Best Places to Visit in Croatia
GettyKrka National Park
This national park encompasses nearly 27,000 acres along the Krka River in central Dalmatia, easily reached from the town of Split. It is known for its blue-green pools, winding walkways, and gushing waterfalls—the waterfalls are so popular, in fact, that the park has started to limit the number of visitors.
GettyZagreb
Zagreb has everything you could want in a capital city: pedestrian-friendly streets, museums, and galleries, outdoor cafes, and an ancient fortified center that rivals Budapest and Vienna. Don't miss the open-air Dolac Market, colorful St Mark's Church, or the Museum of Broken Relationships (yes, it's just as quirky as it sounds).
GettyMljet National Park
Mljet National Park covers the entire western section of Mljet Island (a nice day trip from Dubrovnik). Highlights include two gorgeous saltwater lakes, pine tree forests, and the small, picturesque villages of Pomena and Polače.
GettyHvar
One of the country’s most popular islands for sunbathers and oenophiles, Hvar is renowned for its sunny beaches, lavender fields, and lush vineyards. It also features a beautiful city center, complete with Gothic palaces and marble stone streets. Bonus: It's also Croatia's sunniest spot.
GettyPlitvice Lakes National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage site is easily one of the most popular attractions in Croatia—with its turquoise lakes, limestone canyons, and hundreds of waterfalls, it's little wonder why. Just be sure to stay on the paths.
GettyPula
The star of this seafront city is its wealth of Roman architecture, namely the Pula Arena. Constructed between 27 BC and 68 AD, the amphitheater is remarkably intact and is still used as a venue for concerts and festivals. Even non-history buffs will enjoy the city's seaside cafes, Lighting Giants art installation, and Aquarium Pula.
GettyDubrovnik
Whether you know it as King's Landing or simply one of the world's most beautiful cities, there's no denying the appeal of Dubrovnik. Don't miss the city’s white limestone streets, the lovely old town of Stari Grad, or scenic Mount Srd (take the cable car to the top for some epic views). Looking for some exercise? We suggest getting on top of the surrounding walls to take in the city—they stretch completely around the Old Town, and you can walk their entire 1.2-mile length.
GettyZadar
Located on the northern Dalmatian Coast, Zadar is a quirky addition to any Croatia itinerary. Aside from its historic old town and string of beaches, the city boasts two particularly unique attractions: Sea Organ, a structure that plays music using the movement of the waves; and The Greeting to the Sun, an installation that collects the sun’s energy during the day, then plays a trippy light show from sunrise to sunset.
GettyRovinj
Come to this seaside fishing town for the food—specifically for Monte, the first restaurant in Croatia to nab a Michelin star. Stay for the offshore islands, cobblestoned streets, and Mediterranean charm.
GettyZlatni Rat, Brač
Of all the beaches in Croatia, Zlatni Rat stands out for its unusual shape (which changes depending on the current) and material (it's actually made up of smooth, tiny pebbles). The so-called "Golden Cape" is a popular spot for windsurfing, jet-skiing, and stand-up paddle boarding.
GettySplit
Croatia's second-largest city is a fascinating mix of ancient and modern. Walk through the sprawling 4th-century Diocletian's Palace (pictured), where trendy clubs and boutiques alternate with ancient churches; or stroll along the Riva seafront promenade, which is dotted with cafes and souvenir shops.
GettyKorčula
The island of Korčula is known for its dense forests, olive groves, local white wine, and stunning old town with fortified walls and Gothic cathedrals (it's called "Little Dubrovnik" for a reason). Unlike Dubrovnik, however, its remote location keeps the vibe mellow and the crowds to a minimum, and the town has been named one of the most romantic in Europe.
GettyKornati Islands
With more than 140 uninhabited islands, the Kornatis are the densest and largest archipelago in the Mediterranean. The Kornati National Park boasts some of the cleanest waters in the country, making it an ideal spot for diving, snorkeling, sailing, and swimming. No permanent settlements exist here, but there are seasonal fisherman's cottages that you can rent for a true, deserted island vacation.