🏖️ Resorts of Croatia: 25 destinations for beaches, islands and mountains

Croatia welcomed 21.8 million tourists and recorded 110.1 million overnight stays in 2025, the country's all-time record (as of 09/2026, Croatian National Tourist Board). Demand is growing, so a hotel in Dubrovnik or Rovinj for August gets booked as early as winter.

More than 1,000 islands and three resort regions make the first choice overwhelming. One resort is cheaper, another is quieter, a third works better for a family with a toddler. We've broken down 25 destinations by what you're after, so you don't have to guess or overpay for the wrong kind of trip.

Below you'll find quiet coves, old towns for sightseeing, and ski slopes for winter. Pick your scenario and book early: in high season, rooms are scarce.

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Where to go in Croatia: a quick overview

💡 In short:

Resorts fall into three regions: Istria in the northwest, Dalmatia with Split and Dubrovnik, and the Adriatic islands.
Istria and Northern Dalmatia are cheaper; Dubrovnik and Hvar are pricier.
The swimming season runs from May through September, with June and September the calmest months.
Prices and resort data: as of 09/2026, verified on the official Croatian tourism portal.

Croatia adopted the euro and joined the Schengen Area on January 1, 2023, so EU citizens no longer need a separate visa (as of 09/2026, official ECB data). In practice, this means prices are listed in euros everywhere, and you no longer wait in line at borders within the EU.

What you're after	Resort	Why it's worth choosing
History and an old town	Dubrovnik	city walls, the old port, an island nearby
Beach and island hopping	Split	ferries to Hvar, Brač and Korčula
A trip with kids	Krk and Rab	quiet coves and a gentle entry into the water
Peace and nature	Lošinj, Mljet and Koločep	pine trees, lakes, electric cars instead of regular vehicles on Koločep
Winter sports	Sljeme and Platak	Sljeme is near Zagreb, Platak overlooks the Adriatic
Affordable and homey	Istria	Poreč, Umag and Medulin

1. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik Old Town city wall with towers

Dubrovnik preserves its medieval old town almost entirely. Cobblestone streets, palaces and churches stand inside a ring of fortifications with tall towers. The waterfront opens onto a view of turquoise sea and red tile roofs that draws visitors year-round. The surrounding area has national parks, waterfalls and wooded mountains, so the trip is easy to combine with nature.

The coast attracts with clear water and Blue Flag beaches, while hotels range from premium complexes to budget apartments. If you want to stay by the sea, look for Dubrovnik hotels on Trip.com: check prices easily by your travel dates.

Who it's for: those who want to combine an old town with the sea.
Not for: those looking for a quiet budget beach.
The catch: in July and August, the old town is packed with tourists.

2. Split

Diocletian's Palace walls in Split with palm trees

Split spreads across a peninsula in the center of Dalmatia. From the sea, the islands of Brač and Šolta come right up to the city, while inland it is surrounded by the slopes of a mountain range. The historic core grew up around the palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian, so the old streets here are part of an ancient complex with temples and colonnades.

In Split you can swim at pebble and sandy beaches, and in the evening choose between museums, theaters, and nightlife. Ferries to the islands leave from the port, so the city works well as a base for trips. Find a hotel in Split on Trip.com, where you can see prices by date at a glance.

Who it's for: those who want to combine city and islands.
Not for: those looking for a quiet, secluded resort.
The catch: in summer the center is noisy because of bars and the port.

3. Poreč

Euphrasian Basilica and bell tower in Poreč

Poreč sits on an elongated cape and looks straight out to the open sea. It is a small old resort in northwestern Istria, where the Euphrasian Basilica, the Roman Pentagonal Tower, and Marafor Square with columns from pagan temples have been preserved. Walking its streets, you easily travel back several centuries.

In summer people come to Poreč for both beaches and parties: the Byblos club is considered the largest in the country and draws DJs from all over Europe. Most pebble beaches have earned the Blue Flag for clean water. The best on the coast are considered to be Brulo, Zelena Laguna, and the rocky Donji Špadići. Check hotel prices in Poreč on Trip.com in advance.

