Choose from 95 Fun Things to Do in Croatia
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Trakoscan Castle
Set against a backdrop of hillside vineyards and lush woodlands in Zagorje, just an hour north of Zagreb, Trakošćan Castle is Croatia's best preserved and most-visited medieval castle, making it a popular day trip from the capital. The grand Gothic fortress dates back to the 13th century, but much of its current appearance is owed to mid-19th century restorations. Sculpted from yellow stone, the castle's white-trimmed crenelations, dramatic drawbridge and red-roofed towers add a fairy tale element, while the breathtaking 215-acre grounds feature a romantic landscape of English-style gardens and pretty walkways set around a tree-lined lake.
Owned by the Drašković family until 1944, the castle is now the property of the state, reopening in 1950 as a museum and fast becoming one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Impeccably restored with period-style decor, the castle's three floors display a mix of neo-Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque designs, featuring many original furnishings and artworks amassed by the Draškovićs over the years. Other highlights include the castle's eerie underground dungeons, a vast collection of 15th- to 19th-century firearms and weaponry, and painter Julijana Erdödy's study.
Owned by the Drašković family until 1944, the castle is now the property of the state, reopening in 1950 as a museum and fast becoming one of the region's most popular tourist attractions. Impeccably restored with period-style decor, the castle's three floors display a mix of neo-Renaissance, Gothic and Baroque designs, featuring many original furnishings and artworks amassed by the Draškovićs over the years. Other highlights include the castle's eerie underground dungeons, a vast collection of 15th- to 19th-century firearms and weaponry, and painter Julijana Erdödy's study.
Address: Trakošćan, Croatia
From $ 73
Zrmanja
Lying inland from Zadar in northern Croatia, the River Zrmanja rises in the Dinaric Alps and runs for 44 miles (70 km); the bulk of its course lies within the Velebit Nature Park before it empties in the Novigrad Sea after passing the cute, pastel-colored town of the same name built along its meandering banks. Along with its tributary the Krupa, the upper reaches of the Zrmanja are one of the country’s hottest spots for rafting and kayaking through its spectacular limestone canyons – in parts 656 feet (200 meters) deep – and underneath its tumbling cascades. The most spectacular falls are Veliki Buk, a crescent-shaped mini-Niagra where the pristine waters hurls itself 65.5 feet (20 meters) in two steps over a limestone cliff face; a popular hike to the falls starts at Muskovci, with amazing views over the lush Zrmanja river valley.
Practical Info
An hour’s drive east from Zadar. No previous experience is necessary for rafting trips; children must be aged six to participate and all participants must be able to swim. Safety equipment provided.
Address: Zadar, Croatia
From $ 46
Gates of Diocletian's Palace
Built as a retirement residence for the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD, this massive fortress-like palace makes up about half of old town Split. Although there have been plenty of changes to Diocletian's Palace over the ages, the original quadrant design still remains with four different gates"”the Brass Gate, Iron Gate, Golden Gate, and Silver Gate"”that enclose this walled fortress.
The Basics
Today, entering Diocletian's Palace through any of the four gates will lead you to the central square of Peristil. Each gate has its own unique architecture, and you'll likely want to experience them all.
Most tours enter through the Bronze Gate first, which is on the south side of the palace and opens directly to the sea. The Golden Gate, the largest and most ornate, was once the main entryway for the emperors. The Silver Gate, meanwhile, leads directly to the popular produce market areas of Split. Lastly, the Iron Gate houses the lovely 10th-century Church of Our Lady of Belfry.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Not just a traditional archeological site, Diocletian's Palace is an active part of Split with many homes, shops, and restaurants."¨
- It's easy to get lost in the labyrinth of alleyways and courtyards of Diocletian's Palace, so consider taking a guided tour to get oriented before exploring on your own.
- The palace's narrow streets can get jammed with tourists in summer, so visit in the early morning or late afternoon."¨
How to Get There
Diocletian's Palace is located in the center of old town Split. Most visitors arrive by car, bus, or ferry and then set off to explore the palace gates on foot. The palace is most easily accessed on foot via the Bronze gate, which is located at the eastern end of the Riva promenade.
