Best Croatia Bucket List: 27 Top Things To Do In Croatia

Wondering what to put on your Croatia bucket list? You’re in the right place!

In recent years, Croatia has been creeping up the ranks as one of the top destinations to visit in the Mediterranean. A country blessed with warm, sunny days, the most delicious cuisine, jaw-dropping landscapes and bluest waters.

The country is also home to some of the most magnificent ancient towns, filled with an abundance of history. If you’re planning a visit, you’ll undoubtedly find a wealth of things to do in Croatia.

To date, I’ve had three separate visits to the country, once to the south, once in the north, and most recently; to the islands. And I can’t wait to go back again!

If you’re looking for a definitive list of things to add to your Croatia to-do list, this is it. The only problem is choosing where to go first.

The Complete Croatia Bucket List

Wondering what the best things to do in Croatia are but in a hurry? If you don’t have time right now to read everything on this bucket list for Croatia, no problem. 

10 Best Things to Do in Croatia

1. The Old Town of Dubrovnik and the City Walls
2. Plitvice Lakes
3. Diocletian Palace, Split
4. ‘Dream Beach’, The Golden Horn Beach
5. Mljet National Park
6. Hvar Island and the Old Town
7. City of Pula and its Roman Amphitheatre
8. Rovinj and the St. Euphemia Church
9. Chase Waterfalls at Krka National Park 
10. The Old Town of Korcula – ‘Mini Dubrovnik’

27 Croatia Must See Things

If you’re not sure what to do in Croatia, this list is a great place to start. It’s packed with great ideas on the best things to see and do, whatever your travel style. The tough part is choosing which things to add to your Croatia itinerary. 

Here are 27 Croatia trip ideas – you won’t be disappointed doing any of these things. 

1. The Old Town of Dubrovnik & The City Walls

Dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the Old City of Dubrovnik has always been one of Croatia’s top places to visit. Then with the onset of Game of Thrones using the city as a backdrop, visitors to this southern city have boomed.

When viewed from above, Dubrovnik has a circular shape which gleams in the bright sun. The now dry moat was once filled with the sapphire-coloured sea. This surrounded the city giving the city the look of a pearl. Dubrovnik really is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia to visit! 

Something to be sure to add to your Dubrovnik bucket list is a walk around the old city walls. The walls stretch for approximately 1940 meters (6365 feet) and the majority of the walls are still intact. 

The oldest parts of the wall date back to the 13th century, and are intersected by lookout towers, complete with portholes and turrets which demonstrates how important the walls were in defending the city. 

Both Dubrovnik Old Town and City Walls became UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1979. In 1991, during the breakup of Yugoslavia, the walls and iconic city were heavily shelled. After the war, major, yet careful reconstruction and restoration took place to bring the city back to its full glory and bump it to the top of most people’s Croatia to-do lists.

Tips for visiting Dubrovnik

• Start your day early, Dubrovnik is a popular port of call for cruise ships, aim to be out and about before they dock.
• To visit the city walls, purchase your ticket well in advance, and be there as soon as the gate opens. Start on the Ploče Gate on the eastern side of the city, this is where the more interesting features are. 
• Dubrovnik is synonymous with Game of Thrones, the best way to see all iconic landmarks is to join one of the Game of Thrones walking tours.
• To escape the crowds and heat, don’t miss Lokrum Island. Catch the ferry from the Old Harbour.

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2. Plitvice Lakes

One of the top things to do in Croatia is to visit the stunning UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes, frequently tipped as one of the top Croatia attractions. The lakes were Croatia’s first national park, as well as being the largest and were founded in 1949. Plitvice National Park became a recognised UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. 

Visitors are attracted in their hundreds of thousands every year to see the beautiful naturally formed lakes and cascades. The park consists of 16 azure blue, photogenic lakes at different levels. The lakes are connected through a series of cascades and waterfalls to create an enchanting setting. 

Around the park, over 8km of wooden boardwalks meander their way between the pools allowing you to literally, walk across water and get up close to them. This is a must-see in Croatia, no picture can really do it justice.

Different shades of water range from bright blue to turquoise and greens. This colouring comes from the natural minerals in each of the lakes. Due to this careful natural balance, it is forbidden to swim in the lakes.  

The lakes are surrounded by over 29,482 dense woodland and forest which is home to a variety of Croatian wildlife such as deer, wild boar and birds. In the national park, there have also been sightings of bears and wolves. They are native to the region, however, they prefer to keep away from the noise of tourists. 

If you decide to visit, which you certainly should, you’ll discover for yourself why Plitvice Lakes are the most visited attraction in Croatia. But because the lakes are one of the best things to see in Croatia, they do get busy.

It’s a good idea to purchase skip-the-line tickets for Plitvice Lakes in advance this is one of the top activities in Croatia so it gets busy! Save the hour-long queue at the onsite ticket office. 