Who it's for: those who want to combine history and nightlife.
Not for: those who value quiet after midnight.
The catch: in season, club music can be heard far from the center.

4. Umag

Church and stone bell tower on a square in Umag

Umag is the westernmost point of the country, located in Istria. It was already a port under the Roman Empire, and later the city belonged to Byzantium, Italy, Austria, and Yugoslavia, so the population and architecture are mixed. Venice is close from here, and many people take a day trip to the city of canals.

Umag's coast is rocky, with few convenient sandy beaches: most of the shoreline is taken up by concrete platforms. On the other hand, people dive, wakeboard, and stroll along the waterfront until morning here. The waterfront and old town invite a long walk, and the clubs run until dawn. Pick a hotel in Umag most easily on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want a quiet day and an active evening.
Not for: those looking for sandy beaches with a gentle entry.
The catch: there are no convenient sandy beaches, the shore is mostly concrete.

5. Makarska

Makarska square at dusk with church and mountains

Makarska lies south of Split, between the mountains and the sea. Pine forests fill the air with resin, and a promenade with shops, restaurants, and bars runs along the shore. You get clean water, convenient infrastructure, and trips to nearby islands all at once.

The shore is divided by St. Peter's Cape: the city port and yacht marina stand to the east, while the western bay is taken over by swimmers. The water here is warmer than in northern Dalmatia, and the season lasts until October. Playgrounds and attractions are set up for children. Makarska hotels on Trip.com are easy to compare by price and area.

Who it's for: those who want a warm sea and a promenade nearby.
Not for: those looking for secluded coves without people.
The catch: in August the promenade is very crowded.

6. Baška Voda

Baška Voda harbor with boats and Biokovo mountains

Baška Voda sits among vineyards and olive groves and is part of the Makarska Riviera. It is a former fishing village that has turned into a popular resort with tennis courts, dive centers, bars, and clubs. Archaeological sites from past centuries have also been preserved here.

Swimmers are welcomed by white pebble beaches, the most developed of which, Nikolina, has earned the Blue Flag. In the evening, life flows to the palm-lined Riva waterfront. Restaurants and taverns with sea views serve grilled fish, seafood, and the meat pie burek. Check hotel prices in Baška Voda on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want beach, sports, and food all at once.
Not for: those looking for a big city nearby.
The catch: there are no sandy beaches, the shore is pebble.

7. Tučepi

Tučepi panorama from the sea with mountains in the background

Tucepi is the second resort of the Makarska Riviera and a convenient base for a family vacation. Mount Biokovo shields the coast from strong winds, and the pine forests keep the climate mild. The swimming season here runs from early June to late September, and the shore is made up of fine pebbles.

There aren't many hotels, but almost all of them offer professional kids' entertainment programs. Active guests will appreciate the SKATINA sports center: tennis courts, a soccer field, badminton and basketball courts. Bikes, catamarans, and diving equipment are available for rent. Find a hotel in Tucepi on Trip.com.

Who it's for: families with children and those looking for a quiet vacation.
Not for: those who want bars and clubs until morning.
The catch: there are no discos or loud parties at the resort.

8. Rovinj

Rovinj Old Town panorama with bell tower

Rovinj is often compared to Venice: the old town houses slope right down to the water, with the bell tower of St. Euphemia's Church rising above them. The streets are paved with white stone slabs, lined with souvenir shops and tavernas calling you in. You'll easily forget you're in Croatia.

The resort's coastline is long, with both fine-pebble stretches and secluded coves for families with children. The best are considered to be the town beach Monte, the gently sloping Lone, and Kuvi, which has sports facilities. Book Rovinj hotels on Trip.com in advance: in summer, availability runs out quickly.

Who it's for: those who love historic charm and sunset views.
Not for: those who want a sandy beach right next to their hotel.
The catch: the old town has almost no sandy beaches.

