Approaching the end of Spring, and with longer daylight, Croatia offers a variety of interesting activities to do and fascinating places to see.
From a Roman-era palace to Venetian town, to a one-of-a-kind musical instrument, there’s never a shortage of reasons to enjoy Croatia in May. If you’re going in May, read on and find out what to expect as well as some helpful travel tips.
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Croatia In May: Weather, Things to See and Travel Tips
What is the weather like in Croatia in May
Temperature in Croatia in May
There’s an average of 11ºC to 21ºC for May in Croatia.
Rain in Croatia in May
There’s an average of 75mm over ten rainy days.
Wind in Croatia in May
4 to 7 miles per hour is the average wind speed in Croatia in May.
Sun in Croatia in May
Expect 15 hours of daylight with eight hours of sunshine each day.
What to pack in Croatia in May
May is the spring season in the country. Spring in Croatia is still colder than usual, bit weather is generally mild and perfect for exploring. The items listed here are ideal for still keeping warm, yet comfortable and ensures easy movement.
V-neck shirts – bring at least 3, in different colors. These are versatile and easy to pair with anything. Like these cotton v-neck shirts. You can wear a jacket over it as well or dress it u with a scarf if the weather gets chilly. You can check these shirts here.
Long-sleeved shirts — always a good idea, these are best for keeping you warm and also goes well with pretty much anything. Wear with leggings or
jeans for a casual walk around town, wear underneath a jacket or just wear a scarf for dining out or date night. Check out these long sleeve shirts.
Knee-length or mid-calf skirts — a great alternative for jeans and leggings that you can wear if you’re museum-hopping in Zagreb or hanging out at the Roman forums in Zadar, or exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split, such as this pretty Zara skirt. It’s comfortable and just a bit dressy, looks great in photos, too!
Black leggings — this item should be in your travel must-haves any season of the year as it’s versatile, easily keeps you warm and goes well with pretty much anything.
Comfort fit jeans — you can easily layer these jeans with leggings if the weather gets too cold, and also ensures easier movements when embarking on long-distance walks or hikes.
Crease proof dress pants (for men) — be sure to bring at least a couple of these as an alternative to jeans. It’s dressy but it’s versatile, something that will take you from day strolls around the city to a fine dinner in the evening. See this stylish wrinkle-resistant pants from Vegorrs.
Sneakers — your go-to footwear that’s comfortable and looks good whether you’re wearing jeans, pants or a skirt. These superstar Adidas sneakers are perfect for any occasion and season.
Related Read: Packing List For Croatia For All Seasons
Things to do in Croatia in May
1. Diocletian’s Palace in Split
The city of Split is centered around an ancient Roman palace complex that’s one of the best attractions in Croatia. The Diocletian’s Palace was ordered to be built by the legendary Roman emperor of the same name, as his retirement place in 305 A.D.
This place is mostly amazingly well preserved and also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is basically Split’s old town, and a car-free one, too.
The palace complex has four gates, charming interiors that include a courtyard, the Cathedral of St. Domnius and its stunning bell- tower, various quaint establishments and even an area where the TV series Game of Thrones was filmed.
2. Rovinj
The picturesque seaside town of Rovinj dates back to the time when Venetians occupied Croatia and has left most of its influences around town. Located in the northwest in the Istrian peninsula, a visit here is one of the best things to do in Croatia.
Stroll the streets of this coastal town and see colorful housewives, the quaint fishing harbor, a church perched on a hilltop as well as the pebbled beaches. A must along the seafront s the Batana Eco-Museum on the seafront, which is all about the local boat called the banana.
3. Brijuni National Park
Brijuni is a wonderful alternative to Plitvice, Krka or even Mijet which are popular among visitors checking out a national park in Croatia. Situated close to the Istrian peninsula, this national park is comprised of nine islands.
The biggest is the lush Veli Brijun, with its scenic landscaped parkland. This is also where Tito, former Yugoslavian leader, used to accommodate dignitaries. His guests gifted him with exotic animals and they’re now housed in a zoo that you can visit on the island.
Wander through the parklands and you’d stumble upon the ruins of a Roman villa. This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Croatia if you want to escape to an island even for a day, away from the hustle of the big cities and busy towns.
Contact Information
Address: Nacionalni Park Brijuni Brijuni, 52100 Pula
Phone: +385 98 286600
Email: brijuni@np-brijuni.hr
4. Korčula Town
Easily accessed from Split via ferry, Korčula Town is located on an island of the same name. Known for its well preserved Venetian architecture from several centuries ago as well as its fascinating history and culture, it is a must when you’re in Croatia.