Tips for visiting Plitvice Lakes

• Book your ticket in advance.
• Arrive early in the day to beat the crowds and the summer heat.
• The best views of Plitvice Lakes are from the cliff-top walks – from the biggest waterfall, take the stone staircase leading up to it. This trail has various points where you can look down on the lakes giving you a sense of perspective as to how big they are.

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3. Diocletian Palace, Split

Amazing Diocletian Palace in Split is one of the best-preserved ancient Roman palaces in the world. Because of its historical importance, it is one of the best things to do in Croatia.

Split historical core centre lies within the walls of the 4th century Diocletian Palace making up an incredibly beautiful historical complex.

The Palace of Diocletian is a must-see UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must, especially if you only have one day in Split. It’s also no surprise that the amazing place was a filming location for Game of Thrones, fans of the series will love the Game of Thrones location tour of Split.

The colossal palace was a summer house and a retirement residence of the Roman Emperor Diocletian who preferred Split more than Rome. One wing of the palace served as the splendid Emperor’s residence and the other wing as a mighty station for a military garrison.

The magnificent palace was built with high-quality Croatian, Italian and Greek marble, and decorated with Egyptian columns and sphinxes.

Diocletian’s Palace covers 30,000 square meters featuring the impressive central square called Peristyle, the monumental Cathedral of St. Domnius (originally Diocletian’s mausoleum), the ancient Jupiter’s temple, the seafront emperor’s apartment, fantastic Vestibule, ancient cobbled alleys with four towers and four gates – one on every side.

Tips for visiting Diocletian’s Palace

• A few thousand people live within the walls of the majestic Diocletian palace, so inside you’ll find some of the cosiest coffee and wine bars, as well as some of the top restaurants and bistros in the city.
• Shop for souvenirs in the quaint boutique shops within the walls of the ancient palace as well.
• The palace does get busy, and because of its sheer size, it can be difficult to find where everything is, let alone work out what you’re looking at. It’s certainly worth booking a guided tour of the Diocletian Palace.

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4. ‘Dream Beach’, The Golden Horn Beach On Brac Island

Croatia is blessed with kilometres of beautiful coastline, most often, however, what you will notice is that most of the beaches are pebble, rock or sharp sand. It’s not often they are the dreamy white soft sand.

If you’re after the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, then you’ll need to head to Brac Island and the town of Bol. Here is where you’ll find wide stretches of the most stunningly, soft golden sandy beaches.

One of the best is known as Zlatni Rat, Rat Beach or Golden Horn. It’s also dubbed as ‘Dream Beach’. Visit it, and you’ll know why!

If you’re into beach holidays, the Golden Horn is one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Tips for visiting Dream Beach

• The island of Brac can be easily accessed from both Hvar Island and Split.
• There are plenty of amenities at the beach including places to eat, drink and pedal boats to hire.
• From the centre of Bol, you can walk to the Golden Horn, the walk along the promenade to the beach will take about 15 minutes. If you don’t want to walk then there’s the tourist train, it leaves about every half an hour.

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5. Mljet National Park

Just off the coast of Croatia, in north Dubrovnik, there’s a lush green island called Mljet. And at the western end of the island, is a National Park containing two stunning green lakes. In the middle of one of the lakes, you’ll find a tiny islet on which is a former Benedictine monastery. It’s an island within an island! And the stuff fairy tales are made of and a must-see in Croatia.

The town of Pomena is the entry to the National Park and one of the most picturesque attractions in Croatia. From there you can walk or cycle around the first lake, Malo Jezero. The water here is such a bright turquoise colour!

Where the two lakes join, at Mali Most, you can catch a boat that will take you across the larger lake, Veliko Jezero, out to the monastery island. The island is called Sveta Marija and its monastery was built in the 12th Century. You can explore the grounds and grab a bite to eat in a restaurant that is now in the former monastery building.

Alternatively, you could hire kayaks and enjoy paddling on the clear, still water – or take a hike into the hills around the lakes. Not only is this one of the most beautiful outdoor places to see Croatia but there’s also plenty of choice for adventure sports in Mljet National Park!

Tips for visiting Mljet National Park

• You can visit as a day trip if you are sailing on the Dalmatian Coast
• Another easy way to get there is on a day trip from Dubrovnik. Mljet Island is located across the channel. It’s approximately 15 nautical miles from Dubrovnik and takes just under two hours to sail there on the fast catamaran ferry.

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6. Hvar Island and the Old Town

If you’re looking to plan a trip to Croatia, be sure to add Hvar Island to your itinerary. It’s one of the most beautiful places in the country, in particular, Hvar Old Town especially if you’re planning on island hopping in Croatia.

One of the top things to do is to take a city walk through the historical centre of Hvar Town. There are plenty of interesting attractions, including photogenic squares and the picture-perfect ambience at the enchanting harbour.

Here, you’ll also find one of the top things to see in Croatia, the Cathedral of St. Stephen, the City Loggia with the bell tower next to it, and the 13th-century Armoury.

