With a balmy coastline stretching over 4567 mi (7350 km), 1246 islands (including one of the world’s few naturally heart-shaped isles) and an abundance of medieval towns seemingly untouched by time, Croatia turns honeymooners eyes with its tantalising shores, well-preserved history and divine seafood. Here are the best destinations for a honeymoon in Croatia, and the best things to do in each.
## Discovering Romance in Croatia: A Honeymooner’s Paradise
Croatia, with its stunning Adriatic coastline, historic cities, and enchanting natural landscapes, presents an idyllic backdrop for a romantic honeymoon. From the vibrant capital of Zagreb to the sun-kissed islands of Hvar and Dubrovnik, Croatia offers a diverse range of experiences tailored for couples seeking unforgettable moments. Let’s embark on a journey through some of Croatia’s most romantic destinations, each offering unique charm and allure.
**Overview of Romantic Croatian Destinations**
| Destination | Reasons to Visit |
| ————————— | ——————————————————————————————————————————————— |
| Zagreb | Museums brimming with stories, verdant parks perfect for picnics, and historic buildings whispering tales of a bygone era. |
| Plitvice Lakes National Park | Magical lake scenery that seems straight out of a fairytale, invigorating hiking trails through lush forests, tranquil boat trips, and the thrill of wild swimming. |
| Istria | A delectable cuisine that tantalizes the taste buds, charming hill towns with breathtaking views, luxurious coastal resorts, and historic buildings that stand as testaments to time. |
| Lošinj | Rejuvenating spas that offer ultimate relaxation, pristine beaches for sun-drenched days, and a serene atmosphere that fosters intimacy. |
| Galešnjak | Seclusion and tranquility on a heart-shaped island, providing the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. |
| Hvar | A vibrant nightlife scene for those seeking excitement, historic buildings that showcase the island’s rich heritage, and stunning surrounding islands waiting to be explored. |
| Dubrovnik | Magnificent architecture that captivates the eye, inviting beaches perfect for leisurely days, and nearby islands that offer a sense of adventure. |
**Planning Your Croatian Honeymoon Adventure**
Most international flights gracefully touch down and take off from Zagreb, making it a convenient gateway to Croatia. Dubrovnik, nestled in the south, boasts the largest airport in the region with several international connections. Zagreb serves as the ideal launchpad for exploring the wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park, the enchanting region of Istria, and even the serene island of Lošinj. For a romantic getaway to Galešnjak, Turanj on Croatia’s central coast provides the easiest access. The captivating cities of Dubrovnik and Hvar in the south can be effortlessly combined into a memorable itinerary.
**Unveiling Romance in Zagreb: Museums, Parks, and Medieval Towns**
Zagreb, the capital city, exudes a romantic ambiance with its charming blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Imagine wandering through the Upper Town, hand-in-hand, as gas lamps flicker to life, casting a warm glow on the cobbled streets.
Begin your day at **Kava Tava** on Britanski Trg, a local favorite where you can savor delicious breakfasts while perusing their unique paper mats featuring a hand-drawn map highlighting Zagreb’s most romantic kissing spots! Embrace the playful spirit and discover hidden corners perfect for sharing a tender moment.
No honeymoon in Zagreb is complete without a visit to the **Museum of Broken Relationships**. While it may seem unconventional, this touching tribute to love’s complexities offers a poignant reflection on the highs and lows of relationships, fostering a deeper appreciation for your own bond. The museum’s artifacts, photographs, and messages from around the world create a shared experience that is both moving and thought-provoking.
Afterwards, immerse yourselves in the charm of Zagreb’s **Upper Town**, a labyrinth of pretty squares, historic buildings, and winding cobbled streets surrounding the museum. As dusk settles, the Upper Town transforms into a romantic haven, illuminated by the soft glow of gas lamps. For a touch of added charm, ascend to the Upper Town via the historic **funicular**, adding a whimsical touch to your romantic escapade.
Zagreb is also blessed with an abundance of beautiful parks, offering idyllic settings for romantic strolls and intimate moments. Lose yourselves in the tranquility of the **Botanic Gardens** at Trg Marka Marulića, a verdant oasis brimming with diverse plant life. Alternatively, wander through the grand **Zrinjevac Park**, a popular haunt for couples seeking a romantic escape amidst lush greenery and elegant fountains.
