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 pick Croatia as your next family getaway location?
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!
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.
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!
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.
Thanks for stopping by,
Love you all ❤️
Franca 💋
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Been thinking of visiting fpr a few years – hope to see the splendour soon
Me too! 🙂
I find it so hard travelling with my 3 kiddies. My teenage son is autistic, so he struggles with long journeys
Love this, travel is totally possible with kids!
Croatia is somewhere I’ve ever thought about visiting, but it looks and sounds lovely!
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!
I would really like to go with my girls. It is such a beautiful place to visit! 🙂 x
FAB BLOG! THIS MAKES ME DESPERATE TO VISIT. LOVELY PHOTOS