One of the most popular destinations in the Balkans, Croatia is famous for its picture-perfect beaches and islands, swoon-worthy old towns, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
There is no shortage of amazing places to visit in Croatia, but it’s what you do there that counts.
Croatia has a huge variety of hands-on activities and special experiences for visitors – from unique hiking trails and budget-friendly watersports, to culinary masterclasses and wine degustations, palace tours, and driving routes through fairytale villages.
This list brings together 30 of the very best Croatia experiences.
Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.
Croatia essentials
Here are my favourite resources to help you organise your trip to Croatia.
FLIGHTS: Find affordable flights to Croatia on Skyscanner.
TRAVEL INSURANCE: Insure your trip with HeyMondo, my preferred provider for single-trip and annual travel insurance. Get 5% off when you use my link.
CAR HIRE: Use Local Rent to hire a budget-friendly car from a local agent (prices start from 30€/day) or jump on the Discover Cars website to hire a car through an international company.
ACCOMMODATION: Find the best hotel and apartment deals on Booking.com, the most popular booking platform in Croatia.
TOP-RATED CROATIA DAY TRIP: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split (book through Viator).
Top 10 things to do in Croatia
1. Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls
If you’re looking for the most memorable things to do in Croatia, don’t miss walking the city walls of Dubrovnik.
As one of the most picturesque small cities in Europe, Dubrovnik has more than its share of stunning viewpoints – but arguably the very best ones are on the walls. Dating to the 13th century, the once-defensive city walls still fully encircle the historic centre. Walking the full loop around them is easily one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.
From the walls, you can appreciate views of everything from Lokrum Island and the West Harbour area, to the Adriatic Sea and the Lovrijenac Fortress. But the best views of all are of the city itself, with its dizzying array of terracotta rooftops.
It takes about 45 minutes to an hour to walk the walls at a reasonable pace, though it’s easy for photographers to spend much longer.
Due to their deserved popularity, Dubrovnik’s city walls cost a pretty penny to visit. As of the time of writing, a ticket to climb the walls costs 35 Euro, which is the same as buying a one-day Dubrovnik Pass (which includes the city walls as well as other museums around town and public transportation for the day).
Because of this, most travellers will want to purchase a pass in order to make the most of their time in Dubrovnik (don’t miss the Franciscan Monastery!).
By Kate from Our Escape Clause
2. Explore Hvar’s stunning old town, Stari Grad
With its fascinating history, impressive architecture and vibrant nightlife, Hvar is among Croatia’s most popular islands.
Speaking of history, one of the best things to do on Hvar is to visit the irresistibly idyllic town of Stari Grad. One of the oldest towns in all of Croatia and Europe overall, Stari Grad holds true hidden-gem status as compared to touristic Hvar Town.
A breezy stroll through its captivating cobblestone streets will reveal many treasures, from Tvrdalj Palace to Škor Square. As you explore, you cannot miss a visit to the Stari Grad Riva. This postcard-perfect harbour is the hallmark of Stari Grad. Here, you can browse the boutiques and grab a seat at one of the inviting outdoor cafes.
Before leaving Stari Grad, do yourself a favour and make a reservation at Eremitaž. This charming restaurant is set amongst a canopy of trees and offers fresh Mediterranean cuisine and a lovely vantage point over the harbour.
If time allows, consider a short drive or bus ride to the Stari Grad Plain. Established by the Ancient Greeks, this is the oldest remaining continually-cultivated vineyard and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
By Elena from The Carry-On Chronicles
3. Follow the boardwalks in Plitvice Lakes National Park
Located just 120 kilometres inland from the popular coastal town of Zadar, Plitvice is Croatia’s oldest and most beautiful national park. This is the top destination in Croatia for outdoor enthusiasts who want to experience this natural marvel in the Balkans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979.
