The 33 most beautiful towns in Croatia not only for sailors

We've selected the 33 most beautiful Croatian cities worth seeing. Some of them can be found on the mainland, some are located on the islands. Explore them one by one from the deck of a boat - one day you can enjoy the historical sights, the next you can anchor in an empty bay and swim in the turquoise sea. 

Everyone has heard of Croatia and has probably been here at least once in their lifetime. But Croatia offers so much more than the usual holiday. There are few places where you can find such beautiful scenery and at the same time a large number of cultural and historical monuments. When you go to this diverse country, you will find a host of cities that are unique, even breathtaking. Many of Croatia's beacheshave been awarded the Blue Flag, which guarantees their first-class quality. You can visit and explore the local national parks... But the best way to explore Croatia is from the deck of a boat. Thanks to the viewpoint that sailing to the mainland brings, and also thanks to a certain freedom and liberty. One day you can be in a city full of people, exploring its sights, the next you can be anchored in an empty bay, enjoying the peace and the beautiful view of the starry sky. Here aremy tips for cities to visit on your travels and cruises . 

Of course, we can't forget the capital of Croatia, which is known to us as Zagreb. It is the largest city , with a population of just under 800,000, and despite being located inland, it certainly has a lot to offer. We recommend a visit to Zagreb especially if you are coming to Croatia by car and want to relax a bit on the way. As they say, "the journey is the destination", so why not start your holidayhere. It's true that coastal cities have a different feel for us inland, but in Zagreb you can also you can enjoy a pleasant stroll through the historic centre, the many parks and beautiful squares. If you have time, many museums are also worth a visit, such as the natural history and archaeological museums. Zagreb is divided into upper and lower towns. In the upper town, which is locally called Gronji Grad, you can visit St. Mark's Square and the 13th century church of the same name, the Parliament building or take a ride on the cable car.This has been in operation since 1889 and takes you to the top of Lotrščak, wherethe cannons are always firedat noon. The lower town or Donji Grand also has its own important square, namelyJelačić Square. If you would like to buy something here, you will find what you need in the street Ilica .

Originally an islet located near the mainland, Rovinj is interesting for its history. It used to be an important centre of Venetian maritime navigation and also a fishing centre. Today it is also associated with cultural activities and entertainment, from classical concerts to festivals. This small town is simply alive. The houses hereare almost hidden in the beautiful greenery that surrounds the whole town. There are two harbours - the northern one is for large cruise ships and the southern one offers space for yachts, smaller boats and fishermen. Walking through the town, you can find, besides the churches and squares, the three preserved city gates, which were part of the city fortifications. However, they are not so easy to find, especially the gate under the Wall (Portica). The gates are already incorporated into the town itself and the surrounding buildings. If you are an art lover, you definitely need to visit the Grisia alley . This is anopen-airgallery where you can find lots of paintings, ceramics, jewellery and other gems. Every second Sunday in August, there is a big festival where many artists exhibit their paintings. The unique thing is that it doesn't matter the origin or reputation of the artist. Anyone can exhibit here.

We've already talked aboutthe cities in the south and centre of Dalmatia, but Zadar is located completely in the north. During the summer ,Zadar is a very busy city. Its true charm can be experienced ideally at the beginning of the season, when the weather is pleasant during the day and you can wear a sweater at night. When the city is just waking up and you can stroll through the narrow streets, which breathe a wonderful atmosphere at every step. There are many charming restaurants that you will stumble upon even if you simply take a wrong turn. Along the coast it is beautiful to watch, and above all listen to, the special "sea organ". These are stairs that make picturesque sounds thanks to the wind and the sea. It's the waves that make this organ ring out, and you may spend a few dozenminutes looking out into the calming distance and listening to the pleasant music created by the elements. There are many churches and other monuments in the town , including the old 16th century fortifications . The pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus , which is such a symbol ofZadar, is definitely worth a visit .

This picturesque town was founded in the 11th century by King Krešimir IV, which is why you may come across the name Krešimir's Town somewhere . The ancient character of the town can be enjoyed thanks to the four fortressesthat have been preserved, three of which are in the hill above the town. There are also many churches that will delight you. Don't miss the Cathedral of St. James, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. Sibenik is close to the Krka and Kornati National Parks , which, if you have time, are well worth a visit. Kornati NP can only be reached byboat. You will discover amazing islands, which you will especially enjoy when you dock inone of the many bays. While NP Krka is inland and is especially famous for its Skradin waterfalls .

