If you’re wondering whether north or south Croatia is better for your holiday, keep reading!
Croatia is an absolutely stunning country and it could take you weeks, maybe even months, to explore every beautiful region, town, and attraction. Most visitors focus on the coast, but that’s when the big question comes up: “Where should we go?”
The Croatian coast is usually split into north Croatia and south Croatia since it’s impossible to see it all in just one trip, especially if you only have a few days. This blog post will help you decide which part of coastal Croatia is the right fit for your holiday plans!
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NORTH OR SOUTH CROATIA
NORTH CROATIA
WHY VISIT NORTH CROATIA
There are literally unlimited reasons to visit north Croatia. When talking about north Croatia, this usually includes the Istrian Peninsula and the Kvarner Gulf along the coast, and many visits also include Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes. North Croatia is for those slower-paced, more intimate travels to the Adriatic coast.
Here you’ll find gorgeous Italian-inspired towns like Rovinj and Poreč, full of narrow cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. You’ll also find hilltop villages surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, like Grožnjan and Motovun. The beaches are often quieter than in the south, making it perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds. When it comes to food, you can really feel that mix of Italian and Croatian influences, so you can enjoy fresh pastas, seafood, and award-winning wines. From here, it’s also easy to explore nearby countries like Slovenia and Italy, and you have stunning islands to visit, such as Lošinj, Cres, and Krk.
WHO IS NORTH CROATIA FOR
If you want to escape the crowds, explore charming small towns, and enjoy great food, north Croatia is perfect for you. History lovers will love wandering through coastal and medieval hilltop villages, and anyone who enjoys a good road trip will be captivated by this part of Croatia.
Active travelers will also love this part of Croatia. Whether you want to cycle scenic routes on Lošinj, hike in Učka Nature Park, or kayak around the quieter islands of Krk and Cres, there’s plenty to keep you busy. And while not exactly cheap, the northern coast is still a bit more affordable than the south.
WHAT NORTH CROATIA LACKS
North Croatia is full of charm, history, and delicious food, just with a slower, more peaceful pace than the south. So, if you’re looking for excitement, north Croatia is not for you. The coastline is rockier, so there aren’t many long, picturesque beaches. The sea can be cooler at the start and end of the season, and the weather is slightly less predictable than in southern Dalmatia. For example, this year Istria experienced several storms that didn’t reach the south. Nightlife is limited, mostly to a few festivals, so if you’re looking for parties, you might be a bit underwhelmed.
WHERE TO GO IN NORTH CROATIA
These are some of the most popular spots in north Croatia, so try to include at least a few in your itinerary:
- Rovinj – a romantic, Venetian-style town with cobbled streets, pastel houses, and gorgeous sunset views. Here’s what to do in Rovinj!
- Poreč – a small, charming town, home to the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica and lively seaside promenades.
- Pula – one of the most popular Istrian towns known for its remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater. Here’s what to do in Pula!
- Brijuni National Park – maybe my favourite NP in Croatia, a stunning archipelago of islands completely focused on nature and animals. Here’s a guide to Brijuni NP!
- Motovun & Grožnjan – two probably most beautiful hilltop villages in Croatia, famous for truffles, wine, and panoramic countryside views.
- Krk Island – one of the prettiest islands in north Croatia. Easily accessible by bridge from the mainland, with incredible beaches and lovely small towns. Check out what to do on Krk!
- Cres Island – A wilder, less-developed island than Krk, perfect for those who want to truly enjoy the nature. The island’s motto is no stress on Cres! Read what to do on Cres here.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park – not coastal but situated in the north, Plitvice is Croatia’s most beautiful national park, and a must visit. Here’s a guide to Plitvice Lakes NP!
- Zagreb – another non-coastal destination, but the capital of Croatia definitely deserves at least a day of your time. Here’s a guide to 1 day in Zagreb!
SOUTH CROATIA
WHY VISIT SOUTH CROATIA
South Croatia is stunning, and I could give you endless reasons to visit. First of all, basically anywhere you go in south Croatia looks like a postcard. Croatia is beautiful overall, but the south is truly jaw-dropping, which is reason enough to visit. The region includes Split and Dubrovnik at the southern tip. Both towns are Croatia’s most-visited destinations, and for good reason. They have stunning sea, historic old towns, and gorgeous nearby islands. Most of south Croatia is just as charming, each place with its own unique character.
