The Best Mobile Apps for Use in Croatia
August 8, 2024
5 Most Beautiful Beaches of the Makarska Riviera
August 9, 2024When is the best time for backpacking in Croatia?
Our advice — anytime except winter.
While winters in Croatia are usually mild, there will come a time when the northern wind, or as the locals call it: the bora, will blow. It is extremely unpleasant, and when the temperature is around -5°C, it will feel like -15°C. So, why make it harder for yourself?
10 Best Accommodations — Where and Why?
Before we begin, let's make it clear right away — this list will not include hostels.
Are they cheaper? Yes!
Are they a place where you can meet other travelers, like-minded people? Honestly, the answer is yes.
So, why would you even want to go for private accommodation?
Firstly, not every place in Croatia has a hostel. In larger cities, they can be found, but in smaller ones, that's not necessarily the case.
And why miss out on experiencing smaller and lesser-known locations across the country due to limited accommodation options?
Croatia is not just Pula, Split, or Dubrovnik. Croatia also includes its small towns, hidden coves, and hidden gems scattered along the coast.
And the only way to truly experience them is through local accommodation.
Additionally, sometimes a little peace and quiet is all you need. And hostels won’t exactly provide that, will they?
So, switch to your backpacker mode and join us on an adventure from Istria to Dubrovnik.
Pula Riviera
Arena in Pula (Source: Unsplash)
We have to start this journey somewhere, so why not in Istria, known as the largest Croatian peninsula.
A land of excellent food and phenomenal wine— it already sounds like a great choice! As you might guess, this is why Istria is known for its hedonistic state of mind!
Travelers on a budget who want to experience Istrian magic might consider a charming retreat in Pula, just 900 meters from a pebble beach.
Apartments with parking in Pula (16053)
If you’re traveling by car, you can use the parking next to the house, and you'll find everything you need nearby: stores, ATMs, pharmacies, and similar amenities.
Although not centrally located, the city center with the waterfront and the world-famous Roman amphitheater - Pula Arena - is less than a 30-minute walk away.
Overall, this is a fantastic accommodation option at a great price.
From Pula, you can easily set off to explore the rest of Istria — Umag, Poreč, Motovun, and other smaller towns.
The greatest advantage of Istria is that everything is well connected.
Labin Riviera
The town of Labin in Croatia (Source: Unsplash)
After exploring Pula and the rest of Istria, you can head towards Opatija, but before you go, make sure to stop by Labin.
Here’s where you can stay…
Located in Duga Luka, the nearest beach to this accommodation is a pebble beach, and the view is simply breathtaking.
Why choose these apartments?
If you decide to explore southern Istria, this could be your "hidden" base where you can always easily return and relax. Pula is connected by road D66, so you can get there by hitchhiking, bus, or of course, by car.
Another big advantage is the bus station, which is well connected to nearby towns, primarily Pula.
If you're up for an adventure, hitchhiking along D66 will take you to your next destination — Opatija. Just don’t forget — enjoy, but always stay safe!
Opatija Riviera
The city of Opatija in Croatia (Source: Unsplash)
Is there anything left unsaid about Opatija?
The oldest Croatian tourist destination, once favored by the Habsburg royal family, remains one of the top destinations to this day.
And for good reason — the city is comfortably nestled between Istria and Rijeka, leaving you with plenty of opportunities for exploration.
Apartments with parking in Poljane (7885)
Located at the very edge of Učka Nature Park, you can venture further inland or head south towards the sea to explore more of the coastline.
To reach Opatija’s city center, it's best to use public transport since taxis can be a bit pricey.
Privacy is almost guaranteed here, and you will have a phenomenal view of Rijeka and the surrounding coastline. And if you think the terrace is only good for admiring the view, you’ll be happy to know that it’s also spacious enough for enjoying lovely evenings with your friends or partner.
Even if you're on a solo adventure, you’re bound to enjoy it.