When to Get There
The Gates of Diocletian's Palace are fascinating any time of the year. Summer is the busiest tourist season, so consider visiting early in the day to avoid both the heat and the mid-day crowds. Better yet, visit in May, early June, or September to enjoy pleasant weather but fewer crowds.
Other Attractions in Diocletian's Palace
Entering through the Bronze Gate of Diocletian's Palace, you'll find yourself in the ancient cellars where you can tour the underground tunnels and learn about their former functions. Make sure to visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius and climb to the top of the bell tower for fantastic views of old town Split. Hit up the Split Market to browse the colorful fruit and vegetable stands and catch a glimpse of local life.
Address: Diocletian's Palace, Split, Croatia
From $ 23
Zlatni Rat Beach
Zlatni Rat Beach is one of Croatia’s most beautiful and unique beaches. Located on the southern end of Brac Island, this narrow sliver of land juts out into the azure sea. Pebble beaches on both sides of this V-shaped promontory are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, and afternoon westerly winds make it a premiere windsurfing spot.
The Basics
Explore the unique beauty of Zlatni Rat Beach by setting sail to Brac Island from Split or Trogir.
Spend the afternoon sunbathing on one of Europe’s most visually stunning beaches and spy loads of fish as you snorkel in the crystal-clear water.
If you have more time, choose a tour that includes a trip to the the charming town of Bol, where you can tour a 15th-century monastery, sample local wine, and enjoy an authentic Croatian meal at a seaside cafe.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Zlatni Rat Beach is a pebble beach, so water shoes can make your visit more comfortable.
- The water is incredibly clear, so don’t forget your snorkel and fins.
- During the summer months, lifeguards are on duty throughout the day.
- Several seaside kiosks sell food and drinks and rent chairs and umbrellas.
- Make sure to have some coins, since you’ll need to pay to use the toilet on the beach.
- Watch out for nudists on the western side of the beach.
How to Get There
Most tours will deliver you directly to Zlatni Rat Beach from Split or Trogir by boat or ferry. Zlatni Rat Beach is also an easy walk from Bol and takes about 20–30 minutes following a lovely, tree-lined pathway. If you’d rather catch a ride, a taxi boat runs to the beach all day from the center of Bol.
When to Get There
If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in May and June or September and October. The water temperature will be cooler, but you’ll enjoy undisturbed views of the sea. Expect crowds in July and August, so arrive early in the day to secure a prime spot on the beach.
Other Things to Do on Brac Island
Brac Island is renowned for its wine, and there are several vineyards on the island worthy of a visit. Make sure to taste the sweet and dark dessert wine Prosek, traditionally from the Dalmatia islands. If you enjoy hiking, take a jaunt up Vidova Gora, the area’s highest peak, or explore Dragon’s Cave, a strange cavern filled with a collection of imaginative carvings only accessible by guided tour.
Address: Brac Island, Croatia
From $ 90
The Forum
Walking around Zadar’s old town, you might be surprised to suddenly find yourself amidst the city’s most historic sight, the Roman forum. Constructed between the 1st century BC and the 3rd century AD, the forum is the largest in Croatia. Today it still features remnants of an infamous “shame column” of sorts (where offenders were publicly humiliated), and a temple dedicated to Jupiter, Juno and Minerva — among other relics from the past.
Sadly, not a lot of the original forum endures, but what you can see is a healthy scattering of Roman artifacts laid out in the area in front of the Church of St Donatus (and within it, actually, as it is built atop the forum and is home to two Roman columns, and a sacrificial altar). Though Zadar’s forum may seem sparse compared to that of Rome, for example, it’s the fact that these remains very much exist among the city, and not enclosed beyond a ticket booth. This allows visitors and locals to experience Zadar’s forum to the fullest as they walk among it freely, enjoying one of the outdoor concerts, or while simply snacking on a refreshing ice cream.
Practical Info
The forum can be found in the area in front of the Church of St Donatus, and is situated near or on the way to many other Zadar sights, including the Archeology Museum, and the famous wave-playing sea organ.
