Tourist Attractions in Croatia

The most interesting and beautiful tourist sites in Croatia

Photos, reviews, descriptions, and links to maps

About Croatia

As an independent country, Croatia appeared on the map of Europe quite recently – in 1991. In the past, the territory of the state was under the control of the Romans, French and Austro-Hungarians, and was part of Yugoslavia. From each epoch remained iconic places and objects. The historical centres of Dubrovnik, Rovinj and Trogir will allow you to get acquainted with the history of Croatia in full. There are many UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The unique modern objects include the Sea Organ in Zadar: with its help the sea and the wind give open-air concerts. The country’s most beautiful beach is the Golden Horn, located on a spit that juts out into the sea. And national parks like Mljet are practical unspoilt natural beauties with rich tourist potential.

Top-35 Tourist Attractions in Croatia

Dubrovnik

 0/5

The fortress city is sandwiched between rolling hills and the sea. Dubrovnik was founded in the 7th century, and some of the surviving arches, churches and towers were built around this period. The fortress walls stretch for 2 kilometres. They are 25 metres high and 6 metres wide. They seem to grow out of the rocks, turning the city into a sea fort with full-fledged defensive fortifications. The walls acquired their present appearance in the 16th century.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

 4.7/5

103603 reviews

This protected area is located in the central part of the country. The lake complex was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The water is so clear that you can see the bottom and fish, of which there are many. Swimming is prohibited, as well as disturbing the natural balance of the natural landmark by any other means. Periodically new waterfalls appear in the valley. Now there are about 140 of them.

Open time

Monday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Thursday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Pula Arena

 4.6/5

58252 reviews

One of the largest surviving Roman amphitheatres. In the past it held about 23,000 people, now it holds 5,000. Up to the V century, fights were held within the walls of the majestic structure. Gradually bloody fights replaced fairs and other city events. There is a museum in the underground halls of the amphitheatre. The main exhibits are archaeological finds that tell the history of these places.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Rovinj

 0/5

Most of the houses in Rovinj’s Old Town were built in the Mediterranean style more than 100 years ago. Another important difference is the bright colours of the exterior walls. These neighbourhoods were officially named a cultural monument in 1963, and attractions are literally around every corner. Three gates have been preserved: the Portico, the Mutual Gate and St Benedict’s Gate. They are part of the fortress wall that once surrounded the city.

Trogir

 0/5

Under each ruler, Trogir, located on the Adriatic coast, has continued to develop, decorate and follow fashion. For this reason, the mix of styles on its streets is a familiar sight. Renaissance and Baroque buildings neighbour Romanesque churches, and the local cathedral is a true work of architectural art. The historic centre of Trogir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Korčula

 4.8/5

1914 reviews

This town, based on the island of the same name, is called the most “Venetian” on the Adriatic coast. It is easily accessible by ferry from various Croatian ports. In winter the resort is empty, but in summer it is filled with holidaymakers. The houses are characterised by decorations in the form of family emblems, balconies and passages. The town walls date back to the 13th century, but have acquired their present appearance after numerous restorations and rebuildings.

Diocletian's Palace

 4.7/5

75489 reviews

It was built in Split at the turn of the 3rd and 4th centuries. It was built using materials imported from Turkey and Egypt. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as the best preserved palace from the Roman Empire. The central building has a rectangular shape and is similar to a Roman legion camp. It had temples in honour of Jupiter, Vinera and Cybele. The mausoleum is well preserved.

Open time

Euphrasian Basilica

 4.6/5

3680 reviews

Part of a vast architectural complex in the city of Poreč. The basilica bears the full name “Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary” and has the status of a cathedral. A mosaic band frames the front part of the aspid. The front wall is decorated with mother-of-pearl inlays on stone slabs. The canopy over the altar was created in the 13th century in marble, and the canopy is supported by columns and also decorated with mosaics.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: Closed
Sunday: Closed

Fortica Fortress

 4.6/5

4818 reviews

It was built in the 16th century on a hill. It was rebuilt under different rulers. The period of Austrian rule was particularly significant in terms of changes in appearance. An observation post and barracks were added to the fortress. The halls contain a collection of amphorae and artefacts dating from the Middle Ages and earlier. The walls offer a picturesque view of the Paklen Islands and Hvar.