You can spend several days walking the 18.4 kilometres of trails that run through the park, taking breaks every now and then to enjoy a picnic with some locally made cheese, Basa or Škripavac. Plitvice features 16 crystal clear lakes that are fed by over 90 waterfalls ranging from small trickles to massive panoramic veils.
The best time to visit Plitvice Lakes is in spring before the busy tourist season, when the melting snow means the waterfalls will be at peak flow. From Plitvice, the outdoor adventures continue with whitewater rafting and kayaking available nearby in the Korana River.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-experience for any traveller who loves nature and is up for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
By Gabriel from Chef Travel Guide
4. Spend a day in Zagreb, Croatia’s dynamic capital city
Zagreb might be one of the smallest capitals in the region in terms of population, but it’s also one of the oldest and most captivating. If you want to come away with a well-rounded impression of Croatia, you must spend at least a day in Zagreb.
This is especially true if you’re visiting Croatia in winter. Zagreb is a city for all seasons, and there are plenty of activities on offer during the low season when northern Croatia, Istria and the interior trump visiting the Dalmatian Coast.
For most of its history, Zagreb was not one city at all, but two separate settlements: Kaptol, the eastern side, was traditionally the domain of the clergymen while sprawling Gradec to the west was inhabited by merchants and craftsmen. A statue of Ban Josip Jelačić, the army lieutenant and politician who united the city in 1851, sits proudly in the main square.
Walk through the Kamenita vrata (Stone Gate), gawk at the incredible tiled roof of St. Mark’s Cathedral from the top of Lotrscak Tower, ride the world’s shortest funicular, get lost in the bustle of the Dolac Market, and stroll the Green Horseshoe of Zagreb.
You can find more quirky things to do in Zagreb later on this list.
5. Road trip though Istria’s fairytale villages
Croatian Istria is best known for its stunning coastline – but most people don’t know about the fairytale-like Istrian villages of Motovun, Grožnjan and Hum in central Istria. This is a perfect place to escape the crowds, stroll the cobblestone streets, and relax with a glass of local wine overlooking the vineyards.
Once you’ve spent enough time on Pula’s beaches, hop in a car for a day trip to the hilltop villages. Public transport is very sparse, so the best way to get there is by car. The quiet roads make this region one of the best settings for a Balkans road trip.
Motovun is best known for being home to the Motovun Film Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors who come together once a year to enjoy independent movies under the stars. Grožnjan is known as the village of artists, and here you will see the work of its artistic inhabitants all around the colourful village.
Hum is famously the smallest city in the world. It has less than 50 permanent inhabitants. Admire the stone houses of this walled town and imagine what life used to be like hundreds of years ago.
By Natali from She’s Abroad Again
6. See a show at the Roman Arena in Pula
The Istrian city of Pula on Croatia’s northern coast is known for one thing: the Pula Arena, which happens to be one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in Europe.
Built on a low hill overlooking the city, the arena has no fewer than 72 limestone arches, each towering 100 feet high. When it was completed around 27 BC, the theatre could accommodate up to 23,000 spectators.
It is still used today to host music performances and film festivals – albeit with slightly smaller crowds. If you’re lucky enough to be in town when there’s a show on, be sure to scoop up tickets quick smart.
If the timing isn’t right, you can still enter the arena to visit the museum inside. Or just take a walk around the periphery – the immense scale and exquisite engineering can be appreciated from the outside.
For a bird’s eye view of the arena, head to the top of Fortress Kastel. If you’re on a day trip from Rovinj to Pula, don’t skip the other Roman ruins: The Gate of Hercules, Arch of the Sergii and the Temple of Augustus are both walking distance from the harbour.
7. Listen to the Sea Organ & greet the sun in Zadar
Historic Zadar is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia and the home of one of the oldest universities in the Balkans, the University of Zadar. The Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun in Zadar are two must-see attractions that showcase this city’s unique blend of history, art, and technology.
