From fairytale old towns to waterfall-filled national parks, here’s where to go in Croatia for an unforgettable trip.
Croatia is one of those places that truly has it all—ancient cities hugging the coast, emerald islands floating in the Adriatic, and national parks that look like they’ve been pulled from a postcard. Whether you’re dreaming of Game of Thrones-style fortresses, turquoise waterfalls, or sipping wine by the sea, this Balkan beauty delivers.
I spent weeks road-tripping from north to south and hopping between islands, and I can tell you: each place has its own magic. This guide takes you through the best places to visit in Croatia, mixing iconic must-sees with some under-the-radar favorites.
Let’s start with the heavy-hitters.
1. Dubrovnik
Best for History Buffs and Game of Thrones Fans
Welcome to the crown jewel of the Adriatic. Dubrovnik, perched on Croatia’s southern coast, is everything you’ve seen in the photos—a walled city drenched in history, with red-roofed buildings and narrow stone alleys that feel like stepping back in time. If you’ve seen Game of Thrones, you’ll recognize it instantly as King’s Landing.
Walk the ancient city walls (yes, the full loop—it’s worth it), and you’ll get sweeping views of the sea, the harbor, and the terracotta roofs that glow golden at sunset. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Every corner oozes character, from Baroque churches to hidden wine bars tucked in stairwells.
If you want a secret spot, head to Buza Bar, a literal hole-in-the-wall cliffside bar where you can sip a cold Karlovačko while watching cliff jumpers take flight into the Adriatic.
Local tip: Try to visit in shoulder season (May or September). It’s still sunny and warm, but you’ll avoid the peak summer crowds that pack the Old Town like sardines.
2. Split
Best for Ancient Ruins Meets Beach Life
Split is like the cool older cousin who knows how to blend history and beach vibes effortlessly. Located midway down Croatia’s coast, it’s home to Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman emperor’s retirement home turned thriving city center. And get this—it’s not a preserved museum; locals actually live and work inside it.
Wander through the palace’s stone alleyways and you’ll stumble upon wine bars, artisan shops, and even underground cellars used as filming locations for—you guessed it—Game of Thrones.
But Split isn’t all about the past. You can hike up Marjan Hill for panoramic views, or spend the afternoon swimming at Bacvice Beach, famous for locals playing a game called picigin (kind of like handball in shallow water).
If you’re headed to the islands, Split is also the perfect jumping-off point. Ferries to Hvar, Brač, and Vis leave daily from its busy port.
Don’t miss: A plate of pašticada (Dalmatian beef stew) with gnocchi and a glass of Plavac Mali red wine.
3. Zagreb
Best for City Lovers and Culture Seekers
Zagreb doesn’t get as much attention as the coast, but Croatia’s capital has its own laid-back charm that’s perfect if you love a good café culture and artsy neighborhoods. It’s inland, closer to Slovenia than the sea, but don’t let that deter you.
Start in Upper Town (Gornji Grad), where cobblestone streets wind past the colorful St. Mark’s Church, the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships, and the cannon that fires from Lotrščak Tower at noon every day (don’t be alarmed—it’s tradition).
Zagreb’s vibe is youthful, intellectual, and effortlessly cool. Locals love their coffee, and you’ll find the city’s heartbeat in its countless outdoor cafés. One of my favorite spots is Tkalčićeva Street—a lively strip lined with terrace bars, indie boutiques, and great people-watching.
Bonus tip: Zagreb has the best shopping in the country, from local fashion designers to vintage shops and open-air markets like Dolac Market.
4. Hvar
Best for Island Glamour and Party Vibes
If you’re craving an island escape with a side of style, Hvar is calling. Located off the Dalmatian Coast, it’s known for lavender fields, crystal-clear coves, chic beach clubs, and a nightlife scene that goes till sunrise. Think of it as Croatia’s St. Tropez—but more relaxed.
