30 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

© Janos Gaspar | Dreamstime.com

Croatia – the land of a thousand islands. In the heart of Europe, the small country of Croatia offers everything for an unforgettable vacation. More than 100 years of tradition in tourism and the warm hospitality of the inhabitants will make you become friends.

Wonderful nature and crystal clear water delight the heart of every visitor. The Croatian sea is one of the most beautiful and cleanest waters in the whole Mediterranean. The lush greenery of the surrounding landscapes and historical sights will delight both explorers and nature lovers.

Romantic old towns such as Rovinj, Krk, Rab, Split or Dubrovnik, attractive destinations, hip bars as well as festivals and events on the Croatian Adriatic offer variety for everyone. Here is our list of the 30 best places to visit in Croatia.

30. Bisevo

Blue Grotto in Bisevo
© Paul Prescott | Dreamstime.com

The island of Bisevo is located west of the resort Komiza about 5 nautical miles from the island of Vis. The island of 5.8 km² is known especially for the “Blue Grotto” and its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for nautical tourists and guests of the island of Vis and the neighboring island of Hvar.

The island and its villages belong to the administration of Komiza on the island of Vis. On the island of Bisevo there are several very small settlements and villages. On the coast there are Porat, Mezuporat and Salbunara. In the interior of the island are the main village Polje and a little south of it Potok.

The few inhabitants of the island of Bisevo live mainly from fishing in the fish-rich waters around the island, viticulture and now also partly from tourism. Thus, in addition to a few restaurants, there is also simple private accommodation for rent on Bisevo. The water on the island of Bisevo comes from the cistern.

29. Baredine Cave

Baredine Cave
© Wibaimages | Dreamstime.com

Baredine Cave is located on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia and is one of the most popular destinations. Located very close to the sea, in the five halls of the cave you can not only admire fascinating stalactite forms, but also get to see the rare cave olms.

Courses on speleological climbing and a series of exhibitions complete the program.

The unique beauty of the cave has made it famous far beyond the borders of the country and every year numerous visitors flock to the area to admire the impressive stalactite formations.

Baredine Cave is within easy reach of most tourist centers in the area and offers a welcome change from a beach or bathing vacation.

28. Krka National Park

Krka National Park
© Zdeněk Matyáš | Dreamstime.com

In Krka National Park there are numerous well-marked walking and hiking trails that will take you to the most beautiful viewpoints and waterfalls. So lace up your hiking boots, pack enough drinking water and just let yourself be enchanted by the unique scenery while hiking! In addition to the rushing waterfalls covered with dense greenery, you can expect views of blooming landscapes with deep blue lakes, mysterious ruins and dense forests – a real natural paradise!

If you feel like taking a break after your hike, there are also a handful of restaurants in the national park where you can fortify yourself. Finally, another highlight awaits you on the small island of Visovac on the lake of the same name: The Franciscan monastery built in 1445 still stands here today and houses a small art collection. The 30-minute boat trips to the island usually start at Skradinski Buk, the most famous waterfall in the national park.

The most famous highlight of the Krka National Park is the already mentioned Skradinski Buk. At the longest waterfall in the park, the water flows down 17 steps into a shallow pool, where you can even take a bath.

27. Zagreb

Ban Jelačić Square in Zagreb
© Razvan Ionut Dragomirescu | Dreamstime.com

Vacationers in Croatia usually want to go to the clear turquoise waters of the Adriatic, relax, and stroll through small medieval harbor towns. Zagreb, Croatia’s capital in the northeastern interior, is left out by most. That’s a shame, because like all capitals, Zagreb is worth a visit. It scores as a lively metropolis with all kinds of cultural programs from historical to modern.

The city of 790,000 inhabitants lies at the foot of the Medvednica mountain range with mountains up to 1000 meters high. The Sava River flows through the city, a wide river that joins the Danube 400 kilometers away in Belgrade, dividing the city into Old and New Zagreb.

Zagreb has experienced turbulent times in its more than 900 years of history – the city was first mentioned in a document in 1094. It has been besieged, conquered, destroyed by earthquakes and always rebuilt.

Under Habsburg rule, the city was called Zagreb – and the Austrians turned the former provincial town into a representative city with Wilhelminian style buildings, curved Art Nouveau buildings and extensive green spaces in between, similar to what you find in Vienna, Prague or Budapest.

