15 Best Things to Do in Croatia

There’s much more to Croatia than its glittering Adriatic coast. While you absolutely shouldn’t miss the stunning islands or the beauty of Dubrovnik and Split, the country also offers sophisticated culture in Zagreb, baroque beauty in Varaždin, and a range of landscapes that promise breathtaking views and thrilling adventures.

1. Marvel at Plitvice Lakes National Park’s Waterfalls

Sixteen lakes and countless waterfalls make exploring the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park a dream come true. Over centuries, this travertine landscape has formed a vivid world of shallow lakes and waterways shaded by beech forests. Follow the footpaths on raised wooden walkways until you reach Kozjak Lake, where an electric boat awaits.

Local tip: This is Croatia’s largest national park, which is home to bears, wolves, and various rare bird species.

2. Get Lost in Diocletian’s Palace in Split

It’s not often you see a Roman palace become such an integral part of a city. The palace built by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 2nd century CE soon fell into ruin, but by the Middle Ages, it had transformed into a bustling area with apartments and shops. Today, it’s a delightful mix of history and local life.

Local tip: Notably, this UNESCO World Heritage site is home to around 3,000 residents still living within its walls.

A woman walking the walls of Dubrovnik in Croatia. — Walking the walled city of Dubrovnik is a rewarding experience, offering picturesque views © Patricia Jekki / Getty Images

3. Walk Dubrovnik’s Walls

These magnificent medieval and Renaissance ramparts curve around Dubrovnik’s old town for nearly 2 km (1.2 miles). Allocate at least 90 minutes to wander along the walls, taking in spectacular views of the Adriatic, Lokrum Island, and the picturesque sea of terracotta rooftops below.

Planning tip: To avoid crowds, visit first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy a quieter experience.

4. Cycle, Hike, and Swim in Mljet National Park

Often visited as a day trip from Dubrovnik, the lushly green Mljet is worth a more leisurely exploration, particularly its national park. The park features two saltwater lakes surrounded by pine-shaded trails that offer numerous swimming opportunities. Hike to the summit of Montokuc for breathtaking views and to enjoy the fresh scent of Aleppo pines.

Detour: Don’t miss the chance to take a little ferry to St Mary’s Island, known for its church and monastery.

5. Take a Boat Ride Through Kopački Rit Nature Park

Spanning northeastern Croatia by the Serbian border, the vast wetlands of Kopački Rit Nature Park offer some of the most serene landscapes. Enjoy a soothing boat ride through this peaceful nature reserve where the Danube and Drava rivers converge, encountering extraordinary birdlife along the way.

Tourists enjoy views from the Skywalk Biokovo glass observation bridge over mountains and Adriatic Sea, Makarska, Croatia — As you step out onto Skywalk Biokovo, the thrill is undeniable, coupled with stunning views © Vaidotas Grybauskas / Shutterstock

6. Brave the Skywalk Biokovo

You’ll soon discover if you have a head for heights when you step onto the glass horseshoe-shaped platform hovering at 1,228 meters (4,029 feet) in Biokovo Nature Park. Surrounded by the striking beauty of the Dinaric Alps, this skywalk offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic and the distant islands.

7. Wander Through Krka National Park

Not to be outdone by Plitvice, the waterfalls and enchanting landscapes of Krka National Park are equally impressive. Commence your adventure in Skradin, where you can catch a boat service running along the Krka River, passing one magnificent waterfall after another. Make sure to stop at Skradinski Buk, where you can admire one of the most stunning cascades.

8. Take a Picnic to Lokrum

A short 10-minute ride from Dubrovnik’s Old Port leads you to Lokrum. This small island features a Benedictine monastery, a Napoleonic fort, a botanical garden, and cozy bars and restaurants. Don’t forget to grab some picnic snacks from the bakery by the pier before settling in to relax or explore this beautiful escape.

Ancient ruins of Pula arena — The ancient ruins of Pula’s Roman amphitheater come to life in summer © Walter Zerla / Getty Images

9. Visit Pula’s Roman Amphitheater

Constructed at the end of the 1st century BCE, Pula’s massive Roman amphitheater is the sixth-largest surviving arena globally and remains remarkably preserved. Explore the lower chambers, which showcase Istria’s Roman-era wine-making traditions, plus enjoy concerts in this atmospheric venue, especially during the annual Pula Film Festival.

10. Sip Superb Wines in Pelješac

As you drive along Pelješac, the long, finger-shaped peninsula north of Dubrovnik, you’ll find yourself surrounded by hills adorned with vineyards. Stop at local boutique wineries to taste remarkable red wines, notably the robust plavac mali and dingač grape varieties.

Locals and tourists sit at outdoor terraces along cobblestones Ivana Racica Street at dusk, Zagreb, Croatia — Gossip is serious business at Zagreb’s many outdoor cafes © joyfull / Shutterstock

11. Soak Up Zagreb’s Cafe Culture

Coffee is a vital part of the social fabric in Croatia, and nowhere is this more evident than in Zagreb. The city buzzes with cafes where friends gather to share stories and enjoy their favorite brews. If you visit on a Saturday between 10 am and 2 pm, you’ll witness the cherished locals’ ritual of dressing up to go from café to café around the vibrant main square.

12. Hit the White Water in the Zrmanja River Canyon

With Croatia’s dramatic karst landscapes, it’s no surprise that it offers superb rafting opportunities. North of Zadar, the Zrmanja River flows through limestone canyons, promising an exhilarating adventure for thrill-seekers amid stunning natural beauty.

13. Admire Zadar’s Public Art

Zadar, the oldest port city in Croatia, showcases a rich history, blending Roman, Byzantine, and Renaissance influences. Experience the modern world harmoniously mingling with the historic as you stroll along the seafront and hear the haunting sounds of the Sea Organ, an art installation that plays music via underwater pipes.

The view out across the Adriatic Sea as seen from Hvar’s citadel — Climb to the top of Hvar’s citadel for one of the dreamiest views along the Dalmatian Coast © xbrchx / Shutterstock

14. Get the Best View in Hvar Town

The stylish Hvar Town, with its chic marble streets and lively cocktail bars, offers incredible views. Ascend the zigzagging path to the Fortica citadel, established by the Venetians, for one of the most breathtaking views of the Adriatic coastline.

15. Explore Baroque Varaždin

Once the capital of Croatia in the 18th century, Varaždin is a showcase of baroque elegance. With its rococo architecture and beautifully maintained gardens, it’s an ideal location for leisurely strolls. Every September, this refined city hosts a two-week festival of baroque concerts, enhancing its sophisticated atmosphere.

This article was first published June 3, 2022, and updated March 16, 2024.