Walled cities, island hops and clear Adriatic water.
Croatia's long Adriatic coast is scattered with more than a thousand islands and some of Europe's best-preserved old towns. Dubrovnik's walls wrap around a marble-paved centre, Split grew up inside Diocletian's Palace, and Rovinj and Pula in Istria have Venetian and Roman roots. Inland, the lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice and Krka are remarkable, and Zagreb has a relaxed café culture.
Summer life revolves around the sea: swimming off rocks, grilled fish, Dalmatian wine and ferries between Hvar, Brač and Korčula. Istria adds truffles and olive oil. May, June and September are ideal, with warm seas and fewer crowds; July and August are hot and very busy, and many coastal places wind down from November to March.
Best time to visit Croatia
May, June, September.
Places to visit in Croatia
Dubrovnik: A walled medieval city of limestone streets and terracotta roofs on the Adriatic, the Pearl of the Adriatic.
Split: A lively Dalmatian port whose old town is built into the palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian.
Plitvice Lakes: A national park of sixteen terraced lakes joined by waterfalls, crossed on wooden boardwalks.
Zagreb: Croatia's relaxed capital, with a hilltop old town, grand Austro-Hungarian squares and a strong café culture.
Hvar: A sunny Dalmatian island of lavender, vineyards and a stylish harbour town known for its nightlife.
Zadar: A historic peninsula town known for Roman remains, the Sea Organ and famously beautiful sunsets.
Rovinj: A romantic Istrian fishing town of pastel houses on a hilly peninsula, crowned by a Venetian bell tower.
Krka National Park: A national park of river canyons and cascading travertine waterfalls near Šibenik.
Essentials
Currency: Euro (EUR)
Language: Croatian; English widely spoken
Plugs: Type C / F, 230 V
Driving: Right side
Time zone: UTC+1
Tipping: Round up; about 10% in restaurants for good service
Getting around: Buses link coastal towns; ferries and catamarans serve the islands
Entry: Check the official rules for your passport before booking