Dubrovnik in Croatia is known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and is undoubtedly spectacular. However, there are several other cities that deserve to be visited. Find here the most beautiful cities in Croatia and plan your next holiday.
1. Dubrovnik
The Old Town of Dubrovnik, one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its imposing stone walls were built between the 6th and the 15th century. The Old Town is also one of the best places to stay in Dubrovnik.
The heart of Dubrovnik is the Stradun, the main pedestrian street of the Old Town, where you’ll experience a lively environment. Full of cafes, restaurants, and shops, it represents Dubrovnik’s social scene. You can learn all about its history with this Guided Old Town Walking Tour in Dubrovnik.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Rector’s Palace is a must. It showcases an exquisite blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. Nowadays, it is a museum.
For panoramic views of the city, I recommend ascending Mount Srđ via cable car. You will get an unforgettable view of the city, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands.
A short distance from the Old Town, you can relax at Sveti Jakov Beach. Another recommended activity is taking a short boat trip to Lokrum island, a nature reserve with pebble beaches and lush gardens. From there, you’ll also enjoy some of the best views of Dubrovnik.
If you are planning to tour the country, I recommend starting from Dubrovnik with this 7-day Croatia itinerary.
2. Pula
This city on the Istrian peninsula in Croatia has gained popularity among music lovers abroad in recent years. Pula is the birthplace of the Croatian cellist Stjepan Hauser, who offered concerts in the Pula Arena via live streaming during the pandemic in 2020.
Start your visit to this town with a a tour to the Pula Arena, the city’s most iconic site. This remarkably well-preserved Roman amphitheater is 2000 years old and hosts concerts and cultural performances.
Other important landmarks from Roman times include the Arch of the Sergii, the Forum, and the well-preserved Temple of Augustus.
History enthusiasts will also enjoy exploring the Hercules Gate, the Twin Gates, and the Roman Theater.
However, Pula offers more than just history. Its beautiful coastline boasts scenic beaches, such as Verudela Beach and Kamenjak Nature Park. The crystal-clear waters attract tourists interested in water sports.
3. Rovinj
Along the Istrian coastline, Rovinj attracts visitors with the cobblestone streets and quaint squares of its Old Town. At the entrance stands Balbi’s Arch. A good way to find all the hidden gems of the city is with a Rovinj Guided Walking Tour.
Grisia Street is famous for its cascading steps leading to St. Euphemia’s Basilica, from where visitors can obtain panoramic views of the town and the Adriatic Sea.
Important points to visit include Rovinj Harbor and Punta Corrente Park, highly recommended for nature enthusiasts.
Another recommended activity is taking a short boat ride to St. Catherine’s Island, offering a quiet pebble beach and home to a 19th-century fortress.
4. Zadar
Renowned for its innovative art installations and beautiful beaches, Zadar is one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia.
The Sea Organ is an architectural sound art piece that creates harmonic sounds by harnessing the power of ocean waves. Designed by the Croatian architect Nikola Bašić in 2005, it has become a major tourist attraction.
Bašić also created a 22m-wide circle paved with 300 glass plates that harness solar energy during the day. Known as The Sun Salutation, at night, it generates a cosmic light display, complementing the Sea Organ’s wave-powered soundscape. Additionally, it provides ample energy to illuminate the harbor.
Remnants of Zadar’s Roman past, such as ancient walls, a Land Gate, and the Roman Forum, are also present.
This Zadar Walking tour takes you to the Old Town, Roman ruins and the Sea Organ.
Its medieval heritage is represented by the 9th-century circular church of St. Donatus. The Romanesque St. Anastasia’s Cathedral houses valuable art and historic artifacts.
5. Sibenik
This city impresses with several UNESCO-listed architectural marvels. The St. James Cathedral is a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles.
Sibenik, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, boasts a charming Old Town. Its stone-paved streets and historic buildings are worth visiting. Among these are hidden squares where quaint cafes and local artisan shops can be found.
There are two interesting fortresses. One is St. Michael, which offers panoramic views of Zadar from the top. The other is St. Nicholas Fortress, a UNESCO site reachable by boat trip.
Enjoy a Sibenik Guided Walking Tour and avoid the crowds.
Visitors enjoy scenic views strolling along the waterfront promenade, Lined with cafes and restaurants, it offers a lively atmosphere.
6. Split
This city, located three hours north of Dubrovnik, is highly worth a visit. It holds one of the most impressive Roman ruins in the world: Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The daily changing of the guard occurs at noon at the Peristil, the central square of Diocletian’s Palace. It features Emperor Diocletian and six soldiers. The Emperor greets the public during this shift, delivering a commemorative speech and inviting guests to his palace.
The Cathedral of Saint Domnius, once a Roman mausoleum, blends Romanesque and Gothic styles. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of Split from its bell tower.