The main town, Hvar Town, is a stunner with its marble streets, Venetian architecture, and a harbor full of luxury yachts. Climb up to the Španjola Fortress for jaw-dropping views of the Pakleni Islands, then cool off with a dip in one of the rocky beach coves.
By day, rent a boat or hop a taxi to Palmizana or Jerolim Island. By night, start with cocktails at Hula Hula Bar (sunset is legendary), then dance under the stars at Carpe Diem Beach Club.
Not just a party spot: If you head inland, you’ll find sleepy stone villages, vineyards, and olive groves that feel worlds away from the harbor scene.
5. Krka National Park
Best for Waterfall Chasers and Swimmers
If you’ve ever dreamed of swimming beneath a waterfall, Krka National Park is your spot. Just an hour inland from Split, this park is famous for its series of cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and emerald green pools fed by the Krka River.
The showstopper here is Skradinski Buk, a massive multi-tiered waterfall that flows over travertine steps into swimmable basins below. And yes, you used to be able to swim here—sadly, that’s no longer allowed as of 2021 to protect the fragile ecosystem. But honestly, it’s still worth the visit. The wooden boardwalks winding through the park are stunning, and you’ll feel like you’re inside a nature documentary the whole time.
There are also monasteries, old water mills, and even a tiny island called Visovac, home to a Franciscan monastery that dates back to the 15th century.
Getting there: You can drive or take a bus from Split or Šibenik. There’s also a boat ride from Skradin that’s super scenic—highly recommend it.
6. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Best for Nature Lovers and Photographers
This is Croatia’s most famous national park, and once you visit, you’ll understand why. Plitvice Lakes is an absolute fantasyland—16 terraced lakes connected by a series of waterfalls, surrounded by deep forest and wooden walkways that hover just above the water.
The color of the lakes? Unreal. Shimmering shades of turquoise, green, and sapphire depending on the light. Even in the rain, it’s magical.
You can explore on foot via different trail loops (ranging from a few hours to a full-day trek), or hop on the park’s electric boats and trains. The Lower Lakes are more dramatic with taller waterfalls like Veliki Slap (Big Waterfall), while the Upper Lakes feel more peaceful and remote.
What to know: This is a year-round park. I went once in spring and again in fall—the autumn colors reflecting on the water were next-level. In winter, it becomes a snowy wonderland (though some paths close).
Pro tip: Start early to beat the crowds, especially in summer. The park opens around 7 am, and that first hour is pure serenity.
7. Zadar
Best for Sunset Chasers and Urban Cool
Zadar often gets overshadowed by Split and Dubrovnik, but it’s a hidden gem with a unique vibe—ancient Roman ruins and medieval churches meet modern art and buzzing street life, all in a compact, walkable city on the Dalmatian coast.
The city’s biggest claim to fame? Alfred Hitchcock once said Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world. And he wasn’t wrong. Head to the seafront promenade at golden hour, where the famous Sea Organ—a musical instrument played by the motion of the waves—fills the air with soothing, haunting sounds. Right next to it is the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light installation that glows underfoot after dark.
Inside the old town, you’ll find Roman-era ruins, the 5th-century Church of St. Donatus, and a great local market if you want to snack like a local.
Insider favorite: Grab gelato from Donat Gelateria and stroll the Riva at sunset.
8. Korčula
Best for Laid-back Island Life and Wine Lovers
Korčula (pronounced Kor-chu-la) is like a quieter, more authentic cousin to Hvar. This island in southern Dalmatia is often called “Little Dubrovnik” thanks to its fortified Old Town, but it’s far less touristy and more relaxed.
Legend has it that Marco Polo was born here, and while that’s debated, the charm of Korčula is not. The Old Town is a mini-maze of narrow streets that fan out like a fishbone—designed to block winter winds and catch summer breezes.
Outside of town, you’ve got pine forests, hidden beaches, and family-run wineries galore. This island is famous for its crisp white Grk and Pošip wines, which you can taste right at the source in villages like Lumbarda and Smokvica.
