Outside the height of peak season, September makes for a great time to visit Croatia. The crowds have lessened somewhat, the weather is not blazingly hot, and the Adriatic is still warm enough to go swimming. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do._x000D_
_x000D_
## Weather in Croatia During September
The Croatian coast, stretching magnificently from **Zadar** in the north all the way down to the historical and visually stunning city of **Dubrovnik** in the south, offers a truly delightful climate during the month of September. Imagine yourself basking in daily average temperatures of a comfortable 77°F (25°C), perfect for exploring ancient ruins, relaxing on pristine beaches, or enjoying a leisurely meal at a seaside restaurant. As the sun begins to set, painting the sky with vibrant hues, the temperatures gently dip to the low to mid-60s (16°C-19°C), creating the ideal conditions for a romantic evening stroll or a cozy dinner under the stars. The inviting embrace of the **Adriatic** Sea beckons with its pleasant water temperature of 73°F (23°C), offering a refreshing escape from the warm days. September boasts a high UV index, so be sure to pack your sunscreen, but also gifts visitors with approximately 12 hours of daylight, allowing ample time to explore all that Croatia has to offer. Rainfall is minimal, with only a couple of inches expected across approximately seven days of the month, making September a truly exceptional time to experience the beauty and charm of this remarkable country. Therefore, be sure to pack your summer essentials – swimwear, light clothing, and comfortable walking shoes – and remember to bring some light layers for the cooler evenings, ensuring you are prepared for anything this beautiful destination may throw your way.
## Crowds and Costs in September
One of the many advantages of visiting Croatia in September is the welcome decrease in crowds. The bustling peak season has subsided, allowing for a more relaxed and intimate experience. You’ll find that you have a little more breathing room along the stunning coastline and on the picturesque beaches, as the majority of visitors have returned home, and local tourists have similarly journeyed back from their coastal retreats. This quieter atmosphere translates into a more enjoyable experience at popular attractions, allowing you to fully appreciate their beauty and historical significance without the hustle and bustle of the high season. Moreover, flights and tourist attractions typically become more affordable than during the peak months of summer, presenting an opportunity to save money while still enjoying all that Croatia has to offer. Hotel prices along the coast begin their gradual decline, a trend that continues for approximately six months, making September an excellent time to find great deals on accommodation. Despite the decrease in prices, the comprehensive ferry network continues to operate on its summer schedule, providing easy access to the numerous islands and coastal towns, further enhancing the allure of traveling to Croatia in September and opening up a plethora of possibilities for exploration and adventure.
## Destinations to Explore in September
The Croatian landscape presents a diverse range of destinations to discover, each offering unique charm and character. The weather becomes more agreeable as the stifling heat of summer dissipates, and the crowds begin to thin, particularly as the month progresses, making September an ideal time to visit popular attractions that might otherwise be challenging to navigate due to large crowds. A classic itinerary option involves starting or concluding your journey in **Zagreb**, the vibrant capital city of Croatia, where you can immerse yourself in its rich culture, explore its historical landmarks, and enjoy its thriving culinary scene. From Zagreb, you can venture into the enchanting **Istrian Peninsula**, a region known for its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval hilltop towns. Be sure to explore the enchanting towns of **Motovun** or **Grožnjan**, each offering stunning views and a glimpse into Croatia’s rich history. As you make your way to the Istrian coast, you can explore the beautiful coastal towns of **Poreč**, **Rovinj**, **Pula**, and **Opatija**, each offering its own unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Continuing southward, you’ll reach the breathtaking **Dalmatian Coast**, a region renowned for its dramatic coastline, crystal-clear waters, and charming coastal towns. Make sure to stop at popular points of interest, such as **Zadar**, a city known for its unique sea organ and vibrant nightlife; **Plitvice Lakes National Park**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site boasting stunning waterfalls and turquoise lakes; and the historic port city of **Split**, a vibrant hub with a rich Roman history and a bustling waterfront. Split serves as an excellent base for exploring the nearby islands, including **Brač**, famous for its iconic Zlatni Rat beach; **Šolta**, a tranquil island known for its olive groves and vineyards; and **Hvar**, a glamorous island offering a mix of history, nightlife, and natural beauty. From Split, continue your journey southeast along the coast, culminating your tour in the captivating “Pearl of the Adriatic,” **Dubrovnik**.
