Croatia may just be one of Europe’s best-kept travel secrets.
This post is updated from an earlier post you can see here: Croatia
Located along the stunning Adriatic Sea, across from Italy, Croatia combines crystal clear water, historic towns, incredible food, and surprisingly affordable prices. While destinations like Greece and Italy often steal the spotlight, Croatia offers much of the same beauty with fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere.
I first visited the small seaside town of Brela, located between Split and Dubrovnik, and immediately fell in love. The water was clearer than anywhere I had ever seen, the people were welcoming, and every day felt like a postcard.
If you’re considering a summer trip to Croatia, here are ten experiences I highly recommend.
1. Swim in the Adriatic Sea
The first thing you’ll notice about Croatia is the water.
It is unbelievably clear. In many places you can see straight to the rocky bottom several feet below. The Adriatic Sea is also saltier than many other bodies of water, making it easy to float for hours.
Bring goggles or a snorkel mask. Some of my favorite afternoons were spent simply floating and watching schools of fish swim beneath me.
Travel Tip: Most beaches in Croatia are pebble beaches rather than sandy beaches. Water shoes are a great idea.
2. Rent a Small Boat
One of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore the coastline is by renting a small motorboat.
The waters around Brela and Makarska are generally calm, and you don’t need a huge yacht to enjoy the experience. Seeing the villages, beaches, and mountains from the water gives you a completely different perspective.
We found boat rentals surprisingly affordable compared to many other Mediterranean destinations.
Travel Tip: Bring sunscreen, water, and a waterproof phone case.
3. Take a Day Trip to the Islands
The Croatian islands deserve a spot on every itinerary.
We joined a fishing picnic excursion from Makarska aboard the Makarski Jadran. The crew caught fish, prepared lunch onboard, and stopped at several beautiful islands throughout the day.
Highlights included:
- Vrboska on Hvar Island
- Jelsa on Hvar Island
- Bol on Brač Island
- Zlatni Rat Beach, one of Croatia’s most famous beaches
If you only have time for one excursion, make it an island-hopping tour.
Travel Tip: Book early during peak summer months.
4. Explore the Coastal Walking Paths
One of the things I loved most about Brela was the scenic seaside promenade.
The path stretches along the coast and offers incredible views around every corner. It is mostly flat, making it perfect for a morning walk or easy hike.
The challenge isn’t the terrain. The challenge is resisting the urge to stop every five minutes for photos.
If you’re looking for more exercise, head inland where you’ll find hiking trails through olive groves, vineyards, and mountain viewpoints.
Travel Tip: Start early in the morning before temperatures climb.
5. Visit Krka National Park
Croatia’s national parks are spectacular, and Krka National Park was one of the highlights of our trip.
Wooden boardwalks wind through lush greenery and lead to beautiful waterfalls and swimming areas. The scenery feels almost tropical in places.
Unlike many destinations that rely heavily on disposable products, I noticed Croatia made an effort to use reusable dishes and glassware throughout the park and on tours.
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes and allow at least half a day for your visit.
6. Eat Everything
Croatian food deserves more attention than it gets.
Fresh seafood is everywhere. Local produce is flavorful and inexpensive. Ice cream shops line nearly every promenade, and evening gelato became a daily ritual.
A few foods to try:
- Grilled fish
- Octopus salad
- Black risotto
- Mixed grill platters
- Fresh figs
- Local olive oil
The seafood was excellent and the portions were generous.
Travel Tip: Many restaurants accept credit cards, but carrying some cash is helpful in smaller towns.
7. Slow Down at a Café
Croatians know how to enjoy life.
One thing I noticed quickly was the café culture. People sit for hours drinking espresso, chatting with friends, and watching the world go by.
No one rushes you.
If you’re used to grabbing coffee and running, this may take some adjustment. But after a few days, I found it incredibly relaxing.
Travel Tip: Smoking is still common in some outdoor café areas.
8. Explore Croatia’s Historic Towns
Croatia has a fascinating history shaped by Roman, Venetian, Austrian, and Yugoslav influences.
Some of my favorite historic towns included:
Split
Home to Diocletian’s Palace, built in 295 AD and still functioning as part of the city today.
Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with narrow stone streets, cafés, churches, and medieval architecture.
Dubrovnik
One of Croatia’s most famous destinations and a filming location for Game of Thrones.
Even if you’re not a history buff, these towns are worth exploring.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning before cruise ship crowds arrive.
9. Join the Evening Promenade
One of my favorite Croatian traditions happens every evening.
As the day cools down, everyone comes out to walk along the waterfront. Families stroll together, children eat ice cream, couples linger by the sea, and restaurants begin to fill for dinner.
People actually dress for the evening, leaving beachwear behind.
It’s simple, social, and one of the best ways to experience local culture.
Travel Tip: Dinner is often served later than many Americans are used to.
10. Watch the Sunset Every Night
The sunsets in Croatia are spectacular.
Every evening the sun sank into the Adriatic Sea, casting shades of pink, orange, and gold across the water.
No two sunsets looked exactly alike.
Some evenings I sat quietly with a glass of wine. Other nights I walked along the rocky shoreline. Either way, it became my favorite part of every day.
Croatia has a way of slowing you down and reminding you to appreciate simple moments.
Final Thoughts
Croatia surprised me.
I expected beautiful beaches. I did not expect to love the culture, history, food, and relaxed lifestyle quite as much as I did.
Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a solo adventure, or even adding Croatia to a longer European itinerary, this destination offers something for everyone.
I would return in a heartbeat.
In fact I am putting together a small group tour to include 7 days island hopping on a small luxury ship AND a land tour to see the historic cities and those amazing lakes and waterfalls!
For more information contact me.
