Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

Croatia, also known as Central Europe’s riviera, is often overlooked in favor of destinations like Italy or Greece, but we aren’t sure why. With more than a thousand islands and beaches, incredible architecture, and its own rich history, Croatia is full of beautiful sites to explore. We’ve outlined six of our favorite stops for Croatia travel from historic capital cities to coastal escapes!

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, offers a quaint cityscape full of Gothic architecture, cafe-lined streets, and town squares with local shops. Guests quickly get their fill of history and education in Zagreb. There are museums of all kinds (like the Museum of Broken Relationships, an ode to ended love affairs) as well as historical sites, cathedrals, and city parks. While in Zagreb, stay at the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel. Its grand exterior paves way for the dramatic marble staircase inside and tasteful, chic guest rooms. This luxury hotel also offers onsite dining at Zinfandel, one of the best restaurants in Zagreb.

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

Whether you want sea views or mountain views, Dubrovnik doesn’t disappoint. The “Pearl of the Adriatic” is a favorite stop in mainstream Croatia travel, and for good reason. Visitors rave about the Game of Thrones tour which takes you to many sites seen in the show, but as a hub for water travel, we also recommend visiting Mljet Island National Park and taking an Elaphiti Islands boat tour. You can even start your The Yacht Week tour in Dubrovnik, which is the original The Yacht Week route! If you’d rather stay on land, we recommend The Pucić Palace. This 18th-century palace in the heart of Old Town balances original architecture with modern decor. Enjoy the hotel’s restaurant and wine bar, and don’t forget to visit beautiful Banje Beach right next door.

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

For a fun city on the Dalmatian Coast, look no further than Zadar, the oldest continuously habited city in Croatia! It doesn’t get much better than listening to Zadar’s one-of-a-kind Sea Organ while watching an Adriatic sunset. Dine at Bruschetta for a perfect view and diverse seafood menu! We also recommend a day trip (or stopping on your way to or from Zagreb) to Plitvice Lakes National Park for splashing in waterfalls, hiking, and exploring caves. 

For accommodations in Zadar, check out Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel. This boutique luxury hotel is in the middle of everything you want to see and complete with 13 suites, a covered outdoor restaurant, and a Mediterranean garden.

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

For a totally different vibe than the popular cities of Dalmatia, Istria is your spot. With tons of wineries, olive oil tastings, colorful homes and charismatic locals, you’ll forget you aren’t in Italy. As Europe’s underrated wine country, we highly recommend taking advantage of trying local wines and visiting charming wineries like Kabola and Kozlovic. History buffs also can’t miss Pula’s arena, one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in the world built around 30 AD! For a unique and luxurious stay in Istria, Roxanich is the perfect option. It’s a family-owned winery and design hotel that feels like a resort. The 32 luxurious rooms and suites blend 60’s Italian aesthetics with unique Istrian flair, and you’ll love the sunny pool, disco club, bar and cigar lounge onsite. 

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

Treat yourself to an island stay on Hvar, known for luxury, quiet beaches, exciting nightlife, and easy access to other islands. While you’re here, stay in the heart of Hvar Town at Palace Elisabeth, hands down the best hotel in the area. Suites overlook the water and as a guest at Palace Elisabeth, you’re granted exclusive access to Beach Club Hvar with sunbeds, umbrellas, and tables available. During the day, tour the hilltop Spanish Fortress, take a boat tour to surrounding islands, visit Zlatni Rat beach on the island of Brac (it’s one of the most famous Croatian beaches and one of the only with sand!). By night, enjoy lobster pasta or seafood risotto at Passarola before enjoying Hvar’s bustling party scene.

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia

Your Croatia travel itinerary is not complete with a visit to Split. It’s the largest coastal city in Croatia, but still tends to be a quieter beach destination than Dubrovnik or Zadar, and a bit more lowkey than Hvar. From Split, you can’t miss taking a day trip to Krka National Park. Ferries will float you around the park so you can enjoy the scenery and swim under different waterfalls. During your stay in Split, enjoy new-age hospitality in the heart of Old Town at Cornaro Hotel. You won’t be able to get enough of the rooftop views at happy hour, plus it’s right next to Diocletian’s Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Site!) and other must-see historical sites in Split.

Photo: Zocha Group – The Must-See Cities in Croatia