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Croatia

Croatia, where the Adriatic Sea sparkles beside medieval towns and pine-scented islands, offers a rich blend of culture, nature, and coastal bliss. This Eastern European gem is a rising star among holiday destinations, captivating visitors with its terracotta rooftops, Roman ruins, unspoiled beaches, and hearty cuisine. Start your adventure in Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic, where stone walls and baroque buildings whisper tales of centuries past. Stroll along the city walls or take a cable car up Mount Srđ for panoramic views. Head north to Split, a vibrant port city where Diocletian’s Palace houses shops, bars, and homes. Zagreb, the capital, charms with its Austro-Hungarian architecture and buzzing café culture. Nature lovers are spoilt for choice—Plitvice Lakes National Park wows with cascading turquoise waterfalls and wooden walkways. For a beach escape, Croatia's islands beckon: Hvar with its glitz and lavender fields; Brač for windsurfing; Korčula for wine and medieval charm. Croatia balances relaxation with adventure. Sail the Dalmatian coast, kayak around caves, or hike the Dinaric Alps. Foodies will fall for fresh seafood, truffle-infused dishes, and local wines. With a welcoming vibe and Mediterranean climate, Croatia is perfect for family vacations, romantic getaways, or solo explorations. Whether you're sunbathing on Zlatni Rat Beach or exploring Istria’s hilltop villages, Croatia serves up an unforgettable experience filled with sunshine, stories, and stunning scenery.  

Travila Croatia Travel Guide

What to know before Travelleing

Paris is known around the world as the “capital of love,” and even if you don't understand the history of Paris at all

Language: Croatian
Peak Season: June to September
Time Zone: UTC+1 (CET)
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Travila

2.5 – 3 Hours

Average Flight Time

€2.50 – €3.00

Price Of Pint
Transport
Best time to visit

Why book Croatia

Sun-Drenched Coastlines

Croatia boasts over 1,700 kilometers of coastline and more than 1,200 islands. Its sun-drenched shores and crystal-clear waters make it a top pick for beach lovers. From the iconic Zlatni Rat to secluded coves in Vis, there's a stretch of paradise for everyone.

Rich Historical Heritage

Croatia’s history is woven into every corner—from Roman amphitheaters in Pula to Venetian influences in Rovinj. Explore ancient towns and UNESCO sites while enjoying the preserved charm of a bygone era.

Affordable Luxury

Enjoy Mediterranean luxury without the high price tag. Croatia offers a fantastic value with quality accommodation, delicious food, and scenic experiences all at affordable prices.

Diverse Experiences

Whether you want to island-hop, hike through national parks, or sip wine in hilltop villages, Croatia has something for every traveller type—romantic, active, or cultural.

Tantalising Cuisine

Croatian food blends Mediterranean and Balkan influences. Enjoy dishes like black risotto, peka, and truffle pasta alongside wines from Istria and Dalmatia.

Easy Access from Europe

With well-connected airports and ferry routes, getting to and around Croatia is simple, making it a convenient and stress-free destination for European travellers.

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Your guide to the Croatia

Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik’s Old Town, famously dubbed the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is one of Croatia’s most iconic and culturally rich destinations. Enclosed by massive medieval walls that have stood the test of time, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a living museum where cobbled streets, historic palaces, and baroque churches transport visitors to another era. Walking through its gates is like stepping into a fairytale—one that’s captivated the hearts of travelers and filmmakers alike, with Dubrovnik famously serving as the backdrop for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. The city walls, stretching nearly 2 kilometers, offer panoramic views of the shimmering Adriatic Sea on one side and the terracotta rooftops of the Old Town on the other. It’s a must-do activity that gives insight into the city's defensive history while also offering unbeatable photo opportunities. Inside the walls, Stradun—Dubrovnik’s main pedestrian street—is lined with cafes, boutiques, and centuries-old buildings, making it the heartbeat of the Old Town. Cultural landmarks abound. The Rector’s Palace, once the seat of the Republic of Ragusa, showcases Gothic-Renaissance architecture and now houses the Cultural History Museum. The Franciscan Monastery is home to one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe, still in operation today. Meanwhile, Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Church of St. Blaise impress with their artistic grandeur and spiritual importance. Despite its age, Dubrovnik’s Old Town is very much alive. Summer sees the streets filled with music during the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, where performances are held in open-air settings. Art galleries, artisan shops, and gourmet restaurants breathe modern life into ancient walls. Whether you're a history buff, photographer, or curious wanderer, Old Town Dubrovnik offers an experience both timeless and unforgettable.

Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s most celebrated natural wonder, and with good reason. Spanning nearly 300 square kilometers in the heart of the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a sanctuary of cascading waterfalls, emerald lakes, dense woodlands, and vibrant flora and fauna. It’s a place that seems almost magical in its perfection, drawing nature lovers, photographers, and families from across the globe. The park consists of 16 terraced lakes, interconnected by waterfalls and divided into upper and lower lake systems. Wooden footbridges and gravel trails weave through this aquatic maze, allowing visitors to walk just inches above crystal-clear waters where fish glide lazily by. The Great Waterfall (Veliki Slap) is the park’s tallest at 78 meters and is particularly breathtaking after heavy rain. Each season reveals a different side of Plitvice. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and rushing falls; summer offers lush greenery and clear skies; autumn cloaks the park in gold and crimson; and winter turns the landscape into a snow-dusted fantasy. No matter when you visit, the park’s charm is undeniable. Hiking is the main activity here, with well-marked trails catering to all fitness levels. You can explore short loops or take a full-day route combining walking, boat rides, and scenic tram rides. The boat trip across Kozjak Lake is particularly serene, offering a peaceful way to admire the surrounding forested slopes. Plitvice is also a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is home to bears, wolves, lynxes, and hundreds of bird species. Though many animals remain elusive, the signs of their presence make the adventure even more thrilling. Visitors are advised to start early to beat the crowds, especially in summer. A visit to Plitvice is not just a day trip—it’s a spiritual escape into nature’s untouched masterpiece.

Sailing the Dalmatian Islands
Sailing the Dalmatian Islands

Few holiday experiences rival the thrill and serenity of sailing through Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands. With over a thousand islands dotting the Adriatic Sea, this stretch of the coast offers the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and cultural richness. Whether you're chartering a yacht, joining a guided sailing tour, or hopping ferries between the main islands, exploring the Dalmatian coast by water is an unforgettable journey. Start your adventure from Split or Dubrovnik, where marinas are bustling with sleek yachts and charming catamarans. One of the most popular routes includes stops at Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula—each offering a distinct vibe and attractions. Hvar is known for its chic nightlife, lavender fields, and historic fortresses. Brač is home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach, a stunning stretch of shifting golden sand. Vis, once closed to foreign visitors due to its strategic military importance, now charms with its slow pace and unspoiled beauty. Korčula, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” boasts medieval walls and claims to be the birthplace of Marco Polo. Beyond the main islands, smaller gems like Šolta, Mljet, and Lastovo provide peaceful retreats away from tourist crowds. These islands are perfect for swimming in turquoise bays, snorkeling over reefs, or simply anchoring in quiet coves under a sky full of stars. The sailing lifestyle also means fresh seafood right off the boat, local wines in waterfront taverns, and daily sunsets from your deck. Croatia’s island harbors are remarkably well-equipped, and English is widely spoken, making navigation and communication smooth for visitors. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a curious traveller on a skippered voyage, the Dalmatian Islands offer the quintessential Croatian coastal escape—laid-back, luxurious, and impossibly scenic.

