Croatia family holidays: discover our favourite destinations

If you are looking for an idea for next summer, you can consider a family holiday in Croatia as an option. With its gorgeous beaches, captivating ruins and breathtaking natural beauty, Croatia is a country that little ones can enjoy as much as the grown-ups in your group. But where is the best place in Croatia for families? Here are some of our favourites.

1. The Istrian coast

Children love to be beside the sea, and Istria has some of the best beaches in Croatia. For a perfect summer holiday, spent paddling in the sea and building sandcastles, many consider Istria one of the best places to visit in Croatia for families. 

Try the coastal resorts of Poreč or Rovinj and you’ll have loads to keep them occupied without having to venture too far. They’ll love taking the tourist train down to Pical Beach in Poreč, and you can spend your days exploring caves, hunting for dinosaur footprints and sampling local dishes in child-friendly restaurants. Istria is also home to two waterparks (Aquapark Aquacolors and Aquapark Istralandia) – the perfect way for them to cool off in the summer sun.

2. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is the best place in Croatia for families. The city’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town is a car-free zone, making it perfect for little ones. Families will love admiring the views as they walk the enormous city walls or take a cable car 700m up the hill. 

The town is located on the coast of Croatia and it can be a great destination for families who want to explore the country’s rich culture and history while enjoying the sunshine and sea. 

For a swim, head to Banje, the town’s beach, or take the 10-minute bus ride to the shallow waters of Lapad Beach. For a bigger adventure, take a boat over to the car-free island of Kolocep.

Another popular attraction for families in Dubrovnik is the cable car ride to the top of Mount Srd, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas. Families can enjoy a meal or drink at the mountaintop restaurant while taking in the views, or exploring the fortifications and museums located at the top.

3. Makarska Riviera

Close to Dubrovnik and Split, the Makarska Riviera is a glorious place for young and old alike, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia for families. You’ll find 16th-century architecture sitting alongside picturesque white sandy beaches, and when they’re not busy on the beach, young ones will love taking a boat trip off the shore. 

This area is also a great base for getting out into the great outdoors and exploring Croatia’s natural beauty. Take the kids to Brela’s Natural Park Presentation Centre so that they can learn about the geology and wildlife of the region, and have fun investigating some of the area’s renowned caves. Look out for the rare Mediterranean monk seal! 

4. Pula

Once the setting for bloodthirsty fights, Pula’s awe-inspiring Roman amphitheatre is sure to capture the kids’ imaginations. It’s one of the largest in the world, and it’s more complete than the Colosseum, making it the perfect place for children to immerse themselves in Croatia’s far-reaching history.

Furthermore, Pula, it’s really easy to reach also from Italy, thanks to our ferry from Venice to Pula. Finally, if you’re in Croatia for a few days you could also take the kids on the ferry to Venice, where there are even more fun things to do as a family. Get some more ideas here and book your Venice day trip.

5. Croatia beach holidays

Croatia is an idyllic destination for a beach holiday, offering crystal clear waters, stunning coastlines and plenty of sunshine. With over 1,100 miles of coastline along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia has a wide variety of beaches to choose from. These include pebble, sandy and rocky beaches.

If you’re looking for a more secluded beach experience, consider visiting the island of Hvar off the Dalmatian coast. Hvar has some of the most picturesque beaches in Croatia, such as the quiet Dubovica Beach, surrounded by stunning cliffs and turquoise waters.

One of the most popular destinations for Croatia beach holidays is Zlatni Rat Beach, located in the charming town of Bol (Makarska Riviera), on the island of Brač.

Zlatni Rat Beach is a long, thin stretch of pebble beach that juts out into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea. 

The place is so unique in its shape, which changes depending on the currents and wind direction. This natural phenomenon makes Zlatni Rat Beach a popular destination for photographers, as well as beachgoers looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.

But Zlatni Rat Beach is a popular destination for families. The beach itself is safe for children and they can swim in the shallow waters. With its beautiful scenery, safe swimming conditions and proximity to other family-friendly attractions, it’s a great place to enjoy the sun, sand and sea with loved ones.

No matter where you choose to go in Croatia for your beach holiday, you’re sure to find plenty of opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports with your family. 

6. Croatia family resorts

Croatia family holidays are perfect for those who are looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure and cultural experiences. The Croatia family resorts offer a wide range of options to suit different budgets, needs and interests.

You can choose a 5-star hotel that offers spacious rooms and suites with sea views, as well as a range of amenities for families, including a children’s pool, a playground, and a kids’ club with daily activities. Some of the all-inclusive resorts provide a range of activities for families. These include a water park, mini golf and a variety of sports facilities.

Overall, Croatia offers a range of family resorts that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious beachfront hotel or a more secluded and natural setting, there’s a family resort in Croatia that can meet your needs and provide an unforgettable holiday experience.

7. Family activity holidays Croatia

Family activity holidays in Croatia offer a perfect blend of adventure, fun and relaxation for the whole family. With its stunning coastline, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking national parks, Croatia is an ideal destination for families looking for an active holiday.

There are plenty of activities to choose from, including kayaking, cycling, hiking, rock climbing, and swimming. The country’s national parks, such as Plitvice Lakes and Krka, offer a chance to explore the natural beauty of Croatia, while the stunning beaches and islands provide opportunities for water-based activities such as snorkelling, diving, and sailing.

In addition to the adventure activities, there are also cultural experiences to be had, including exploring the ancient cities of Split and Dubrovnik, visiting historic sites, and sampling local cuisine. When it comes to accommodation, there are plenty of options, from self-catering apartments and villas to all-inclusive resorts. Many of these properties offer children’s clubs and activities, allowing parents to relax while their kids are entertained.
Overall, family activity holidays in Croatia offer a unique and exciting way for families to spend time together, create lasting memories, and experience the beauty and culture of this stunning country.