So, you’re planning a vacation in Croatia this summer?  Even though it’s a small European country, it is rich with nature and history. That’s why it can be challenging to decide on the right places to visit. There are just so many charming towns, beautiful beaches and natural wonders worthy of exploring! To help you out, we’ve prepared a Croatia bucket list!

So here are top 7 places we believe should be a part of your Croatia bucket list!

1) Hike in Plitvice Lakes

Croatia’s most famous national park became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. Its 16 interconnected lakes create some of the most beautiful waterfalls that make the perfect background for some Insta-worthy photos! Enjoy nature and the calming sounds of birds and water. Take a day off from your screens and worries, pack a few sandwiches and hike your way to a good night’s sleep!

The park gets more than 1 million visitors each year. Summer months are the most crowded, but Plitvice Lakes are wonderful all year round. It has many miles of pathways to explore so make sure to plan for a whole day here, or maybe even two! The easiest and fastest way to get there is from Zagreb or Zadar.

2) Roam around the charming Rovinj

Rovinj is a charming old town located in the Istria region of Croatia. Its cobblestone alleys, colorful houses, charismatic town squares and a lively harbor are bound to make you feel like you’re in another world. It’s a perfect location if you like to explore historic sites on foot! Get lost in the maze of its streets and you just might discover some hidden secrets or great restaurants.

Rovinj boasts one of the best ice creams in Croatia, so make sure to try one! There are also a few beaches where you can go snorkeling or swimming. And while Rovinj isn’t really a town with many nightclubs, there are plenty of cafes and cocktail bars perfect for some relaxation.

3) Enjoy some history in Diocletian’s Palace in Split

Visit the ancient palace made for the Roman emperor Diocletian 1700 years ago. The old town of Split grew around it, so the palace is now part and parcel of the city itself. It’s the beating heart of the historical city with vendors of all kinds offering their products to tourists and locals alike. Cafes, boutiques, museums, hotels and an ancient cathedral – you can find all of that within the palace’s walls.

Diocletian’s Palace is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s one of the rare ones still bustling with signs of everyday life of the locals. After you’re done exploring the history of the place, take a stroll along the Riva, a promenade by the sea in front of the palace. It’s a perfect place for a coffee break with a sea view!

4) Swim at the Golden Horn beach on Brač island

And while you’re in Split, why not take the chance to take a private boat tour to the famous Golden Horn beach?

The pebbled beach is a natural phenomenon because it never sits completely still. The wind, waves and sea currents subtly change its position and shape. Its unique shape made it one of the symbols of the Croatian coast and it’s even been listed as one of the top beaches in the world! So, it really is a must see!

Golden Horn beach is an ideal location to experience swimming in the deep blue Adriatic sea. Plus, the beach itself offers various attractions and water toys for rent! So, you’ll have lots of fun even if you’re not the person for lying on the beach all day catching that golden tan. The town of Bol is nearby, so great food and local wine are just minutes away!

5) Cruise the Pakleni Islands

The dreamy archipelago of 19 scenic islands is perfect for a boat ride. Hire a local to show you around. They’ll know all the best places where you can get a real taste of the Adriatic paradise – swim, dive, snorkel or lounge at the beach bar by the sea. A private boat tour will be perfect for you if you like to do everything at your own pace and not depend on the crowd. Take some time and visit the old town of Hvar along the way to add a bit of history to your adventure!

So, spend the day enjoying the deep blue of the sea! Put on your best swimsuit and let the salt in your hair give you those beach waves. If you’re a lover of the sea, don’t let Pakleni Islands slip off your Croatia bucket list

6) Explore the Cetina canyon

The Cetina river canyon is located near the town of Omiš. It’s about an hour’s drive from Split and it’s the right place to have some adventure in nature! Here, you can go kayaking, rafting and canyoning. Don’t skip the zipline either. Mix some great scenery and views with a shot of adrenaline for the best Croatian vacation yet!

You can also take a long walk along the river or a sightseeing boat tour. Pay close attention to your surroundings because you just might stumble into a medieval fort or two! So, if you’re a fan of an active holiday in nature, you won’t want to miss this one.

7) Check Dubrovnik off your Croatia bucket list

Now, this one is perhaps the most famous city in Croatia. And it’s famous for a reason! The history, charming streets and breathtaking view from the city’s walls are enough to make you fall in love with the place. And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the experience will be even more enjoyable for you!

Take a walk along the city’s walls, but try doing it early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the high sun. You’ll get a stunning view of the sea and the city’s rooftops. It’s the perfect place to make some memories, romantic or otherwise! After that, take some time to roam the streets of Dubrovnik, take a ride to Lokrum island or go catch the sunset from the top of the Srđ Hill!