Hidden
Croatia
Hidden
Croatia
Slow down and soak up a lesser-known side of Croatia. Meet the locals and learn about their traditional crafts on undiscovered islands. Unwind at authentic vineyards. Uncover alternative UNESCO sites that are blissfully free of crowds. And set sail on the Adriatic, pausing to savour secret slices of sand you’ll likely have all to yourself. This is Croatia as you don’t know it. Join us as we uncover this captivating country’s secret, surprising side
Explore hidden Croatia with the Wanderlust travel guide
Explore the categories below to start planning your off the beaten track adventure around Croatia.
Sun, Sea & Sail
Croatia’s captivating coastline is one that truly glitters. We’ve teamed up with the locals and travel journalists who know it best to help you find a pocket of coastal paradise that you can have virtually to yourself.
Finding secret sands in Croatia
Impossibly clear waters, sheltered pebbly coves, long stretches of sand – Croatia’s Adriatic beaches are among the best in Europe. If you want to avoid the crowds and find a secluded spot to yourself, then follow Mary Novakovich’s guide to Croatia’s uncrowded coastal retreats…
Trip planner
Set sail in Croatia
Travel writer and sailing expert Tristan Rutherford guides us through Croatia’s best sailing adventures
Culture
Whatever city, town or village you visit, and whatever time of year you go, you’ll never be far from culture. Croatia is bursting at the seams with UNESCO sites, quirky museums, world-class art galleries, traditional festivals and so much more. We uncover the most authentic, immersive and memorable of the lot.
Come rain or sun, Croatia’s culture always shines
Croatia’s rich history of art and creativity is not fully appreciated, and its cultural institutions offers some incredible days out, whatever the weather. Ellie Swain looks at how you can ensure every day you spend here is a work of art…
Nature
From the dizzying heights of the mountains that drop into the sparkling Adriatic below to the depths of the verdant forests that hide bears, birds and wolves, Croatia’s wild side is certainly worth seeking out.
Hiking highs in Croatia
From the highest mountains and the craggiest cliffs to the greenest islands and most majestic woods, travel writer Rudolf Abraham guides us through some of Croatia’s finest walks…
The bear necessities: A frolic in the forests of Gorski Kotar
Known as Croatia’s ‘green heart’, this little-known region is a great bet for spotting Europe’s biggest predator, as travel writer Richard Mellor discovers…
Island life
Did you know that Croatia is home to more than 1,200 Islands? We give you the details of some of the most remote, least visited, naturally unspoiled and culturally-rich of the lot…
Islands in the sea
5 secret Croatian outcrops
If your idea of a paradise island includes escaping the crowds, ditching cars to explore…
Gastronomy
From sipping fine wines on Slavonia’s vineyards and discovering the UNESCO-listed Mediterranean diet of the Dalmatia coast, to foraging for truffles with the locals and discovering how cheese is made, gastronomy in Croatia is all about slowing down and enjoying a taste of the good life.
6 ways to savour Croatia’s slow food scene
Forget fast food. Croatia is all about slow food, as travel writer Rudolf Abraham finds out…
A flavour of the Med
Full guide to Croatia’s Mediterranean culinary…
Mediterranean Croatia is arguably best explored at the dining table, as Rudolf Abraham discovers…
Destination Guides
Take a look through these full Wanderlust destination guides to start planning out your visit to some of Croatia’s most inspiring towns, cities and regions.
Zagreb, Croatia
Travel writer Mary Novakovich guides us through Croatia’s cool, classy and cultured capital
Gorski Kotar, Croatia
There’s a good reason why Gorski Kotar is nicknamed the ‘green lungs of Croatia’: more than 80% of it is…Culture Calendar
Croatia comes alive with cultural events all year round. Here’s just a taster of what to expect, whatever month you visit.
January
Museum Night, nationwide
Enjoy free entry to hundreds of museums and galleries across the country for one night only, usually hosted on the last Friday of the month.
February
Rijeka Carnival
Throw yourself into the festivities, with traditional Croatian music and colourful costumes rising to the fore at events like the International and Children’s Carnival Parades.
March
Festival of Lights, Zagreb
Welcome the arrival of spring as Croatia’s capital is transformed into a glowing spectacle of sparkling light installations and fascinating art.
April
Istra Music Festival
See three brotherhoods parade through town in eye-catching regalia during Korčula’s Holy Week traditions. The procession honours Croatia’s religious and cultural heritage.
May
Spring Procession of Ljelje/Kraljice, Gorjani
In Gorjani village in May, girls dress as queens and lead the spring procession. Teamed with music, this ancient tradition celebrates Slavonian heritage and local folklore.
June
Half New Years Eve Celebration, Korčula
This unique and unforgettable summer tradition is embraced by locals and visitors alike, and sees the streets of the town transform into a contagious carnival of costumes, music and dance.
July
Delmates vs Romans Match, Sinj
A theatrical re-enactment match inspired by an ancient form of football. Cheer on teams battling in authentic costumes.
(photo: Visit Sinj)
August
Lađa Boat Marathon, Neretva River
Observe a nail-biting river race alongside tens of thousands of other spectators, as around 400 rowers compete against the clock over 22.5km.
September
Vinkovci Autumn
Discover more about the region’s long-standing heritage, from tamburitza melodies to captivating folk dances, and immerse yourself in Slavonian culture via traditional costumes, music and customs.
October
Truffle Festival, Istria
Join truffle hunts, savour tastings and get stuck in with hands-on culinary workshops during Truffle Day events every weekend throughout October.
November
Saint Martin’s Day (Martinje), nationwide
The Feast Day of St Martin (11 Nov) celebrates the patron saint of winemakers and the year’s new vintages. In Sveti Martin na Muri and Požega, join locals for tastings and festivities marking the harvest.
December
Winter Festival, Dubrovnik
During the festive season, Dubrovnik’s charming Old Town fills with seasonal cheer, including Santa parades, a Christmas flea market and live music.
