Croatia

Croatia With Kids: A Mom of Five’s Ultimate Family Travel Guide

Croatia is one of my family’s favorite destinations from our years of full-time travel, and after taking five kids along for the adventure, I can confidently say it’s a place that’s as family-friendly as it is stunning. Whether you’re splashing in the turquoise Adriatic, wandering ancient streets, or discovering hidden gems tucked away from the crowds, Croatia is full of surprises that make traveling with kids both easy and unforgettable.

Not only is Croatia safe and fun for families, but it’s also one of the more affordable places to visit in Europe.  We spent about a month in Croatia during our full-time travels and truly loved it.  Croatia has so much to offer adventurous families.

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Why Croatia Is Perfect for Families

Croatians Love Kids

One of the first things I noticed when traveling through Croatia is how welcoming the locals are toward families. From restaurant waiters engaging with my kids to strangers offering warm smiles and helpful travel tips, Croatians naturally love children.  This was one of the reasons we chose to live in Portugal!  I’m all about places that can embrace the chaos of our family of seven.

Croatians typically speak many languages, with the most prominent being Croatian, English, and Italian (due to the proximity to Italy).  Communicating is easy in Croatia.

You’ll find high chairs in restaurants, playgrounds in most cities, and a relaxed attitude that makes traveling with a big family feel effortless.  Strollers might not be usable due to the cobblestones and ancient ruins (some of the best-preserved ruins outside of Italy), so bring a carrier.

We also were able to get an amazing Airbnb for such a great price!  It was one of the more luxurious ones we have stayed in, with a pool (unheated, sadly), tennis court, outdoor eating area, and more.  Our hosts were incredibly kind and often brought us gift baskets and even toys!

Croatia Is Affordable and Easy To Get Around

Compared to other European hotspots, Croatia is a budget-friendly destination, making it easier to stretch our family travel dollars. Accommodations range from cozy seaside apartments to family-friendly resorts with pools.  

Public transport is efficient in the cities as buses connect the cities, but we loved the flexibility of renting a car to explore some lesser-known spots. Our Airbnb was also about an hour from Split, so we did a lot of driving.  Ferries between islands are also an option to get around, and kids love the boat rides! 

Opt for an island hopping tour.  We loved ours!  We were able to visit caves, swim, and visit Hvar, an island you’d need to get a ferry to otherwise.

Croatia Offers a Variety of Activities for All Ages

From toddlers to teens, Croatia offers something for youth of all ages. We visited ancient Roman ruins and palaces, walked the city walls in Dubrovnik, went to museums, strolled incredible national parks like Plitvice and Krka, and even found a mall that offers babysitting.  One of the highlights was truffle hunting in Croatia on our way to Italy.

The beaches and coastlines are stunning in Croatia.  While they are not the sugar-soft sand of our current home in Portugal, the small pebble beaches leave nothing to be desired when it comes to beauty.

Whether it’s historical sites, interactive museums, national parks, or beaches, it’s easy to keep kids engaged without feeling overwhelmed. There are also countless outdoor activities, including biking, kayaking, hiking, and even dolphin-watching tours, making every day an adventure.

The Adriatic Sea Will Stun You

Turquoise waters set against white beaches will leave you in awe.  Croatia is stunning.  Unlike the rough waves of the Atlantic, the Adriatic Sea is calm and perfect for young swimmers. The water was chilly during our September visit, but we still got in.  

Many beaches in Croatia have shallow, crystal-clear waters, which makes it easy for little ones to wade and play safely.

You’ll likely spot some super yachts in these gorgeous waters, like we did!  

Croatia Has Plenty of Outdoor Space

Croatia has a wealth of national parks, nature reserves, and wide-open spaces, allowing kids to run, explore, and play freely. Whether hiking in Plitvice, swimming near Krka waterfalls, or exploring the rolling countryside of Istria, there’s never a shortage of outdoor fun.

Things To Know About Croatia Before Visiting

Eastern Europe is less traveled but has shot up on our list of places to visit in Europe.  Some spots may be a bit rough around the edges, but the scenery is over-the-top pretty, the prices are lower, and the locals are welcoming.  You might even score places that are much less busy, as these spots are not at the same level, tourists-wise, as some of the “heavy hitters” in Europe.

