Croatia Holidays

Into exploring culture? Croatia has to be on your list. It’s a cultural hotspot with a rich history and a vibrant food scene waiting for you to dive in.

Destination highlights

Thousands of beaches to choose from
One for the culture lovers
Vibrant nightlife
Foodie heaven

Read more about things to do in Croatia and travel advice for Croatia.

What are the best beaches to visit for your Croatia holidays 2024?

With over 1,000 islands and a coastline that spans 3,600 miles, beautiful waters are around every corner on Croatia holidays.

Zrće Beach - Breath-taking sunsets meet all-night parties on the sands of this glorious bay
Omis Beach - Pine trees line the soft, golden sands of Omis Beach, against the dramatic backdrop of the mountains
Zlanti Rat Beach - An iconic island favourite, known better to some as the ‘Golden Cape’
Paradise Beach - A warm, shallow bay which stretches out for miles. Perfect for family holidays to Croatia
Cape Kamenjak Bay - A rugged coastline, featuring natural coves that line the glittering Adriatic waters
Banje Beach - A popular in-town gem providing jet-skiing and paragliding opportunities for the adrenaline junkies, and near some of Dubrovnik’s best hotels

What are the top hotels in Croatia?

Luxurious getaway bases. Hidden mountain villas. Cosy, family-run apartments. Croatia holidays have it all, even if you've got your eye on one of our last-minute holidays. We've got you. (Well, Croatia has.)

Sunce - Located right on the beachfront, nestled within Croatia’s tranquil Dalmatia region
Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort - This stylish accommodation, situated in a secluded bay, has a private beach and a tiered pool with sea views
Villa Dvor - Nestled within the Mosor Mountains, above the village of Omis, this rustic villa has a show-stopping restaurant that any serious foodie has to check out
Bacan Serviced Apartments - Situated in the beautiful town of Cavtat, surrounded by art museums, these apartments are suited to culture lovers
Podstine - An elegant, family-friendly hotel, featuring one of the best spas in Europe
Park Plaza Histria Pula - A hotel with lots of entertainment and sports facilities, as well as a spacious terrace that overlooks the sea

Your Handy-Dandy Croatia Travel Guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Croatia for families

It's always a rip-roaring good time when you and the fam hit the streets of Croatia... or trees... or water... there's a tonne to do is what we're getting at, and we reckon you should keep these two vacay defining activities in mind. If you're looking to combine your little ones love of animals with a day out surrounded by nature, then Kuterevo's Bear Sanctuary is the place to be, where the orphaned bears are taken care of in their foresty home - you might be stuck behind the wheel for a lil bit to get the whole gang there, but it'll be worth it to learn more about Croatia's endangered brown beauties.

If you're looking for something a lil less rural and a whole lot more family-fun in the city vibes, then Sibenik's International Children's Festival is definitely one to make the most of. With a tonne of activities, workshops and crafts that'll keep the whole fam entertained, this festival is all about creatively uplifting children which it does and then some, so if you're struggling for things to do, and you find yourself on your holidays to Croatia in June, then you're sorted.

🍕 Things to do in Croatia for foodies

If you're prone to sampling the local fare and flavour, and you happen to find yourself in Split on your Croatia holidays then other than roaming the Medieval streets, you can make your way to the city market where there are tonnes of different foods to sink your teeth into from prosciutto to different cheeses, soparnik pie to delish seafood dishes you can wash down with only the best local wines and, of course, desserts and sweet wines to finish on a high note. Why leave it up to fate though? Book yourself on a city tour and let someone else take the reigns on your gastronomic extravaganza.

This one's for all our sweet-tooth friends out there, if you fancy making a lil day trip to the island of Solta just off the West coast of Split, you can try your hand at some honey-making. The Tvrdic family have their own aviary perfect for you to see the bees at work making delicious sweet and sticky honey, take a stab at some beekeeping and honey-making yourself and, it goes without saying, you'll be tasting a tonne of honey throughout the day too, maybe skip the breakfast pastries if you're gonna make the most of this one.

