21 Most Beautiful Places in Croatia to Visit

Planning a trip to Croatia with family? We’ve crafted a list of the most beautiful places in Croatia that showcase the best of Croatia to help you plan a perfect Croatia itinerary.

From hidden islands to stunning beaches to majestic natural attractions to charming coastal towns to lively cities – our list includes the very best places to visit in Croatia.

Read Later: How to Spend 10 Days in Europe – Awesome Europe Itinerary Ideas

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The Most Beautiful Places in Croatia: Cities, Towns, Villages, Islands, National Parks, & Beaches

The youngest member state of the European Union, a Balkan country cuddled by stunning national parks, phenomenal coastline, and dramatic Dinaric Alps – Croatia is super gorgeous and more! Plus, the country is truly a culture lover’s paradise. It has all the elements to be on the top of every traveler’s list.

After spending 14 days in Croatia, I can easily see why! Before I lose the point and go on and on about Croatia, let’s discover the very best places to visit in Croatia.

And yes, if you are planning to rent a car in Croatia (which you definitely should as it gives the freedom one needs while traveling), read our ultimate guide to renting a car in Europe.

We love Discover Cars when it comes to renting a car anywhere in the world.

Most Beautiful Cities in Croatia

1. Zagreb: One of the Most Underrated Capital Cities in Europe

Zagreb, an inland capital and the largest city of Croatia is more often than not the starting point in the Croatia itinerary.

More often than not, travelers overlook the Croatian capital of Zagreb and head to the dramatic Dalmatian coastline and breathtaking national parks. However, Zagreb, with its amazing architecture and the historical old town is amazingly beautiful.

You must spare enough time to explore Zagreb when in Croatia. You wouldn’t want to miss one of the best cities in Croatia, of course.

Shaped by two medieval towns – Gradec and Kaptol – Zagreb is like a beautiful and graceful old lady with a youthful heart.

She proudly wears her intricate past (ottoman wars, Habsburgs monarchy, Yugoslav wars) on her sleeve and flagrantly embraces the new.

St. Mark’s Square, Cathedral of Zagreb, Dolac Market, Tkalčićeva Street, Art Pavilion, Mirogoj City Cemetery, and Trg Bana Jelačića are some of the best things to do in Zagreb.

Trg Bana Jelačića in the Lower Town is the core of Zagreb. From here you can take the stairs or ride the world’s shortest funicular to Upper Town (Old Town).

Climb the Lotrščak Tower’s wooden deck or Napredak Skyscraper for the best views over Zagreb.

One of the most unusual museums I’ve ever been to is in Zagreb – the Museum of Broken Relationships dedicated to failed relationships. Intrigued? Add it to your Zagreb itinerary.

Zagreb needs at least two days to explore both Upper and Lower Town. If Upper Town is full of culture and history, Lower Town is a fascinating mix of art and nature.

How to Get to Zagreb: Fly into Zagreb International Airport or take a bus or drive from anywhere in Croatia or the nearest European cities like Ljubljana, Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava.

Recommended Hotel: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel

Not your style? Search for more hotels in Zagreb, Croatia

Read Our Guide to the Best Hotels in Zagreb

Recommended Tour: Zagreb 2.5-Hour Walking Tour with Funicular Ride

Looking for something else? Search for the Best Tours and Activities in Zagreb

PS: A Dalmatian Coast Road Trip is one of the most beautiful European road trips that take you through all the beautiful places in Croatia. Covering a distance of over 1281 km, this road trip starts and ends in Zagreb and lets you explore Plitvice Lakes, Šibenik, Primošten, Trogir, Split, Vis Island, Dubrovnik, and Zadar.

2. Rovinj: The Most Stunning of all Croatian Cities

Rovinj, a fairytale fishing town on the Istria Peninsula easily is one of the most beautiful towns in Croatia.

A Croatian town with a Venetian feel, Rovinj doesn’t feel as swarmed as Dubrovnik or Split even in the summer season. Now you know where to go for a peaceful Croatian vacation.