Equally as wonderful, are the quaint alleys that lead across the old town and up to the fortress hill. At the top, you’ll find Fortica Španjola. This beautiful Spanish fortress dates from the 13th century and is the landmark of the island of Hvar.

The city centre is also full of many fantastic restaurants that serve the best Croatian dishes. Try the excellent local wines which are made directly on the island. In the evening, the cool bars fill up and the nightclubs of the old town invite you to a party.

Tips for Visiting Hvar

• The fortress is 90 meters above sea level, so it’s one of the best places for incredible views of the deep blue sea, the offshore island world and the red rooftops.
• Be sure to try the locally produced wine – there are numerous wineries in Hvar!

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7. City of Pula and its Roman Amphitheatre

Pula is a city that should be on any itinerary for Croatia. It’s located at the southern point of the Istria Peninsula, in northwest Croatia.

Pula is rich in Roman remains, which makes it one of the best destinations in Croatia for ruin addicts. The most important one is the Roman amphitheatre, also called the arena.

The Pula Arena is the 5th largest in the world. It’s slightly oval-shaped at 132 by 105 meters and 32 meters in height. Other Roman remains in Pula are the Forum, the Arch of the Sergii, the temple of Augustus and the Gate of Hercules.

It was built in 1AD during the reign of Emperor Augustus. It’s large enough to seat over 20,000 spectators.

Here they could watch gladiators perform or people being thrown in front of wild animals. Thankfully, that’s not what modern-day spectators get to see at the arena. The amphitheatre is the perfect venue for performances of opera, classical music or pop music.

Tips for Visiting Pula Amphitheatre

• Visit the amphitheatre during the day. Wander around the arena and the dungeons. They have exhibitions about wine and olive oil in Roman times.
• You could easily base yourself for a while in the Istria peninsula. Camp Arena Stoja, a great campsite in Croatia, is just outside the city, but next to the sea. If you’re wondering what to do in Croatia for a week, Pula itself could take a couple of days, and then explore the region after. 

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8. Rovinj and the St. Euphemia Church

Unarguably, one of the most beautiful places in Croatia is Rovinj, the city is named after the patron Saint of Rovinj and is home to the Baroque Church of St. Euphemia which towers over the coastal city in Istrian Croatia.

The Old Town of Rovinj bears a strong resemblance to Venice, which makes sense considering the Venetians ruled here for over four centuries.

The three-nave church of St. Euphemia is perched high on the hill overlooking the town and was constructed in 1725 over the remains of an earlier structure. The Church is often at the centre of community and family events in Rovinj. If you’re lucky enough to catch a wedding in progress, you may even be invited to join in the celebration!

Next to the church is a 200-foot campanile bell tower modelled after St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, and is easily the most recognizable landmark in every photograph of the city.

Surrounded by the city’s original 12th-century wall, the church is a must-see in Rovinj and is an easy walk up the hill. One thing to add to your Croatia to-do list is to climb the tower for the best view of the city or catch your photo op from the port of Valdibora at sunset.

Tips for Visiting Rovinj

• When you visit the St. Euphemia church, don’t miss out on seeing the sarcophagus behind the altar in which the relics of St. Euphemia are kept.
• From the outside, look up and you’ll see the statue of St. Euphemia on the top of the bell tower, which revolves on its axis with the wind. 

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9. Chase Waterfalls at Krka National Park 

Wondering about the best places to go, Croatia has numerous outstanding national parks. A visit to Krka National Park is a must for any Croatia bucket list.

Located outside the city of Šibenik, Croatia, the 109+ km² protected area is named after the Krka River which flows through the region. 

The lower portion of the Čikola River also winds its way through the park. The park is home to some of the largest quantities of lavender in Europe, and more than 800 other types of flowers, trees, and plants can be found here.

Aside from the famed lavender, there are also several preserved landmarks within the park. These include the remains of the Krka Hydropower Plant, the Franciscan Monastery of Our Lady of Mercy on Visovac Island, and the Krka Monastery – basically plenty of things to add to your Croatia list. 

However, when you visit Krka, you’re coming to see the stunning waterfalls. Along with Plitvice Lakes National Park, Krka National Park has some truly magnificent lakes and waterfalls throughout.

Tips for visiting Krka National Park

• Skradinski Buk is the longest and most popular waterfall to visit. So arrive early to avoid the majority of the crowds. It’s easily accessible from the Lozovac entrance into the park. You can get up close by walking along the designated paths over the water.
• If you’re looking for something more energetic and enjoy hiking or biking, then explore more of the park, there are more than 22 marked walking trails and 470 kilometres of biking trails through Krka. Here you’ll find some of the best outdoor activities Croatia offers.
• Krka National Park is one of the best things to do in Croatia, especially for nature lovers and waterfall chasers.

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10. The Old Town of Korcula – ‘Mini Dubrovnik’

Korcula Town, often affectionately called mini-Dubrovnik should be on everyone’s Croatia bucket list itinerary. Encircled by ancient walls, Korcula town is located in the centre of Korcula island. It is also believed to be the birthplace of the famous explorer Marco Polo.

