Wondering what to put on your Croatia bucket list? Here’s the perfect list!
Croatia has quickly become one of the most visited European destinations, and there are many reasons why! Although quite small, with only around 4 million inhabitants, it’s incredible how much Croatia actually has to offer. As a native Croatian, I want to help you choose the best experiences you could have in Croatia.
This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you.
No matter if you’re a nature lover, a history buff, an enthusiastic foodie, or an island hopper, this small country has all of it. That’s why it can be quite hard to boil down what exactly you can or cannot miss in Croatia.
Here’s a list of activities in Croatia you really need to check out if you want incredible experiences you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Let’s start!
WHERE IS CROATIA?
Croatia is a country located in southeastern Europe, sharing borders with countries such as Slovenia and Hungary. Croatia also has a long coastline along the Adriatic Sea to the west, sharing it with Italy.
The capital and largest city of Croatia is Zagreb. Although Zagreb is the capital, Croatia’s most popular cities are Split and Dubrovnik. If you’re on your way to Croatia, you’ll surely visit one of them at least.
WHEN SHOULD YOU VISIT CROATIA?
Depending on what you expect from your visit, different times will give you different experiences.
Summer (June to August) is the high tourist season when the weather is warm and the Adriatic Sea is ideal for swimming and water activities. On top of that, coastal towns and islands are vibrant with events and festivals. This is the best time to visit if you want to experience a true Croatian summer with lots of swimming, sunbathing, and going out. Keep in mind that this is also the most crowded and most expensive time to visit Croatia, and that if you don’t like crowds, it could be overwhelming.
Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) are shoulder seasons. They offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation. The temperatures are still warm, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the peak-season crowds. This would probably be the best time to explore the country, but it might not be for you if you’re planning some water activities as the sea could be colder.
The sea is much warmer in September and October than April and May, so plan accordingly if you’re visiting in the shoulder seasons.
WHY SHOULD YOU VISIT CROATIA?
Stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture make Croatia a popular tourist destination. Croatia’s coast line is breathtaking, with numerous picturesque islands. Croatia’s pride and joy – the Dalmatian Coast will captivate you with crystal-clear waters, charming fishing villages, and historic towns.
Croatia has a rich history that is reflected in its well-preserved historic sites, many of them in cities like Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Korčula. On top of that, Croatia is also blessed with several stunning national parks you’ll definitely want to visit. The most popular ones are Plitvice Lakes, Krka, Mljet, and Brijuni.
In addition to all that natural beauty, Croatian cuisine is exceptional, with influences from Mediterranean, Italian, Hungarian, and Balkan culinary traditions. No matter if you want delicious seafood, fresh local produce, or any of the traditional dishes, you will eat well in Croatia.
If you need any more persuading, the locals are friendly, the country is extremely safe, and it’s very well connected between the various cities and islands.
ULTIMATE CROATIA BUCKET LIST EXPERIENCES:
Here’s a list of the top 15 experiences you should put on your Croatia bucket list this year!
Explore Plitvice Lakes
This stunning location is surely on your bucket list. Plitvice Lakes are Croatia’s most popular and most beautiful national park. Comprised of 16 lakes divided into Upper and Lower lakes, Plitvice Lakes look like something out of a fairytale.
You can easily reach Plitvice by car from Zagreb (2h) or Split (2.5h), and this national park is a perfect day trip from many coastal towns. If you don’t have a car, you can book a tour on GetYourGuide, they usually start in Zagreb, Split, or Trogir.
The entrance tickets are 40 euros per person (25 euros for students and 15 for children). While indeed pricey, this is something you’ll only see here in Croatia, so it’s really worth every cent. You’ll need at least 3-4 hours to explore the national park. If you have more time, you can even stay at one of the hotels there and explore the national parks in 2 days. Read our complete guide for visiting Plitvice Lakes for more information.
Listen to the unique Sea Organ in Zadar
Zadar is one of the calmer coastal towns in Croatia, but still incredibly beautiful and historical. Zadar is home to the most unique musical instrument in the world – the Sea Organ. The Sea Organ is situated on the city’s waterfront, near the western end of the Zadar peninsula.
Designed by the Croatian architect Nikola Bašić, the Sea Organ is a musical instrument that plays music by way of sea waves and tubes located beneath a set of large marble steps. In short, the Sea Organ turns the natural rhythms of the Adriatic Sea into an ever-changing, melodic concert.
The Sea Organ is so fascinating and unique that it has become a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. If you find yourself in Zadar during sunset, Sea Organ is the best place to be to see the perfect sunset accompanied by some incredible music.
Visit Hvar
Hvar is a beautiful Croatian island located in the Adriatic Sea, and it is probably the most popular destination for tourists after Dubrovnik. The island’s main town, Hvar Town, is rich in history and has incredible old town absolutely worth visiting. Hvar Cathedral, the Franciscan Monastery, and the historic Hvar Theatre are only some of the key landmarks on Hvar.