Istria Food & Wine Tour
Istria Food & Wine Tour

Tucked into Croatia’s northwestern corner, the Istrian Peninsula is a dream destination for food lovers. With its rolling vineyards, olive groves, hilltop towns, and coastal charm, Istria is often compared to Tuscany—but with a unique Croatian twist. The region’s culinary scene is deeply rooted in tradition yet embraces innovation, making every meal and sip a delightful discovery. Start in Rovinj, a seaside town with Venetian flair, where cobblestone streets lead to romantic waterfront restaurants serving the catch of the day. Move inland to Motovun and Grožnjan—hill towns famous for their stone houses, panoramic views, and gourmet festivals. Autumn is especially special, as it's truffle season. Istria is home to both black and white truffles, and local farms offer truffle-hunting tours with trained dogs, culminating in decadent tasting sessions. Wine is an integral part of Istrian culture. The region’s terroir, influenced by red earth and Mediterranean breezes, produces outstanding varietals like Malvazija (white) and Teran (red). You’ll find family-run wineries scattered across the peninsula, where visitors are welcomed like old friends. Tastings are often paired with cheeses, cured meats, and homemade breads, creating a warm, rustic experience. Olive oil is another Istrian treasure. In fact, Istrian olive oils have won international awards for their purity and taste. Many producers offer tours of their groves and press houses, allowing you to learn about the extraction process and sample different oils. The food here reflects the region’s Italian, Slovenian, and Austro-Hungarian influences. Think handmade pasta (fuži), grilled meats, seafood stews (brodet), and fresh vegetables from local markets. Each dish is prepared with care, often passed down through generations. An Istrian food and wine tour is more than a gastronomic experience—it’s a journey through landscapes, cultures, and stories that make Croatia’s northwestern coast so memorable and delicious.

Zagreb City Break
Zagreb City Break

Zagreb, Croatia’s dynamic capital, offers a refreshingly different experience from the coastal tourist hotspots. Nestled between the Sava River and the southern slopes of Medvednica Mountain, Zagreb blends old-world charm with modern vibrancy, making it a perfect city break destination. It’s a city of museums, street art, historic squares, lively markets, and a coffee culture that rivals Vienna’s. The city is divided into two main parts: the historic Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and the lively Lower Town (Donji Grad). Gornji Grad is where you’ll find cobbled streets, gas-lit lanterns, and medieval architecture. St. Mark’s Church, with its colorful tiled roof, is one of Zagreb’s most photographed landmarks. Nearby, the Lotrščak Tower offers panoramic views of the city and a daily cannon blast that marks noon—a tradition dating back to the 19th century. Donji Grad, on the other hand, is more modern and expansive, with wide boulevards, parks, and Austro-Hungarian architecture. Ban Jelačić Square is the city’s central hub, often alive with events and street performers. Radiating from here are pedestrian streets lined with cafes, perfect for sipping coffee and people-watching. Tkalčićeva Street is a must-visit for nightlife and dining, while the green horseshoe of parks offers a peaceful urban escape. Zagreb also surprises with its quirky attractions. The Museum of Broken Relationships is an emotional and innovative exhibition featuring items from failed romances, while the Museum of Illusions delights with mind-bending exhibits. For traditional culture, visit Dolac Market to see locals buying fresh produce and handmade goods. With fewer crowds than Dubrovnik and a welcoming local vibe, Zagreb is ideal for travellers who want to explore Croatia’s urban soul. Add in excellent tram connectivity, affordable accommodation, and year-round events, and you’ve got a European city break that’s as charming as it is underrated

