Croatia with Kids
Stunning coastline, Game of Thrones adventures, and crystal-clear waters
Croatia has emerged as one of Europe's most exciting family destinations, combining stunning Adriatic coastline, fascinating history, and increasingly excellent tourist infrastructure. From the medieval walls of Dubrovnik to the waterfalls of Plitvice, Croatia offers experiences that captivate children and adults alike. The country is safe, the people are welcoming, and the food features plenty of familiar Mediterranean flavours that children enjoy.
Best Time to Visit
The best months for a Croatian family holiday are late May to mid-June, or September. During these periods, you will enjoy warm weather perfect for swimming (25-28C), manageable crowds at popular sites, and better accommodation rates than peak summer.
July and August are extremely busy, particularly in Dubrovnik and Split. Cruise ships disgorge thousands of visitors daily, and temperatures can exceed 35C. If you must visit in peak season, start sightseeing early (before 9am) and retreat to beaches or pools during the hottest hours.
Avoid the Crowds
Croatian school holidays run from mid-June to early September, so local families also crowd the beaches during August. Early June offers warm sea temperatures with far fewer people.
Where to Stay
Croatia offers diverse accommodation options, from historic apartments within medieval walls to modern family resorts with splash parks. Here are the best bases for families:
- Split area - The best base for families wanting a mix of history, beaches, and island access. Stay in Podstrana or Stobrec for beaches while being close to Split old town
- Dubrovnik - Expensive but unmissable. Stay in Lapad or Babin Kuk for beaches, or Cavtat (20 minutes south) for a quieter, more affordable alternative
- Istria - The peninsula in the north offers excellent family resorts, quieter beaches, and easy access from northern Europe. Porec and Rovinj are popular choices
- Islands - Brac and Hvar offer stunning beaches but require ferry access. Best for families with older children who can manage the logistics
- Zadar - Often overlooked but excellent for families. Good beaches, interesting old town with sea organ, and gateway to national parks
Apartment Tip
Many Croatian apartments are within historic buildings with lots of stairs. Always check whether there is lift access if travelling with pushchairs or mobility requirements.
For a two-week family holiday, consider splitting your time between two bases: one week near Split (for beaches and Plitvice day trip) and one week in Dubrovnik (for old town and islands).
Getting Around
Croatia is well-suited to family road trips along its stunning coastal highway. However, ferries and buses also provide good coverage for those who prefer not to drive.
- Car hire - The most flexible option for families. The coastal D8 highway is scenic but winding in places. Child car seats should be booked in advance as availability is limited
- Ferries - Jadrolinija operates routes to all major islands. Children under 3 travel free, 3-12 pay half fare. Book vehicles in advance for peak season
- Buses - Croatia has an excellent bus network. FlixBus and local operators connect all major destinations. Air-conditioned and child-friendly
- Water taxis - Useful for island hopping and reaching smaller destinations. Children love the speed and spray
- Uber - Available in Split, Dubrovnik, and Zagreb. Often cheaper than taxis and useful for airport transfers
Border Crossing
If driving between Split and Dubrovnik, you will briefly enter Bosnia and Herzegovina at Neum. Ensure you have all necessary documents for border crossings.
Best Family Beaches
Croatian beaches are predominantly pebbly rather than sandy, which keeps the water remarkably clear but requires adjustment for families used to sandy shores. Water shoes are essential for children.
- Zlatni Rat, Brac - Croatia's most famous beach. The distinctive horn shape changes with currents and winds. Pebbly but with excellent facilities
- Bacvice, Split - Sandy beach in the city with shallow water perfect for young children. Home to picigin, a Croatian ball game kids can join
- Sunj Beach, Lopud - Rare sandy beach reached by boat from Dubrovnik. Shallow, calm water ideal for toddlers
- Copacabana Beach, Dubrovnik - Family-friendly pebble beach in Babin Kuk with sun loungers, restaurants, and water sports
- Kamenjak, Istria - Nature reserve with multiple coves. Cliff jumping for brave older children (supervised), snorkelling, and a great beach bar
- Sakarun, Dugi Otok - Stunning white sand beach on a quieter island. Worth the ferry journey for families seeking less crowded shores
Beach Safety
Pack a small inflatable for younger children. Croatian beaches often drop off quickly, and a swim ring or float helps children feel confident in deeper water.