🏛️ Things to do in Croatia for culture vultures

One of the most exciting ways to combine a love of history with one of the biggest cult-phenomenon's in recent memory is by taking a Game of Thrones tour of Dubrovnik. You'll be traipsing down streets that'll seem familiar if you're a fan of the show, seeing where all the political scandal, all the valiant battles, all the betrayals took place. If you've got your finger on the pulse of pop culture then this is definitely not one to miss - Dubrovnik is known as the real life King's Landing, so you'll feel like you've stepped from your living room through the screen which we reckon is pretty iconic.

If you're more into your museums and less about the city strolls, then you might wanna pop the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum in Zagreb at the top of your to-do list. It's a huge collection of science and technology artefacts that give you a glimpse into how things were done back in the Industrial Era. There's also daily talks and presentations to give you more insight, a tonne of workshops and interactive hands-on activities which will have the little ones entertained.

🚴🏼 Things to do in Croatia for adventurers

If you've been after Croatia holidays for awhile, then odds are you've seen a few glimpses of the Plitvice Lakes, a stunning collection of waterfalls adorned with wooden walkways to stroll over. It's the perfect place to come for epic hikes, gorge photo ops and all those waterfalls (seriously, there's a tonne of em). The only con is you can't swim in the waters, that's on UNESCO, if you're looking for waterfalls you can swim by, then you're gonna wanna head to Krka National Park instead.

It isn't all about beaches and chillaxing on your holidays to Croatia, there's plenty more to do if you like a bit of thrills - Cetina River has just entered the chat. This river is the perfect place to do some whitewater rafting, even if you're a complete beginner, it's rated a 2-3 on a scale of 1-6 in terms of its intensity and difficulty, but to put that into a different scope, kids aged 9 and over can enjoy this activity, so not too intense. You'll have a captain steering the ship and it only requires some light manoeuvring - better yet, there are pre-rafting snacks, what's not to love?

Make the most of Croatia by visiting one of these hot spots:

Popular Croatia hotels

Stunning Croatia resorts

Weather in Croatia

JAN

12^°C

FEB

14^°C

MAR

18^°C

APR

20^°C

MAY

21^°C

JUN

24^°C

JUL

26^°C

AUG

27^°C

SEP

25^°C

OCT

20^°C

NOV

15^°C

DEC

10^°C

Summer in Croatia? It's like a beach party that never ends. Temperatures dance around 28°C to 32°C, inviting you to dive into those crystal-clear waters or lounge under a palm tree. The weather in Croatia knows how to turn up the heat, but it's never too much, always keeping things breezy and fun.

With temperatures playing around 18°C to 24°C, spring and autumn are perfect for a stroll through medieval streets, or perhaps a cheeky boat ride along the coast. You know, just casual Croatia things.

Winter weather in Croatia? It's like the country's putting on a cozy sweater and inviting you over for a friendly get-together. Think temperatures of 5°C to 12°C, ideal for exploring charming towns with a hot coffee in hand.

FAQs

It takes about 2h 30m to fly to Croatia from the UK.

Croatia is 1 hour ahead of the UK.

The local currency is the Kuna.

The official language spoken in Croatia is Croatian.

Find out more about:

11 reasons to visit Croatia

Go back in time

Roam Dubrovnik’s famed Old Town Walls - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Croatia’s most glamorous tourist destination. Marble streets surrounded by medieval fortresses and towers transport you to another world. This city is like stepping onto the set of your favourite fantasy series—oh wait, it actually was (hello. Game of Thrones)! Dubrovnik's ancient city walls, sizzling beaches, and jaw-dropping views over the Adriatic are the stuff of dreams. Make sure to catch the sunset from the city walls; it’s a 10/10 experience.

Lose yourself to the lakes

16 turquoise lakes, each connected by waterfalls, await you in Croatia’s most popular inland attraction - Plitvice Lakes National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the eagles and falcons known to fly around this pristine park. It is the definition of a natural wonder. Pack those trainers because it’s a bit of a trek, but oh, it’s worth every step.

Mountain bike in Mljet

Channel your inner adventurer and hire a mountain bike to explore the woodland of Mljet National Park. Whether you're kayaking, trekking through green wonderlands, or lazing under pine trees, Mljet is the perfect spot for a proper good escape, blending adventure and tranquillity in a way that's just bangin'. Fancy a dip into a natural masterpiece? Mljet's got you covered, delivering top-tier vibes and scenery that's nothing short of beautiful! The unspoiled beauty here is heaven for nature lovers. Look out for the 12th-century Benedictine monastery floating on an island within!