Address: Poljana Pape Ivana Pavla II, Zadar, Zadar, Croatia 23000, Croatia
From $ 35
Temple of Jupiter
Dedicated to the Ancient Roman king of gods, the Temple of Jupiter was constructed in the 3rd century as part of Diocletian's Palace and is considered to be one of the most well-preserved Roman temples in the world. Diocletian believed he was the reincarnation of Jupiter, who was highly worshipped until the Roman Empire was taken over by Christian rule.
The Basics
The Temple of Jupiter may be small, but it offers a lot to see, including the headless sphinx that guards the entrance, the huge baptismal font, the many sculptures depicting Roman Gods, and sarcophagi of archbishops buried within. The temple is most often visited on a walking tour of other Diocletian’s Palace sites such as the underground cellars, the Cathedral of St. Domnius, and Peristyle Square.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Roman history buffs won’t want to miss one of the best-preserved Ancient Roman temples in the world.
- For the best deal, purchase a combination ticket for the Temple of Jupiter and other Diocletian’s Palace sites.
- Visit the Temple of Jupiter on a walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace to learn more about the temple’s unique history and architecture.
How to Get There
The Temple of Jupiter is located within the walls of Diocletian’s Palace near Peristyle Square, the palace’s central courtyard, and opposite Diocletian’s mausoleum. Diocletian’s Palace is a pedestrian-only zone, so the only way of getting to the temple is by walking.
When to Get There
Diocletian’s Palace can be quite busy during the high summer season (July and August), so visit early in the morning to escape both the crowds and the midday heat. Although the Temple of Jupiter is open year-round, it may have reduced hours in winter—be sure to check in advance.
The Story Behind Jupiter’s Headless Sphinx
The headless black granite sphinx that looks as though it’s guarding the entryway to the temple was one of 12 sphinxes brought from Egypt, as ordered by the Romans. During the fall of the Roman Empire, Christians were thought to have destroyed the head because they thought it represented a pagan symbol.
Address: Kraj Sv Ivana, Split, Croatia
Admission: Varies
From $ 24
Zagreb Museum of Contemporary Art
Opened in 1954 and originally located in a grand palace in Zagreb’s Baroque Upper Town, the city’s Museum of Contemporary Art (MSU, or ‘Muzej suvrememe umjetnosti’ in Croatian) relocated to its gleaming white, purpose-built home in 2010. The gallery was designed by architect Igor Franić and is found in Novi Zagreb, south of the River Sava and slightly out of the center of the city. Its collections are on three floors and feature masterpieces of Croatian modern art, of which around 600 examples are on display from a repository of 12,000 works dating from 1950 onwards. The sleek, white and airy exhibition spaces highlight the works of Croatian art movements that may be little known but are nevertheless worth visiting for their innovation and style. Masterly paintings by Josip Vaništa and Marino Tartaglia, and drawings by Milan Steiner intermingle with whacky installations, sculpture, videos and photography as well as computer-generated art from New Tendencies, an international art movement that had its foundations in Croatia.
Various guided tours of the treasures of the museum are available daily, and there is a sprinkling of interactive artworks that will appeal to children as well as futuristic spiral slides on which to zip downwards between floors, specially designed for the museum by Belgian artist Carsten Höller. The terraces around the museum also contain several bespoke installations and the whole edifice looks spectacular when floodlit at night.
Practical Info
Open Tue–Fri, Sun 11am–6pm; Sat 11am–8pm. Admission adults 30 KN; seniors & students 15 KN; children 10 KN; family ticket 50 KN. Admission is free every first Wednesday of the month. The museum is accessible by tram (numbers 6, 7 or 14) and many bus routes to the stop at Sopot.
