Top five things to do in Croatia

Croatia is fast becoming one of Europe’s most popular destinations, with its glorious beaches, picturesque villages and sublime Game-of-Thrones scenery. Here are some of our favourite things to do.

1. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park

With a rightful place on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, Plitvice Lakes National Park is perhaps Croatia’s best-known natural attraction. What you’ll see is not one, not two, but 16 small lakes joined by cascading waterfalls and surrounded by lush forests of beech, fir and spruce. When it comes to wildlife, the park is simply bursting at the seams. It is home to several species of amphibians and many different types of bird and mammals ranging from wild boar to deer.

Explore this UNESCO-listed paradise and take a cruise across the largest lake in the park on our Croatia’s Istrian Coast holiday.

2. Explore Krka National Park

For another great day out, head to Krka National Park. Its foremost attraction is the magnificent waterfalls carved through limestone hills. The most famous are the Skradinski Buk waterfalls, 17 separate falls, which tumble into a natural pool that’s open for bathing in the summer months. The park’s flora and fauna are also of note, with more than 800 different types of plants identified in the area, and more than 200 types of bird seen here.

Admire the waterfalls on our Croatia & the Makarska Riviera holiday.

3. Discover Dubrovnik

Without a doubt, Dubrovnik is the superstar of the Croatian coast. Living up to all the hype, its intriguing Old Town, polished marbled streets and formidable city walls are a delight to explore. Revamped by Baroque architects following a devastating earthquake in 1667, and damaged again during the 1991-2 siege, you’ll see when you visit that Dubrovnik is more than back to its former medieval glory. Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town and enjoy the views from above by taking a cable car up Srd Hill.

Step back in time in this exceptional city on our Deluxe Dubrovnik & The Dalmatian Coast holiday.

4. Head to Hvar

If you’re looking for a touch of luxury, head to the swanky island of Hvar. This beauty spot – whose main town is also called Hvar – is a real head-turner, and you’ll want to be on deck as you sail towards it. Take in views of lavender fields, ancient olive groves and a harbour lined by sleek yachts. Once ashore, discover a striking cathedral, then relax in one of the chic bars or restaurants.

Discover Hvar on our Croatian Island Explorer holiday.

5. Cruise to the Elafiti Islands

The Elafiti Islands are unspoilt gems with beautiful beaches lapped by crystal-clear waters, and a cruise to this archipelago northwest of Dubrovnik is something you won’t want to miss. Just three of the 14 islands are inhabited – Koločep, Lopud and Šipan – but with fewer than 1,000 people permanently living there, there’s plenty of room for visitors. Cruising aboard Karaka, a magnificent replica of a traditional ship, you’ll visit Šipan, where you can marvel at the Renaissance villas built by Dubrovnik's wealthiest families, and Lopud, where a Franciscan monastery affords gorgeous views over the islands.

Enjoy a cruise to the Elafiti Islands on our Deluxe Dubrovnik & The Dalmatian Coast holiday.

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  1. Croatia's Istrian Coast

    Istria is Croatia's beautiful northern region, boasting a brilliant combination of intriguing history, idyllic scenery and picturesque coastlines – discover it all from your seafront hotel.

    • Return flights
    • 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
    • 15 meals: 7 breakfasts,1 lunch, 7 dinners

    8 days from
    £1,749
    was £1,849
    Explore

  2. Croatia & the Makarska Riviera

    Soak up the beauty of Croatia’s coast, explore the ancient walled cities of Zadar and Dubrovnik and discover the idyllic island of Brac.

    • Return flights
    • 7 nights in a 4-star hotel
    • 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners

    8 days from
    £2,049
    Explore

  3. Croatian Island Explorer

    From chic towns and secluded beaches to exquisite wine and delicious cuisine, discover it all on this island-hopping cruise.

    • Return flights
    • 7 nights on board MV Paradis
    • 17 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners

    8 days from
    £3,124
    was £3,299
    Explore

  4. Deluxe Dubrovnik & The Dalmatian Coast

    Discover historic cities, towns and beaches along the rugged Dalmatian Coast and soak up stunning scenery on a visit to Kotor, in neighbouring Montenegro.

    • Return flights
    • 7 nights in a 5-star hotel
    • 15 included meals: 7 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners

    8 days from
    £2,524
    was £2,649
    Explore