanding. Our list will help you narrow down your choices!

Croatia is renowned for its extensive coastline, natural beauty, and picturesque historic towns with well-preserved ancient Roman architecture. It’s an alluring destination for travelers.

From the rugged limestone karsts of the Dinaric Alps to the iridescent turquoise waters of the Adriatic, it is one of the most stunningly beautiful countries we’ve ever visited. We spent two years as digital nomads in Zagreb, and the places we visited didn’t disappoint!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Croatia, our list is an excellent place to start. We list ten islands, parks, and cities well worth visiting. Whether you’re passing through for a few days or spending weeks or months there, we’ve got you covered!

Dubrovnik is touted as the most beautiful city in Croatia and certainly lives up to the hype. The fortified old town has exquisitely reconstructed Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic buildings.

It also has well-preserved city walls dating back to the 10th century, which you can walk along for stunning views of the old town. Entering the fortification through the Pile Gate, you are met by the Stradun, lined with shops and cafes, and the Onofrio Fountain, constructed in 1438.

Other old town highlights include the gothic-style Rector’s Palace, built in 1441, and Sponza Palace, as well as the gothic Dominican Monastery, built in the 15th and 16th centuries. The current Dubrovnik Cathedral, built in the 15th century, is known for its gorgeous Titian altarpiece.

Fort Lovrijenac is located directly beside Dubrovnik’s Old Town. It sits on a rocky outcrop and offers beautiful views over the walled city and the Adriatic Sea.

For even more spectacular views of Dubrovnik and the Dalmatian coastline, including some nearby islands, take the cable car or hike the trail of switchbacks up to the top of Mount Srd.

For beach lovers, there are a couple of hotspots near the city, like Banje Beach and Lapad Beach, where you can bathe in the azure waters. Dubrovnik is also an excellent access point for visiting islands like Mljet, Lokrum, Sipan, and Korcula, which have plenty more pristine beaches!

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you can look up film locations on Google Maps and reenact scenes. Find the Church of St. Dominic and record your “walk of shame” down the steps of picturesque Dominic Street.

There are also some excellent Game of Thrones tours. The most unique tour takes you to Lokrum Island, where diehard fans can sit on the original Iron Throne, which was given to Croatia after the HBO series ended!

Dubrovnik is deservedly one of the best places to visit in Croatia, and it’s on many traveler’s lists.

Split is a treasure trove of ancient Roman architecture. It is centrally along the Dalmatian coast, making it the best base for exploring many of Croatia’s popular attractions.

Except for Dubrovnik, Split’s old town is more expansive than many of Croatia’s other historical centers. Its history dates back to 293 AD, and remnants of Diocletian’s Palace from the 3rd and 4th centuries remain evident throughout the old town.

The Cathedral of Saint Domnius is a prominent attraction. It houses the 3rd-century Diocletian Mausoleum, a 57-meter 13th-century bell tower, and the baptistry.

The latter used to be the Temple of Jupiter but was converted in the 6th century. The bell tower offers a beautiful view over the tiled roofs of the old town with the imposing Dinaric Alps as a backdrop.

Klis fortress, perched in the hills high above Split, provides magnificent views over the valley and coastline. The fortress dates back to the 2nd century BC and was heavily relied upon by the Romans and Venetians in the 14th and 15th centuries.

For nature lovers, the seaside Marjan Forest Park is a lush refuge from the city. It has walking and biking trails and some pebbly beaches. There is also an abundance of scenic beaches close to the town. Restaurants and cafes are located at beaches like Bacvice Beach, Ježinac Beach, and Znjan Beach.

Spit is ideal for day trips to several historical and scenic sites. About 40 minutes away, Trogir, a small, charming town, offers an exciting mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and Roman architecture.

There is easy and convenient access by ferry to islands like Hvar, Brač, and Vis. The stunning Krka National Park is only about an hour away, and the charming town of Mostar, in Bosnia-Hercegovina, is about a two-hour drive.

Split is a lesser-known destination but still one of Croatia’s best places to visit.

As the country’s largest and most remarkable national park, Plitvice is a must-see attraction for any Croatian travel itinerary.

The park covers nearly 300 square kilometers and comprises 16 lakes, divided into Upper Lakes and Lower Lakes. The lakes lie at the bottom of a limestone canyon teeming with waterfalls.

The national park has several well-marked and maintained routes to navigate the lakes. It also has a few shuttle buses and boats to help shuttle visitors from one side of the park to the other.

The upper hiking trails and viewing platforms give a bird’s eye view of the network of iridescent teal pools running through the canyon. The lower walkways and hiking trails skirt the water’s edge, often crossing over the lakes and minor falls.

