October is the start of the fall season in Croatia but still warm enough to enjoy visits to coastal cities or island towns. This is part of the shoulder season along with September and regarded as among the best months to visit the country.
The weather is fantastic and there are less crowds in the most visited places. Make the most of your trip to Croatia by planning ahead.
Know more about what weather to expect, suggestions on things to do and useful travel tips to fully enjoy your visit to Croatia in October.
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What is the weather like in Croatia In October?
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Temperature in Croatia in October
Average Temperature: For October, Croatia’s average temperature ranges from 14°C to 21°C.
Rain in Croatia in October
Rain: The average rain in Croatia is about 134 over 8 to 11 rainy days during October.
Wind in Croatia in October
Wind: The average October wind speed in Croatia is about 8.5 mph to 9.6 mph.
Sun in Croatia in October
Sun: In October, expect around 10 to 11 hours of sun in Croatia.
What to pack for Croatia in October
Long-sleeved shirt — October is officially the start of Croatia’s colder months, and it’s best to keep warm with a long-sleeved shirt paired with jeans, leggings or a long skirt
Scarf — fleece, knitted or wool, be sure to get one that’s made with warmer, thicker material. Pack one in your day bag so you can easily pull it out when the air gets cold. Warm-up in this fleece scarf.
Warm Parka — have one ready as temperature drops. Choose one that’s longer and fits nicely so they’d look good when paired with your usual jeans and shirt combo or a dress.
Boots — Boots are a must during the cold season. Remember to pick a pair that’s comfortable, light, slip and waterproof so you can wear it anywhere, even though unpredictable weather.
Knit hat — wear it to keep hair away from tour face, and to stay warm especially when strolling around town in the afternoon or evening. Get this knit hat from Jeff & Amy.
Wool socks — be sure you have at least a pair as the night gets colder. Wool socks easily keep you warm and they’re quite comfortable to wear, too. Stay warm in these wool socks.
Check out our packing list for Croatia for all seasons.
Things to do in Croatia in October
1.Mljet National Park
Croatia is a country rich in breathtaking natural sceneries. A lot of these nature’s wonders are part of their many national parks.
When in Croatia, a visit to any of these parks is a must. One of the best places to visit is the stunning Mljet National Park, which can be reached by ferry or catamaran from Dubrovnik.
Located on an island of the same name, this national park is a haven for nature lovers. It is mostly covered by woodland, has two natural saltwater lakes and an islet within.
This islet has a 12th-century Benedictine monastery that’s accessible via taxi boat.
Mljet is filled with scenic hiking trails that run throughout the park. There’s a trail than runs around the lakes perfect for a walk or cycling. You may also rent a kayak to explore the lakes.
Check out these national parks in Croatia.
Opening Hours
High Season: Every day from 8 am to 8 pm
Low Season: Every day from 9 am to 5 pm
Admission Fee
Adults – low season 70 kuna (€9.41), high season 12 kuna
Children and students – low season 50 Kuna (€6.72), high season 70 Kuna (€6.72)
Children under age 7 – free entrance
Contact Information
Address: Pristanište 2, 20226 Goveđari – Mljet, Hrvatska
Phone: +385 20 744 041 or +385 20 744 058
Email: np-mljet@np-mljet.hr
2. Zadar’s Romanesque Churches
A lovely alternative to the bigger and crowded Croatian cities is the scenic Zadar.
Explore its old town that’s actually a small peninsula that juts out into the Dalmatian coast. It’s a picturesque walkable area that’s also car-free.
Zadar is known as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Croatia, dating as far back as the Stone Age.
Its long history is evident through the many structures that were mostly built during Roman times. A lot of these are churches, all beautifully preserved and filled with impressive religious art.
One of the churches you can visit are the 9th-century pre-Romanesque Church of St. Donatus, known for its great acoustics. There’s also the 11th-century Church of St. Mary; and the Cathedral of Anastasia from the 12th century.
Check out these best things to do in Zadar, Croatia.
3. Rovinj
Take a trip back to the Venetian era when you visit the picturesque seaside town of Rovinj.
This town in Northwest Croatia is known for its postcard-pretty harbor, pastel-colored houses and a church perched on a hill. It’s situated by the coast so you can stroll along the pebbly beaches, too.
A must visit in Rovinj is the fascinating Batana Eco-Museum, located on the seafront. This place features exhibits about the batana, a type of wooden boat used by local fishermen.
One thing unique about Rovinj is that the locals speak an interesting dialect that’s a mix of Croatian and Italian.
As an emerging tourist destination, Rovinj has plenty of good hotels, top-rated seafood restaurants and art galleries that showcase local life and culture.
If you’re looking for an alternative to the more touristy areas, Rovinj is among the best places to visit in Croatia.
