So, is there a best time to visit Croatia?
The opinion is divided on this topic. Despite its small size and unassuming nature, there is a LOT to do in the country of Croatia.
Maybe you want to enjoy one of the many beautiful beaches, islands, and coastlines.
Perhaps you are interested in hiking along and enjoying some of the different national parks.
Maybe you're an outdoors person and want to engage in some sailing, mountain climbing, or sea kayaking.
There are just so many activities that are available to you in the country - and that's just in the summer!
Yes, whether it's enjoying the sunny beaches, tasting some of the delicious cheeses, going for a walk through some of the museums, or a bit of everything, knowing when events are open and available is really important and can ensure that you can do what you love to do.
What Season is the Best Time to Go?
Throughout the year, there are several different things you can take part in that are based on the season.
For example, some people visiting in the spring will find very different activities offered as a person visiting in the fall.
While each season comes with plenty of its benefits, if you are someone that wants to enjoy a little of everything, the best time is in the early or late part of the summer months.
Not only will you avoid much of the hotter points of the season, but you'll have the largest variety of things available.
And even better, you'll be some of the first in line for much of it!
The Weather in Croatia
The Croatian islands and coasts are different from the inland areas. During the mid-summer season, inland Croatia is known for its sweltering heat.
Conversely, the area is also known for being freezing cold during the winter months.
On the other hand, the islands and coasts run very differently. Rather than deal with the same strong contrasting temperatures throughout the year, the islands are much milder, sharing a much more Mediterranean climate overall.
As a result, you can expect summers to be somewhat warmer than normal while their winters are somewhat cooler than normal.
It is because of these two very different experiences that you should be aware of the country's weather patterns and when will be the most convenient time for you.
The Best Time to Visit in Spring: March - mid-May
March is officially the beginning of spring. By this point, the country is likely to be fairly warm and dry.
This is especially true during mid-March, where it is the best time to enjoy hiking, cycling, and overall sightseeing in the country.
This is also when many of the locals are likely to feel the most welcoming of foreigner visitors - before the onset of tourist season begins.
Regarded as a fairly religious country, the springtime months are also the time of Easter Sunday.
This is a very important time in Croatia and will lead to numerous festival events and religious processions.
These are most prevalent on the different islands, including Hvar and Korula, just to name a few.
Throughout April, Zagreb will host the Music Biennale festival. This happens every odd year (2021, 2023, 2025, etc.) and will show off different pieces of contemporary and classical music that are being played by some of the foremost international artists.
Finally, going out during April is likely to result in cheaper flight options as well as a chance to enjoy a brief respite from your hectic work life.
The Best Time to Visit in Summer
Visiting in late May & June
Starting the summer off, coming in late May and beginning of June is the perfect time to enjoy some sunbathing and relaxing along Croatia's many sandy beaches.
As this is just before the full draw of tourists, coming at this time allows you to skip most of the crowd.
This means you can swim the Dalmatian Sea and enjoy more sightseeing before getting pushed out - either from the heat or the large crowds.
Ultimately, if you're ever looking for the best time to do the most things, the time between May and June is the most ideal time to go.
Visiting in July & August
Considered the peak season for Croats and tourists alike, the Croatian islands and beaches are filled with people and are the perfect place for fun sandy events.
You'll probably spend so much time enjoying the warm beaches and island-hopping, you may not have time to enjoy much of the inland area.
Visiting for the Music Festivals in Novalja
During the summer, much of the the Croatia music festivals comes alive and heads out to the coastal areas, especially here in Novalja.
Zrće beach is home to some of the most famous nightclubs in the world where you'll be able to enjoy outdoor festivals and a season-long programme of world class club events.
Croatia is often regarded as one of the most diverse music festival locations throughout all of Europe!
These start in late May, early June and operate throughout the summer months. To learn more, check our summer festivals section.
The Best Time to Visit in Autumn: September - November
Arguably the best month throughout the entire year weather-wise, September in Croatia offers just enough of the summer heat that you can still enjoy the beaches while being close enough to fall that most of the summer tourists have left.
As autumn rolls in further, you can expect the cities and towns to become quieter, with many islands closing down their restaurants and bars to prepare for the winter.
If you are someone that enjoys the national parks - like River Krka or Plitvice Lakes - now is the best time. You'll see some incredible autumn sights and beautifully colored foliage.
By October, much of the inland areas will begin closing for the winter. Meanwhile, it will still be warm enough along the coastal islands to enjoy some watersports.
Outside of that, however, expect a considerable amount of tourist attractions closed for the year until the start of the new season.
If you are interested in still enjoying the country, consider mountain biking as well as nature camping and trekking.
Just be sure to carry some weather gear, as this time of the year can often be regarded as the rainier months, with noticeable dips in temperature.
The Best Time to Visit in Winter: November - February
Because of Croatia's winters, some great places to visit during this time can include some areas like Split, Dubrovnik, or Zadar, where you can enjoy sightseeing and viewing many historic areas.
If you were to ask the more frugal tourist, they'll tell you that visiting the country in the winter times is the best time to go.
Some of the reasons include reduced hotel costs (often over 50% reduction in prices), a different variety of available fish, some truly breathtaking sights - thanks to the wintery snow.
This makes it great for sightseeing and photo tours.
While once a quiet event, Christmas in Croatia has become an exciting time. In Zagreb, there is a beautiful Christmas market.
There, you can try delicious foods, enjoy some outdoor concerts, or just sit back and take in the cozy candlelight ambiance of the city overall.
At the tail end of Dubrovnik, during the first week in February, the city engages in the Feast of St. Blaise festival.
There, you'll enjoy many concerts, pageants, and performances by the native people.
Final Thoughts: Best Time of Year to Visit Croatia?
Without a doubt, while most people may see Croatia as a simple country with little going for it, in reality, it is much more exciting and diverse.
And, though there will always be something for you to enjoy while in the country, determining what you want to do and making a point of going during those specific times can make your trip all the more magical and exciting.