14 Best Things to Do in Croatia in 2023
Croatia is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. As we all know, Croatia is a country of stunning natural beauty. But it’s not just the sea and the beaches that make it such a special place; there are also plenty of things to do in Croatia that will fill your days with excitement and wonder.
We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for the best things to do in Croatia. Our list includes everything from fun activities for kids to wild adventures for adults, from day trips to multi-day excursions.
1. Marvel at Plitvice Lakes National Park’s waterfalls
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of Croatia’s most beautiful places, and the best things to do with its waterfalls and lakes.
It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, meaning it’s one of the most important natural sites in the world.
It’s best to visit this park during the springtime when you can see all the flowers blossoming and hear birds chirping away happily.
The park has four seasons: summer, autumn, winter, and spring. In summer, it’s hot and humid; in autumn, it’s cool and crisp; in winter, it’s cold and snowy; and in springtime, flowers are everywhere!
If you want to explore this park properly without feeling rushed along by crowds of tourists, we suggest doing so at sunrise or sunset when fewer people will be around (especially on weekdays).
This way, you can enjoy yourself without elbow your way through crowds of people who want to take photos at every turn!
Where to stay near Plitvice Lakes National Park:
Jezero Hotel: The Jezero Hotel, located in the heart of the Croatian coast, is a luxury resort that offers everything you could want in a getaway.
With an on-site spa and wellness center, you can relax and rejuvenate in every way possible during your stay. You will have a great Croatia vacation.
2. Discover Split’s Diocletian’s Palace
Split’s Diocletian’s Palace is an incredible place to explore. The palace was built in the 4th century AD as a retirement home for Roman emperor Diocletian, and it was left intact when the city of Split was built around it.
It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions.
You can tour the palace on your own or take a guided tour with one of the local guides who know all the details about this fascinating place. You can also visit some of the museums inside the palace, including the Archaeological Museum and Ethnographic Museum.
There are also many beautiful gardens surrounding the building where you can relax during your visit or explore further by taking a stroll around Split’s historic center.
There are many things to do in Croatia, but visiting Diocletian’s Palace should be great!
Where to stay near Split’s Diocletian Palace
Heritage Hotel Antique Split: The Heritage Hotel Antique Split is a five-star hotel in Split, Croatia. It’s located right next to the Diocletian’s Palace and is within walking distance of many other sites, including the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
3. Explore the old town of Dubrovnik, complete with walled city walls and fortresses.
Dubrovnik is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, and it’s not hard to see why. Stunning beaches surround the city, and has an old town that’s been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The old town features walled city walls and fortresses, so you can explore the different neighborhoods while getting a little exercise on your trip.
You’ll find plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops throughout the city, but if you’re looking for something a little more unique, don’t miss out on the chance to visit some of the local bars where people go to enjoy music and dance.
Where to stay near the old town of Dubrovnik
Boutique Hotel Stari Grad: Boutique Hotel Stari Grad is a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Croatia. The hotel is in a medieval town on the island of Hvar, and its architecture has been preserved since the 18th century.
This hotel features a spa that offers massages, facials, and body treatments. It also has an indoor pool and fitness center.
4. Visit Zagreb’s Museum of Broken Relationships
Croatia is home to some truly spectacular museums. The Museum of Broken Relationships, however, is a unique one-of-a-kind experience, and it’s one you won’t want to miss!
The museum has been around since 2005, when two people broke up and decided to turn their broken relationship into a new kind of art: an interactive museum about all the different ways relationships can go wrong.
This museum features items donated by strangers who have donated things that remind them of their failed relationships.
This is the best thing to do in Croatia vacation. If you want to experience a unique museum, this is the place for you. It’s completely different from any other museum in the world, and it’s something that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime!
Where to stay near Zagreb’s Museum
Zagreb 3 Hearts: Zagreb 3 Hearts is a luxury travel company in Croatia that offers tours of the city and surrounding areas. The company is run by friendly, experienced staff eager to help you plan your trip, whether you want to spend it sightseeing, hiking, or just lounging on the beach.
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway or family vacation in Croatia, this would be an ideal way.
5. Take a boat ride through Kopački Rit Nature Park.
If you want a truly unique experience while in Croatia, take a boat ride through Kopački Rit Nature Park.