Even though the town is relatively small with few attractions to visit, it makes a great getaway destination from overcrowded Croatian cities.

During the summer months, you can enjoy pristine waters and sandy beaches with a scenic fortified town in the background. Korcula is certainly a must-see in Croatia. 

One of the top things to do in Korcula is to visit Marco Polo’s house and his museum to learn more about his life and adventures around the globe. Afterwards, wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and pay attention to the architecture before you climb the steep stairs to the Bell Tower for some sweeping views of the town and the Adriatic Sea. 

In the evening, sit down at the outdoor cafe to indulge in Croatian cuisine and try local wine called Grk made from the white grape variety of the same name. Something you must do in Croatia and if visiting wineries is your passion is to take a day trip to Lumbarda, where the grapes that make the local wine are grown. 

Tips for visiting Korcula

• It’s easy to get to Korcula town from any central city in Croatia. Daily ferries are running from Split, Dubrovnik, and the nearby islands of Brac and Hvar.
• Korcula is also a great place to base yourself on more Croatia island hopping.
• During the peak seasons, ferries even run twice a day. However, in the shoulder or low season, check the ferry schedule in advance. 

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11. The Island of Vis

Naturally, one of the best places to go in Croatia is the islands. With more than 1000 of them along the coastline, you are spoiled for choice.

After sightseeing in Hvar, take a ferry to Vis. This is the farthest inhabited island in the Adriatic Sea.

Between 1950 and 1989, Vis Island served as the Yugoslav National Army’s base and was off-limits to foreign visitors. Roll on to today, and you’ll find the island has an authentically rustic feel to it.

For the more active and adventurous traveller, there are some great cycling routes which are popular on the island.

Also, because of this unique history, Vis Island has many interesting spots that can be visited as part of a Military tour. The Military Tour includes a visit to a nuclear bunker, which is highly recommended if you are not claustrophobic!

Tips for visiting Vis Island

• Vis doesn’t have a direct ferry route from either Split or Dubrovnik, you have to go from Hvar. Once on the island stay in either Komiza village or in Vis town.
• There’s enough to do here for at least a couple of days. Enjoy the laid-back island life on the beautiful pristine beaches and eat at the waterfront restaurants.
• For the best views across Vis island, go right on top of Mount Hum. Go early in the day or late in the afternoon when the light is less harsh. You will thank me later for the panoramic vista!

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12. Stari Grad

Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, is a historical gem nestled on the island of Hvar. Its charm lies in the fascinating proximity of the azure bay and the lush greenery of the renowned Pharos field, adorned with vineyards and olive groves. 

Serving as a safe haven for sailors throughout history, Stari Grad’s harbour promenade continues to welcome travellers passing through middle Dalmatia. The town’s idyllic setting, enveloped by pine forests and cooled by gentle summer breezes, offers a rare respite and a refreshing escape. 

Explore the narrow streets and charming squares of the old town, where the whispers of the past echo through the centuries-old monuments. The town also features beautifully renewed stone houses that provide a seamless fusion of history and modern comforts.  

From the Austro-Hungarian-era buildings along the bay to the charming residential area of “Boric,” Stari Grad showcases a harmonious fusion of cultural heritage and natural splendour. 

Tips for Visiting Stari Grad

• When visiting Stari Grad, make sure you allow enough time to explore the charming streets and soak up the history that runs through the city walls.
• Indulge in the local cuisine at traditional taverns and explore the vineyards and olive groves that dot the landscape. 
• Rent a bike to explore the picturesque countryside or simply unwind in the town’s tranquil ambience. 

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13. Lošinj – The Island of Vitality

The off-the-beaten-track island of Lošinj is away from the main tourist trail, mostly because it can be a bit of a challenge to get to if you don’t have your own transportation. However, it’s 100% worth the effort. 

If you don’t have a car, then the Rhythm of the Senses tour is a great option, as they provide transportation to the island from mainland Croatia.

The island is located in the northern part of Croatia in the Adriatic Sea. It’s known as the Island of Vitality, thanks to its abundance of herbs and vegetation that grow naturally on the island. All year round the air is filled with the scent of lavender, sage, pine, mint and more.

The towns in Losinj are simply adorable and have changed very little for hundreds of years. There’s a real push for eco-tourism on the island with activities like plant awareness tours and hiking and walking in the stunning Croatian countryside, cycling is also a big sport here.

There are plenty of things to do in Losinj. In the main town of Mali Lošinj, you’ll find The Museum of Apoxyomenos. This award-winning museum is home to a nearly complete 1st century B.C. bronze statue of a Roman athlete, recovered from the sea just off the shore of the island. 

In the waters surrounding the island, there are several colonies of bottle-nosed dolphins. The Blue World run tours daily from the harbour of Mali Losinj, they encourage the passive interaction of dolphins and actively campaign to protect their ecosystem. If you’re looking for Croatia hidden gems, Losinj is it! 