9. Pula

Pula Arena: ancient amphitheater from above with seating

Pula is an ancient port in Istria where Roman monuments sit alongside hotels, dive centers, and nightclubs. The shore is mostly concrete or pebble, so pack water shoes. If you're traveling with children, choose hotels near the sandy Bijeca beach.

The city's main attraction is the Roman amphitheater known as the Pula Arena. Its walls have witnessed gladiator battles, and today it hosts concerts and colorful performances in summer. You can find a hotel in Pula on Trip.com by area and dates.

Who it's for: those who want Roman history and city life.
Not for: those who come only for a sandy beach.
The catch: convenient sandy beaches are scarce, and you need water shoes.

10. Medulin

Medulin harbor with boats and twin-towered church

Medulin sits at the southern tip of Istria, away from the noise, and suits those who want a seaside vacation. Dozens of small islands are scattered around, some with nude sunbathing. Everything is set up for a carefree stay, and the sea remains calm and turquoise.

The most popular beach is Bijeca, a long, gently sloping stretch of fine sand. Pine groves provide shade and shelter children from the sun. For active guests, there are diving centers, tennis courts, a golf club, and a riding school. In the evening, head to the waterfront with its bars and tavernas. You can compare travel insurance options in advance, before buying tickets.

Who it's for: families with children and those seeking a quiet vacation.
Not for: those who want a lively nightlife.
The catch: large hotels are few, and much of the lodging is apartments.

11. Opatija

Opatija is a small resort in northern Istria where historic charm meets well-developed infrastructure. As far back as the 19th century, Venetian nobility and Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I came here, and the first elite yacht club on the Adriatic was founded right here. Thanks to its seafront promenade and upscale hotels, the town is called the "Croatian Nice."

The coastline is divided into developed beaches, many of which hold Blue Flag status. You'll find trampoline parks, playgrounds, sports zones, cafes, and summer stages. The promenade stretches for several kilometers and is busy in the evenings. You can find a hotel in Opatija on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want history and a convenient beach nearby.
Not for: those seeking a secluded, wild shoreline.
The catch: the promenade gets crowded in high season.

12. Cavtat

Cavtat panorama with surrounding islands and sea

Cavtat lies south of Dubrovnik, about 20 km on the map, and is considered one of the most beautiful places in South Dalmatia. Its proximity to the airport makes it a convenient base for those flying in for a week. The town's long history is reflected in its architecture: you'll find Baroque, Renaissance, Gothic, and Neoclassical styles here.

The most famous landmarks are the Church of St. Nicholas, the Prince's Palace, the stone staircase up the hill, and the Račić family mausoleum. There are no entertainment centers or nightclubs, people come here for a quiet vacation. You have the town beach Ispod Gospe and the long Vela Plaža at your disposal. Hotels in Cavtat on Trip.com are easy to compare by price.

Who it's for: those who want peace and quiet near Dubrovnik.
Not for: those who need bars and clubs.
The catch: there are no nightclubs or entertainment centers.

13. Šibenik

Panoramic view of Šibenik with water and hills

Šibenik is a city in Northern Dalmatia with a charming old center, narrow streets, shops, cafes, and a striking waterfront. Based on its first mentions, it is considered the oldest city in the country. It was built as the residence of a Croatian king and later belonged to Venice, Austria-Hungary, and Yugoslavia.

The surviving fortresses are reminders of the wars with the Turks, when the city served as a bastion of Christian civilization. If you came for turquoise water, check out the town's small-pebble Banj beach: it works well for families with children. The long sandy Solaris is considered one of the best sandy beaches in the country. Hotel prices in Šibenik are available on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want an old town and a sandy beach.
Not for: those looking for a quiet family resort.
The catch: the center is crowded with tour groups in summer.

