The stunning country of Croatia Croatia completely stole my heart. I’d heard the hype — the dazzling Adriatic coastline, ancient walled towns, and turquoise waters — but it wasn’t until I set foot there that I truly understood what makes this country so special. From wandering the cobbled streets of Dubrovnik to chasing waterfalls in Krka National Park, every corner of Croatia offered something unique, authentic, and unforgettable.
Whether you're a beach lover, a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Croatia delivers on all fronts. I’ve explored the buzzing cafés of Split, kayaked between hidden coves on Hvar, and taken in sunset views over the rooftops of Rovinj — and that’s just scratching the surface. What I love most about travelling here is the balance: one moment you're diving into crystal-clear waters, the next you're sipping local wine in a centuries-old village.
If you're planning your own Croatian escape, let me take you through some of the very best things to do — the kind of experiences that made me fall in love with this Adriatic gem, and that I genuinely believe you'll never forget either.
For those seeking a beautiful place to visit that offers incredible natural surroundings and picturesque ports, Croatia is where you want to be! Its Mediterranean climate provides hot, dry summers and cold, frosty winters, making it a very popular holiday destination during the warmer seasons when the hotter weather makes for great days lounging on the beach, enjoying watersports activities, or strolling through the towns and cities.
If you are planning to visit Croatia, you’ll likely be planning what you’re going to do whilst you’re in the country. If you’re looking for suggestions, we’ve put together the list below that will guide you through some of the best things to do in this beautiful part of Europe.
I’d heard so much about Zlatni Rat before my trip, and honestly, it lived up to every bit of the hype. Known as the “Golden Horn” because of its unusual V-shaped curve into the Adriatic, it’s one of the most iconic beaches I’ve ever seen.
Just a short trip from Bol — you can even hop on a cute little tourist train during high season — Zlatni Rat is a dream for beach lovers. I spent a full day here just soaking up the sunshine, watching windsurfers take on the steady breeze, and floating in the clearest water I’ve ever swum in. The beach is pebbly, not sandy, but honestly, I found it added to the charm — plus, no sand sticking to everything!
There’s no better way to experience Croatia than from the water. Sailing along the coast was one of the highlights of my trip. I started in Split and took a charter that looped around Hvar, Brač, and Korčula — each stop was more stunning than the last.
If you're into nature, don’t miss Kornati National Park, with its untouched islets and hidden coves. For a more off-the-beaten-path vibe, I absolutely loved Kaprije — barely any tourists, just locals and that quiet, peaceful island life. Even if you're not ready to charter your own boat, there are loads of island-hopping tours departing from most major coastal towns. Trust me, this is an adventure you won’t forget.
Wandering through Diocletian’s Palace in Split felt like stepping into a living museum.
I didn’t realise until I got there that people actually live inside this ancient Roman structure — it’s not just a historic site; it’s a functioning part of the city! Built back in the 4th century, this place has it all: stone archways, hidden alleys, lively cafés tucked into old walls, and even a few secret wine bars I stumbled into after dark. It’s no wonder it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site — every corner reveals something new, and the energy inside those walls is just incredible. Make sure to take your time here. It’s not just a place to see — it’s a place to feel.
If you’re spending time in Zagreb, do yourself a favour and head north to Mount Medvednica — or Sljeme, as the locals call it.
As someone who loves to hike and breathe in a bit of fresh mountain air, this was the perfect escape from the city.
The trails are peaceful and well-marked, with plenty of little lookout points that offer panoramic views over Zagreb. Don’t miss the Medvedgrad Fortress — I stood there imagining life centuries ago, defending the city from Mongol invaders. Getting there is easy: a quick tram ride and a scenic cable car journey take you straight to the start of the trail. It’s one of those places that gives you nature, history, and stillness all in one.
There’s something special about gliding across the Adriatic in a kayak, especially when the water is as clear as glass.
I went kayaking from the little village of Veli Rat on Dugi Otok and paddled over a shipwreck from the 1980s — you can literally see it beneath you! It felt like a secret underwater museum.
If you’re after more kayaking adventures, islands like Lopud, Šipan and Kolocep offer some stunning routes along rocky cliffs and quiet bays. Some tours come with a guide who’ll tell you about the history and wildlife as you go, which makes the whole experience even more rewarding. If you're looking for something active but peaceful, this is it.
The Blue Cave on Biševo island was one of the most surreal things I’ve ever seen.
I joined a boat tour from Vis, and as we entered the small opening of the cave, the inside lit up with the most incredible neon blue glow. It’s all natural — the way the sunlight filters through the rock and reflects off the white sea floor is pure magic. The entire cavern seems to shimmer. I couldn’t stop staring.
If you want to catch it at its best, go between 11am and 1pm when the light is just right. But be warned — it’s popular. Book ahead if you’re visiting in the summer, and try to go as early as possible to beat the rush.
As a bit of a history geek, visiting the Roman Amphitheatre in Pula was at the top of my list — and wow, it did not disappoint.
It’s one of the largest and best-preserved Roman arenas in the world, and walking through it felt like time-travel. I imagined the roaring crowds during gladiator battles, the drama, the intensity — and then I looked around and realised I was standing in something over 2,000 years old that’s still in use today.
In summer, they host reenactments and open-air events, which makes the experience even more immersive. It’s a short walk from the town centre and well worth a visit. Don’t forget to grab your ticket in advance during peak season — it gets busy, fast.
We’ve only scratched the surface of what there is to do in Croatia on this list. This country not only has much more to discover, but its location means that trips to islands like Korcula and Brac are also easy to plan and allow you to see more of the country and its beautiful surrounding isles, towns and cities.
For more information about planning a holiday to Croatia, why not read our guides on the best time to visit and the best places to go in the country?
If you’re planning a visit to Croatia and are looking for somewhere to stay in the area, Vida Villas has a fantastic selection of accommodation to choose fro
