How to Avoid Summer Crowds in Croatia
Exploring Croatia Beyond the Crowds
Since the late ’90s, Croatia has emerged as one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations globally, consistently attracting attention with its stunning 1,777-kilometer coastline, over 1,000 islands, and rich cultural and historical heritage. This popularity shows no signs of slowing down as Croatia enhances its luxury tourism facilities and upgrades hotels and attractions to meet modern standards.
As Croatia’s popularity soars, so do the numbers of visitors flocking to the world-famous hotspots, especially those along the coast. Some visitors may become wary of the crowds that are inevitable in the peak summer season. Many tourists, especially returning guests, increasingly seek to venture off the beaten path and discover a more peaceful Croatia.
As experts in Croatia travel and leaders in the luxury tourism industry, we know a thing or two about planning the perfect vacation away from the stress of group tours and packed city centers. Read on to discover our top tips for avoiding crowds in Croatia, all of which we regularly recommend and implement for our luxury guests.
Visit in the Shoulder Season
Peak season in Croatia runs from June through August. During this time, the country sees its highest numbers. Shoulder season– including May, September, and even October– is the best time to visit Croatia. During these months, you can enjoy milder weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for exploring all that Croatia has to offer at a more relaxed pace.
The sun starts to shine in May, with average temperatures often exceeding 20 degrees celsius, though the water tends to remain a little chilly. By September, most of the crowds have dispersed, yet the summer weather lingers, and the water typically stays warm enough for swimming through October.
If you seek a truly secluded experience, you might even consider visiting Croatia in the winter months. You won’t get to experience the best of the sea, but you will have the famous landmarks and city centers practically to yourself.
Travel Off the Beaten Path
Head North
Northern Croatia is often overlooked by tourists who head straight for the coast. The capital, Zagreb, along with the surrounding Central Croatia region, has castles, vineyards, and a vibrant food scene. By venturing inland, you can escape the summer crowds and enjoy a more relaxed part of your trip.
Island Gems
Consider visiting more secluded and lesser-visited islands like Vis or Šolta. These islands are known for the stunning natural beauty and slower pace. While you can still find luxury accommodations and top-rated restaurants, you’ll avoid the crowds that typically flock to more popular islands like Hvar or Brač.
Village Living
If you seek a truly local experience, trade your city accommodations for the village. Seaside villages offer a quieter and more authentic atmosphere. Since Croatia is so small, you can easily stay outside of the city and still remain accessible to the central action.
Go Local
Seek out local recommendations on where to eat, drink, and shop. Facebook groups are often a great resource for asking locals directly about their favorite spots, and they can also provide insights into hidden gems and upcoming events. For the best advice and discussions to help you find the hidden gems while you’re in Croatia, join our Facebook group with over 100,000 members.
Get on the Sea
The ultimate hack for escaping the crowds in Croatia is to set sail. Whether you rent a boat, take a boat tour, or choose to charter your accommodations, there is nothing more refreshing than experiencing Croatia from the sea.
You can explore popular destinations outside of peak hours, anchor in secluded bays, and seek out the cleanest, most untouched waters at your own pace. There are countless hidden paradises that remain largely undiscovered by the average tourist, and can only be experienced by boat.
As seasoned travelers are aware, the most stressful crowds often gather at travel hubs. In Croatia, ferry ports and bus terminals are particularly notorious for this. To avoid the frustration of long lines and sweltering heat, we highly recommend opting for private boat transfers directly from the airport to your island destinations.
You can learn more about the logistics of renting a boat in Croatia on our blog, or contact our team at Anchor Croatia to discuss your options. We’re here to help.
More Tips
Travel Smart
You can use a number of apps and local websites to check real-time crowd status at the most popular hotspots in Croatia. For example, HAK offers live traffic streams of ferry ports and motor ways.
Rent Smart
Avoid Airbnb’s in crowded areas. Instead, opt for private accommodations like villas or hotels to experience more of a relaxed and secluded vacation.
Book Smart
Instead of joining group tours, consider hiring local private guides for personalized tours that can reveal hidden spots and help you avoid the crowds.
Ready to Discover a More Peaceful Croatia?
Croatia’s charm goes far beyond the most popular tourist hotspots. With a little planning, you can uncover a hidden side of Croatia that few ever experience, all while steering clear of the crowds. Whether it’s visiting during the shoulder season, exploring lesser-known islands, or taking to the sea, there are countless ways to experience Croatia without the crowds.
At Anchor Croatia, we’re dedicated to helping you plan a vacation that perfectly balances relaxation and adventure. With our deep knowledge of Croatia and our expertise in luxury tourism, we’re here to guide you to the most peaceful and authentic experiences the country has to offer. Contact us today to start planning your escape and take advantage of our insider knowledge for a more secluded and memorable trip.
