Croatia Bucket List Destinations

Croatia is full of amazing destinations that are perfect for any travel bucket list. With stunning beaches, beautiful coastal towns, and gorgeous National Parks. There’s something from every kind of traveler in Croatia whether you like city breaks like a visit to Dubrovnik or Split, or want to relax on the beaches of Brac or Hvar.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I earn a commission at no extra cost to you for any purchases made through this post. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out my Privacy Policy for more information.

Best Places to Visit in Croatia

When you’re planning your trip to Croatia, it can be difficult to narrow down what to see in Croatia. Croatia’s location on the Mediterranean means that it’s really easy to add a coastal destination or beach to your vacation. There is easy access from the capital of Zagreb to the coast and Croatia is a fantastic destination to island hop in Europe. Further inland, you can find gorgeous National Parks and the scenery of the mountains that make up the Dinaric Alps.

Whether you have a long weekend to spend on a city break or a longer vacation to explore everything Croatia has to offer, Croatia is a great destination for a European vacation. It would be impossible to see everything in Croatia but it’s worth a try. Check out my Croatia itinerary to see how to fit in some of these wonderful destinations in Croatia.

Best Coastal Cities and Towns in Croatia

Trpanj

By Josefine and Dominik of Red White Adventures

This little gem is located just a few hours north of Dubrovnik. It’s a great place to visit both for families and for digital nomads. There isn’t much to do but it’s the perfect place to go and relax for a few days. There is a BEAUTIFUL promenade walk and the water in Trpanj might be the clearest water we saw in all of Croatia!

If you’re feeling adventurous you can try to climb the mountain next to the town. We tried to climb it to catch a glimpse of the amazing view over the water but it turns out to be a little more challenging than expected. It’s definitely doable but we realized that not many people do this, so the tracks aren’t that clear which makes it a little hard to find your way back down. Oh, and then there are the spiders. It’s definitely not a place to go if you suffer from arachnophobia. BUT if you’re up for a good walk and amazing views then this is a GREAT option for you.

In Trpanj they also sell local wine. There is a wine store called Ubrig Wine & Olive Oil Shop where you can go and try different local wines before buying them. The shop owner and her daughter are so nice! If you don’t decide to buy wine from here, you can go to the grocery store and get the wine called Vina Palihnic which is a Postup wine (local from the area) and enjoy it while watching the sunset. Trpanj truly has one of the most magical sunsets we saw in all of Croatia!

Cavtat

By Sinead of Map Made Memories

Coastal Cavtat is in the southern Konvale region of Croatia a thirty-minute drive or boat ride south of Dubrovnik. We loved Cavtat as soon as we saw it. The small town is friendly, pretty and quiet especially compared to its heavily visited neighbour! Attractive terracotta-roofed houses cluster around a charming harbour and promenade from where you can catch boats to neighbouring coastal villages, to nearby islands or to Dubrovnik. There are plenty of outdoor cafes and restaurants here to choose from. You can complete short scenic walks around Cavtats’ two peninsulas or climb up to the Racic Mausoleum for fantastic views of the town and coastline.

At the end of a hot day walking and sightseeing, cool down with a swim in the Adriatic. The water in Cavtat harbour is clean, warm and calm and at the end of the working day, will be filled with swimming locals.

Cavtat is a great base for exploring southern Croatia or further afield into Montenegro; the historic old town of Kotor is just two hours away from Cavtat. Our favourite thing to do in Cavtat was to grab a delicious ice cream from the House of Ice Cream or some homegrown fruit from the farmers market and eat it whilst watching a thrilling game of water polo in the harbour front pitch. 

Zadar

By Diana of The Elusive Family

Zadar is a lesser-known city in Croatia though it is located on the coast.  While many tourists flock to Split and Dubrovnik, Zadar is a hidden gem on the northern coast of Croatia that deserves a visit.  It has some unique things to see and do.

