Croatia Travel Guide

Croatia has quickly become one of Europe’s most rewarding destinations, combining historic cities, Adriatic coastline, and striking natural scenery within a relatively compact area.

From medieval walls overlooking the sea to waterfall-filled national parks, it offers variety without the need for long journeys between highlights. Travellers are drawn by its cultural heritage, relaxed pace, and well-preserved towns, many of which are UNESCO-listed.

Quick highlights: must-see places in Croatia

• Dubrovnik Old Town – A beautifully preserved medieval city set above the Adriatic
• Split & Diocletian’s Palace – Roman history woven into a lively coastal city
• Plitvice Lakes National Park – Waterfalls and lakes linked by wooden walkways
• Hvar Island – Elegant harbour and relaxed island atmosphere
• Trogir Old Town – Compact historic island town
• Zagreb Historic Centre – Cultural capital with café-lined squares

Discover Croatia’s highlights with confidence on a fully escorted Newmarket Holidays tour.

Top things to do in Croatia

These are some of the most popular things to do in Croatia, combining iconic landmarks with relaxed experiences. Many are included within Newmarket Holidays tours, while others can be enjoyed during time at leisure. Always check individual itineraries.

1. Walk the walls of Dubrovnik Old Town

• Overview: Walk along medieval walls with views over the Adriatic and terracotta rooftops.
• Time Needed: 2–3 hours
• Estimated Cost: From €40
• Accessibility: Uneven steps; partial access only

2. Explore Diocletian’s Palace, Split

• Overview: A Roman palace forming the centre of Split’s Old Town.
• Time Needed: 2 hours
• Estimated Cost: Free (entry fees for specific sites)
• Accessibility: Mostly flat, cobbled streets

3. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

• Overview: Wooden walkways connect lakes and waterfalls in a forested setting..
• Time Needed: Half to full day
• Estimated Cost: See official website
• Accessibility: Limited due to uneven terrain

4. Visit the island of Hvar

• Overview: A scenic Adriatic island known for harbour views and historic squares.
• Time Needed: Full day
• Estimated Cost: €20–40 return ferry
• Accessibility: Boat access varies
  

5. Discover Trogir Old Town

• Overview: Compact historic town ideal for a short visit.
• Time Needed: 1–2 hours
• Estimated Cost: Free
• Accessibility: Flat but cobbled

6. Take a coastal drive along the Dalmatian Coast

• Overview: Scenic routes linking historic towns and coastal views.
• Time Needed: Half to full day
• Estimated Cost: Included on tours
• Accessibility: Comfortable via coach travel

7. Visit Dubrovnik’s historic centre

• Overview: Explore streets, squares, and landmarks within the city walls.
• Time Needed: Half day
• Estimated Cost: Free to explore
• Accessibility: Cobblestones and steps

8. Explore Zagreb’s Upper Town

• Overview: Historic streets, churches, and viewpoints in the capital.
• Time Needed: Half day
• Estimated Cost: Free
• Accessibility: Some steep streets

The best time to visit Croatia

Croatia enjoys a varied climate, with warm Mediterranean conditions along the coast and a more continental climate inland. This means that the best time to visit Croatia depends on where you plan to go and what you’d like to experience, whether that’s coastal sightseeing, island visits, or exploring historic cities.

Spring (March–May)

Spring brings mild temperatures (around 10–20°C), blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds. It’s an ideal time for exploring historic towns, national parks, and coastal cities at a comfortable pace.

Summer (June–August)

Summer is the warmest and busiest season, with temperatures often reaching 25–30°C or higher along the coast. This is the best time for island visits and enjoying the Adriatic, though popular destinations can be busy.

Autumn (September–November)

Autumn offers warm early-season temperatures (around 20–25°C in September, cooling later) and fewer visitors. It’s well suited to relaxed touring, with pleasant conditions for both coastal and inland travel.

Winter (December–February)

Winter is cooler (around 5–10°C inland, slightly milder on the coast) and much quieter. While coastal resorts slow down, cities like Zagreb remain lively, particularly during the festive season.

Month-by-month weather guide

• January–February: Cool, quieter; best for cities
• March–April: Mild spring weather, fewer crowds
• May–June: Warm, ideal sightseeing conditions
• July–August: Hottest months, busiest on the coast
• September: Warm seas, fewer visitors
• October: Mild, good for touring
• November–December: Cooler, festive city breaks

Regional tips

• Coast: May–June & September
• Inland/Zagreb: April–June & September–October

For many travellers, late spring and early autumn provide the most comfortable conditions, answering the common question of when is the best time to visit Croatia.