Top Family Activities
Croatia offers far more than beaches. From medieval cities to cascading waterfalls, here are the top experiences for families:
- Dubrovnik city walls - The full circuit is 2km but manageable for children 5+. Time your walk for early morning to avoid heat and crowds. Game of Thrones fans will recognise many locations
- Plitvice Lakes National Park - Stunning turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls. Boardwalk trails are pushchair-friendly on lower routes. Arrive early to avoid queues
- Krka National Park - Like Plitvice but you can swim at the base of waterfalls. More child-friendly and closer to the coast
- Sea kayaking - Family-friendly tours available from Dubrovnik and Split. Paddle around medieval walls and to hidden caves
- Diocletian's Palace, Split - Ancient Roman palace that's now a living city. Children love exploring the underground chambers
- Game of Thrones tours - Available in Dubrovnik and Split. Great for teenagers who are fans of the show
- Rope parks and zip lines - Adventure parks near Omis offer zip lining over canyons. Age and height restrictions apply
Beat Dubrovnik Crowds
Dubrovnik can be overwhelming with cruise ship crowds. Consider the Dubrovnik Card which includes city walls access and buses, allowing you to arrive early when gates open at 8am.
Game of Thrones for Teenagers
If you have teenagers who are fans of the show, Croatia becomes infinitely more exciting. Many filming locations are easily accessible and make sightseeing much more engaging for reluctant teen tourists.
- King's Landing (Dubrovnik) - The old town and city walls feature extensively. Key spots include Pile Gate, Fort Lovrijenac, and the Jesuit Steps
- The Red Keep (Dubrovnik) - Lovrijenac Fortress served as the exterior. Fantastic views and less crowded than the walls
- Meereen (Split) - Diocletian's Palace basement levels were Daenerys's throne room
- Braavos (Sibenik) - The narrow streets of this often-overlooked town featured as Braavos
- Qarth (Lokrum Island) - Short ferry ride from Dubrovnik. The botanical gardens featured in Qarth scenes
Teen Engagement
Download a Game of Thrones filming locations map before you go. Teenagers will be far more engaged when they can identify scenes from the show at each location.
Eating Out with Kids
Croatian cuisine combines Mediterranean and Central European influences, offering plenty of options for young eaters. Seafood is exceptional along the coast, while inland areas specialise in grilled meats.
- Kid-friendly dishes - Pizza (excellent quality), cevapcici (grilled meat fingers), fried calamari, risotto, pasta dishes, chips with everything
- Fresh seafood - Fish is often priced by weight. Ask before ordering to avoid bill shock. Grilled sea bass or bream are child-friendly choices
- Snacks - Burek (cheese or meat pastry) from bakeries makes a cheap, filling snack. Ice cream shops are everywhere
- Drinks - Fresh fruit juices, cedevita (vitamin drink loved by Croatian children), excellent local ice cream
- Dining times - Croatians eat later than British families but tourist restaurants serve from 6pm
Konoba restaurants are traditional Croatian eateries offering good value and authentic food. They are often more child-friendly than touristy seafront restaurants.
Save Money
Water is expensive in tourist areas. Buy large bottles from supermarkets and refill. Tap water is safe to drink throughout Croatia.
Practical Tips
- Currency - Croatia adopted the Euro in January 2023, making payment much easier for UK visitors
- Language - English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially by younger Croatians
- Pushchair access - Historic centres are challenging with cobblestones and steps. Baby carriers work better in old towns
- Sun protection - Mediterranean sun is strong. High-factor sunscreen, hats, and UV swimwear are essential
- Water shoes - Essential for pebbly beaches and rocky coastlines. Buy a cheap pair locally if you forget
- Pharmacies - Look for the green cross. Well-stocked and pharmacists often speak English. Called ljekarna
- Healthcare - Bring your GHIC card for emergency treatment. Travel insurance is still essential
- Mosquitoes - Can be problematic near standing water. Pack repellent and after-bite treatment
Planning what to pack? Generate a personalised packing list for your Croatia family holiday.
Build My Packing ListBudget Guide
Croatia has become more expensive in recent years but still offers reasonable value. Expect to pay:
- Flights - 100-300 GBP per person return. Dubrovnik and Split have good connections from UK airports
- Accommodation - 80-150 GBP per night for family apartments in good locations. Dubrovnik is 20-30% more expensive
- Meals out - 60-100 GBP per day for a family of four eating all meals out. Self-catering reduces this significantly
- Car hire - 35-60 GBP per day including insurance. Essential for exploring beyond major cities
- Activities - Plitvice entry 40 EUR per adult in peak season, 30 EUR off-peak. Children discounted
Budget Tip
Visit Konzum or Lidl supermarkets for picnic supplies and breakfast items. Croatian bread, cheese, and cured meats are excellent and a fraction of restaurant prices.
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