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes in Croatia (Source: Unsplash)
Every backpacker will love this part of Croatia, mainly because of the Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Official data states that Plitvice is one of the most beautifully organized natural attractions, which anyone who has visited can confirm.
There are about eight different routes that involve walking or hiking, lasting anywhere from two to eight hours.
Apartments and rooms with a pool, Grabovac (17531)
Located in Grabovac, just a short drive from Plitvice Lakes, but you will still need to do quite a bit of walking to get there.
Additionally, it is located along road D1, a very popular route among those traveling "up and down" Croatia (especially for those avoiding the highway), so you’ll likely find a kind soul willing to give you a ride.
The house itself has over 3000 m² of yard space, offering plenty of room to stretch your legs—if you haven’t already.
Neretva Valley
Neretva River Valley (Source: Pixabay)
Although Dalmatia is full of breathtaking places to visit while backpacking, especially along the Makarska Riviera, once you pass south of Makarska, you’ll come across my favorite spot in Croatia.
If Eden had a relative, it would be the Neretva Valley.
Comfortably situated on the way to Dubrovnik, this place is often overlooked by tourists. But that’s why we’re here to help you correct this mistake…
With so much space to explore, from the stunning Ušće Beach to various hills you can climb... the real question is, why aren’t more backpackers coming here?
Additionally, this is where the highway ends, so if you're looking for a ride, hitchhiking is probably your best bet.
Seafront Apartments Blace, Neretva Delta (16068)
This place is quite popular both in and out of season. I think we can all agree that quality and proximity to the beach usually have that effect, right?
With a yard of 100 m², there isn’t much to explore on-site, but if you have a car, at least you’ll have free parking.
The property also includes a boat mooring, but you’ll need to reserve it in advance.
In any case, this can be a fantastic base for further travel.
Pelješac
Pelješac Bridge (Source: Pixabay)
From Croatia’s largest peninsula (Istria) to the second largest—Pelješac, this tour is a real treat.
It’s quite big, so prepare for some hitchhiking.
If you're into cycling, be cautious, as there are many sharp turns and narrow roads where you'll be alternating between uphill climbs and downhill rides. Are those burning calves worth it? Oh, absolutely!
The best place to stay on Pelješac would be Orebić — purely for convenience.
It’s connected to Korčula, lies along the main road, and offers the best hitchhiking opportunities.
Apartments with parking in Orebić (10082)
This accommodation is affordable, beautiful, and highly rated, so it would be a shame to miss out.
It’s located at the entrance of Orebić, and all essential amenities are within walking distance.
For a hiking adventure and one of the best panoramic views you can experience, head to Viganj, then hike up to Mount Sveti Ilija.
Standing at 961 meters, it takes about 3 hours to hike up from Viganj.
Be sure to bring a hat or cap, apply sunscreen, and pack plenty of water for the hike.
The islands of Korčula, Lastovo, and Mljet will be within your reach from this vantage point.
And if you have the time, don’t miss out on Pelješac’s wine scene.
Locals often joke about it, but there’s some truth to the saying: “If you throw a stone anywhere on Pelješac, it will probably land in someone’s vineyard.”
Island of Korčula
Island of Korčula (Source: Unsplash)
Pelješac can be quite exhausting if you truly decide to explore everything it has to offer.
So, why not simply take the ferry from Orebić to Korčula and use this as the perfect opportunity to relax?
And what better way to unwind than by going on a Robinson-style retreat in this incredible house?
Secluded apartments by the sea, Rasohatica Bay (5453)
It offers parking and a boat mooring, but availability should be checked in advance. However, what is always available are the affordable prices, privacy, and best of all—a private beach.
Of course, private beaches are rare in Croatia (and we wouldn’t want it any other way), but here, a peaceful oasis is guaranteed.
This small bay, facing south toward Italy, welcomes crystal-clear waters, making it a true Adriatic gem.
The road leading to the accommodation is a gravel path of about 100 meters, but aside from that, it is definitely worth staying here.