A very unique attraction that draws thousands of visitors every summer is the renowned Sea Organ.  Created in 2005, the Sea Organ is carved out on the seaside as steps with holes drilled into them.  Water enters the holes and echoes off the marble resulting in a beautiful sound year-round.  Close to the sea organ you can find the Monument to the Sun, a sprawling disc in the ground that lights up at night.

Zadar’s center has a collection of religious artifacts from the Byzantine located outdoors making for a fascinating walk through in the center of town.  In the summer, there are also booths next to the ruins that sell a variety of items to visitors.  The Church of St. Donatus is alongside the ruins and a prominent ornate church that extends across the space.

Zadar is also packed with great restaurants that serve fresh fish year-round.  Many popular restaurants are filled in the summer so be sure to make a reservation for restaurants you walk by that look especially appealing to you.

Dubrovnik

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Dubrovnik is known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, and this gorgeous city in southern Dalmatia definitely lives up to its name. Walking the walls of Dubrovnik is definitely bucket list material. The walls surround the historic old town of Dubrovnik and from above you can look down on all the red-roofed buildings and take in the polished streets and limestone buildings. The walls protect one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.

While Dubrovnik is firmly on the tourist and cruise ship trail, the charm of the city comes in the evenings when you can find yourself a quite place in the city. It’s well lit up at night so it’s easy to explore the charming side streets and buildings of Dubrovnik at dusk.

In addition to a gorgeous old town, Dubrovnik also has beaches nearby, including Banje Beach. Banje Beach is just a short walk from the town walls and is a great place to swim or relax on the sand. The harbour here is also a great place to stroll around and enjoy the scenery of the Adriatic.

Roman Ruins in Croatia

Pula Arena

By Emily of Wander-Lush

Croatian Istria is one of the most fascinating slices of the Adriatic coast. Located towards the southern tip of the peninsula and easily accessible as a day trip from Rovinj, Pula is worthy of a spot on your Croatia bucket list.

Like all strategic cities dotted along the coast, Pula was under Ostrogoth, Illyrian and Venetian rule at various points in its history. But it was the Romans who left the most impressive mark on Pula’s landscape. The iconic Pula Arena is counted among the six largest surviving Roman amphitheatres. It’s a rare example of an arena with all four side towers preserved – pretty good, considering construction started in 27 BC. Visitors can go inside and visit a small museum, or just walk around the exterior to admire the lofty stone architecture.

Other things to do in Pula include a second, smaller amphitheatre and more Roman ruins in the centre of town, including the Temple of Augustus and Arch of the Sergii.

I travelled to Istria in the off season and found the streets completely empty. This only added to the magical aura of the city, which feels like it’s lifted straight from the history books. Even in summer, Istria is a great place to escape the crowds of Dalmatia. My top tip for visiting Pula is to arrive at the amphitheatre around dusk, when the sun sets behind the arena and casts the triumphal arches as silhouettes.

Diocletian’s Palace, Split

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

The central attraction of Split is the palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian, who built the palace near the Roman town of Salona about 1,700 years ago after he became the first sitting emperor to voluntarily stand down. Diocletian spent the rest of his days living in his enormous palace and planting cabbages.

Today, the palace is an extraordinary ruin, unique in the former Roman Empire in that it is a living city that has never been abandoned since the residents of Salona moved in several centuries after Diocletian’s death. Within the walls of the palace today there are Roman columns, basements, marble debris, an old Pagan temple and the intact mausoleum of the visionary emperor himself.

But that’s only half the story. There are also Renaissance mini-palaces, churches and houses, and in the 21st century, it all comes together in a fabulously mismatched city-within-a-city. Today, 3,000 people live inside the palace walls, many in buildings with Roman foundations, and it’s still the beating heart of Split. 

Wandering through the palace is a great delight, and you never know what you might come across. For example, there’s a modern bank with an original Roman column standing in front of the tellers. All of this makes Diocletian’s palace one of the most fascinating Roman sights in the world.

