8 best things to do in Croatia
Ranked by how often travelers include them in real TravBuddy trips — with costs, timings and tips.
The top things to do in Croatia include Plitvice Lakes National Park, Diocletian's Palace, Sea Organ, plus 5 more. Each stop below is rated by real travelers and drawn from actual TravBuddy itineraries, so you see what people genuinely spend time on — not a generic list.
1.Plitvice Lakes National Park
4.8Park1,25,258 reviews~3,00009:00 AMSpend the full day exploring the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its cascading lakes and waterfalls. Follow the well-marked trails and enjoy the stunning natural beauty.
Tip: Wear sturdy, waterproof walking shoes and bring snacks and water. Arrive early to avoid crowds, even in May.
2.Diocletian's Palace
4.7Landmark89,839 reviews~20009:30 AMImmerse yourself in history by exploring Diocletian's Palace, an ancient palace built for the Roman emperor Diocletian that forms about half of the old town of Split. Wander through its narrow streets and discover hidden courtyards.
Tip: Hire a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the palace's history, or grab a detailed map.
3.Sea Organ
4.7Landmark70,766 reviews~20006:00 PMExperience the unique architectural sound art installation that plays music by means of sea waves and tubes located underneath a set of large marble steps. It's especially magical around sunset.
Tip: Arrive before sunset to witness the captivating light and sound show at its best.
4.Krka National Park
4.5Park67,142 reviews~2,00009:00 AMDiscover the stunning waterfalls and cascades of Krka National Park. Walk the wooden boardwalks, enjoy the lush greenery, and admire the beautiful Skradinski Buk waterfall.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking. While swimming is generally not allowed directly under the main waterfalls, designated swimming areas are available in parts of the park.
5.Golden Horn Beach (Zlatni Rat)
4.4Beach28,417 reviews~20011:00 AMRelax and swim at the iconic Golden Horn Beach, known for its unique shape that changes with the tides and currents. It's a perfect spot for sunbathing and enjoying the clear waters.
Tip: The beach is pebbly, so consider bringing water shoes for comfort. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available for rent.
6.Klis Fortress
4.5Landmark11,544 reviews~70004:00 PMVisit Klis Fortress, a medieval fortress situated on a rocky outcrop above the village of Klis. It offers incredible panoramic views of Split and the surrounding islands, and is famous for its role in 'Game of Thrones'.
Tip: The climb to the fortress can be steep, so wear appropriate footwear. The views are well worth the effort!
7.Ferry to Hvar
4.6Travel2,854 reviews~1,50008:00 AMTake a scenic ferry ride from Split to Hvar Island. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea during the journey.
Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during the shoulder season, to secure your spot.
8.Souvenir Shopping
4.9Shopping351 reviews~1,50010:30 AMDo some last-minute souvenir shopping to bring a piece of Croatia back home with you. Look for local olive oil, lavender products, or traditional handicrafts.
Tip: Bargaining is not common, but always check for quality and authenticity, especially for local products.
Things to do in Croatia: quick questions
How many days do you need in Croatia?+
Most travellers spend about 7 days in Croatia, based on real trips planned on TravBuddy.
What are the top things to do in Croatia?+
Top experiences in Croatia include Plitvice Lakes National Park, Diocletian's Palace, Sea Organ, Krka National Park.
What are some offbeat places to visit in Croatia?+
Beyond the usual spots, travellers in Croatia also visit Klis Fortress.
Where should you eat in Croatia?+
Popular places to eat in Croatia include Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Cafe, HERITAGE - Croatian Street Food & Shop.
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Plan my Croatia tripRanked from 8 places that appear across real TravBuddy trips to Croatia and traveler ratings. Entry fees and timings change — confirm ahead for closures.