With the crystal-clear seas lapping at the Croatian coastline, framed by a vast array of museums, fortresses and incredible countryside, Croatia offers the perfect haven for families travelling with the kids in tow. But why should you travel to Croatia with children for your next family getaway location?
CROATIA WITH CHILDREN: WHY CHOOSE CROATIA?
Croatia along the Adriatic Coast is an absolute paradise, with nature acting as the key theme in every area. Despite this, these areas are often well-equipped for families, with activities and facilities set up to accommodate children of all ages. The beaches are what draw tourists to the country; the sandy beaches are shallow and clear, ideal for splashing about with little ones, while the pebbly coves are great for a swim. Many beaches are framed by woodland, offering up some shade in the summer months for the children to play out of the sun’s heat. Most beaches tend to have nearby cafes for refreshments, as well as accompanying play parks for children; Baška Beach even has a waterpark!
Over a third of Croatia’s land is used as nature parks and national parks, each displaying phenomenal scenery and interesting insights into the past through the remaining Roman ruins. Many of these outstandingly beautiful spots can be found on the surrounding islands, such as Brijuni National Park, each accessible via a quick boat trip from the mainland, making for a great family day out. Croatia is also perfect for families as a number of towns and cities feature pedestrian-only zones, allowing children to sight-see safely!
CROATIA WITH CHILDREN: WHERE TO GO
Croatia offers up so many gorgeous beaches that the obvious destination choices would be along the Dalmatian coast, where many of the major cities and towns in the country can be located. Dubrovnik always ranks highly on the list of top places to visit in Croatia, and it is clear to see why. Holidays can often prove quite stressful, especially when trying to navigate new places with children, yet Dubrovnik can bring some relief. The old town has gone completely car-free, meaning that it is safe to let the little ones run free without the dangers of traffic, making for easier exploration.
There are plenty of beaches here perfect for playing, and many offer water-based activities such as pedal boating, snorkelling and exploring the waves on a water scooter! One of the most exciting sights in Dubrovnik is Fort Lovrijenac, a fort built into the clifftop, offering up incredible panoramic views of the area. The dramatic building certainly sparks the imagination, with the kids bound to play pretend as knights and princesses. The fort, which has been used in the filming of Game of Thrones, also acts as a theatre now, so you can enjoy a performance of a Shakespeare classic as a family in this breath-taking location!
The neighbouring city of Split is also a great choice for families, especially those with an interest in history, as much of the main town is built within the Roman ruins of Diocletian’s Palace. Split is also a great place for nature lovers, with the Marjan Hill Park offering up plenty of walking routes, secret beaches and unparalleled views. If you want to travel Croatia and see various places, there are some great itineraries including one day in Split itinerary.
CROATIA WITH CHILDREN: WHEN TO GO
Like many European countries, July and August see the schools close for the holiday in Croatia, so at this time of the year, there are many child-friendly activities on offer in each town. The city of Šibenik, on the coast, hosts the International Children’s Festival each year, starting on the third Saturday in June and lasting for three weeks. Here craft workshops, film, theatre and parades for children are put on, as well as plenty of music and dance shows!
If you think that the summer months will prove to be too hot or expensive for your family, then May, June, September and October are great too, as the majority of tourist attractions will be open and the weather will be warm but not too intense!
CROATIA WITH CHILDREN: FINDING FOOD
Going abroad can sometimes prove challenging when it comes to finding food that suits your little one’s taste buds or even finding a restaurant that is child-friendly. Luckily in Croatia, the dining experience is fairly relaxed, with children allowed in most places, and with dedicated options on the menus for the kids. Many towns offer dining along the Riva, or promenades, with the seating areas overlooking the outdoor spaces where the children can burn off some energy before the meal!
Down cobbled streets in the old towns, you’ll find some more quaint establishments with home-style comfort foods with a Mediterranean twist. Pizza and pasta are often on the menu, so there’s bound to be something yummy available for even the fussiest eater. Most towns also have markets each morning, selling fresh local produce, perfect for picking up and bringing along with you for a seaside picnic or spot of lunch.
In addition to all of the wonderful opportunities for family days out in the country, there are a number of family-friendly Croatia holiday villas available to choose from to make it your dream getaway! Each villa comes fully equipped with all of your family’s needs, and can include swimming pools, tennis courts and even staff to sort out everything for you!
Are you are planning on making Croatia your next family holiday destination? Have you visited Croatia before?