14. Lovran

Lovran panorama from the Ligani hills on the Adriatic

Lovran is one of the first settlements in northern Istria: as early as the Early Middle Ages it served as an important shipbuilding center. It became an attractive resort around the same time as Opatija, which is 6 km away on the map. Since the mid-19th century, tourism has been the main sector of the local economy.

The mansions of Austro-Hungarian aristocrats now welcome guests with excellent service. In summer, visitors enjoy clean beaches surrounded by lush subtropical greenery; in autumn, themed festivals take place; and in winter, a sailing regatta and a traditional carnival. The Wellness Medical Spa Center offers thalassotherapy, massage, and therapeutic mud treatments. Finding a hotel in Lovran is easy on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want wellness and quiet.
Not for: those who need lively beaches and clubs.
The catch: there are no sandy beaches, the shore is pebbly.

15. Rab Island

EKO RAB boat at the historic waterfront of Rab

Rab lies in the Kvarner Gulf in the north of the country. You can get here by ferry from the port of Jablanac, which is convenient for those traveling by car. At first the island seems to consist of bare rocks, but once you get to know it better, it reveals dense vegetation, fertile fields, and blue lagoons.

The island is small, so it's easy to drive around and see everything in a couple of days. The island's capital, the town of Rab, has preserved medieval monasteries and churches. The beaches here suit every taste, but the most popular is the sandy Rajska plaža: families with children and water sports enthusiasts love it. Finding a hotel on Rab is possible on Trip.com.

Who it's for: families with children and those seeking a quiet vacation.
Not for: those who want a large urban resort.
The catch: the island is only reachable by ferry, and the trip depends on the schedule.

16. Brijuni Island

Brijuni is an archipelago of several small islands along the southwestern coast of Istria. People have lived here since the Bronze Age; later the islands belonged to the Celts, Romans, and Byzantines. The mild climate and striking landscapes were valued by the powerful: Emperor Wilhelm II's favorite resort was Brijuni, and Yugoslav leader Josip Broz Tito built a summer residence here.

Stone church among cypress trees on Brijuni

Today Brijuni is known for its national park. Sitting comfortably in the cars of a tourist train, you'll meet the reserve's inhabitants: elephants, antelopes, zebras, and llamas. You can also see ancient exhibits at the archaeological museum and swim at a wild beach. Finding a hotel near Brijuni is easy with Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want nature and history without crowds.
Not for: those coming for a week of beach vacation.
The catch: the islands are a national park, so free access is limited.

17. Ciovo Island

Čiovo Island: houses on a hill by the sea

Ciovo is a quiet island in the Adriatic Sea near Split. It's a favorite with families with children: beaches with smooth white pebbles and warm, clear water are perfect for little ones to play. Locals recommend visiting from July through September, when there are no spiny sea urchins on the seabed.

When you're not swimming, you can spend time exploring local landmarks: the Monastery of the Holy Cross and the Convent of St. Mary are still standing here. If that's not enough, take a day trip to Split, Dubrovnik, or Zadar. And a modern dive center will help you explore the Adriatic's underwater world. Find a hotel on Ciovo on Trip.com.

Who it's for: families with children and those looking for a quiet getaway.
Not for: those who want an active nightlife.
The catch: evening entertainment on the island is limited.

18. Brac Island

Brac is the country's third-largest island, where green hills sit alongside cliffs and ruins of ancient structures. The island's main beach is Zlatni Rat near the town of Bol: a spit covered in sand and fine pebbles that resembles a giant tongue and changes shape depending on the wind. Locals compare the beach to liquid gold.

There are plenty of options for active recreation here: you can ride a jet ski, go paragliding, explore the seabed, and learn windsurfing. If you're tired of the beach, check out the Blaca monastery carved into the rock, the Dragon's Cave, the old Kerinic castle, and the ruins of the Church of St. Vid high above the sea. You can spend the evening at a restaurant with local wines and traditional music. Brac hotels on Trip.com are easy to compare by area.

Who it's for: those who want beach, sports, and sightseeing.
Not for: those looking for deserted, wild shores.
The catch: Zlatni Rat is always crowded in summer.

