50 Things to Do in Croatia That You'll Never, Ever Forget

A European destination that’s rapidly growing in popularity with international travelers, Croatia hasn’t quite reached the tourism level of Italy and Greece—at least, not yet. Which is all the more reason to soak in the natural beauty, culture and seaside glamor before the crowds start to resemble that of its uber-famous neighbors. 

No doubt, island hopping and walking the walls of Dubrovnik deserve a spot on any Croatia itinerary. There are also rugged mountains, dramatic waterfalls and miles of coastline to explore. While the all-too-often-overlooked Istrian peninsula wows with its enchanting hilltop villages and wineries. Of course, you can’t pack an entire country into just one trip. But our list of 50 incredible things to do in Croatia should, at the very least, help guide the planning process. 

Jadrolinija, the main ferry company, operates regular routes between the mainland and dazzling islands. It’s your best—and, in some cases, only—bet to reach gems like Brač and Vis.

Fried calamari. Grilled sea bream. Mussels buzara. Squid-ink risotto. Monkfish stew. Octopus salad. Fresh-caught seafood is always the move in Croatia.

Virtually every town has a local market that’s brimming with fresh fruit, flowers and olive oil. It’s a great place to experience the culture.

As you've likely discerned by now, much of Croatia borders water. So, it’s a breeze to find (reputable) full-day sailing excursions on TripAdvisor.

Zagreb has a quirky side. Case in point: the Museum of Broken Relationships, which displays memorabilia from ex-lovers.

If you summer in Croatia and don't go island hopping, were you even really there? (Here's my personal guide for island hopping in Croatia.)

Test your nautical abilities by renting a boat and cruising the open seas at your leisure.

Not ready to play captain? Charter a catamaran and have a licensed skipper handle the heavy lifting, while you catch rays on the sun deck.

Rajska Plaza in Lopar and Sakarun Beach, on the northwest coast of Dugi Otok, appeal to travelers longing to build sandcastles.

The charming hilltop village of Motovun is ground zero for truffles. Shops stock all sorts of the hog-dug-up delicacy. It’s also a fixture on restaurant menus all over Istria.

The most prized of Croatia’s ancient ruins, Diocletian's Palace was built for the eponymous Roman emperor at the turn of the fourth century and designated a world heritage site in 1979.

Croatians concoct Rakija (fruit brandy aged in oak barrels) out of anything—grapes, plums, pears, apricots. When presented this high-octane spirit, reply “da.” Bottoms up!

There’s a beach called Soline Bay on the island of Krk where you can rub yourself down with mineral-rich mud. Impromptu spa session? Surely. 

We understand gelato is a treat of Italian origin, but it’s a big deal in Croatia, which shares a maritime border with its boot-shaped neighbor. Ice cream shops scoop classic flavors and contemporary creations like Kinder.

Vidova Gora sits at an altitude of 2,552 feet. The reward for trekking to the top? Breathtaking panoramas and the satisfaction of knowing you conquered the highest peak in the Adriatic.

Hot grilled corn on the cob with a sprinkle of salt from a street cart? Yes! It’s a hugely popular snack in Zagreb. 

As the story goes, in 1984 a merchant abandoned his wooden vessel in Necujam Bay. Today, you can snorkel around the shipwreck. 

Before leaving Necujam Bay, flag down the “mojito man” and enjoy a real-deal Cuban highball, mixed up right in front of your eyes by an Italian gentleman on a boat in Croatia. 

Spain and Italy aren’t the only countries with dry-cured meat credit. Istrian ham (pršut) is pretty darn delicious, too.

From pool-side family-friendly houses to a majestic stone tower palace in the country, Croatia has so many awesome (and affordable) listings.

It’s worth shelling out the extra kuna to snooze in style at the luxurious new Palace Elisabeth in Hvar or Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik.

Hailed a "nautical paradise,” Kornati National Park comprises 89 islands, secluded coves, islets and reefs. 

Bol is a favored spot for kitesurfing. Never done it before? No worries. Take an intro class at one of the aquatic activities huts.

If you’re in decent shape and have a couple hours to spare, skip the ferry and consider kayaking from Dubrovnik to Lokrum. It’s a wonderful way to soak in the scenery and get some exercise.

As its name would suggest, this crystal clear lagoon is a beautiful blue playground for snorkeling and swimming.

You’ll notice stalls selling straw hats clustered outside key tourist attractions and lining promenades everywhere in Dalmatia.

We absolutely love Žlahtina, a crisp white wine only produced on Krk. Partial to a full-bodied red? Plavac Mali is similar to zinfandel.

Walking along the stone walls that surround Dubrovnik is certainly a bucket-list activity. Wake up early and aim to be there by 8 a.m. to beat the crowds.

You know you’re in Croatia when the Karlovačko logo starts popping up on every restaurant umbrella and tables of locals are tossing back bottles of this ubiquitous beer.

It would be silly to say “don’t miss Stradun,” because you literally can’t. Stretching from the Pile Gate to the port, the limestone-paved street acts as the main pedestrian thoroughfare in Dubrovnik Old Town.

Zlarin, a tiny island accessible by ferry from Sibenik, is an unassuming coral capital. Diving traditions and the lore surrounding this Adriatic treasure dates back to the 14th century.

Distilled from marasca cherries, Maraschino punches up classic cocktails such as the Aviation. This aromatic liqueur from Zadar also makes a stellar digestif.

Peka is a beloved Dalmatian dish with meat, vegetables, olive oil and spices that’s baked under a bell-shaped dome for hours. BTW, because of how long it requires to prepare, you need to order it the night before. 

Brač stone was used to construct Diocletian's Palace and the White House! Vendors on the island marketing souvenirs (e.g., plates, bracelets, necklaces, statues) crafted from this precious material.

With its historic harbor, enchanting architecture and intact medieval walls, the UNESCO-protected town of Trogir deserves a day trip.

A konoba refers to a traditional restaurant that serves simple, authentic recipes. Think of it as the Croatian equivalent of a Greek taverna.

The perfect ending to a delicious dinner? Prošek, a sweet dessert wine from the southern part of Dalmatia.

Paddling across calm seas at night on a board equipped with colorful LED lights? Sign us up!

Whether you’re planning a cycling getaway or prefer a leisurely bike ride, Croatia offers many superb places to pedal.

Rovinj is famed for its spectacular sunsets. Sip bubbly while floating around the historic city and neighboring islands. With any luck, you might glimpse dolphins!