Bask in the charm of Rovinj

A romantic, Venetian-era seaside town that you can’t help but fall in love with. Pastel-coloured houses frame a pretty fishing harbour, with boutique-style hotels, up-market seafood restaurants and trendy art galleries too. Nestled on the Istrian Peninsula, it's a picturesque maze of cobblestone streets, popping off with lively cafes and boutiques, all leading to a sparkling marina that's as swanky as they come. The vibe? Utterly Mediterranean but with a unique twist that's all its own. Think of it as the boujee backdrop for your next profile pic, with the iconic St. Euphemia Church keeping a watchful eye over the town, adding a dash of historical sass.

Go Wine Diving

Fine-dining's more adventurous twin, and no it isn't a typo. If you head about an hour from the coast of Dubrovnik to the Peljesac Peninsula, you can dive down to an underwater wine cellar and handpick a very tomb-raider-looking jar - like the best piece of treasure you didn't know you were after. Bring that bad boy to the surface, have it decanted into a carafe, swirl it around, get it all activated and take the first refreshing sip of your aged wine from the depths of the deep blue sea.

What events can I go to in Croatia?
A country that really knows how to celebrate, Croatia’s calendar is jam-packed with history, culture, and beauty.
- The Festival of Oysters (March) - Sample this local delicacy made into lots of different dishes in South Dalmatia, accompanied by local wines and traditional singing and dancing.
- 100 Miles of Istria (April) - A weekend-long endurance event to challenge the fittest of the fit, enter if you dare!
- Festival of Flowers (May) - Held in the cellars of Diocletian’s Palace, you can enjoy themed displays created using Split’s most gorgeous blooms during the Festival of Flowers.
- Pula Film Festival (July) - Both Croatian and international films are shown throughout Pula in the oldest festival of its kind in the country. Try to catch one at the town’s magnificent amphitheatre!
- Rabska Fjera (July) - A famous medieval-style festival, complete with re-enactments and authentic costumes on the fairy tale island of Rab.
- Sinjska Alka (August) - A historic horseback tournament, now part of the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage List, currently in its 306th year! Not one to be missed if you’re around in August.
- Theatre Night (November) - One for the theatre-buffs. Around 80 venues in more than 30 towns and cities in the country hold free (or low-cost) performances for around 40,000 visitors a year. Free workshops and tours have become commonplace now too!
Where’s the best nightlife in Croatia?
Croatia is fast becoming known for its bustling nightlife and festival scene, but there’s plenty for those that like a slower pace too.
- The Novalja strip at Zrće Beach - Home to more clubs than you can shake a (glow) stick at! A party-goers paradise nicknamed the ‘Croatian Ibiza’.
- Carpe Diem - A chic waterfront social spot in Hvar for those who like to dress to impress.
- Boogaloo, Zagreb - A quirky cinema-turned-music venue often hosting local live bands.
- Academia Club Ghetto - A bohemian club in Split with a cosy dance area and a friendly vibe.
- Strossmartre - A pretty area of Zagreb where outdoor bars decorated with glittering fairy lights host live music. Popular with tourists and locals alike.
What's the food like in Croatia?
Croatia is a holiday destination and a half for the food lovers out there! The cuisine is massively diverse due to the influence of its various neighbours. Here are a few dishes to keep an eye out for:
- Sarma - Found all over Croatia in winter, this well-loved dish consists of pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices.
- Crni Rizot - This black risotto is a seafood restaurant staple and a must-try, flavoured and coloured with local squid ink.
- Strukli - Cottage cheese and sour cream-stuffed pastry, so hearty and warming it gives the Cornish pasty a run for its money.
- Pasticada with Gnocchi - Beef that’s been marinated for days, then braised for hours in its own juices, then again with red wine, served with homemade gnocchi. Every family along the Dalmatian coast of Croatia has a recipe for this delicacy.
- Peka - A mixture of meats and veggies seasoned with spices, honey, cognac, and traditional Mediterranean herbs, cooked together in a covered pot in a fireplace. A festival for your mouth.
Here are some of our favourite spots to dig into Croatia’s mouth-watering cuisine:
- La Struk, Zagreb - A restaurant serving only Strukli! Masters of their craft, the chefs here provide traditional types alongside more modern (some even sweet!) interpretations.
- Plavi Podrum - An award-winning restaurant that serves some of the freshest seafood around, caught just a stone’s throw away in the charming Volosko harbour.
- Carpaccio, Zagreb - For those who love Italian food. The shrimp tagliatelle is always a winner, and the extensive wine list never goes down badly either.
- ARTiČOK, Split - A cosy restaurant with all the Croatian classics, and a good vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free selection too. Everyone leaves ARTiČOK with a smile on their face.