The Sea Organ is an installation that is carved into the rocks along the popular coastal pathway. The sea waves crash into the musical instrument at various incremental steps, creating an echoing sound reminiscent of piano music. Visitors can sit atop the steps and listen as the power of the waves hits the rocks and creates different melodies.
The Seaside Piano is popular during the day, so early in the morning or later at night is a good time to visit. In the evening you also get an opportunity to visit its neighbouring attraction, the Greeting to the Sun.
The Greeting to the Sun is a solar-powered light installation that sits on Zadar Promenade and creates a stunning light show at sunset. It absorbs energy from the sun during the day and releases it in a captivating display of light at night.
To experience both of these free attractions, simply head down to the seaside promenade in Zadar. Both are significant because they embody Zadar’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing cutting-edge technology and design.
By Diana from Travels in Poland
8. Get your Game of Thrones on in Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik should be high on the list when planning your Croatia itinerary – and it’s a definite must-visit for Game of Thrones fans.
If you watch the popular TV show, you will find many familiar scenes as you wander Old Town Dubrovnik, which served as the filming location for King’s Landing on the show.
For the most memorable experience, you’ll want to book a dedicated GOT tour. On a walking tour of the top filming sites in Dubrovnik led by expert local guides, you’ll not only visit the filming sites of import, you’ll also learn a lot as your guide regales you with behind-the-scenes stories and events that took place during filming.
Among the spots you’ll visit are Pile Gate, where King Joffrey had dung thrown at him by incensed citizens, the Jesuit Staircase, the famous steps where Cercei took her walk of shame, and the Red Keep (Lovrijenac Fortress), which was the location of Joffrey’s Nameday Tournament.
By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles
9. Tour the Diocletian’s Palace in historic Split
The Diocletian Palace, one of Croatia’s 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is one of the top tourists attractions in Split.
Once an expansive palace belonging to Roman Emperor Diocletian, it later became his retirement villa. After his death, enterprising citizens used the ruins of the Diocletian Palace to build homes, stores and businesses, some of which are embedded in the walls and ruins around the palace grounds.
To experience the palace, be sure to sign up for a free walking tour of Split’s historic district. Your guide will show you all the main attractions and share the history and background of Diocletian and the creation of his villa. Guides really bring this ancient city to life.
As part of the tour, you will wander the remains of the villa and visit Diocletian’s mausoleum along with other attractions including the main square or Peristil, the main entry to the palace, Colonnade Square, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. If you enjoy the tour, do tip your guide for their time and effort.
There is more to do in Split on your own, from the public markets to the harbour and waterfront areas, the open parks, and fantastic beaches in the area.
By Noel from US Road Trip Now
10. Indulge in Croatian cuisine & local wines
Croatia is a haven for foodies and wine buffs – there are many more food experiences in Croatia coming up on this list. For now, suffice it to say that getting acquainted with the country’s food traditions and wine heritage is an absolute must.
From fresh seafood, to the ubiquitous cevapi, a delicacy shared between all the Balkan nations, to soul-warming home-style classics such as sarma, cabbage stuffed with minced meat, rice and spices. One must-eat in Croatia is strukli, a cottage cheese strudel that can be oven-baked or boiled. La Štruk in Zagreb is the best place to try both sweet (blueberry) and savoury (truffle) versions.
The region of Slavonia east of Zagreb should be on every foodie’s radar. This is Croatia’s unofficial gastronomic capital, with a gamut of local specialties including Kulen sausage and Riblji paprikaš fish, both of which make heavy use of paprika – a nod to the city’s Habsburg heritage.
And let’s not forget that Croatia is home to one of the most underrated wine regions in Europe. Oenophiles should make a beeline for the Istrian Peninsula, where light and bright wines are made from Malvasia Istriana grapes.
Croatia bucket list: Hiking, beaches & adventure
11. Chase waterfalls in Krka National Park
Visiting Krka National Park is a bucket-list activity for most travellers to Croatia – the enticing waterfalls and stunning natural beauty are simply too good to miss. Visitors often flock to the National Park, take a few photos, then head to their next destination. But a quick visit simply doesn’t do Krka justice.