This nature park is located in central Croatia and covers an area of more than 200 square miles. It’s known for its wetlands, which attract many different animal species, including storks, cranes, pelicans, and egrets.
You can rent a boat for just about any time, from half an hour to several hours. And enjoy the scenery from the water. Guided tours are also available if you’d like someone else to drive!
The park itself is home to many different historical sites as well. You’ll find remains from prehistoric settlements there and castles and churches from later periods in history.
Where to stay near Kopački Rit Nature Park
Baranjska eko drvena kuća: The Baranjska eko drvena kuća is a beautiful, rustic wooden house perfect for anyone looking to experience a true Croatian vacation. The house is located on a lake and includes a large deck with beautiful lake views.
The house has all the amenities you’ll need, including WiFi and cable TV. The house’s location makes it perfect for fishing, boating, swimming in the lake, and exploring the surrounding area by foot or bike.
6. Experiencing Zadar sunsets – one of the best things to do in Croatia
Zadar is one of the most popular cities in Croatia. It’s a city known for its beautiful sunsets, beaches, and rich history. Zadar has been around since the 13th century, making it one of the oldest cities in Croatia.
While there are plenty of things to do in Zadar, one of the best ways to experience this beautiful city is by watching the sunset at one of its beaches.
If you’re looking for a beach where you can watch the sunset and have some privacy, we recommend checking out Badija Beach or Borik Beach. They are both beautiful beaches with golden sand and clear blue water, making any sunset seem even more magical!
Where to stay near Zadar
Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik: The Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik is a luxurious resort with a family-friendly atmosphere. The hotel features two outdoor pools, one indoor pool, and a children’s play area. There are also two hot tubs and a spa area with massage services. It is the perfect place for kids to play while you relax in the sun!
7. Fall in love with Little Venice aka Varazdin.
Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. It’s a small country, but it has a lot to offer. The best thing to do in Croatia is fall in love with Little Venice, Varazdin.
Varazdin is a town close to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. It’s famous for its canals and beautiful bridges. Varazdin also has many interesting sights and things to do.
The best way to see Varazdin is by walking along its streets and exploring the old town center, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. You can also visit the Museum of Waterworks or the Church of St Peter and Paul, one of Croatia’s oldest churches.
Where to stay near Varazdin
Park Boutique Hotel: Hotel Turist is a luxury hotel in Varaždin, Croatia. This hotel has a lot of amenities and services that make it stand out from the rest. It has an indoor swimming pool, sauna, fitness center, and more.
The rooms are spacious and very comfortable. They offer free WiFi access and cable TV with many channels.
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8. Mix it up in Sibenik.
Sibenik is a beautiful city in Croatia, and it’s also home to one of the best things to do in Croatia: the Sibenik Cathedral. This cathedral was built in the 13th century and has been standing since then. It’s a cool piece of history you’ll want to visit while you’re there.
While in Sibenik, don’t forget to eat at one of the many restaurants or cafes in town. You can’t go wrong with them; get out there and explore!
Where to stay near Sibenik
Bellevue Superior City Hotel: It is the perfect place to stay when visiting Sibenik, Croatia. The hotel’s location is ideal, with a beautiful harbor view and easy access to the city’s main attractions. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with plenty of amenities and a gorgeous design aesthetic.
9. Kayak the Dalmatian coast
Kayaking the Dalmatian coast is one of the best things to do in Croatia. The Adriatic Sea, with its clear waters and rocky coastline, is ideal for kayaking enthusiasts. Kayaking is a great way to see the coast up close and personal while getting some exercise simultaneously!
The best time for kayaking on this part of Croatia’s coastline is during the summer when temperatures are warm enough for swimming but not so hot that you won’t want to get into cold water!
Many companies offer rentals, guided tours, and other activities, such as sailing or surfing, so make sure you plan before going out there all by yourself!
Where to stay near Dalmatian cost
Rixos Premium Dubrovnik: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik is a five-star hotel in the center of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It’s an oasis of luxury and relaxation in the heart of this amazing city.
The hotel offers many amenities, including an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, sauna, hot tubs, steam rooms, jacuzzis, and private beach lounge chairs. You can also enjoy a variety of treatments at the spa or take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea.