They say what's small is pretty. This is doubly true of the cute little town of Nin. Add to that its rich history and you have another town on your list that you simply must visit. Located 17 km from Zadar, it is an island connected to the mainland by bridges.The great uniqueness of this town is the beautiful sandy beach . It is especially suitable for families with children, but also forkitesurfing lovers . There is a wealth of cultural activities, countless pubs and restaurants and local bars. The smallest cathedral in the world, the Church of the Holy Cross, which probably dates back to the 9th century, is definitely worth a visit.

One of the most famous resorts in Croatia is the Makarska Riviera. It stretches from Brela to Gradac and is said to be the most beautiful 60 kilometers of Dalmatia. We would recommend the town of Makarska itself for a day trip preferably by boat. You'll enjoy the hustle and bustle of the town, the large markets, the many restaurants and bars, as well as the sights, and then head out again the next day. Makarska is also one of the important spa resorts and respiratory treatments. The parish church of St. Mark, built in the Baroque style, is definitely worth a visit. The Makarska Riviera is all about endless promenades, so even in Makarska you can still take a walk and enjoy the pleasant view of the sea and the city.

A town that prides itself on its quality, which attracts with its diversity and beautiful beaches. But also a place that was fortified and provided a refuge from the Turks. Only the three-storey defensive Čarić tower has been preserved from the original fortifications. Not far from Vodice is the small town of Tribunj, which can be reached on foot, and even here you can find charming streets. Above all, however, it is known as a fishing village. Therefore, if you would like to buy fish, we definitely recommend buying it here. Vodice is also unique for one event. You can see hundreds of sailing boats that gather here every autumn, when a race called Jabuka takes place. Here you will see super racing sailboats, ones that can cross the oceans, but also quite classic ones. But they all have the same goal. On the night of the start of the regatta, to be in the best place and then sail out to sea, round a small rock formation in the sea called Jabuka and come back. If you don't dare to race yet, you can just make it a pleasant sail in the summer and maybe one day you'll sign up too.

Croatiais not just picturesque towns, beautiful beaches, beautiful islands and bays. Families with children and adrenaline lovers can visitOmis. You can climb the Cetina River canyon or raft down it. If you climb to the top of the mountain, there is paragliding for the really adventurous, ending on a pleasant sandy beach. For a cultural visit, there are two fortresses and many churches to enchant you. A unique event is the reconstruction of the battle between the Omis pirates and the Venetians who tried to conquer the town. It takes place here every year on August 18.

This is the third largest port city, which is not an obvious destination for the average tourist, but don't be fooled. You will find many opportunities for nightlife - bars, discos and even many festivals. You should not miss the famous Rijeka Carnival . The symbol of Rijeka is the marshmallow in a white turban, which you will come across almost everywhere. You can see it, for example, in the form of jewellery, most often earrings.This symbol protects against evil, brings serenity and is given for good luck. You can visit the 13th century medievalTrsat Castle , the 4th century Roman Arch or the Baroque St. Vitus Cathedral.

Twenty kilometres southeast of Dubrovnik is the small town of Cavtat. It is an interesting alternative for those who do not want to go to the popular and busy Dubrovnik. There is a pleasant promenade lined with palm trees, but it is only lively between June and September. After that, the town goes into hibernation and only locals can be found here. This is a historic town that will demand your attention for a few days. Here you will find the remains of an ancient city or fortifications from the 16th century. The Renaissance princely palace is also worth mentioning. The town belongs to the Konavle region, which is known for the most beautiful folkloric costumes. Check them out if you come across them.

A small town in terms of population, but large in terms of offer. Brela has some of the most charming beaches, for example Punta Rata was awarded one of the ten most beautiful beaches in the world in 2004. The place prides itself on its inaccessibility, with hotel capacities deliberately limited to avoid overcrowding. This, of course, increases the price. Many of the hotels also pride themselves on their nightlife, so, for example, compared to the nightlife of Baška Voda next door, you won't be disturbed here. If you want to have some fun, there are some nightclubs or even fun nights for guests here as well. Brela is a town almost entirely hidden in pine trees. Another interesting fact is that in several places fresh water flows into the sea, making ituniquely coloured and thus even more photogenic. The most famous tourist spot in Brela is the stone, which is located in the sea and is covered with pine trees.

