50 Insanely Spectacular Photos of Croatia: Start Packing!

2/4/2020

Here are 50 of the most sensational photos from all over Croatia, capturing the country's most beautiful and iconic views!

From Dubrovnik's Old Town, to Plitvice Lakes, quaint fairytale towns in Istria, vast fields of Slavonia & Baranje, and everything in between, we've covered it all!

1. Zadar

The Greeting to the Sun, Zadar/Photo credit IG @merikankainzadar

A unique and amazing experience after the sun sets (and throughout the day). The solar panels shown above store energy throughout the day, then create a magnificent light display which changes colors based on the intensity of the waves.

The waves also create music throughout the day, generated from the one and only “sea organ” below. There have been holes strategically drilled into the side of the stone promenade, so as the waves roll in, they actually create music.

2. Pag Island

Beritnica Beach, Pag/Photo credit IG @landscapes_nd_more

Pag is a special island with a one of a kind landscape. Many people compare it to the moon with it’s rocky terrain. Pag is home to incredible beaches, special cheeses, salt, lace and stunning views!

Want to know where the most beautiful beaches in Croatia are? Here is a link that will bring you our recent post about Croatia’s Best 20 Beaches: Sandy, Pebbly & Hidden Gems!

3. Palmizana, Paklinski Island

Palmižana, Paklinski island - Photo credit IG @ufukd_86

Palmizana is a small uninhabited village on the Pakinski Islands. It's located just off the island of the larger island of Hvar, and makes for a perfect day trip by boat! You can even get there by kayak, and paddle around to find hidden spots throughout the rest of the beautiful archipelago.

4. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik - Photo credit IG @karlo.tom

Dubrovnik is a stunning historical city, perfectly preserved and full of charm. The Old Town is a beautiful medieval treasure, which is completely walled, only accessible by the city gates. The whole Old Town is “paved” with stunning, white, marble stone and it’s truly majestic.

5. Rastoke

Rastoke/Photo credit IG @benowensphoto

If you are visiting Plitvice Lakes, be sure not to miss out on this quaint, nearby watermill village. Rastoke looks like it’s straight from a fairytale with the sweet, aged homes full of character, and the turquoise water flowing throughout. Rastoke is actually where the Slunjcica River flows into the Korana River.

6. Zrmanja River

Zrmanja River Canyon/ Photo credit IG @onlybyland

Croatia is full of natural jewels, and Zrmanja River is definitely one of them! The river is crystal clear, and perfect for swimming, kayaking and canoeing, along with other outdoor activities like hiking to get some of these spectacular views! It’s a quieter place, less discovered, so you can truly enjoy some peace in mother nature if you decide visit!

7. Baranja Region

Kneževi vinogradi, Baranja/Photo credit IG @lampa8

Baranja is a region in the eastern part of Croatia, located on the Drava and Danube rivers. The region is also known for its wine, delicious hearty cuisine, traditional villages, fertile land, and of course the beautiful Kopački Rit Nature Park.

8. Trogir

View from the bell tower of St. Lawrence Cathedral, Trogir

Trogir is a stunning, UNESCO protected city dating back to 3 B.C. There is (obviously) a lot of history, a fabulous, picturesque old town with a bell town hosting breathtaking views of the city, the clock town and the sea in the distance, and a gorgeous promenade along the sea, perfect for a stroll.

9. Zagreb

St.Mark's square, Zagreb/Photo credit IG @rajbose1

Zagreb was founded in 1094 and is a growing central European metropolis, home to around 800 000 people. Zagreb has a charming Old Town, medieval architecture, cobblestone streets and a lively vibe. It’s all built around the central square, Trg Bana Josipa Jelicica, which is now a lovely pedestrian-only zone.

Similar to other capital cities, Zagreb has many museums, parks, churches, galleries, restaurants and activities to offer, year round!

Looking for day trips from Zagreb? Read our recent post: Top 10 Day Trips From Zagreb, Within 1hr Drive

10. Osijek

The pedestrian bridge,Osijek - Photo credit IG @sladjana_vk

This pedestrian bridge is a symbol of Osijek (located in the east of Croatia). The bridge was completed in recent history (1981) but had to be extensively repaired and almost completely rebuilt after the war in the early nineties. The view of the river and the old fortress from the bridge is breathtaking, and certainly worth a visit!

11. Visovac

Visovac Monastery - Photo credit IG @sandra.sachsenhauser

This breathtaking little island is home to a monastery and museum, surrounded by an incredible garden. Visovac is located on the Krka River, and is a beautiful, peaceful, tranquil escape to visit.

