Go for the pretty, pebbled beaches and stay for the rich history, scenic seaside towns and picturesque harbours — a trip to Croatia is a European experience to remember.
Explore the historic city of Dubrovnik and the diverse cultures in Zagreb. Soak up the sun over the Adriatic Sea’s turquoise waters and be sure to get off the beaten track to see nature’s beauty in the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Let’s explore the best of Croatia.
Best cities to visit in Croatia
Croatia’s cities are delightful. Romantic coastal cities with medieval walls bordering the ocean, then terraced lakes, contemporary art and Roman ruins ensure there’s always something new (or old) to explore.
Zagreb
The capital of Croatia, Zagreb is a city of churches, with numerous Catholic cathedrals dating to the 13th century. Located between the Medvednica Mountains and the north bank of the Sava River, this economic centre of Croatia contains many museums and the Croatian National Theatre ringing a green ‘Golden Horseshoe” parklands.
Zagreb’s nine-hundred-year-old Old Town is worth a visit, separated from today’s commercial activity, a charming oasis of preserved history. Take a walking tour to explore the many decorated buildings and see the Cathedral, the tallest building in Croatia.
Bunnik travellers in Zagreb, Croatia by Dennis Bunnik
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, Croatia by Jeremy van Heerde
In southern Croatia, Dubrovnik is best known for its distinctive Old Town, ringed with enormous stone walls built in the 16th century to protect the republic from foreign invasion. This Mediterranean coastal city has pebbled beaches, ancient monasteries and palaces and pretty terracotta rooftops, all in view from the top of the Old Town walls.
Walking along the city walls provides a panorama of the township, or take a cable car for a restful, breathtaking view of the red rooftops against the brilliant blue sea. Late afternoon is the best time to stroll the city walls, as crowds diminish and the heat wanes.
One of the best experiences here is a sunset cruise to gain a whole new perspective on this historic city. Bring a camera (or phone) to capture the glow of the setting sun against the stone walls.
Split
In ancient times, Split was ruled by the Greeks, Romans, Venetians and Hapsburgs, and today it’s the second largest city in Croatia.
One of the key attractions is the ruins of the Diocletian’s Palace, built in the third century for a Roman emperor. The complex spans around 30,000 square meters at the heart of the city, with around 3,000 people residing here now.
Split, Croatia by Jeremy van Heerde
The palace was designed to fulfil the whim of Emperor Diocletian to enter his palace directly from the ship’s deck. The lower tier of the palace was once covered with water to allow the ship to enter.
A local guide is essential for a Split city tour, as the stories and history of this much-filmed location bring the remains of what was once a huge palace complex to life. At night, the marble and granite columns topped with Corinthian capitals are illuminated and actors dressed in Roman attire perform with solemn voices that echo through the archways of the ancient palace.
After a day of sightseeing, Split has a robust nightlife with plenty of places to enjoy the exquisite local wine and seafood at leisure.
Hvar
Hvar, Croatia by Adam Dickson
Hvar Island in the Adriatic Sea is a stunning summer resort off the Dalmatian Coast. The port town has 13th-century walls, a hilltop fortress and a Renaissance Cathedral that borders the main square. At the Franciscan Monastery, a museum displays Greek, Roman and Venetian coins, an ancient 1524 edition of Ptolemy’s Atlas and a stunning 16th-century painting of The Last Supper by Venetian painter Matteo Ingoli.
The island has many idyllic, secluded beaches and coves that can be reached by boat. For example, Malo Zarace Beach is just a 30-minute drive from the main town, with unique rock formations and inviting crystal clear waters.
Another option within walking distance is Pokonji Dol, where turquoise waters contrast with green hills — the epitome of the Mediterranean seaside. Hire a sunbed and stay for dinner — this is the perfect place to soak up the holiday lifestyle.
When it’s time for dinner, quaint, home-style restaurants serve locally sourced Dalmatian cuisine. The cultivated inland landscape has rolling fields of lavender, olive groves and vineyards that produce delicious local wines.
Opatija
Home to perhaps the prettiest beaches in all of Croatia, Opatija was a trendy seaside destination for upper-class Austro-Hungarian society from 1867-1918 during the rule of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Villa Angiolina, a former summer residence that now holds the Croatian Museum of Tourism, displays workshops, exhibits and projects that reveal why Opatija is Croatia’s oldest tourist destination and health resort.
Opatija, Croatia by Adam Dickson
The park is dotted with sculptures by various famous artists. The most famous statue in this town is “Maiden with the Seagull”, crafted in 1956 by sculptor Zvonko Car. Standing alongside the Lungomare promenade, the maiden gazes eternally over Kvarner Bay.