While based in Dubrovnik, consider delving deeper into the surrounding area. To the southeast lies **Cavtat** and the renowned **Konavle** wine region, offering opportunities to sample local wines and experience the region’s rich viticultural heritage. Offshore, you’ll find the mostly car-free **Elafiti Islands**, including Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan, providing a tranquil escape from the mainland. A scenic drive northwest will take you through the stunning **Pelješac Peninsula**, known for its picturesque vineyards and delicious seafood.
## Activities and Experiences in September
September presents a plethora of opportunities for exploration and adventure in Croatia, with endless options to take advantage of. From engaging in outdoor activities to attending cultural events and festivals, there is something to appeal to every traveler’s interests. Dedicate time to exploring cities such as Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, and Zagreb, immersing yourself in Croatia’s finest museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Carve out time to explore the islands, known for their pristine beaches and opportunities for water sports like sailing, kayaking, swimming, and snorkeling. Indulge in relaxation on the renowned **Zlatni Rat** beach on Brač Island, or embark on a sailing excursion from Split to Šolta Island, where you can swim in pristine coves. For a more adventurous experience, explore the **Pakleni Islands** by kayak. If you seek a change of pace, lace up your hiking boots and embark on a day hike along Hvar’s rocky paths, traversing vineyards and olive groves as you uncover abandoned villages and secluded bays. For those seeking faster exploration, consider renting a scooter to cover more ground.
Wine enthusiasts will find great pleasure in sampling the diverse wines native to Croatia. Join a cycling wine tour to explore Korčula’s **Lumbarda** region, where you can savor Grk, a distinctive white varietal indigenous to Korčula. Alternatively, sample Bogdanuša, another exceptional white wine found exclusively on Hvar. Consider renting a car and embarking on a tour of the Pelješac Peninsula, combining wine tastings with delectable freshly caught seafood. Alternatively, explore the **Konavle** wine country and sample wines such as Plavac Mali, a red wine cultivated exclusively in South Dalmatia.
To burn off some of the calories from indulging in wine, change gears and venture to the small village of **Zadvarje** for an exhilarating canyoning experience in the **Cetina River**, culminating in a thrilling three-hour zipline excursion above the river canyon in **Omiš**. Or, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Croatia’s most renowned national parks, Krka and Plitvice Lakes. Seek respite from the sun in the shade of the abundant trees, or take a refreshing dip in Krka’s **Skadrinski Buk**. Each park offers breathtaking vistas and provides an ideal setting for leisurely walks amidst forests, lakes, and waterfalls.
## September Events and Festivals
**Varaždin Baroque Evenings**, **Varaždin**: This esteemed festival, held annually for two weeks in September, showcases local and international orchestras performing in the cathedral, churches, and theaters throughout the charming town.
**Labin Art Republika**, **Labin**: Spanning from June to September, this vibrant event transforms the town with captivating street performances, as studios open their doors to the public. In addition, every Tuesday at 9:30 pm, complimentary guided tours depart from the tourist office in the old town, recounting fascinating legends and myths of the area.
**Festival of Subotina**, **Buzet**: The quaint town of Buzet, situated near the Slovenian border, hosts a series of truffle-related events, with the highlight occurring on the second Saturday in September, marking the commencement of the white-truffle season.
**Outlook Festival**, **Štinjan**: For five days in early September, Europe’s largest bass and dubstep festival descends upon Punta Christo Fort in Štinjan, located just outside of Pula, with the opening event held within the magnificent Roman Amphitheater.
**Supetar Summer**, **Brač**: Supetar on Brač Island hosts a two-month-long celebration of folk music, klapa singing, dance, and classical concerts, complemented by exhibitions, talks, and outdoor cinema screenings.
**Puppet International Festival**, **Zagreb**: Since its inception in 1968, Zagreb has been the proud host of this distinguished festival, showcasing the art of puppetry through workshops on puppet making and captivating exhibits.
**Samobor Music Festival**, **Samobor**: As one of the most prestigious classical music festivals in Croatia, this nine-day event features numerous performances held within the town’s two central churches.
**Truffle Days**, **Livade**: This multi-day festival, spanning from September to November, coincides with the peak season for white truffles and takes place annually in Livade, the heart of the Istrian truffle region. Delight in all things truffle, including captivating demonstrations showcasing specially trained dogs in their search for these culinary treasures.
**Trash Film Festival**, **Varaždin**: This campy festival in Varaždin celebrates the world of low-budget action movies, encompassing genres from martial arts to science fiction to horror.
***
The word count is now 1342.
B-615