We’ve visited Slovenia, including Lake Bled, and Poland and really loved them.  I desire to visit Eastern Europe more.  From Romanian castles to island resorts in Montenegro, I’ve got many Eastern European countries on my list.  

Croatia may be the most well-known country to visit in Eastern Europe, so it’s a great place to start exploring this part of the world. Following are a few things we learned on our visit.

1. Bosnia border crossing.  Croatia is actually split in one section by Bosnia!  Bosnia goes out to the coast, splitting Croatia.  I’m embarrassed to say I discovered this when I took my oldest daughter on a road trip to Dubrovnik and hit border control.  I’m even more embarrassed to tell you that it was at that moment I realized I’d left our passports back in our Airbnb in Split.  We did have to turn around and make the 3 hour drive again to get our passports.  The moral of the story: Never travel in Europe without passports!  Even campsites require them.
   
   There is a new bridge that has been built since our visit that allows you to bypass this Bosnia border crossing.  However, might as well skip into a new country if you have the time!  We ate dinner there, and it was plenty nice.
   
   
2. Swimming holes in Croatia.  Croatia is known for swimming.  With thousands of little swimming holes and waterfalls, locals hop in all over the place!  Travel with your swim suits in case you also get in the mood for a dip.  Sea anemones can sting, so consider keeping some vinegar in the car.
   
   
3. Beaches in Croatia.  While jaw-dropping in their beauty, most beaches are rocky and hard on the little feet.  It can be uncomfortable to sunbathe on as well. 
   
   
4. Diocletian’s Palace.  Split is famous for this amazing, well-preserved palace.  We loved our tour and learning that the massive tunnels and archways were built with stone and a mixture of urine and egg whites.  Imagine that this has stood the test of time since the Romans!  This spot, like many places in Croatia, will go further with kids if you prep with some history before your visit.

5. Game of Thrones.  If you are a fan of the famous show, you will love Croatia!  Much of the show was filmed here, and the tourist companies are here to capitalize on this.  You can visit the filming locations, stores dedicated to the show, etc.

Best Places To Visit in Croatia With Kids

Dubrovnik 

Dubrovnik is absolutely stunning, but let’s be real—navigating its narrow, stone-paved streets with five kids in tow during peak season can be a challenge. The city can be really busy, and the amazing city wall can be nearly impossible to navigate.  While the city walls and old town are must-sees, my top tip is to explore beyond the crowded areas:

• Lokrum Island – A short ferry ride from Dubrovnik, this island has wild peacocks, shady walking trails, and hidden coves perfect for a quiet afternoon by the sea.
• Sunj Beach on Lopud Island – Unlike Dubrovnik’s pebbly beaches, Sunj Beach has soft sand and shallow waters, perfect for little swimmers.
• Dubrovnik Cable Car at Sunset – Instead of braving midday heat, I’d recommend taking the cable car up to Mount Srđ in the evening, avoiding crowds and enjoying breathtaking views.  If you have older kids, consider hiking up as well.

You’ll want to do the wall at some point, so consider going early or later in the day.  There are ice cream vendors on the wall, and sitting to admire the city or watch those below is enjoyable while you devour your ice cream.

Wander into the narrow city alleys and find a place to eat.  We found a lovely pizza and pasta restaurant that didn’t break the bank.  

If you are driving there, consider staying outside the city center (there won’t be parking, or it will be super expensive) and walking in.

The city is super steep, so bring the walking shoes!  

Split

Split is much more family-friendly than Dubrovnik in terms of space and accessibility. We stayed about an hour outside of Split and would drive in, park on the edges, and walk in.  We did this several times and loved this city!

Our kids loved:

• Marjan Hill – A nature retreat right in the city, great for an easy hike with rewarding views and shady picnic spots.
• Kasjuni Beach – A quieter alternative to Bacvice Beach, with calm waters and space to spread out.
• Diocletian’s Palace Hide-and-Seek – The ancient palace is a giant playground for kids, with tunnels, courtyards, and little alleys to explore.  I loved the tour, of course, but they loved imagining a whole new world.

