Historical architecture, sandy beaches, plentiful national parks and homegrown wine – it’s not hard to see why Croatia has become one of the top holiday destinations in Europe. With over 500 different islands and islets along the coastline as well as a sprawling mainland, the options of where to stay and what to see are endless if you’re planning a holiday to this part of the world.
Our luxury villas in Croatia are perfectly placed for exploring the mediaeval towns of Dubrovnik and Split, or simply relaxing on a beach in picturesque Istria. So, whether it’s your first visit to this sun-drenched spot or you’re a returner looking for some new sights to see, here are our top things to do in Croatia to help you plan your visit.
1. Bisevo Island’s Blue Cave
Like something out of a dream or fantasy film, the famous Blue Cave has become one of the most-loved Croatia tourist attractions. Located on Bisevo Island and easily accessible from Split or Hvar, it sees a natural glowing blue light bathe the rocky walls and water throughout the day, creating a magical and incredibly photogenic setting.
Visiting the Blue Cave is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Croatia, and if you’re already exploring the nearby island of Vis then it should be right at the top of your itinerary. We’d recommend visiting as part of a guided boat trip, meaning you’ll visit at the best time and get the chance to see other marvels in the area as part of the journey.
2. Old Town of Dubrovnik
One of the most popular places in Croatia to visit on holiday is the Old Town in Dubrovnik. This popularity is only partly down to its use as the filming location for Game Of Thrones‘ King’s Landing, so whilst it is a must-visit spot for superfans, there are still plenty of other reasons why it should be on your list for your trip.
As one of the finest mediaeval cities still standing today, Dubrovnik Old Town is found right on the Adriatic Sea at the edge of the city and has iconic red-roofed buildings that stand out against the bright blue of the water. Enclosed within imposing stony walls you’ll find Baroque churches and palaces, charming cobbled streets and stunning Renaissance fountains. It’s a fantastic spot for some of the most historic places to see in Croatia, with incredible views of both the buildings and the coast if you walk along the preserved town walls.
Check out our Dubrovnik travel guide for more tips on what to do throughout your visit here.
3. Lavender Fields of Hvar
One of the largest lavender producers in the world, Croatia typically falls under the radar when it comes to floral tourism. But visit in July and August and you’ll be wanting to return year after year.
The middle of summer is the period when their lavender is in full bloom, with a smell that matches the gorgeous sight you’ll find only in Hvar. One of the most stunning things to see in Croatia over the summer is the lavender fields around the island, providing a delightful experience for all the senses.
You can head out and find the fields yourself when you visit, or you could take part in a special lavender walking tour to visit some of the best spots on the island. There’s also a festival to celebrate the flower when it’s at its peak, held in Velo Grablje which was once the hub of all lavender production across Dalmatia.
4. Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace
As Croatia’s second-largest city, Split is a popular holiday base when visiting this part of the world. Among other architectural highlights, on the harbourside you’ll find Diocletian’s Palace which dates back to the Roman period and is still incredibly preserved in parts.
Topping many lists of things to do in Split, Croatia, Diocletian’s Palace boasts four gates, with one formerly opening out onto the water. Built as the retirement residence for one of Rome’s emperors, it still retains an impressive air of grandeur, especially when you consider its scale.
Today it’s filled with plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in addition to just taking in the staggering 4th century structure and the many ornamental features and intricate designs that combine to create a truly stunning piece of architecture.
5. Rent a boat
If you’re someone who wants to spend as much time as possible out on the water, one of the top things to do in Croatia is rent a boat and explore the coastline. With thousands of miles of cliffs and beaches to explore along the mainland, as well as over 70 islands and hundreds of islets, there’s more than enough space to explore on several holidays!
If you’ve got a day trip in mind then renting a boat means you don’t have to wait around for ferries or have to share the experience with other travellers like you would on an organised tour. If you’ve visited the country before and are feeling stuck on what to do in Croatia, renting a boat to explore under your own steam can be the perfect way to enjoy something new.
