August is said to be the hottest month in Croatia, and definitely still high season. Expect crowds in most areas when you go.
However, this breathtaking country’s varied geography and eclectic culture mean there’s plenty to enjoy.
Croatia is definitely more than the ancient coastal city of Dubrovnik or the vibrant museum hub that is Zagreb.
If you’re looking forward to a trip to Croatia in August, plan ahead with the help of this guide.
Know more about the weather, suggestions on things to do and helpful tips to make the most of your vacation.
Contents
What is the weather like in Croatia In August?
Temperature in Croatia in August
Most parts of Croatia have an average temperature of 12 °C to 27 °C during August.
Rain in Croatia in August
Most regions in Croatia usually get 80 mm of rainfall during August.
Wind in Croatia in August
Wind: Croatia in August gets an average wind speed of 7.2 to 7.8 miles per hour.
Sun in Croatia in August
August in Croatia experiences an average of 9 hours of sunshine.
What to pack for Croatia in August
August is the summer season so it is also one of the best times to go to Croatia.
Shorts — bring at least two: one denim and one thick cotton or linen. Goes well with a tank top and chambray shirt, even a scarf. You can wear these while hanging out or strolling around the beach or island hopping.
Tank tops — these could be paired with shorts, skirts or jeans, on its own or underneath a scarf or light jacket. Best for keeping cool during summer. This 4 tank tops pack is a good choice.
Swimsuits— bring two, as there’s plenty of opportunities to go beach hopping during summer in Croatia. Bring one in a plain color and another in cute prints. Check this swimsuit for options.
Cover-ups —- best to get a cover u that can be easily fixed to double as a dress. You can tie it this way and that to make it into a strapless or halter dress worn over your cute swimsuit while you’re on your way to the beach. Check out this kimono cover-up.
Maxi dresses — perfect for strolling around and a great outfit to wear when going to lunch or dinner. Like this Milumia floral maxi dress. This one looks great when taking photos with any of Croatia’s old city or castle in the background.
Chambray shirt — This is a versatile clothing item that looks dressy enough buttoned-up, paired with shorts or jeans. It can also be worn unbuttoned, over a tank top and jeans, giving your simple outfit a cool street vibe. Check out this unisex chambray shirt.
Flip flops — it is not summer unless you’ve walked around in flip flops. Choose one in a bright color to add character to your OOTD. These classic Havaianas won’t disappoint.
Ballet flats — versatile footwear for walking around, that you can wear with jeans and shorts as well as with a skirt. Choose one that’s slip-proof and made with memory foam for comfort and style.
Sandals — get these hiking sandals that are light and slip-proof, that will take you from a walk on the beach or cobblestone streets to an easy hike up a hill or fortress.
Sneakers — bring one in light colors that’ll look great with your shorts and jeans. Try these much raved about Puma sneakers. These are great for walking around the city and exploring Croatia’s best attractions.
Related Read: Packing List For Croatia For All Seasons
Things To Do in Croatia in August
1.Climb the old city wall in Dubrovnik
If you really must visit Dubrovnik during high season, a walk on its old city walls is a must. Avoid the midday crowds and come here early.
This has to be one of the best things to do in Croatia, where you’re literally walking on a massive ancient artifact. You can easily spend a couple of hours here. Look down at cobblestone streets lined with old structures.
Check out maze-like alleys. See the St. Lawrence Fortress or the Lokrum island. Take in as much of Dubrovnik as you can from these ancient walls.
Opening Hours
Summer opening hours
08.00 – 18.30 h (April 1st – May 31st)
08.00 – 19.30 h (June 1st – July 31st)
08.00 – 19.00 h (August 1st – August 31st)
08.00 – 18.30 h (September 1st – September 14th)
08.00 – 18.00 h (September 14th – September 30th)
08.00 – 17.30 h (October 1st – October 31st)
Winter Opening Hours
09.00 – 15.00 h (November 1st – March 31st)
closed on 25th of December (Christmas Day)
Admission Fee
adults – 200 HRK (€27.06)
students – 50 HRK (€6.77)
children and students concession – 50 HRK (€6.77)
children under the age of 5 – free
Contact Information
Address: Poljana Paska Milicevica 20000 Dubrovnik
Email: info@wallsofdubrovnik.com
2. Hire a car and go on a road trip
Croatia is a country blessed with a diverse landscape and an abundance of natural beauty.
Most would tell you not to focus on just one city or popular attractions. There’s so much to see and the best way to truly explore is to do it at your own pace, by car.
If you have a license and insurance, plan ahead and rent a car. Drive from the coastal cities of Dubrovnik to Split.
Explore the inner or northern plains. Stop at national parks or UNESCO World Heritage sites. Driving is simply the best thing to do in Croatia to truly explore it.
3. See the town of Skradin
You may not hear much about the idyllic town of Skradin but it is one of the best places to visit in Croatia.
This is also a great alternative to the surely crowded Dubrovnik or even islands like Brac or Hvar. This coastal town is best known as a pit stop on the way to the glorious Krka National Park, but Skradin has plenty to offer.
Walk along its pedestrian-only downtown situated by the waterfront. Visit shops and restaurants. Try their famous Skradin Risotto and Skradinska Torta.
Hang out at the beach or tour the wineries. There’s just more to Skradin that you simply must discover so make it part of your Croatia itinerary.