Walking down by the water is a must.  You can grab some gelato and take in the sunset.

Plitvice Lakes National Park – A Fairy Tale Hike

Even my toddlers were captivated by Plitvice’s cascading waterfalls and bright blue lakes.  This place will be one of the most beautiful things you see in your life.  It feels like waterfalls are coming out of the earth all around you.  

Don’t bring a stroller. Instead, put little ones in the carrier, as the boardwalk has no handrails.  While the main boardwalk trails can be busy, families can escape the crowds by:

• Start early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful beauty before tour groups arrive.  If you, like us, can’t do the early morning, arrive around 3 in the afternoon and enjoy the rest of the day.
• Exploring smaller paths off the main route for hidden waterfall views and quiet picnic spots.  We found a gorgeous cave and climbed in!
• Take the electric boat ride across Kozjak Lake—a welcome break for little legs.

Krka National Park

Another must-visit park, like Plitvice, I termed this park the Garden of Eden.  It’s amazing.  While Skradinski Buk no longer allows swimming (thankfully, we visited before this changed!), you can find some amazing nearby spots where the kids can splash around:

• Roski Slap – A beautiful, less crowded waterfall area where you can still swim.
• Stinice Beach – A great spot for a relaxing swim in clear, calm waters.
• Ethno Village – A fun way for kids to learn about traditional Croatian culture while exploring historic water mills.

Rovinj

Rovinj is colorful, walkable, and packed with kid-friendly activities.  This hidden gem is perfect for families:

• Golden Cape Forest Park – Great for bike rides and easy nature walks.
• Rovinj Aquarium – A small but fascinating spot for younger kids who love marine life.
• Jumping off the Rocks at Monte Beach – My older kids had a blast diving into the Adriatic here!

Hvar Island

This popular island can be accessed by ferry (even car ferry), but we visited it for a few hours on an island hopping tour.  We climbed up to the castle, loved the little tour, ate some ice cream, and looked around the shops.

I found this easier to go for a few hours versus trying to get a car there, but that can be done as well. Reserve the ferry in advance in the summer months.

Istria

The northern part of Croatia appeals to those who want a calmer stay with lovely open spaces.  We enjoyed some truffle hunting with our kids and an amazing lunch.  What a memory!

Other Hidden Gems in Croatia

Beyond the main attractions, we heard about some incredible off-the-beaten-path places to make your Croatia trip extra special:

• Rastoke Village – A “mini Plitvice” where wooden houses sit over waterfalls and kids can safely explore little bridges and streams.
• Barać Caves – A cool underground adventure with stalactites, stalagmites, and even bat colonies!
• Kamenjak Peninsula – A wild, rugged coastline near Pula with hidden beaches, sea caves, and dolphin-spotting opportunities.
• Ranch Deer Valley – Just outside Plitvice, this peaceful sanctuary lets kids get up close to friendly deer.

What Parents Love About Croatia

The Food Is Kid-Friendly

Croatian cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean and Eastern European flavors, which means plenty of pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. My kids especially loved:

• Ćevapi – Grilled mini sausages, perfect for little hands.
• Palačinke – Thin, crepe-like pancakes with Nutella or jam.
• Fresh seafood and homemade bread – A hit with the whole family!

We also ate a lot in our Airbnb in the country.  It was magical to eat outside in the setting sun.  Shopping was easy in the local town.

Croatia Feels Safe

Croatia ranks as a safe country in Europe.  Whether in bustling cities or quiet villages, we always felt comfortable exploring, even after dark.

We even did some tours at night in Split and didn’t feel unsafe.

Croatia Has Plenty of Outdoor Space

Whether it’s hiking, swimming, or just letting the kids run around old town squares, Croatia offers endless opportunities to be outside.

The national parks are a wonderful day trip with lots of exploration.  We even enjoyed the cows wandering in our yard several times!  The neighbor would come in and shoo them away.

Tips for Visiting Croatia With Kids

Visit in the Shoulder Season 

May/June and September/October are the best times to go. This applies to all of Europe, frankly, if not the entire world!  Summer crowds in Europe can be a nightmare (we made this mistake in Greece in August).  Shoulder season might mean you need to miss some school, but you’ll enjoy fewer crowds, lower prices, and still warm enough for beach days.