Adventure in Paklenica National Park
Adventure in Paklenica National Park

For travellers seeking an adrenaline rush or a deep immersion in nature, Paklenica National Park is a top choice. Located on the southern slopes of the Velebit Mountains near Zadar, this rugged and dramatic landscape is a paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Unlike the softer beauty of Plitvice, Paklenica offers a wilder, more vertical adventure—towering cliffs, hidden caves, deep canyons, and scenic trails crisscross the region, making it Croatia’s premier hiking and rock-climbing destination. The park is most famous for its two impressive canyons: Velika Paklenica and Mala Paklenica. Velika Paklenica is the more accessible of the two and is home to the towering Anica Kuk rock face—one of Europe’s best-known climbing spots. With over 400 climbing routes, both beginners and professionals flock here from around the world. Even if you’re not climbing, watching climbers tackle the vertical limestone walls is thrilling. Hiking trails range from short walks to multi-day treks, offering stunning views over the Adriatic Sea and the surrounding forested peaks. One of the most popular trails leads to the Paklenica Mountain Hut, a great stop for refreshments and rest before exploring higher elevations like Bojin Kuk or Sveto Brdo, the second-highest peak in the Velebit range. The park is rich in biodiversity, home to over 1,000 plant species and wildlife like eagles, owls, lynx, and even bears (though they are very rarely seen). Birdwatchers will find this a particularly rewarding area, especially in spring and autumn migrations. Paklenica is easily accessible from Zadar, making it perfect for day trips or longer stays. For those who want to combine nature, sport, and dramatic landscapes, Paklenica is a thrilling part of any Croatian adventure itinerary..

Romantic Getaway to Rovinj
Romantic Getaway to Rovinj

Few places in Croatia exude romance quite like Rovinj. Set on the Istrian Peninsula, this charming coastal town is a mosaic of pastel-colored houses, narrow cobbled lanes, and stunning sea views. It feels timeless and intimate—a place where every sunset seems to have been painted for lovers. The town’s centerpiece is the Church of St. Euphemia, perched high above the old town. A gentle climb up winding streets leads you to its bell tower, where breathtaking panoramic views of the rooftops and Adriatic await. Stroll hand-in-hand down the lantern-lit promenade or get lost in the labyrinthine alleys where artists display their work in tiny galleries. Rovinj’s waterfront is lined with romantic restaurants and wine bars, many of which offer candlelit dinners with views of the harbor. Fresh seafood is a staple here—don’t miss dishes like buzara (shellfish stew) or grilled Adriatic squid. For something extra special, book a table at one of Rovinj’s Michelin-starred restaurants, such as Monte, for a culinary experience that perfectly complements the town’s elegance. By day, couples can take a private boat ride to nearby Red Island, sunbathe on hidden beaches, or rent bikes to explore Istria’s scenic coastline. The nearby Golden Cape Forest Park is perfect for shaded walks, picnics, and swimming in quiet bays. Rovinj is also a great base for exploring Istrian wine country. Visit boutique wineries and olive oil farms for tastings, or explore nearby towns like Poreč and Motovun. Whether you're celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, or just planning a surprise trip for two, Rovinj offers the perfect mix of beauty, intimacy, and timeless romance.

Festival Fun in Split
Festival Fun in Split

If you’re looking to combine history, beach life, and a pulsating festival scene, Split should be at the top of your Croatian travel list. As the second-largest city in Croatia, Split balances ancient roots with youthful energy. And nowhere is this more evident than during its annual festivals, which transform the city into a buzzing hub of art, music, and celebration. At the heart of Split lies Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO-listed Roman structure that isn’t just a historical site—it’s the living, breathing core of the city. Its courtyards, narrow alleys, and cellars now house bars, shops, galleries, and apartments. During festivals, these spaces come alive with open-air performances, pop-up markets, and cultural exhibitions. Split’s most famous event is the Ultra Europe Music Festival, held every July. This electronic dance music extravaganza draws thousands of international visitors and top global DJs to Poljud Stadium. For partygoers and music lovers, it’s a must-attend. But even outside Ultra, Split’s summer calendar is packed with beach parties, jazz nights, art installations, and theatre performances. The Split Summer Festival showcases classical concerts, ballets, and plays in stunning open-air venues like the Peristyle Square and Sustipan Park. Meanwhile, Days of Diocletian transports visitors back to Roman times with parades, reenactments, and traditional feasts. In between events, Split’s beaches like Bačvice and Žnjan offer a chance to relax, swim, or try the local game of picigin—a water sport played in shallow sea. The city’s promenade, Riva, is ideal for sipping cocktails, watching street performers, or joining in spontaneous celebrations. Split seamlessly blends the ancient with the avant-garde, making it perfect for travelers who want culture by day and celebration by night. If you’re in search of sun, music, and memory-making vibes, Split delivers in spades.

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