Island-hopping in Croatia: a practical guide

The first time I went to Croatia was in 2017. I was on a week-long winter break trip before I would return to London to start my final semester of university. My friend and I stayed in the capital, Zagreb. We hiked through snow-capped trees, went to markets in the city center, and even took a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s largest national park and a UNESCO site. After that trip, I knew I had to visit the country again.

Croatia is an endlessly appealing destination with sun-drenched beaches, picturesque hilltop towns and atmospheric streets.

With Mediterranean beaches galore, a delightful mix of cultural sights, family-friendly adventure parks and playgrounds aplenty, Croatia is a have-it-all destination for those traveling with babies, children and teens.

There’s much more to Croatia than its glittering Adriatic coast.

You don’t need to jet off to Croatian islands like Hvar and Brač to see the country’s best beaches. Coastal towns run the length of Croatia, and while they may not look like the coastal destinations in Mexico or surf havens in California that you typically equate with a beach town, they bring European charm and elegance to the concept of a town that’s centered on a stretch of coast, and whose identity is in some ways shaped by that fact. For scenic beaches accompanied by stunning architecture and non-sunbathing activities ranging from hiking to bar-hopping, these are the Croatia beaches and beach towns to visit on your next trip to Croatia.

Croatia has vibrant cities, tumbling waterfalls and rolling vineyards.

With its glittering Adriatic coastline, 1244 islands, endlessly fascinating cities and extraordinarily dramatic landscapes, Croatia has been steadily making its way up people’s must-go list. 

With 2500 miles of coastline and close to 1200 islands, Croatia's sun-drenched credentials are impressive – and that's before you add its troves of Roman and Venetian-era architecture, Unesco sites of cultural and natural heritage, and gorgeous nature parks, mountain ranges, lakes and rivers.

Central and Eastern Europe are among the culturally diverse parts of the world, preserving a plethora of deep-rooted traditions. What’s more, large tracts of the area remain off the mass-tourism radar, ensuring that there is still a great deal to explore. The following ten suggestions will ensure you get the best out of this huge, compelling and endlessly surprising region.

Croatia is one of Europe's most popular summer destinations, thanks to its superb food, fun festivals and string of beautiful islands. Whether it's beaches, natural beauty or a laid-back old town you're after, you'll find it here.

WIth 1244 islands, a wealth of unspoiled National Parks, and world-class wine and food, Croatia is one of Europe’s rising stars. In fact, you voted it one of the most beautiful countries in the world. To make sure you hit the ground running when visiting this diverse nation, wise up with our top ten tips for first-time travellers to Croatia. The Rough Guide to Croatia is also packed with plenty of expert information.

We’ve all heard of the big hitters, such as Ibiza, Corsica and Sicily, but what about Europe’s lesser known islands? Have you ever dreamt of mixing it up with a windswept, heart-pumping hike on the remote hills of Foula? Or kicking through the sweeps of sand that pass for roads on La Graciosa?