Tips for visiting Lošinj

• Go with your own transport whether it’s a bicycle, campervan, car or motorbike. Lošinj is difficult to get around, there isn’t much in the way of a bus service, only a taxi.
• Lošinj has two ferry ports Mali Losinj and Mrtvaska. Connections sail between smaller islands surrounding Croatia as well as mainland towns including Rijeka, Pula and Zadar. There are also connections from Italy.

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14. Lokrum Island and Sunset Kayaking

If you’re visiting the south of the country, then I highly recommend adding Lokrum Island to your Croatia itinerary. The island is just a stone’s throw from the stunning city of Dubrovnik So close, in fact, you could even row a boat over the mere 600 metres or catch one of the quick 15-minute ferry boats from the port.

A great way to see the island, as well as the city of Dubrovnik, is at sunset on a kayak while viewing from the surrounding coves. This is one of the best things to do in Croatia in Summer, during the intense heat.

Lokrum Island itself is a great place to head to find shade. The whole island is a nature reserve, covered with plenty of shaded walkways and places to sit and relax under the gigantic and fragrant pine, olive and cypress trees.

As you wander around, you’ll find colonies of friendly rabbits that will come and eat out of your hands. Although you could see most of the highlights of the island in a whirlwind, you could make this into an easy day trip from Dubrovnik and whittle away a whole day here. There are ample sunbathing spots, including a nudist beach! 

Lokrum Island was used in Game of Thrones, so you’ll find references to this dotted about. The museum under the Monastery houses a giant throne from the series.

Tips for visiting Lokrum Island

• There are a few small eateries on the island, but if you’re planning on spending a whole day here I recommend taking a packed lunch.
• When you’re buying your ferry ticket, most of the vendors at the Old Dubrovnik Harbour will try and sell you a full tour of several islands instead of just the ferry transfer. They are quite sneaky and even pushy about this – be sure to ask for just the 15-minute ferry transfer ticket.
• There are only a handful of buildings on Lokrum Island, the first you will see is a cute little cottage at the entrance. This is also where the ferry boat docks and departs.

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15. Sibenik Old Town

Arguably one of the most visually stunning destinations in Croatia is Sibenik. It’s one of the most historical and charming cities in Dalmatia and conveniently located right on the coast.

Of course, you’ll feel the draw of the gorgeous blue Adriatic Sea, but peel yourself away from the water to explore Sibenik. You’re guaranteed to fall in love with Sibenik’s Old Town, especially if you enjoy history. 

The Old Town starts at the Square of the Croatian Republic (Trg Republike Hrvatske) where the top landmark is located: St. James Cathedral. This UNESCO-listed masterpiece from the 15th century cannot be missed even if you tried as it dominates the square.

The cathedral combines the original Renaissance style with Gothic features. White and clean on the outside, it becomes strikingly more Gothic the moment you enter.

Interlocking stone slabs were used for its construction, even for the Cathedral’s dome. The architect, George the Dalmatian created his magnum opus using techniques he learned during his studies in Venice. Quite fittingly, a statue of him stands right next to the Cathedral, so he can keep an eye on it forever.

Other things to see in Sibenik Old Town are the beautiful stone-tiled areas and squares that are home to several small picturesque churches. Look out for the Church of Saint Barbara and the Church of Saint John, both are worth a visit.

Tips for Visiting Sibenik

• For one of the best views of the city, find the stairs that lead up to St. Michael’s Fortress. This is the lowest one of three fortresses in the city and marks the northern edge of the Old Town. From here there are wonderful views of the Cathedral and the sea below from it.
• Like with lots of places in Croatia, any Game of Thrones fans will also Sibenik since many scenes of the first season were shot in the town.

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16. Canyoning in the Cetina Canyon

If you’re an adrenalin junkie, then canyoning in the Cetina Canyon needs to appear somewhere on your Croatia Bucket List.

The turquoise waters of the Cetina River meander between the steep cliffs of the Cetina Canyon, making it an ideal place for white water rafting, climbing, and kayaking. Although all three of those are great fun, if you want more variety in your day, then opt for canyoning. 

If you’re not sure what Canyoning is, it’s a combination of walking, swimming or floating down the river and jumping off low cliff edges.

It also involves cascading down natural water chutes and slides. Sometimes you even get to rappel down a waterfall! Basically, it’s a fully immersive experience and guaranteed to get the adrenalin pumping.

Tips for Visiting the Cetina Canyon

• If you do have a fear of heights and the idea of jumping off cliffs fills you with dread, there are often easier options.
• You’ll be supplied with all the necessary safety gear like helmets and a life vest.
• Leave your phone, watches and jewellery at home. You’re going to get very wet and most likely stuff like that will get lost or damaged.
• Use a helmet or body-mounted action camera so you have your hands free.

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17. Discover the Hidden Shipwreck Cove

If you’re travelling in Croatia, you need to add the hidden shipwreck lagoon to your bucket list. This is one of the most unique things to do in Croatia, as this cove is not very well known, although daily tours are arranged to it from nearby towns. 