Things to do in Rovinj? Nothing. Believe you me, it’s a place where you can safely practice the art of doing nothing.

Spend your time strolling the winding cobbled streets of the Old Town or just sit at one of the restaurants near the harbor and admire the views. Drink in the colors of the evening sky as the sun goes down into the ocean.

If you insist on exploring Rovinj – the Church of St. Euphemia, Farmers’ Market, Rovinj Heritage Museum, Lone Bay Beach, and Lim Fjord are some of the best attractions in Rovinj. You can even visit one of the 19 islands near Rovinj.

How to Get to Rovinj: Take a bus or drive from anywhere in Croatia. You can also take a bus or drive from Piran in Slovenia and Trieste in Italy (1 hour 30 minutes). There’s also an option of taking a ferry from Venice (around 6 hours).

Recommended Hotel: Family Hotel Amarin

Not your style: Search other amazing places to stay in Rovinj

Recommended Tour: Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle Tour

Looking for something else? Search for more tours and activities in Rovinj

3. Dubrovnik

The illustrious historic walled city overlooking the calm deep blue Adriatic Sea, Dubrovnik is a treat for the senses.

I’d like to add – If visited in the shoulder season to my previous sentence because it feels mobbed in summer or peak season.

Start your day by walking a full stretch of the Dubrovnik City Walls, one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik. It takes a little over an hour to walk the entire circuit.

Later in the day, stroll along Stradun aka Placa, the limestone-paved pedestrian thoroughfare through Dubrovnik Old Town, and enjoy a cup of coffee with snacks at one of its many cafes and restaurants.

Culture and history connoisseurs might find the Cultural History Museum and Maritime Museum fascinating.

Hop on a ferry to the Elafiti islands from Gruž port for some real beach fun or take a cable car to Mount Srdj for incredible views.

Whatever you do, take time to taste the best ice cream at Gianni’s.

GOT fans can rejoice in touring dreamy Game of Thrones locations.

Follow our one day in Dubrovnik itinerary to plan a wonderful trip to Dubrovnik.

How to Get to Dubrovnik: Fly into Dubrovnik Airport or take a bus or drive from major cities and towns in Croatia.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel More

Not your style? Get the best deals on hotels in Dubrovnik

Recommended Tour: Dubrovnik Game of Thrones Tour with Outer Wall Ticket

Looking for something else? Book tours in Dubrovnik

4. Zadar

You have to have Zadar on your itinerary for Croatia if:

• you want to feel the pulse of Croatia without the crowds.
• you want to dive into the history and culture of Croatia as Zadar Old Town is the oldest inhabited town in Croatia.
• you want to witness one of the most exquisite sunsets in the world. I did!
• you want to dance on the floor that lights up by solar power as the sun goes down. Monument to the Sun is an extraordinary experience that can’t be missed when in Croatia.
• you want to listen to the music played by the sea waves. Yes! Sea Organ is another one-of-a-kind attraction in Zadar.
• you are a seafood fan.
• you are a beach-lover because Zadar has one of the best beaches in Croatia. That’s Sakarun aka Saharun!

I’m sure, you are convinced and already added Zadar to your Croatian adventure. I’m a good convincer 🙂 Now you would surely want to check out the best things to do in Zadar!

I loved every second of my stay in Zadar and you would too. It has an intriguing charm.

Oh! One more thing. Zadar is a perfect base for exploring Krka, Plitvice Lakes, and Paklenica National Parks.

How to Get to Zadar: Fly into Zadar International Airport or take a bus or drive from anywhere in Croatia or the nearest European countries.

Recommended Hotel: Bastion Heritage Hotel – Relais & Châteaux

Not your style? Search for more places to stay in Zadar

Recommended Tour: Zadar Sunset Sailing Experience

Looking for something else? Search for more tours and activities in Zadar

5. Split

Dalmatian Coast’s heart, Split is not only the gateway to gorgeous Croatian islands like Hvar, Vis, Biševo, Brač, Šolta, Čiovo, and Drvenik Veli but also a great base for those who want to explore the little Croatian towns of Solin, Trogir, Makarska, Baska Voda, and Sibenik.