One of the best things to do in Krka is slow down and explore the intricate wooden boardwalks around Skradinski Buk. The walkways twist and turn their way over and around the series of 17 waterfalls that make Krka so famous.
Each one is impressively positioned so as to not disturb the natural flow of the river, carefully dodging the mangroves and tree roots that sporadically sprout from the water.
In order to preserve the natural biosphere of Krka National Park, swimming is no longer permitted at Skradinski Buk, but wandering on top of the tiered pools cascades is an absolute must.
By Ben from Ticket 4 Two Please
12. Hike in the Dinaric Alps
In northern Croatia’s Dinaric Alps region, right on the border of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the small town of Korenica is the starting point for one of the best hikes in Croatia.
The Pljesevica mountain trail is a 13.6 kilometre full-day hike. It starts off gently, winding its way through photogenic farms and countryside before starting to ascend through the forest.
It’s a moderately challenging route, and parts of the trail are rugged. However it’s worth it when you get to the summit. Eventually you’ll reach a road near the top that was an access point during the Yugoslav Wars. Because the mountain sits right on the border of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, you can stand with one foot in each country.
At the top, you’ll find abandoned barracks, an old runway, and crumbling outhouses. However, the main highlight is the stage-like giant rock platform. It’s located just behind the barracks.
After scrambling down a steep ravine and then climbing up the rock, you will get the most beautiful view down the valley. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world!
By Becki from Meet Me In Departures
13. Snorkel in the Blue Lagoon
One of the best things to do in Croatia, without a doubt, is to go snorkelling at the famous Blue Lagoon. This area of ocean between the islands of Krknjasi and Veliki is where you’ll find some of the bluest water you’ll ever see!
The best way to take advantage of this incredible location is by snorkelling – but it’s just as good to swim here, too. Everybody knows it. For this reason, if you’re able to arrive early or alternatively visit later in the afternoon (around sunset) you’ll enjoy a far more peaceful experience.
Since the Blue Lagoon is quite remote, it can be a challenge to get there independently. The easiest way to visit is to join a boat tour from Split or Trogir. There are plenty of tour providers happy to take you to the Blue Lagoon for a reasonable price.
By Ella Moore from Many More Maps
14. Learn to sail in Split
Although Croatia might be regarded as one of Europe’s most affordable countries, that doesn’t mean you have to skimp on unique, luxe experiences. Croatia is a popular place for sailing, and one of the best places to learn the ropes is the coastal city of Split.
Split is an excellent destination for budding seafarers with plenty of different sailing and yachting schools. The city itself is the perfect setting for an extended stay, with its stunning coastline and beaches and historic atmosphere. It’s the perfect base to start getting out on the water.
Whether you have zero experience or you already have some basic navigation skills, you can sign up for one of the many sailing courses offered throughout Split.
One example is ULTRA Sailing School, which was founded by a famous Croatian Olympic sailor. They offer a Day Skipper Bareboat Sail course that’s set on the gorgeous Beneteau First 36 boat. Another option is RYA Day Skipper Croatia, which is suitable for both complete beginners and aspiring yachties alike!
By Bradley from Dream Big, Travel Far
15. Go island hopping in Kornati National Park
The unique Kornati National Park is not to be found on land – instead, it’s scattered in the Adriatic Sea. The park is made up of about 150 karst islands of all sizes, aptly nicknamed ‘crowns’.
A popular half-day or a full-day trip in the vicinity of Šibenik takes you on a boat of your choice among the many beautiful islets and islands, stopping at a few along the way.
The islands are privately owned and nowadays used exclusively for farming. Olive trees and sheep are the only permanent inhabitants. Boat tours typically stop at Mana Island, where there is an old movie set from the 1950s, and often also on Levrnaka Island, with its exceptional restaurant and small beach.