26. Korcula

Corcula, Kroatien
© Grey82 | Dreamstime.com

Korcula, the island with the most luxuriant flora in the Adriatic, is a unique ecological paradise in the Mediterranean. Home to hundreds of different fragrant Mediterranean plants and covered with vast forests, Korcula was called Korkyra Melaina in earlier times, which means black, i.e. densely forested Korcula. The most common tree is the evergreen oak. Everywhere on this picturesque island one comes across centuries-old cypresses, terraced vineyards and extensive olive groves. The town of Korcula, the center of the island, is distinguished by its exceptionally beautiful location on the Peljesac Channel, its numerous architectural and cultural monuments, as well as its rich tradition of seafaring, shipbuilding and stonemasonry. The Cathedral Square with the splendidly decorated late Romanesque Cathedral of St. Marco is the highest point of the town. From here, the alleys fan out progressively downward. One encounters Venetian palaces, churches and museums with beautiful works by Venetian-Croatian masters.

25. Pula

Pula
© Jasmina | Dreamstime.com

Pula is the largest and oldest city in Istria and with its eventful history today also the tourist and cultural center of the region. Due to the perfect interplay between culture from the Roman period, beautiful bathing bays and a modern tourist offer, it attracts visitors from all over the world every year!

Pula has become most famous for its ancient amphitheater, also known as the Arena of Pula. The second largest arena of the Roman Empire was built from 2 BC to 14 AD and is the sixth largest of its kind in the world. Furthermore, there are numerous other sights in Pula that invite you to discover.

During the summer months, especially in the arena and also in various places, a lot of events and exhibitions of art and culture, music concerts to fascinating film festivals take place. No matter what kind of vacation you want to spend here, the city of Pula offers the best conditions for a beautiful vacation on the Croatian Adriatic.

24. Zadar

ZADAR, CROATIA
© Jasmina | Dreamstime.com

The historical city of Zadar is the gateway to the Dalmatian region. The city of almost 80,000 inhabitants offers you the perfect combination of sightseeing and culture, beach and leisure.

The hub and absolute highlight is the lively Old Town complex, which is located on a peninsula, separated from the New Town. A walk through the old town is like a time travel through the different epochs of the exciting 3000-year history. Remains of Roman buildings, old city walls and gates from the Middle Ages, up to the modern sights at the northern tip of the peninsula, the square Greetings to the Sun and the sea organ are just a few stops on your “museum visit” in the open air.

Beautiful excellent beaches and enchanting bathing bays are waiting for seaside vacationers. The most popular beaches in the city are the beautiful pebble beaches Borik and Kolovare, which are as popular with vacationers with children as they are with the residents of Zadar. Around the beaches there is a varied offer of recreational facilities, restaurants and bars, so boredom and hunger are guaranteed not to arise during your beach day.

23. Rab Island

Town Rab on Croatian island
© Jan Sučko | Dreamstime.com

The island of Rab is located in the Kvarner Bay region of Croatia and with its approx. 2,500 hours of sunshine per year is one of the sunniest parts of Europe. Due to the good ferry connection you have a very good connection to the mainland and during the hot summer months there is a lot to do on the island of Rab.

The main town of the island of Rab is the town of the same name with its districts Mundanije, Palit, Barbat and Banjol. The old town of Rab has numerous sights and will take you back to a bygone era. Around the settlements there are beautiful beaches and dreamlike bathing bays.

But also the seaside resort Lopar in the northern part of the island has a very high reputation because of the long sandy beach San Marino, which is also known as paradise beach. Especially families with children are enthusiastic about Lopar, because the beach has a very shallow slope and so the children can play in the water in peace.

Other villages on the island of Rab are Supetarska Draga, which is a typical fishing village, and Kampor with its famous monastery Eufemia.

22. Rovinj

Panoramic view on old town Rovinj from harbor
© Daliu80 | Dreamstime.com

Picturesque Rovinj is located on the west coast of the Istria region between Porec and Pula. The idyllic small town is one of the most popular destinations in the vacation destination Croatia.

The vibrant waterfront and the romantic old town form the center of Rovinj. As you make your way across Marsala Tita Square into the labyrinth of narrow streets and houses of the old town, your journey back in time to the town’s Venetian era begins. Passing the sights, cafes and restaurants, you will reach the landmark of the city, the church of St. Eufemija, which towers over the old town.