If you go to the island of Krk, you must not miss the town of Baska, which is located at the southernmost tip. Especially for us, this town has its own precious meaning, because the Czech Tourist Club still operates here and has marked many hiking trails . Thus, walks outside the town centre are almost obligatory and you don't have to worry about getting lost without your mobile phone and other navigation. At the end of the walks you can find, for example, the Church of St. George or secluded quiet beaches. Baska is friendly for many sports activities, such as windsurfing, diving, underwater fishing and of course sailing.

Biograd na Moru is another port town, unique especially for yachtsmen. The special lighting makes it look almost magical and makes yachts and sailboats look more magical than in daylight. One could say that this alone is a challenge, because the boats, especially the very expensive ones, are very easy to admire even in the daytime. Biograd was destroyed by the Venetians and then the Turks during its history, so you will find here more ruins, relics of the original walls, but you will also see the preserved 18th century church of St. Anastasia. It is true that Croatia has other cities that are more popular. But Biograd na Moru has been competing with them in recent years and is definitely worth a visit. Especially for families with children , there is plenty to do here thanks to the Mirnovec Fun Park.

A small town in the north of Istria that just gets you. If you are a lover of walking without crowds of tourists with guides, the old part of the town is made for you. Theremains of the city fortifications and the gate dating back to the 10th century, the Renaissance Church of St. Roch or the Parish Church of the Assumption. ..However, you will also find a modern part of the city with sports facilities, especially tennis courts, where you can play or come and watchthe Croatia Open . In case you are a wine lover , it doesn't hurt to visit one of the wine cellars. It isin Umagthat the biggest wine cellars of Istriaare located.

Solin is a suburb of Split, but also one of the most important archaeological sites in Croatia. The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Salona are located here. We recommend using a guide for this fascinating tour, as many of the important sites are hundreds of metres apart. You won't find many information signs here and you would miss out on many interesting things. You can use this town, for example, for an excursion from Split, where you can get a nice mooring. They are only 5 kilometres apart. If you believe in legends and superstitions, there is one associated with Solin. This one says that a sip of water from the well, which is near the Church of Our Lady of the Island, will cure infertility.

The capital city of Hvar on the island of the same name is a place not to be missed. Here you will find an area full of cultural monuments, recreation and sports facilities. The fortress of Španjola, which is located above the town , is definitely worth mentioning. Not only is therea beautiful view of the city and the surrounding area, but walking through the fortress itself is very breathtaking. The journey to the fortress is a bit more challenging as you have to go uphill, but the destination is really worth it. You can then find a nice restaurant in the town for refreshments. You'll probably just be thinking for a long time as you won't be able to choose from the variety. But basically you won't go wrong anywhere. For nightlife, there are also renowned places that will definitely catch your eye. In case you can't manage to dock in the city in high season, you can use one of the many bays in the vicinity and then use aboat taxi to go sightseeing or into the swirl of nightlife.

There are other towns on the aforementioned island that, if you have time, are worth a stop. Apart from Hvar, which is one of the most visited places, Stari Grad, Vrboska and Jelsa are also worth a visit. In case you take a cruise around Hvar and have enough time, you can visit all of the above mentioned.

Jelsa was originally a fishing and farming town, which has become a popular tourist destination thanks to the fast ferry connection to the mainland. It is a pleasant town for a holiday, but also just for a trip. In any case, you won't go wrong if you spend at least one night here and enjoy a romantic stroll around the town, ending in one of the excellent restaurants. And just when you think you've had enough of Croatia's typical pebbly beaches, there are plenty of sandy ones too . For example, we can recommend Mina beach, which is also suitable for children because it has a gradual entrance to the sea.

When sailing towards the islands, you must not miss the island of Vis. There are two towns you should visit, but each has a completely different atmosphere. The first, which bears the same name as the island, is located on the northeastern part of the island. It is a port town that is the link to the coast, as ferries come here from the mainland. The town is beautiful, you will be captivated by the Prirovo Monastery, which is located on a small peninsula. Even just walking around the town through the streets, past the church or along the promenade overlooking the sea is worth it. If you have time, you can stop by theArchaeological Museum to see the most valuable exhibit - Aphrodite. Having been closed to tourism for fifty long years for military reasons, the island has managed to keep its charm unspoiled by the massive pressure of travellers. Even if you have to sail for a few hours on Vis (depending on the wind), it is definitely not an obstacle and now it is one of the most popular places in Croatia. Not far from the town of Vis to the west is the bay of Parja and in it the bunker of Jastog, which is a tip for another interesting trip. And you can look for such gems all over the island. The town itself is full of excellent restaurants, bars and for a nice dinner we can recommend restaurant Pojoda. This restaurant is hidden away and doesn't have a sea view, but its quality will make up for it.

