Top Places to Visit in Croatia

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore the top places to visit in Croatia, ensuring smooth communication while discovering the country’s stunning coastline, historic cities, and picturesque landscapes.

Croatia Uncovered: 10 Unmissable Destinations for Your 2024 Adventure

Nestled along the sparkling Adriatic Sea, Croatia beckons with its vibrant cities, otherworldly landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry. In 2022, this gem of Eastern Europe welcomed over 18.9 million tourists—13% more than the pre-pandemic high of 2019.

As you plan your own Croatia adventure for 2024, start with these 10 unmissable places to visit in Croatia. From the walled city of Dubrovnik to the cascading lakes of Plitvice, each stop unveils a new facet of this captivating country.

1. Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic

Kick off your Croatia places to visit list in Dubrovnik, the crown jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its stunning Old Town, encircled by massive stone walls that date back to the 16th century.

Stroll the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s limestone-paved main street and don’t miss these top experiences:

• Walk the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic

• Take a cable car up Mount Srđ for breathtaking vistas

• Explore the Gothic-Renaissance Rector’s Palace

• Lounge on Banje Beach just steps from the Old Town

• Visit Lokrum Island, a lush nature reserve with a Benedictine monastery

2. Split: Diocletian’s Palace and Beyond

Continue your journey through the best places in Croatia with a stop in Split. This vibrant city revolves around Diocletian’s Palace, a sprawling 4th-century complex that forms the heart of the Old Town.

Here are some must-dos:

• Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, one of the world’s oldest Catholic cathedrals

• Explore the subterranean Diocletian’s Cellars

• Relax on Bačvice Beach, a sandy stretch popular with locals

• Take a day trip to the charming town of Trogir

• Sample Dalmatian specialities like black risotto and octopus salad

3. Plitvice Lakes National Park: A Natural Wonder

No list of Croatia’s best places would be complete without Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO-listed wonderland is home to 16 terraced lakes, interconnected by a series of waterfalls and cascades.

Wooden walkways wind through the park, offering up-close views of the turquoise waters and lush greenery. Some top tips:

• Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds

• Allow at least 4-5 hours to explore the park

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain

• Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery

• Stay overnight in the nearby town of Rastoke for a quieter experience

4. Zagreb: Croatia’s Capital of Cool

While often overlooked in favour of coastal destinations, Zagreb is one of the best places to go in Croatia for a taste of urban culture. The city’s Upper Town is a treasure trove of historic landmarks, while the Lower Town pulses with museums, galleries, and nightlife.

Don’t miss these Zagreb highlights:

• Visit the colourful St. Mark’s Church, with its tiled roof depicting the Croatian coat of arms

• Take a stroll through Maksimir Park, the city’s oldest public park

• Explore the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships

• Sample local craft beers at one of Zagreb’s many brewpubs

• Shop for fresh produce and artisanal goods at Dolac Market

5. Hvar Island: Lavender Fields and Luxury

For a touch of glitz and glamour, head to Hvar Island, a favourite among celebrities and yacht-setters. This sun-soaked isle is known for its fragrant lavender fields, hillside vineyards, and chic beach clubs.

Some top things to do on Hvar:

• Explore the charming Old Town, with its 13th-century walls and marble streets

• Visit the Franciscan Monastery, home to a stunning Renaissance cloister

• Take a boat trip to the Pakleni Islands, a chain of wooded isles with secluded coves

• Sample local wines at a family-run winery

• Dance the night away at Carpe Diem Beach, one of Hvar’s hottest clubs

6. Korčula Island: Medieval Charm

Often called “Little Dubrovnik,” Korčula Island is a more laid-back alternative to its famous neighbour. The island’s main town, also called Korčula, is a medieval walled city with a fascinating history and a picturesque harbour.

Some must-dos on Korčula:

• Visit the house where Marco Polo is said to have been born

• Climb the Revelin Tower for panoramic views of the town and sea

• Take a scenic drive through the island’s interior, dotted with vineyards and olive groves

• Sample local specialities like žrnovski makaruni, a type of homemade pasta

• Relax on one of the island’s many pebble beaches, like Pupnatska Luka or Vela Przina

7. Rovinj: Istrian Gem

Rovinj is one of the top places in Croatia for a taste of Istrian culture. This fishing port turned tourist hotspot is known for its Venetian-style houses, winding cobblestone streets, and excellent seafood restaurants.

Some top Rovinj experiences:

• Climb the bell tower of St. Euphemia’s Church for stunning views over the town and sea

• Explore the Batana Eco-Museum, dedicated to traditional wooden boats

• Take a sunset stroll along the seafront promenade

• Sample Istrian truffles, a local delicacy, at a restaurant like Monte or Kantinon

• Visit the nearby Lim Channel, a scenic fjord-like inlet

8. Krka National Park: Waterfalls and Monasteries

Krka National Park is another of Croatia’s natural wonders, known for its series of seven waterfalls. The most famous of these is Skradinski Buk, a 150-foot-wide cascade that’s a popular swimming spot in summer.

Some top tips for visiting Krka:

• Take a boat trip from Skradin to the park entrance

• Visit the Visovac Monastery, located on an island in the middle of the Krka River

• Hike the trails around Roški Slap, another impressive waterfall

• Bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to take a dip in the refreshing waters

• Visit in spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds

9. Zadar: Ancient History and Modern Art

Zadar is a city of contrasts, where ancient Roman ruins sit alongside cutting-edge art installations. This historic port has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and its Old Town is a maze of narrow streets and charming squares.

Some top things to do in Zadar:

• Visit the Sea Organ, an art installation that creates haunting music with the motion of the waves

• Watch the stunning sunset from the Greeting to the Sun, a circular light installation

• Explore the ruins of the Roman Forum, dating back to the 1st century BC

• Take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, about 2 hours away

• Sample Maraschino liqueur, a local speciality made from marasca cherries

10. Pula: Roman Heritage

Pula is the largest city in Istria, known for its impressive Roman ruins. The star attraction is the Pula Arena, a well-preserved amphitheatre that dates back to the 1st century AD.

Some other top Pula experiences:

• Visit the Temple of Augustus, a Roman temple dedicated to the first Roman emperor

• Explore the underground tunnels of Zerostrasse, built during World War I

• Take a boat trip to the Brijuni Islands, a national park with Roman ruins and a safari park

• Sample Istrian wine at a local winery like Trapan or Kozlović

• Relax on one of Pula’s many beaches, like Ambrela or Stoja

   

Airtel’s Roaming Plans – Your Companion for Croatian Adventures

As you explore all the best places to visit in Croatia, staying connected is key. While many hotels and cafes offer Wi-Fi, having a reliable data roaming plan can make your trip much smoother.

Airtel’s Postpaid International Roaming Packs ensure seamless connectivity, so you can navigate easily, stay in touch with loved ones, and share your experiences without worrying about connectivity issues.

With Airtel’s 24/7 customer support, help is always available, giving you peace of mind during your travels.