Local bite: Try pasticada with gnocchi or fresh-caught seafood in a konoba (tavern). I had a meal at Konoba Mate in Pupnat that I’m still dreaming about.
Getting there: Ferries run regularly from Split and Dubrovnik, with catamaran and car ferry options depending on your route.
9. Rovinj
Best for Romance and Art-Lovers
Rovinj is one of those places you instantly fall in love with. Tucked into the western coast of Istria, near the Italian border, it has a very Venetian soul—pastel-colored buildings, narrow cobbled lanes, and baroque bell towers rising above the rooftops.
This town is all about slow strolls and hidden corners. The Old Town is built on a small peninsula that juts into the sea, so no matter where you wander, you’ll eventually end up at the water’s edge. At the top of it all sits St. Euphemia’s Church, where you can climb the bell tower for a panoramic view of the rooftops and sparkling Adriatic.
The harbor is lined with cafés and boats bobbing in the water, while just a short bike ride away you’ll find Golden Cape Forest Park (Zlatni Rt)—perfect for swimming, cliff-jumping, or cycling through pine-scented paths.
Local tip: Rovinj has a strong artist scene. Don’t miss Grisia Street, which turns into an open-air art gallery every summer, with local painters selling directly from the steps and walls.
Food lovers: The Istrian region is known for truffles, homemade pasta, and seafood risotto. It’s like Croatian cuisine with an Italian accent—and it’s divine.
10. Pula
Best for Roman History and Archaeology Buffs
If you want to stand in the shadow of ancient Rome without the crowds of Italy, Pula is your place. Also located in Istria, this coastal city is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world—yes, better than some in Italy.
The Pula Arena, built in the 1st century, once held 20,000 spectators and is still used today for summer concerts, film festivals, and even gladiator reenactments. Walking through it feels surreal, especially when you realize you’re standing on the same stone slabs Roman soldiers once did.
Beyond the arena, Pula’s streets are sprinkled with Roman temples, gates, and mosaics. You’ll also find a laid-back local vibe, a working harbor, and rocky beaches just a short drive from town. It’s a great base if you want to explore more of Istria or take a ferry to the nearby Brijuni Islands, which are full of wildlife, ancient ruins, and quirky history (Tito once kept an elephant there, not joking).
Tip: Pula is easy to reach by ferry from Venice in summer, making it a great entry or exit point if you’re combining Italy and Croatia.
11. Mljet
Best for Peace and Nature Escapes
Let’s end on a calm, soulful note with Mljet—one of Croatia’s greenest and most tranquil islands. Located about an hour and a half by catamaran from Dubrovnik, it feels like a world away from the buzz of the mainland.
Most of Mljet is covered by dense pine forest, and nearly a third of the island is protected as Mljet National Park. Inside the park, you’ll find two saltwater lakes (Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero) that shimmer in every shade of blue and green, along with a tiny island in the middle of the big lake that houses a 12th-century Benedictine monastery. You can kayak out to it, swim, or take a little boat shuttle.
This is the kind of place where you slow down. Hike. Swim. Read. Eat fresh seafood by the water and watch the sky turn lavender at dusk.
For a stay, the villages of Pomena or Polace inside the park are perfect bases. Don’t expect nightlife here—just nature, stars, and the sound of cicadas.
Fun fact: Mljet is often called the island of Odysseus. According to legend, this is where he was held captive by the nymph Calypso for seven years.
Final Thoughts
Croatia is so much more than just Dubrovnik and a few beaches. It’s a mix of dramatic landscapes, ancient history, charming villages, and island escapes—each place with its own pace, personality, and pulse.
Whether you’re hiking through lush national parks, sipping wine in a seaside tavern, or exploring Roman ruins in flip-flops, you’ll feel Croatia’s magic everywhere. It’s a country that rewards both planners and wanderers.