Planning your trip to Croatia? Discover the best landmarks that showcase the country’s stunning beauty and rich history!

I soon understood why Croatia is so popular as I traveled across it. Croatian landmarks are gorgeous, historical, cultural, and magical.

20 Best Landmarks In Croatia

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Walking into Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was like entering a magical world of waterfalls and blue lakes. As I went along the wooden paths, the park’s 16 interconnecting lakes, each more beautiful than the last, captured me.

Lake Kozjak peacefully separated the top and lower lakes, which I investigated with flowing water. I took a boat trip over Kozjak’s peaceful waters to see the lakes’ rich foliage. It’s a premier landmark in Croatia.

2. Diocletian’s Palace

After entering through the historic gates, I was amazed at how the city has effortlessly merged around this Roman fortification. The towering columns and one of the few preserved Egyptian sphinx stunned me as I walked across the center square, the Peristil.

I saw Split’s vibrancy in the underground basements, now crowded with businesses and sellers. Standing where Diocletian stood, I could nearly envision his era’s splendor. The best part is that you may explore the palace for free. Diocletian’s Palace is a top attraction in Croatia.

3. Upper Town of Zagreb

The Upper Town of Zagreb is a standout landmark in Croatia. Its location, home to the Croatian Parliament and the old Ban’s house, made the plaza feel alive with history. Walking along the small, cobblestone streets, I could practically feel the old town’s beauty at every corner.

The Gothic Cathedral was stunning. Its meticulous features and majesty left me dumbfounded, reminding me why it’s the most massive ecclesiastical architecture southeast of the Alps.

Related read: Best Things To Do in Zagreb, Croatia

4. The Smallest Town in the World, Hum

Visiting Hum, the world’s tiniest village, was like entering a storybook. In the heart of Istria, this little village of 30 or so has history and beauty.

Walking through its small alleyways, surrounded by ancient stone walls, I was amazed at how well-preserved everything seemed like a medieval museum. The village was barely 100 meters long, yet every corner had something to tell.

5. Brijuni National Park

Visiting Brijuni National Park was like entering a living museum of nature and history. After a short boat voyage from the Istrian coast, I reached Veliki Brijun Island, the largest of the fourteen Brijuni Islands.

The lush, verdant landscapes and crystal-clear lakes were stunning. I began my tour in the Safari Park, where I saw the Asian elephant and zebu, a gift from Croatia’s diplomatic relations.

6. Zlatni Rat Beach

What made Zlatni Rat Beach so memorable was its distinctive shape, a long, pebbly spit of land reaching into the blue ocean. Some beaches are sandy, but this one was formed of smooth, little pebbles that were surprisingly nice to walk on.

7. Krka National Park

It was my top priority to see Krka National Park in Croatia, and it did not disappoint. In the heart of Dalmatia, this park is a paradise for nature lovers.

I heard flowing water and saw vivid flora as I strolled through the beautiful pathways. The tallest waterfall, Skrdinski Buk, cascaded into crystal-clear pools where I couldn’t resist swimming.

8. Dubrovnik Old Town

I marveled as I entered Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town through its massive gates. The centuries-old stone walls surrounded the city, giving a historical aura. I was transported to another time walking down tiny, cobblestone alleyways with baroque houses, historic churches, and vibrant squares.

I ended my day watching boats at the Old Port after visiting the Dubrovnik Cathedral, which has stunning paintings and treasures. The Old Town of Dubrovnik is a living museum of history and culture.

Related read:  Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia

9. Odysseus Cave

Walking into Odysseus Cave on Mljet felt like entering legend. After a short boat journey down the rocky shore, I arrived at the cave entrance, where the pristine water sparkled deep blue and green.

As I floated in the chilly water inside, I felt the place’s mystery and antiquity. The cave’s high granite walls and overhead light made it feel surreal.

10. Imotski Blue Lake

Imotski’s Blue Lake, with its changing water levels and year-round beauty, was a must-see. The brilliant blue tones in the sunlight stunned me as I climbed down the 1100m route to the lake. At times, the lake may be as deep as 90 meters, but in early October, it dries out and becomes a football field for local matches.

11. Cathedral of Saint Domnius

I had to see the Cathedral of Saint Domnius in Split. I was astounded by how well-preserved the octagonal Roman edifice was as I approached.