On the other hand, the house's location makes it an excellent base for exploring the rest of Korčula using all means available to you.
Island of Hvar
Island of Hvar (Source: Unsplash)
Getting to Hvar from Korčula is simple—generally, the best option is to take a catamaran from Korčula town or Vela Luka straight to Hvar town.
Now, Hvar is a really long island.
Of course, not longer than Dugi Otok, but it stretches all the way to Zaostrog, located at the southern end of the Makarska Riviera.
This means you have plenty of space for a true backpacking adventure. For the best backpacking experience on Hvar, this is the recommended accommodation:
Located near Hvar town, within a beautiful bay.
The accommodation is quite affordable by Hvar standards, consistently meets guests' expectations, and most importantly—you'll be far from the hustle and bustle for which Hvar town is famous.
Explore Fortica Bay, visit Milna, or hitchhike to Jelsa.
Oh, and before you leave, make sure to visit the lavender fields. It would be a shame to miss out on this incredible experience. Just imagining those fields brings back the delightful scent of this popular plant!
Island of Brac
Vidova Gora on the island of Brač (Source: Unsplash)
Getting to Brač directly from Hvar can be a bit tricky since there are no direct ferry lines (at least not from Jadrolinija and similar operators).
This means that unless you find private boat transport straight to Brač, you will first need to go to Split, and from there, take a ferry from Split to Supetar.
Now, where should you stay on the island of Brač? This is quite the dilemma, as there are so many fantastic choices.
Apartments with parking in Sutivan (2846)
Located just outside Supetar, along the road leading to Milna (not to be confused with the town of Milna on Hvar).
If walking isn't your thing, you can rent a bicycle or a scooter (both are available for rent in Supetar at relatively affordable prices if you're not bringing your own).
The apartment itself is very affordable and well-maintained.
Additionally, all amenities are within walking distance.
We recommend using Supetar as your starting point for exploring the rest of Brač.
Head up to Vidova Gora and enjoy the view—it is, after all, the highest island in Croatia.
Don't forget to visit Zlatni Rat in Bol, Blaca Hermitage, and treat yourself at Konoba Kopačina—the perfect spot for a great meal, especially if you're craving delicious lamb. Enjoy!
Lokva Rogoznica
Lokva Rogoznica village (Source: Unsplash)
After exploring Brač, the final destination you must visit is near Omiš, in Lokva Rogoznica.
Its proximity to Makarska Riviera and Split makes it an ideal base for further exploration.
Don’t miss out on the Cetina River Canyon, where you can go ziplining, discover the beauty of Biokovo Mountain, or explore the ancient Roman ruins in Split and Solin.
And what better place to stay than this:
Seaside Apartments Lokva Rogoznica (13226)
The views here are simply phenomenal, offering a direct sight of Brač Island—more specifically, its famous marble quarry, which has made Brač world-renowned.
The prices are affordable, there's parking available, and best of all, if you love barbecuing, you’re welcome to use the grill. Just keep in mind that it’s a shared facility, so remember—"Sharing is caring!"
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Backpacking on Hvar (Source: Unsplash)
Transportation During Backpacking
For most people, backpacking is synonymous with traveling on a budget. However, that doesn’t mean you should cut costs at every corner. For example, when on Brač, renting a bike or a small scooter (not the standing kind, but a motorized version) is an excellent idea. Additionally, buses between towns can be quite affordable, but be prepared for constantly changing arrival times due to frequent traffic jams during the season. Finally, since this journey will take you along some of Croatia's busiest roads, hitchhiking is always an option.
Where to Shop for Food in Croatia
Most backpackers won’t have a large budget, so it’s good to know where to shop. Most small towns will have stores like Tommy, Konzum, or Studenac on nearly every corner, though prices may be slightly higher. Of course, in some places, unless you have a car and can drive a bit further for groceries, you won’t have much choice. Croatia also has supermarkets like Lidl, Kaufland, or SPAR where you can find cheaper brands.