12. Split

Saint Domnius Cathedral, Split - Photo credit IG @swedishnomad

Saint Domnius Cathedral was built in 305 AD during the construction of the Diocletian's palace. The original structure served as the Mausoleum of Diocletian. The cathedral itself was consecrated at the turn of the 7th century (the bell tower was added in the 12th century). It’s considered the oldest Catholic cathedral in the world that still uses its original structure.

13. Pula

Pula Arena Amphitheater - Photo credit IG @koloi_drone

The amphitheater in Pula is a remarkable treasure of the past. The original stone amphitheater was constructed by Emperor Claudius around 27BC, but then later enlarged by Emperor Vespasian in order to host gladiators. Today, the amphitheater is used for concerts of all sorts, and seats 5,000 people.

14. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes - Photo credit IG @onehangrytraveller

Plitvice Lakes is a true paradise for nature lovers. The park is a spectacular place, full of breathtaking views, and natural surroundings including waterfalls, lakes, rivers, streams and forests, with charming wooden boardwalks to guide the way. It’s one of Croatia’s UNESCO protected sites, and covers around 300 square kilometers of natural beauty.

15. Korcula Island

Korcula - Photo credit IG @epepa.eu

Korcula is one of Croatia‘s most beautiful islands. It’s also home to one of the finest surviving fortified medieval towns, Korcula Town, with majestic city walls, and a charming, historic old town feel, including quaint little streets and alleyways winding around throughout.

16. Baranja

Bansko brdo, Baranja - Photo credit IG @dubravkofranjin

Another view from Baranja! The fields are breathtaking and endless in this unique region of Croatia!

17. Omis

Cetina river, Omiš - Photo credit IG @nena.pivac

The beautiful town of Omis is located right on the Cetina River. The views are unbelievable as you walk along the harbor, and you see the river winding its way between two mountain faces. You can capture other magical views at the top of the mountain, where you can also find remaining forts from when the Venetians protected themselves from the Ottoman Empire.

18. Hvar Town, Hvar

Hvar town - Photo credit IG @br.aerials

With its rich history, architecture, nature and mild climate, Hvar is indeed an island gem on the Adriatic Sea. Hvar Island has incredible beaches, charming towns, lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards, lost villages to explore, and also is known as the sunniest place on the Adriatic!

19. Motovun

Motovun, Istria - Photo credit IG @danielbasic_photography

Motovun is a fairytale-like town, located in Northern Istria. Built on a hilltop, it hosts incredible views of the surroundings. The whole town, including its walls and churches, are also very well preserved, which makes it very interesting to visit. Motovun is first mentioned in a document dating back to 804 AD.

20. Bale

Bale, Istria - Photo credit IG @my.name.is.tibor

Bale is a picturesque little Istrian town, not far from the coast. It’s quaint, winding streets full of cobblestone and charm, give this town a nice warmth. It’s a perfect place to take a stroll, admire the old buildings, pathways and churches, built around an old medieval castle.

21. Blue Lake, Imotski

Blue Lake, Imotski - Photo credit IG @dorjan_

Imotski is a popular destination for swimming, hiking and sightseeing, with it’s peaceful surroundings. The Blue Lake lies in a sink hole, likely created by a collapse of a large cave. Nice place for a game of soccer/football, too!

22. Rovinj

Rovinj - Photo credit IG @langer_danger

Rovinj is a lovely, coastal town in Western Istria. It’s filled with many quaint cobblestone streets, all winding around the old town. You’ll enjoy getting lost as you stroll through the charming streets, most leading eventually to a small path to the sea. It’s a town rich with history and culture, and should definitely make it on your list of places to see in Croatia.

23. Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes NP - Photo credit IG @cherrys.picks

We couldn't resist another fabulous picture of Plitvice Lakes. It's definitely one of the most photogenic places in Croatia, and is the subject of many photographer's dreams!

24. Sibenik

The Cathedral of St James, Šibenik - Photo credit IG @kreso_bilusic

Sibenik is a wonderful coastal town in Croatia, located between Zadar and Split. It’s home to many marvelous sights, but one in particular stands out - and that’s St. James Cathedral. This cathedral is actually the only one built entirely out of stone, most of which came from a nearby quarry on Brac Island. The detail and craftsmanship with this incredible structure will leave you amazed!

25. Komiza, Vis

Komiža, Vis - Photo credit IG @luka328

The island of Vis is known for its traditional Dalmatian architecture and its crystal clear island waters. It’s one of the furthest islands off the coast of Croatia, but it’s worth the distance once you get there. Just off the western shore, you’ll find the famous Blue & Green Caves, which showcase one of Mother-nature’s extraordinary beauties!