19. Krk Island

Panorama of Krk town on the island with harbor

Krk is the country's largest island, and its scenery appears in promotional photos more often than any other. Here you'll find both beach and sightseeing vacations: medieval cathedrals, ancient fortress walls, and caves with stalactites. The coastline is family-friendly: fine pebbles won't hurt your feet, and the gentle slope into the water is safe even for young swimmers.

Most of the island is covered in green hills, gorges, and dense forests that are home to hundreds of animal species. Attractions include the ruins of a Roman forum and Orthodox and Franciscan monasteries. Look for hotels on Krk Island on Trip.com, where you can also see available dates.

Who it's for: families with children and history lovers.
Not for: those who want sandy beaches everywhere.
The catch: the shore is mostly pebbly and rocky.

20. Hvar Island

Panorama of Hvar town and harbor from above

Hvar lies in the southern Adriatic and has repeatedly made lists of the world's most beautiful islands. Ancient history has left many architectural landmarks here, and the island's nature is enchanting: in June, fields in the eastern part turn purple and fill the surrounding area with the scent of lavender.

The local beaches suit those who prefer a quiet rest (Dubovica), divers (Amfora), and active young travelers (Hula Hula). In the evenings, Hvar draws visitors with seafood restaurants and clubs, and the most romantic sunset can be seen from the old fortress. You can get there by Jadrolinija ferry from Split to Stari Grad; check the schedule for exact travel times. Book a hotel on Hvar in advance on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want beautiful views and nightlife.
Not for: those looking for a budget vacation.
The catch: prices for accommodation and food here are above the national average.

21. Losinj Island

Losinj is all about unspoiled nature. People come here to escape noisy cities, enjoy pine forests and rocky coves, and wellness centers offer aromatherapy. The local coastline is rich in quiet bays, and the waters are home to a colony of dolphins that can be spotted from a yacht.

Veli Lošinj harbor with yachts and houses

The town of Veli Lošinj has an Italian feel: old basilicas, Renaissance buildings, and pastel-colored houses. The second settlement, Mali Lošinj, is proud of the bronze statue of an athlete recovered from the seabed in 1996 (as of 09/2026, Croatia's tourism portal). Lošinj hotels on Trip.com are easy to compare by price.

Who it's for: those looking for quiet and wellness.
Not for: those who want lively parties.
The catch: few entertainment options, evenings here are calm.

22. Koločep Island

Donje Čelo bay with houses by turquoise water

Koločep is a small island 5 km from Dubrovnik on the map, where people go to escape the city noise. There are no cars here: local transport means electric carts, bicycles, and donkeys. The island is dominated by ancient pines, fragrant oleanders, clear sea, and coral reefs.

Koločep's attractions include early Christian churches, the Blue Cave, and a botanical garden. Visitors have a single hotel, Villas Kolocep, on a sandy beach. The island is reachable only by boat from the port of Dubrovnik, so check the schedule in advance. Find a hotel near Koločep on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want complete quiet without cars.
Not for: those who need big-city infrastructure.
The catch: the island has one hotel, so lodging options are limited.

23. Korčula Island

Korčula Old Town panorama on the peninsula

Korčula lies in southern Croatia and is known for lush vegetation and ancient pines. The resort is known for the Kalos rehabilitation institute, which offers wellness treatments based on therapeutic mud. Equally notable is Lumbarda, a fishing village with sandy beaches that are rare for the country.

According to legend, the ancient town of Korčula was founded by Antenor, a warrior exiled from Troy. The modern resort is rich in medieval monuments: mighty fortress walls, the Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and the Gothic Cathedral of St. Mark. The island takes pride in Marco Polo, whose family home has been turned into a museum dedicated to the traveler. Korčula hotels on Trip.com are easy to compare by area.

Who it's for: those who want history and wellness in one trip.
Not for: those who need sandy beaches at every hotel.
The catch: sandy stretches exist only in a few villages.

