Best parts of Croatia to visit in 2024

Croatia is a very popular destination among both European and American tourists. Every year, millions of travelers visit the best places in Croatia, and during the summer, Croatian beaches are full of tourists.

Croatia is known for its clear blue seas, beautiful islands, bays, and other natural beauty spots. With its Mediterranean-style coastal cities along the Adriatic Sea, breathtaking rocky beaches, stunning mountains. Croatia has a lot to offer.

When to visit Croatia

It depends...

• For sightseeing the cities: Late spring or Early fall is best
• To enjoy the beaches: Summer is best, expect a lot of tourists and crowds

How much time do I need to explore Croatia

At least a couple weeks, the country is big and it has a lot to offer. So let's get started with our recommendtions for best parts of Croatia to visit.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Croatia’s most famous attraction it is a UNESCO World Heritage, known for its waterfalls. The national park connects several lakes and waterfalls, creating a seemingly endless network of waterfalls.

The Plitvice Lakes are famous for their unique colors, ranging from emerald green to turquoise. The area around the lakes is home to a particularly rich variety of animal and bird species. Among many other species, rare animals such as the European brown bear, wolf, eagle, owl and lynx can be found here. Within the park are well-managed with hiking trails, boats, and buses.

Split

Croatia’s second-largest city and one of its most popular tourist destinations. And all for the right reasons!

The city has a super rich historical heritage, symbolized by the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palace is a show of Roman architecture and contains landmarks such as the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the Temple of Jupiter.

Walking through the city center feels like going back in time, with its medieval streets, squares, and historic buildings. Venetian Tower, Narodni trg Square, and Riva Promenade are all must-see places in Split.

When you need to relax from crowds and go to nature, consider Marjan Forest Park, where you can enjoy pleasant walks and spend time taking pictures of the city and the sea.

Split’s beaches include the famous Bacvice Beach, which is great for sunbathing and swimming in the sea.

In the evening, you can experience the vibrant nightlife with cozy restaurants and bars offering delicious Dalmatian cuisine and seafood along the harbor.

Trogir

Trogir is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage-listed town situated on a small island, which is connected by bridges to both the Croatian mainland and the island of Ciovo.

Just a short drive from Split, Trogir’s old town awaits you with its preserved medieval architecture, quaint cobbled streets, and a scenic waterfront.

While exploring Trogir, make sure to visit St. Lawrence’s Cathedral, as well as the Church and Monastery of St. Dominic, located right on the waterfront – undeniably the town’s most photogenic spot.

Trogir’s charm extends beyond its historic center, as the town boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing. In addition, Trogir offers a vibrant culinary scene with numerous restaurants serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine and fresh seafood dishes.

Whether you’re strolling through the narrow streets of the old town, or enjoying panoramic views from the fortress walls, Trogir offers a memorable experience for visitors seeking the best of Croatia’s coastal beauty and cultural heritage.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, is also one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, it is along the Dalmatian coast and it will show you breathtaking views and a rich history. It is the most famous Croatian coast city, with visitors from all over the world.

While in Dubrovnik you can admire the city walls, which will offer panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the old town below. A walk along the walls provides a unique view of the city and its surrounding beauty so be sure to bring your best photography skills.

Take your time to walk through Stradun, the main street lined with elegant palaces, shops, cafes, and restaurants and get a hold of Dubrovnik’s social and cultural life.

Dubrovnik’s natural beauty is equally stunning: beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery surround the city. If you're not short on time we suggest you also visit the Lokrum Island which is nearby.

Tips: Take the cable car or drive up Mount Srd to get the best views, where you can enjoy stop to take pictures or use the restaurant up top and enjoy food with a view.

Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital and biggest city in Croatia, located at the southern end of the Medvednica Mountains, between the Dinaric Mountains and the Alps.

While Zagreb is different from it's Croatian coastal cousins, it will provide you a more authentic Croatian experience, being a mix of European and Balkan vibes where you will find a lot of amazing food. While in there don't forget to try:

• Zagrebački odrezak: A local twist on the classic schnitzel.
• Štrukli: Savory or sweet, this dough pocket is a crowd-pleaser.
• Čušpajz: A hearty stew perfect for a chilly day.
• Grah: A creamy bean stew, often served with sausages.
• Kremšnita: A decadent custard and puff pastry dessert.

Omis

Omis is one of the most picturesque small towns in Croatia, along the Dalmatian coast, close to Split. If you're already visiting Split you might as well go to Omis. In Omis, the historic center is what’s most worth a visit. Its main attraction is the Mirabela Fortress.

The Mirabela Fortress is a 13th-century stronghold with views of the Adriatic Sea, the town, and the Cetina River.

Despite its small size, Omis has a lot to offer. A beautiful old town, nice beaches, and opportunities to hiking, rock climb, or take a rafting. The town is located by the mouth of the Cetina River.

Pag Island

The Pag Island is one of the most famous and interesting Croatian islands. It’s located near Zadar and is a popular summer destination because of its natural attractions and great beaches.

While the summer months are ideal for swimming, the beaches are also excellent for seaside walks throughout the rest of the year. For the most relaxing experience, visit Jadra Beach or Rucica Beach.

For the foodies you can try some local Croatian restaurant, where you'll find the island’s specialty, paski sir (cheese).

Krka National Park

In Krka National Park, you will find beautiful waterfalls, hiking trails, chances to go boating, hiking, picnicking, and even swimming.

Here you should take some picture of the Skradinski Buk waterfall.

Spend your time along unique rock formations, waterfalls, lakes, islands, and diverse plant and animal life and explore the cultural heritage within the Franciscan monastery and church on the island of Visovac.

It is super close to Split, about an hours drive.

Hvar Island

Hvar Island is one of those super popular summer destinations, it has a very natural charm and appeal with its stunning beaches. You should also visit this Island if going to Split, which you can reach by ferry.

Hvar town offers historical attractions a fortress where you can find some of the island's most beautiful views. Also popular are St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the square in front of it.

Exploring Hvar’s cultural and culinary offerings is also highly recommended. Taste the local cuisine at a konoba, and ask for the island’s famous dish known as gregada and a locally produced wine.