The best starting point for a trip to the Kornati islands is the village of Murter.
By Veronika from Travel Geekery
16. Find paradise on secluded Sakarun Beach
A day trip to the Sakarun-Strand is a true highlight of any trip. One of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, it is located on the ‘long island’ of Dugi Otok. Enjoying a bit of Caribbean flavour in the heart of Europe is absolutely an amazing experience.
Sakarun Beach has fine white sand and sparkling turquoise waters. It has so far been spared from mass tourism – the majority of visitors are solo travellers and peace seekers who appreciate the beautiful atmosphere of the soft, white sand.
The journey there can be organised from the mainland via Zadar Old Town. One can either book a day trip (for example with a sailboat) or take the ferry and do it DIY.
You won’t find any restaurants on the beach, but there are two lovely small bars that serve cold drinks, ice cream, and light meals. Especially lovely is the Amarcord Beach Bar‘s wooden patio, from which you can enjoy the most amazing views of Sakarun Beach.
By Martina from PlacesofJuma
17. Conquer the Premuzic Trail in the Velebit Mountains
The Premužić trail is the most popular hike in the legendary Croatian Velebit mountains. Starting at the Zavižan mountain refuge and culminating in Baške Oštarije village, this 57 kilometre-long trail offers stunning seaside views.
A Croatian forest engineer named Ante Premužić built the trail in 1933 over the course of three years. It is mostly flat and not too challenging. Along the way, you can admire unique stone formations.
The first 16 km of the trail runs through Northern Velebit National Park, which is extremely biodiverse and rich in flora. At 1676 metres, Gromovača in the Rožanski Kukovi range is the highest point on the trail and offers panoramic views. And from Rossi’s Shelter, you can see all the way out towards Pag Island and Rab Island.
By Gabi from Under Flowery Sky
18. Cycle through the vineyards on Korcula Island
Wine tourism is a flourishing attraction on the beautiful Croatian island of Korčula, an easy 2-3 hour ferry journey from Split or Dubrovnik.
Its gently rolling hills and vineyards are best explored by bicycle. You can roll off the ferry in Korčula Town and easily procure a reasonably-priced rental for the hour, half day or day. Staff will provide you with a map and point you in the right direction. Organised group and private tours are also available.
For a relaxed afternoon head to nearby Lumbarda, where you’ll find a handful of wineries and a sandy beach for a refreshing dip before starting your (uphill) return.
If you only have time for one glass of wine on the island, make it grk. Korčula is the only place to produce wine from the unique indigenous grape which is feminine and needs to be pollinated by another variety.
Vineyards and yields are small, so grk isn’t normally found outside this part of Croatia.
By Steph from The Mediterranean Traveller
Essential Croatia experiences for foodies
19. Feast on incredible Croatian seafood
Croatia has 1,100 miles (1,760 km) of Adriatic coastline and more than 1,000 islands. You know what that means: Awesome seafood! No visit to Croatia would be complete without feasting on some of the freshest and most delicious seafood you’ll ever taste.
Croatia is especially exceptional when it comes to calamari. Large squid swim around the Adriatic and get scooped up by local fisherman every day and sold to nearby restaurants.
We’re not talking about the little rings of fried calamari you might see at an Italian or Greek restaurant. We’re talking about an entire squid, cleaned and grilled in olive oil to perfection. For anyone who appreciates seafood there is literally nothing better.
If you’re in Split, you’ll find the best squid at Konoba Nikola (they have no website, but here is a link to their Google maps location). A no-frills restaurant that has more locals than tourists, you’ll have the best seafood experience of your life here. It’s a bit tough to get to if you don’t have a car, but it will be worth it.
Other seafood delicacies to try in Croatia include fresh prawns, squid ink seafood risotto, and any kind of fresh fish.
