Our travel guide unveils 5 charming small towns, perfect for off-the-beaten-path adventures. Read along and discover historic sites, breathtaking scenery, and local gems that you simply cannot miss on your trip to Croatia.
As Croatia becomes the new France and Spain for North American travelers seeking to go overseas, I wanted to share with you some of the charming small towns Croatia has to offer! Much like France, Spain, and Italy, Croatia has small, historical villages that are easily accessible with rental cars (which are more than affordable in Croatia as long as they’re returned to the same city). Now onto these charming small towns that you just can’t miss!
5. Groznjan
Nestled in Istria, Croatia, Groznjan is a charming small town overflowing with artistic flair. Known as the artist’s hilltown of Istria, there are dozens of galleries and local artists bustling the streets. Take advantage of its favorable location in Istria, the largest peninsula within the Adriatic Sea, and spend the day adventuring in the beautiful small town of Groznjan.
4. Porec
If you’re looking for a unique summer travel destination that’s still located in Europe, try Porec! It’s a stunning coastal town that’s most famous for its beaches, historical mosaics, and amazing seafood. Boasting a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Porec is the perfect fit for tourists looking to enjoy the Istrian peninsula’s waters while also indulging in its rich historic past.
3. Rastoke
Rastoke is commonly referred to as the real-life Narnia, a nickname quite fitting when you look at this picture of Rastoke in the winter. A quaint, charming small town only an hour or so from Zagreb that you must visit when in the area! This town looks straight out of a fairytale with its intense greenery and contrasting snowy winters. While visiting Rastoke, you must go to the Slunjcica River waterfalls, the mills scattered through the town, and the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
2. Skradin
Wanting to go to the south of France but it’s seeming way out of budget for you? You have to go to Skradin, Croatia! This town’s pace is much more relaxed than other ones in Croatia. If you’re looking for a pause from all the chaos of traveling and touristic destinations, Skradin is a must-see. Many people come here for its Krka National Park, it’s bustling marina, and amazing hiking opportunities!
1. Motovun
Living up to the meaning of its name, “a town in the hills”, Motovun is a charming small town with a rich historical past. A medieval city that is located 25 km from Porec. It is also located in central Istria and is one of the most visited places in Croatia. Must-do’s include going on a Truffle Hunting Adventure, checking out its beautiful historic walls, and enjoying its diverse platters of food!
I hope you guys enjoyed this small round-up of small charming towns in Croatia! I will be compiling a Croatia travel itinerary soon for certain towns in specific so if you have any requests, feel free to let me know. A lot of these towns are easily accessible from Zagreb and are relatively cheap compared to other places in Europe. Before Peak season begins, make sure to look through my other articles on Croatia so you can be more than prepared when you go!