For a delightful day trip, venture to the medieval town of **Samobor**, nestled on the edge of the Samoborsko Gorje hills. Renowned for its delectable cream cake and exquisite crystal handicrafts, Samobor exudes a timeless charm that is sure to captivate your hearts.
**A Romantic Interlude at Plitvice Lakes National Park**
No destination in Croatia can rival Plitvice Lakes National Park for its sheer natural beauty and enchanting atmosphere. This breathtaking landscape, composed of 16 gleaming turquoise lakes interconnected by cascading waterfalls, offers an unparalleled setting for a romantic escape. The park’s lush forested hills provide a sense of seclusion and tranquility, allowing you to fully immerse yourselves in the magic of nature.
Embark on a romantic stroll along the park’s well-maintained **hiking trails**, which wind through the surrounding landscapes for durations ranging from three to eight hours. As you traverse the trails, you’ll be mesmerized by the crystal-clear waters, the vibrant flora, and the symphony of sounds created by the cascading waterfalls.
For a truly unforgettable experience, rent a boat and embark on a romantic **row** across one of the serene lakes. Glide across the tranquil waters, hand-in-hand, as you soak in the breathtaking scenery and relish the peace and quiet of this natural sanctuary. Alternatively, opt for a guided **boat trip** and let the experienced captain navigate you through the most picturesque spots in the park.
To fully immerse yourselves in the magic of Plitvice Lakes, consider staying in a cozy **sobe** (B&B) or a luxurious **villa** near the park. This will allow you to experience the lakes after the crowds have departed, revealing a serene and enchanting atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic evening.
While swimming is not permitted in the lakes, a nearby alternative awaits at the **Mrežnica River** waterfalls near Primislje, located approximately 25 miles (40 km) north of the park entrance. Here, you can indulge in a refreshing dip in the cool waters and revel in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
**Indulge in the Delights of Istria: Wine, Truffles, and Coastal Charm**
Nestled on a peninsula in Croatia’s northwest, Istria possesses a unique cultural identity and a wealth of romantic experiences. This enchanting region is renowned for its fertile interior, producing some of Croatia’s finest food and drink, as well as its picturesque hilltop villages that seem to have been plucked from a fairytale. Along the coast, you’ll discover a string of ritzy seaside towns, each boasting its own impressive history, lively nightlife, and delectable seafood.
Venture inland to **Motovun**, an ancient town perched atop a 909-foot (277 m) hill, encircled by medieval walls and surrounded by vineyard-covered slopes and karst forests renowned for their prized truffles. Motovun hosts a popular film festival each summer, but you can indulge in the region’s fantastic wine and truffles year-round.
Along the coast, the charming town of **Rovinj** awaits, with its houses and steep cobbled streets clustered together on a peninsula, crowned by Istria’s largest Baroque church, **St Euphemia’s Church**. Lose yourselves in the romantic atmosphere of **Grisia**, an especially charming and popular street in Rovinj’s historic heart, and savor delicious seafood at one of the town’s many sophisticated restaurants. For a secluded escape, embark on a boat trip to the nearby **islands of the Rovinj Archipelago**, where hidden coves and pristine beaches await.
Another destination you and your partner will want to discover together is **Pula**, where outstanding Roman architecture, including one of the best-preserved Roman **amphitheaters** in the world, awaits your exploration. Wander through the ancient ruins, imagining the gladiatorial contests and public spectacles that once took place within these hallowed walls.
**Pampering and Serenity on the Wellness Island of Lošinj**
If you were to choose just one Croatian island to visit, Lošinj would undoubtedly be a strong contender. This idyllic island has long been a haven for wellness seekers, thanks to its abundance of herbs like rosemary, lavender, and immortelle. These fragrant herbs are harnessed in the island’s rejuvenating spa treatments, such as those offered at **Hotel Aurora** near Mali Lošinj.