Address: Avenue Dubrovnik 17, Zagreb, Central Croatia 10000, Croatia
Hours: Tue–Fri, Sun 11am–6pm; Sat 11am–8pm
Admission: Adults 30 KN; Seniors & students 15 KN; Children 10 KN
From $ 40
Zagreb Botanical Garden
Founded in 1890 and covering more than 11 acres, the Zagreb Botanical Garden is home to more than 10,000 species of plants, including 1,800 exotic plants and many native to Croatia. Designed in an English landscape style, the Garden features rock gardens, ponds, symmetrical French-style flower beds and trees and shrubs from around the world. Though not open to the public, hothouses hold tropical and subtropical plants, while more temperate glasshouses are home to palm trees and cooler glasshouses house plants that are sensitive to frost. The original Art Nouveau gardener’s lodge still stands, as does an old exhibition pavilion dating to 1891. A public lavatory and a storeroom also date to the end of the 19th century. During summer months, the Garden hosts concerts on Thursdays at 5:30pm.
Practical Info
The Zagreb Botanical Garden is part of the University of Zagreb and is located in the center of the city, just one tram station from the Central Railway Station, or a 10-minute walk from the Jelacic Square.
Address: Marulićev trg 9a, Zagreb, Croatia
Hours: Apr-Oct: Mon-Tues 9am-2:30pm; Wed 9am-7pm
From $ 54
Trsteno Arboretum
Built by nobles in the late 15th century, this verdant arboretum is one of Dubrovnik’s top tourist attractions. In addition to plants sourced from the four corners of the globe, the garden also has a 50-foot-long (15 meter) aqueduct used for irrigation purposes, a baroque Neptune fountain, and a pavilion overlooking the Adriatic.
The Basics
The Trsteno Arboretum is a tranquil getaway for travelers based in Dubrovnik. Many guided tours of Dalmatia combine a visit to the garden with trips to nearby sights, such as the walled village of Ston and its salt ponds.
The HBO series, Game of Thrones, used the gardens as a filming location, serving as the on-screen Red Keep Palace garden. For this reason, Trsteno Arboretum is often visited on Game of Thrones-themed tours, which typically go to other filming locations, such as Dubrovnik Old Town and Lovrijenac Fortress. Some Game of Thrones experiences venture as far north as Split to visit additional filming sites, such as Klis Fortress and Diocletian’s Palace.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Trsteno Arboretum is a must for nature lovers.
- Though the foliage provides ample shade, bring along sunscreen as the sun’s rays can be strong here, especially in summer.
- Pick up a map of the garden at the ticket office to help you find your way around.
- Some, though not all of the paths, in the arboretum are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The drive to Trsteno Arboretum, situated about 12 miles (19 kilometers) from Dubrovnik, follows a scenic coastal road and should take about 25 minutes. Bus numbers 12, 15, 21, 22, and 35 all depart from Dubrovnik bus station.
When to Get There
Trsteno Arboretum is busiest in summer. Yet, even in the peak months of July and August, the gardens are calm and quiet when compared to bustling Dubrovnik. They are open year-round and are especially pretty in autumn, when the fall colors set in.
Highlights of the Arboretum
Among the most striking—and unmissable—plants at Trsteno are the pair of 500-year-old plane trees near the entrance. These two leafy giants tower to a height of more than 195 feet (60 meters). Within the garden itself, you’ll find a hedge maze to puzzle your way out of, as well as exotic palms and ponds filled with fish, frogs, and lilies.
Address: Potok 20, Trsteno, Dalmatia 20233 , Croatia
Admission: Varies
From $ 67
Zagreb Eye
Reputedly the most visited tourist attraction in Zagreb, the Eye is on the highest, 16th floor of the aptly named Zagreb Neboder (Zagreb Skyscraper), a bland and utilitarian high rise completed in 1959 that was nevertheless the tallest and most modern building in former Yugoslavia for many years. The Eye’s observation deck and covered terrace are known as Zagreb 360° and give spectacular panoramas across Ban Jelačić Square to the rooftops of the upper and lower towns, the twin-spired cathedral and to the Moslavačko hills beyond.
It was closed in 1989 at the start of the Balkan Wars and did not permanently reopen until 2013; today it is a romantic spot from which to watch the sun setting over the foothills or to take photos of the spires, streets and gardens of the city. Along with information boards pointing out the various landmarks, occasional live music and board games, food and drink are available all day in the Eye’s smart, dusky-blue bar and restaurant, including morning coffee or punchy cocktails to accompany night fall over the city.