The water might look beautiful, but here are a few tips to stay safe while swimming in Croatia: 8 Reasons You Should Never Swim in the Adriatic

26. Badija Island

Badija island near Korčula - Photo credit @alexisblues_

Badija Island is the perfect escape as a day trip from Korcula. Discover untouched nature, wildlife, and a beautiful monastery, which is a piece of history. If you’re up for the challenge, climb to the top of the chapel on the hill for some breathtaking views (and even a cold drink).

27. Golubinka Cave, Dugi Otok

Golubinka cave, Dugi Otok - Photo credit IG @gschmidt9

Dugi Otok is located off the coast of Zadar, and is a real treasure of an island in Croatia. It’s home to a few of the most beautiful spots, many of which tourists know nothing about. One of those spots is Golubinka cave, where you can enter from above sea level. It’s also home to the largest colony of bats on Dugi Otok!

28. Promina

Promina - Photo credit IG @mariosucic5

Promina is a mountain in Dalmatia in the middle of Sibenik-Knin county. It’s located north of Drnis, and south of Knin, and the mountain dominates the whole landscape of the surrounding area. From the mountain you can enjoy spectacular views of Krka River, Cikola River, as well as the Adriatic Sea in the distance. It’s definitely worth the climb if you’re looking for an active holiday, but even the view from the ground looking up at the mountain is quite a beautiful sight!

29. Zlatni Rat, Brac Island

Zlatni Rat Beach - Bol, Brač - Photo credit IG @anniandtimo

This beach has become a true symbol of the Adriatic Sea! It’s a remarkable work of nature, as the tide molds the beach into a new shape each day. The water is unbelievably clear, and there is also a refreshing pine forest behind the beach to catch some shade, and enjoy some afternoon rest.

30. Korcula Island

Korcula town - Photo credit IG @take.you.to

Korcula is one of Croatia's most treasured islands. The island's largest city, Korcula City, is known as Little Dubrovnik and is a historically rich town with stone walls, quaint streets and winding pathways. Wine lovers can also satisfy their taste buds at one of the many vineyards on the island. Korcula is also the home of Marco Polo. His house is now a museum which can be visited.

31. Motovun

Motovun, Istria - Photo credit IG @_maelie_bacinger

Motovun is a place that practically begs you to take its photo. This magnificent walled city sitting on the hilltop is picturesque beyond words, which is why we had to include another photo of Motovun from a different angle.

32. Zagreb

Zagreb - Photo credit IG @watchluke

St. Mark's square is located in the upper town in Zagreb, Croatia’s beautiful capital. The distinctly colorful, tiled roof makes this church quite unique and impressive. The red, blue and white tiles represent the city’s coat of arms, as well as the coat of arms of the kingdom of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia.

33. Split

Split - Photo credit IG @mato_jelic

Split is a gorgeous and lively city (the second largest city in Croatia). Split maintains just the right balance of tradition with a modern twist with its history, culture and local offerings. Step inside the UNESCO site, Diocletian's Palace, walk along the promenade that lines the sea, then and enjoy a succulent meal at one of the many thriving local restaurants!

34. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik - Photo credit IG @visualxplores

Dubrovnik is probably the most famous and well known city in Croatia. Its spectacular walled Old Town was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1979. Marvel in the beautiful white marble streets and baroque buildings as you stroll through the endless pathways that wind around town. Try to imagine what took place within these walls, hundreds of years ago, as you explore the unique cultural and historical sites around town.

35. Maslenica

Maslenica bridge - Photo credit IG @anajuriccivro_photography

Maslenica is home to this marvelous structure! The bridge here is 315m long and crosses the Novsko Zdrilo Strait. The bridge held great significance during the Croatian Homeland War. It was rebuilt into the beautiful structure that stands today, and some visitors even choose to use the bridge as a base for bungee jumping!

36. Lopud

Lopud island - Photo credit IG @br.aerials

This little island off the coast of Dubrovnik (and part of the Elaphite Island archipelago) is currently only inhabited by around 200 people (drastically down from its glory days when there were around 4000 residents). Since there was quite the population in the past, there are many (beautifully restored) churches, a monastery, and a charming promenade. This island is also home to a beautiful sandy beach on the north side (Slunj Beach), which stretches about 300m.

37. Cetina, Omis

Cetina, Omiš - Photo credit @igraphis

The unspoiled nature of the Cetina Canyon is what makes this place a breathtaking sight to see. There are also many medieval forts that can be found dotted along the course of the Cetina, which are reminders of the region’s turbulent past. Some of the forts are partially destroyed, while others stand more intact, high in the hills above the canyon.

38. Pag Island

Pag island - Photo credit IG @matterarts_

We couldn't resist another sensational photo of Pag, taken with the small towns and orange rooftops in the distance, the turquoise water, the Croatian flag, and the distinct rocky terrain of the island.