These paths allow visitors to get close to the largest and most magnificent falls, such as Veliki Slap and Veliki Prštavac Slap. (Note that in Croatian, slap means “waterfall” and veliki means “big.”)

The park offers breathtaking scenery year-round. It has icy frozen falls in winter, vibrant blooming flowers in spring, and crimson and amber foliage in fall. (The shoulder seasons are less busy.) Plitvice is genuinely one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Poised adjacent to Venice just across the sea, Rovinj is a little slice of Italy in north-western Croatia. In fact, you are more likely to hear Italian, rather than Croatian, being spoken.

This picture-perfect town is on a rocky outcrop on the Istrian Peninsula. Its hilltop Church of St. Euphemia crowns it. Climb St. Euphemia’s bell tower for a 360-degree view of the old town and the Adriatic coast.

The strong Venetian influence becomes evident as you wander through the maze of narrow, sloped streets between stone buildings outfitted with brightly colored wooden shutters.

Historical sites in the old town include the Rovinj Heritage Museum, which used to be a Baroque palace, Balbi’s Arch, the former city gate, and the clock tower in the main square.

While there are a few areas on the rocky base of the old town where sunbathers and swimmers can hang out close to restaurants and the main attractions, Golden Cape Forest Park across the bay boasts numerous beaches in a serene and expansive woodland. It is the ideal place to walk, bike ride, or swim.

Rovinj is also a convenient base for exploring other fascinating sites on the Istrian Peninsula. The impressive Roman Colosseum and Temple of Augustus in neighboring Pula are just a 45-minute bus ride away.

The ancient hilltop town of Motovun, dating back to the Celts, boasts spectacular views of the lush rolling hills below from the well-preserved city walls and is another easy day trip.

For those inspired by the Venetian influence in Rovinj, you can take a 2-hour and 45-minute ferry ride to Venice for a visit! Italy is one of those destinations that can be combined with Croatia.

We enjoyed Rovinj, one of our top choices for Croatia’s best places to visit.

Probably the best-known Croatian Island, Hvar is only a one-hour ferry ride from Split. It boasts a beautifully preserved old town, gorgeous natural landscapes, and a wide range of water sports.

One of the most enjoyable activities in any Croatian town is simply wandering through the old city’s narrow, winding cobblestone streets, and Hvar town is no different.

As you meander the lanes, getting glimpses of the turquoise sea between the stone buildings, you can visit the Renaissance-era Cathedral of St. Stephen, the 15th-century seaside Franciscan Monastery, and the Hvar Town Square.

The 16th-century Spanjola Fortress and the 17th-century Benedictine Monastery, perched above the town, offer a perfect blend of history and breathtaking scenery. Another ideal spot for panoramic views of the old town and Hvar port is from the old city walls constructed in the 13th century by the Venetians.

Hvar also appeals to nature lovers with its lavender fields, olive groves, wineries, and pine forests, which can be visited by bike or scenic drive. The island has many stunning beaches, including Sveta Nedelja, Pokonji Dol, Dubovica, and Mekicevica.

Water sports like kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, waterskiing, hoverboarding, and sailing are also popular here. Boat trips to neighboring islands like Vis are also available for a more relaxing excursion.

If you’re trying to narrow down islands, Hvar is one of Croatia’s best places to visit.

The island of Korcula offers a little bit of everything, from the fortified old town to the wineries, fishing villages, and beaches. It is easily accessed by ferry from Dubrovnik (about 2 hours) and Split (about 2.45 to 3 hours).

Those looking for relaxation may enjoy lounging on beaches like Bilin Zal and exploring quaint fishing villages like Lumbarda. At the same time, those seeking an active holiday can bike among the wineries or choose from a host of watersports.

Korcula is popular for kayaking, paddle boarding, and kitesurfing. Additionally, snorkeling and scuba diving sites are off the nearby islands of Stupe and Vela Luka, far north of the main island.

Korcula’s old town is tiny but charming, with restaurants and cafes lining the outer walls along the sea. Within the fortification are a few notable buildings, such as the Renaissance-inspired St. Mark’s Cathedral, the Bishop’s Treasury, and the 13th-century Revelin Tower, which houses the entrance gate into the old town.

Another fascinating site is Marco Polo’s Home, where the famed explorer was reportedly born. However, the current structure housing the museum dates back to the 17th century and was apparently built on the grounds of his birthplace.

There are also ferry connections to island hop between Hvar and Brač. Alternatively, you can take a 15-minute day trip across the strait to Orebić. You can explore the village and visit Our Lady of the Angels, a cliffside monastery with spectacular views there.

Korcula is an accessible destination to add to your itinerary and one of Croatia’s best places to visit.

