How to Plan a Honeymoon in Croatia

Visiting Croatia is a romantic adventure for any couple, guaranteed to leave them undeniably loved up, not just with each other, but with the country itself, of course. 

Cascading waterfalls, gleaming seaside towns and cities, and beguiling historic strongholds galore, Croatia doesn’t fall short when it comes to offering a world of opportunity to discover with your significant other. 

And the chances are, if you’re here, ‘congratulations’ are necessary, as you’re now planning your impending honeymoon, and you’re in the right place. 

Dalmatia is one of the dreamiest destinations in Europe, and the world, with this turquoise-tinged stretch of coastline having been named the 13th-best honeymoon destination in the world in 2022, and the sixth-best in Europe according to the list. 

We’re hardly surprised with this result, as the coastline, and Croatia in particular, offers some of the most blissful areas of natural beauty and mesmerising landscapes that you can’t help but fall head over heels for. 

And home to the likes of blissful beaches, gorgeous Mediterranean weather, and not to mention some of the most famous scenes from the hit HBO TV series ‘Game of Thrones’, at every twist and turn, you’ll be kept on your toes with the wealth of beauty that Croatia has in store for you. 

So, if you’ve definitely decided to say ‘I do’ to a honeymoon in Croatia, here at Vida Villas, we’ve used our expertise of the country to compile what we feel are the best romantic places to visit, things to do, and other essential advice to consider. Meaning as you begin to plan a honeymoon in Croatia, you can create your picture-perfect experience for yourself and the love of your life.

Where to Honeymoon in Croatia

The only issue you may face with planning a honeymoon in Croatia is knowing where to begin! With almost every town and city offering something unique, eye-catching, and truly wonderful, you’ll have to decide which one takes your fancy. 

We’ve picked our favourite honeymoon hotspots in Croatia for you, each offering something for every type of couple, and you’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Island Honeymoon Spots in Croatia 

When considering the best honeymoon islands in Croatia, there are two that we hold at the top of our list:

Hvar 

One of Croatia’s most popular island hotspots, Hvar has proven itself over the years to be one of the most favourable honeymoon islands in the country. Whilst this jewel in the Adriatic may have developed a reputation to be a party-lovers paradise, don’t be fooled, for it has much more to offer than may initially meet the eye. 

With hidden bays at every corner, and stunning seafront ports dotted with white-stone, red-roofed buildings that are so characteristic of Croatia, here you’ll be charmed by its authentic Dalmatian beauty. Expect to soak up its marvellously quaint cobbled streets and Venetian architecture around every twist and turn during a visit here. 

And what’s more, you’re not short of unrivalled restaurants for a romantic evening out. Serving some of the freshest seafood and delectable local wines, you can raise a glass to your honeymoon in Croatia here in Hvar knowing you’re in one of the most beautiful islands for miles. 

Vis

Known for its laidback and easy-going attitude, Vis, one of Croatia’s smallest islands, offers an opportunity to truly connect with your partner in tranquillity as a newly married couple.

And when we say it's shrouded in tranquillity, we mean it. As this island is the farthest inhabited island from Croatia’s mainland. So, it’s safe to say that you’re a stone's throw away from the rest of Croatia’s buzzing hotspots, leaving you to revel in the island’s low-key and peaceful atmosphere.

With untouched beaches, magnificent local wildlife, and charming seaside and inland towns that scream authentic Croatian living, Vis screams home away from home with its welcoming and warming character, and you won’t want to miss it.  

And, if you’re a fan of ‘Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again’ be sure to add Vis to the top of your Croatia honeymoon itinerary, as the island was the filming location of the iconic Mamma Mia sequel!

Mainland Honeymoon Destinations in Croatia 

And back on Croatia’s mainland, there are a plethora of bedazzling Croatia honeymoon destinations to boot. Whilst you may be thinking that our two favourite destinations for a honeymoon in Croatia are mainstream, trust us, there are reasons why we’re recommending them to be at the top of your list:

Split

Split is loved for its old-world charm and diversity in its offerings. As Croatia’s second-largest city, it has been the epicentre of both development and downfall throughout Croatia’s historic timeline. With that, it boasts an eclectic mix of Roman, Venetian, and wider European influence, making it one of the country’s cultural capitals. 

Boasting perfectly preserved historic monuments and sights, if you can’t help but marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture and learn about interesting historic journeys whilst on your travels, Split is bound to have your attention. 

With some of its most famed landmarks including the Diocletian’s Palace - a 4th century AD palace built for the roman Emperor Diocletian, and Jupiter’s Temple, a fantastic temple built for the Roman god Jupiter, amongst others, you’ll love the history you can begin to unravel during a honeymoon here.

But equally, you need not travel far to uncover the allure that lies beyond Split’s historic walls. Areas of captivating scenic beauty lie nearby, including Krka National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its cascading waterfalls, and Marjan Hill, offering exceptional panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic from the confines of a wonderfully pristine hilltop. So, Split really does offer something for everyone.

Dubrovnik

Nicknamed “A Pearl in the Adriatic”, Dubrovnik has been a favourite destination for travellers all over the world for years, with the city being noted now as one of the most popular and well-known in the country. 