Split itself is a delight for history and culture lovers. It takes pride in possessing one of the most beautifully preserved Roman ruins outside of Rome, Diocletian’s Palace.

In fact, the town of Split is largely built into and around the palace. You’ll be spending a larger chunk of your time in Split here.

Outside the city walls, Riva Promenade and Marjan Hill are the top attractions in Split, Croatia.

30 minutes out of Split, Klis Fortress in the village of Klis remains famous among GOT fans.

How to Get To Split: Fly into Split International Airport or take a bus or drive from anywhere in Croatia.

Recommended Hotel: Villa Split Heritage Hotel

Not your style? Search more hotels in Split

Recommended Tour: Private Walking Tour with Diocletian’s Palace Visit

Looking for something else? Search for more tours and activities in Split

6. Pula

Zoe of Zoe Goes Places

Pula – in Croatia’s northern region of Istria – is a great destination for those seeking a mix of history, culture, and relaxation. The city houses plenty of ancient ruins as well as beautiful beaches and easy trips to the nearby vineyards and wine shops.

Some of the top attractions to visit include the incredibly well-preserved Pula Arena and Temple of Augustus, which will transport you back 2000 years to the Roman Times.

Stopping at a locally run wine cellar is also a fun way to pass a few hours. Sample one of the tasting menus or pick up a few bottles to take home with you.

Another great option is to spend the day on one of the many Pula beaches located along the coast.

Take your pick from quiet coves only accessible on foot or beaches with bars, large inflatables, and water sports – and all in between.

How to Get To Pula: Pula is conveniently located just a short, 10-minute drive from the city’s airport. From Pula Airport, you can find low-cost airlines flying across Europe as well as national carriers offering flights within Croatia.

Recommended Accommodation: Superb Arena View or D&A Center Apartments

Not your style? Search for more accommodation options in Pula

Recommended Tours: A great tour that runs in Pula is to go kayaking around the sea caves, which aren’t accessible any other way. You can also snorkel or choose a sunset tour for an evening outing.

Looking for something else? Search for more tours and activities in Pula

7. Šibenik

Toti & Ale from Passport and Stamps Media

On the fantastic Adriatic Coast of Croatia, there is Šibenik (pronounced Shibenik). The small town is a fairytale Unesco World Heritage Site, just about one hour away from Split, the second largest city in the country.

The charming cobblestone streets are filled with historical landmarks, cute boutique shops, and fine restaurants. It’s unbelievable the number of hidden gems secluded in such a small place.

Among the best things to do in Sibenik, you should definitely see St. James’ Cathedral, a marvelous 15th-century old church built using just medieval techniques.

Walking down the narrow alleys between white brick houses and bars, you will get to the promenade. Spanning about 750 meters, the Šibenik promenade is unmissable and is pedestrian-only, featuring bars and restaurants on the sea.

On top of the hill overlooking the city and once upon a time, the invasion, there is St. Michael’s Fort. The fortified castle is the favorite place in Šibenik by tourists and locals.

In summer, the palace hosts exhibitions, galleries, and events that make the town lively. Talking about summer, you can’t miss spending time on the beach of Šibenik. The most famous stretch of sand is Banj Beach, within a short walk from the center.

You can plan to spend some time in Šibenik as part of a trip through Croatia or even use it as a base. Many day trips are available from the Unesco town, such as Krka National Park, Split, and the other Unesco town of Trogir just down the coast.

How to Get To Šibenik: You can easily reach Šibenik by bus or car or ferry from Zadar and Split in Croatia.

Recommended Accommodation: Apartments Rialto Gallery or Fenice Palace

Not your style? Search for more accommodation options in Šibenik

Recommended Tours: Private Sibenik Walking Historical Morning or Evening Tour

Looking for something else? Search for more tours and activities in Šibenik

Best National Parks in Croatia

8. Plitvice Lakes National Park

If there’s only one place you’ve to visit in Croatia, let it be Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Wilderness at its best!