By Chris from Around The World With Me
20. Eat a traditional slow-cooked Croatian peka
One of the best foodie experiences in Croatia is trying a traditional peka. Croatia’s national dish, the name comes from the word peći which means ‘to roast’.
This ancient cooking method uses a bell-shaped cast iron lid to cover a cooking dish, which is placed directly on the fire. Hot embers and ashes are then scooped onto the lid, cooking the food from above and below – similar to an outdoor slow cooker.
The peka technique is primarily used to prepare meat dishes, but historically it was also used to bake bread and pastries. Today you’ll typically choose between a lamb, fish or octopus dish. After 2-3 hours, the meat and vegetables are cooked to perfection – soft and aromatic.
Peka is a culinary tradition and is commonly prepared for a large group. You can try a peka dish in many restaurants around the country, including at Roki’s on Vis Island. Since it takes a long time to cook, you will need to place your order at least one day in advance.
By Nausheen from Globe Gazers
21. Forage for truffles in Istria
Not only is Istria home to some of Croatia’s most charming villages, it’s also a foodie’s paradise. From oysters to steaks, this diverse region is spoilt for choice when it comes to gourmet food products.
Chefs in Istria famously combine Italian and Croatian cuisines, drawing on the best each has to offer to concoct some truly delicious meals. White truffles play a starring role in many regional dishes. They grow in abundance in the forests around Motovun and are harvested between September and December. During this period, you can find white truffles on almost every restaurant menu.
Foodies can go one step further and join a truffle tour in Istria. Farms such as Karlic Tartuffi offer visitors the chance to get hands on and join the hunt for the elusive truffles. Their team of trained dogs does most of the legwork, but you’ll have to get down and dirty when it comes time to unearth the goods.
The chance to forage for your own truffles – and eat them afterwards! – is an amazing foodie experience that shouldn’t be missed.
22. Eat cheese on the moon-like Pag Island
For something completely different to do in Croatia, head to Pag Island. You won’t just feel like you have landed on the moon with its crazy lunar-like landscape, but you’ll also get to taste Pag’s famous cheese.
Located a short drive north of Zadar, Pag is connected by bridge to the mainland of Croatia, making it easy to visit. As you drive, the landscape becomes increasingly desolate until you see Pag across the water. Its rocky, white form looks stunning against the bright blue Adriatic Sea. As you drive across, you’ll feel like you have left Europe behind.
Pag is famous for its cheese called Paški sir. Made from sheep’s milk, it has quite a unique taste thanks to the unusual vegetation that grows on Pag. You can find it for sale in many places as well as in roadside stalls, which are worth a stop.
You can also do a factory tour and learn more about the cheese at Sirana Gligora Cheese Bar, which is right off the main road.
By Sharon from Dive Into Germany
Alternative things to do in Croatia
23. Go urbexing at the abandoned Zeljava Air Base
Visiting the abandoned Zeljava Air Base is one of the most unique things to do in Croatia.
Located right at the border with Bosnia and Herzegovina, the airbase was built between 1948 and 1968 and was one of the largest and most expensive military construction projects in Europe. For years the place has been kept a secret. Its location, literally hidden inside the slopes of Plješevica Mountain, definitely helped.
Besides five runways, there was also an underground section of the base that could hide up to 58 airplanes (the total length of the tunnels was 3.5 km). At the beginning of the Yugoslav Wars in the 1990s, the airport was destroyed by the retreating Yugoslav People’s Army, which also mined the area.
Today, the area of Zeljava Air Base is open to the public and you can wander around the decayed infrastructure and explore all the bits and pieces of the former airport (it’s important to stick to the well-worn parts as there still might be mines around). You can even go inside the underground parts – just be careful as it’s pitch black inside.
One of the highlights is the abandoned Douglas C-47 plane that you can climb inside. Since Zeljava Air Base is very close to Plitvice Lakes National Park you can easily stop off here when visiting this popular Croatian destination.
