Breathtaking Places You Need to Visit in Croatia

Croatia is an amazing country that still remains one of Europe’s most stunning gems. This Mediterranean nation has everything from historic towns, heavenly islands, and dreamlike landscapes.

It’s a country with so much to offer that you’ll always discover something new to see, whether it’s your first or hundredth visit to Croatia.

This list compiles 15 of the most breathtaking places you need to visit in Croatia, including Dubrovnik and beyond!

Breathtaking Places You Need to Visit in Croatia

1) Blue Eye

The Blue Eye, also known as the source of the Cetina River, is perhaps one of the most photographed natural landscapes in Croatia. Surprisingly, this amazing creation remains well off the beaten tourist track.

This natural wonder is a karst spring that resembles a blue eye surrounded by a fantastically verdant landscape which only further enhances its magical atmosphere.

2) Cavtat

Cavtat is a darling little village, situated just 20 kilometers south of Dubrovnik. Beset by mountains and a lush pine forest, Cavtat is an exceptionally beautiful town to base yourself in for exploring southern Croatia.

The waterfront promenade is lined palm trees and fishing boats, while the town streets hide artisan shops and gourmet dining options.

3. Rovinj

Perhaps the most romantic town in all of Croatia, Rovinj is a lovely former fishing village made up of pastel painted houses and charming piazzas. Located on the Istrian peninsula, Rovinj is incredibly picturesque, dazzling visitors with its striking Italian appearance.

The town’s streets are lively with restaurants, cafes, and art galleries, while the surrounding area offers numerous unspoiled beaches. To enjoy some of the most breathtaking views, be sure to head up to the top of the St. Euphemia belltower!

4. Zlatni Rat Beach

Zlatni Rat Beach, also known as Golden Horn Beach, is by far one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. A symbol of Bol, Croatia, Zlatni Rat Beach can be easily recognized by its unique shape that stretches out into the Adriatic Sea.

This long, golden pebble beach has graced the covers of Croatia guidebooks across the globe and is regularly ranked among Croatia’s top beaches. Zlatni Rat can be enjoyed by heading to the beach itself, or by hiking up the highest peak on Brac Island, Vidova Gora, for the most spectacular views.

5. Zrmanja Canyon

A slice of pure, untouched natural beauty, Zrmanja Canyon is a stunning natural attraction in Zadar County. This unique landscape boasts breathtaking views over the Zrmanja River as it cuts through a wild rocky gorge.

Zrmanja Canyon makes a wonderful day trip for those staying near Zadar and is also a great stop on a Croatia road trip down the Dalmatian Coast.

6. Stiniva Beach (Vis)

One of the most famous coves on the Adriatic, Stiniva Beach is a splendid bay hidden away from the open sea. What makes this beach so special are the impressive cliffs that encompass the pebbled beach on each side.

Still relatively unspoiled, the beach offers crystal clear shallow waters and some of the most amazing views of the Adriatic Sea.

The beach can be reached from the mainland by hiking down a steep, rocky hill (about twenty minutes) or by boat. If you choose to hike down, be sure to wear tennis shoes!

7. Nugal Beach/Makarska Riviera

Nestled into the rocky cliffside of the Makarska Riviera, Nugal Beach is an idyllic, secluded pebbled bay, perfect for savoring the summer sun and crystal clear sea. The walk down to the beach is equally beautiful and picturesque as the beach itself and offers a number of excellent photo ops.

It’s important to note that part of this gorgeous beach is reserved for naturists. This section is separated from the regular bathing area by a rope.

8. Dubrovnik

No list of breathtaking places to visit in Croatia would be complete without Dubrovnik.

Often referred to as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is a medieval city that simply must have a spot reserved on every Croatia bucket list. Set on the sparkling seaside, Dubrovnik will enchant you with its twisting cobblestone lanes while the views from the old city walls will take your breath away.

The city truly is magnificent, and it’s worth taking a couple of days to enjoy it to its fullest.

9. Biokovo

Biokovo is a gorgeous and expansive nature park that sits above the gleaming Makarska Riviera. The park’s most recent feature that opened in 2020 is a jaw-dropping glass-bottomed bridge known as the Skywalk.

Set at a 1,224-meter-high-peak, the Skywalk offers a unique adrenaline rush combined with incredible views of the Adriatic Sea, including the islands of Brač, Hvar, and Korčula.

10. Trakošćan Castle

Nestled among the rolling green hills of Zagorje county, just a sixty-minute drive outside of Zagreb, lies the fairytale-like fortress known as Trakošćan Castle. Perched on a hilltop, Trakošćan Castle was constructed in the 13th century as a part of northern Croatia’s fortification system.

Today, this castle serves as a wonderful day trip destination for those visiting Zagreb and other parts of Central Croatia. The best way to experience Trakošćan and its beautiful grounds is by renting a paddleboat and bringing along a picnic for a relaxing sunny afternoon.

11. Diocletian’s Palace (Split)

Diocletian’s Palace, constructed in the 4th century, is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in the entire world. This striking palace was originally built as a luxury villa and summer home for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, but today the residence is part of Split’s core.

Made of lustrous white stone, Diocletian’s Palace glitters in the summer sun, and is quite the spectacular place to enjoy a cup of coffee while watching the world go by.

12. Korčula Old Town

The medieval walled town of Korčula is truly a showstopper. Anyone that loves beautiful architecture, unbelievable views, and amazing food will want to visit this Dalmatian town.

Known as the birthplace of the world-famous explorer, Marco Polo, Korčula is an enchanting hidden treasure filled with ancient history that will simply leave you speechless.

13. Ston

Located just an hour away from Dubrovnik, the small town of Ston is a hidden gem home to a pretty impressive structure: the Walls of Ston.

This remarkable series of defensive stone walls were originally over 7-kilometers-long, making it the longest fortress system in all of Europe. A visit to this breathtaking landmark can only be complete by sampling the area’s most famed delicacy – oysters.

14. Kornati National Park

Located just off of the Dalmatian coast, this rugged archipelago is a collection of 89 stunning islands and islets. A labyrinth of unique stone landscapes, Kornati National Park offers a tremendous wealth of untouched natural beauty and amazing views from every angle.

15. Pula Arena

Situated at the southern tip of Croatia’s Istrian peninsula, the Pula Arena is the sixth-largest Roman amphitheater still standing today. Erected under the reign of Emperor Augustus in the early 1st century, this magnificent arena is one of the most beautiful in the world.

There is more than meets the eye when admiring the Pula Amphitheater! When visiting, be sure to go inside and underneath to admire the collection of historic artifacts.

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