Places to visit

Krka National Park
Imagine cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear rivers, and lush, green canopies that look like they've been lifted straight out of a fantasy novel—this place is a real-life Eden. The park's showstopper, Skradinski Buk, is a jaw-dropping collection of waterfalls and pools that invite you for a refreshing dip. But there's more: take a lazy boat ride to the tiny island of Visovac, home to an ancient monastery, or explore the old mills and traditional crafts. Krka isn't just a visit; it's an experience, blending the thrill of adventure with the tranquillity of nature. It's an absolute must-see for anyone wanting to sprinkle their Croatian holiday with a dose of awe-inspiring natural beauty. Pack your swim gear and a good camera, because Krka National Park is a proper good slice of paradise waiting to be explored.
Korcula
Korčula, Croatia's hidden gem sat right in the Adriatic, is a slice of paradise that brings together history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes into a top-notch holiday destination. Picture this: a medieval old town with cobbled streets so charming, you'd half expect to bump into Marco Polo, who's rumoured to have been born here. As you wander through its ancient alleys, you're greeted by the scent of local wines and the sound of traditional Dalmatian music floating in the air. Whether you're here to explore the exquisite Gothic and Renaissance architecture, savour the island's delish culinary offerings, or simply soak up the sun on its pristine shores, Korčula offers a mahoosive blend of relaxation and adventure. It's the perfect spot for those looking to add a dash of elegance and a splash of adventure to their holibobs.
Hvar
Hvar is like the boujee superstar of the Croatian coast, dazzling visitors with its blend of glamour, history, and natural beauty. This sun-kissed island is a hotspot for yachters and celebs, but there's room for everyone to soak up its chic vibe. Picture yourself wandering through Hvar Town, where Renaissance palaces cozy up to trendy bars and restaurants, all under the watchful eye of the ancient fortress perched high above. But Hvar isn't just about the glitz; it's draped in fields of lavender, olive groves, and vineyards that stretch towards secluded coves and beaches. Whether you're here for the top-notch nightlife, the delish local wines, or just to chill in some hidden bay, Hvar promises a mix of relaxation and adventure that's proper good.

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Travellers over the age of 12 are charged tourist tax. This costs around 1 Euro per day for travellers over the age of 18 and 0.50 Euro for travellers between the ages of 12 and 18.

British passport holders can travel to Croatia for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. Holders of other passports are advised to check with their national embassy for any visa requirements.

We are currently closely following the COVID-19 situation and how it affects travel. You can find out the most up to date information about travel to Croatia on the FCDO website.

Croatia Holidays

Destination highlights

What are the best beaches to visit for your Croatia holidays 2024?

What are the top hotels in Croatia?

Your Handy-Dandy Croatia Travel Guide

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 Things to do in Croatia for families

🍕 Things to do in Croatia for foodies

🏛️ Things to do in Croatia for culture vultures

🚴🏼 Things to do in Croatia for adventurers

Make the most of Croatia by visiting one of these hot spots:

Popular Croatia hotels

Stunning Croatia resorts

Weather in Croatia

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

View destination on a map

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Croatia?

What’s the time difference between the UK and Croatia?

What currency do they use in Croatia?

What language do they speak in Croatia?

Find out more about:

Go back in time

Lose yourself to the lakes

Mountain bike in Mljet

Bask in the charm of Rovinj

Go Wine Diving

What events can I go to in Croatia?

Where’s the best nightlife in Croatia?

What's the food like in Croatia?

Places to visit

Krka National Park

Korcula

Hvar

Key facts about Croatia

Flight Time

2.5 hrs

Time Difference

+1 hr

Currency

Euro

Language

Croatian

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Croatia?

Do I need to pay tax on my holiday to Croatia?

Do I need a visa to travel to Croatia?

Will COVID-19 affect my holiday to Croatia?