Check out these best things to do in Rovinj, Croatia.
4. Zagreb’s Gornji Grad
The Croatian capital of Zagreb is known mostly for its vibrant coffee culture and as the city of many museums.
If you’re headed this way, be sure to check out the city’s Gornji Grad or Upper Town district as well. The area is home to impressive medieval architecture, which includes the stunning cathedral.
It is a popular landmark with a neo-Gothic façade, twin steeples, and a great collection of religious art and artifacts.
There’s also the Croatian Parliament, the Church of St. Mark and the 13th-century Tower of Lotrscak. You can even climb Lotrscak to enjoy panoramic views over this gorgeous city.
Check out these best things to do in Zagreb, Croatia.
5. The Pretty Town of Korcula
It is a must to visit at least one island when in Croatia. Aside from Brac and Hvar, another island to explore is Korcula.
Located in South Dalmatia, it is nestled on a small peninsula. Like Dubrovnik, it is surrounded by medieval walls and towers.
The alleyways of Korcula were also laid out in a herringbone pattern so the structures are protected from prevailing winds. The old town is also car-free and quite a gorgeous place to explore.
Easily one of the best places to see in Croatia, this island has a lot of aristocratic stone buildings that are centuries-old.
The architecture is predominantly Venetian, as the island used to be under Venetian rule.
One of Korcula’s best attractions is the Marco Polo house, which is said to be the birthplace of the 13th-century explorer.
Korcula’s pretty architecture and scenic landscapes are also perfect for exploring. Go on foot or rent a bike or scooter to see more of this island.
Check out these best things to do in Korcula, Croatia.
6. Sample All Types Of Food and Wine
Croatian food is pretty diverse and glorious. Sampling the country’s delicious offerings has to be one of the best things to do in Croatia at any time of the year.
Head towards Istria for the truffles and anything that can be made with it.
Go to Hvar for wine, olive oil, and lavender ice cream. Visit any place in the Dalmatian coast for the best seafood dishes. For meat lovers, there’s a lamb in Kvarner and steaks in Zagreb.
Be sure to try the seafood, as they’re always grilled to perfection, lightly fried then added to soups or pasta. Remember though that whether it’s squid, octopus, sardines or prawns, lamb pr steak — pair them with local chilled beer or wine.
7. Find A Konoba
Konoba is a traditional restaurant and one of the best attractions in Croatia. They are usually much cheaper than a restaurant so finding one in any city or town is a treat. Konobas offer traditional specialties that are often distinct or native to a particular locale.
For example, if you’re in a place by the Dalmatian coast, order fresh fish. Chefs in the area truly know how to grill fish to perfection.
A must try Croatian dish in a Konoba is crni rižot — which is a black risotto made from cuttlefish.
If you are a meat lover, try the pašticada. It is a beef dish, where the meat is marinated for 24 hours in garlic, wine, and herbs.
It is often served with homemade gnocchi. Other dishes you need to try while in a Croatian konoba or even a restaurant for that matter are octopus salad and poljički soparnik, especially in Dalmatia.
Travel Tips for Croatia in October
1.Croatia has a thriving coffee culture. If you’re visiting Zagreb, be sure to explore the many coffee shops scattered around the city. A lot of these cafes use their own beans, such as 42 and Co.
Book lovers will enjoy their favorite blend at Booksa, where they encourage you to read and sip. Kino Europa Cafe is quite versatile as its a coffee shop, cinema and grapperia (a place that specializes in grappa) all in one cool setting.
2. Be sure to visit Zadar in October. This seaside locale is a wonderful mix of a vibrant city vibe, culture, art, nature and delicious food. It’s not as touristy as Dubrovnik but the sights are as splendid.
Remember to check out the impressive Sea Organ and the magical Sun Salutation — two amazing art installations located by the seafront.
3. If you’re visiting Rovinj, stop by the beautiful Bale town on the way. Walk along the winding lanes that’ll make you feel like you’re in Umbria or Emilia-Romagna.
Visit the quirky Kamene Priče, a bar, and cafe known for its unusual performances.
4. Croatia has a fantastic culinary scene and some delicious foods.
Apart from buying Croatian staples like paprika, olive oil and truffles, how about learning to cook some of their native dishes? It’s a great way to bring Croatia back home to family and friends.
Be on the lookout for food tours or restaurants that offer lessons and demos for tourists.
5. If you want to experience a truly Croatian festival in October, check out Truffle Day. It happens from late September to early November in various parts of the country. The Istrian peninsula is the Truffle capital though, so it’s best to enjoy it here.
Sample all things truffle or watch cooking demos and fun games. You can also buy lots of truffle or any truffle based products that you can bring home.
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