*Disclosure: This blog post was written by Quality Villas. They have an extensive variety of luxury villas in some of the most stunning holiday destinations in the world, including France, Italy, Morocco and Croatia. From beautiful family pads and secluded country escapes to beach lovers’ villas and wellness abodes, Quality Villas can offer specialized accommodation to suit you and your every need, ensuring that you experience the holiday of a lifetime.
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Thanks for stopping by,
Love you all ❤️
Franca 💋
Margaret GALLAGHER says
Been thinking of visiting fpr a few years – hope to see the splendour soon
amomentwithfranca says
Me too! 🙂
Kerry Kilmister says
I find it so hard travelling with my 3 kiddies. My teenage son is autistic, so he struggles with long journeys
Naomi Blackmore says
Love this, travel is totally possible with kids!
Susie Wilkinson says
Croatia is somewhere I’ve ever thought about visiting, but it looks and sounds lovely!
Suzanne gaulton says
We stopped there on a cruise for one day in a life before children and said how pretty it was and we’d love to go back. I’d never considered it since having the children – but you have made it sound so lovely and child friendly. We’ll definitely consider it now!
amomentwithfranca says
I would really like to go with my girls. It is such a beautiful place to visit! 🙂 x
lauren says
FAB BLOG! THIS MAKES ME DESPERATE TO VISIT. LOVELY PHOTOS
Lydia C. Lee says
Not sure if my comment went in?? Anyway, Aussies are made for sailing in croatia at the moment – that’s my hubby’s next pick…#KCACOLS
amomentwithfranca says
Fantastic! X
Shan says
Dubrovnik is one of my favourite places on earth! We took the kids when they were very small but I can’t wait to return in October. This post has given me such wanderlust! I’m
Aching to get going #KCACOLS
amomentwithfranca says
Beautiful place right! I want to be there too! 🙂 x
Fiona Cambouropoulos says
Croatia is somewhere I’ve never been but you make it sound very family friendly and inviting #KCACOLS
amomentwithfranca says
Yes! A place to put ib your travel bucket list for sure! 🙂 x
Pam Francis Gregory says
Croatia looks wonderful & has been on the bucket list for a while – Hope to get there soon!
Natalie Gough says
Wow! Crotia looks amazing.
Kim Styles says
I have looked at Croatia in the past and it is on my list of places to visit.
Carol Cameleon says
That countryside has me drooling! Those clear waters are so beautiful. I’d love to go there one day. Thanks for hosting #kcacols
Clare says
I’ve not been to that part of Europe and all I ever hear is great reports about how lovely it is so I think it needs to be added to the list! #KCACOLS
Pen says
I have never been to Croatia, but it looks lovely. Imagine the fairy tales and stories that you could tell children when visiting that castle. Pen x #KCACOLS
Becky @ Educating roversi says
My sister and niece are currently in Croatia where they met our brother, his wife and kids who live in New Zealand. They come back to the UK next week and I can’t wait to see them. I never thought of Croatia as a holiday destination until recently and now it’s like everyone is going! #KCACOLS
amomentwithfranca says
Ah that is interesting to hear! Yes it has become very popular lately! X
Lisa Pomerantz says
I had never even considered, but now, I just might!
Tracey Bowden says
I’ve never really considered visiting Croatia before but I think I might have to check it out #kcacols
Sarah | Digital Motherhood says
Croatia isn’t somewhere I’ve ever thought of going on holiday but that sea looks amazing! #KCACOLS
jeremy-thirstydaddy says
Looks great. I’ll admit that Croatia never would have crossed my mind as a potential vacation spot, but I’d love to take some time travelling that countryside #KCACOLS
Sarah | mummykind says
I did Barcelona with the girls and it was enough to put me off travelling with them ever again! Place looks lovely but I don’t think I can face flying with them again haha #kcacols
amomentwithfranca says
Oh no! Lol I actually know what you mean! My girls are now 8 and almost 4 so things are geting much better for us but I think it will be even better when Sienna turns 5 or 6 years old, 🙂 x
Cassie - Gorgeous george's mama says
I’ve heard great things about Croatia but I’m yet to visit myself. You make it sounds like an idyllic place to try as a potential first time travelling abroad with children. I shall definitely bear it in mind.
#KCACOLS
amomentwithfranca says
Yes it is definitely a place to consider for a family holiday! 🙂 x