This Mediterranean nation of Croatia holds the perfect balance of history, stunning coastline, and outdoor activities. It’s been hard to pin down the best things to do in Croatia as this beautiful country has a lifetime of places to visit so you’re in for a treat.
Croatia has almost 4,000 miles of coastline and over 1,000 islands, especially impressive given the relatively small size of the country. Tucked up at the top of the Adriatic Sea in the Mediterranean, Croatia is the perfect destination if you want both adventure and easy traveling.
If nothing makes you happier than clear, warm seas, Croatia will reward you over and over again. If you want to explore historic castles, meander the streets of old towns, and see medieval architecture, you’ll be right at home here too.
No matter where you go in this country, with eight national parks, 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and town after town of welcoming people, a trip here will be unforgettable.
Read on to discover the best things to do on your Croatian vacation.
1. Explore History in Dubrovnik
This iconic ancient city has become even more famous as a filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. It always deserved to be visited though, with its spectacular Old Town and winding city walls.
Visit the vast cathedral, fall in love with the Franciscan Monastery’s magnificent library, and get lost in the beautiful winding streets.
2. Visit Diocletian’s Palace in Split
You might think that this palace is simply a beautiful building to visit in Split but the reality is quite different. Diocletian’s Palace is a sprawling, 7-hectare walled section of the city.
A phenomenal example of Roman architecture, this exquisite fortress is filled with pretty streets, cafes, and a history so incredible you won’t want to leave. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site with your camera in hand because around every corner is a wonderful surprise.
3. See the Roman Amphitheater in Pula
Right up in the north of Croatia, you’ll find another relic of the Roman Empire that’s incredibly well preserved. Once seating around 20,000 spectators for gladiator fights, this 2,000-year-old arena is one of the best things to see for anyone who loves history.
You can explore inside the amphitheater and witness its huge size for yourself. Don’t forget to check out the exhibitions in the underground passages where gladiators once walked.
4. Explore Paklenica National Park
Croatia is filled with charming towns and ancient ruins but it also cherishes the phenomenal landscape within its borders. Paklenica National Park is one of the most well known, thanks to its central position and impressive range of things to do.
Rugged mountains give hikers jaw-dropping views across pine forests and steep gorges. With two huge canyons as well as Manita Pec cave, the geology of the area will amaze you.
5. Go Sailing in the Adriatic
Croatia’s seemingly endless coastline is one of the reasons so many tourists flock to this country every year. The Adriatic is blessed with warm, clear waters perfect for diving and swimming.
Thanks to the many islands, sailing along the coastline offers protected waters and easy cruising. Charter a yacht or book onto a boat tour to experience Croatia from the sea.
6. Marvel at the Plitvice Lakes
How do you feel about cascading waterfalls, boardwalks over turquoise lakes, and views that are too good for Instagram? That’s what you’ll find when you visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a group of 16 lakes set in lush surroundings. You can walk on the marked hiking trails for outstanding views and take a ferry or train from one end to the other.
7. Visit the Fairytale Trakoscan Castle
Croatia has islands, mountains, and beautiful cities. But it’s also famous for something else. Its abundance of castles. Croatia has castles dotted throughout the country, all from different periods in history.
Because there are so many, you can visit castles from wherever you’re based. If you’re traveling north of Zagreb, Trakoscan Castle is a fantastic choice. This 13th Century castle sits high above a lake and the museum inside will teach you all about its history.
8. Relax on Korcula Island
One of Croatia’s largest islands, Korcula is a popular destination for a very good reason. With dense forests, beautiful shores, and a medieval town, Korcula is like a miniature version of the whole country.
Suspected birthplace of the famous traveler Marco Polo, exploring Korcula feels like your very own adventure. The Old Town is the perfect place to meander the streets with its medieval stone buildings and bright terracotta rooftops. You can go hiking and mountain biking through the landscape too, with sea views everywhere you look.
9. Dive to See the Stations of the Cross Statues
One of the most amazing things to do in Croatia isn’t on land at all, it’s underwater. Near the ancient city of Trogir lies the underwater sculpture park of the Stations of the Cross.
Go on a snorkel or dive tour to see these mesmerizing statues between 4 and 12 meters deep. This is also a magical place to take a PADI dive course.
10. Sunbathe on Zlatni Rat Beach
Croatia is famous for its shorelines but not so much for its rare beaches. If you’d like to relax on perfect sand, Zlatni Rat Beach is the place to go. On the island of Brac, this little sandy peninsula looks like it should be somewhere far more tropical.
With a backdrop of rolling, green mountains, swim in the flawlessly clear water or even give windsurfing a go.
11. Test Out Croatian Wine
Croatian wine is something of a well-kept secret. Not very well-known outside this region of Europe, the wine produced in this country is outstanding. There are many vineyards to choose from so head to the Peljasec Peninsula or the Istria region to sample the best wines.
Make the Most of Your Trip with These Amazing Things to Do in Croatia
From swimming and island hopping to hiking and exploring Roman ruins, there are more things to do in Croatia that you would believe. This Mediterranean country has everything. Jagged coastlines with ancient cities and mountainous forests full of wildlife reveal the diversity of the nation.
Visiting Croatia is easy and you’ll be met with open arms wherever you go. With so many beautiful places, any vacation here will be wonderful, just don’t forget your camera.
Enjoy your vacation and browse our online magazine for some more healthy lifestyle tips!