Many beautiful beaches and bays along the Rovinj Riviera await seaside vacationers. Among the most popular are the beach Baluota, below Sv. Eufemija and the beautiful beaches on the “Golden Cape”, such as the beach Lone. You have the choice between wonderful rocky bays to flat sloping pebble beaches, which are especially popular with families with children. Numerous sports and leisure activities are guaranteed to keep you busy during your day at the beach.

In the evening hours, you can taste fine Istrian cuisine and international dishes in the restaurants, taverns and konobas along the lively waterfront and in the picturesque old town.

21. Split

The historical city of Split
© Emicristea | Dreamstime.com

The historical city of Split with its approximately 210,000 inhabitants is the second largest city in Croatia after the capital Zagreb. In the heart of Dalmatia, surrounded by the mountains Mosor, Kozjak and the mountain range Perun, a true open-air museum awaits you in the 1,700 year old city of Split, situated on a peninsula.

The Palace of Diocletian, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, and the vibrant Riva waterfront are the lively center of the city. Visitors to the city who are interested in culture can expect a journey back in time to antiquity. Magnificent mighty columns, squares and buildings are reminiscent of the Roman era of Split.

A large number of beautiful beaches and bays in and around Split await bathing holidaymakers. The most popular beach in the city is Bacvice. The Blue Flag flies over the sandy beach. Cafes and a beach club provide entertainment during your beach days at the crystal clear sea of Split. If you prefer it a little quieter, we recommend the beaches along the Marjan peninsula or Slatine beach on the island of Ciovo.

20. Plitvice National Park

Plitvice National Park
© Aleksei Stroganov | Dreamstime.com

Plitvice Lakes National Park is the best known and the oldest national park in Croatia and Southeast Europe. In 1979, Plitvice Lakes National Park was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the first natural monuments ever.

Almost one million visitors are attracted annually, mainly by the main attraction of the park, the 16 lakes connected with each other by overflows, waterfalls and cave systems on a length of about 7 km and with about 135 m height difference.

The almost untouched nature of the approx. 300,000ha large national park provides habitat for numerous protected plants, such as the rare orchid species lady’s slipper. In the dense forests of the park live bears, wolves and wild boars.

You can explore Plitvice Lakes National Park “on your own” or walk through the park along one of the numerous suggested sightseeing routes. The sightseeing routes usually consist of a combination of a panoramic train ride, electric boat ride across Lake Kozjak and hiking sections.

19. Hvar

Hvar
© Kuhar | Dreamstime.com

According to surveys, the island of Hvar is one of the ten most beautiful islands in the world. The recognized magazine Forbes names the sophisticated island in one breath with the Bahamas, Hawaii and the Maldives.

Most of the 13,000 inhabitants of Hvar live from viticulture, fishing and especially from tourism. This is reflected especially in the west of the island. Here you can find in the town of Hvar and in Jelsa excellent hotels, apartments and vacation homes.

The island of Hvar has a long tradition and experience in tourism, which dates back to 1868. Around 1903 the first hotel on the island was built, the Tsarina Elisabeth Spa Hotel. However, the big breakthrough in tourism came after the 2nd World War. Since then, the island has become more and more popular every year with guests from all over the world, including many members of the international jet set. This can be seen when walking along the promenade of the town of Hvar – the anchorages are usually occupied by large yachts.

The island of Hvar and the Pakleniki otoci group of islands in front of it offer their guests a secluded coastline, clean and beautiful beaches and a pleasant Mediterranean climate, which is especially appreciated by vacationers with their own boat.

For active and bathing vacationers the island offers numerous bays and innumerable footpaths, which over the island Hvar and also over the island Sv. Klement, which belongs to the Paklinski otoci. The sandy beach bay of Palmizana is particularly worthy of mention. It is the most popular destination for bathers.

18. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia
© Sorin Colac | Dreamstime.com

Deep in the south of Croatia, the most beautiful city of the vacation destination Dubrovnik or the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, as the romantic city is often called, awaits you. Surrounded by beautiful Mediterranean natural landscapes, offshore islands, one of the most charming old town complexes in Europe awaits you.

Dubrovnik has developed from the trading port of the Venetians in Dalmatia to one of the top destinations in Croatia.