By Kami from Kami And The Rest Of The World
24. Sit on the Iron Throne on Lokrum Island
Lokrum Island is just a 15-minute boat ride from the old town port of Dubrovnik. Small and forested, it has a complicated history involving Richard the Lionheart, the Hapsburg Emperors, and even a curse!
There are many things to do when visiting Lokrum Island, including a trip to Croatia’s own ‘Dead Sea’ and hiking to the Fort Royal. But many people come specifically to sit on the original Iron Throne from the HBO series Game of Thrones.
Once you disembark from the ferry, head to the Benedictine Monastery. Inside to your left you’ll find an exhibit that covers some of the scenes from the show that were filmed here. And there it is: The original Iron Throne used for filming, which was donated to the city of Dubrovnik by HBO.
You are welcome to sit on the Iron Throne and take photos. There is often a line, so it’s best to arrive as early in the morning as possible. During peak season, the first ferry leaves Dubrovnik for Lokrum at 9am, with the last ferry departing at 8pm.
By Cynthia from Sharing the Wander
25. Kick back at a cliff bar in Dubrovnik
Another amazing thing to do in Croatia is hang out at a cliff bar in Dubrovnik. Located on the Adriatic Coast, this vibrant city is home to some of the most stunning views in Europe.
There are cliff bars located right in the heart of Old Town Dubrovnik where you can enjoy delicious local Mediterranean cuisine and sip cold drinks while taking in the spectacular views. From here, you can watch the sunset in all its glory and take in the stunning panorama of the islands nearby.
One of the most popular is the Buza Bar, located in the heart of Dubrovnik Old Town. You will see it as you make your way to the Jesuit stairs and the church (as you approach, look for the sign ‘drinks’ written on the wall).
With their comfortable outdoor seating and lively music, these bars are the perfect place to relax and kick back after a long day of sightseeing. Something that makes these cliff bars in Dubrovnik unique – you can enjoy a dive or a quick swim as well.
By Mayuri from ToSomePlaceNew
26. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships
Zagreb city is brimming with curious museums and interesting art galleries. A must-visit is the Museum of Broken Relationships, which has gained international fame for its innovative curatorial concept.
In case you don’t know the premise: Everyday objects in the rotating exhibition are crowdsourced from people around the world, all united by the fact that they symbolise the demise of a relationship.
From the hilarious to the heartbreaking, each accompanying story is riveting – you can’t help but linger in front of every didactic until you’ve finished reading each and every passage.
The museum is conveniently located in the centre of Zagreb and is open daily. Queues for this star attraction often stretch around the block, so I recommend you pre-purchase skip the line tickets to avoid a long wait.
27. Wander the wonderful Mirogoj Cemetery in Zagreb
Located on the northern outskirts of Zagreb, Mirogoj Cemetery is Croatia’s national pantheon and one of its most important historical and architectural landmarks. Built between 1876-1929, the vast complex of green spaces and graveyards is knitted together with neo-Renaissance-style arcades, pavilions and chapels.
Wandering a cemetery isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for an alternative activity in Croatia, this is one of the best. Throughout the ages, some of the country’s most illustrious artists, scientists and politicians of every creed have been laid to rest here, and you’ll learn a lot about Croatian history as you walk amongst their elaborate headstones and sculptures.
Entrance to Mirogoj is free. You can reach the cemetery by city bus from the stop outside St Catherine’s in around 30 minutes.
28. Photograph the Podgaric Monument
Croatia, like other countries in the Balkans, is home to a few impressive spomeniks or war memorials. Officially titled the ‘Monument to the Revolution of the People of Moslavina’, this particular monument in the town of Podgarić, an hour east of Zagreb, is one of the most impressive.
Built in 1965-7 by sculptor Dušan Džamonja and architect Vladimir Veličković, the 10-metre-high concrete sculpture commemorates a rebel uprising that took place in this part of Croatia during World War II.