Visit the top attractions with this Split Old town and Diocletian Palace Walking Tour.
One of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia is in Split: Bacvice Beach. This sandy beach is close to the city center, favored by visitors for its shallow waters. At night, it boasts a vibrant scene with beach bars and clubs.
7. Hvar
This is Croatia’s most popular island, located 4 hours north of Dubrovnik. It is well-known for its lavender fields in the village of Brusje, making a visit there a must during the summer when the lavender fields bloom and create a beautiful and aromatic landscape.
Visitors adore the beaches at Hvar, such as Dubovica, Pokonji Dol, and Milna beaches. Nightlife at the Hvar town waterfront is vibrant, offering an assortment of bars, beach clubs, and nightclubs.
The town is renowned for its sophisticated Venetian architecture. Its 17th-century Renaissance Cathedral is dedicated to the patron saint of Hvar, Saint Stephen.
The Fortica, a 13th-century fortress built when Hvar was defeated by Venice, requires about a 40-minute hike to reach. From the top, visitors enjoy panoramic views of the town.
From Hvar, you can take a boat trip to the Pakleni archipelago. This group of islands is famous for their unspoiled nature and secluded bays. Book here your Pakleni Islands and Red Rocks Sailboat Tour from Hvar (8hours).
8. Korčula
Korčula is an island located in the Adriatic Sea off the coast of Croatia. Its town is often referred to as a mini-Dubrovnik due to its impressive medieval walls, charming narrow streets, and historical buildings.
Korčula is considered to be the birthplace of the famed explorer Marco Polo. It’s possible to visit the Venetian Gothic-style house where he was supposed to have been born, which now serves as a museum.
Another landmark in this city is St. Mark’s Cathedral. This Gothic Renaissance building houses an impressive collection of artworks.
Korčula is famed for MORESKA, a traditional sword dance unique to this town for over 400 years. It dates back to the conflicts between Moors and Christians. Originating in Spain, it reached Korcula in the 16th century. This dance remains the main tourist attraction of the island, and during the summer season, it’s held every Monday and Thursday.
The beaches of Korčula offer picturesque views, including Vela Pržina Beach in Lumbarda, a sandy beach with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
When in Korčula you can take advantage of the island’s proximity to other nearby islands by joining boat excursions to explore the archipelago, including Badija, Proizd, and Mljet.
9. Poreč
One of the most beautiful cities in Croatia, Poreč boasts an enchanting Old Town and the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica. This is a masterpiece of Byzantine art dating back to the 6th century.
The Decumanus pedestrian street traces its origins to Roman times. Its historical landmarks, along with its cafes and shops, blend ancient and modern influences. One notable landmark is the 15th-century Lion Gothic House, a well-preserved medieval residence.
Two of the most popular and beautiful beaches are Zelena Laguna and Playa Laguna, favored by visitors for their clean waters and calm waves.
The nearby Lanterna Peninsula offers a serene setting, providing an escape from the bustling town center.
A top activity in Poreč is this Panoramic Morning Cuise among the Islands with Drinks.
10. Makarska
This beautiful city is situated between the Biokovo Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, offering a riviera with stunning beaches set against a backdrop of majestic mountains.
Tourists flock to its beaches, including Makarska Beach, Punta Rata, and Brela Beach.
The town center lies on the St. Mark’s Peninsula, featuring historic landmarks such as the main square, the Franciscan Monastery, and St. Mark’s Church, which are among the most famous spots.
A beautiful seafront promenade awaits visitors, while the lively seaside atmosphere of Makarska Harbor is inviting.
The Biokovo Nature Park is located 8 km from the city center and can be reached by car, bus, bike, or on foot. It offers hiking trails and panoramic viewpoints, showcasing diverse wildlife and vegetation. You can book here a Biokovo Nature Park Tour with Skywalk.
In the hills near Makarska, there’s a shrine called Vepric. Resembling the famous Lourdes shrine, it was founded in 1908 inside a natural cave surrounded by Mediterranean plants and a nearby stream. It stands as one of Croatia’s most popular shrines and holds significant importance for pilgrims seeking spiritual healing.
11. Varaždin
Once the capital of Croatia, Varaždin is famous for its Baroque architecture, which can be admired in its well-preserved palaces and churches.
A symbol of the city’s history, Varaždin Castle houses the City Museum.
The town square, known as Korzo, serves as a meeting place for locals and visitors alike. It features many café terraces and restaurants, with the statue of King Tomislav standing at its center.
Beautiful green spaces, such as the Town Hall Park and the Varaždin Arboretum, can be found in the city.
Varaždin’s cuisine enjoys a very good reputation. Local restaurants offer traditional dishes, fresh produce, and regional specialties. Visitors also explore the local markets to taste authentic flavors.