Beautiful beaches and bays await bathers in Dubrovnik and on the offshore islands. Shallow pebble beaches, such as the beach Banje or the beaches on the peninsula Lapad are especially popular with families with children. From the port of Gruz you can reach the beautiful sandy beaches on the island of Lopud, which are only about 40 minutes away.

In the evening hours you are spoiled for choice, because Dubrovink has countless restaurants, konobas and taverns where you can taste the specialties of southern Dalmatia. Freshly caught fish, seafood and traditional meat dishes are best enjoyed with the excellent wines from the Peljesac peninsula.

17. Telascica

Telascica
© Ventura69 | Dreamstime.com

Between the southern shore of Telascica and the open sea stretches a forested elevation that ends with a 50-100 m high cliff. In this area there is a small bathing lake where salt and fresh water mix – the salt lake “Mir”, which means peace and tranquility. It is 0.23 km² in size and about 10m deep.

Telascica is one of the largest and most beautiful bays on the Croatian coast. From its western shore a path leads to the village of Sali on the east coast of the island. The bay is a good anchorage even for large yachts. The scenic beauty of Telascica Bay, which is visited by many guests in organized excursions, is best described by the following phrase: “When God created the world, he was especially generous here.”

In the gulf there are 25 smaller bays, five islets and as a special natural attraction the salt lake Mir. The lake water, which is said to have healing powers, has a higher salt content and is also warmer than the sea in summer. Therefore, many like to come here for swimming. Very impressive are the steep rocky cliffs that rise up to 166 m in height and protect the bay from the sea side.

16. Mljet Island

The island of Mljet
© Jasmina | Dreamstime.com

The island of Mljet and the national park of the same name are located in the south of Dalmatia, not far from the famous city of Dubrovnik. Mljet is an elongated island with an average width of 3 km and a length of 37 km.

The National Park Mljet is located in the northwestern part of the island and covers an area of 5,375 hectares on land and in the sea. The area was declared a national park on November 11, 1960 and represents one of the first institutionalized attempts to protect the original ecosystem of the Adriatic Sea.

The best way to reach the island and the national park is by ferry from Dubrovnik or by charter boat from Korcula, Hvar or Split. In Pomena on the island of Mljet is the pier to disembark.

For active vacationers, the national park offers many opportunities, such as diving, hiking or swimming. The viewpoint Montokuc as well as other peaks offer a magnificent view over the entire national park as well as the Peljesac Channel and the open sea of the southern Adriatic.

15. Motovun

Motovun, an old town in Croatia, Istria
© Lianem | Dreamstime.com

The romantic small town of Motovun is situated on a 280m high hill above the Mirna valley, surrounded by the green hills of the Istrian region. The municipality of Motovun also includes the settlements of Brkac, Kaldir and Sveti Bartol.

A narrow street, Gradisol, paved with old stone slabs, leads you past the church of St. Virgin Mary, the specialty stores (olive oil, truffles, wine), through the old town gates to the lively old town center of Motovun. The large main square Trg. Andrea Antico is surrounded by old buildings and palaces, the church of St. Stjepan and its freestanding bell tower.

Motovun is very popular especially among active tourists and holidaymakers who are looking for peace and quiet. Numerous beautiful hiking and biking trails lead through the Mirna valley through the beautiful hilly landscape of Istria.

Motovun is one of the best destinations in the north of Croatia if you are looking for rest and relaxation or if you want to spend your vacation actively.

14. Rijeka

Rijeka
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

The metropolis of Rijeka, with 144,000 inhabitants, is located in the north of the Kvarner Bay region, between the two popular rivieras of Opatija and Crikvenica. Rijeka is not only an important commercial center but also one of the most important transport hubs of the vacation destination Croatia.

Thanks to its ideal geographical position, this city has become one of the largest port cities in this part of Europe since the 19th century. Rijeka was also one of the financial centers in the former Yugoslavia.

However, due to the construction of the new bypass freeway above Rijeka, the traffic in the city has been greatly reduced, which has a positive effect on the air conditions and makes the city an interesting vacation destination again.

The well-developed ferry network connects Rijeka with the rest of the coastal towns and islands along the Adriatic coast.

Many magnificent facades adorn Rijeka and in the beautiful, small old town, culture lovers will find a number of interesting museums, galleries and old buildings that point to a historical past.