If you want to get out of town and explore the island itself, Hvar is famous for its lavender fields. If you visit during the summer, you’ll enjoy the beauty and fragrance of blooming lavender, which can always be a great souvenir to take home!
Hvar is also known for its lively nightlife, especially in Hvar Town. The town has numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties, making it a popular destination for those looking to enjoy a good party. One of the most popular Beach bars/clubs is Carpe Diem.
Walk Dubrovnik’s City Walls
Dubrovnik is on everyone’s bucket list, and the reason why is obvious. With gorgeous City Walls, red rooftops, and crystal-clear sea, Dubrovnik is a dream holiday destination. While there, visiting the Dubrovnik City Walls is a must-do activity. The City Walls are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a symbol of Dubrovnik’s cultural heritage.
The walls offer unparalleled panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, the historic Old Town, red-tiled rooftops, and the surrounding landscapes. They also offer breathtaking photo opportunities. Wherever you stop along the walls, the scenery will be perfect. The entrance ticket to the City Walls is 35 euros per person, and it’s absolutely worth the money. Here’s a complete guide to Dubrovnik’s City Walls!
Read more >>> Ultimate Dubrovnik travel guide 2025
Taste Truffles and Wine in Istria
Istria is one of the most beautiful regions of Croatia. The majority of this stunning peninsula belongs to Croatia, while a small part of it belongs to Slovenia. Both locals and tourists love Istria for its charming small towns and perfectly blue sea. Some of the more popular towns in Istria are Rovinj, Pula, Rijeka, and Opatija.
Istria is, besides its beauty, famous for its culinary offerings, including truffles and wines. This is an experience you really can’t miss, especially if you’re a foodie!
Istria is home to both white and black truffles. White truffles are typically found in the Motovun Forest, while black truffles can be found all over Istria. If you’re an adventurer, consider participating in a truffle hunting experience. You can join a truffle hunter and his trained dogs in the search for truffles.
If you’re not into truffles, you can always taste Istrian delicious wine. Istria has a thriving wine culture with a variety of local grape varieties. You can explore local wineries in Istria, where you can participate in guided wine tastings. The most famous winery in Istria is the Meneghetti Wine Hotel and Winery. You can stay at this 5-star hotel with some of the most incredible wine in Croatia!
Kayak around Lokrum Island
Right next to Dubrovnik, there’s a lovely island named Lokrum. Kayaking from Dubrovnik to Lokrum is a popular activity, because it gives you a unique perspective of the breathtaking coastline and the island of Lokrum.
The distance from Dubrovnik to Lokrum is relatively short, which means it’s an easy kayaking trip for those with some paddling experience. Typically, it’s around 600 meters (0.37 miles) from the Old Town to Lokrum, which usually ends up being a 3-hour tour with stops for swimming.
Various kayak rental companies operate in Dubrovnik, offering single and double kayaks, so you can either go alone or in pairs. You can rent a kayak and go kayaking on your own, but if you’re new to kayaking or prefer a guided experience, you can join organized kayak tours. These tours often include equipment rental, safety briefings, and guided paddling to Lokrum and other nearby locations. The guided tours usually start at around 30 euros per person.
Visit Zrmanja Canyon
The Zrmanja Canyon is a stunning river canyon in Dalmatia. The canyon is situated near the town of Obrovac, fairly close to Zadar. The Zrmanja River flows through this canyon, creating a picturesque and scenic landscape which is definitely one of the best views in Croatia.
While most people only come to look at the incredible scenery, there are other activities you can do on Zrmanja River. One of the popular activities in the Zrmanja Canyon is river rafting. The river offers various levels of difficulty, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
Kayaking is another way to explore the Zrmanja River, allowing for a more intimate experience with the river’s flow and the surrounding nature. Whatever you choose, this half-day trip will surely be memorable!
Walk over the Biokovo Skywalk
If you’re staying in or around Makarska, this could be an unforgettable day trip for you! The Biokovo Skywalk is a glass-floored platform located on the Biokovo mountain range in Croatia.
This attraction offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including the Adriatic Sea, islands, and the Makarska Riviera.
The main feature of the Skywalk is its glass-floored platform that extends out over the edge of the mountain. This design allows you to experience the feeling of floating above the landscape and enjoy unobstructed views. Keep in mind that for the best view you should come on a clear day!
The ticket for this attraction is 8 euros and you can buy them only ONLINE. The road leading to the Skywalk is also very narrow, so make sure you’re a good driver!
Marvel at the Ston city walls
Ston is a small town on the Pelješac Peninsula in Croatia, and it is known for its historic city walls and its connection to oyster farming. It’s less than an hour away from Dubrovnik, so it’s a perfect half-day trip.
Ston has the second-longest preserved city walls in the world, second only to the Great Wall of China. The walls are approximately 5.5 kilometers long and built in the 14th century. Although they’re not as visually appealing as Dubrovnik’s, these walls are still worth exploring, and you can do so for only 10 euros!
Mali Ston Bay is home to some of the freshest oysters in Croatia. There are several oyster farms there and you can taste fresh oysters harvested directly from the bay. The oysters are delicious and definitely a must-do for anyone who likes seafood!
