Croatia Vacation, Tours & Travel Experiences
Our Croatia Vacations and Tours
Croatia is relatively new as a worldwide tourist destination which is surprising considering the attraction of its spectacular coastal scenery and its long and interesting history, perfect for a Croatia vacation. It is situated on the east side of the Adriatic Sea to the east of Italy and borders Slovenia to the north-west, Hungary to the north, Bosnia and Herzegovina to the south-east, Serbia in the east and Montenegro to the south. It was part of the original Yugoslavia. Tourism accounts for up to 20% of Croatian GDP. The bulk of the tourist industry is concentrated along the Adriatic Sea coast. It is ranked as the 18th most popular tourist destination in the world.
Croatia Travel Information
Croatia Geography
The country is geographically diverse with flat agricultural plains along the Hungarian border and low mountains and highlands near the Adriatic coastline and islands. There are 1,246 islands dotted around the Adriatic coastline. The largest ones are Krk and Cres.
Croatia Weather
Northern Croatia has a temperate continental climate whereas the central and upland regions have a mountainous climate. The entire Adriatic coast has a pleasant Mediterranean climate, perfect for a Croatia vacation. Spring and Fall are mild along the coast.
Croatia Culture
Croatia is a land with a rich cultural heritage which is certainly discovered in the numerous museums, galleries and churches, but also, where even the shortest stroll becomes a journey through thousands of years of history which has been, at times, turbulent and exciting. On a Croatia vacation, whether walking through narrow white stone streets and alleys or climbing the green slopes of Central Croatia to the fairy-like fortresses and castles, each step is an ever new experience. Croatia is also a land of urban culture which numbers more cities than any other part of the Mediterranean.
Because of its geographic position, Croatia represents a blend of four different cultural spheres. It has been influenced by both western and eastern cultures. There are, in total, seven UNESCO world heritage sites.
Croatia Cuisine
Croatian traditional cuisine varies from one region to another. Dalmatia and Istria draw upon Italian and other Mediterranean cuisines which feature various seafood, cooked vegetables and pasta dishes as well as condiments such as olive oil and garlic. The continental cuisine is heavily influenced by Hungarian, Austrian and Turkish cuisine which includes meats, freshwater fish and vegetable dishes. There are three distinct wine-producing regions in Croatia. The continental region in the north-east of the country, especially Slavonia is capable of producing premium wines, particularly whites. Along the north coast, Istrian and Krk wines are similar to those produced in neighbouring Italy, while further south, in Dalmatia, Mediterranean-style red wines are the norm.
Top places to visit on a Croatia Trip
Zagreb
Zagreb, the capital, is a vibrant city. It has a charming medieval' old city with architecture and cobbled streets reminiscent of Vienna, Budapest, Prague and other Central-European capitals.Although not on the coast, Zagreb is well worth spending time in. It offers visitors pleasant walks through its many parks and pedestrian-only areas. The centre has two interesting parts. There is Upper Town, as it is known, which is the historical area dating back 1,000 years with charming medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and baroque churches. Lower Town is where you will find shops, restaurants, cafes and bars plus an antiques market and fruit and vegetable market held daily here. In the city, there are many interesting museums and art galleries. One of my favourites is the Museum of Broken Relationships which is dedicated to romantic liaisons that have failed – exhibited through letters, memorabilia, and photographs – all submitted from jilted lovers around the world. Another favourite place of mine is Strossmayer’s Walkway in Upper Town, where you have great views of the city below and it is where, in the summer, you will find painters, musicians, and other artists offering performances and concerts.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, probably the best-known tourist centre in Croatia, is a stunningly intact walled city on the Adriatic Sea coast in the extreme south of the country and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a seaport and is nicknamed "Pearl of the Adriatic". Dubrovnik was one of the centres of the development of the Croatian language and literature, home to many notable poets, playwrights, painters, mathematicians, physicists and other scholars. Today, on a Croatia vacation package, it is one of the most beautiful towns in the Mediterranean. George Bernard Shaw once said that "those who seek paradise on Earth should come to Dubrovnik and find it.'' Royalty, presidents and diplomats have all favoured the city. Dubrovnik is steeped in stunning architecture and sculptural detail and boasts spectacular churches, monasteries and museums.
Split
Split is the second largest city in Croatia and the largest city on the Adriatic coast. It is dominated by the enormous Diocletian’s Palace complex, the most important sight in Split. In 295 AD, Roman Emperor Diocletian ordered this to be built as a residence for his retirement. Today, these ruins are some of the most valuable surviving buildings of the Roman era on the Adriatic coast, and the largest Roman palace ever built. The ancient palace/fortress is now what I would describe as a city within a city – with numerous shops, cafes, restaurants, and also apartments located in the old buildings on the narrow streets. The centre of activity is the main square called the Peristyle. In the palace are antiques which include three 3500-year old sphinxes brought to Split from Egypt for the Emperor. Although primarily not a beach resort, there are beaches in Split. Most of them are south-east of Split’s harbour. Bacvice Beach is at the beginning of a 10 kilometre/6 mile stretch of coastline, offering a large selection of beach resorts.
