Voted No.1 by Travelers Worldwide! Based on the votes of 1.2 million travelers from around the world—mainly from the UK (28.2%), USA (19,4%), Austria (9,2%), Germany, Ireland, France, and the Netherlands—Croatia has been awarded the prestigious title of Best Country to Visit in Europe 2025.

Outranking travel giants like Spain, Greece, Italy, and France, Croatia has captured the hearts of travelers with its unparalleled blend of breathtaking nature, vibrant cultural scene, historical treasures, world-class gastronomy, and luxurious yet authentic experiences.

So, why is Croatia THE place to visit in 2025? Discover the 20 ultimate reasons that make Croatia the best European getaway of the year!

Book your flights, your accommodation as well as your tours and activities and discover the Best Country to visit in Europe! 

1. Relax on Croatia's Stunning Beaches

Brac Island

With over 1,000 islands, Croatia offers some of the best beaches in Europe.

From the famous Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) Beach on Brac Island to the crystal-clear waters of Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok, Croatia is a beach lover’s paradise.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Split Airport (SPU), then take a ferry to Brac Island (50 minutes).

 Where to stay: Bluesun Hotel Elaphusa, Brac

2. Get the Celebrity Treatment in Dubrovnik

Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", Dubrovnik attracts A-list celebrities like Beyoncé, Harrison Ford, and even King Charles III.

Walk the UNESCO-listed city walls, enjoy a Game of Thrones tour, and dine at Michelin-starred Restaurant 360° overlooking the Adriatic.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), then take a 30-minute taxi or shuttle to the Old Town.

 Where to stay: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik, a luxury 5-star seaside retreat

3. Experience the Magic of the Zagreb Festival of Lights

Each spring, Zagreb transforms into a breathtaking open-air gallery, hosting one of Europe’s most dazzling festivals. With over 20 spectacular light installations, the city's historic Upper Town and lively Lower Town are illuminated by projection mapping, interactive animations, and artistic displays from renowned European artists.

Blending art, design, architecture, and entertainment, this multisensory experience celebrates the renewal of spring and showcases Zagreb’s vibrant cultural scene.

As Croatia is crowned the Best Country to Visit in Europe 2025, this is the perfect time to explore the capital and its unique events—starting with the Zagreb Festival of Lights!

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb (ZAG), just 30 minutes from the city center.

 Where to stay:  Hotel Capital, a 4-star boutique hotel.

4. Escape the Crowds and Discover Rab Island

Looking for hidden gems away from mass tourism? Rab Island is one of Croatia’s most peaceful islands, known for its sandy beaches, medieval town, and laid-back atmosphere.

Perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy authentic Croatia.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Rijeka Airport (RJK), then take a ferry from Stinica (20 minutes).

 Where to stay: Arbiana Heritage Hotel, Rab, a 4-star boutique hotel.

5. Swim in Brela's Crystal Clear Waters

Brela

Brela Beach, located on the Makarska Riviera, has been ranked among Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

With its turquoise waters, pine-covered cliffs, and stunning views of Biokovo Mountain, Brela is a picture-perfect summer escape.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Split Airport (SPU), then drive 1 hour south to Brela.

 Where to stay: Bluesun Hotel Berulia, a 5-star beachfront hotel

6. Be Pampered Like a Star During a Wellness Stay in Opatija

Once the wellness retreat of European aristocracy, Opatija has been crowned Best Wellness Destination in Europe.

Enjoy luxury spa treatments, thermal pools, and wellness retreats in March, when the city transforms into the ultimate self-care destination.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Rijeka Airport (RJK), then drive 45 minutes to Opatija.

 Where to stay: Hotel Ambassador - Liburnia, a 5-star wellness retreat.

7. Explore Pula's UNESCO Heritage with your Family

Pula is home to one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world.

Families can explore UNESCO-listed sites, watch gladiator battles, and visit Brijuni National Park.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Pula Airport 15 min to city center. 

 Where to stay: Park Plaza Histria Pula. Only steps away from the beach.

8. Celebrate One of Europe’s Most Open-Minded City – Rijeka

Rijeka, known for its progressive and artistic spirit, is home to one of Europe’s biggest Carnival celebrations.

Experience the colorful parades, masquerade balls, and non-stop festivities in one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Europe.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Rijeka Airport (RJK), 20 minutes from the city center.

 Where to stay: Hilton Rijeka Costabella Beach Resort & Spa. Boasting outdoor and indoor heated swimming pools.