Known for its old city walls, soothing sea organ, and breathtaking sunsets, Zadar is an excellent stop on any tour down the Croatian coast. The old town’s origins date back to the 9th century, and it has been ruled by the Romans, Venetians, and Austrians over the years.

Various popular attractions, such as the Roman Forum from the 1st century BC and St. Donatus Church, which exhibits the Baroque style from the 9th century, showcase the range of architectural styles.

The Land Gate, Kopnena Vrata, features a 16th-century Venetian lion sculpture. A few medieval remnants are also present, like the Church of St. Mary and the Captain’s Tower (which you can climb for stunning views of the old town and coastline).

The sea organ, unveiled in 2005, is a modern and unique addition to the northern end of the old town. It consists of tubes lying underneath the stone steps leading to the sea.

The low, melodious tune it plays varies with the pattern and force of the sea waves. It offers a serene atmosphere to sit and enjoy the town’s famous sunsets.

Starigrad is a tiny town on the shores of the Velebit Channel, backed by the looming Velebit mountains. The city is small and straightforward, but it is surrounded by magnificent scenery and is within walking distance of Paklenica National Park.

Paklenica is an expansive national park with two canyons—Mala (small) Paklenica and Velika (big) Paklenica. You’ll find hiking routes for all levels here and a few mountain huts where you can reserve a bed if you want to tackle one multi-day route.

Some popular treks include light day hikes to Pec Caves or Paklenica Mountain Hut, more strenuous treks to the summit of Sveto Brdo, or hiking between canyons from Mala to Velika Paklenica. Many lookouts offer a bird’ s-eye view of the canyon or a panoramic view of the nearby channel.

The best thing about Paklenica is its proximity to the sea. After a long day of trekking, you can walk out of the park entrance, through the tiny town, and onto a beach!

A refreshing little dip in the Adriatic is a refreshing way to relieve weary muscles and soothe aching feet. It doesn’t get any better than this!

It is important to note that another town called Starigrad is further south in Croatia, near Split. The city you want is Starigrad Paklenica. This is an important distinction when looking for transportation or accommodations!

In Croatian, stari grad translates to “old city,” so you might encounter it often when traveling around the country. If you like to hike, this is one of Croatia’s best places to visit.

Sibenik is an important ancient city on the Dalmatian coast. It was the first city in the region founded by Croats (as opposed to Greeks, Romans, or Illyrians).

It is home to some well-preserved historical buildings, including the 15th-century Cathedral of St. James, and a quaint but charming old town with buildings dating back 1,000 years.

It is famous for its four fortresses, three of which are well-maintained and provide picturesque views over the town’s terracotta-tiled roofs and alluring aquamarine sea.

St. Michael’s Fortress, St. John’s Fortress, and Foress Barone are perched above the town. At the same time, St. Nicholas Fortress is nestled next to the sea at the end of St. Anthony Channel.

Like most coastal towns in Croatia, Sibenik has several lovely beaches within a short walk or drive from the city. Rezaliste Beach, Ivan Beach, and Jadrija Beach are favorites among locals and foreigners.

Sibenik is also an ideal base for exploring Krka National Park, just a 13-km drive away. Krka is the minor sister of Plitvice National Park. It has seven stunning waterfalls and a 15th-century Franciscan Monastery on Visovac Island, in the middle of the lake’s namesake.

Easily accessible from Zadar, Pag Island is known for its barren moonlike landscape, which makes it uniquely different from the other islands in the archipelago. The jewel-toned sea appears even more vibrant against the island’s pale rocky landscape.

Despite its rugged appearance, Pag is home to some soft sandy beaches, like Ručica, Čista, and Trinćel, favored by sunbathers and swimmers. Zrće Beach is especially popular for its natural beauty and lively party atmosphere.

Pag is also an excellent island for nature lovers, with several beautiful camping destinations and a few hiking trails across the lunar landscape.

Hikers can enjoy treks with panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic, including the short but stunning 45-minute trek up to the highest peak on Pag, Vrh Sveti, or the somewhat challenging but rewarding Life on Mars trail.

The seaside town of Novalja is an ideal base from which to explore the island and has a few noteworthy sites. The history dates back to Roman times, with some ruins remaining on the island and an ethnographic display in the town museum.

The Church of Our Lady of the Rosary is a 17th-century basilica built on the base of a much earlier 4th-century structure. This all makes Pag one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Croatia is a fantastic country to travel through or live in as a digital nomad. Our list of the ten best places to visit in Croatia is the perfect starting point for short-term and long-term travelers.

Plan your trip around summer to avoid the heat and crowds, especially along the coast. We recommend going in spring and fall.

We’ve also curated a list of the best tours through Viator you can consider. Book ahead with free cancellation. Happy planning!

These are the most frequently asked questions about the best places to visit in Croatia.