24. Mljet Island

Monastery on the islet of St. Mary, Mljet lake

Mljet is an island in southern Croatia with a short coastline, yet one of the most popular destinations. On this small piece of land you will find traces of ancient structures (ruins of a Roman palace and a basilica), idyllic sandy beaches, shipwrecks, and a rich underwater world that attracts divers.

The island's main attraction is a national park with two large saltwater lakes connected to the sea by narrow channels. On one of the lakes sits a small island with a Benedictine monastery, which now houses a restaurant serving grilled meat and fish dishes. Find a hotel on Mljet on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who want nature and cuisine in one place.
Not for: those who need long stretches of beach.
The catch: the island is reachable only by ferry or boat, so the trip depends on the schedule.

25. Vrsar

Aerial view of coastal Vrsar with marina and islands

Vrsar is a medieval town on the shore of Lim Bay, made for unhurried relaxation. The picturesque coastline, cozy coves, and lush vegetation never fail to charm visitors. Here you will find quiet mornings and calm evenings without any rush.

In the mid-18th century, Giacomo Casanova fell in love with this place, and his house is now considered a local landmark. In July, a festival in his honor celebrates love. Vrsar's beaches are covered with pebbles or concrete platforms, but they are equipped with gear and playgrounds. Coastal reefs and shipwrecks attract divers, and on one of the archipelago's islands stands the large Koversada complex with a secluded nudist beach. Hotel prices in Vrsar are available on Trip.com.

Who it's for: those who value quiet and nature.
Not for: those who need clubs and a wide choice of lodging.
The catch: there are no sandy beaches; the shore is pebbly or concrete.

Resorts with sandy beaches

sandy beach with straw umbrellas and loungers by the sea

The Adriatic coast is recognized year after year as one of the cleanest in Europe. Contrary to the idea that the shores here are only concrete or pebble, several resorts are ready to offer sandy beaches. You should look for them in specific spots along the coast, not everywhere.

The island of Brač is known not only for its scenic views: in its southern part lies Zlatni Rat, a spit of sand and fine pebbles that changes shape depending on the wind. The island of Rab is also generous with sand: the best beaches stretch near the village of Lopar, and the most recognizable of them, Rajska plaža, offers many coves and a gentle entry into the sea.

Sandy patches also hide among the usual pebble shores of Dalmatia. Those who like to enter the water without risking their feet will enjoy Bacvice in Split, the pine-surrounded Uvala in Dubrovnik, and Punta Rata in Brela on the Makarska Riviera.

Which one to choose for a family vacation with kids

The mild climate, short flight, warm sea, and amusement parks make Croatia a convenient country for a family vacation with kids. Little ones do well in quiet coves with a gentle entry, while teenagers find resorts with excursions and sports more interesting.

Parents with small children should take a closer look at the islands of Krk and Rab: they have quiet coves and a gentle entry into the water. Rab has sandy beaches, while Krk's shore is mostly pebble. Split, Šibenik, Makarska, and Baška Voda also work well: these stretches of coast have playgrounds, and large pine trees provide natural shade. The water in southern Dalmatia stays warm longer, so you can swim with kids even in September.

Families with teenagers will like resorts where the beach combines with excursions and active games. One of the best options is Dubrovnik with its scenic shore, old port, and a spacious aquarium inside the walls of the Fortress of St. John. If your child is interested in history, head to medieval Poreč and combine the sea with walks around the city. Teenagers will also be interested in Istria with its Dinosaur Park and Baredine Cave, and you can relax after a walk on the beaches of Medulin. For trips and tickets within the country, tours and cruises on Tiqets will come in handy, for example a cruise with a stop in Dubrovnik.

Ski resorts

Snow-covered slope of Platak resort in the morning

Croatia is associated with summer sun, but there are conditions for winter here too. In December, the season that ski enthusiasts wait for begins in the mountains. The country's ski resorts attract visitors with low prices, well-equipped slopes, and scenic landscapes.