The largest national park in Croatia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Plitvice Lakes is home to 16 surreal lakes connected by innumerable (about 90) waterfalls and woodland with amazing wildlife.

It not only is one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe but tops the list of the best national parks in the world. Rightly so!

The kaleidoscopic lakes of Plitvice top the list of the most beautiful lakes in Croatia. The lake network is divided into two groups: 12 Upper and 4 Lower Lakes.

Choose any one of 8 different well-marked hiking trails to explore the impressive natural beauty of the park. It usually takes about 8 hours or so to explore the entire park.

Plitvice can be easily done as a day trip from Zagreb, Split, or Zadar.

We strongly recommend you spend a night in or around the national park to truly enjoy one of the prettiest places in Croatia.

How to Get to Plitvice Lakes National Park: Take a bus or drive from anywhere in Croatia. Zagreb, Split, and Zadar are often chosen as a base to explore Plitvice Lakes.

Recommended Hotel: Natura Plitvice Lakes

Not your style: Search for more places to stay in and around Plitvice Lakes

Recommended Day Tour: Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park Tour from Zagreb

Looking for something else? Search for more Plitvice Lakes National Park day trips

9. Krka National Park 

Callie from Counting Our Footsteps Travel Blog

Krka National Park is the ideal place to visit in Croatia if you enjoy spending time surrounded by beautiful nature. Explore the hundreds of turquoise pools and stunning waterfalls, as you wind your way through the national park. 

The path around the park is a loop and if you go in an anticlockwise direction, you will end your walk at the most spectacular waterfalls.

The whole walkway takes around an hour to complete and is relatively easy, but can be slippery when it rains.

Make sure to allow yourself much more than an hour as you will be stopping lots to admire all the views around you. The main attraction is the magical colors of the water, no matter the weather.

At the end of the walk, there is also a restaurant and gift shop for you to have lunch and browse the local handicrafts. 

How to Get to Krka National Park: It’s best to explore Krka National Park from Split. Just an hour away, you can reach Krka by bus or car. There are two entrances to the park, one from Lozovac and another one from Skradin.

Recommended Hotel: Located right by the Lozovac entrance, Hotel Vrata Krke is a great place to stay near Krka.

Not your style: Search for more places to stay in and around Krka

Recommended Day Tour: Alternatively, if you don’t want to drive or travel by bus, you can join a day tour to Krka National Park from Split or Trogir.

Looking for something else? Search for more Krka Tours

Most Beautiful Islands in Croatia

10. Hvar: One of the Most Famous Islands in Croatia

Daria Bachmann of The Discovery Nut

Hvar is one of the most famous islands in Croatia, thanks to its history, gorgeous beaches with turquoise water, and vibrant nightlife.

While Hvar is considered a great place to party thanks to many bars and restaurants where you can try traditional Croatian dishes, the island offers plenty of history and culture aside from bar hopping. 

Hvar offers wonderful history and many landmarks, so you could spend a few days on the island visiting some of them as well as exploring the countryside where you can find gorgeous lavender fields.

Stari Grad (Old Town) is the highlight of Hvar, the oldest Old Town in Croatia where you can grab some food and climb to the top of the Spanish fortress that’s perched above the Old Town. 

Hvar is also known for its wine production, and you can enjoy the signature drink in many restaurants around Old Town Hvar.

To enjoy some of the best Hvar beaches, you can take a taxi or one of the local buses to explore the island’s coastline. Pokonji Dol is one of the best beaches in Hvar with many hidden spots, and you can get there by taxi from Old Town.

Old Town has many accommodations, but you can also find a place further away if you are looking for more privacy and a quiet atmosphere.

How to Get to Hvar: Take a Jadrolinia ferry from Split that runs several times a day and takes about 1 hour each way. Tickets are 110 Croatian kuna per person. Another option is to take a guided tour, however, most tourists choose to take a ferry to Hvar.