Bordered by defensive walls and with walkable, car-free alleys, a stroll around Korčula’s old town is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Some of the best attractions in this picturesque town are the Marco Polo House, said to be where the 13th-century explorer used to live, and the moreška sword dance, a traditional dance which is performed to guests of the island especially during summer evenings.
5. Ivan Mestrovic Gallery
Located in Split, the extensive Ivan Mestrovic Gallery is primarily dedicated to the works of Ivan Mestrovic, a Croatian artist and sculptor. His most significant works are part of the collections exhibited in the gallery, which include designs, drawings, furniture, sketches, and sculpture.
Even the gardens and grounds surrounding the gallery are based on Mestrovic’s own plans and design. It is one of Croatia’s best attractions as the art featured is diverse and you’d literally be surrounded by it soon as you enter the grounds.
There’s even an outdoor park that features Mestrovic’s sculptures. If you’re going to visit one gallery in Split, make it this one.
Opening Hours:
2nd May – 30th September
Tuesday – Sunday 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
1st October – 30th April
Tuesday – Saturday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm,
Sunday 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
The Museums of Ivan Meštrović are closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Contact Information:
Address: Šetalište Ivana Meštrovića 46, 21000, Split, Croatia
Phone: +385 (0)21 340 800
Email: mim@mestrovic.h
6. Trsat Castle
Perched on a hill in the town of Trsat in Rijeka, Tsrat Castle is one of Croatia’s attractions that you must visit.
Said to be constructed in the same spot where an ancient Illyrian and Roman fortification used to be, the castle offers stunning views over the Adriatic and the Rjecina River Valley.
The castle, having been built on an old fortress, had to be reconstructed in the 19th century because mausoleums of a military commander and Croatian royalty were buried there. When you visit, you must check out the pretty courtyard where there’s a restaurant that’s popular among visitors.
7. Sea Organ
Another must-see and must experience in Croatia is found on the coast of Zadar. It is called the Sea Organ, created by artist Nikola Basic, who intended for this installation to help revitalize the city after what it went through during the wars.
The Sea Organ is a series of tubes of varying sizes, situated under marble steps. The movement of the waves as it hits the tubes are what makes the enchanting, haunting music that sounds different each time you visit.
Sit by the steps in the early morning or late afternoon and listen. This is one of the most unique things to do in Croatia that you must experience.
8. Explore the charming town of Trogir
A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997, Trogir is best known for the stunning architecture in its historic center that’s a mix of a variety of influences— Greek, Roman, Renaissance, and Gothic.
Situated by the Adriatic coast, you’ll never run out of interesting places to visit and wonderful things to do in Trogir. It’s also teeming with great cafés and restaurants for you to hang out or enjoy some hearty Croatian food.
Practical Tips for Croatia in May
1. First of all, and this is important to be sure you won’t be offending the locals or cause any discomfort when conversing with them — do not call the country Yugoslavia.
The country that we know now as Croatia has struggled against invaders for many years and has only been independent since 1991.
Then there’s the Bosnian war immediately after. Croatia is truly independent now, and they’re proud of it.
2. When in Croatia and you plan to go on road trips or explore various places in the country, be sure to book accommodations in central areas so it’s easier for you to get around.
For example, Split is a good starting point if you plan to visit Brac, Hvar, Korcula or even Dubrovnik. Porec meanwhile is ideal if you’re planning to explore the Istrian peninsula.
3. Tide the bus when in Croatia. They have trains but their routes and stops are limited. The bus system in Croatia is better and highly recommended. Check out the Libertas Dubrovnik buses which travel between Split and Dubrovnik every day.
If you’re going to Istria, there’s Autotrans, which has buses that’ll take you from Zagreb to the ancient Roman city of Pula.
4. Don’t spend more than 3 days in one city. Croatia is small but the sights in each region or city are pretty diverse. Go museum-hopping in Zagreb, beach hopping in Hvar or do the Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik and Split.
5. Croatia’s top exports include olive oil and wine, and they’re pretty good. Buy from the markets or better yet, tour a vineyard or olive orchard for tastings.
For wine, check out Saints Hills in the Peljesac peninsula while for olive oil, there’s Chiavalon Olive Oil Estate in Vodnjan.
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.