Take your loved one to the **Garden of Fine Scents** just outside Mali Lošinj, a comely garden showcasing the island’s diverse array of plants, boasting over 250 native species. Flora and fauna thrive on Lošinj, making it one of the best places for **dolphin-spotting** in Croatia.
Among the island’s many beaches, **Krivica Beach** stands out as a haven for romantic solitude. While it requires a 1.5-hour hike from Veli Lošinj, the indented shores, prettily backed by pine trees, offer a secluded paradise where you can reconnect with your loved one amidst the beauty of nature.
**Finding Love at the Heart of Galešnjak Island**
How could an island naturally shaped like a heart not be included on a list of honeymooning hotspots? Galešnjak remained relatively undiscovered until 2009, when images of its heart-shaped shores on Google Earth propelled it to international fame.
This uninhabited island offers the ultimate escape for couples seeking solitude and tranquility. Simply relax on the pebbly shores, indulge in a romantic **picnic**, or take a refreshing **swim** in the crystal-clear waters. Galešnjak is a popular place for proposals, but that doesn’t diminish its romantic allure for newlyweds seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. The nearest mainland town is Turanj, while Zadar serves as the regional gateway to this heart-shaped paradise.
**Party, Exploration, and Wine on the Island of Hvar**
Hvar is one of Croatia’s most visited islands, renowned for its diverse array of activities and attractions. While it is often associated with its vibrant nightlife and celebrity hotspots, Hvar offers much more than just parties and glitz.
Explore Hvar Town’s historic highlights, including the 13th-century **town walls**, the 16th-century **Španjola Fortress**, and the main **square** with its Renaissance-era **Cathedral**. These architectural gems offer a glimpse into Hvar’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Just a short distance from Hvar Town lies the wooded archipelago of the **Pakleni Islands**, a collection of hidden, low-key beaches with a more relaxed atmosphere than mainland Hvar. **Rent a boat** and explore these secluded havens in privacy, discovering hidden coves and pristine beaches where you can unwind and reconnect with your loved one.
Hvar boasts some of the greatest hours of sunshine in the Mediterranean, making it an ideal destination for wine enthusiasts. Visit one of the island’s flourishing wineries, such as **Tomić Winery**, with its impressive Romanesque tasting rooms. And of course, no trip to Hvar is complete without spending time on one of its beautiful beaches, such as **Dubovica Beach**, where you can soak up the sun and revel in the island’s natural beauty.
**Delightful Dubrovnik and its Idyllic Islands**
In the far south of Croatia lies Dubrovnik, a city that many consider to be the overall highlight of a trip to this captivating country. Simply being in Dubrovnik, wandering cobblestone streets beneath a sea of terracotta rooftops or along the mighty 13th-century city walls, with the glittering blue, island-dotted ocean lapping beneath you, is one of Europe’s finest experiences. Dubrovnik is rightfully known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’.
Due to its popularity, Dubrovnik can become crowded, especially during peak season. For honeymooners seeking a quieter experience, there are several ways to escape the hustle and bustle while still appreciating the beauty of the Old Town. **Park Orsula**, located just 1.75 miles (3 km) outside the Old Town, offers superb views of historic Dubrovnik from relaxed grounds tumbling down the hillside, where a music festival takes place during July and August. Another way to drink in superb views with a touch of peace and quiet alongside is to take the **cable car** up to the top of Srd Hill, with the pretty cityscape and Dubrovnik’s nearby islands sliding into view as you ascend.
Beyond the city walls, a wealth of stunning destinations awaits within an easy day trip from Dubrovnik. Head south to the delightful town of **Catvat**, an equally dashing but far-less crowded version of Dubrovnik, with a **monastery**, the **House of Vlaho Bukovac**, a famous Croatian painter, and an enviable setting backed by rolling pine and cypress forests. Further south again beyond Catvat is the near-deserted beach of **Pasjača**, accessed only by a steep trail down the cliffside and ideal for solitude-seeking spouses.
For an island escape while still based in Dubrovnik, head to **Lokrum**, an idyllic getaway just 15 minutes away by boat. Here, you and your partner can linger in **botanic gardens**, stroll around the **Benedictine Monastery**, and visit **The Dead Sea**, a beautiful saltwater lake popular for scuba diving.
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