Recommended Accommodation: Palace Elisabeth or History Hvar Design Heritage Suites

Not your style: Search for more places to stay on Hvar Island

Recommended Day Tour: Blue Cave & Vis Island Speedboat Tour from Hvar

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and on Hvar Island

11. Vis: The Lesser Explored of all Croatian Islands

Just a little over five minutes into the balmy, enticing, and super-photogenic harbor, Vis Island evoked oohs and ahhs from me and other travelers out of the Jadrolinija ferry.

Driving the curvy road to our Airbnb in Komiža; looking out of the car window with tired eyes at the effortlessly and impossibly gorgeous views over Vis; I fell hard and fast for this tiny Croatian island.

With jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches, 17th-century architecture, Mamma-Mia shooting locations, and, great seafood restaurants, Vis deserves all your attention.

About 9 km from Komiža in Vis, mesmerizing Blue Cave (Modra špilja) on the island of Biševo is another reason (as if you need one) to visit Vis.

Vis and the Blue Cave, both remain the best-hidden gems in Croatia.

Spend at least 2 to 3 days on the island to get its vibe. Despite its sleepy feel, the island has enough sights for restless travelers.

How to Get to Vis: Board a Jadrolinija ferry or catamaran from Split (2 hours 20 minutes) or a catamaran from Hvar (55 minutes).

Recommended Hotel: Hotel San Giorgio

Not your style: Search for more stay options in Vis

Recommended Tour: Blue Cave Tour with Alternatura Day Tours

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options in Vis, Croatia

12. Brač

Sara Rodriguez from Mindful Travel by Sara

Brac Island is one of the most beautiful destinations in Croatia, located on the Adriatic Sea. This unique Croatian island is best known for its crystal clear waters, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, and offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

One of the things that makes Brac Island so special is its natural beauty.

The island is home to several breathtaking beaches, including the famous Zlatni Rat, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. This beach is unique because of its distinctive shape, which changes depending on the direction of the wind and tides. Plus, it’s one of the coolest free things to do in Croatia.

Other popular beaches on the island include Lovrecina Bay, Murvica Beach, and Supetar Beach, all of which offer a range of water activities such as swimming, diving, windsurfing, and more.

Aside from its beautiful beaches, Brac Island also has a rich cultural heritage, with several historical sites and monuments to explore.

The island is home to several ancient ruins, including the Roman aqueduct and the ruins of the Benedictine monastery. You can also explore the Blaca Monastery, a 16th-century monastery built into the cliffs of Brac Island.

How to Get to Brac: To get to Brac Island, you can take a ferry from Split, a city located on the mainland of Croatia. The journey takes around 50 minutes and is a great opportunity to take in the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Recommended Hotel: Belado Residence Bol offers a comfortable and relaxing stay with stunning views of the sea.

Not your style: Search for more stay options on Brac Island

Recommended Tour: Hvar, Brac, and Pakleni Islands Speedboat Tour. Starting in Split, this tour will take you to some of the most picturesque islands in the Adriatic Sea including stops at secluded coves and beaches for swimming and snorkeling, as well as opportunities to explore the charming towns and villages on the islands.

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options for Brac, Croatia

13. Korčula

Imee Magbag from Croatia Travel Guides

Korčula is a charming island in the Adriatic Sea on the Southern coast of Croatia. It is the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo. The island boasts beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a diverse cultural heritage. It is one of the most fascinating islands in Croatia.

Additionally, Korčula is known for producing high-quality white wines from the local grape variety, Pošip.

There are many things to do in Korčula while visiting this impressive island. You can explore the panoramic Old Town of Korčula. The town is surrounded by medieval walls, narrow streets, and alleys filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. 

One of the prominent places to visit in this beautiful town is the 15th-century gothic-Reinassance St Mark’s Cathedral. It is one of the most notable historical buildings in the old town.

How to Get to Korcula: Since there is no airport on the island, there are options for getting to Korčula; you can fly to Split or Dubrovnik, and from there, you can reach the island by car, ferry, catamaran, or bus.

Recommended Accommodation: Located in the heart of Korcula, Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel offers a unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm. One of the standout features of this hotel is its grand terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding.