10. Potter the Peljesac peninsula
The Peljesac peninsula is an island-dotted area of Croatia home to some of its most iconic cities, including Korcula and Hvar. The former is known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” while the latter is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant nightlife.
If you’re looking for a quieter experience, consider visiting Brela or Vela Luka–they both boast stunning views of neighboring islands such as Brac and Korcula.
In these smaller towns, you can explore centuries-old churches or relax on beaches like Stari Grad Beach near Dubrovnik, where locals gather each evening with their families after work to watch sunsets together over drinks or dinner at one of many seaside restaurants nearby.
Where to stay near the Peljesac peninsula
Aminess Grand Azur Hotel: The Aminess Grand Azur Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Croatia, and it’s easy to see why. This five-star hotel has all the amenities you could want: a swimming pool, a spa, and even a private beach.
The rooms are spacious and bright, with hardwood floors and large windows that let in plenty of natural light.
11. Visit Vukovar
Vukovar is a city in eastern Croatia. The city was the site of a major battle during the Croatian War of Independence, which resulted in heavy damage and loss of life. Since then, Vukovar has been rebuilt and restored to its former glory.
The most notable landmark in Vukovar is its water tower, a symbol of resistance during wartime that was destroyed by Serbian forces but rebuilt soon after hostilities ended.
Where to stay near Vukovar
Pansion Vila Vanda: Vila Vanda is a beautiful pansion on Korcula island, located off Croatia’s coast. This 5-star hotel has a prime location in the town center, with views of the Adriatic Sea and nearby islands.
The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with contemporary decor and sleek furnishings; each room has a private balcony or terrace overlooking the sea.
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12. Explore the Elaphite Islands
The Elaphite Islands National Park is a must-visit for those who love nature and history. The park covers four islands: Koločep, Lastovo, Mljet, and Korčula.
The island of Mljet has many scenic spots you should see while visiting this part of Croatia. It has lush vegetation and plenty of wildlife, including deer and wild boar!
There are also some great hiking trails through the hills here if you want to explore more closely than by boat or car. You can visit either by day trip or stay overnight in one of their hotels if you want more time to explore everything in store for you at this incredible destination!
Where to stay near Elaphite Islands
Hotel Bozica: It is a beautiful boutique hotel located near Elaphite Islands. Its prime location has a private beach and a rooftop pool overlooking the city’s historic walls.
The hotel offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the best of Croatia without sacrificing comfort or luxury.
13. Visit Mljet National Park
Mljet National Park is a beautiful island in the Adriatic Sea and a protected area of great natural beauty. It is also known as an archipelago comprising 21 islands and islets. The national park was established in 1979 and covers an area of 57 square kilometers (22 sq mi).
Mljet has been described as one of Croatia’s most beautiful islands by the Lonely Planet Travel Guidebook. Here you can find the oldest forest in Europe, dense forests full of wild boars, deer, and other animals; salt lakes created by ancient volcanoes; crystal clear waterfalls that cascade down rocky cliffs into deep pools below; remote beaches well hidden from view until you reach them by boat.
Where to stay near Mljet National Park
Hotel Odisej: The Hotel Odisej is a luxury resort in Croatia that offers guests the chance to stay in a villa or apartment, as well as enjoy access to the hotel’s private beach, spa and wellness center, and pool.
14. Relish rakija grape brandy.
There are many things to do in Croatia that will leave you feeling refreshed and recharged. One of the most popular activities is enjoying a glass of rakija, a type of grape brandy.
Rakija is a popular drink in Croatia, often made from grapes, plums, or prunes. The alcohol content can be anywhere from 40% to 60%, depending on how long the grapes were left to ferment.
Rakija can be served as an after-dinner drink or as an aperitif. Some people mix rakija with orange juice or water to make it more palatable for those who do not like drinking straight alcohol.
It also adds great to coffee drinks such as cappuccinos or espressos!
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Conclusion
We do hope that you find this article useful and informative. All the attractions are worth your visit and things to do in Croatia, so it is up to you to determine which ones appeal to you the most. We want you to feel welcome and safe while visiting Croatia, and we wish you an unforgettable experience in this very special country! Enjoy your Croatia Vacation! Happy journey!