The Just You Solo Travel Guide to Croatia

There is so much to love about Croatia, a notable gastronomy scene, curious local crafts and traditions, and of course a myriad of spectacular landscapes from those sparkling azure waters to lush national parks.

Here is your ultimate solo travel guide to Croatia, from reasons to visit to recipes to try at home yourself. 

And we're (island) hopping mad about Croatia right now - so much so, we're offering £250 off our 3 and 10 May 2025 departures for Croatian Island Explorer.

Best time to visit

For comfortable temperatures, warmer waters and to escape the crowds, May is the best time to visit Croatia. It's particularly ideal for cruising on the Croatian Island Explorer, when waters are much calmer, and once in port, the weather is much better to explore idyllic towns and villages in comfort.

If you love the great outdoors, Croatia's breathtaking national parks and perfect to explore May or September. Home to eight national parks, you have the most superb opportunities to immerse yourself in unspoilt nature and gaze at cascading waterfalls and glorious coastlines.

Reasons to visit

You've probably seen plenty of photos of Croatia and its vibrant azure coastlines dotted with orange-roofed buildings and historic streets... that enough is argument alone to visit, especially given its filming location credentials from Game of Thrones to Mamma Mia.

Here are ten reasons to get you started. Already ticked off Dubrovnik? Don't worry, we have a tour for you, and this Croatian island hopping adventure should tick a lot of your boxes with stunning beaches, medieval towns and cultural monuments waiting for you.

Enjoy a taste of Croatia at home

Croatia's unique geographical location means you're in for a real treat. Situated at a crossroads between Central Europe, the Me­diterranean, and Southeast Europe, the gastronomy features various infusions, so you won't be disappointed when you dine around the islands.

The national dish is a stew-like Peka (here's a recipe to try for yourself at home) but there is plenty more besides, including risottos, seafood and vegetarian dishes. For a sneak peek as to typical dishes you can expect to see on menus, click here. And of course, always remember to let us know of any dietary needs as soon as possible so that we can make sure we've got you well catered for.

Expect to see plenty of salads with extra virgin olive oil as is the Mediterranean way. During your time onboard the MV Paradis as part of the Croatian Island Explorer tour, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a wine and olive oil tasting.

Herbs such as rosemary, sage, bay leaf, oregano and marjoram are used with gusto to add delicious flavours to dishes.

Fast facts and historical stories

The best way of getting to know a new country, is to look up some fascinating facts and stories - you'll be surprised how it helps set the scene for your solo travel in Croatia.

For example, the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world is Šibenik, on the Adriatic coast. People have inhabited this city for over one thousand years. Walk these ancient streets as part of a historic walking tour when we dock here on our Croatian Island Explorer tour.

What's more, when you dock in the likes of Hvar and Split on this itinerary, if you're a fair-weather explorer, you're in the perfect place.

These coastal regions enjoy a pleasant Mediterrane­an climate, boasting around 2,700 hours of sunshine every year. Remember to pack your fedora and sunglasses!

Head this way for more interesting facts to transform your solo travel in Croatia.

Remember there's different ways to experience an island

When you travel, we recommend switching on your senses and finding different unique ways to explore a destination. From land, from the water, underwater or from up above - these all offer incredible spins on a destination.

For example, head-turning Hvar is spectacular when approached from the water as you take in views of the island's lavender fields, ancient olive groves and the harbour filled with sleek yachts. It's a fantastic first-time view, before you head off into the main town for a walking tour and time at leisure.

Just make sure you try and see the town from as many different perspectives as possible, you won't regret it. And enjoy each and every moment as you meander through Hvar's winding streets.

And talking of perspectives, you'll visit Brac shortly after your Hvar adventures. When you visit the aptly named Zlatni Rat (which translates to Golden Horn or Golden Cape) is a V-shaped stretch of coastline on the southern coast of the island, walk to the tip for an alternative view of Hvar and the sparkling sea between the two islands.

As part of your coastal cruise, a refreshing and rewarding glass of wine awaits when you visit the peak of Vidova Gora which overlooks Zlatni Rat and the coastline beyond. Just don't forget to raise a glass to those spectacular views, incredible perspectives and excellent Croatian wine!

For more inspiration, here's our top five things to do in Croatia.

What to pack for Croatia

Croatia uses type C and F plug sockets, so a standard European plug will suffice for your trip. They're also the same style plug onboard the MV Paradis as part of the Croatian Island Explorer tour - we've been asked that very good question in the past so thought it useful to share!

As we mentioned earlier, May is the best time to visit Croatia, we recommend packing light cotton and airy linen layers and a light jacket as it can get a little cool in the evenings, especially when you're by the coast and there's a little breeze incoming.

The currency in Croatia is Euros, and for all Just You solo tours we recommend taking a mixture of cards and cash for everyday spending, emergencies and for tipping during your holiday.

Sun protection, comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are all essentials when exploring Croatia's coastlines and national parks. And of course a swimsuit for when you feel like a dip during your island adventures.

Some of our Croatia tours include visits to cathedrals and other religious sites. It's always a good idea to cover the arms and legs, and don't underestimate the usefulness of an oversized scarf or shawl. Lightweight and easy to pack in your day bag, you'll never be caught short on respecting local culture.