The cove is found near the pretty town of Jablanac, in the northwest of the country. There is parking nearby and, if you’re motor homing or camper vanning in Croatia, there is a great overnight spot just up the hill.

Once parked, walk to the harbour of Jablanac, put the sea on your right and start walking out of the town. You’ll see the path around the cliff just as the harbour ends; take this. It’s fairly flat and gravelled, it is a good 20-minute walk, although this is accompanied by fabulous views, so it will probably take you longer. 

You’ll pass through a couple of small tunnels and then suddenly emerge into the hidden cove. Because of its secluded location, this is one of the most cool places in Croatia.

As you walk further into the cove, you’ll see the shipwreck close to the surface of the water. This is an old WW2 German ship that sunk during a storm. This is certainly one of Croatia’s hidden gems.

Tips for visiting the Hidden Shipwreck Cove

• Usually, there is a small charge to spend time here, however, the man in the payment cabin goes home between 5 and 5.30. If you’re lucky enough to arrive after charging hours, you can enjoy a long time here without spending anything making it one of the top free things to do in Croatia.
• There are no toilets or facilities, so make sure you bring everything you need with you. 

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18. Zadar Promenade: The Sea Organ and Sun Salutation

Croatia is a fantastic place to explore, with so many incredible places to visit. The problem is, that can easily mean you miss something!

One of the most popular places in Croatia is the waterfront city of Zadar. If you’re heading to Zadar, which you should, because it’s beautiful, then make sure you take the time to visit the unique and slightly quirky Zadar Sea Organ and Sun Salutation monuments.

This ‘Sea Organ’ is built into the stone steps around the side of the harbour. As the waves lap against the stone, they cause different pressures to be sent down tiny tubes, which then cause a sound to be emitted from holes at the top of the steps- causing it to play exactly like an organ. The sound is subtle, and you won’t need earplugs, but it’s incredibly relaxing. 

Tips for Visiting Zadar

• It’s free to experience the Sea Organ and a great place to visit, especially if you’re with children where you can enjoy the warm sea breeze.
• You can spend several hours sitting on the steps listening to music, eating ice cream and watching the city move around you.
• There’s plenty of parking in Zadar and if you’re motorcycling in Croatia, you can enjoy free parking, so take the time to explore the other attractions of the city before you leave. 

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19. Island Hop and Visit the Odysseus Cave and Blue Cave

With so many islands surrounding the country, it’s no surprise that island hopping is up there with the top things to do in Croatia.

If you’re a fan of beaches, caves and snorkelling, then take a day tour that visits several islands, caves and beaches with ample spots to snorkel. The Odysseus Cave is a great destination if you’re looking to do easy day trips from Dubrovnik.

Two of the most beautiful caves are the Odysseus Cave with its pristine blue water making it perfect for snorkelling and spotting fish. There’s also the Blue Cave of Kolocep which features the blue waters reflecting and glistening off the walls of the cave, giving it a blueish hue. 

This is also a good place, if you can, to try to visit either Šipan island, one of the Elaphiti Islands, or even Blace Beach. 

Tips for visiting Sea Caves in Croatia

• The best way to see the islands in the shortest space of time is to book a speed boat tour from Dubrovnik.  
• Although you can hire snorkel equipment, it’s not always the best quality. If you’re planning on doing a bit of snorkelling in Croatia, which I highly recommend because the water is stunning – then it’s better to invest in your own mask and snorkel set. 
• Wear sunscreen and lots of it. It’s easy to get sunburnt. I also suggest taking a lightweight shirt for on the boat too, the breeze can feel quite chilly.

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20. Makarska for Adventure Sport, National Parks & Beaches

Makarska is a picturesque town and beach resort, located at the foot of the Biokovo Mountain range. It is part of the Makarska Riviera, a stunning coastline along the Dalmatian coast in Croatia.

Besides beautiful beaches and a pretty city centre, the area offers activities such as hiking and mountain biking, which makes it the best place in Croatia for outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the best things to do in Makarska town is to stroll around the waterfront promenade, explore the streets of the centre, and visit the little church of Katedrala St. Marko. The centre is a maze of little streets with so many restaurants and bars, that it is hard to choose from. 

It is also worth going for a short walk to the St Peter monument, on the other side of the bay. Especially in the evening, you have a beautiful view of Makarska, with hundreds of lights.

If adventure sport isn’t your thing, then Makarska is also famous for its surrounding beaches, you’ll have no shortage to choose from. The closest beach to the town centre is the 1500-meter-long city beach, situated in Donja Luka Bay, about a 10-minute walk. 

Tips For Visiting Makarska

• If you’re after a quieter beach, then visit the one in the Osejava Forest Park. It’s called Nugal Beach. Here, you’ll find high rocks, pine forests and incredible colours of blue and green. Because it can only be reached by a short hike it’s less busy than Donja Luka Bay.
• If you have longer in the area, then make sure you visit the Biokovo Nature Park. Here you’ll find an abundance of hiking and cycling possibilities. 
• Don’t feel like hiking? Then you can drive up to the Biokovo skywalk, a glass-floored, viewing deck on the edge of a mountain, with incredible views. You won’t find a better place to take pictures of the Dalmatian coast!

