WHERE TO STAY IN CROATIA
As a Croatian, I travel all over Croatia regularly, and we often have to book hotels and apartments to stay at. That’s why here you can find guides that will tell you exactly where to stay in Croatia, from Zagreb to coastal towns like Split, Hvar, Zadar, and Dubrovnik.
BEST ACCOMMODATIONS IN CROATIA BY A LOCAL
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YOUR GO-TO GUIDES ON WHERE TO STAY IN CROATIA
These are the only guides on where to stay in Croatia, made by a local!
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best cities to stay in Croatia?
That depends on what you want to see and do in Croatia. I would say Split for island hopping, Dubrovnik for its stunning old town, Makarska for beaches, Brac and Hvar for the island atmosphere, and Istria for food and wine, and so on.
Where should I stay if I want to be near the beaches?
I would recommend either any of the towns on the Makarska Riviera or small villages on Croatian islands like Brac, Hvar, or Korcula.
Is it better to stay in a hotel or an apartment in Croatia?
Depends on what you want and what your budget is. Hotels are usually more expensive, but they’re also more luxurious and often include full board, so you don’t have to worry about anything. Apartments, on the other hand, tend to be more affordable, and there are some really great ones that are basically on the beach. Apartments are also better if you’re visiting with a family, but you do have to take care of things yourself, as well as cook or plan out where you want to eat. Both have pros and cons, it just depends on what you like and need!
Can I stay on Croatian islands without a car?
Yes, you can, but you’ll be tied down to the place you’re staying in. If you don’t have a car, I’d at least rent a scooter or plan to spend some money on taxis or transfers so you can explore more than one town. There are bus lines available on most islands, but they’re not very frequent, so you can’t fully depend on them.
What’s the best area to stay for first-time visitors?
I would highly recommend Split if you want an active holiday full of exploring, because you can see a lot around Split (islands, national parks, small towns). If you want more of a relaxing holiday by the beach, I’d recommend any of the towns near Makarska, for example Brela, Baska Voda, or Tucepi.
Are accommodations expensive in Croatia?
There are quite a lot of expensive accommodations, but you can still find budget-friendly ones. However, if you’re looking for cheap or budget-friendly options, don’t expect any luxury. Those will be very basic and might not be by the beach. If you want accommodation close to the beach, you will have to pay quite a lot, at least 150 euros per night.
How far in advance should I book?
As soon as possible. Some accommodations you can book all year round, and some become available each January for the upcoming season. Many Croatians book early in the year, so I’d suggest you do the same. That way you’ll have plenty of options, and not just the most expensive or the least appealing ones that are left over.
Can I stay in multiple places during one trip?
Yes, of course you can. Changing hotels is not a problem at all. However, keep in mind that if you move too much it can be taxing, as there will be a lot of packing, as well as many days where you have to check out by 9–10 a.m. and can’t check back in until 3–4 p.m. Make sure that during that time you know where you and your baggage will be!