Elaine’s Blog: Multi-centre Croatia – beyond the beach

After 37+ years in the travel industry, Croatia remains one of my favourite destinations to recommend – and for good reason. I've been arranging Croatian holidays for my clients for numerous years, from romantic city breaks in Dubrovnik to yacht cruises around the stunning islands - and the feedback is consistently wonderful.

My clients always return talking about Croatia's beautiful scenery, rich culture and fascinating history. The stunning national parks are a particular highlight, though I do advise that summer can get quite busy in Dubrovnik when the cruise ships arrive – which is why I often recommend the shoulder seasons for a more relaxed experience.

What I love about Croatia is its incredible diversity packed into one country. You can explore medieval fortress towns perched on dramatic coastlines, island-hop through crystal-clear waters and discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, all within easy reach of each other.

Whether my clients choose Split, the Lapad Bay area, or venture further to the islands, they're always amazed by how much variety Croatia offers.

This versatility makes Croatia ideal for multi-centre holidays. Families love combining cultural exploration with beach time and water sports, while couples often prefer the romance of historic towns paired with peaceful island retreats. The connectivity is excellent too – with flights into both northern and southern regions, plus reliable ferry networks between islands.

Spring and autumn are particularly attractive – May, June, September and October deliver lovely weather, smaller crowds and excellent value for money.

Getting Around

Croatia makes multi-centre travel effortless. Self-drive holidays work beautifully on well-maintained roads, while regular ferries and catamarans connect the islands seamlessly. For those preferring a more relaxed approach, I can arrange private transfers, or there's the option of small-ship cruising – perfect for discovering hidden coves and charming fishing ports at a gentle pace.

Food & Wine

Croatia's culinary scene reflects its position at the crossroads of Central Europe and the Mediterranean. You'll find Italian influences in fresh pasta and wood-fired pizzas, but the local specialties steal the show: Adriatic seafood, Ston oysters, premium olive oils, Kvarner Bay scampi, and increasingly impressive wines. Dining ranges from traditional seaside konobas to sophisticated restaurants earning Michelin recognition.

Island Highlights

With over 1,000 islands, Croatia offers endless possibilities. Here are some client favourites:

Hvar

Croatia's sunniest island combines glamorous Hvar Town with peaceful Stari Grad. Lavender fields, vineyards, Venetian architecture, and boat trips to the nearby Pakleni Islands create the perfect island experience.

Brac

Home to the famous Zlatni Rat beach and charming towns like Bol and Supetar. The island's limestone quarries supplied stone for the White House, while olive groves and traditional villages offer authentic Croatian character.

Korcula

This medieval gem, often associated with Marco Polo, enchants visitors with its maze-like Old Town, excellent local wines and secluded swimming spots.

Multi-Centre Combinations

Split & Island-Hopping

Use Split's excellent ferry connections to explore nearby islands at your own pace.

Dubrovnik & Montenegro

Combine Croatia's crown jewel with neighbouring Montenegro's dramatic landscapes and coastal towns.

Where To Stay

Croatia excels in characterful accommodation, from boutique hotels within historic city walls to stylish coastal resorts. I particularly enjoy finding properties that capture the authentic Croatian spirit while delivering the comfort and service my clients expect.

When To Visit

For the best balance of weather, value and fewer crowds, May and September are ideal. However, Croatia's most appealing hotels and yacht charters book up well in advance, so early planning is recommended.

Current offers include attractive savings on Croatia cruises, such as a May 2026 departure with £688 per couple savings (prices from £1,790pp half board).

Throughout my career, I've relied on Prestige Holidays for Croatia – they're a solid, well-trusted brand where customer service and attention to detail are paramount. What I value most is their crisis management; they often resolve issues before clients even know there's been a problem. Having worked with them across my many years in travel, I have complete confidence in their expertise and reliability.

Whether you're dreaming of a romantic escape, family adventure or cultural discovery, I'd love to help you explore Croatia beyond the beaches. Let's discuss how we can create your perfect Croatian multi-centre experience.