Thesecond town on the island of Vis is a bit smaller, but this does not detract from its beauty. If you're ever there, we recommend anchoring on a buoy. The view of the town is simply the most pleasant from the boat. When the sun rises, the sound of bells starts to pour from the Marian Renaissance church that stands right by the beach and you just look from right to left at the splendor. The church is a bit unusual in name, too, translated as "Our Lady the Pirate" or Pirate. The Croatian name for pirates, Gusari, is an afterthought added to the name because they were the ones who looted the precious painting from the church. However, miraculously, it was returned to its place. In case you like to jog, you should run up the small hill above the town where the monastery of St. Nicholas is located. There is a beautiful view of the town and the route is very pleasant. But don't worry, you can also take a relaxing walk here. You will find plenty of restaurants and bars here, but we can recommend one. And it's not just us, it's also frequented by celebrities when they head to the island. Konoba Jastožera is this magical place where you have a view of the sea and you can come here on a dhingi or paddleboard right in the middle of the restaurant. Taste the lobsters or other delicacies here. You won't be disappointed.

Maslinica is located on the western tip ofthe island of Solta. It is a charming small town that is very popular among yachtsmen. Here you will find a nice place to leave your boat safely anchored, but you won't go wrong if you drop anchor in front of it. In front of Maslenica there are six small islands where you can go by boat orpaddleboard and enjoy a unique sunset .Maslinica is a fishing village, so you won't go wrong with seafood for dinner. You canwash it down withDobričić red wine, which is from the area. Worth mentioning is the 17th century prismatic tower right above the harbour, around which theMarchifamily later built a castle .This place is now used as a luxury hotel after renovation.

If you sail to the island of Brac, your stop must be Bol. It is famous for its unique beach, called Zlatni Rat, which is shaped like a triangle. And its tip is constantly leaning to the right or left. On one side of the beach you can enjoy the calm sea, which is pleasant for swimming or snorkeling, and on the other side you can have some fun in the waves that come in. There are also historical sights to see, such as the Dominican monastery and the churches of St. John the Baptist and St. Theodore. If you'd like to try windsurfing or have some experience, the area around Zlatni Rat beach is definitely the place for you. Bol also offers other sports activities and a pleasant evening is not to be forgotten here. In the high season, there are several places with live music in restaurants and bars, but even just a stroll along the coast and around the harbour is definitely something to enjoy.

The island of Brac offers many towns to visit, but we must not leave out the second most famous resort, Supetar. Before we get to it, it is worth mentioning the island itself. Brac is one of the largest islands in Croatia, but it is mainly known for its white stone. From the local quarry in the town of Pucisca, the stone has been used for many important buildings, such as Diocletian's Palace. Brač stone is limestone that has stopped halfway in its development to become marble. However, it is known for its ease of working and its rich whiteness. The stone has also looked beyond its borders. It has been used for the parliament in Vienna or Budapest , and for the world-famous White House in Washington. On the same northern side as the quarry is the administrative centre of the island, the town of Supetar. It is suitable for a quiet family holiday, but is also one of the biggest summer destinations on the island. You will also find historical monuments here, and you shouldn't miss St. Mary's Church, built during the 18th and 19th centuries. If you want to take a break from the crazy hustle and bustle during your cruises but don't want to go to the bay, Supetar is the obvious choice.

The town of Korcula is located on the island of the same name. The journey to this town is a bit longer, so it's more pleasant to combine it with a stop in Vis or Hvar (depending on where you sail from, of course), but you should definitely visit this stunning town. If there's one Croatian town that should impress you, it's Korcula. Charming by day, even more beautiful at night. It is a port town and in high season we recommend you have reservations to make sure you have a spot. The more demanding preparation will set the town back in no time. You will find many sights here. During your walks you will not miss Strossmayer Square with the Gothic-Renaissance St. Mark's Cathedral. Wandering around Korcula is unforgettable. If you want to get some exercise, you can take a nice bike trip and get to know the city and its surroundings from a different angle. There are many great places to dine, just remember that a restaurant that doesn't offer a sea view but is perhaps hidden away on a raised terrace in an inconspicuous building can provide a dining experience.