South Croatia also enjoys long, sunny summers and warm seas well into autumn, so even September is perfect for beach days and island-hopping adventures. The region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, especially along the Makarska Riviera. And the islands like Hvar, Brač, Korčula, Mljet are absolutely breathtaking!
WHO IS SOUTH CROATIA FOR
In my opinion, south Croatia is perfect for everyone! There’s no way you won’t find something that will absolutely blow you away. I’d say it’s the ideal choice for first-time visitors, since most of the iconic landmarks, popular towns, and stunning islands are right here. It’s also perfect for beach lovers and anyone who wants to go island hopping.
You can swim at some of the most beautiful beaches and hop between some of the loveliest islands in the country. History lovers will be spoiled by the mix of UNESCO towns, ancient ruins, and cinematic landscapes. And if nightlife is your thing, the south has you covered with incredible party spots in Zrće, Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik.
WHAT SOUTH CROATIA LACKS
What south Croatia can seriously lack at times is calm! Since it’s home to hotspots like Dubrovnik and Hvar, it can get overcrowded during peak summer. Prices for accommodation, dining, and activities are also noticeably higher than in the north. On top of that, some areas feel less authentic, as the popularity of the region has made it more commercialized and touristy. If you’re after a quiet, slow-paced escape or want to stick to a tighter budget, south Croatia might feel a bit too busy and expensive.
WHERE TO GO IN SOUTH CROATIA
These are some of the most popular spots in south Croatia, so try to include at least a few in your itinerary:
- Dubrovnik – the most famous Croatian town, home to the incredible UNESCO-listed Old Town, medieval walls, and gorgeous sea views. Check out this 3-day Dubrovnik itinerary!
- Split – the most famous city for parties and island-hopping, has an amazing Old Town. Here’s how to spend 2 days in Split!
- Brač – a lovely, nature focused island near Split, famous for its incredible Zlatni Rat beach. Check out this Split to Brač guide!
- Hvar – Croatia’s most famous island, loved for great nightlife, lively beach clubs, and incredible lavender fields. Here’s a Split to Hvar guide to help you out!
- Korčula – My favourite island in Croatia, charming island with an incredible old town, amazing wineries and sandy beaches. Here’s what to do on Korcula!
- Mljet National Park – the south also has an amazing national park! Mljet is an amazingly green island with saltwater lakes, perfect for active travelers who love cycling and kayaking.
- Peljesac Peninsula – One of the prettiest destinations near Dubrovnik, famous for local wine, amazing beaches, and some of the best oysters in the world. Here’s what to do on Peljesac!
- Cavtat – the perfect place to escape the crowds of Dubrovnik, a quieter seaside town perfect for relaxing. Check out this Cavtat guide!
NORTH OR SOUTH CROATIA: A SUMMARY
| Category | North Croatia | South Croatia |
|---|---|---|
| Main locations | Istrian Peninsula, Kvarner Gulf, Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes | Split, Dubrovnik, Makarska Riviera, Islands (Hvar, Brac, Korcula, Mljet, etc.) |
| Atmosphere | Slower-paced, intimate, calm | Busy, lively, popular |
| Beaches | Quieter, less crowded, often rocky | Long, pebbly and sometimes sandy, most beautiful in the country |
| Islands | Lošinj, Cres, Krk | Hvar, Brac, Korcula, Mljet |
| Food | Mix of Italian and Croatian seafood, pastas, wine | Mediterranean flavors, seafood, Croatian classics |
| Activities | Cycling, hiking, kayaking, exploring hilltop villages | Beach days, island-hopping, historical sightseeing, nightlife |
| Crowds | Less crowded, peaceful, slower-paced | Can be overcrowded, especially Dubrovnik and Hvar, very touristy |
| Cost | More affordable | More expensive |
| Weather | Slightly less reliable, cooler sea early/late season | Longer sunny summers, warm sea well into autumn |
| Best For | Relaxed travelers, food lovers, road trips, active travelers | First-time visitors, beach lovers, island hoppers, nightlife lovers |