We can understand why the city has been donned this nickname. Its historic centre is effortlessly nestled bordering the gleaming turquoise sea, contrasting with its striking red rooftops, it truly is one of the Adriatic’s most gorgeous locations. 

Expect to weave through its cobbled streets lined with white-stone walls as you venture through the medieval old town. Here, historic architecture is found at every turn, like it has been frozen in time. If you find a couple of areas that look vaguely familiar, you may not be surprised to hear that the city was the setting for the iconic ‘Game of Thrones’ location ‘King’s Landing’. 

And adventure awaits beyond the city's fantastic ancient architecture, stone fortresses, and charming churches. Beautiful stretches of coastline home to some of the country’s most fantastic beaches are only around the corner, where you can easily laze the day away sunbathing on their golden sands or trying your hand at a water sport, such as diving or snorkelling. 

Finish your day watching the sunset behind the horizon as you dip your toes into the shallows of the Adriatic for the ultimate end to any day on your honeymoon in Croatia. 

When to Go on a Honeymoon in Croatia?

To ensure you experience your honeymoon in Croatia in the country’s prime, you’ll want to ensure that you’re avoiding peak times attracting hoards of tourists, but also arriving when you can make the most of the country’s blissful weather. We, therefore, recommend two times of year to visit Croatia for your post-nuptial celebrations. 

Visiting Croatia before the start of the summer season, either in May or June for example, will ensure you skip the crowded beaches and jam-packed streets in some of the country’s top destinations, to soak in Croatia in its natural form. The weather is just beginning to amp up at this time, so you’re guaranteed the heavenly climate that the Dalmatia coast is famed for. 

Equally, visiting at the end of Summer, from September to October, offers lesser-crowded hotspots. And whilst the weather might not be at its best, it still offers lovely, mild temperatures perfect to catch a few rays.

What to Do On a Honeymoon in Croatia 

Island Hopping 

Whether you’re planning on staying on one of Croatia’s over one thousand enchanting islands or not, we’d recommend factoring in the opportunity to explore these floating gems during your honeymoon. From tiny, tucked-away splendours to famed and fabulous isles that attract even the rich and famous, you’re in for a treat if you choose to unravel the mysteries of these dazzling islands.

And for those tempted, ferries are a frequent form of transportation for both locals and tourists alike to get around the coastline and between islands in Croatia. There are ferries that accommodate both cars and foot passengers, so should you be planning on travelling on four wheels around Croatia, this isn’t a problem. 

You can island hop around Croatia at any time of year, however, some ferry routes only run seasonally in the summer months, so this is worth researching before your arrival. The majority of large coastal settlements across Croatia offer ferries to nearby islands, meaning you’ll never have difficulty finding a ferry to some of Croatia’s most popular and beautiful isles. 

Itineraries can be found online, with Croatian Ferries offering the largest number of ferries in the country, but there are also other smaller providers that run ferries along the Croatian coast. 

Explore a Vineyard

If you consider yourself to be somewhat of a wine connoisseur, Croatia is a fabulous destination to consider on your honeymoon. Whilst it may not be one of the most famed wine territories in Europe, it is home to a scattering of beatific wineries stretching from the Adriatic out to its Dinaric Alps. 

You can sample some of the most delectable Croatian wines on offer and immerse yourself in the gorgeous countryside of Croatia’s mainland. Learn more about the country’s traditional winemaking techniques and sample some of its region's most delicious cuisine to tantalise all of your senses whilst on your honeymoon. 

And, let’s face it, there’s nothing more romantic than raising a glass with your significant other as you gaze across rolling vineyards and toast to the rest of your life. 

Visit a National Park

Boasting breathtaking natural wonders, Croatia is home to eight captivating national parks, each offering a new and equally bedazzling haven on unspoilt landscapes where you can connect with nature during your honeymoon. 

And you’re never far from one of these national parks wherever you’re staying in the country, making it all the more enticing to discover what all the fuss is about. Offering verdant green forestry and dramatic mountainous scapes, Croatia’s national parks are the ideal place to listen to the sights and sounds of local wildlife. 

Hikes are a popular activity whilst visiting Croatian national parks, and visitors can explore some of the most popular trekking paths to some of the most breathtaking vantage points, or, to even explore some of the lesser-trodden routes. 

Krka National Park, for example, is probably Croatia’s most famous of its eight parks. It’s the home of 16 blue-green gleaming waterfalls cascading through its lush landscapes. We recommend packing your swimming gear if you’re planning on venturing here, as its glistening pools are the perfect place to bathe and soak in the unrivalled atmosphere of one of Croatia’s most beautiful natural wonders. 

You can find more details of Krka National Park, including how to reach it, alongside details of other famed and fascinating Croatian National Parks online. 

Summary

With something to offer every couple, Croatia is a honeymooners paradise. Oozing with romantic destinations, from idyllic seafront ports to enchanting islands, and breathtaking natural landscapes, you’re guaranteed the most memorable honeymoon experience imaginable. We’d even dare say that there’s no better way to start the rest of your life together than here in Croatia.

If you are planning a trip to Croatia and need accommodation for your visit, Vida Villas offer a stunning selection of rental properties around the country. Alternatively, you can contact our team, who will be happy to provide any help or information you may need.