English
French
Exploring Croatia In Fall – An Unexpected Dream Vacation
When people think of Croatia their minds are usually drawn to sunny beaches, hot weather and glistening seas – the perfect summer vacation! But what if we were to let you in on a little secret; one that even the most seasoned travelers rarely know. Croatia in fall is just as spectacular as it is during the summer months and may even bring about some amazing benefits you had never considered before.
So if you’re in dire need of a getaway and desperate to see the last strokes of sun before the cold winter months hits, here’s all the reasons why Croatia is the place for you!
Croatia in fall – what to expect?
Autumn in Croatia starts around October time. Although the actual time fall begins can differ depending on where you are in the country, with the north typically seeing the first signs of fall before the south. As the season begins to change, with it goes the large crowds, scorching temperatures and green foliage.
To some this may sound disappointing, but in reality this change to the season actually brings a vast amount of benefits that could make a dream vacation. With fewer crowds, milder temperatures and picturesque landscapes – let us guide you through Croatia in fall and all the advantages an autumn holiday can bring.
Crowds
After the busy peak season of July and August, tourist crowds begin to die down in September and October. Referred to as the shoulder season, this is when businesses and workers start to slow down due to the changing weather. The coastline has fewer crowds as locals begin to move back inland and the tourists vacate home for the fall period.
Avoiding the large summer crowds can make a trip to Croatia that much more enjoyable! Croatia in fall brings quieter hotels, less people at popular tourist attractions and smaller groups on private transport and tours that certainly makes the experience more peaceful. Fewer crowds to contend with means better leisure time, especially on the beach as you can easily find spots to sunbathe in September and October when it is still warm.
It is important to note that during the summer months the influx of tourists does tend to increase the price of lodging, transport and food prices as well. So traveling to Croatia in fall is likely to save you money on your European getaway.
What is the weather like in the fall months?
Croatia in fall hosts some gorgeous weather that cannot be dismissed. Although the summer months have passed by the end of September / October, you can still enjoy the sun and the sea in warmer weather conditions.
The average temperature during the fall season ranges from mid 60s to high 70s, which is great for sightseeing, swimming and considered more comfortable for enjoying outdoor activities without the scorching heat wearing you down.
Inland is usually warmer than the coast of Croatia, but the Adriatic Sea remains relatively warm until mid-October. During the day the weather is pleasant and warm, but it may be worth bringing a jumper or light jacket to wear for the evenings as it can get a little chilly once the sun goes down. For more information on the best times to travel to Croatia, check out our blog that dives into the different seasons and the benefits that each can bring to your travels.
Be active in the fall
The fall months are a great time for active travelers who are seeking adventure. We especially recommend hiking, rock climbing or cycling during September, October and November as the mild temperatures and reduced humidity makes it easier to pursue active hobbies such as these. In particular, you’ll love exploring the national parks of Croatia as the turquoise lakes and gorgeous waterfalls transform into a picturesque autumn painting.
Water sports are still a viable option during these cooler months and due to the peak season having passed they tend to be more affordable and easier to book. River rafting, sailing and swimming are the best water activities to do during these months, as the water temperature is colder but still a refreshing escape from the sun.
If you’re looking for a more active holiday, check out our private tours that are designed to bring out the explorer in you! We have tailored adventures centered around specific activities, such as hiking tours, cycling tours and much more.
Fall in love with fall festivals
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxing, Croatia in fall hosts a variety of autumn festivals that can add an extra level of cultural intrigue to your trip. Festivals are a great way of introducing yourself to the culture of a country, particularly the local people and their cuisine.
If you’re a foodie, you won’t want to miss out on the season-long celebration, Ziganti Truffle Days. Truffle Days runs from September to November and gives travelers the opportunity to go truffle hunting, taste the perfect Croatian truffle, and take part in the local celebrations. You’ll also have the chance to taste a bunch of seasonal food like roasted goose, locally produced wine, and fresh local fish.
Other noteworthy festivals include the Kestenijada chestnut festival in October and a prosciutto fair in Istria in late October. If any of these festivals sound of interest to you, why not add them to a custom itinerary? Our travel experts are skilled in making personalized travel plans tailored to you. Contact us today to book a tour around Croatia.
Things to consider when traveling to Croatia in the fall
As the summer season comes to a close, some seasonal restaurants and bars (especially those found along the coast) can close before the fall. If you want to visit a particular establishment, it’s best to do your research beforehand to ensure you are not disappointed.
Another thing to consider is that autumn in Croatia tends to have shorter days as the sun sets earlier than it does in the summer months. In October you can expect an average of 11 hours of daylight, which still gives you plenty of time to explore and fit in as much sightseeing as possible. The nice thing about shorter hours of daylight is it gives you a better chance to experience the nightlife in Croatia and a great opportunity to witness the kaleidoscopic waters of the Adriatic Sea during a Mediterranean sunset.
After reading this guide, you will hopefully have a better understanding of what to expect when traveling to Croatia in the fall. There are many factors to consider when deciding when to travel to Croatia, but if you’re seeking a much needed getaway before winter arrives, traveling this autumn might just be the perfect escape. Regardless of when you choose to visit this amazing country, we are here to help you plan the perfect vacation!