If all this exploring makes you hungry, check out Marta’s Veggie Fusion in the heart of the palace. It’s one of a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants in Croatia. 

Best Island Experiences in Croatia

Supetar, Brač

By Erika from Erika’s Travelventures

Many of the most popular places to visit in Croatia are bustling, energetic locations filled with tourists. On your Croatia bucket list, I recommend including some time at one of Croatia’s quieter islands to enjoy the laid-back island lifestyle. Supetar, a town on the island of Brač, is a perfect place to relax at the beach, enjoy local meals, and get lost in the scenic alleyways.

Compared to some of the other island towns, there are no luxury resorts or large touristy clubs and lounges. From Split, the large transit hub and tourist hotspot, Supetar can be reached in about an hour by ferry. There is a small port and a parking lot where visitors can leave their cars after driving them off the ferry.

Supetar is small and can be explored in a couple of hours, but there are many nice restaurants where you can try a new meal each day. You can also hike uphill towards a larger supermarket to get a view over the town and the water. My favorite thing to do in Supetar was to buy some pastries at the local bakery, some fruits from the markets, and bring a beer down to Supetar beach to hang out all day. The chilled-out island vibes are strong in Supetar, and it should not be missed if you’re looking for a relaxing time in Croatia! 

Korcula

By Inma of A World to Travel

The visit to Korcula, in my case, was by pure chance. Previously, I had already road tripped my way around the country from Zagreb, in the north, to Dubrovnik; visiting most of its tourist gems. So when I was invited to take part in a destination marketing campaign on this island, I had no idea what I would find there. Had it been on my radar, I would have already visited it during my first Croatian adventure!
Luckily, not everything is on our radar and this world has enough things to keep surprising us on a daily basis. And that’s exactly what happened with Korcula.

Two hours from Dubrovnik ( by car and a ferry ride), this island can be explored thoroughly in a week. Should you have less time, reserve at least two or three days to enjoy it properly.
Keep in mind that there are many things to do in Korcula. For starters, do not miss the towns of Vela Luka, Blato, Lumbarda and Korcula Old Town. And while doing so, remember to try their local products (such as sweets, wine, and the famous olive oil).

Now, if you’re really looking to be impressed, put Proizd island on the list as well. Its turquoise waters, calm beaches and island vibes will make you fall in love with this islet too. Enjoy!

Hvar

By Hanna of Solar Powered Blonde

Hvar is definitely one of my favourite places in Croatia. It is a small island off the coast of Split, much more peaceful than the mainland but still just as beautiful and full of incredible beaches.

As you reach the port by ferry from Split, I would recommend staying along the coast to the right side of the port for less crowded beaches, while still being close to the main town with many restaurants and shops.

Hvar has beautiful rocky beaches and clear blue sea; it is perfect for kayaking or a boat trip. One place I would definitely recommend visiting on Hvar is Jelsa. This is a small town, a short bus journey away from Hvar town, with beautiful small alleyways. It is much less crowded than Hvar, as Hvar town is popular for day trips from Split, so can get busy at times. Jelsa also has some stunning beaches and great ice cream.

While you are on Hvar, try ‘Sljivovica’, this is a local plum brandy and is great to try. However, be warned that it is very strong! For the best viewpoint on Hvar island head to the Spanish fortress. From here you can see right over the bay and the marina, and it is also very beautiful as a sunset spot.

Croatian National Parks

Krka National Park

By Alex of Swedish Nomad

Krka National Park is one of the easiest day trips to make from the classic destinations such as Split, Zadar, and Dubrovnik. You can go by public transport or rent your own car, or even go on a guided tour. 

I suggest visiting early in the morning or later in the day when it’s less crowded. The best thing to do is of course to stay overnight nearby in Sibenik or Skradin. Then you can take the first boat to the park and visit the waterfalls and go for a morning swim in the refreshing water. 