Not your style: Search for more stay options on Korcula Island

Recommended Tour: If you want to explore more of Korcula, you can book a guided tour of the old town and discover all its historical sites.

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and on Korcula Island

14. Pag

Abbey from Trips on Abbey Road

One of the very best places to visit in Croatia is the small and beautiful Island of Pag. Visiting the Island of Pag is a great way to escape the hustle of mainland Croatia.

There is plenty to do on Pag Island. In the summer there are endless beaches to visit and music festivals on Zcre Beach. They are also known for their Pag cheese, lace, historic Roman ruins, and moon-like atmosphere.

The main part of Pag Island is the beautiful seaside town of Novalja. Here you can enjoy eating the world-famous Pag cheese, made from their special goats.

Tour the Olive Gardens of Lun, which is one of the oldest Olive Groves in the world! Eat yummy traditional food from Croatia at one of the many seaside restaurants and dance the night away at the CD Bar.

How to Get to Pag: Located about an hour’s drive south of Zadar, you can grab a ferry boat, or rent a car to reach Pag. The drive is very easy and scenic.

Recommended Accommodation: Hotel Loža Novalja offers big comfy rooms, a bar, a cafe, and a restaurant. Their rooftop is the best place to watch the sunset come down over the Novalja marina.

Not your style: Search for more stay options on Pag Island

Recommended Tour: If you wanted to take a guided tour, the Life of Mars trail is the best way to get out into nature and see the epic landscape of this island.

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and on Pag Island

15. Lokrum

Melissa Byron from A Solo Woman Traveling

Lokrum Island is a lesser-known little island in Croatia is known for its outstanding beauty, tranquillity, and serenity.

Located just 600 meters off the coast of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, it’s one of the best places to visit in Croatia. With its lush vegetation, rocky shores, and crystal clear waters, it’s like a little escape from the busy and sometimes overcrowded Dubrovnik.

Home to a number of attractions that make it an ideal destination for tourists, including the Benedictine monastery, a botanical garden, and numerous swimming spots. 

For those who want to explore the natural side of Lokrum Island, there are trails through its dense forests and rocky cliffs. The rocky beaches on the island are also ideal for sunbathing and enjoying the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Game of Thrones fans will especially enjoy Lokrum Island! The HBO series film sites were mostly in Northern Ireland and Croatia. Lokrum Island was used in season two as the city of Qarth.

The botanical gardens and former Benedictine monastery were also used in the series. If you join a Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik you will learn more about the film locations.

Lokrum Island is one of the best places to visit in Croatia for the day. So if you are looking to relax and get away from it all or have an exciting adventure, Lokrum Island has something for everyone.

How to Get to Lokrum: The Island is just a 20-minute boat ride away from the old town of Dubrovnik. You don’t need to worry about booking in advance, the boat runs every 30 minutes during summer (It’s only open from April to November for day trips) from the Old Port of Dubrovnik – Porporela.

16. Mljet

Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

One of the best places to visit in Croatia is the beautiful island of Mljet.  

Mljet is a national park best known for the two lakes and the surrounding beauty it’s made up of. 

The best way to see the lakes and beauty of the island is by bike. It’s best to ride around the larger of the two lakes as that path is (mostly all) paved and best suited for leisurely biking. It’s also possible to book a bike tour of the island if you prefer.

Within the larger lake is the Church and Benedictine Monastery. It’s one of the oldest church complexes in the Adriatic and is reachable by shuttle boat from Pristaniste, Mali Most, or from Soline. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a kayak and paddle to the church.

How to Get to Mljet: Mljet is best reached by ferry from Dubrovnik which takes about 1.5 hours. Take the ferry to Polace, and rent a bike from one of the bike rentals in the area if you’re choosing to explore on your own. It’s an uphill ride to get to the lakes from here, but pace yourself and take your time. It’s worth it!

Recommended Accommodation: With clean and comfortable rooms and amazing prices, Guest House Busurelo is a great place to stay on Mljet Island.

