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The Best Cities to Visit in Croatia this Summer
Dramatic coastlines, delicious food, a rich history and culture, as well as pristine natural beauty await in Croatia. From the shimmering turquoise waters and sun-soaked beaches to ancient walled towns and vibrant urban centers, Croatia offers a diverse array of experiences that make it an irresistible summer destination.
Here are our recommendations for the best Croatian cities to visit this summer, each with their own unique charm and allure.
Dubrovnik
Situated along the Dalmatian coast, Dubrovnik is undoubtedly one of the best cities to visit in Croatia at any time of the year. However, the Pearl of the Adriatic is at its best when doused in the warm rays of Mediterranean summer sunshine. The unique combination of rich history, architecture, and idyllic coastal setting is captivating for all.
The old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dates back to the 13th century and is filled with historic attractions such as the Rector’s Palace and Dubrovnik Cathedral. Wander through the ancient city walls that encircle the town to see the medieval fortifications that the town has as well as incredible views.
Every year, the city holds the Dubrovnik Summer Festival. This year it runs from the 7th of July till the 25th of August, with a rich and vibrant theater, ballet, opera, classical music, jazz and folklore programme all over the city.
Dubrovnik has a breathtaking coastline that boasts a wide array of beaches, perfect for unwinding by the gentle break of the waves or having a dip in the Adriatic sea. Banje beach and Sveti Jakov beach, both situated in the heart of the city, are conveniently located for visitors, with a wide variety of amenities available.
Split
Mediterranean charm, delicious seafood, and waterfront living characterize the second largest city in Croatia. Its central location means that it is the gateway to Croatia’s southern islands, which are perfect for day trips or extending your vacation.
Diocletian’s Palace, beautifully preserved Roman ruins, is another unmissable UNESCO World Heritage Site in Croatia. Explore its winding streets, which are filled with vibrant shops, restaurants, bars, and historic sites like the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and the Peristyle square. Make sure to head up the Cathedral of St Domnius’ Bell Tower for the best panoramic views of Split.
When the summer sun is shining, the Riva, the city’s waterfront promenade, is the place to be. The wide walkways are lined with colorful buildings that are home to outdoor cafes, restaurants, and bars that serve delectable Dalmatian cuisine.
Just a 10 minute stroll from the city center, Bačvice Beach is one of the rare sandy beaches in Croatia. This beach is popular and lively, with shallow waters and amenities perfect for the whole family. If you are looking for a beach that is a bit more off the beaten path, then head to Bene Beach or Trstenik Beach.
Zadar
With innovative art installations and a lively cultural scene, Zadar offers an easy, laid-back pace of life for visitors.
Head down to the city’s waterfront to experience the vibrant sounds and sights of Zadar. The Sea Organ, an innovative sound art object that creates harmonious sounds from the waves. This is one of the best spots for a Croatian sunset. Marvel as the sun paints the sky in awe-inspiring hues, amplified by the light effects from the Monument from the Sun.
The beaches in Zadar are also fantastic, with crystal clear, shallow waters. Some of the top beaches in Zadar include Kolovare beach, with fine sand and sun loungers to rent, Zaton beach, which is ideal for families, as well as Punta Skala and Podbrig, which are not as busy.
Zadar is conveniently located to take day trips to nearby attractions such as Krka National Park, which has cascading waterfalls and beautiful river landscapes, and the Kornati Islands, which are filled with untouched nature. Dugi Otok also has much to see, ranging from the famous Sakarun Beach and Telašćica Bay to Mir Lake and Telašćica Nature Park.
Zagreb
Croatia’s capital city offers a mix of historical and modern attractions and is one of the best cities to visit in Croatia to immerse yourself in the local culture. While it lacks a coastline, it makes up for it with its vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and bustling urban life.
Zageb’s charming old town has an array of historic landmarks that you can explore wandering through its cobblestone streets. Make sure to visit Lotrščak Tower, which dates back to the 13th century, and St. Mark’s Church, famous for its distinctive tiled roof.
Explore the city’s culture by visiting some of its famous art galleries and museums such as the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art. There are also frequent music festivals, film festivals, and theater performances held in Zagreb throughout the year, which provide insight into the incredible Croatian culture.
Zagreb has a diverse dining scene, seamlessly blending international favorites with local delights and flavors. Noel, a restaurant serving haute cuisine emphasizing local seasonal ingredients, has held a Michelin star for the past few years and is definitely worth checking out.
Pula
Located at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, Pula offers visitors a journey through time as well as an immersion into the food, wine, and culture of Istria.
Pula, due to its proximity to Italy, has a wealth of Roman ruins including the Pula Arena, the Temple of Augustus, the Arch of the Sergii, and the Pula Cathedral. The Pula Arena is a magnificent Roman amphitheater that is open to the public and also serves as a venue for summer concerts and festivals.
While in Istria, it is worth visiting some of the magnificent wineries and having a stroll through the vineyards. We recommend going to Kozlović Winery, where you can sample their Croatian wines and learn more about the history of winemaking in Croatia.
Pula’s charm also extends beyond its historical sites; the city boasts beautiful beaches like Verudela and Valkane, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. There is an abundance of natural beauty in the areas surrounding Pula, including Brijuni National Park, Cape Kamenjak Nature Park, and Nature Park Učka. These parks are perfect for hiking, biking, kayaking, and even cliff jumping.
Booking a trip to the best cities in Croatia with Adventures Croatia
Are you looking to visit the best cities in Croatia? Here at Adventures Croatia, we specialize in planning vacations to Croatia, ranging from customized travel plans to pre-planned private journeys taking you to some of Croatia’s best cities and the surrounding areas.