There are several waterfalls in Krka, and you’re allowed to swim here, in contrary to Plitvice Lakes where you can’t go into the water. This is a great day trip for everyone, including families. 

Except admiring the beauty of Krka national park and seeing the waterfalls, I also suggest to go for a boat ride and visit the monastery. 

Plitvice Lakes National Park

By Brianna from Curious Travel Bug

Plitvice Lakes is my number one must-visit destination in Croatia. This natural wonder features dozens of waterfalls set among beautiful teal lakes and boardwalks. The forest here is also absolutely gorgeous, especially in fall when the trees are changing colour. This UNESCO site belongs not just on your Croatia bucket list, but on your bucket list for Europe or the world.

Walking around the boardwalks here you get to discover huge waterfalls as well as smaller waterfalls that run under the walkway. Everywhere you turn there’s another cascade. The 16 lakes that the waterfalls fall from look crystal clear and inviting but no swimming is allowed here.

The lower lakes with its impressive tall waterfalls and winding boardwalk are definitely the star of the park. They are also very close to the parking lot and get crowded quickly. For a bit of a quieter experience, head to the upper lakes. The upper lakes still have impressive scenery but because some of the trail here is in the forest, you have a bit more space for getting away from crowded boardwalks.

While you can visit Plitvice Lakes as a day trip from Split, Zadar, or Zagreb, I highly recommend staying overnight nearby. I spent a day and a half hiking in Plitvice and I could easily have spent longer. Staying overnight means you have a better chance of avoiding peak tour bus times.

Cultural Activities in Croatia

Trsteno Arboretum

By Kristin from Growing Global Citizens

We arrived at Trsteno by kayak.  While not my usual means of transportation, it made this secret spot even more special.  We went for a quick swim in the deep blue water before drying off next to a pile of fishing nets.  After a long climb up a cobblestone path, we arrived at the back entrance of Trsteno Arboretum.  

The arboretum started as a private garden for a noble family in the 15th century, but is now protected by the state.  Inside there are thousands of species of trees and flowers and–very important in Croatia–lots of shade. The Fountain of Neptune is definitely a great spot to sit and contemplate others who have roamed the garden in years past.

At the main entrance from the road, there is a memorial to those who lost their lives in the Yugoslav wars (aka the Croatian War of Independence) fighting around Dubrovnik 25 years ago.  Also at the entrance are two huge trees that are over 500 years old and make a great spot for a picnic. Besides the small cafe across the street there aren’t many places for food or drinks, so bringing your own food is a good idea.  

If Trsteno looks familiar it’s because it was used as a location for filming the King’s Landing gardens in Game of Thrones.  If you can get to it, this lovely arboretum and harbor will make you feel like a king for the day!

Lindo Folk Dance in Dubrovnik

By Alison of Dance Dispatches

Dubrovnik has such a picturesque old town that it famously features in Game of the Thrones. You can get a good sense of the area in just a few days by walking upon its towering defensive walls and admiring the landscapes from a kayak. But if you want to experience a unique aspect of Croatian culture, head to see the Lindo Folk Ensemble’s dance show. Their performances don’t begin until late in the evening, so attending won’t make you miss out on other activities. 

The Folklorni Ansambl Lindo has carefully preserved a range of Croatian dances, accompanied by an accomplished band of singers and musicians. Two narrators introduce the dances throughout the evening, and the performers wear beautiful traditional clothing from many Eastern European regions. Some performances are lively, while some music is more solemn and moving like church tones, but the hall has great acoustics and it all sounds heavenly.  

The performance takes place in Lazareti, which historically acted as a quarantine building for merchant traders. While the shows are ticketed, you select a seat upon arrival – so show up early to get a good one. (The show was completely packed even before high season.) If you sit further in back on the ground floor, you may notice audience members’ cameras get in your way, as they take photographs. But if you do cadge a better spot –have good etiquette when you take your own photos by waiting until the cast bows. 

Like this? Pin it for later!