Croatia is becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination every year. After decades of being part of the communist bloc and then mired in a bloody war in the 1990’s Croatia has now come into its own, joined the European Union and become a beloved destination on the sparkling Adriatic Sea. Be warned! The war is still in living memory of many adults, and to some the tensions are still real.
From its classic city of Zagreb to its coastal drawcard of Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia is a must visit on a trip to Europe. Medieval towns and ancient ruins sit beside modern cafés. While there are over a thousand islands and countless hidden gems, three cities—Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Split—stand out as cultural and historical focal points. Each offers something unique, from vibrant city life to coastal serenity and natural wonders like cascading waterfalls and sun-soaked islands, mostly easy to get to from these centres.
How to get there:
Croatia borders Slovenia, Hungary, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. You can book a coach from many European centres, and other cities in Croatia and other Balkan countries. I have entered Croatia from both Slovenia (travelling from Austria) and from Bosnia and Herzegovina. On Both of these occasions I entered by coach. There is a Balkans based coach network, although Flixbus also goes there from Austria (via Slovania). Buses from Bosnia are less frequent. When I was in the Balkans, I found that you usually had to pay for them to carry your luggage. It was only a matter of a few euros, however, but just make sure you have coins on you as some bus lines might not accept cards.
Regular flights to Croatia are easy to find from most major European airports. Zagreb is also accessible by train.
Accommodation can be cheap or as expensive as you like. You have a choice of Backpacker Hostels and mid to high range hotels.
Multi-Day Island Hopping Tours are available if you’re going to be there for longer and can book in advance. Shorter tours are also easy to find to places of natural beauty, history and the islands.
Zagreb: The Cultural Heart of Croatia
Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is a charming blend of old and new. In the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), you can stroll along cobbled streets to see the iconic St. Mark’s Church, with its colourful tiled roof. There is also Zagreb Cathedral. Nearby, the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships gives a modern, emotional twist to the museum experience. You can purchase a ticket in advance to this museum.
For a more relaxed vibe, wander through the lush Maksimir Park or browse the bustling Dolac Market, where locals sell fresh produce under vibrant red umbrellas. Zagreb’s café culture rivals that of Vienna, so be sure to stop for a coffee in one of its many tree-lined squares.
Day Trip Idea: Just two hours from the city lies Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of guided tours to Plitvice Lakes you can take from Zagreb. It’s famous for its sixteen terraced lakes linked by breathtaking waterfalls and wooden walkways—an absolute must for nature lovers and photographers.
Dubrovnik: The Pearl of the Adriatic
Dubrovnik is often the face of Croatian tourism, and for good reason. Surrounded by impressive medieval stone walls, the Old Town is a perfectly preserved time capsule with marble streets, baroque churches, and the grand Rector’s Palace. Walking the city walls provides panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and red-roofed rooftops that look like a movie set (and indeed, starred in Game of Thrones). Don’t miss the Game of Thrones Walking Tour!
The nearby island of Lokrum makes for a peaceful afternoon escape—just 15 minutes by ferry. It offers shaded botanical gardens, swimming spots, and even roaming peacocks.
Island Hopping: The Elafiti Islands (Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan) are easily accessible from Dubrovnik and perfect for a quiet retreat with pristine beaches and scenic walking trails. There are longer trips around the islands and along the coast if you have the time and are looking for more of a ‘done for you’ experiencen.
Split: Ancient History Meets Coastal Cool
Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and a fascinating mix of past and present. At its heart lies Diocletian’s Palace, an ancient Roman structure that still buzzes with shops, restaurants, and homes. Lose yourself in its maze of narrow alleyways before watching the sunset along the Riva Promenade, a lively seafront boulevard.
Split is also a springboard to some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Hvar is known for its glamorous nightlife and lavender fields, while Brač boasts the famous Zlatni Rat beach, whose unique shape shifts with the tide. For something more laid-back, Vis offers unspoiled nature and the stunning Blue Cave on nearby Biševo Island.
Nature Nearby: An hour north of Split is Krka National Park home to a series of gorgeous waterfalls, including the Instagram-famous Skradinski Buk, where you can swim in designated areas during summer.
Travel from Split
As with many places in the Balkans, it’s not always clear where and when the bus is leaving from. This is even the case at the Bus Station at Split. I was booked onto a bus, which the bus station worked told me was late, only to see it loading up and taking off soon after. I had actually asked the bus driver if it was going to Zagreb ( mydestination) and the answer was no. It may have been a break down in communication, but don’t be backward in asking about bus departures. I could have just been unlucky on the day, as I didn’t have this problem in any other bus station in Croatia, although they were also not as clear as bus stations in other part of Europe.
Final Thoughts
Croatia is more than a sun-and-sea destination—it’s a land where history, culture, and nature intertwine beautifully. From the Austro-Hungarian charm of Zagreb, to the medieval magic of Dubrovnik, and the Roman roots of Split, these three cities each offer a unique entry point into the Croatian experience. Whether you’re exploring waterfalls, island-hopping in the Adriatic, or sipping espresso in a city square, you’ll find yourself falling under Croatia’s captivating spell.
