Planning a holiday in Croatia? Get ready for turquoise seas, medieval towns, and enough Instagram-worthy moments to fill your feed for years. Croatia isn’t just a summer hotspot – it’s a blend of history, culture, food, and fun that works in every season. Whether you’re here for sunsets, wine, or music festivals, you’ll find something that makes you say: “This is the best holiday ever.”
Below you’ll find a list of 10 places and experiences you cannot miss. Think of it as your starter pack for exploring Croatia.
🌊 Plitvice Lakes National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous natural wonders in Croatia. Wooden pathways guide you across 16 interconnected lakes with countless waterfalls. The colors of the water shift from emerald green to crystal blue, depending on the sunlight. Wildlife lovers might spot deer, bears, and rare birds in the surrounding forest. Plitvice is stunning year-round, but especially magical in autumn when the forests turn golden and red.
🎄 Advent in Zagreb
Each December, Zagreb turns into a Christmas fairy tale. The main squares and streets are filled with wooden huts serving hot chocolate, sausages, and mulled wine. Music and dance performances make the city come alive, and kids enjoy ice-skating under twinkling lights. Advent in Zagreb has been voted the best European Christmas market multiple times, beating some of the biggest cities on the continent. The festive atmosphere makes even cold winter nights feel warm.
🌅 Zadar Sunsets & Sea Organ
Zadar is world-famous for its sunsets – Alfred Hitchcock himself said they were the best in the world. The city’s Sea Organ is an architectural wonder: steps along the seafront create hauntingly beautiful sounds as waves push air through pipes. Sitting here at dusk feels like listening to the sea breathe. Nearby, the Greeting to the Sun installation lights up with colors powered by solar energy, turning the promenade into a glowing dance floor. Together, they create one of the most unique experiences in Croatia.
🏰 Dubrovnik & Lokrum Are a Must For Holiday in Croatia
Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a city steeped in history. Walking along its medieval city walls gives breathtaking views of the sea and terracotta rooftops. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize filming locations, adding another layer of excitement. Just a 15-minute boat ride away lies Lokrum, a lush island where peacocks roam freely among botanical gardens. The island also has a small saltwater lake, perfect for swimming. Dubrovnik and Lokrum together make a mix of culture, history, and natural beauty.
🎶 Holiday in Croatia in Varaždin Old Town
Varaždin is often called the Baroque capital of Croatia. Its Old Town is full of colorful palaces, elegant squares, and charming cafés. The Varaždin Castle, surrounded by a moat, is one of the city’s highlights. Every August, Varaždin hosts Špancirfest, a lively cultural festival with street performers, concerts, and art displays. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back into the 18th century. The friendly atmosphere makes Varaždin a hidden gem worth visiting.
🍷Baranja Wine Region
Baranja, located in eastern Croatia near the Danube River, is a paradise for wine enthusiasts. The region is famous for its vineyards and wine cellars called “gatori,” carved into the hillsides. Here, you can taste Graševina, a crisp white wine that perfectly matches local cuisine. Baranja is also rich in culture, with a strong Hungarian influence that can be felt in both food and traditions. Outdoor lovers can explore Kopački Rit Nature Park, one of Europe’s largest wetlands, home to diverse birdlife.
🍄 Istria & Motovun
Istria is often compared to Tuscany for its rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. The region is world-renowned for truffles, especially the white truffle that grows in the Motovun forest. Food lovers flock here for gourmet festivals celebrating truffles, wine, and olive oil. The hilltop town of Motovun offers spectacular views over the Istrian countryside. Medieval stone streets and charming squares make it a perfect place for slow exploration. Istria also offers easy access to the Adriatic coast, combining inland and seaside experiences.
🌴 Hvar Island
Hvar is known as the sunniest island in Croatia, with more than 2,700 hours of sunshine per year. Its main town is vibrant, filled with yacht-lined harbors, chic restaurants, and lively bars. Beyond nightlife, Hvar offers lavender fields, vineyards, and hidden coves for swimming. The island’s history is visible in landmarks like the Spanish Fortress overlooking the town. Whether you’re here to party or relax, Hvar gives you both in one stunning location.
⛵ Korčula Island
Korčula combines rich history with laid-back island life. Its walled Old Town is often called “mini Dubrovnik” for its narrow streets and medieval architecture. Legend says Marco Polo was born here, and you can visit a museum dedicated to him. Traditional culture is alive, with performances of the Moreška sword dance, a centuries-old spectacle. The island is also famous for Grk wine, unique to Korčula. Crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches make it perfect for families and couples alike.
🎉 Zrće Beach on Pag – Perfect for a Fun Holiday in Croatia
Zrće Beach is Croatia’s ultimate party destination. Known as the country’s Ibiza, it hosts world-famous DJs and electronic music festivals all summer long. Clubs like Papaya, Aquarius, and Noa keep the energy high from day to night. But Zrće isn’t only for partygoers – the beach itself has fine pebbles and turquoise water, perfect for daytime relaxation. The island of Pag also offers a different side, with unique moon-like landscapes and the famous Pag cheese.
When to Visit for the Best Holiday in Croatia?
Summer is perfect for beaches, islands, and nightlife. If you prefer fewer crowds, spring and autumn are ideal for exploring cities, hiking, and wine tours. Winter has its own magic, especially with Advent in Zagreb and peaceful coastal towns.
No matter the season, your holiday in Croatia will always offer something special. Plan around your interests – nature, culture, or festivals – and you’ll never go wrong.
📝 My Personal Note
Watching the sunset in Zadar while listening to the Sea Organ felt like the sea itself was telling stories. Walking Dubrovnik’s walls at sunrise gave me goosebumps. And in Baranja, sharing a glass of Graševina with locals felt like being welcomed into a big family.
Croatia is more than a destination. It’s an experience where history, flavors, and landscapes come together in one unforgettable journey.
👉 Your Next Step
Want to plan your own dream holiday in Croatia? Check out our full Things to Do in Croatia guide, and discover how every trip can turn into a story worth telling.
Written with sunsets in our eyes and waves in our ears,
– Your CTC Crew
