Over recent years, Croatia has become one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, with a study by Seenews finding that there’s an approximate 16 per cent increase in visitors to this diverse and beautiful nation each year. Despite its chequered history, Croatia’s pretty pebbled beaches, azure waters and rich history attract tourists from across the globe in their droves, and its appearance in hit HBO series Game of Thrones – couples with a growing number of high-end hotel openings in major holiday hotspots – have propelled it firmly to the top of many luxury travellers’ bucket lists.
With around 1,000 islands, a host of historic cities and sandy coves, Croatia is particularly a favoured land and cruise destination for families. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or an active adventure in national parks, there’s something for everyone here, with activities to enjoy including hiking, biking, snorkelling, island hopping, or simply enjoying the beach.
Cruising the islands and pausing to take in mainland highlights along the way is a great way to make the most of this unique destination. Here, we take a look at the places you won’t want to miss off your itinerary.
Exploring Zadar
Zadar offers a blend of family-friendly attractions and historical charm. Its unique interactive experiences will particularly delight children, particularly architectural sound art object the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation – a monument dedicated to the sun that consists of three hundred multi-layered glass plates placed on the same level as the stone-paved waterfront and a 22-meter diameter circle, with photovoltaic solar modules underneath.
The historic Old Town of Zadar adds another layer to the family experience, featuring ancient Roman ruins and charming streets that promise to captivate both parents and children.
For families seeking additional activities, a visit to the Museum of Illusions, where optical tricks and mind-bending exhibits provide a fun and educational experience, is a must. Or, you can embark on a boat ride to nearby islands for a scenic adventure that everyone will enjoy..
Island hopping adventures
Exploring the enchanting islands along the stunning Dalmatian Coast has to be at the top of any Croatia cruise itinerary.
Southbound tours introduce you to gems like Hvar, Brac, and Vis, renowned for their picturesque beaches and crystal-clear waters. Bol, on the island of Brac, is particularly interesting for your family trip, with Zlatni Rat Beach offering an ideal setting for relaxation and water activities like swimming and snorkelling. Vidova Gora mountain provides stunning views and family-friendly hiking options, and with cultural sites like the Dominican Monastery, the Aquarium, and opportunities for sports enthusiasts, including the renowned Bol Tennis Center and various other sports like soccer and basketball, Bol has got it all.
Whether you’ll be opting for guided historical tours or private boat rentals, you can enjoy flexibility and convenience, ensuring a joyous and memorable experience exploring these captivating Adriatic islands.
Discover Dubrovnik
If you and your family were fans of Game of Thrones, then discovering the impressive city of Dubrovnik is a must. With its captivating Walls and Old Town, it’s an ideal family-friendly destination offering a blend of history and adventure, with its ancient walls provide an intriguing backdrop and allowing the kids to learn about Dubrovnik’s medieval origins and resilient spirit as they explore.
The well-preserved walkway offers breathtaking views, and families can spot landmarks like Fort Lovrijenac, known as the “Red Keep” from Game of Thrones. In Dubrovnik’s Old Town, a medieval marvel, you can stroll through picturesque streets and alleys and visit the Stradun, with opportunities for street performers and making wishes at Orlando’s Column.
The Dubrovnik Aquarium and Maritime Museum add an educational touch, allowing children to discover marine wonders if you’re looking for a little something extra to fill their time.
Take a break from the sea with activities on dry land
Combining land and cruise exploration is the perfect way to go about your family tour of Croatia. Feeling like taking a refreshing nature bathing experience? Krka National Park and the Plitvice Lakes National Park both offer breathtaking landscapes, spectacular waterfalls, and mesmerising walks where you could easily spend a whole day.
Off the beaten track
Taking a private and tour
Booking a guided private land tour promises to be the icing on the cake of any travel experience in Croatia – and picking the right service is paramount to ensure you get maximum enjoyment out of the experience. A good operator will allow you to really immerse yourselves in the culture, the flavours and history of this amazing place.
Smaller places in Croatia often offer things to do like visiting local markets or family-operated homesteads as part of a full day of storytelling and the most delicious homemade food, combined with lots of fun! You can hear about the family stories from a different perspective and take a piece of them back home with you, so if you’re seeking an authentic experience of Croatia, then look no further.
Charter a small ship
The beauty of small ships is where it’s at when it comes to your family cruise in Croatia. No large luxury cruise ship can reach the secluded areas that small ships can, so if you’re keen to access hidden coves and unique locations then it’s a great option.
Not only do you get to enjoy the added privacy and better service on small ship cruises, but you can also really uncover the magic of lesser-visited places like Korčula island, or try oyster farm experience in the small town of Ston!
The bottom line
Croatia offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for families, and from the unique experiences on offer in Zadar to island-hopping adventures along the Dalmatian Coast, exploring Dubrovnik’s historical marvels and the refreshing land activities in national parks, this well-rounded family cruise destination promises a memorable cruising holiday.
Going off the beaten track, embarking upon private land tours and chartering smaller ships to get you to the places you really want to go are your tickets to immersive cultural experiences and access to hidden gems, ensuring that families can create lasting memories in the enchanting destination that is Croatia.
