If you’re planning a trip to Croatia and can’t decide between Dubrovnik or Split, trust me—you’re not alone. These two coastal cities are often compared, and with good reason. They both sit along the stunning Dalmatian Coast, offer incredible history, mouthwatering food, and some of the most breathtaking sea views in Europe. But despite their similarities, Dubrovnik and Split each have their own unique charm and atmosphere.
I’ve spent time in both cities, and I can honestly say that which one you choose depends on the kind of experience you're looking for. Do you want to lose yourself in a medieval walled city that feels like it’s been lifted from the pages of a fantasy novel? Or are you more drawn to laid-back coastal vibes, Roman ruins, and a city that blends culture with a youthful energy?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of both Dubrovnik and Split, based on first-hand experience. From must-see sights and nightlife to hidden beaches and transport tips, we’ll help you figure out which city is the better fit for your Croatian adventure—or whether you should try to visit both.
Dubrovnik is one of those places that captures your heart the moment you arrive. With its dramatic city walls, sparkling Adriatic views, and winding cobblestone streets, it’s no wonder this Croatian gem has become such a popular travel destination. But when it comes to deciding where to stay in Dubrovnik, things can get a little overwhelming—especially if it’s your first time visiting.
Do you stay inside the historic Old Town for a front-row seat to the action? Or would you rather escape the crowds and enjoy sea views from a peaceful cliffside villa? From charming boutique apartments to luxury villas with private pools, there’s no shortage of incredible places to stay in and around Dubrovnik. The key is choosing the right area to match your travel style—whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a group trip with friends.
We’ve explored Dubrovnik from every angle and in this guide, we’ll break down the best neighbourhoods to stay in, what makes each one special, and share our top villa recommendations based on personal experience and local insight. So whether you want to be close to the beach, steps from the city walls, or tucked away in a tranquil hillside retreat, we’ve got you covered.
With over 13.8 million visitors having flocked to the country in 2021, it repeatedly meets the mark as one of the most popular and sought-after destinations in Europe, and given the reasons we’ve listed above, it’s no surprise why.
Whether you're planning your first visit to Croatia or returning for another unforgettable adventure, figuring out the best way to get around this breathtaking country can make all the difference. From island-hopping along the Adriatic to navigating charming medieval towns and winding mountain roads, Croatia offers a wide variety of transport options—and each one comes with its own unique charm.
During our own travels through Croatia, we quickly learned that how you get around depends entirely on where you're going, what you want to see, and how you prefer to travel—whether you're all about slow scenic journeys, quick city-to-city connections, or total freedom behind the wheel. The good news? Croatia makes it surprisingly easy to explore, with a well-connected network of ferries, buses, roads, and even domestic flights linking its islands, coastlines, and inland gems.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most popular and practical ways to get around Croatia—whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, a family holiday, or a solo road trip. From car rentals to catamarans, we’ve covered everything you need to know to travel Croatia comfortably and confidently.
When my partner and I first started planning our honeymoon, we wanted somewhere that offered it all—coastal beauty, rich culture, amazing food, and a touch of luxury without the stress of long-haul travel. Croatia ticked every box. From the moment we landed, we knew we’d made the right choice. Whether it was sailing along the Adriatic, wandering through medieval streets hand-in-hand, or sipping wine under the stars, Croatia gave us that perfect blend of romance and adventure.
So, if you’re in the early stages of planning your dream honeymoon and Croatia’s caught your eye, you’re in for something truly special. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything we learned—from choosing the best destinations, to when to go, what to pack, and how to make it magical without breaking the bank. Whether you're after boutique beach escapes, countryside hideaways, or luxurious island-hopping, this first-hand guide is here to help you plan a honeymoon in Croatia that you’ll remember forever.
The beautiful medieval city of Dubrovnik is certainly blessed when it comes to shorelines. No matter which one you visit, prepare to be blown away by the sensational sight of electric-blue waves.
Whether you’re dreaming of lazing on sugary-white sand or partying at a beach bar, we have sourced the best beaches close to Dubrovnik for you to enjoy during your visit and to include in your best places to visit in Dubronik
Beaches can be busy in and around the city and it's worth checking out the best times to visit Dubrovnik.