In the pedestrian zone numerous stores invite you to stroll and on the waterfront there are good restaurants and cafes where you can enjoy delicious local food.

13. Varazdin

The charming city of Varazdin
© Tomislav Pinter | Dreamstime.com

The charming city of Varazdin, along with the capital Zagreb, is one of the cultural and historical highlights in the interior of Croatia and should definitely be visited.

The baroque old town in the center, is still very well preserved and hides many historical treasures and buildings ranging from churches, museums, galleries and the beautiful castle.

In addition to the historical charm of the old town, Varazdin also attracts many art lovers. Throughout the year there are numerous events, which culminate in the summer with the Spancir festival with artists from all over the world.

In Varazdin, great importance is attached to the care of the city and its grounds as recreational areas, which is why the city was awarded the “Green Flower” award for the most well-kept city in continental Croatia.

12. Brela

Idyllic beach Punta Rata in Brela
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

The romantic resort of Brela is located south of Split in the Dalmatian region on the Makarska Riviera. Directly behind the small resort, the Biokovo Mountains rise majestically to an altitude of over 1,700 meters.

In Brela and in the small neighboring villages, dreamlike beaches and romantic bays await bathing holidaymakers. The highlight is the Punta Rata beach, which was once voted 6th among the 10 most beautiful beaches in the world in a survey by the US magazine Forbes. Exciting sports facilities for active vacationers and entertaining animation programs for children are guaranteed not to leave you bored on the beaches.

You can enjoy the excellent Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurants, taverns and konobas that have settled around the small harbor. Afterwards, the fabulous promenade invites you to take a romantic walk to the landmark of the resort, the rock Kamen Brela, which is illuminated at night.

In the beach bars and cafes of the resort you can end your vacation evenings with cocktails and live music.

11. Vis Islands

Vis Islands
© Dreamer4787 | Dreamstime.com

The hilly island of Vis, located about 60 km from the Dalmatian mainland, is the furthest island in the Dalmatian region from the mainland. The 90km² island is known for its beautiful beaches, bays and for olive and wine growing.

Since the 4th century B.C. until the disintegration of the former socialist republic of Yugoslavia in 1992, various ruling houses of Europe controlled the island of Vis, which was also often referred to as the “Gibraltar of the Adriatic”. The strategic position of the island was already appreciated by the Greeks and Romans. At the time of Yugoslavia, the island of Vis was considered the so-called “forbidden island”, because foreigners were not allowed to enter. Numerous former fortifications and military bases still bear witness to the occupying forces of bygone days.

After the disintegration of Yugoslavia and since the formation of the Republic of Croatia, the island is also accessible to foreign visitors and attracts almost magically navigators, divers, bathers and active vacationers. Wonderful beaches and bays, like the bay Stiniva, interesting diving spots, crystal clear sea, surrounding small islands with natural spectacles, like the “Blue Grotto” on Bisevo or the “Green Grotto” on Ravnik are only some highlights the island has to offer.

The two major resorts, Komiza in the west and the town of Vis in the northeast of the island, are the most popular destinations on the island. The island of Vis has managed in the last decades to offer a varied and excellent offer for guests from all over the world without losing its original charm.

10. Zlatni Rat Beach

Zlatni Rat Beach
© Biletskiy | Dreamstime.com

West of Bol on the island of Brac, the beautiful pebble beach Zlatni Rat juts about 500m into the sea and is affectionately called the “golden horn” of Bol because of its appearance. Since the pebble beach runs shallowly into the sea, it looks gigantic from above and is also very popular with families and children.

Fascinatingly, the slope and shape of the top of the horn changes depending on the sea current and swell, making the beach even more breathtaking than it already is.

A little further behind the beach is the Vidova Goras mountain, forested with lush pine trees, from which you can see the most beautiful view of the beach. The pine forest stretches all the way to the town of Bol, providing the much desired shade not only on the beach but also along the promenade that leads from the town center to the beach horn.

9. Volosko

Volosko
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

Volosko is a small town in the Kvarner Bay, which is nestled between the famous cities of Rijeka and Opatija. The former fishing village has now developed into a popular vacation destination, but still exudes the charm of a dreamy, quiet village.

The highlight of the village is certainly the 12 km long beach promenade Lungo Mare, which connects the resorts Opatija and Lovran with Volosko. Take romantic walks with your loved ones along the promenade in the evening and enjoy the magnificent view and the subsequent sunset!

