By March in Croatia, the Adriatic Sea is already sparkling under a warmer sun, its islands adorned with wildflowers and its forests buzzing with the sounds of renewal. The winter chill has been replaced by balmy breezes that carry the revitalising scents of pine and salt, inviting travellers to explore this immensely beautiful land.
The Plitvice Lakes roar with recently thawed waterfalls, Dubrovnik’s marble streets shine under clear skies, and coastal villages bask in the golden light of the longer days. Whether you are out wandering through Split’s historic Roman palace or hiking the green trails of Mljet, spring in Croatia offers a special kind of magic!
Continue reading to discover a few of our very favourite spring destinations. And, if you are travelling in Dubrovnik, be sure to explore our selection of Luxury Boat Tours from Dubrovnik and Dubrovnik Day Tours.
Split
Split is a vibrant blend of ancient history and contemporary charm, and spring showcases the best of both worlds. The city’s centrepiece, Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms into a living museum during this season, with fewer tourists crowding its cobblestone streets.
You can explore hidden alleys, bustling squares, and preserved Roman architecture at your leisure. The Riva promenade comes alive in spring, lined with open-air cafés that are perfect for sipping coffee or sampling local pastries like fritule. From Split, Marjan Hill offers a short yet rewarding hike, providing panoramic views of the city and nearby islands. Spring is also an excellent time for getting out and enjoying those islands. Ferries to Brač, Hvar, and Šolta are less crowded, making day trips easy and enjoyable.
Elaphiti Islands
The Elaphiti Islands, located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, serve as a serene getaway in the spring, providing a peaceful alternative to the busy mainland. This archipelago consists of 13 islands, but only three—Šipan, Lopud, and Koločep—are inhabited and accessible by ferry. The mild weather of spring makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking.
Šipan, the largest island, is renowned for its historic stone villas and olive groves. Lopud is car-free, contributing to its tranquil atmosphere, and features Sunj Beach, a shallow, sandy bay perfect for leisurely walks. Koločep, the closest island to Dubrovnik, is covered in pine forests and hidden coves, making it a wonderful spot for a quiet day of exploration.
During spring, the islands burst with blooming wildflowers, and the calm waters of the Adriatic Sea are perfect for kayaking along the rugged coastline. Visitors can enjoy local restaurants that serve freshly caught seafood and Dalmatian specialities, often without the need for reservations.
Of course, there’s simply no better way to enjoy the majesty of the Elaphiti Islands than by taking a guided, luxury boat tour. Check out our Full-Day Boat Tour of the Elaphiti Islands (with Blue Cave Visit).
Krka National Park
Krka National Park is best visited in spring when its seven waterfalls, including Skradinski Buk, are at their most impressive due to seasonal rains. Located in central Dalmatia, near Šibenik, the park offers stunning natural scenery and cultural history. Spring is the ideal time for walking the park’s trails, which feature lush greenery and wooden boardwalks with views of turquoise pools and waterfalls. The park hosts over 800 plant species and various bird species, making it a great destination for lovers of wildlife and the great outdoors.
A popular attraction is the boat trip to Visovac Island, home to a 15th-century Franciscan monastery (pictured above). Fewer visitors in spring provide a quiet atmosphere to enjoy the sounds of the park.
Krka National Park also features educational trails like the Ethno Village near Skradinski Buk, where visitors can learn about traditional Dalmatian life, including water mills and weaving demonstrations.
Dubrovnik
We are, perhaps, biased but Dubrovnik is our favourite Croatian city and it’s unquestionably a must-visit destination for those new to Croatia. Dubrovnik in spring offers a rare opportunity to explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town without the enormous summer crowds. The city’s famed medieval walls are easier to navigate, allowing visitors more time to appreciate the sea views and contemplate the history of the place.
The milder weather is perfect for wandering the Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main thoroughfare, where cafés spill into the street and offer delightfully picturesque spaces to relax. Nearby, you can discover quiet corners like St. Ignatius Church or the Rector’s Palace, which houses an engaging historical museum.
We also recommend a visit to Lokrum Island which is only a 15-minute ferry ride from the harbor. Covered in pine forests and surrounded by rocky beaches, it’s an oasis of calm just minutes from the heart of the city.
Mljet
Mljet, often considered one of Croatia’s greenest islands, feels like a hidden gem in spring. The highlight of the island is Mljet National Park, which features two beautiful saltwater lakes—Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero—connected by a narrow channel. Visitors can hike or cycle along the park’s serene trails, rent a kayak to explore the lakes or take a small boat to St. Mary’s Island, home to a 12th-century Benedictine monastery.
Unlike the busier summer months, springtime on Mljet offers tranquillity. The island’s mild temperatures and blooming vegetation make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts. The local villages, such as Pomena and Polače, are quieter, yet they still provide ample opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood and local wines. It’s the perfect retreat for those seeking peace and natural beauty.
If you’d like to visit Mljet as part of a guided tour, consider booking a place on our Legendary Mljet Island Boat Tour.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as one of Croatia’s most breathtaking destinations. If you’re looking to experience the park’s 16 interconnected lakes and stunning waterfalls at their peak, spring is undoubtedly the ideal season to visit. With seasonal rains nourishing the waterways, you’ll witness dramatic cascades, all while the surrounding forests come alive with vibrant greenery.
The park features a network of well-marked trails and wooden boardwalks, making it easy for visitors to explore at their leisure. A favourite route among travellers is the lower lakes trail, where you can take in the impressive Veliki Slap, the tallest waterfall in the park, plunging an impressive 78 meters. If you have extra time on your hands, the upper lakes provide quieter paths and breathtaking views that are worth the trek.
This brings to a close our short list of fantastic spring destinations in Croatia. We hope we’ve provided you with plenty of inspiration for your travels! If you will be visiting Dubrovnik during your vacation, be sure to consider our selection of Luxury Boat Tours from Dubrovnik and Dubrovnik Day Tours.
