Best Time to Visit Croatia

Thinking about visiting the Adriatic coast and wondering when is the best time to visit Croatia? Using our travel guide, you can explore what Croatia has to offer year-round, from water sports to arts and culture, great food and drink, and activities for all – whether that’s hiking or admiring the historic splendour of Dubrovnik. Our handy guide will help you discover when to go to Croatia for hot weather and beaches, or the best month to go to Croatia to enjoy the country without the crowds.

Here's our top ten reasons to visit Croatia.

Let’s dive in

For the hottest temperatures, the best time to visit Croatia is July and August, while the best months to go to Croatia to still enjoy the sun but with fewer people are May and September.

When to visit Croatia really depends on what type of trip you’re planning. For relaxing by the coast, eating and drinking your way around the country and island-hopping, you’ll want to go in May, June or early autumn to miss the crowds of July and August. If you're keen on a curated experience, our Croatia escorted tours might be the perfect fit for you.

If your ideal holiday involves exploring Croatia’s breathtaking national parks, May or September are excellent months to visit. Croatia’s eight national parks offer superb opportunities to immerse yourself in unspoilt nature and gaze at cascading waterfalls. The country’s long and inviting coastline is also an area of great beauty and a natural attraction for sailors and anyone who enjoys being on the coast. 

The best season to visit Croatia

When choosing the best time to visit Croatia, it’s important to take into account not just the weather, but whether it’s a busy time. Let’s explore the best season to visit Croatia.

Spring in Croatia

Spring in Croatia is when it starts to warm up, particularly in May, when there is more sun. During Easter, there is a range of local festivities, and this is an amazing time to go hiking and explore the national parks of Croatia. You may need a jacket for evenings, which can be cooler. You can discover so much of Croatia in our Croatia Uncovered tour, which is ideal during spring.

Here are our top tips for what to do in Croatia in spring.

• Take in the Easter parades and processions across the country, especially on the islands of Hvar and Korčula.
• Visit Krka or Plitvice national parks in late spring to make the most of the sun, but before it gets too hot to spend a lot of time being active outdoors.
• Sailing on the coast is a perfect activity in spring when the temperature is warming up. Exploring Croatia by boat is an ideal way to experience this iconic coastline in the Spring.

Summer in Croatia

Summer in Croatia is reliably warm, particularly in July and August, but it's also when the country is busiest – especially on and around the coast. Summer in Croatia is the best time to visit for basking in the sun, boat trips, exploring captivating islands, and taking part in fun activities like water sports. Our Croatia Island Hopping is perfect at this time of year.

Here are our top tips for what to do in Croatia in summer.

• Croatia celebrates independence day in June, with events, street parties and live music happening all over the country.
• The weather in June in Croatia is perfect for sunbathing, and beaches are less busy than in July and August.
• Visit one of the many islands dotting the coast of Croatia – Hvar, Korčula and Brac being among the more popular. Why not try our Croatian Island Hopping tour to sample the best of Croatia’s gorgeous islands?
• As temperatures inland can be slightly cooler than on the coast, it’s a lovely time to visit the national parks.
• Enjoy local music as all types of performers take to stages large and small across the country during the summer months.

Autumn in Croatia

Autumn in Croatia is a beautiful time to visit, particularly in September when it’s still very sunny and warm, but less busy than in peak season. You’ll find that as autumn goes on, it will get cooler with fascinating changes in the natural environment. Foliage will be changing colour in the national parks and outdoor activities may be more enjoyable in the cooler weather. It can be the perfect time for exploring historic sites. 

Here are our top tips for what to do in Croatia in autumn.

• Autumn is a great time to visit Dubrovnik as you can explore the city without the crowds. You could add on a trip to Montenegro, which is very close to Dubrovnik. Our Dubrovnik and Highlights of Montenegro tour is the perfect way to discover these two stunning destinations.
• This is a great time of year to take in the natural beauty of the country.
• In October, many vineyards start their wine harvest which is a lovely way to discover local wines.
• Taste seasonal specialities in autumn in Croatia, such as truffles or chestnuts. Read more about Croatia’s amazing food and drink scene.

Winter in Croatia

Although we don't visit Croatia in its winter months, we would be remiss, not to mention the stunning beauty you can find on the coast or inland when you visit Croatia during this time. These cooler months can bring snow to inland areas, while on the Adriatic coast, it can still be mild enough to do sightseeing trips. Winter is usually the quietest time to visit Croatia, as temperatures drop, but Croatia is also lively around the festive period with homes full of lights, decorated trees and deliciously warming mulled wine.

Here are our top tips for what to do in Croatia in winter:

• Check out Advent celebrations and vibrant Christmas markets.
• Across the country, as people get ready for the festive season, you can sample local specialities like gingerbread cookies and vanilla pastries.
• On the other side of the country in Dubrovnik, the Feast of Saint Blaise is celebrated, honouring the city’s patron saint.
• If you love snow, head inland in winter to experience colder temperatures than you'll find on the coast. Snow makes a beautiful backdrop to your sightseeing tours.

The best month to visit Croatia

January and February

Best for: Rijeka Carnival, snowy sightseeing

The quietest months for tourists, January and February in Croatia are cold – especially inland where you could get snow – but still bursting with cultural activities and great food and drink. 

March and April

Best for: Sailing the beautiful coast

March and April are when the tourist season begins to take off, with temperatures rising and visitors starting to arrive. You can still avoid the biggest crowds as it’s not yet peak season, but the weather can be changeable.

May and June

Best for: National parks, hiking and beaches

Arguably the best time to visit Croatia is in May and June. The weather is warm, but perfect for being outdoors. Enjoy the coast and beaches, or head inland to the national parks to marvel at the rivers and lakes.

July, August and September

Best for: Island hopping and water sports

The hottest time of year to visit Croatia is in July and August. It’s also the busiest time to visit and the time of year when coastal resorts and islands are at their most lively. Fantastic weather is almost guaranteed — making it an ideal time for a Croatia island hopping holiday or visiting Croatia's Opatija Riviera.

October

Best for: Seasonal food and wine harvests

Early autumn is a great time to visit Croatia, with crowds dispersing but the warm weather sticking around. This makes it the perfect time for outdoor activities like cycling, or you could enjoy a local food market as they celebrate the harvest.

November and December

Best for: Quieter attractions

November and December in Croatia are festive and welcoming, with Christmas traditions and cultural gatherings. You’ll see a different side of the country at this time of year, and the weather can still be mild on the coast.

Insider tips for timing your visit

• Fancy island-hopping but not a fan of crowds?Visit the most popular islands like Hvar and Korčula at a quieter time of year and enjoy an idyllic cruise to many other lovely spots.
• If your favourite activity in Croatia is visiting the national parks, why not go in autumn when you can see the foliage changing colour? It’s a little cooler than in summer, and the parks won’t be as busy.
• Want to soak up the sun but looking for something a bit more tranquil, book for June rather than July or August. This way you can miss the peak season but still enjoy wonderful weather.
• Consider visiting in autumn and winter. The temperatures are mild along the coast and many towns and areas host festivals and cultural events, so there will be plenty of things to do.
• Did you know scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed in Dubrovnik? You can take a tour and explore the locations used for King’s Landing in the city.

When to go to Croatia: Summary

Croatia is a great place to visit all year. Summer is sunny but can be crowded. Spring and autumn are nice, less crowded, and colourful. Winter is unique with Christmas markets and cosy towns. Use our guide to create an unforgettable Croatian adventure tailored to your preferences.