Practical Info
Ilica 1A, Zagreb. Admission adults 30 KN, children up to 150 cm 15 KN, under 150 cm go free, family ticket 75 KN. Opening hours Mon 8pm–11.45pm, Tue–Sun 10am–11.45pm. Best accessed on foot through the pedestrianized old town.
Address: Ilica 1A, Zagreb, Central Croatia 10000, Croatia
Hours: Mon 8pm–11.45pm, Tue–Sun 10am–11.45pm
Admission: Adults: 30 KN
From $ 9
Zrinjevac Park
Dotted with landscaped gardens, century-old trees, and lovely fountains, Zrinjevac Park is a popular relaxation spot for Zagreb locals. Take a break from exploring the city and stroll along the tree-lined paths or simply rest on a park bench, watch the fountains, and enjoy the aroma of fresh flowers.
The Basics
Many walking tours of Zagreb include a visit to Zrinjevac Park and cover its history: an old livestock marketplace, now park, that’s dedicated to the 16th-century Croatian military hero Nikola Šubic Zrinski. It’s a natural place to rest a bit before heading out to explore more of the city center. The park is especially festive during the winter months; in fact, it’s a highlight of many organized Christmas Advent tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A perfect place to relax after a day touring Zagreb.
- Regular concerts take place in the music pavillion—check to see what’s scheduled during your visit.
- Make sure to carry cash for purchasing refreshments or goods from the artisan booths in the park.
- Don’t miss the working meteorological column in the northern end of the park.
How to Get There
Zrinjevac Park is just a short walk from the main square and easily reachable by tram from anywhere in the city. Trams 6 and 13 will get you closest to the park if you get off at the Zrinjevac station; or, take any tram to the main square and make the short walk to Zrinjevac Park.
When to Get There
Zrinjevac Park is open to the public year-round. The sprawling plane trees provide plenty of shade during the summer months and are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights during the Advent season. In fact, winter may indeed be the best time to visit—that’s when you’ll find local artisans selling Christmas ornaments and handcrafted souvenirs. You can also enjoy live holiday music in the pavillion and sample seasonal snacks like strudel.
Festivals and Events in Zrinjevac Park
In addition to the popular winter Advent festivities, Zrinjevac Park hosts a range of special events. You can catch classical, jazz, rock, and pop concerts, plus the occasional stand-up comedian or literary talk, at the music pavilion. The park also sponsors morning yoga and meditation classes, as well as other Croatian activities.
Address: Trg Nikole Šubića Zrinskog, Zagreb, Croatia
From $ 9
Telascica Nature Park
The great outdoors never looked as good as they do in Telascica Nature Park. Located along the southeastern coast of Dugi Otok island, Telascica captivates Croatia visitors with its limestone landscape blanketed by an array of pine, olive and fig trees. But it’s definitely those waters that really seal the deal: think, quiet coves cradling crystalline bays; pebbly shorelines where you can gently wade into the sea; and sheer cliffs that drop into the blue abyss.
While there, be sure to check out one of the park’s most popular attractions, Mir Lake, a salty-watered wonder fed by underground channels from the sea. The lake is shallow, warmer than the sea, and is said to have curative powers. Then, there are also the park’s countless trails and lookout points, many of which you can tackle by foot or perhaps even by rented bike or scooter.
Practical Info
There are no towns in this corner of the island — just a couple of restaurants — so plan accordingly. The park is reachable by car from Sali (which itself is a ferry hub, and therefore easily accessible from other islands), or via boat (either rental, as an organized excursion, or your own, if you happen to be so lucky).
Address: Telascica Bay, Zadar, Dugi Otok, Croatia, Croatia
From $ 46
Zadar City Gate
Zadar is one of the oldest cities of Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline and has its roots way back in Roman times, when the first fortified walls were constructed around the little peninsula where the old town still lurks prettily. By the 16th century, Zadar was the prize possession of the Venetian Republic and its walls were further extended and modified with a series of decorative and imposing entry gates.