How to get around Croatia
Within Croatia, buses and ferries connect coastal and inland destinations, with timetables varying depending on the season. Flights and trains are also handy ways to move between Zagreb and the coastal cities. In big cities like Dubrovnik and Zagreb, trams connect the key sites with ease.
However, it’s possible to skip all the hassle of downloading various local transport apps and calculating connections — on a small group tour with like-minded people, where transport is taken care of.
No matter which season, travelling by road or by boat provides convenience and ease. An air-conditioned tour bus with plenty of space to stretch out means that passengers arrive at each destination relaxed and rested, ready to take in the sights and sounds of each new location.
Of course, nothing beats cruising along the Dalmation coast — aboard a yacht, with stops in each picturesque coastal town — this is the perfect way to absorb the natural beauty of Croatia.
How to get to Croatia
Croatia has five international airports, and flying in from overseas is a seamless way to reach the destination, particularly if flights are included with the tour.
Croatia’s major airport is in Zagreb, with plenty of flights arriving and leaving from Dubrovnik as well. These two major cities are often the first destination to explore in Croatia. On arrival, there’s nothing like joining a group for dinner and starting the Croatian experience in collegial company.
Visitors touring Europe might enter Croatia over land from Slovenia or Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Croatian culture
Croatia’s culture is influenced by central Europe, Mediterranean and Balkan cultures. Many Croats’ are Catholic, and the cathedrals throughout the country are a testament to the prevalence of this religion in Croatia over time.
The distinctive red and white checkerboard design on jerseys of national sporting teams symbolises the ‘šahovnica’, or chessboard, a prevalent symbol used throughout Croatia since the tenth century.
Croatians are proud and style-conscious, perhaps influenced by nearby Italy or the long history of hosting Europe’s elite on holiday. Visitors wanting to explore a little style and class in their travel wardrobe will find Croatia is the perfect place to do so.
Slavic traditions and customs inform the calendar, with family and community the centre of social life. Family-run businesses are prevalent and people balance hard work and dedicated leisure time. Having a few Croatian phrases will make engaging with small businesses easier — and more enjoyable.
Delicious food and wine is a key part of the pleasures of life and Croatian cuisine is a mouth-watering experience to anticipate.
Why visit Croatia?
Pula Arena, Pula, Croatia by Adam Dickson
First popular as a travel destination back in the 17th century, Croatia remains a stunning and exotic European destination — one on many bucket lists. From the history to the beaches, there’s so much to see and do.
History
Rich Roman history features throughout each destination, from the Diocletian Palace to the Pula Arena, one of the six largest Roman amphitheatres in the world.
Scenic island hopping and coastal lifestyle
Crystal clear waters and calm seas make the pebbled beaches perfect for snorkelling, swimming and enjoying the sea from a yacht cruise. The relaxed atmosphere instantly puts visitors into holiday mode — an idyllic break from the daily hustle at home.
Fresh cuisine and local wine
Along the coast, the seafood is fresh and delicious, complimented perfectly by wine grown inland in extensive vineyards. Dishes blend Mediterranean, Balkan and Central European flavours, using local olive oil and paired with excellent wine. It’s easy to spend hours at a local winery, sipping, tasting and dining.
Popular culture experiences
Anyone who enjoyed watching Game of Thrones will recognise much of the scenery and iconic architecture from this popular series.
Be inspired to embark on an epic tour through Croatia’s glistening coastal and inland cities
This is just a glimpse into the fascinating cities of Croatia and a prompt to start planning an itinerary for Croatia. Whether cruising the coast, exploring the Jewels of Dalmatia or diving deep into the rich history and culture in each stunning city. Croatia offers a rich and relaxing experience.
Taste, see and breathe in the coastal air of Croatia, meet local people and share the freshest food on a small group tour with Bunnik Tours. Our local guides can’t wait to share this beautiful country’s history, hidden gems and wonderful culture.
Market stall, Hvar, Croatia by Christia Ferreria
Frequently asked questions
Which Croatian cities are best for historical and cultural attractions?
Dubrovnik has the best of Croatia’s variety, with a rich historical experience in the well-preserved city walls, medieval architecture, and of course, the beautiful ocean. Split is a close second, home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Diocletian’s Palace and rich in Roman history.
What’s the best seaside town in Croatia?
Opatija has the longest history of attracting tourists for good reason — it’s gorgeous, dotted with stunning sculptures and idyllic scenery.
What’s the best time of year to visit Croatia’s top cities?
During spring (May and June) or early autumn (September and October) the weather is pleasant, crowds are thinner than in the summer months and exploring Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split will be a more relaxing experience.
Visiting Croatia in winter is also rewarding if the opportunity presents itself — the snow-covered mountains are a true winter wonderland.