Tourist attractions

Dubrovnik Old Town

Region: Dubrovnik

Cultural heritage

"Pearl of the Adriatic" walled city. UNESCO World Heritage.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Region: Lika region

Nature

National park with travertine terraces and emerald lakes. One of the first World Heritage registrations.

Diocletian's Palace

Region: Split

Cultural heritage

World Heritage where 4th-century Roman emperor's palace ruins merge with city.

Zagreb Cathedral

Region: Zagreb

Religious architecture

Catholic cathedral with iconic Gothic twin spires.

Hvar Island

Region: Dalmatian Islands

Nature

Sunshine island known for lavender fields and blue sea.

Kornati Islands National Park

Region: Zadar County

Nature

Diving paradise with limestone uninhabited islands and crystal-clear waters.

Pelješac Peninsula Wine Route

Region: Dubrovnik-Neretva County

Food culture

Tasting tours of local Plavac Mali grape production areas popular.

Rovinj Old Town

Region: Istrian Peninsula

Medieval city

Italian-style harbor town preserving cobblestone streets and fishing village scenery.

Zadar Sea Organ

Region: Zadar

Modern architecture

Seaside organ playing with wave power and "Greeting to the Sun" monument.

Pula Amphitheatre

Region: Pula

Ancient ruins

1st-century Roman arena. Summer open-air concert venue.

Suggested itineraries

"Classic Adriatic Longitudinal" Route

Duration (days): 8

Highlights: Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Split, Hvar Island, Dubrovnik

Standard course touring World Heritage and island resorts while moving from inland to coast.

Istrian Gourmet Drive

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Rovinj, Poreč, Grožnjan, Motovun

Circling truffle forests and wine cellars, savoring slow food in hilltop medieval towns.

National Park Hiking Immersion

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Paklenica National Park, Kornati Islands, Krka National Park

Experiencing karst canyons and waterfalls through hiking and kayaking for active travelers.

Travel tips

  • Summer coastal accommodations fill early; book 3 months ahead for safety.
  • Kuna banknotes exchangeable for euros after 2023 but early conversion recommended.
  • Highways use ticket at entry and pay at exit system. Credit cards accepted.
  • Well-developed bus network with convenient online booking site "getbybus."
  • Tap water potable. Coastal Adriatic water has high limestone content, thus hard.
  • Strong summer direct sunlight with high UV index. Hat and sunscreen essential.
  • Beach areas mostly rocky; aqua shoes comfortable.
  • Dubrovnik Old Town less crowded early morning/evening, optimal for photography.
  • Island ferry schedules differ by season; advance confirmation necessary.
  • High credit card penetration but cash may be needed at markets or small shops.
  • English widely spoken on coast but simple Croatian greetings boost favorability.
  • Mountain weather changes rapidly; prepare layered clothing.