It is imperative to know when to visit a destination so that you can plan everything accordingly. If you are planning to visit Croatia, there are certainly some great times of the year when you can plan your trip.
If you are after some sun and seaside fun, then planning a trip in summers is perfect. You might also want to explore the national parks of Croatia take advantage of the plethora of outdoor activities on offer.
In any case, the weather will play a key role in determining the best time of year to visit Croatia.
Climate of Croatia
Croatia’s climate is Mediterranean on the coast, where you can experience warm summers and mild winters. However, when you head inland the climate changes.
The winters can be brutally cold and summers are definitely hotter too.
Croatia in Summer
Late May and June
Early summer months are great if you want to visit when the weather is pleasant but sunny at the same time. Balmy temperatures between 23-27 degrees make it ideal sunbathing weather on the Adriatic coast.
The best part of visiting during this season is that the crowds are away. Plus, the sea is also warm enough to swim.
It is definitely a win-win situation if you want to visit during late May and June. When you are satisfied with all the beach activities, you can definitely head sightseeing.
This can be a great time for sightseeing as well since the temperatures are pleasant, plus fewer people means that you will be able to see the sights calmly.
July and August
This is the peak season in Croatia when all the crowds are here to enjoy the warm summers and the beaches. The beaches are busy, cafes are lively and sightseeing areas are also choc-a-bloc with people.
Many locals head to the coast at this time and social and cultural activity in the inland cities tends to dry up as a result. The daytime temperatures can be really hot both on coast and inland.
Most tourists end up on the beaches of Hvar Island, Split, Korčula Island, and Dubrovnik.
If you want to go island hopping, be aware that the ques might be really long, so arrive early. Also, the accommodation in Croatia fills up very fast during this time, so plan well in advance. If you want some peace, head inland to the national parks such as Plitvice Lakes, Risnjak and Northern Velebit.
July is also a great time for music festivals.
Music festivals in Croatia
- Hideout: Enjoy cutting-edge electronic music on Pag island’s Zrće beach in June.
- Fresh Island Festival: A week-long bash of Hip hop, Afrobeats, R&B and more at Zrće Beach, on the island of Pag in July.
- InMusic: Three days of rock and indie music in the capital, Zagreb in June
- Ultra Europe: This electronic festival invites all the leading DJ’s and musicians and it takes place in the Park Mladeži stadium in Split in July.
- SuperUho: Alternative music and indie-rock at an idyllic shore-side site just outside Primošten which takes place in August.
Croatia in Autumn
September to November
September can be a great time to visit Croatia as the weather is warm enough to lounge around on the beaches. But, the end of September marks the end of the season and many islands close their bars and restaurants during this time.
It is much quieter throughout the country during these months and can be a good time to travel if you want to avoid the crowds. Travel inland Istria and national park areas, like the Plitvice Lakes and the River Krka.
The coast becomes quiet during October and many hotels and tourist attractions may well shut up shop for the winter. You can enjoy activities such as trekking and mountain biking during this time of the year.
It is also rainy in October, so carry your clothes accordingly. Plus, the temperatures dip noticeably, so do keep a jacket or two for evenings.
Croatia in Winter
November to February
If you want to travel cheap in Croatia, this is the time to visit. Hotel and accommodation are more than 50% cheaper during this time, as it is very cold this time of the year.
During this time, you can have a good time sightseeing in historic centres such as Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik.
Snow is common in inland and transport in highland areas is frequently disrupted as a result. Christmas in Zagreb can be an interesting experience.
The lovely Christmas market has been enticing more and more tourists from all over the world. It’s a magical scene of cosy candlelight, alongside traditional cuisine and mulled wine and outdoor concerts.
Croatia in Spring
March to Mid-May
This is the time when the temperatures start rising finally and spring is well on its way. You can expect warm, dry weather during this time of the year.
You can spend this time cycling, hiking, or touring the cultural sights. Easter can also be fun to experience during this time of the year. You might be able to spot religious processions in full swing on the islands of Hvar, Korčula, and in many other parts of Croatia.
April is also a good time to bargain, get cheap accommodation and enjoy the peace before tourists start visiting again in full swing.
Conclusion
Depending on your need and want, Croatia can be inviting any time of the year. Summers can be sunny and warm, while winters can be cold but devoid of any tourists. Choose wisely.