Not your style: Search for more stay options on Mljet Island

Recommended Tour: Boat Tour to Mljet National Park & 3 Islands

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and on Mljet

17. Ugljan

Jacoba from Op reis met Co

Ugljan is an island just off the coast of Zadar. One of the most beautiful hidden gems in Croatia, Ugljan is known as “The Olive Island”. You’ll find olive groves everywhere on the island. Some are even centuries old!

The island is a great destination for outdoor lovers. There are hiking trails all over the island, and they are very well-marked. Be careful though, some of the trails are really adventurous and you might need to do a bit of bouldering. Most of the trails are also suitable for mountain biking. 

Another fun thing to do on Ugljan is to enjoy the rocky beaches and crystal clear water. Make sure to bring some snorkeling equipment, as the water is very clear!

It’s also fun to explore the different villages, every village has its own vibe. Check out the monastery of Saint Jeronimo in the town of Ugljan and wander through the small streets of Kali, a colorful fishing village. 

Whether you visit Ugljan as a day trip from Zadar or stay for a week. You’ll have a great and very relaxing time.

How to Get to Ugljan: Only a 20-minute boat ride from Zadar, the island is really easy to reach. The ferry will take you to Preko, one of the nine picturesque villages on the island.

Recommended Accommodation: Studios Kranjcec

Not your style: Search for more stay options on Ugljan Island

Recommended Tour: Molat & Ugljan Boat Tour from Zadar

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and on Ugljan

Beautiful Towns in Croatia

18. Mali Losinj

Richard Meek from R J on Tour

Mali Losinj is a small town on the Croatian Island of Losinj, AKA The Island of Vitality. It’s a beautiful place in Croatia to visit, especially the coastline for hiking or swimming in the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic.

This charming town is a fantastic place to visit, especially if you enjoy coastal activities or relaxation.

Mali Losinj was the preferred holiday destination of the Austrian aristocracy when the Islands were ruled by the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Their physicians discovered the healing properties of the island’s climate for various ailments. There are many villas left these days in the Cikat Bay area are now mostly luxury hotels.

One of the unique aspects of the Island is the 230 medicinal plants that call it home. It also gets 200 days of sunshine per year, meaning it’s great for outdoor activities.

As well as the coast, the island has some fantastic inland hikes, including the Tematski Vidikovac Providenca that overlooks the town. They serve locally sourced food and drinks here to enhance the views.

A fantastic way to see more of the island is on one of many boat trips. Kovren Excursions run a fantastic excursion along the coast with food included.

How to Get to Mali Losinj: Board a passenger ferry from either Pula or Rijeka.

Recommended Accommodation: Guest House Palma is a cute place on the cobbled side streets of the town.

Not your style: Search for more stay options in Mali Losinj

Charming Villages in Croatia

19. Mali Zaton, Zaton

Anu from Country Hopping Couple

Zaton Mali is a hidden settlement located within a scenic and protected horseshoe-shaped bay.

Located only 8 km from the buzzing Dubrovnik, Zaton Mali offers what Dubrovnik doesn’t. During the 15th century, Zaton Bay was a popular vacation spot for the aristocratic and noble families who lived in Dubrovnik.

Today, there aren’t as many hotels and resorts around, however, there are some decent Airbnbs, villas, and guesthouses overlooking Zaton Bay.  

Zaton Mali is surrounded by a pristine bay, rich mountains, and thick pine forests, offering various kinds of adventures for all kinds of travelers.  

Zaton Bay, for instance, is a little jewel that offers shimmering waters, a pristine landscape, quiet and serene atmosphere.

You can swim in the waters, walk along the bay, hire a boat, or kayak in the calm waters. Alternatively, you can take a boat tour to Eliphati islands are not too far from Zaton. You can even walk around the picturesque Zaton Bay which is 3 km long.  

If you are looking for more adventure, you can also take an uphill trail to the nearby village of Podbrezje, on the way to the Mocilska Cave.

Considering how small and less crowded, there are so many interesting things to do in Zaton Mali that makes it quite a compelling place to visit.

