`
From Coast to Countryside: 10 Things to Do in Croatia
As Croatia's popularity continues to rise, is it starting to spark your interest too? This stunning destination is bursting with historical archaeological sites, glistening beaches and vibrant culture that oozes around every corner. From thrilling sailing adventures to world-famous national parks, there’s no shortage of incredible things to do in Croatia!
Your ideal base could be a seaside hideaway near Dubrovnik or maybe a stylish countryside villa nestled in the lush hills of Istria. Set each day at your own pace and balance exploration with well-earned moments of zen, right by your sun-soaked private pool.
So, what are the top 10 best places to visit in Croatia? Let’s dive right in…
1 - Take a Scenic Island-Hopping Tour
If you’re eager to experience as much of Croatia as possible, one of the best things to do is enjoy a breathtaking island-hopping adventure. With over 1,000 islands dotting its coastline, Croatia offers endless opportunities to explore the fascinating landmasses that rise from the Adriatic.
From the city fortresses of Hvar and the scenic viewpoints of Vidova Gora on Brač, to the rich culinary traditions of Korčula and Vis, there’s something to suit every taste.
If visiting these cool spots fits into your holiday plans, staying in one of our lovely coastal villas gives you easy access to local ferry ports and private boat rentals. This makes it all so simple and stress-free so you can explore at your own pace.
2 - Relax on Croatia’s Beautiful Beaches
It truly wouldn’t be a holiday without trips to white sandy, sun-kissed beaches, would it? And with Croatia being home to some of the most stunning beaches along the Adriatic coast, you’re in for a real treat. One of the best places to visit in Croatia includes the golden horn beach of Brač (better known as Zlatni Rat), famous for its unique shape, you’ll find plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Lined with exciting water sports, why not try your hand at windsurfing, you might just discover you’re a natural.
If hidden coves and pebbly coastal walks are more your style, the beautiful Brela Beach on the Makarska Riviera is sure to leave you breathless. Meanwhile, for those visiting the popular (and rightfully so) destination of Dubrovnik, a dip in the turquoise blue waters is the perfect way to fully immerse yourself in its idyllic surroundings.
3 - Watersports and Sailing
For any water babies wondering what to do in Croatia, endless water adventures await you in the water sports hot spots of Split and Dubrovnik. Enjoy calming paddleboarding sessions, exhilarating windsurfing along rugged coastlines or paddle your way into something new with a kayaking lesson.
If you’re craving a taste of the good life, Split offers a wide range of private yacht charters, so if you’re planning something special or just fancy lounging on a yacht for the afternoon, seize the opportunity. It’s sure to be one of the best things to do in Croatia!
4 - Explore Croatia’s National Parks
Outside your villa paradise, some of the nicest places to go in Croatia await, including cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes within the country’s spectacular national parks. Croatia boasts eight beautiful national parks, including the UNESCO World Heritage site Plitvice Lakes. You’ll be spellbound by verdant forests and glimmering waterfalls, creating a peaceful setting perfect for sitting back and breathing it all in.
With your Croatia villa never too far from nature’s beauty, another top sight to explore is the Krka Waterfalls, along with Mljet National Park and its serene marine landscapes.
5 - Taste Croatia’s Delicious Cuisine
If you're thinking about what to do in Croatia, good food should definitely be at the top of your list. Think fresh seafood, flame-grilled delights and flavoursome signature dishes. Dubrovnik has an excellent selection of delectable tavernas scattered throughout. Start your day with coffees and pastries tucked into the cobbled streets, then after a day of exploration, make your way to the Old Town’s waterfront for a sensational night at Restaurant 360 Dubrovnik. This popular spot offers fine dining set against the medieval walls and the fortress of St John, with stunning views over the glistening sea.
If relaxing nights in your blissful Dubrovnik villa are on the agenda, why not spoil your loved ones with an unforgettable alfresco dining experience beneath a blanket of stars? Pick fresh ingredients from charming local markets and create your own culinary masterpieces in the kitchen. It always makes for a fun thing to do on your Croatian escape.
6 - Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations
For all the Game of Thrones fans out there, you’ll likely know that Dubrovnik was a key filming location for the series. With Bokar Fortress playing its part in King’s Landing, you can live out your Game of Thrones fantasies by taking a stroll around this sensational setting.
For the ultimate GOT experience, take a short water taxi to Lokrum Island and reenact your favourite scenes amid the impressive botanical gardens and discover the one and only Iron Throne, before heading back for some well-deserved rest.
If you’re staying in one of our villas in Split, have no fear in missing out as the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace also appeared in the series, making for a cool place to go on your Croatian visit.
7 - Discover Istria’s Wild Beauty at Cape Kamenjak and Beyond
Speaking of cool things to do in Croatia, discovering the beauty of Istria is a must. Journey back in time with your tiny travellers by following the remarkable dinosaur tracks at Cape Kamenjak, a fun and memorable way to explore the outdoors during your stay.
For a glimpse into the past, venture to the Pula Arena for a sightseeing tour like no other - a must see for all history buffs. Once the site of real gladiator fights, these well-preserved ruins now host exciting recreations of ancient battles, a great way to sink your teeth into the overwhelming Italian influences of north Croatia.
8 - Wander Through Croatia’s Ancient Architecture
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do while you’re in Croatia is to enjoy a rich cultural experience by exploring the country’s ancient architecture. Wander through a labyrinth of stunning landmarks such as Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls, baroque churches and monasteries. With each one distinctly unique and awe-inspiring, you’ll spend hours admiring their impressive details.
If you're in Split, Diocletian’s Palace will surely become a real highlight of your visit. Built between 295 and 305 CE, this UNESCO World Heritage site has become a major tourist attraction in Split that truly reflects Croatia’s deep Roman, Byzantine and Venetian roots. Make sure to bring your camera for this one… the place is absolutely breathtaking.
9 - Dive into Mysterious Shipwrecks
Activate mystery mode with captivating visits to eerie shipwrecks, a truly fascinating thing to do in Croatia, where awe-inspiring wrecks rest beneath the Adriatic Sea.
Grab your snorkel and goggles and set off on a new adventure to explore the abandoned wrecks off the coasts of Vis, Pula and Hvar, from the Yugoslavian navy ship of Vis to the 301-year-old shipwreck that lies 40 metres deep off the coast of Hvar. It’s a truly unique experience you’ll remember long after, and you might even be lucky enough to spot marine life, with many visitors seeing starfish and even dolphins on their underwater excursions.
10 - Stroll Along Split’s Riva Waterfront
Chill, slow evenings are made for leisurely strolls along Split’s picturesque waterfront. Imagine lively promenades at sunset, a refreshing cocktail in hand and the chatter of your loved ones as you tuck into a delicious Croatian meal.
Blissful from morning through to night, you can satisfy your cravings, watch the world go by and sink into the easy-going rhythm of Croatian coastal life.
Craving a Croatia Escape?
With so many things to do in Croatia, you’ll find yourself immersed in history, relaxing on golden beaches and admiring the scenic beauty all in a day’s work. And that's the top 10 best places to visit in Croatia all wrapped up, so what will it be?