Dubbed the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, the medieval town of Dubrovnik is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A warren of cobbled streets lined with picturesque red-roofed cottages run from the hillside down into the lively Old Town, where classical musicians perform in the charming square. Enjoy views of the turquoise sea from one of the many seafood restaurants or relax the afternoon away on the beach in the picturesque bay, which offers easy access to nearby islands.
Split, the largest Croatian city on the Adriatic coast, is a vibrant city that offers easy access to the Dalmatian Islands. Before indulging in a spot of island hopping, wander the city’s picturesque squares and marble streets lined with shops, or take some time out on its beaches, in its wooded mountain park or on its harbour side.
In the old town, visit the ancient Diocletian’s Palace and St. Duje's cathedral, a fascinating combination of a Roman temple and Catholic church. This is the oldest cathedral building in the world, and was built around 305 AD as a mausoleum. From its bell tower, you have amazing views across the Adriatic, where we’d recommend enjoying a little snorkelling or sailing.
Off the coast, the beautiful Hvar Island is perfect for a Croatian honeymoon, with lush vineyards, rolling hillsides stained purple with lavender, and surrounding secluded beaches. Wandering the quaint fishing harbour and stylish boutiques of the island is the most relaxing way to let the day go by, while the seafront restaurants and nightlife of the medieval Hvar Town, sometimes dubbed the St Tropez of Croatia, give the island a real buzz post-sunset.
Lopud is compact and picturesque, carpeted in lush green vegetation and blessed with white sandy beaches that are a rare find in Croatia. Consisting of two limestone hills dipping into a pretty valley, a footpath through olive groves and pinewoods connects the main port of Lopud Town, a cluster of old stone houses built around a sheltered bay, and one of the country’s best beaches, Sunj, a horseshoe-shaped shallow bay. Car-free and dotted with historic buildings, Lopud is one of our picks for unspoilt Mediterranean bliss.
Orebic lies to the very south of Croatia on the Peljesac Peninsula, a port town on the Dalmatian Coast and an assortment of terracotta-coloured rooftops amongst dark green trees and countryside, bordered by golden sandy beaches leading into the deep blue Adriatic Sea. The town has a deep-rooted maritime history and the rural area surrounding it is home to hidden coves and beaches, vineyards - a good excuse for some local wine tasting - and a hillside Franciscan monastery worth a visit for the spectacular view alone.
