When it comes to natural beauty and a deep cultural heritage, Croatia takes the cake. Visitors are drawn to the unique architecture, a variety of UNESCO sites, and a diverse landscape. Croatia has mountain ranges, over a thousand islands, and 2,500 miles of coastline to explore. Here’s a look at the 15 best sights to see in Croatia.
Korčula Town
Korčula Town is a charming seaside town with impressive walls, towers, and a cathedral with unusual carvings. Its compact old town, shaped like a fishbone, is easy to explore in under an hour. Afterward, enjoy waterfront dining along the Petra Kanavelića promenade. It’s a convenient day trip from Dubrovnik by ferry.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunning natural wonder in central Croatia. It has 16 interconnected lakes linked by cascading waterfalls. Moss-covered travertine formations separate the brightly colored waters, shaped by the area’s unique geology. Wooden boardwalks wind through the landscape, offering an easy way to experience this amazing park.
Vis Island
Vis, once a secluded military base, gained fame after Mamma Mia! 2 showcased its charm. The island’s main towns, Vis, Kut, and Komiža, have stone houses and scenic promenades. Its southern coast hides picturesque bays and coves, with Stiniva Bay being a standout, best reached by boat or a rugged trail.
Split
Split is the gateway to Croatia’s islands, with ferries departing to Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta, and Korčula. Diocletian’s Palace is the heart of the city. It’s a 4th-century Roman complex that is now filled with cafes and shops. Visitors can enjoy Klapa singers in the Vestibule or hike Marjan Hill and catch stunning city views.
Šibenik
Šibenik has two UNESCO sites. One is the striking 15th-century St James’ Cathedral, adorned with 71 carved faces. The other site is the sea-bound St Nicholas Fortress. The city also has three more fortresses, with Barone standing out for its engaging visitor center and immersive exhibits.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, Croatia’s is a stunning fortified city filled with historic churches, monasteries, and limestone squares. Its ancient walls enclose charming neighborhoods and centuries of history. A walk along the city walls offers panoramic sea views and a look into the city’s hidden courtyards and gardens.
Hvar Town
In summer, this lively seaside town draws yachts and beachgoers to its buzzing cocktail bars and shores. For a quieter escape and sweeping views, climb to Fortica, the hilltop medieval castle. To swim, go to the waterfront to find a rocky cove or take a taxi boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands.
Istria
Istria’s rolling hills and historic towns offer tons of coastal charm. Rovinj stands out with its pastel buildings and cobbled lanes on a scenic peninsula. Inland, Motovun rises above a wooded valley, offering fantastic views from its medieval walls. At the southern tip, Cape Kamenjak has wild nature and cute pebble bays.
Kopački Rit Nature Park
Kopački Rit Nature Park, set on the Danube and Drava floodplain, is one of Europe’s largest wetlands and a home to 290 species of birds, including eagles and storks. Visitors can take boat tours or walk the boardwalk through flooded forests for a truly unique view.
Zagorje
Zagorje has several storybook castles that transport visitors through centuries of history. Trakošćan Castle, with its neo-Gothic façade and older core, has a museum on aristocratic life and scenic grounds with exotic trees and a lake. Further west, Veliki Tabor features 16th-century towers, moody interiors, and sweeping rural views.
Brač Island
Zlatni Rat, located near Bol on Brač’s southern coast, is Croatia’s most iconic beach, known for its unique, tail-shaped form and striking blue-green waters. Vidova Gora, the highest peak in the Adriatic islands, offers breathtaking views of the beach and surrounding islands.
Zagreb
Zagreb is perfect for leisurely walks. Stroll along Strossmayer promenade, which offers scenic views of the city’s medieval walls and the Lower Town’s red rooftops. Visit Dolac Market for fresh produce, then enjoy a coffee at Flower Square, to catch a glimpse of the city’s lively café culture.
Cres
Cres Island offers a rugged, unspoiled charm, with Cres Town’s pastel facades contrasting with the tranquility of Valun’s pebble beaches. Lubenice, an island village perched on a cliff, has stunning sea views. At the southern tip, Osor draws visitors to see its stone cottages, rose gardens, and artistic bronze sculptures of musicians.
Zadar
Zadar’s old town has Roman ruins, Byzantine churches, and Venetian defensive walls that are now a tree-lined seafront promenade. At sunset, the northwest corner becomes the perfect spot to experience Zadar’s famous sunset, accompanied by the soft music of the Sea Organ.
Krka National Park
Krka National Park is centered around the stunning Krka River, which flows through canyons, lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Boardwalks offer close views of the falls and vibrant fish swimming in emerald waters. The park also has Roman ruins, historic watermills, and two monasteries.
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