In Volosko you will also find beautiful beaches and bays that invite you to relax and unwind. For boat lovers there are many possibilities due to the well-developed marina.

On the harbor promenade of the village there are some typical traditional restaurants, which offer national as well as international dishes. In the unique ambience and romantic atmosphere, the evenings can be ended in the best way.

From Voloscanska Riva you have a special view of the whole Adriatic Sea towards the south. The place Volosko is possibly therefore considered an inexhaustible source of inspiration for artists.

8. Opatija

Opatija
© Jurij Pivka | Dreamstime.com

The tourist town of Opatija is located in the north of the Kvarner Bay, below the mountain Ucka in close proximity to the metropolis of Rijeka. Due to the islands in front of it and the mountain range Ucka behind it, Opatija and the riviera belonging to it are well protected from the strong local winds and offer a mild and pleasant climate all year round.

Opatija has many pet names and is often called, for example, the “pearl of tourism” or “the old lady”. The latter is a compliment which Opatija has certainly earned due to its over 160-year tradition in tourism.

The beginnings of tourism started already in the 19th century when Opatija developed into a winter resort for the upper class society. During this period, many local residences and villas were built, which have been renovated and converted into hotels and guesthouses of high standard during the last decades.

Opatija is still called “the Nice of Croatia” because of its excellent tourist offer and numerous sights.

7. Cavtat

Cavtat, Croatia
© Jasmina | Dreamstime.com

The small town of Cavtat, with about 1,500 inhabitants, is located in the very south of the Dalmatian region, only about 20 km south of the famous city of Dubrovnik.

The romantic resort of Cavtat offers a pleasant climate and lush vegetation, in addition to many archaeological finds, beautiful palaces, residences, monuments from Roman times and summer houses. Moreover, the underwater world of Cavtat is considered to be the largest amphora site in the Adriatic and the Mediterranean.

The old town of Cavtat stretches around the picturesque boat and marina harbor, which is enclosed by two headlands, protected from the wind, in the shape of a horseshoe. To the southwest by the peninsula Sustjepan and to the east by the peninsula Rat. Along the beautiful waterfront promenade, numerous restaurants, cafes and bars have settled, spoiling their guests with a magnificent view of the sea and a rich offer of culinary delicacies.

6. Sibenik

Sibenik
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

The medieval, proud city of King Krešimir “Sibenik” is next to Zadar one of the largest metropolises in the north of the Dalmatian region. It offers for culturally interested guests numerous museums, galleries and historical sights such as the St. Anna fortress, which is enthroned above Sibenik and is also called Mihovil fortress by the locals.

The center extends around the well-protected harbor. Sibenik is roughly divided into the western part with its narrow, narrow streets and the newer quarter in the north and southeast of the city. This is also where most of Sibenik’s vacation homes are located.

In the old town center of Sibenik you can find numerous churches, monasteries and palaces – the enchanting cultural heritage of a thousand years of significant history. One of these historical buildings is the Cathedral of St. James, the 100 years of construction is proof of how important faith was and is for the people of Sibenik.

Many important artists, scientists and writers were present in Sibenik and made the city a lively cultural center. A glimpse of this period can be seen in the Sibenik Monastery, where over 150 incunables and important pieces of writing are exhibited.

Special is also the unique location of Sibenik, along the river Krka. Sibenik is connected with the sea only by a narrow strait. Visually, one gets the impression that there is only one large lake in front of Sibenik. However, if you go by boat through the narrow mouth into the open sea, you will discover a variety of beautiful islands such as the island of Zlarin, Obonjan, Zirje, Koprije and many others.

5. Nin

The romantic small town of Nin
© Mareticd | Dreamstime.com

The romantic small town of Nin is located in the north of the Dalmatia region about 17 km from Zadar. While most of the vacation settlements are on the mainland, the historical old town is located on a small island in front of it. The town developed on a flat promontory formed by sedimentation. In the 14th century, the excavation of a canal began and thus NIn became its own small island.

In the surroundings you can find various sights such as churches, Illyrian tombs, museums and remains of a Roman temple. But Nin is not only a historical town. In the surroundings you can find beautiful sandy beaches, far from traffic, ideal for recreation. Today, the town radiates a peaceful tranquility through its flowering gardens and shady trees, as it is largely spared from mass tourism.