Zadar
Zadar is the perfect alternative to Dubrovnik, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia. Although smaller in size and situated on a peninsula, it has many attractions which include a historic old town with Roman ruins, medieval churches, cosmopolitan cafes, and quality museums and art galleries. While on your Croatia vacation, you will find that it is not overrun with tourists. The numerous Roman sites include the forum, built in the 3rd century AD, a temple, and an amphitheatre. Zadar boasts two unique attractions. One is the Sea Organ, a series of stairs below which are a set of organ pipes which play music. The sound is created by the air pushed up by the sea, described by someone as “an endless concert of mystic harmonies by the ‘Orchestra of Nature’.” The other is the Greeting to the Sun, which consists of 300 multi-layered glass plates on the waterfront in the shape of a 22-metre-in-diameter circle. They produce an amazing and impressive show of light.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Although not on the coast, a deviation to this natural inland wonderland would be rewarding. It is a 2-hour bus ride from Zagreb or Zadar. Within the boundaries of this heavily-forested national park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are 16 terraced lakes which literally tumble into one another via a series of waterfalls and cascades. The lakes are renowned for their distinctive colours, ranging from azure to green, grey, and blue. There are boardwalk trails, caves, boats for hire, and wildlife which includes deer, wolves, brown bears, wildcats, lynx, wild boar, voles, otters, and more than 160 different species of birds.
Resorts in Croatia
Istria is the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea located at the head of the Adriatic between the Gulf of Trieste and the Bay of Kvarner. It is shared by three countries: Croatia, Slovenia, and Italy. The Italian influence is fairly dominant. On a Croatia vacation package, the major resort is Porec with good beaches. Inland is Pula with its interesting Roman amphitheatre.
The Kvarner Gulf is a bay in the northern Adriatic Sea located between the Istrian Peninsula and the northern mainland. It includes the seaport city of Rijeka and the resort of Opatija, a popular summer and winter resort surrounded by beautiful woods of bay laurel. The whole coast to the north and south of Opatija is rocky and picturesque and contains several smaller winter resorts.
Croatia’s Islands
Hvar has earned the reputation as the country’s premier party town if considering a Croatia vacation. During the tourist season, the port is filled with large yachts, while the all-night discotheques attract young visitors. But that’s not all that is attractive about Hvar. It is often called “The Island of Lavender.” Hvar Town is surrounded by 13th Century walls inside of which are several beautiful Gothic palaces and pedestrian streets. You can enjoy the livelier aspects of Hvar certainly but you can also explore the sights as well as swim at one of the numerous beaches. Hvar is also one of the two most famous wine-making regions in Croatia, famous for both red and white wines.
Mljet is 37 kilometres/23 miles from Dubrovnik and is reached by ferry from there. Over 2/3 of the island is covered in forest and half of it is a national park. The rest is dotted with fields, vineyards, and small villages. Mljet has been described as an unspoilt oasis of tranquility, with its lush landscapes and pine forests. The island is considered to be one of the most beautiful of all Croatian islands. It is Croatia’s greenest island with a clear and clean blue sea and sandy shoreline. IOne major attraction on the island is Mljet National Park, which covers the western half and is very scenic with its two attractive saltwater lakes.
Korcula is an island which is generally reached by ferry from Split. Its beaches are some of the best you’ll find on your Croatia vacation. With a very long and varied coastline, Korcula offers a wide range of beaches, some rocky, some sandy and some just pebble.Historical, fortified Korcula Town is known as “Little Dubrovnik,” given its medieval squares, churches, and palaces. Many traditional activities take place on Korcula including traditional folk music and dancing.
So, on a Croatia vacation, the choice is yours.
"Globetrotting with Goway" blog articles
For some additional reading, the following articles are from our blog “Globetrotting with Goway”….. a great source of information for those people who are, or who want to be, world travellers!
The Perfect 2 Week Slovenia and Croatia Itinerary
The World of Ice and Fire: 10 Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Europe
Discover a New and Exciting European Destination With a Croatia Vacation
Some of the Most Amazing Waterfalls to be Found on a Goway Vacation
Make the Most of Your Adriatic Adventure in Sensational Croatia
See More on Your Europe Vacation with Our Back-Roads Experiences
Unusual Museums of the World (Part 1)
Croatia Tour Information
At Goway we believe that a well-informed traveller is a safer traveller. With this in mind, we have compiled an easy to navigate travel information section dedicated to a Croatia. vacation.