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Fort Lovrijenac

 4.7/5

7988 reviews

The construction of a fortress near Dubrovnik was necessary for defence. Cannons mounted on the walls of Lovrijenac controlled all approaches to the city from land and sea. The fortress was an extension of a 40-metre high hill, which increased visibility for the guards. The walls varied in thickness from 60 cm to 12 metres. This was done in case the fortress was captured: a few volleys from Dubrovnik would bring the territory back under Croatian control.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Temple of Augustus

 4.5/5

9807 reviews

It dates back to the Roman period of rule. The temple was built in Pula in honour of Emperor Augustus. It was part of the Triad, a complex of similar buildings that has not survived to this day. Initially, pagan gods were worshipped here. Over time, the temple came under the aegis of Christianity. After restoration in the middle of the last century, the sight was restored to its former appearance, and a permanent exhibition of bronze and stone sculptures was organised inside.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Ban Jelačić Square

 0/5

The central square of the Croatian capital. Named in honour of an Austrian general of Croatian origin. He held the title of Ban, the ruler of the country for 11 years. The square was laid out in the 17th century and was called Harmica. The area is closed to cars, but many tram routes cross here. Sights nearby: Zagreb’s first high-rise building, the largest bank in the country, Manduševac Fountain.

Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb

 4.7/5

8723 reviews

The current appearance of the theatre premises was acquired in the 1960s, while the cultural centre itself was founded in the 19th century. Viennese architects were responsible for the design of the building. This is the main theatre and opera stage of the country. Actors, singers, musicians and conductors of international renown have performed on it. Among them are Ivan Zaitz, Sarah Bernhardt and Franz Liszt. In 1995, the centenary of the theatre was widely celebrated.

Open time

Museum of Broken Relationships

 4.4/5

6750 reviews

Also referred to as the “Museum of Divorce”. In 2011, the Zagreb landmark received a prize from the European Museum of the Year award. The founders of the collection are Olinka Vištica and Dražen Grubišić. These artists were once a couple, and after their breakup they decided to preserve memorabilia – a symbol of their happy past. Gradually, the exhibition was supplemented with exhibits provided by other ex-lovers.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

Aquarium Pula

 4.5/5

9510 reviews

In 2002, the Austro-Hungarian fortress of Verudela was given over to the Oceanarium. The architectural landmark built in 1886 was restored and adapted to the new needs with the latest technology. Among the inhabitants of the aquariums are representatives of the Adriatic Sea, guests from the tropics, freshwater fish from European lakes and rivers. The largest aquarium is home to sharks. Since 2006, the Oceanarium has been home to the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre.

Open time

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Sea Organ

 4.7/5

56358 reviews

Near the harbour in Zadar, stone steps stretch for 70 metres along the seafront. They are the above-water part of the sound system, which also includes 35 polyethylene pipes. Different diameters and lengths, as well as angles of inclination, allow the force of the sea water to drive air through the structure and produce the sound of wind instruments. The architect of the landmark is Nikola Bašić.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Church of St. Mark

 4.6/5

3903 reviews

One of the oldest buildings in Zagreb. It is located on the square of the same name near the parliament building. Fires and earthquakes have caused constant rebuilding of the church in the past. The architecture features Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque styles. The interiors are decorated with frescoes depicting members of the royal family. The tiled roof of the church bears the two emblems of the triune kingdom that once existed on the territory of Croatia and of the capital itself.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Cathedral of Zagreb

 4.6/5

16307 reviews

The time of foundation is considered to be the end of the 11th century. It was built in honour of the Ascension of the Virgin Mary and two saints: Wladyslaw and Stephen. Centuries later, walls were built around the cathedral. The southern tower was used as a military observation post in the 17th century. The presbytery became the burial place of the warlord Erdödi and Cardinal Stepinac. In 1993, the image of the landmark appeared on the 100 kuna banknote.