Originally a tomb for Emperor Diocletian, it today symbolizes Christian persistence in the region. I felt history in every stone as I entered the magnificent entryway. Elegant woodwork and frescoes on the walls awed me inside.

12. Roman Ruins of Salona

In Solin, Croatia, I visit the amazing Salona Roman Ruins. From the moment I entered the historic city, I imagined life in Roman Dalmatia’s capital.

From the massive amphitheater to the Roman baths and aqueducts, the ruins are stunning. Many of the city’s stone walls still have Latin and Greek inscriptions, revealing its rich past.

13. Klis Fortress

When I got near Klis Fortress, I understood why it was called the “Key to Dalmatia.” The stronghold overlooks Split and the Adriatic from a steep ledge between two mountains.

It was hard yet gratifying to reach the summit, which felt like entering a time capsule. Klis Fortress was quiet during Split’s shoulder season, unlike other tourist destinations.

14. Arena Pula

Tall stone walls that have existed for almost 2,000 years made entering feel like stepping back in time at Arena Pula. Walking down the underground corridors, I could almost see the gladiators preparing for war, history all around me.

A wonderful display of olive oil and wine production in ancient Istria is currently in these sections, enriching the visit.

15. Dubrovnik City Walls

Dubrovnik City Walls is a must-see destination in Croatia. As I went onto the historic stone path, I was treated to stunning views of the red-roofed Old Town and the Adriatic Sea.

I passed towers, fortifications, and viewing spots on ancient walls that transported me back in time. It was worth the 35 euros to see Dubrovnik’s gorgeous architecture and layout from a new angle.

Related read: Best Things To Do In Dubrovnik, Croatia

16. Zadar’s Sea Organ

Zadar’s Sea Organ is one of its most amazing attractions. Before I reached the beach, I heard the eerie, musical sounds of the waves on the organ’s stairs.

Sitting, I let the soothing music wash over me as the sunset. The natural beauty and calm melody made it amazing. I visited the spectacular solar-powered Greeting to the Sun a few yards away, which lit up in the dark.

Related read: Best Things To Do in Zadar, Croatia

17. Rovinj Old Town

Entering Rovinj’s Old Town is like going back in time. As I walked through the small cobblestone alleyways, the ancient buildings that seemed to emerge from the water captivated me.

I climbed the steep walk to St. Euphemia’s Basilica, the town’s centerpiece, for breathtaking Adriatic vistas. My exploration brought me to Vladimir Švalbe Street, where I enjoyed the sea breeze while strolling past exquisite galleries and cafés in centuries-old houses.

Marsala Tita Square, Rovinj’s social core, is where I had a rest beside the fountain to watch residents and visitors. Nearby, the town clock proudly displays the city’s long history.

Related read:  Best Things To Do In Rovinj, Croatia

18. Trakoscan Castle

Trakoscan Castle is a prominent Croatian attraction. My journey to Croatia included seeing the beautiful Trakošćan Castle, located 80 miles northwest of Zagreb. I was immediately drawn to its fairy-tale setting on a hill overlooking an artificial lake surrounded by beautiful flora.

Upon entering the castle, the museum provided a fascinating look into the Drašković family’s life, with well-preserved chambers and authentic furnishings. With Gothic and baroque styles on each floor, I could feel the castle’s history.

Related read: Must-See And Best Castles In Croatia 

19. City of Ston

The City of Ston is a top-rated landmark in Croatia. The small alleyways surrounded by historic stone buildings give the place a mysterious, calm feel.

The huge stone wall across the hills 5.6 kilometers long and Europe’s second longest after Hadrian’s Wall caught my eye. I climbed up and got great views. As I climbed, I saw the village below with its peaceful streets and terracotta rooftops merging into the scenery.

20. St. James Cathedral

A journey to Šibenik is incomplete without admiring the stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture of St. James Cathedral.

The elaborate carvings, especially the rows of faces etched into the outside, drew my eye immediately they were so lifelike and had diverse expressions. I slowly admired the unusual combination of architectural styles, feeling the rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Final Thoughts

As I toured Croatia’s wonderful landmarks, I learned its beauty goes beyond its beaches. From ancient Roman ruins to stunning national parks, each sight revealed Croatia’s rich history and various landscapes.