Bring Water Shoes 

Many Croatian beaches are pebbly, making all the difference for little feet to bring some water shoes.  Our recommendations are here.  I love my Chacos for times like this.

Plan for Some Downtime 

Croatia’s relaxed pace means you don’t have to pack every day with activities. Leave room for lazy afternoons by the sea.  Enjoy your pool at your hotel or rental home, hit the beach for a few hours, or take a hike.

Stay in Family-Friendly Apartments 

We found great places with kitchens and laundry, making long stays easier.  I like to eat in sometimes after a long day of exploring.  The littles can get to bed sooner, and you can relax in your own space.  Dinners in Europe are notoriously long!

Where To Stay in Croatia With Kids

Camping Park Soline (Biograd na Moru) (Budget-Friendly)

A great mix of nature and comfort, this family-friendly campsite offers affordable mobile homes and camping spots near the beach.

• Perks for Kids: Kids’ playground, mini-golf, bike rentals, and easy beach access.
• Bonus: The charming town of Biograd na Moru is nearby for day trips!

Amadria Park Andrija (Šibenik) (Mid-Range)

A top pick for families, this hotel has a fun aquatic theme with colorful decor and a kids’ club.

• Perks for Kids: The Dalmatia Aquapark (right next door!), playgrounds, and entertainment programs.
• Bonus: Close to Krka National Park for an easy day trip to see stunning waterfalls.

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik (Dubrovnik) (Luxury)

A high-end resort with stunning sea views, multiple pools, and spacious family suites.

• Perks for Kids: Kids’ club, sports academy, family pool, and activities tailored to little travelers.
• Bonus: A private beach and easy access to Dubrovnik’s Old Town make it perfect for a mix of relaxation and adventure.

Other Fun Things To Do in Croatia

• Blue Cave & 5 Islands with Vis and Hvar Boat Tour. Discover five stunning islands in the Adriatic Sea on this 10-hour excursion that includes Hvar, Biševo, Vis, Budikovac, and Pakleni. Plus, visit the Blue Cave and appreciate its breathtaking beauty and pristine beaches.
  
• National Park Brijuni Island Visit and Dolphin Cruise. Experience the Brijuni National Park on a day trip from Pula aboard a traditional boat. Look out for dolphins, relish a lunch, and explore Jerolim Island.
  
• Plitvice and Rastoke Guided Day Trip with Ticket. Explore the wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park and marvel at its spectacular waterfalls and 16 remarkable lakes.
  
• City Highlights Electric Tuk-Tuk Tour. Discover Split in a sustainable way with a fully electric tuk-tuk tour.
  
• Mostar and Kravica Waterfall Day Trip. Enjoy the stunning Kravica Waterfalls nestled in the forests of Bosnia-Herzegovina on a complete day trip from Dubrovnik. 

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Croatia is truly a dream destination for families, filled with adventure, beauty, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re wandering through ancient cities, swimming in hidden coves, or hiking through waterfalls, there’s something magical about exploring Croatia with kids. We can’t wait to get back there someday!

Plan your trip to Europe and get some budget-friendly tickets from Booking.com, Skyscanner, Kiwi.com, or Expedia

Find a family-friendly hotel in Europe from Booking.com, Expedia, or Vrbo, (we also love Tripadvisor and Hotels.com)

Discover more of Europe through exciting activities from GetYourGuide, Airbnb Experiences, or Viator

Need to rent a car? Visit Rentalcars.com / EuropCar

Get insured while traveling with World Nomads / SafetyWing

Want to have a photo shoot while traveling? Check out flytographer!

Capture your best travel memories in Europe as we do with a GoPro, Sony camera, or our favorite drones: DJI FPV, Air, and Mini

Check out your travel necessities from a comprehensive list of all the 7Wayfinders Travel Must-Haves. Click Here!

Additional Reading

Visiting Krka National Park in Croatia With Kids

Visiting Plitvice National Park in Croatia With Kids

Truffle Hunting in Croatia With Kids: A Fun and Tasty Family Adventure