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21. Explore Klis Fortress

If you’re wondering what to see in Croatia and you’re interested in hidden gems, then you’ll love this idea. Located near Split, Klis Fortress is one of those landmarks that are perfect for curious traveller who wants to get off the beaten track.

The historic records of Klis date back to the second century BC, when the area was settled by the Illyrian tribe called Delmati who built this fortress. The fortress is perched above the village of Klis, about 20 minutes north of Split and provides incredible panoramic views of Split and surrounding areas.

Although this landmark is popular with domestic tourists, in recent years, it’s relatively unvisited by foreign tourists. However, it’s gained popularity recently thanks to Game of Thrones. Scenes featuring the characters Meereen and Daenerys were filmed here in 2014.

Despite this, this fortress still sees surprisingly few visitors, perhaps due to its location away from the Old Town of Split and it’s still a wonderful historic landmark and a hidden gem without hordes of tourists.

Regardless of whether you are a die-hard Games of Thrones fan visiting this fortress for this reason, or a nature or history buff looking to get a glimpse into Croatia’s history, you will love this place.

Tips for visiting Klis Fortress

• If you have a car, then it’s an easy drive from Split to Klis Fortress and could be added in as a great stop on a road trip around the region. If you don’t have your own transportation, then you can get there by bus.
• Klis Fortress is open every day from 8:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Always make sure to check the exact hours ahead of your visit to check for any changes to the opening hours. 

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22. Zagreb, The Capital of Croatia & Mirogoj Cemetery

One of the top things to do in Croatia, naturally, is to visit the nation’s capital. 

And, though it’s by no means on the well-beaten tourist trail, the historic Mirogoj Cemetery (Groblje Mirogoj) in Zagreb is more than worthy of a place on your Croatia bucket list

Set on the northern outskirts of the city, Mirogoj is a hauntingly beautiful national landmark. It was constructed between 1876 and 1929 and is considered one of Croatia’s finest examples of Neoclassical architecture.

Designed by German architect Herman Bolle, the complex consists of open green spaces and rows of Italian-style arcades, interspersed with pavilions, domes and small chapels.

Some of Croatia’s most illustrious artists, writers, scientists and politicians (of every ethnicity and creed) have been laid to rest in Mirogoj over the years. For this reason, it’s considered the national pantheon and certainly one of the best places in Croatia for anyone interested in cultural history.

As you walk under the walls of ivy amongst sweet sculptures and crumbling columns, you feel transported to another world. 

Tips for Visiting Zagreb

• If you’re visiting Zagreb in the winter months, you’ll likely have the cemetery all to yourself, which only heightens the atmosphere.
• This is an active cemetery and should be approached with respect, but rest assured it’s commonplace for visitors to wander the grounds and admire the heritage architecture. 
• Photography is permitted. Mirogoj is free to enter and can be reached by city bus from the Kaptol district in around 30 minutes.

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23. Zadar’s Ancient City Walls

One of the must-see places in Croatia is the historical city centre of Zadar. It’s stunning, with its cobbled streets, medieval squares, and even a Roman forum dating back to the 3rd century.

About half of the old town is surrounded by old city walls, which are actually on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The walls were built between the 12th and 13th centuries and were impenetrable, defending the city against attackers.

Within the walls, you can still see some of the old city gates. The most beautiful gate is undoubtedly The Land Gate, which was built in 1543. It used to be the official entrance to the city.

Nowadays, the walls are mostly used as a park and you’ll find locals and tourists relaxing and enjoying the shade of the trees. 

Tips for visiting Zadar

• Look out for the motif on the Land Gate. In the centre of this gate, you can see a statue of the winged lion of Saint Mark. This is the symbol of Venice and it relic from the old days when Zadar used to be part of the Republic of Venice. Other gates are the Sea Gate and the New Gate.
• If you want to find out more about the history, then on the eastern side of the old town, there’s a big promenade on the walls. Here you can find information panels about the history of the city walls.

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24. The UNESCO City of Trogir and the Cathedral of St Lawrence

Croatia hosts an abundance of UNESCO landmarks and the city of Trogir is one of them. In the heart of the city, you’ll find Trogir Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of St. Lawrence. It’s a Roman Catholic Cathedral. It was constructed in Romanesque-Gothic, in Trogir and features loads of carvings and statues.

It’s also not only a Cathedral but also a Basilica, which is a title of honour given to religious buildings that hold a certain status of importance. This can include being an important international pilgrimage and worship place or being known for its antiquity.

The building is a very important monument in Trogir and was given the World Heritage Site title in 1997.

There are numerous things to do in Trogir. One of the must-see places is the UNESCO World Heritage Centre contained within medieval walls. The history of the city dates back 2300 years.