The main entrance to the old town is the ornate City Gate (also called the Land Gate), which was finished in 1543 and is close to Foša harbor on the southern side of the old town. Adorned with six columns supporting a pediment, the gate is classically triumphalist in style with three arched gateways – the middle one designed for
wheeled traffic and the two side gates for pedestrians. It is topped with the coats of arms of both Zadar and the Venetian Republic, with a winged lion in between as the symbol of St Mark (the patron saint of the Republic).
The other five gates into the city are the St Rocco and Sea gates – both built by the Venetians; the medieval St Demetrius Gate, which was walled up and subsequently reopened in 1873; the Chain Gate (built under Austrian rule in 1877); and finally the Bridge Gate, built when Zadar was under Italian rule in the 1930s.
Practical Info
This site is best accessed on foot through the pedestrianized old town.
Address: near Foša harbor, Zadar, Zadar Region, Dalmatia 23000, Croatia
From $ 35
Strossmayer Promenade
Running along the remains of Zagreb’s medieval defense walls and marking the southern border of the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), the Strossmayer Promenade is one of the city’s liveliest and most scenic walkways. Named after the famous 19th-century Croatian bishop and politician Josip Juraj Strossmayer, the romantic terraced promenade is shaded by towering chestnut trees and its scenic lookouts offer expansive views over the Lower Town below. The easiest way to reach the promenade is by the funicular railway which runs from Tomićeva Street, close to the central Bana Jelačića Square, and despite being one of the shortest funiculars in the world, riding the 66-meter long track is a quintessential Zagreb experience.
Although most visitors stroll the walkway to take in the panoramic views, the most atmospheric time to visit the Strossmayer Promenade is during the summer months, when the Strossmarte street festival takes over the area and the street is teeming with artists, musicians and food stalls.
Although most visitors stroll the walkway to take in the panoramic views, the most atmospheric time to visit the Strossmayer Promenade is during the summer months, when the Strossmarte street festival takes over the area and the street is teeming with artists, musicians and food stalls.
Address: Strossmayer Promenade, Zagreb, Croatia
From $ 23
Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption
With its towering spires and magnificent neo-Gothic design, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (or simply Zagreb Cathedral) is one of the Croatian capital’s must-see attractions. The imposing twin spires are 354 feet (108 meters) high, making the cathedral the tallest building in Croatia.
The Basics
Zagreb Cathedral hovers over the city, and its spires can be seen from almost anywhere in town. As one of the city’s major sights, the cathedral is included in most sightseeing tours along with other notable landmarks such as the Stone Gate, Bloody Bridge, and Ban Jelačić Square. Cathedral highlights include its magnificent architecture, 13th-century frescoes and intricate shrines, and colorful stained glass windows.
Things to Know Before You Go
- There is no admission fee to enter Zagreb Cathedral.
- Modest dress is recommended, as the cathedral is a functioning religion site.
- Attending daily Mass is one of the best ways to experience the cathedral.
- Don’t miss the tomb of the controversial Croatian archbishop Alojzije Stepinac.
How to Get There
You’ll find the Zagreb Cathedral in the Upper Town (Gornji Grad). Trams are the simplest and most efficient way to get around the city, and several trams will get you within a 5-minute walk of the cathedral. Alternatively, take the bus or the world’s shortest cable car, the Zagreb Funicular, from Lower Town.
When to Get There
The Zagreb Cathedral can be visited year-round. A great time to visit is during Mass, which is held daily in the morning and evening with several services held on Sundays and holidays. You’re free to explore the cathedral on your own when Mass isn’t being celebrated.
The Zagreb Cathedral Organ
With over 6,000 flue pipes and 78 registers, the Zagreb Cathedral Organ is considered one of the largest and most impressive organs in the world. In addition to regular organ concerts, the cathedral celebrates an annual organ festival throughout the summer. Check the cathedral schedule to see if any recitals are scheduled during your visit.
Address: Kaptol ulica 31, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
From $ 9