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Saint Domnius Cathedral

 4.6/5

6908 reviews

Split Cathedral is the oldest active cathedral in the world. The former imperial mausoleum is the foundation of the cathedral. The whole complex can be divided into three parts, which were built in different eras. The Catholic attraction is located on the territory of Diocletian’s Palace. Numerous reconstructions have not touched some details: wooden sashes, Gothic altar, crypt and arks with relics.

Open time

Monday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Tuesday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Wednesday: Closed
Thursday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Friday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Saturday: 8:30 – 10:00 AM
Sunday: Closed

Church of St. Euphemia

 4.6/5

8195 reviews

It was founded in the first half of the 18th century. St George’s Church used to stand on this site in Rovinj, but it became too small for the parishioners coming from all over the area. A bell tower was built nearby, a simplified copy of a similar Venetian bell tower belonging to St Mark’s Cathedral. The sarcophagus with the relics of Euphemia is placed behind one of the altars. Marble was used extensively in the interior decoration of the church.

Open time

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

St. Jacob’s Cathedral

 4.6/5

7343 reviews

The construction lasted more than a hundred years and was completed in 1536. The dome is 32 metres high. 74 sculptures surround the altar part from the outside. Statues of Old Testament prophets decorate the baptistery. The cathedral has the status of a cathedral in the city of Šibenik. It is one of the seven Croatian churches called “small basilicas”. Since 2000 it has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Open time

Monday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Thursday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Friday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Saturday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM

Mirogoj cemetery

 4.6/5

648 reviews

Among the most beautiful cemetery parks in Europe. It was created in Zagreb in 1876. The central building of the complex is the Peter and Paul Chapel. Its architect is Hermann Bolle. Prominent Croats of different denominations are buried in the cemetery. In addition to individual graves, there are several memorials here. Among them are the Monument to Yugoslav National Heroes and the Wall of Pain, dedicated to the victims of the country’s war of independence.

Open time

Monday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Friday: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Jama - Grotta Baredine

 4.7/5

7648 reviews

The lime water has made the cave near the city a true work of art: stalactites and stalagmites have formed from its droplets on the floor and ceiling. They resemble statues from different angles. The crater is more than 65 metres deep and leads to underground lakes. Here small crabs crawl along the walls. The halls of the cave are illuminated and there is a special hiking trail for visitors. There is a museum with ancient pottery at the entrance.

Open time

Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Wednesday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Thursday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Friday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Saturday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM
Sunday: 10:30 – 11:00 AM

 0/5

The cave in the Balun Bay on the island of Bishevo is favoured by tourists because of a unique natural phenomenon. In clear, sunny and windless weather, once a day for a few hours the grotto fills with a blue glow. Boats of a certain size can go inside: no more than 5 metres in length and 1 metre in height. Nearby is the Green Grotto, another unique natural attraction.

Forest Park Marjan

 4.7/5

12349 reviews

It is believed that a park in this area existed in the time of Emperor Diocletian. It is one of the most picturesque places in Split. Its highlights include a cosy church, a mini zoo, picnic areas, jogging paths, tennis courts, cliffs for rock climbers and romantic corners. You can climb the stairs to Marjan Hill and see the surroundings: the sea, the town, Lake Kožiak, Klis Fortress and the neighbouring islands.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Mljet

 4.7/5

547 reviews

Tourists come to the island of Mljet mainly because of the national park of the same name. It occupies 5375 hectares of north-western territory, including part of the water area. It is a paradise on earth for landscape lovers: panoramic views of the coast, sea cliffs and green mountains can be seen from different points of the island. 90% of the area is covered by forests. Among them are the salt lakes, which are not fully explored natural objects.