Sljeme is the most famous spot for slalom skiers, located on the mountain of the same name near Zagreb. The slopes here suit both beginners and professionals: on site there are hotels, cafes, equipment rental, chairlifts, and surface lifts. Bjelolasica is not only a resort but also an Olympic center: experienced skiers are offered red and black runs, while short and gentle slopes are prepared for children and beginners. You can spend the evening in a restaurant or bar.

Platak operates as a recreation park in summer and turns into a developing ski resort in winter. Here you can use several runs, one of which is lit at night, and there is a separate track for sledding. A separate reason to come up here is the panorama of the Adriatic Sea that opens from the summit.

Best time to visit

Gold pocket watch with chain on an old book

The tourist season in the country lasts all year round, so you choose the best time for your vacation based on your interests. Swimming and sunbathing enthusiasts come to Adriatic resorts from May to September. The hottest month is August, when the air heats up and the sea becomes really warm. The sea breeze, typical of the entire coast, helps you handle the midday heat easily.

With the arrival of autumn, tourist life does not come to a halt. The absence of exhausting heat and comfortable temperatures create good conditions for wellness vacations. The healing air of pine forests, numerous health centers, mud and thermal springs all contribute to this. In the center of the country, not far from Zagreb, lies the town of Ivanić Grad, known for its naphthalan deposit. This is a thick liquid with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, used for skin problems and musculoskeletal disorders.

From December to March, Croatia's guests are alpine skiing enthusiasts. The mountains stay below freezing, and a stable snow cover is ensured by artificial snow generators. If you are planning a winter trip, bring warm clothes and check slope conditions before you leave.

⁉️🤔 Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to go to Croatia?

The swimming season on the Adriatic lasts from May to September, but the most comfortable month is June: the sea is already warm and the beaches are less crowded. August is the hottest and busiest. If you want to combine swimming and relaxed walks, choose early autumn.

Do I need a visa and what currency is used in Croatia?

Croatia is part of the EU, the Schengen Area, and the eurozone, so EU citizens do not need a visa, and payments are made in euros (as of 09/2026, European Central Bank). Tourists from other countries should check entry rules in advance. Exchange offices and kuna are no longer needed, prices are listed in euros everywhere, and cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Where are the sandy beaches in Croatia?

There are few sandy beaches; most of the coast is pebble or concrete. The main ones are Zlatni Rat on Brač and Rajska plaža on Rab. On the mainland, sand appears in isolated spots, such as Bijeca in Medulin and Solaris in Šibenik.

Which resort should I choose for a family vacation with kids?

For families with small children, the islands of Krk and Rab are a good fit, with quiet coves and a gentle entry into the water. Teenagers find Dubrovnik and Poreč more interesting, with their excursions. Check the depth and water entry at your specific hotel in advance.

How do I get to the islands?

Ferries and catamarans run to the islands, most often from Split and the port of Dubrovnik. To Hvar, a Jadrolinija ferry leaves from Split to Stari Grad, while Brač and Korčula are easy to reach from the same port. It is better to book a car spot in advance; in season, spaces run out quickly. The schedule depends on the weather, so check it before your trip.

Is Croatia expensive to vacation in?

Prices depend on the region and season. Istria and Northern Dalmatia are the cheapest, while Dubrovnik and Hvar are more expensive. In high season, accommodation and restaurants are noticeably pricier than in June or September. If you are traveling as a family, compare apartments with hotels: it is often better for your budget.

In short: what to book

Choose a resort based on your needs, not at random. Families with small children will do well in Krk or Rab; history lovers in Dubrovnik and Split. For peace and quiet, head to Lošinj, Mljet, or Koločep; for savings, go to Istria.

Book in advance: finding a hotel on Trip.com and choosing excursions is convenient before your trip.

And comparing flight tickets is worth doing early, while prices are lower.

Where to go in Croatia: 25 resorts for beaches, islands and mountains