8 Best Places to Visit in Croatia: Top picks for 2024!

Stretching all along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is the most western of the Balkan countries, formerly part of Yugoslavia. Remember King’s Landing from Game of Thrones? Visit the real-life location in Dubrovnik, Croatia!

Beyond Dubrovnik are many other awe-inspiring places to visit in Croatia that you need to experience.

For instance, Croatia is home to 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, despite being a small country. Some of these sites include Plitvice Lakes National Park, Diocletian’s Palace in Split, and the Old City of Dubrovnik. 

Without further delay, let's talk about the Croatian places that are really worth it for you to visit!

What Part of Croatia Should I Visit?

Before you travel to Croatia and start touristing, it's important to know which part of the country you should visit. Although Croatia is not a big country, its Adriatic coastline is quite long, stretching for roughly 1800km (1100 miles)!

Croatia is divided into four regions: Croatia Proper, Dalmatia, Slavonia, and Istria.

Croatia Proper is the area surrounding the capital city of Zagreb. Dalmatia represents most of the coastline from Rab Island to the border with Montenegro. Slavonia is nestled between Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina. Istria is a peninsula in the north. 

Each Croatian region has its own features, from the cultural hotspot of Zagreb and the beaches along the Dalmatian coast to the beautiful Istrian towns. And no matter where you go, the country is a safe place for tourists, especially if you take the right precautions to keep yourself safe while traveling Croatia.

Based on your idea of what a "perfect" holiday looks like, there are so many options. You'll find at least one amazing place to visit in Croatia on my list of favorites below!

8 Best Places to Visit in Croatia

8. Plitvice Lakes National Park: Best for stunning natural sites

The gorgeous Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see if you’re looking to admire the beautiful Croatian landscapes. The park extends over roughly 300 square kilometers, with dozens of lakes in all shades of blue and green, beautiful waterfalls, and lush greenery. 

What to do at Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes is less than two hours south of Zagreb and is easy to reach by bus. You can easily spend an entire day walking around the park, exploring hiking trails, and taking electric boats to reach more remote areas. 

The park is beautiful in any season, although it tends to get more crowded in summer. Make sure to plan your visit and buy the entry tickets online!

7. Dubrovnik: Best place in Croatia for iconic landmarks

To see the most iconic landmarks in Croatia, Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the place to go.

The Old City of Dubrovnik was chosen as a film location for Game of Thrones for a good reason. The walled city, once a rival of Venice, is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful sights to see in Croatia.

Where to go in Dubrovnik Croatia

Walk along the walls of the Old Town to learn about its history. Discover the shops and restaurants lining the narrow alleyways. Enjoy stunning views of the walled city from the Lovrijenac Fortress. Alternatively, you can climb to the top of Mound Srđ for spectacular panoramic city views.

Most visit Dubrovnik to enjoy its beautiful historical sites. But in the summer, the nearby beaches also become some of the best places to relax in Dubrovnik. Plaža Sveti Jakov, Plaža Danče, or Plaža Bellevue are among the most famous beaches in Dubrovnik.

6. Zagreb: Best Croatian city for culture and arts

If you’re wondering where to go in Croatia for great museums, art galleries, and cultural events, then look no further than Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city. 

The city is home to very unique museums, like the Museum of Broken Relationships, the 80’s Museum, the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, and the Museum of Illusions. 

What to do in Zagreb

Visit some of the most famous art galleries in Zagreb!

If you're looking to view the amazing artistic scene, you can visit the Mimara Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, to name just a few. There are also many events, festivals, and art installations throughout the year to check out. 

The Croatian capital is also filled with beautiful squares, unique churches, and many traditional restaurants. The best way to explore the city and get to know a bit of its history is to join a walking tour. 

5. Split: Best Croatian city for historic sites

If not for the little stands selling souvenirs and the big crowds of tourists, it almost feels like time has stopped in the historical center of Split. 

Where to go in Split Croatia

If you like history, especially that of Ancient Rome, then you will love Split.

Take a stroll through Diocletian’s Palace, the most remarkable landmark in Split. The beautiful architecture will make you feel like you’ve traveled back to Ancient Rome. 

You can also visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius inside the old Mausoleum of Diocletian. Check out the palace gates or discover the Temple of Jupiter. 

If you're okay with climbing, try going up to the top of the bell tower and enjoy the view of the city from above. Alternatively, if you want to stay on the ground, you can stop by the central square of the Peristil. In the square, you'll be able to admire the building’s arches and gates and imagine how the place must have been over 1700 years ago. 

Want to take a break from time traveling and just relax? Take a stroll through Marjan Park or soak in the sun on Znjan Beach or Beach Trstenik.

4. Krka National Park: Best place for amazing waterfalls

Krka National park is the second most famous national park in Croatia.

Krka is known for its stunning network of waterfalls. The impressive Skradinski Buk waterfalls are among Croatia’s most picturesque sights, attracting over one million visitors annually. 

What to do at Krka National Park

Halfway between Split and Zadar, Krka National Park is a great place to visit with mild temperatures year-round.

In summer, large crowds form to catch the boat that takes visitors to the main waterfalls. If you want to escape the crowds, consider visiting during the mid or low season. Remember to book your tickets early if you're looking to take the boat for better views!

Aside from enjoying the sight of the waterfalls, you can join organized boat tours to other spots like Visovac Island, Roški Slap, or Krka Monastery. 

3. Pag Island: Best Croatian island for partying

Also known as the Croatian Ibiza, Pag Island is undoubtedly one of the best places to go in Croatia for nightlife. Zrce Beach, to the north of the island, is the place to be for a fun night out! Several beach clubs host events featuring local and international DJs every night.

Where to party on Pag Island

One of the most popular clubs on Zrce Beach is Kalypso, the oldest beach club in southeast Europe and the location of many festivals. Papaya, Aquarius, Euphoria, and Noa Beach Club are other renowned open-air Croatian clubs open during the summer months. 

The island is also renowned for its stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, like Čista, Sveta Marija, and Ručica. Pag Island is great if you want to combine chill beach days with fun night outs.

2. Brač Island: Best place in Croatia for beaches

Croatia is filled to the brim with beautiful beaches. Wherever you go, you will find great spots for swimming and sunbathing! 

However, Brač Island is famed for housing some of the best beaches in the entire country. Picture crystalline waters, lush greenery, and lovely small towns with seaside views. 

Best beaches on Brač Island

Whether you prefer a pebble beach or a sandy beach, in Brač you will find them all.

Zlatni Rat, also known as the Golden Horn, is the most iconic beach on the island and one of the most beautiful in the Adriatic. Yet, there are many other beaches worth seeing on Brač Island, like Bijela Kuća, Murvica, and Likva. 

1. Opatija: Best Croatian city for relaxing

Image a romantic retreat with good food and strolls along a seaside promenade, lined with carefully curated flower decorations. If this is your idea of a perfect vacation, then Opatija is the place for you.

Where to go in Opatija

The small city outside of Rijeka goes by many names, all meant to evoke its prestige. Some of Opatija's most famous names include the Adriatic Nice, the Pear of the Adriatic, and Vienna by the Sea.

The charming Opatija was the first Croatian tourist destination in the mid-18th century. The city features elegant Habsburg-era architecture, beautiful parks, and a gorgeous coastal promenade. 

Opatija is also known for its many wellness options. Many hotels have spas and wellness centers to offer you a relaxing holiday. 

Plan your trip to Croatia!

With so many must-see locations in Croatia, it’s time to start narrowing down the list and planning out your trip! Make the trip organization stress-free by introducing Pilot into your life.