Learn about the history and culture of Croatia, the must-try food and drink, and what to pack in your suitcase. Read about Croatia's nature and wildlife, weather and geography, along with 'Country Quickfacts' compiled by our travel experts. Our globetrotting tips, as well as our visa and health information, will help ensure you're properly prepared for a safe and enjoyable trip. The only way you could possibly learn more is by embarking on your journey and discovering Croatia for yourself. Start exploring… book one of our Croatia tours today!
Extend your Stay in Europe
Consider an additional stopover to your Croatia vacation at one of Goway's other European destinations. You can choose from a Paris vacation, a London vacation or an Amsterdam vacation. This can be done stopping over en route to or from Croatia.
Croatia Highlights: Zagreb, Split & Dubrovnik
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Start in the capital, Zagreb, Croatia’s centre of culture, innovation, and opportunity. Next is Split which dates back to the Roman era, where you'll enjoy a visit to River Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik. Finally, visit Dubrovnik, taking your time exploring this renowned walled city, known for its old town, bars and restaurants.
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Dubrovnik and the Deluxe Dalmatian Mini Cruise
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Explore the old town of Dubrovnik then set sail on a 5-day Adriatic cruise along the Dalmatian Coast. Each day, visit historic landmarks and swim off sunny beaches. Then connect to Split and head on a day trip to the remarkable Plitvice Lakes, the most beautiful natural landmarks in the country.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,078
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Croatia Adventure Self-Drive: Zagreb to Dubrovnik
MODERATE | SELF-DRIVE: This program offers an easy way to enjoy Croatia’s best sights at your own pace. Spend some time in Zagreb before making your way to Plitvice Lakes and Split. Your journey ends in historic Dubrovnik, where you'll enjoy two full days to explore on your own, or take one of the region's many day trips.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,325
- Trip Type:
- Self-Drives
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Croatia Highlights: Zagreb, Split & Dubrovnik
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Start in the capital, Zagreb, Croatia’s centre of culture, innovation, and opportunity. Next is Split which dates back to the Roman era, where you'll enjoy a visit to River Krka Waterfalls and Sibenik. Finally, visit Dubrovnik, taking your time exploring this renowned walled city, known for its old town, bars and restaurants.- Duration:
- 10 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,255
- Trip Type:
- Bucket List Travel Ideas, Classics (Bestsellers)
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Highlights of Dubrovnik
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Staying in the fabled walled city, explore the highlights of the Dubrovnik including neighbouring countries of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Korcula island and the beautiful Peljesac Peninsula. Stroll through charming towns filled with winding and narrow streets, discover the impressive Kravica waterfalls and take in the beautiful, unspoilt natural landscapes of the Adriatic coastlines.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 689
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Discover Slovenia, Croatia and the Balkans
MODERATE | PRIVATE-GUIDED: Embark on an affordable, private-guided journey visiting historical landmarks such as Dubrovnik and Split as well as the modern-day capitals of Ljubljana, Belgrade, Skopje, and Tirana. See the natural wonders of Postojna Caves and Plitvice Lakes National Park and enjoy colourful flourishes in Lake Bled, Piran, and Kotor.- Duration:
- 15 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 6,997
- Trip Type:
- Multi Country Vacation Ideas, Private Experiences, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Active Croatia
MODERATE | SMALL GROUP: Hike, raft, kayak, and bike your way through one of Europe’s emerging stars on this Croatia tour that showcases this Balkan gem’s natural beauty, starting in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Split.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,650
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Small Group Touring
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Croatia & the Dalmatian Coast
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Discover Croatia’s surprising spectacular beautiful coastline where dramatic cliffs rise out of the sea and picturesque islands are scattered everywhere. Visit the interesting and charming resorts of Trogir, Korcula, Split, and the “jewel in the crown”, Dubrovnik each with their own individual attractions.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,848
- Trip Type:
- Small Group Touring
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Highlights of Split
FIRST-CLASS | TAILOR-MADE: Discover the city of Split as well as some of Croatia’s most beloved natural landmarks on this Adriatic vacation. Based in Split, you’ll head on day trips to the Plitvice Lakes and the River Krka Waterfalls, as well as have time to explore the city at leisure.- Duration:
- 5 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 864
- Trip Type:
- Stopovers/City Breaks, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Highlights of the Western Balkans: Dubrovnik, Sarajevo & Belgrade
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: Explore the rich history of the ascendant Balkan nations on the Adriatic. Walk the ramparts of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, haggle for fine antiques in the Ottoman bazaar of Bascarsija in Sarajevo and stand atop the Kalemegdan Fortress in the “White City” of Belgrade.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,570