What's small is pretty. This is doubly true for the town of Pomena. You can find it on the west side of the island of Mljet. If you want to enjoy a really peaceful holiday and find the natural beauty of the island of Mljet, you definitely need to stop here. In case you don't want to go here on your own by boat, there is a hotel and some apartments. Part of the island is also a national park and just a short distance from the town itself is Malo Jezero - a place that will captivate you. Afterwards, you can visit Veliko Jezero. The lakes are connected to the sea only by narrow straits. If you're wondering what to have at one of the restaurants that line the shore, fish or seafood is the obvious choice. The locals are focused on fishing.

Thetown of Cres is located on the island of the same name in the north of Croatia, next to the island of Krk.Like many places you will find in Croatia, the focus here is on agriculture and fishing. However, there is one extra thing. That is boat building. Cres is divided into an old and a new part, or inside the walls and behind them. The walls were built by the Venetians during the 16th and 17th centuries. You will find more monuments and historical houses built in the style of Venetian Gothic and Renaissance, but there isone monument you should not miss. The Franciscan Monastery, located just outside the walls of the old part of the city. It was built in the 14th century and inside you can see the oldest Croatian book, the Glagolitic Missal, which is printed in Glagolitic script.

Murter is located on the island of the same name in the north of Croatia.The island is very accessible from the mainland, thanks to a bridge connection. Marina Hraminaisvery famous here, as it is also the starting point for cruises to the Kornati archipelago. Just rent a boat and take a day trip and then come back. History lovers will be especially interested in the old part of the town, where you can find many monuments. Of particular note is the Church of St. Michael, which was built in the 17th century. It is significant mainly because of the valuable objects that you can see in the church area. In HraminaBay , you can seethe remains of the Roman settlement of Collentum. In case you are a sports lover, you can enjoy windsurfing, diving, but especially sailing. On the island you will find many beautiful beaches where you can spend your holidays pleasantly.Themost beautiful one is locatedin thebay of Slanica. Itcan be found on the western part of the island.

Sali can be found on the islet of Dugi Otok, which is located in close proximity to Kornati. Here you can anchor your boat almost around the entire circumference of the bay, where it is only a few steps to restaurants or bars. This gives you a beautiful view of the sea and the surrounding boats on it. In case you are a baking lover , you will find a locally renowned restaurant inland. Konoba Kod Sipeis just a few minutes walk from the harbour and well worth your time. Sali invites you to stroll along the coast, but if you want to visit at least one monumentWe recommend that you seek out the Marian Church, where you will find valuable works such as the painting of the Dead Christ.

Theisland of Lopud is located in the southern part of Croatia, a short distance from Dubrovnik. On this small island there is only one town with the unexpected name of Lopud. You can find it on the northwestern part of the island. This place is famous for its beautiful and unbeatable beaches. If you were wondering whether such a small place is worth a visit, it definitely is. Since the island has been connected to the Dubrovnik Republic throughout history, we can find here a kind of small Dubrovnik. Above the harbour there is a Franciscan monastery, which is currently in a very bad state. It has been empty since the 19th century, but historically it is very important. When the Turks raided Lopud in the 16th century, they robbed the locals and many of them were taken into slavery. For their own safety, the people began to build so-called torets. These were prismatic towers that not only offered shelter for the whole town, but also, and most importantly, a means of defence. The Franciscan monastery had just such towers and the whole town could hide there.

The last town is not found in the most desirable coastal areas, but less than 60 kilometres from the coast.TheKrka River flows through here, whichmeans that not far from the town you will find the stunning and well-known waterfalls and mills.The town has been inhabited since the 10th century and has a rich history.However,thehistorical symbol of the town isthe fortress of Sveti Spas. It is currently the second largest military fortification in Europe .Knin was historically designated as the main Croatian royal town during the time of King Zvonimir. During the Ottoman invasion, refugees, especially Serbs, moved to the city. They were expelled in the first half of the 1990s.Knin became the capital of the self-proclaimed Republic of Serbia before the war began in 1991, and its inhabitantsclaimed the territory. Just below the town of Knin you will find the beginning of theKrka National Park , which continues along the river to the town of Skradin. If you have a few extra days, you shouldn't miss this park during your visit to Croatia.