How to Get to Zaton: Located 8 km north of Dubrovnik, Zaton is just about 20 minutes bus or car ride away.

Recommended Accommodation: Maar Superior

Not your style: Search for more stay options in Zaton

Recommended Tour: Half-Day Guided Zaton Bay Kayak, Swim, and Snorkel Tour in Dubrovnik

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and in Zaton

20. Lumbarda

Bronwyn from Bronwyn Townsend

White sand beaches and a checkerboard of micro vineyards are all part of the allure of Lumbarda, a charming fishing village on the eastern corner of Korcula.

Away from the hustle and bustle of some of Croatia’s top hotspots, Lumbarda is just 15 minutes from quaint Korcula Town, otherwise known as ‘Little Dubrovnik’, and overlooks the glittering Dalmatian coastline. 

Best known for its unique Grk wine which is indigenous to Korcula, Lumbarda is the perfect place to familiarise yourself with some of the best under-the-radar vino. Weave your way from vineyard to vineyard, whether on foot or on bike, moving between garden beds sunflowers, and olive groves. 

In the afternoons, cool off along one of the rare sandy shores of the region, soaking in the crystalline waters of the Adriatic. Lumbarda is also well connected to the nearby Skoji Archipelago, making it perfect for a day of island hopping.

How to Get to Lumbarda: Lumbarda is easy to reach from Korcula Town in just 15 minutes by bus, or via water taxi if you’d prefer to travel by sea.

Recommended Accommodation: For a truly relaxing stay, spend a night or two at the sensational ECO Aparthotel The Dreamers’s Club, where you can enjoy sea views from the terrace, beautiful gardens, and free bikes to explore the region.

Not your style: Search for more stay options in Lumbarda

Recommended Tour: Half-Day Bike Tour in Lumbarda with Wine Tasting

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options to and in Lumbarda

Beautiful Beaches in Croatia

21. Golden Horn Beach aka Zlatni Rat

Trisha Velarmino from P S I’m on My Way

Golden Horn Beach aka Golden Cape or Zlatni Rat is a symbol of the Island of Brač and Croatia. And why not? It’s extraordinarily beautiful!

Apart from the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, what makes Golden Horn Beach special is its unique shape.

It is a narrow, V-shaped pebble beach that extends nearly half a kilometer into the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Another interesting thing is that this shape constantly changes as it is affected by wind, current, and tides. This is a great destination for drone photography!

Golden Horn is a destination for windsurfing but non-wind surfers can also do walks and hikes to the surrounding lush pine forests of the Vidova Gora Mountains. It is a popular trail for bird watching and running.

The Vidova is the highest peak on the island of Brač. It is still a 35-min drive from the beach if you have time.

If you are staying on Brač Island, you don’t need to book any tour to the beach as it is easily accessible from Bol, so consider this as one of the free things to do in Croatia!

Golden Horn is a great destination for solo trips as it is easy to get to and Croatia is considered an extremely friendly country to all types of travelers.

How to Get to Golden Horn Beach: The beach is easily accessible from the nearby town of Bol on Brac Island, which has various accommodations, restaurants, and other tourist facilities. You can reach the beach on foot or a short ride on a tourist train or a taxi boat.

Recommended Accommodation: Zlatni Rat Beach Resort

Not your style: Search for more stay options near Golden Horn Beach

Recommended Tour: Private Tour to Island Brac, Bol, and Zlatni Rat in Speed Boat from Split or Trogir

Looking for something else? Search for more tour options for Golden Horn Beach

Recommended Reading:

• Renting a Car in Europe
• Schengen Visa for Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe
• The Epic 14 Days in Croatia Itinerary
• The Blue Cave in Croatia
• The Island of Vis in Croatia
• Coolest Things to do in Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Best Things to do in Split, Croatia
• The First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Split, Croatia
• Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
• Things to do in Zagreb, Croatia
• A First Timer’s Guide to Visiting Zagreb, Croatia
• Where to Stay in Zagreb, Croatia
• One Day in Zagreb Itinerary
• Best Things to do in Zadar

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