For a really special experience, you can easily spend several days chartering a private boat and sailing along in a yacht and hopping off at the various islands. Don’t miss Kornati National Park – it has 89 islets to manoeuvre your way around, with many having just a single fisherman’s cottage-turned-restaurant ashore. Just speak to our concierge team and they’ll be happy to get your plans underway, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or are looking for a vessel with a crew who can take all of the navigation and steering under their control.
6. Visit the 8 National Parks
Kornati is just one of Croatia’s eight national parks, meaning you can spend endless days chasing waterfalls, roaming the greenery and spotting wildlife throughout your stay. Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Croatia, holding 16 lakes, ample footpaths and hidden caves.
Mljet National Park near Dubrovnik has two unique saltwater lakes, and there’s also a charming restaurant on a tiny island that once housed a Benedictine monastery. The fourteen islands of Brijuni National Park can’t all be explored by ferry, but the main island Veli Brijuni has an archeological museum and several impressive Roman ruins.
Whichever national park you choose, you’ll find plenty of hiking trails that reward the dedicated with blissful panoramic views at the top. Many of the best places to go in Croatia are found in these protected areas, so you can be confident that you’re going to enjoy some of the country’s best scenery.
7. Truffle hunting
Croatia has become known for its truffles, with the divisive ingredient instantly elevating a variety of dishes around the country. Should you choose to visit Istria in September and are looking for memorable activities in Croatia, you’ll find yourself swept up in the start of the truffle hunting season – the perfect time to head out to Mirna River Valley and attempt to find some yourself with trained dogs or pigs in tow.
Istria is also home to some of the best beaches, meaning you can unwind on the sand after enjoying a truffle-filled meal. September will still have warm enough weather to appreciate spending time on the sand, so you can combine a bit of relaxation with exploring the woods further inland.
Sounds a little too rogue for you? Don’t worry: foodies will be catered for even without the use of this unusual mushroom in their food. We’d suggest giving Pag cheese a try, which is made from sheep’s milk on the island of the same name. For a more hearty dish, peka is popular with locals, seeing cooks slow-cook veal and potatoes in a bell-shaped, coal-topped pot.
8. Museum of Broken Relationships
Found in Zagreb, paying a visit to the Museum of Broken Relationships is one of the most unique things to do in Croatia. Bizarre in concept but surprisingly interesting in reality, this museum is filled with artefacts taken from failed relationships.
Some of the items in the exhibitions will have you laughing out loud, others relating though you wish you couldn’t, and a further few may even have you shedding a tear. Come prepared to feel all the emotions! It’s a great way to pass the time if you fancy an afternoon indoors, and definitely one of the best places in Croatia to visit for something out of the ordinary.
9. Zlatni Rat Beach
Known for its widely photographed spit, which is composed of fine pebbles, Zlatni Rat Beach in Bol on Brač island is equally enjoyable from the ground. It’s one of the popular places in Croatia to visit in the summer, often also referred to as Golden Horn Beach, offering an incredible beach experience in one of the country’s most photographed places.
Shaded by the Vidova Gora mountain, Zlatni Rat is a great spot to try out kayaking, banana boats or even windsurfing. However, the ample sunbeds and parasols make it an equally inviting location if all you wish to do is soak up the sun’s rays, shining brightly from May through to October.
10. Zadar’s Romanesque Churches
One of the best things to do in Croatia for those who can appreciate fine architecture, the car-free Old Town of Zadar is perfect for spending an afternoon wandering around. The main attraction is its Romanesque churches, built between the 9th and 13th century, holding similarly impressive design features within as they do without.
While you’re in the area, we’d also suggest checking out the Sea Organ. Installed in 2005, it works with the movement of the sea’s waves to create natural, atmospheric music. It’s up there on many lists of what to visit in Croatia thanks to its unique nature and the almost haunting experience it provides.
With so many different places to explore, the list of things to do in Croatia is truly endless. We hope that these recommendations have given you a taste of what’s on offer and inspired you to start planning a holiday to the country that is filled with different activities involving the culture, landscape and cuisine.
That may be our top 10 things to do in Croatia, but there’s so much more to explore throughout your stay in one of our luxury villas in Croatia. Still not convinced? Check out our Reasons To Visit Croatia blog, and then get in contact with a member of our concierge team to start your holiday booking process.
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