39. Hum

Hum, Istria - Photo credit IG @truffles_20

The sweet, quaint town of Hum is actually the smallest town in the world, with a population of 30, according to the 2011 census. The whole town was built with stone, there are cobblestone streets throughout, and picturesque views of the region surrounding this little gem. There are some cute little shops offering local delicacies like truffles, olive oil, wine, and trinkets. Definitely worth a stop if you’re on your way in or out of other places in Istria!

40. Banje Beach

Banje beach, Dubrovnik - Photo credit IG @jem_essex

One of the most picturesque views of Banje Beach with Dubrovnik’s Old Town in the distance. You can also see Lokrum Island just off the shore. A beach with a view like that - what more could you ask for while swimming in the clear seas of the Adriatic!

41. Trakoscan Castle

Trakoscan castle - Photo credit IG @jurij_pelc

Trakoscan Castle is one of the most stunning castles in the country and set in the most beautiful surroundings. Visit the museum and listen to stories of the daily life of residents back in their time, then take some time to walk around the small lake to admire the castle’s beauty from the most picture-perfect perspective.

42. Makarska Riviera

Makarska - Photo credit IG @vikingontherun

Makarska Riviera is located between Split and Dubrovnik (closer to Split) and is home to some of the most spectacular beaches in Croatia. Hvar and Brac Islands are also just a hop, skip and a jump away, and the sea is perfect for swimming with its calm, crystal clear water. The view of Makarska from the water embodies much of what Croatia has to offer - mountains, the sea, picturesque towns, and spectacular scenery all around.

43. Trsteno Arboretum

Trsteno Arboretum - Photo credit IG @adaras

Trsteno Arboretum was actually once a summer residence and garden built in 1494, making it the oldest arboretum in the region. It’s an exquisite, established arboretum with an old noble family’s summer home in the middle (the Gozze Family, who had sea captains bring back plants and seeds from their travels, so they could grow their arboretum). It’s now a peaceful, well maintained oasis away from the crowds of Dubrovnik.

44. Kuda's Bridge, Krupa River

Kuda's bridge, Krupa river - Photo credit Tomislav Zorić

Located right on the Krupa River, you can find an astonishing 200 year old bridge. Built in the perfect spot in the canyon, the bridge makes it much easier to reach Golubic Village. According to Croatian folk tales, the bridge was built by a local man, in order for him to be able to cross the river and be with his sweetheart.

45. Dakovo Cathedral

Đakovo Cathedral - Photo credit IG @bruno.colic

The Cathedral of St. Peter is the home to the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Đakovo-Osijek. It’s the largest church in this part of Europe (between Istanbul and Rome). Seven million bricks were used to construct the cathedral, and also showcases 36 thirty square foot frescoes, based on stories from the Old Testament.

46. Krka National Park

Krka waterfalls - Photo credit IG @amberlcn

Krka National Park is another wonder of Mother Nature! With over 100 remarkable square kilometers of waterfalls, forests, streams, and lakes, the beauty seems endless. It’s perhaps most famous for the lake where you can swim near the falls (however, this season will be the last where guests will be able to swim there - next season, it will be forbidden, and you’ll only be able to admire the beauty from the paths on the shore).

47. Zagreb, King Tomislav Square

King Tomislav square, Zagreb - Photo credit IG @cherrys.picks

This is the first view of Zagreb many visitors will see, as the train station is at the foot of this beautiful square & stunning park. It’s dedicated to the first Croatian King, King Tomislav. It’s a place where you can relax, get some fresh air, sit on a bench, read a book, have a picnic and soak up the atmosphere that surrounds you!

48. Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik - Photo credit IG @jazeelmuhammedkeloth

Sorry, but we’re not sorry about showcasing another photo of this wonderfully, walled city. Dubrovnik is magical, and should be on everyone’s list of places to discover! It's stunning in the morning, at noon and at night as the sun sets behind the walls.

49. Plitvice Lakes, Lower Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park

This place can definitely compete as one of the most beautiful spots on the planet. Look at this view from the cliff above, staring down at the lakes, the foliage, the shades of blue in the water, and the wooden pathway to the right of the picture. The whole park is stunning and is absolutely a place worth visiting.

50. Varazdin

King Tomislav square, Varazdin - Photo credit IG @vlado.zagorec

This magical photo encapsulates the beauty of the Old Town in Varazdin. Located about an hour from Zagreb, Varazdin is rich with history and culture (it was actually Croatia’s first capital city). Here the beautiful main square is featured after rainfall. We love this photo, as well as the city.

We hope you've enjoyed the list! Leave a comment below and let us know what photo was your favorite!

If you’re interested in reading a few of our other posts about Croatia:

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