The sculpture’s abstract shape resembles a bird, wings outstretched, with an aluminium eye at its centre. Anyone who is interested in Brutalist architecture will appreciate its grand, soaring form.
Much like the Buzludzha Monument in Bulgaria or the Ilinden in Krusevo, North Macedonia, the Podgaric Monument doubles as a graveyard. It is the final resting place for around 1,000 Partisan fighters who lost their lives at a field hospital in this location.
Because of the location, it’s best to visit Podgaric with your own car. The monument is an easy drive from Zagreb, and there is parking onsite. There are several other memorials and points of interest in the area as well, documented here on the Spomenik Database.
29. See the Red Fico in Osijek
Another memorial worth seeking out is the famous Red Fico in Osijek. It commemorates another episode in Croatian history, this time an event that occurred much more recently.
Located in the eastern region of Slavonia, not far from the Serbian border, the city of Osijek was the site of a major battle in the 1991-2 Yugoslav Wars. Bullet holes still pockmark building facades, and the war is part of many people’s living memory.
The iconic ‘Red Fiat’ (Crveni fićo) is an unusual and moving tribute to one brave Osijek local who held off encroaching troops with his little red car.
Osijek is more than just war history: This is an intriguing city that many tourists unfortunately overlook. It sits on the Drava River, close to the Danube that flows to Novi Sad and Northern Serbia, and is very multicultural as a result.
While you’re in town, be sure to visit Osijek’s other landmarks, particularly the Co-Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, a stunning Neo-Gothic church built in 1898, and the lovely Ante Starčević Square.
30. Support the Kuterevo Bear Refuge near Rijeka
The Kuterevo Bear Refuge is an unexpected gem in Croatia. Located two hours by road from Rijeka, it’s a bit tricky to get to, making it an ideal stop on a Croatian Road Trip.
The sanctuary rescues brown bears orphaned by the culls that happen in Croatia to keep the population down. Some of the bears are adopted from zoos that can’t keep them any more.
There are 7-10 bears on site depending on the season, with a mix of younger bears from the wild and older ones taken from zoos.
The sanctuary has been operating since 2002 and is managed entirely by volunteers. If you’re looking for a wildlife encounter in Croatia or something fun to do with kids, this is an ethical and sustainable option.
Entrance to the Kuterevo Bear Sanctuary is free, so make sure you leave a tip or buy some of the locally produced crafts on your way out.
By Ben from The Sabbatical Guide
BONUS: Take a day trip to a neighbouring country!
While there is more than enough to do in Croatia to keep you busy, if you have some extra time up your sleeve, you can always take advantage of the country’s strategic location to explore more of the fascinating Balkans region.
From Split or Dubrovnik, you could spend a day in charming Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Or from Croatian Istria, you could plan a day trip to Slovenia’s pretty coastal city of Piran. You can even take a side trip to Lake Bled from Zagreb – this iconic lake is only 2 hours by road from the Croatian capital.
For an alternative option, consider the city of Herceg Novi in Montenegro…
Herceg Novi lies at the mouth of Montenegro’s famous Bay of Kotor, around an hour’s drive from Dubrovnik. Unlike most of the homogenous Venetian towns on the bay, this city is an architectural hodgepodge.
Its strategic location meant tiny Herceg Novi was a highly sought-after prize: Ottomans, Venetians, Spanish, and Austro-Hungarians all ruled over Herceg Novi for certain periods of time. Each one of these settlers left their very own mark on the hamlet.
A Spanish fortress sits atop the hill, an old Ottoman city gate is now the emblematic clocktower adorned with an Austro-Hungarian clock and the tiny stone houses making up Stari Grad are distinctly Venetian.
There is plenty to see and do in Herceg Novi to keep you busy for a day or two. Explore the little streets in Stari Grad, visit the remains of the Kanli Kili fortress or take a dip in the aquamarine Adriatic coast at the foot of Herceg Novi Stari Grad.
By Caroline from Veggiewayfarer