Krka

 4.5/5

532 reviews

The National Park is spread over 109 km² between the towns of Šibenik and Knin. The Krka River valley was granted the status of a national park in 1985. Seven large waterfalls have formed on the riverbed. The flora is diverse and there are few fish species, but 10 out of 18 are endemics. Bird migration routes pass through the area. There is an ethnographic museum and two monasteries within the park: the Franciscan and Serbian Orthodox monasteries.

Brijuni National Park

 4.6/5

10512 reviews

In 1983, a group of islands in the north of the Adriatic Sea became a national park. The total area of the territory is 7.42 km². It includes 14 islands and reefs, as well as the water area. Brioni is separated from the mainland by a strait. Sea urchins can be found near the coast, which is a sign of water purity. The Croatian government is currently developing a project to turn the archipelago into a popular high-class tourist area.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Lokrum

 4.6/5

638 reviews

An island near Dubrovnik. There is no permanent population. The area is just under 0.7 km². There is a regular boat service to the mainland. The Dead Lake is a natural attraction. Napoleon’s Fort, the Botanical Garden with peacocks and the ancient Benedictine monastery are the main reasons to visit Lokrum. The stony beaches are wild, but equipped with easy access to the water.

Srđ

 4.8/5

463 reviews

Dubrovnik is located at the foot of Srdj. The highest point of the mountain is 412 metres. From here you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. During Napoleon’s time, a fortress was built on the summit. It came in handy in the war for Croatian independence. Now there is a military museum inside the fortress. The cable car takes about 3 minutes to get to the top. Alternatively, there is a 2 kilometre long hiking route.

Biokovo

 4.8/5

429 reviews

The second highest mountain range in Croatia. The highest point is 1762 metres. It is 25 kilometres long and 10 kilometres wide. The 196 km² nature park was established in Biokovo in 1981, when the territory was part of Yugoslavia. Its status was confirmed in 1998 – already as part of independent Croatia. There is a large Botanical Garden on the descent to the sea. There are ruins and foundations of buildings on the mountain.

Aquapark Istralandia

 4.5/5

10432 reviews

Modern and the first water park in Croatia. It has been operating since 2014 near the town of Novigrad. The complex includes 12 slides of different heights, almost 1.5 km of downhill pipes, the largest in Eastern Europe pool with artificial waves, a children’s pool with a pirate castle, 5 restaurants, bars, a currency exchange office, a small market. You can buy a ticket for the whole day or for half a day. Prices vary depending on the season.

Open time

Zrće Beach

 4.5/5

1801 reviews

Novalja, the town where the beach is located, is called the “Croatian Ibiza”. It is the main tourist centre of the island of Pag – with endless parties, dance music and various open-air events. In addition to discos, the beach offers a comfortable rest for lovers of active recreation. Volleyball courts, jet ski and boat hire, cafes with national dishes – all this is in abundance.

Open time

Golden Horn Beach

 4.4/5

24086 reviews

It is one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia. It is located on a spit extending into the sea for more than 600 metres. The name is due to the unusual shape of the beach. The nearby town of Bol is buried in greenery. There is something to do on the coast in any weather: water skiing, windsurfing, scuba diving, jet skiing. The beach has everything you need for a comfortable holiday, but in season it is very crowded.

Open time

Monday: Open 24 hours
Tuesday: Open 24 hours
Wednesday: Open 24 hours
Thursday: Open 24 hours
Friday: Open 24 hours
Saturday: Open 24 hours
Sunday: Open 24 hours

Makarska Riviera

 0/5

Stretches for 60 kilometres along the Adriatic coast in Central Dalmatia. Riviera is a rather narrow strip of land sandwiched between the Biokovo mountain range and the water. The resort villages here run from one to another, sometimes separated by groves. Ferries from here take you to the islands of Hvar and Brac. The climate, well-developed beaches and well-developed infrastructure have made the area popular with tourists.