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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Adriatic Explorer Cruise: Dubrovnik to Opatija
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: The perfect way to experience the Croatian coastline is on a cruise. Set sail aboard a Deluxe cruise vessel, including hot tubs, beautiful sun decks and spacious cabins. Discover small waterfront towns and wander memorable Croatian islands, in between exploring the most stunning cities and natural sights of the Dalmatian coast.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,810
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Croatia Captured Cruise: Split, Hvar, Dubrovnik, Korčula & more
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Explore the extraordinarily beautiful and scenic rugged coastline of Dalmatia on the Adriatic Sea aboard a Deluxe cruise vessel. Discover secluded beaches, wooded green islands and stunning timeless medieval towns. Visit impressive destinations including Split, Korcula, Hvar and spectacular Dubrovnik.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,035
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Croatian Rhapsody: Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik & more
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL-GROUP: Commencing from Croatia’s fascinating capital, Zagreb, visit the wonders of Croatia including the Roman sites in Opatija, Plitvice Lakes with their magnificent waterfalls, Split with its Roman walls, historical Trogir and Dubrovnik with its excellent beaches and medieval old town.- Duration:
- 9 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,724
- Trip Type:
- Single Friendly, Small Group Touring
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Croatian Wilderness Cruise: Split, Brač, Korčula, Vis & more
MODERATE | CRUISE: Set out in search of Croatia's lesser known ports on a Premium or Traditional cruise vessel from Split. Some highlights of this itinerary include swimming at secluded beaches, the Blue & Green Cave, Korčula and the Lastovo chimneys. Swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the underworld of the Adriatic Sea.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,052
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Divine Dalmatia Cruise: Dubrovnik, Korcula, Makarska, Split & more
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Cruise on the southern Adriatic Sea in a Deluxe vessel in 8 days! Some highlights of this itinerary include Dubrovnik's town walls, swimming at secluded beaches, the jet-set island of Hvar and the national park Mljet. During the day you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the treasures of the Adriatic Sea.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,824
- Trip Type:
- Beach & Island Escapes, Cruises & Sailing
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Kvarner Bay Islands Cruise: Opatija, Rab, Zadar, Lošinj & more
MODERATE | CRUISE: Cruise the Dalmatian coast to discover one of Europe’s most timeless and beautiful ‘it’ destinations. Set sail on a Premium or Traditional cruise vessel, delight in charming villages, old and new, swim at secluded beaches, visit Rab, 'the island of love' and enjoy naturally beautiful spots as you sail along the north Adriatic Sea.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 966
- Trip Type:
- Active & Adventurous, Cruises & Sailing, Escorted Coach Touring
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Northern Gems Cruise: Split, Sibenik, Zadar, Trogir
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: This cruise combines the best of Croatia's nature and culture aboard a Deluxe vessel. Discover national parks, stunning waterfalls, ancient Roman architecture and museums. During the day you can swim, snorkel, sunbathe, and explore the Adriatic coast. The evenings are at leisure to find a good restaurant, historical sights, and monuments on land.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,702
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Ship to Shore Cruise: Dubrovnik, Mljet, Korčula, Split & more
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Cruise from Dubrovnik to Split along the picturesque Dalmatian Coast on a Deluxe cruise vessel. Enjoy tours of both these charming cities and explore equally interesting ports of call which offer medieval towns, ancient Roman sites, old walled cities, interesting museums and an opportunity to swim and rent a bike.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 1,568
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing, Tailor-made Travel Ideas
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Sights of Montenegro Cruise: Dubrovnik, Kotor, Korcula, Mljet & more
FIRST-CLASS | CRUISE: Cruise the southern Adriatic Sea on this journey through Croatia and Montenegro. Staying aboard a Deluxe cruise vessel, you’ll explore the historical landmarks of Montenegro, included the UNESCO-listed city of Kotor, before cruising the Dalmatian Coast around Dubrovnik.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,432
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Wonderful Adriatic Cruise: Dubrovnik to Zadar
DELUXE | CRUISE: Explore the delights of the Adriatic on this memorable Croatia cruise aboard a Deluxe cruise vessel. Set out from the famous walls of Dubrovnik, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some of Europe’s most beautiful islands.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,270
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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Wonderful Adriatic Cruise: Zadar to Dubrovnik
DELUXE | CRUISE: Enjoy a leisurely cruise through an archipelago of idyllic islands off the coast of Croatia on a Deluxe cruise vessel. The cruise is sandwiched between two lovely charming historic cities, Zadar and Dubrovnik. There is also time to explore the old city and port of Split.- Duration:
- 8 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 2,270
- Trip Type:
- Cruises & Sailing
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