A popular excursion destination near Nin is the small island of Zecevo, 13 km away, which can be forded at low tide and on which there is a small church in honor of Our Lady of Zecevo.

4. Trogir

Trogir
© Piotr Schonborn | Dreamstime.com

The town of Trogir is a pearl on the coast of Dalmatia, only 27 km from the metropolis of Split. The city and the small resorts on the Riviera are a popular vacation and excursion destination.

Trogir owes its special charm and flair to the Romans. They separated the old city center from the mainland by a canal. Today, when you cross the bridge to the old town, your journey through the exciting history of the 2000 year old town begins. Narrow romantic streets lead you to the historic buildings and squares surrounded by a beautiful waterfront. UNESCO declared the entire old town complex a World Heritage Site in 1997.

The attractive city beaches of Medena and Pantan, the beautiful beaches and bays of the offshore island of Ciovo and neighboring towns, combined with exciting sports and recreational opportunities are the best conditions for unforgettable days by the sea.

In the evening, the restaurants and konobas in the historical ambience of the old town and on the lively waterfront will tempt you with traditional Mediterranean cuisine and excellent wines. Whether you want to end the evening quietly or explore the nightlife of the city, the possibilities are as varied and unique as the city itself.

3. Kornati National Park

Kornati National Park
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

The Kornati National Park archipelago includes a total of 89 islands and reefs. The archipelago is geographically located between the island of Dugi otok and the island of Zirje in the Dalmatian region of Croatia. Since 1980, the area was declared a national park and since then attracts many enthusiastic visitors every year.

The breathtaking island world of Kornati is popular among nature lovers as well as active tourists. Divers, navigators, hikers or boaters get their money’s worth here in equal measure. The largest islands of the national park are the main island Kornat as well as the other islands Kurba Vela, Lavsa, Levrnaka and Piskera.

In summer, numerous sailboats and yachts sail between the islands to explore the beautiful area of Kornati. The imaginatively shaped islands and reefs are called “crowns” and make a great picture. Boaters can find moorings, for example, in the marina of Piskera or at the piers or jetties of the konobas and restaurants.

Visitors can reach Kornati by boat from the island of Murter or from the mainland. On the spot you can either rent a boat or book a guided tour.

2. Omis

Omis
© Freesurf69 | Dreamstime.com

Directly at the mouth of the Cetina River lies the beautiful small town of Omis, between the metropolis of Split and the well-known resort of Makarska in the heart of the Dalmatia region.

The popular vacation resort Omis is especially known for its numerous active sports and is also the center of the 20 km long Omis Riviera. The unique atmosphere of the town and the beautiful local beach attract more and more tourists every year.

Due to its formative history and location directly at the mouth of the Cetina River, Omis is in itself a unique sight and will also captivate you.

The famous Omis Riviera has some of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia and invites you to relax and spend an active vacation with numerous water sports. On the promenades there are also countless restaurants, konobas and cafes, which will spoil you with the Croatian cuisine. In addition to the restaurants, there are of course several boutiques and souvenir stores that will provide you with souvenirs.

Meanwhile the Omis – Riviera belongs to the most popular vacation regions of Dalmatia and every year more and more new sport and leisure facilities are created.

1. Krk

Krk
© Xbrchx | Dreamstime.com

Krk is the cultural center of the eponymous island of Krk in the Kvarner Bay. The town with its almost unpronounceable name has developed over time into one of the most popular vacation destinations in northern Croatia.

The harbor and the Riva promenade separate modern Krk from the historical part of the town. From the lively friendly waterfront Riva, you can enter the 2000 year old walled urban city center through the medieval city gate. The square Vela placa right at the beginning is the heart where life pulsates. Stores, boutiques, cafes and restaurants invite you to stroll and browse.

Kamplin square, where the old Frankopan fortress and the town’s landmark, the cathedral bell tower, are located, is used during the summer months as an open-air stage in front of a historical backdrop for classical concerts and jazz festivals.

The Drazica beach, which slopes gently into the crystal clear sea, is especially popular with families with children. But also the other beautiful beaches and bays of Krk are in no way inferior to Drazica and guarantee bathing fun and unforgettable vacation days for the whole family.

Click Video to see the 30 Best Places in Croatia