4. Visit Krka National Park
Spend a lovely summer day in one of the most beautiful places in Croatia.
Krka National Park is best known for its stunning waterfalls. Pack a camera and a swimsuit.
You simply cannot resist taking photos or enjoying a dip in the crystalline pool in front of a waterfall.
Easily accessible from the coastal town of Split, Krka also boasts of scenic hiking trails.
Be sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes as well because there’s a lot to see and discover in Krka.
Opening Hours
For Skradinski buk and Roški slap
January–February, November -December- 9: 00 am- 4:00 pm
March-9:00 am – 5:00 pm
April- 8:00- 6:00 pm
May, September- 8:00 am-7:00 pm
June- August -8:00 am-8:00 pm
October 1-15 -8:00 am- 6:00 pm
October 16- 31- 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Admission Fee
For Skradinski buk and Roški slap
For full entry to all areas of the park
January- March, November-December
Adults- 30 kn (€4.06)
Children ( 7-18 )- 20 kn (€2.68)
April- May, October
Adults- 100 kn (€13.44)
Children ( 7-18 )- 80 kn (€10.76)
June-July, August and September
Adults- 200 kn (€26.87)
Children ( 7-18 )- 120 kn (€16.13)
Children under the age of 7 – have free entry throughout the year.
Contact Information
Phone: +385 (22) 201 777
Email: info@npk.hr
Address: Trg Ivana Pavla II br.5, 22000 Šibenik, Hrvatska
5. Discover the local craft beer scene in Zagreb
If you’re headed towards the capital city of Zagreb, be sure to check out its local craft beer scene.
Spending a summer evening trying out a variety of beer is o great things to do in Croatia.
Hang out at a beer garden that serves locally brewed beers.
Sample different types if these craft beers and pair them with a veggie burger. That’s got to be a great end to a lovely summer day.
Some of the best places in Zagreb that offer a variety of craft beers are Beertija, Craft Room and Ro & Do.
6. Eat Truffles in Motovun
Croatia is known for a variety of products that are a must-try. There’s olive oil, anything lavender, wine, and truffles.
The best place to try it is in Motovun, a small town in the Istria region. Located on the hillside, Motovun is known as the town of truffles.
Here you can find and sample a variety of truffle products. There’s truffle butter, truffle cheese, truffle oil, truffle pasta — even truffle ice cream!
Sample a few then stock up on these truffle products to bring home. Without a doubt, this has to be one of the best things to do in Croatia.
7. Visit the outdoor markets in Split
There is more to Split than the stunning Diocletian’s Palace and it’s being a ‘Game of Thrones’ filming location.
Split also has a vibrant and flourishing outdoor market scene that you must experience.
These are markets that sell everything from fresh produce to the catch of the day to local delicacies. These markets are among the best places to visit in Croatia.
You can’t pass up this chance of sampling more of the country’s gastronomic delights so be sure to make it part of your trip.
8. Trsteno Arboretum
If you’re in Dubrovnik and wanted to veer away from the crowd and all that exploring, Trsteno Arboretum is a perfect escape.
This exquisite botanical garden is located about 18 kilometers from Dubrovnik. It dates back to the 1400s and one of the best attractions in Croatia.
This place was also featured in ‘Game of Thrones’ so it’s even more popular now. That shouldn’t deter you from visiting though.
This lush, tropical garden is a definite must especially on a hot August day.
Opening Hours
Monday to Sunday – 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Admission Fee
adults – 50 Kuna (€6.77)
children and students – 30 Kuna (€4.06)
Contact Information
Phone: +385 20 323-887
Email: info@tzdubrovnik.hr
Address: Brsalje 5, 20000 Dubrovnik, Hrvatska
Travel Tips for Croatia in August
1. Learn some Croatian words or phrases. A simple “Dobar dan” (Good day!) makes a world of difference.
Don’t be just a tourist who’s just visiting and looking around. It’s great to blend and interact with the locals as well to really experience the country.
2. If you’re going to To Croatia during high season (June to September), be sure to book ahead.
This includes accommodations, certain tours and activities, car rentals and even ferry services if you’re going to an island. These things easily fill up during summer so it’s best to book ahead to avoid any hassle.
3. Have enough cash ready. Some restaurants and most private accommodations in Croatia are cash only.
This is the same local ferry, bus and taxi services so make sure you have enough kuna or euros.
Big hotels and car rentals accept credit cards but there are also ATMs in every town so you can withdraw cash.
4. Do not walk the walls with huge crowds. This is particularly true in old cities like Dubrovnik where the best views are seen from the city walls.
Plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the huge crowd. Avoid going there at midday as you won’t enjoy it as much.
5. Watch where you go topless! Sure, a flawless tan is a perfect souvenir from your summer in Croatia, but don’t just undress in beaches.
Certain parts of Croatia like the south are particularly conservative. The island of Krka is quite religious, as it’s the birthplace of many Croatian bishops.
Be more discreet and research first before taking off your bikini top or the rest of your swimwear.
6. Tipping is not required in Croatia as service charge is normally added on the bill. But even if the service charge is not added, it is not expected to give tips. However, feel free to give tips if you think the service is good. For a complete guide, you can check out this tipping etiquette on Croatia.