9. Discover The Exclusive Bay of Cavtat

Awarded Most Beautiful Bay in Europe and recognized by the EU Commission for its commitment to green luxury, Cavtat is a secluded paradise offering luxury stays, yacht-filled marinas, and an eco-conscious lifestyle.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Dubrovnik Airport and drive 15 min.

 Where to stay: Hotel Croatia Cavtat, a 5-star luxury resort. 

10. Explore Croatia's Natural Wonders - Plitvice Lakes

This UNESCO-listed wonderland features turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. A must-visit for nature lovers!

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb Airport and drive 2 hours.

 Where to stay: Hotel Jezero. Situated in the very heart of Plitvice Lakes National Park.

11. Taste the Flavors of Croatia in Istria

Motovun - Istria

Istria is Croatia’s culinary capital, home to truffle-hunting experiences, award-winning wines, and world-famous olive oil.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Pula Airport and drive 40 min to Rovinj. 

 Where to stay: Boutique Hotel Kastel. Featuring an outdoor Swimming Pool and an à-la-carte restaurant.

12. Declare Your Love on Croatia's Heart-Shaped Island

Zadar

Galešnjak Island, known as the Island of Love, is one of the few naturally heart-shaped islands in the world. A popular destination for romantic boat tours, proposals, and drone photography, this secluded paradise is a dream escape for couples.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zadar Airport, Take a boat tour from Zadar or Biograd na Moru. 

 Where to stay: Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera, Zadar, a luxurious 5-star resort

13. Sail the Most Spectacular Nautical Routes

Kornati Archipelago

Croatia’s Kornati Islands are a sailor’s paradise, featuring 140 unspoiled islands with crystal-clear waters and secluded bays. Other fantastic sailing spots include Hvar, Vis, and Elaphiti Islands, perfect for an island-hopping adventure.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zadar or Split Airport. Charter a yacht from Zadar, Šibenik, or Split. 

 Where to stay: D-Resort Šibenik, a 5-star marina hotel

14. Visit the World's Smallest Cathedral

Nin

Located in Nin, this 9th-century tiny church is considered the smallest cathedral in the world. Nin is also known for its salt fields, healing mud, and charming old town.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zadar Airport and drive 30 minutes. 

 Where to stay: Zaton Holiday Resort, Nin, a 4-star seaside resort.

15. Discover one of Europe's Best Food Markets - Dolac Market

Zagreb

Nicknamed the "Belly of Zagreb", Dolac Market is a must-visit for food lovers, offering fresh local produce, homemade cheeses, truffles, and organic delicacies.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb and drive 30 min.

 Where to stay: Canopy by Hilton Zagreb, a 4-star boutique hotel,

16. Experience Active Holidays 

Rafting in Omis

Croatia isn’t just about relaxation! Try rafting on the Cetina River, hiking in Paklenica National Park, or cycling along the Dalmatian Coast.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Split Airport and drive 45 min.

 Where to stay: Hotel Plaža Omiš, a beachfront 4-star hotel.

17. Visit the World's Most Heartbreaking Museum

Museum of Broken Relationships - Zagreb

Located in Zagreb, this one-of-a-kind museum showcases stories of lost love through fascinating personal objects.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb and drive 30 min.

 Where to stay: Hotel Dubrovnik, Zagreb, a 4-star hotel in the city centre.

18. Watch the Most Beautiful Sunset in Europe

Zadar

Even Alfred Hitchcock declared that Zadar’s sunset is the most beautiful in the world. Experience it from the Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installation, where waves create hauntingly beautiful melodies.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zadar Airport (15 min drive).

 Where to stay: Falkensteiner Hotel Adriana, Zadar, a luxury beachfront hotel

19. Explore Croatia's Most Beautiful Coastal Towns

Rovinj & More

Often called "the Croatian St. Tropez," Rovinj is a colorful seaside town perfect for romantic getaways. Other must-visit coastal gems include Trogir, Korčula, and Primosten.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Pula Airport (40 min drive).

 Where to stay: Grand Park Hotel Rovinj, a 5-star luxury hotel.

20. Visit the Most Awarded Christmas Market in Europe

The Advent in Zagreb

Voted Best Christmas Market in Europe three times, Zagreb’s Advent Feast is a magical winter experience with festive lights, live music, Christmas treats, and the most beautiful ice-skating rink in Europe.

 How to get there: Book your flights to Zagreb Airport (ZAG), 30 minutes from the city center.

 Where to stay: Stay at Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre, a stylish 4-star hotel.