Croatia Where To Travel

Where to travel in Croatia

Updated 10 November 2026

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Croatia is known for its Adriatic coastline, historic towns, and islands, but where you choose to spend your time can make a big difference to your experience. Dubrovnik and Split are popular for their history and easy access to the coast, while islands like Hvar and Vis offer very different versions of island life.

If you head north to Istria, you’ll discover a different blend of coastal towns, vineyards, and countryside. Zagreb, on the other hand, lets you see a side of Croatia that’s away from the busy coastal spots.

Here are six of Croatia’s most popular places to help you choose which ones to add to your itinerary.

Dubrovnik

Take a walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls for amazing views of the rooftops and the Adriatic Sea, and it’s easy to see why it’s so popular. The medieval Old Town is still surrounded by its 13th-century walls and is one of the best historic centers in Europe.

There's more to explore beyond the walls, too. You can take a boat to nearby Lokrum Island for swimming and walking trails, head up Mount Srđ for views over the city, or spend a day exploring the Elaphiti Islands. Dubrovnik also makes a good base for visiting Cavtat, a smaller coastal town south of the city.

If you want to enjoy the walls without the crowds, try to go early. Dubrovnik is a great choice if you want a compact historic spot with easy access to the coast, instead of a place where you need several days just to find your way around.

Staying in or near the Old Town puts most of the main sights within walking distance, but expect higher prices and plenty of stairs. Lapad is another option if you'd rather be closer to beaches and don't mind taking a bus into the historic centre. Dubrovnik can get especially crowded when cruise ships are in port, so it's worth considering the time of year if you want a quieter experience.

Split

In Split, everyday life takes place inside Diocletian’s Palace, a Roman palace from the 4th century that people still live and work in today.

Beyond the palace, you can wander along the waterfront Riva promenade, head up Marjan Hill for views over the city and coast, or spend some time at Bačvice Beach. Split also makes a good base for exploring nearby Trogir, another UNESCO-listed historic town, or heading south to Omiš for beaches and outdoor activities.

Split is also the main starting point for trips to the islands, with ferries to Hvar, Brač, Vis, and Korčula. It’s a handy base if you want to enjoy both the city and the islands without having to move to a new place every night.

For accommodation, Veli Varoš is worth considering if you'd prefer a quieter neighbourhood with some local character, while Bačvice is a good option if you want a beach nearby. The historic centre is convenient for restaurants, sightseeing, and catching ferries, but it can get busy and noisy in summer, particularly at night.

Hvar

Hvar is Croatia’s most famous island, known for its historic towns, clear water, great wine, and lively atmosphere. Climb up to the Venetian fortress for a beautiful view, then stroll through the marble streets, try the waterfront restaurants, and explore the nearby coves.

Beyond Hvar Town, the island has a much quieter side, with vineyards, traditional villages, and smaller coastal communities. The nearby Pakleni Islands also make it easy to spend time swimming and exploring the coast without travelling far.

Hvar Town is the busier option, while Stari Grad on the same island offers a quieter, more small-town experience. Jelsa is another alternative, particularly if you're looking for a relaxed coastal base with easy access to beaches. Hvar Town is the most convenient choice for boat excursions, restaurants, and nightlife, but it's also generally the most expensive place to stay.

Hvar attracts plenty of visitors in July and August, and the crowds, prices, and nightlife aren't for everyone. If you're hoping for a quieter island experience, consider staying outside Hvar Town or visiting outside the peak summer months.

Zagreb

Many travelers skip Zagreb, but it’s actually one of the best cities in Croatia to explore on foot. You’ll see Austro-Hungarian buildings, lively cafés, markets, and attractions like St. Mark’s Church and the Museum of Broken Relationships. It’s also a great place to begin or finish your trip.

Zagreb has a different feel from the coastal cities, with its café culture, green spaces, and neighbourhoods that are more about everyday city life than tourism. The historic Upper Town and the grander Lower Town are close enough to explore together, so you can experience quite a bit of the city without needing a packed itinerary.

Lower Town is a convenient place to stay, with lots of places to eat, sleep, and easy access to public transport. Zagreb is great if you like exploring cities at your own pace, but if you’re short on time and mainly want beaches and islands, it might not be your top choice.

Vis

Vis is one of the least-developed Dalmatian islands because it was a military base and closed to visitors until 1989. Today, it’s known for its quiet beaches, vineyards, and relaxed atmosphere.

There are some great places to swim on the island, like Stiniva Beach, a small cove with steep cliffs around it. Vis is also a good starting point for boat trips to the Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island. If you head inland, you’ll come across traditional villages, local wineries, and reminders of the island’s military past. There’s a lot to see, but the relaxed pace is what makes Vis special.

Both Vis Town and Komiža are great options for places to stay while you explore the island. Vis Town is where the ferries come in and has more restaurants and places to stay. Komiža is a smaller fishing town on the west coast, and it’s closer to the Blue Cave trips.

Vis is a good choice if you’re looking for a slower pace than Hvar or Brač. Because it’s more remote, it’s best to stay for a few nights instead of just passing through. Some beaches and smaller villages can be hard to reach without your own transport, so think about how much of the island you want to see.

Rovinj

Rovinj is one of Croatia’s most beautiful coastal towns, located on the western side of the Istrian peninsula. The town’s colourful buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and Venetian-style architecture create an Italian atmosphere. The Old Town sits on a small peninsula above the Adriatic, with a busy harbour, waterfront restaurants, and many spots to relax and take in the views.

Rovinj is a great option if you want to spend time by the sea and also explore inland Istria. The area is famous for its vineyards, olive oil, truffles, and medieval hilltop towns such as Motovun and Grožnjan. You can visit Pula to see its Roman amphitheatre or discover the beaches and wooded coastline near Rovinj.

The Old Town is a great place to stay if you want restaurants and cafés nearby, but its pedestrian streets and stairs can make it a bit tricky to arrive with luggage. If you stay just outside the historic centre, you’ll find more accommodation choices and easier access to the beaches.

Rovinj is ideal if you enjoy food, wine, historic towns, and a laid-back coastal vibe. It gets busy in summer, and places to stay can be pricey. If you want to see more of Istria’s countryside and small villages, having a car will give you much more freedom.

More Croatia Inspiration

There's plenty more to consider when deciding where to go in Croatia. These articles offer a broader look at the country's cities, islands, and regions, including some places you might want to add to your itinerary.

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