Croatia Travel Guide: Dubrovnik, Split, the Islands and Plitvice
Dubrovnik's walls, Diocletian's Palace in Split, Hvar and Korčula, Plitvice Lakes and Istria – the best places to visit in Croatia and how to plan a trip.
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Croatia's long Adriatic coastline, more than a thousand islands and well-preserved Roman and Venetian towns have made it one of Europe's favourite holiday destinations – regularly named among the best countries to visit. Here's where to go.
The Dalmatian coast
1. Dubrovnik
Walk the complete circuit of the old city walls early in the morning, before the cruise crowds arrive. Ride the cable car up Mount Srđ for sunset, and swim from the rocks below the walls.
2. Split
The old town is built inside the walls of the Roman emperor Diocletian's palace. Cafés, shops and homes fill its ancient streets, and the Riva waterfront is the place for an evening drink.
3. Hvar
The island's harbour town is glamorous and lively, with a Spanish fortress above it. Inland, lavender fields and quiet villages offer a different pace.
4. Korčula
A miniature walled town on a peninsula, famous for its herringbone street plan, local white wines and sword dances.
5. Šibenik and Krka National Park
Šibenik has a UNESCO-listed cathedral, and Krka's waterfalls and boardwalks are close by.
Inland and the north
6. Plitvice Lakes National Park
Sixteen terraced lakes linked by waterfalls, in shades of turquoise and green. Buy tickets online in advance and arrive early; swimming is not allowed.
7. Istria
The peninsula near Italy has hilltop towns such as Rovinj and Motovun, truffles, olive oil and the Roman amphitheatre at Pula.
8. Zagreb
The capital has a pretty upper town, cafés, museums and one of Europe's best Christmas markets.
Getting around
Croatia's main airports are Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar and Pula. Ferries and catamarans link the islands – book ahead in summer. A car is useful on the mainland, but parking in old towns is limited, so many travellers use transfers between airports and hotels.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Croatia?
May, June and September are ideal: warm weather and sea, but fewer crowds than July and August. Many island hotels and ferries reduce services from November to March.
How many days do you need in Croatia?
A week covers Dubrovnik, Split and one island. Ten days to two weeks lets you add Plitvice, Zagreb or Istria.
What currency does Croatia use?
Croatia uses the euro, and it is part of the Schengen area.
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