Croatia is the land of islands. With hundreds of them to choose from, plus dynamic cities and many areas of natural beauty, trust us when we say that you’ll need Plum Guide's expert advice when you’re deciding on the best places to visit in Croatia. With a glorious coastline, clear blue waters and a fascinating culture and history, you’re spoilt for choice. Use our guide to the best places to visit in Croatia to work out your itinerary for this country on the Adriatic coast (and don't forget to book your accommodation in one of our expertly vetted rental homes).

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Zagreb is the capital of Croatia, as well as being the largest city in the country, so paying a visit is always one of the most popular things to do in Croatia. It’s a vibrant, buzzing metropolis, with history dating back to the second century AD when King Ladislaus of Hungary established a diocese here. Divided into an Upper Town and Lower Town, it’s the Upper Town where visitors will spend most of their time as it’s the historical core of the city (plus, we know you’re the kind of person who definitely wants to have the upper hand). Filled with cobblestoned streets, medieval churches and impressive palaces, you’ll want to stay longer as soon as you step off the plane.

One spot not to miss in Zagreb is Ban Jelacic Square, the city’s main hub surrounded by historical architecture, restaurants and bars. You should also make sure to see Dolac Market, which has stalls aplenty selling local handicrafts, produce and prepared food and clothes and accessories. It’s just the spot to pick up a thoughtful present for your boss, fussy grandmother or difficult-to-please teen. Or just something for yourself, of course. Either way, bring your best haggling skills.

For an adorable yet luxurious country bolthole not far from Zagreb, this barn conversion with a huge outdoor pool is an ideal place to retire to after a long day of sightseeing.

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If you’re a Game of Thrones fan (or even if you never quite got into it but your kids love it so much that you could hum the theme tune at the drop of a hat), you’ll recognise Dubrovnik. It was a major filming location for the portions of the show set in King’s Landing – and it’s so beautiful here that you too will feel like a king (or queen) as soon as you set foot here.

The city is nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ and it can be found at the southern tip of the country, looking out over the blue Adriatic sea. It was a hub of art, literature and science in the Middle Ages, and that pervasive atmosphere of discovery and positivity still drifts throughout the city today.

Among the best things to do in Dubrovnik are walking the cobbled streets, climbing the old defensive city walls and marvelling at the many churches and all of the intricate architecture. Don’t miss Onofrio’s fountain, a marvel of 15th century engineering. And make sure that you take a stroll through the Old Town at night – it’s illuminated and romantic, and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re more of a sea-and-sun type person, grab your sunscreen because do we have some beaches for you! The nearby Banje and Lapad offer the white sand and blue sea that you spend your days dreaming about when you’re chained to your desk and in all those endless rounds of meetings your company loves so much.

If you really want to feel like royalty, you should stay in this flawless Plum Guide property where you too can stand leaning on a wall holding a glass of wine, planning world domination. A private pool and jacuzzi and a huge terrace overlooking the city means it’s the perfect place to take a break from your everyday life.

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If you’re the kind of traveller who prefers being immersed in nature rather than queueing for entry tickets, ice cream and just about anything else you could think of, Krka National Park should be at the top of your list of the best places to visit in Croatia. Located along the Krka River in Sibinik-Knin County, it’s a protected natural area of wildlife, historical sites and of course, stunning wild scenery.

The park is most famous for its many waterfalls and naturally formed pool of green-blue water perfect for swimming, so make sure not to forget your bikini and a towel (the incentive of wild swimming might even be enough for your kids to stop learning TikTok dances by the impressively blue pool of this villa and join you for a hike). The walking trails are so close to the falls that you’ll get sprayed with water.

If you don’t love the water, never fear – there’s plenty else to enjoy here. From lush green vegetation to birds and dragonflies, and even historic archaeological sites of Roman settlements and monasteries, the park’s 27,000 acres are sure to keep you entertained. And later that evening, you can enjoy a relaxed dinner in this glass-walled dining room to talk about your favourite parts of the day.

Explore our homes in Croatia.

• Things to do in Croatia

• Where to stay in Croatia

• What to do in Dubrovnik

• Things to do in Split, Croatia