12. Osijek
Osijek is the largest city in the eastern part of Croatia, a place abundant with greenery and boasting beaches along the Drava River, including the popular Copacabana Beach. The pedestrian bridge over the river stands as a landmark of the city.
The Old Town showcases an iconic square and Tvrda, a well-preserved Baroque fortress. There is also a beautiful Gothic-styled Cathedral.
Osijek is also home to Kopački Rit, Europe’s largest and remarkably preserved wetland. This reserve hosts numerous bird species, fish species, and plants.
13. Krk
This is the largest island in the Adriatic Sea. The town of Krk is characterized by narrow medieval streets. The Cathedral, the Frankopan Castle, and the Town Gate are iconic landmarks in the town.
Vrbnik is one of the main attractions when visiting Krk. It’s a medieval town perched on a limestone outcrop, offering a striking view above the Adriatic Sea. Here, visitors can taste a local white wine made from the indigenous grape called Zlahtina.
The Biserujka Cave attracts visitors with its stalactite and stalagmite formations. From time to time, concerts are held in the cave.
There are hiking and cycling trails that entice visitors to explore this land. Here, they can ride through lush forests or discover hidden coves along the way.
Another popular activity is taking boat excursions. This allows visitors to explore nearby islands like Rab, Cres, or Plavnik.
14. Rijeka
This is a lively city in Croatia by the sea. It has old buildings and a big harbor. People can visit Trsat Castle for great views and walk around the Old Town with its old-fashioned streets. The city has a museum about its history as a port.
For those seeking relaxation and natural beauty, Rijeka offers pristine beaches like Kostrena and Kantrida. Nature lovers can explore the lush landscapes of nearby Risnjak National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna.
Cultural events pulse through the city year-round, with Rijeka proudly wearing its title as the European Capital of Culture for 2020. Festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions showcase the city’s creative spirit and vibrant cultural scene.
15. Opatija
Situated in the Kvarner Bay, Opatija is one of the most important cities in Croatia.
Exquisite Belle Époque and Austro-Hungarian villas line the streets of the city. Villa Angiolina stands as a testament to the architectural splendor of those days. Built for a noble family in the first half of the 19th century, it features a complex of beautiful gardens and a museum.
A landmark of the city is Saint Jacob’s church, built in the 16th century. Additionally, the Church of the Annunciation, with its outstanding green cupola, dates back to the beginning of the 20th century.
Another icon of Opatija is the “Maiden with the Seagull”, a statue by Zvonko Car (1956). It stands on a promontory close to the Juraj Sporar Art Pavilion.
16. Zagreb
Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is the largest city in the country with a population of less than 800,000 people.
The city consists of two distinct areas: the Upper Town and the Lower Town. In the Upper Town, visitors can explore St. Mark’s Church, Lotrščak Tower, and the Stone Gate. In the Lower Town, beautiful parks like Zrinjevac and King Tomislav Square can be found.
The heart of Zagreb is Ban Jelačić Square in the Lower Town, a bustling spot featuring an important statue of Josip Jelačić, revered as a hero. Trams frequently pass through here, and it serves as the meeting point of the commercial Ilica Street. The square boasts old 19th-century buildings and notable attractions like the Maduševac fountain and a clock. However, the highlight is the Zagreb 360 viewpoint offering the best views from its terrace.
The Zagreb Cathedral is an iconic landmark renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture and rich history.
Near the Cathedral lies Dolac Square, the largest open-air market in the city. Open daily from early morning until noon, it’s an excellent place to explore local produce and soak in a lively atmosphere.
Explore the city with a Small-Group Zagreb Walking Tour with a Funicular Ride and don’t miss any important spot.
Zagreb attracts lovers of street art. Roaming through the streets allows visitors to discover impressive murals and immerse themselves in the city’s artistic vibe.
When is the Best Time to Visit Croatia
As with any other country, the best time to visit Croatia will depend on your preferences for weather, activities and crowd levels. Find below the average temperature for every season
Summer (June-August): This period is the peak tourist season due to warm weather and numerous events, festivals, and vibrant coastal activities. It’s ideal for beachgoers, water sports enthusiasts, and those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
Shoulder Seasons (May, September-October): These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable accommodation compared to peak summer. May and September, in particular, can be excellent for exploring without the intense summer heat.
Winter (November-February): Coastal areas can be quieter during the winter months, but inland regions, especially Zagreb and areas with skiing opportunities, attract visitors for winter sports and cultural events. It’s less crowded, and prices for accommodation and activities are generally lower.
These temperatures can fluctuate depending on the specific region in Croatia. Coastal areas generally experience milder winters and hot summers, while inland regions might have more extreme temperature variations.