Tips for visiting Trogir

• Aside from the historical landmarks, Trogir has a bustling array of boutique shops and cafes as well as some pretty impressive stone palaces.
• Allow plenty of time to peruse, the architecture in the city is outstanding. 
• For the best views over the city, climb to the top of the Cathedral, which is 150 feet tall, to see the light-coloured building with its red roofs gleaming in the sun.

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25. The Walls of Ston

The defensive Walls of Ston originally consisted of over 7km of stonework. Today about 5km of the walls still stand and surround the town.

Construction on the walls started in the mid-1300s, and although not all of it survives to this day, it’s still one of the longest and most well-preserved defence walls in the world.

At the time of completion in the 1500s, the wall consisted of 40 towers and 5 fortresses. Today 20 of these towers survive dotted along with the pentagonal-shaped structure.

You can walk along sections of Stons’ Walls which undulate up the hillside. The views from the uppermost section of the wall look down over the salt mines and muscle farms.

Tips for Visiting Ston

• The walls undulate with the hillside, so wear a good pair of walking shoes with grippy soles. There is a handrail, but some of the routes can be a little uneven in places.
• The best views of the city of Ston are from the top. So you’ll be rewarded for your legwork getting up there.
• If you don’t want to stay in Ston (it’s quite a small town) then it’s an easy day trip from Dubrovnik. 

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26. The Artisan Town of Groznjan

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-track places to see in Croatia, you’ll love Groznjan. Grožnjan is a small town with just 150 inhabitants, located on the peninsula Istria in the northwest part of Croatia. It’s just half an hour’s ride from coastal cities Umag and Novigrad. 

From a position on top of the hill, you can experience the best views of the area with surrounding olive groves and vineyards. 

This walled town has a long history. There were Ancient Romans, later the Venetian Republic. Austro-Hungarian Empire, Yugoslavia, and today modern Croatia.

The most remarkable building inside the walls is an 18th-century Church of St. Vid, Modest, and Krešencije with a 36-meter-high bell tower that dominates the valley. 

The town is famous for its population of artists. In the ’60s, this almost ghost town was slowly taken over by artists who started squatting in empty houses. Today there are 20 galleries and art events. Groznjan is certainly one of Croatia’s hidden gems.

Tips for Visiting Groznjan

• Spend some time walking along the cobbled streets while enjoying art exhibitions, music, and some local wine.
• If you have a sweet tooth, then try one of the sweet local pastries called fritule.
• If you’re wondering what to do in Croatia in September, and you’re in the area, then your trip will coincide with the annual painting festival, the Ex Tempore. If you visit in the second half of July, then you’ll be able to experience the jazz festival: Jazz is Back. 

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27. Party at Zcre Beach, Novalja

If you’re after somewhere with an abundance of things to see and do in Croatia, head to Novalja. There is no doubt that Croatia is a beautiful country, but did you know that it is also a hub for many international and world-class music festivals? 

Novalja in Croatia is a music hot spot with revellers travelling far and wide to see their favourite DJs and artists. Novalja is a district found in Pag, on the Adriatic part of the Croatian Sea. 

While this area is still a popular holiday destination, for festival-goers, the place to be is at Zrce Beach close by. Like a lot of other beaches in Croatia, Zcre is a pebble beach, it’s approximately 2km long. 

In peak summer months, the Zcre coastline is alive with different events that cater to all types of musical tastes. Residence to 3 super clubs; Aquarius, Kalypso and Papaya, you can see why the location is so prominent. Expect lights, smoke machines, lasers and pool parties, just to name a few. 

When you’re not partying on Zcre Beach, Novalja itself is an attractive town with several shops, bars and restaurants. There are also several fun water activities you can enjoy. If you’re someone who enjoys music festivals, add Zcre Beach to your Croatia bucket list.

Tips for visiting Zcre Beach

• A money-saving tip is to go into the beach bars and food places across from the clubs. Here you’ll be able to get a table and relax while still enjoying the music without actually buying a ticket! 
• There are numerous music festivals in the summer months, which tend to start at the end of May. However, if you’re looking for things to do in Croatia in June and July and festivals are your thing, then certainly put Zcre on your radar. 

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Best Things to Do in Croatia – FAQs

We’ve covered a ton of the best things to do in Croatia. As you’ve just read it’s a county packed with outstanding points of interest. If you’re in the stages of planning your trip, this next section has some useful travel tips as well as answers to questions you may have. 

So, What’s on Your Croatia Bucket List?

If you’ve made it to the end of this ultimate Croatian bucket list, well done! So now the question begs, where to visit in Croatia? there’s so much choice!

How many of these outstanding things have you done? And how many are you adding to your Croatia travel itinerary?

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia, and looking for more Croatia vacation ideas, then take a look at these other useful articles…

• The Best 2 Day Dubrovnik Itinerary
• 16 Easy Day trips from Dubrovnik
• Best Multi-Day Small Group Tours from Dubrovnik