Top Cities in Croatia That You Cannot Miss

10/3/2025

Top Cities in Croatia That You Cannot Miss

Croatia’s is a dream destination for many people, and you can see why. The beaches are long and sandy, the food is delicious and fresh, the culture is rich and vibrant - and top spots like Hvar Away Villas offer incredible stays.
Croatia has everything from bustling cities to remote islands that can be explored by boat or kayak. You can find city life in Zagreb or Dubrovnik, or enjoy the quiet seclusion of Rovinj.
We’ve put together this guide to the most popular cities in Croatia, so all you need to do is grab your ETIAS Croatia and pack your bags.

Top Cities in Croatia That You Cannot Miss. Image Credits - Unsplash

1. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the perfect place for a vacation. It’s a city that has it all: a beautiful and historic old town, a thriving beach scene (also old and historic), great food and drink, incredible hiking, and an active nightlife scene.
The city itself is rich in history and culture, and has many museums, galleries and other attractions. There are also plenty of activities for those who just want to relax and enjoy the scenery.

2. Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia. The city lies at the intersection of the Sava and Kupa rivers, which meet at the city's central square. It's one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country for good reason: it's beautiful and charming, but also affordable and easy to get around.
Zagreb is also a great place to visit if you're interested in art and culture. There's art throughout the city, including the Art Park Zagreb that features works by artists from around the world.

Zagreb city center by night. Image Credits - Unsplash

3. Zadar

Zadar is an amazing city for a lot of reasons. It has a rich history, beautiful architecture, and its own unique culture. But what makes it truly special is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds it.
Zadar is surrounded by pristine beaches and beautiful islands. It also boasts incredible hiking trails and waterfalls that will leave you breathless.

4. Split

If you're interested in learning about the Roman Empire or just want to spend some time on an island beach, then Split will be a great choice.
This Croatian city is located along the Adriatic Sea and has been inhabited since prehistoric times. It's home to a remarkable number of architectural styles, including Roman ruins and Gothic churches.

Split, Croatia. Image Credits - Unsplash

5. Pula

Pula is a beautiful port city on the Adriatic Sea with a history that goes back over 2,000 years. It's known for its Roman amphitheater, which is still in use today and one of the largest of its kind in the world.
The city is also home to a variety of museums, including the Museum of Modern Art and Pula Film Festival, as well as scenic beaches and parks.

6. Šibenik

Šibenik is an enchanting place that will transport you to a different world. The city's history dates back to the 16th century, and it has experienced a lot of changes since then.
It was once an important port for the Venetian Republic, and today it's a beautiful city filled with medieval architecture and stunning views of the sea and islands.

7. Rovinj

Rovinj is a lovely seaside town in Croatia, and a great place to visit if you're looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, and it's surrounded by lush forests.
The island has a rich history—it was once the seat of the Republic of Venice, and you can still see evidence of that time in the city's architecture.

8. Korcula

Korcula is a small island in Croatia that's situated between the islands of Korcula and Mljet. It's known for its beautiful old town, which has been preserved in the same way it was hundreds of years ago.
This small island boasts a unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance that makes it one of the most beautiful places in the world.

9. Sisak

Sisak is an incredible city near Zagreb. It is known for its thermal springs and spa, which are the largest in Europe.
There are plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking, as well as a lake that's great for water sports.