Play basketball in Dubrovnik
If you like sports, playing on this insane basketball court might be the ultimate bucket list experience in Croatia. The stunning court is situated within the city walls of Dubrovnik, and it offers one of the best free views of the red rooftops of Dubrovnik!
Along with that, it’s unusually shaped, so it will definitely be a fun experience you’ll remember forever. You can get to the court easily and completely for free!
Ride bikes at Brijuni National Park
Brijuni National Park is one of the most serene and beautiful national parks in Croatia. Located off the coast of Istria in the Adriatic Sea, Brijuni NP is a perfect blend of natural beauty, historical sites, and diverse flora and fauna.
The most popular attraction at Brijuni NP is the Safari Park, a place where you can see a variety of exotic animals, including zebras, elephants, llamas, and more. The park aims to recreate the atmosphere of a safari experience, and it does it amazingly.
Read more >>> BRIJUNI NP GUIDE
The best way to experience Brijuni National Park is by cycling through it. The islands have well-marked cycling paths, which allow you to explore the natural beauty and historical sites at your own pace. Bikes are available for rent as you get off the ferry for 7 euros per hour. While it might be pricey for some, it will definitely be an experience to remember.
Take a swim at Zlatni Rat beach
Zlatni Rat, often referred to as the Golden Horn or Golden Cape, is a famous beach located near the town of Bol on the island of Brac in Croatia. You can easily reach the beach from Split or Hvar by ferry or boat tours.
Zlatni Rat is unique for its distinctive shape. The beach extends into the Adriatic Sea like a narrow, white pebble tongue, and its shape changes depending on the wind and sea currents. Because of that it’s one of the most iconic and photographed beaches in Croatia.
Zlatni Rat is also an excellent spot for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. Since it’s a popular destination, arrive early if you want to secure a good spot on the beach.
Go back in time in Grožnjan
Grožnjan is one of the cutest hidden gems you can visit in Istria. It’s a small town in the heart of the Istrian peninsula. It’s known for its charm, artistic atmosphere, and historical significance.
Grožnjan is home to many narrow cobblestone streets, stone houses, and charming squares. It truly makes you feel as if you stepped into a fairy tale. The town was influenced by the Venetians during different periods of history and the influence is visible in the town’s architecture.
The serene atmosphere, combined with the artistic and cultural vibes, makes it an ideal place for relaxation and exploration. You can easily reach it by car from any part of Istria, and it’s the most magical half-day trip you could take on the gorgeous peninsula.
Have dinner at Panorama Restaurant
One of my absolute favourite bucket list experiences is dinner at Panorama Restaurant in Dubrovnik. This gorgeous restaurant is located on Mount Srđ, a mountain near Dubrovnik with some of the most stunning panoramic views of Croatia’s prettiest town.
Panorama Restaurant offers dining with incredible views of the Dubrovnik’s Old Town, and it’s especially enchanting during sunset. The restaurant has excellent food and it’s quite affordable for the insane view you get.
If this is something you’d like to do, book your table as soon as possible, since the best seats get reserved 3 months in advance!
Go island hopping
Island hopping in Croatia is a popular and highly recommended way to explore the diverse beauty of the Adriatic Sea and Croatia’s many islands. The Croatian coast includes over a thousand islands, each offering its own unique charm, landscapes, and cultural experiences. Knowing that, it can be quite challenging choosing which islands you want to visit.
Read more >>> ISLAND HOPPING FROM SPLIT: GUIDE
There are a few popular ways to explore the islands in Croatia.
First is Sail Croatia. Sail Croatia is a renowned sailing company that provides diverse itineraries for exploring numerous Croatian islands. They offer “party cruises” which are extremely loved by young tourists wanting to explore Croatia. They stop at some of the most popular islands and usually sail out of Split or Dubrovnik.
Another option are the ferries. They are a common mode of transportation between the islands and the mainland, and are usually moderately priced. Larger islands often have ferry connections multiple times a day and from most towns around them. This could be the perfect way of exploring if you’re on a budget and like to organize everything yourself.
The third option is renting a private boat tour. This one is obviously for the ones with a bigger budget, but it combines the two above where you can choose when and where you want to visit, but you don’t have to sit for hours on ferries and can enjoy swim spots while traveling from one island to another.
Some of the most beautiful islands you should stop at are Hvar, Korčula, Brač, Vis, Mljet, and Pag!
what a thorough guide!
My husband and I are hoping to get to Croatia this year. Thanks for all the great ideas!
Croatia looks amazing. Some of those old city streets look similar to where I spent time in Palamos Spain. Great picks of things to do in Croatia.
What a fabulous website, so much information that is very relevant to us as first time visitors to Croatia. I wish I had seen your site before I booked. I spent days and days researching, not knowing where to stay, which areas would suit us etc. I am loving reading all your tips. Thank you.
Thanks so much, I’m so glad my content is helpful to you! Enjoy Croatia <3
Awesome website!!!! Such great recs.