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Best Family Vacation in Croatia
We just returned from the best family vacation in Croatia! I have to say, it was one of the top five vacations we’ve ever taken! The country is absolutely beautiful, the food is great, and the people are so friendly. We spent part of our time in the Italian-style old town of Pula. It’s on the Istrian Peninsula and has a Unesco World Heritage site, which is north of the Dalmatian coast. We ended our trip in Zagreb, the capital city. We had a blast swimming in the ocean along the Adriatic coast, exploring medieval castles, and eating gelato every day. You are going to love planning the best family vacation in Croatia with kids. I would highly recommend it!
As a family that loves to homeschool, travel, and learn using the world as our classroom, I want to make sure you know about one of Croatia’s most famous scientists and inventors – Nikola Tesla. ~Shannan, Homeschool Mom
What to Consider When Planning the Best Family Vacation in Croatia with kids
Croatia is the best destination for a family vacation in Croatia with kids because it has something for everyone. The beaches on the Adriatic Sea are beautiful and there are plenty of activities to keep the kids busy – especially in high season. There are resorts in the coastal towns, which have a full kids program in the summer months. The food is also kid-friendly and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from.
The best time for a family vacation in Croatia with kids
I’ve got loads of Croatia travel tips for you so let’s get to it!
The best time to visit Croatia with kids is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, if you’re looking to avoid the summer crowds and the heat, shoulder season (May-June and September-October) can be a good time to visit as well.
Keep in mind that some attractions may be closed since it is no longer peak season. This was the case while we were the, but the beaches, water activities, excursions, and museums in the old city made up for anything we may have missed during the summer. But the missed crowds and the ability to stroll down quiet streets were truly priceless! The great views, the pebble beaches, and the variety of ice cream (gelato) options in Pula are worth every minute! Pula really is a perfect place and makes the best family vacation in Croatia destination.
Winter in Croatia
Winter can be cold in Croatia, especially along the coast, but if you’re planning on spending most of your time indoors (or in the heated pools at many of the resorts), it can still be a great time to visit. Just remember to pack your warmest clothes!
The average daytime winter temps in Pula are typically in the 50s F and the low temps are almost 40 F degrees. Inland, in the capital city of Zagreb, it temps are about 10 degrees colder than in Pula during the winter.
How to get around Croatia with kids
There is no single definitive answer to this question. While some parents may opt to drive or take public transportation with their kids, others may prefer to fly into one of the major cities in Croatia and then rent a car. Ultimately, the best way to get around Croatia with kids will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.
Since Pula and other coastal towns have no train service, you will want to consider, the bus, renting a car, or short-hop flights between the larger cities. We took a private bus service (coach) from Pula to Zagreb. It was a perfect rest day for us to recuperate from all the walking around Pula. The 4-hour trip was affordable and in an air condition coach. We would recommend the bus for any day trip. It makes family travel so much less hectic. Our experience was delightful.
If it’s your first time traveling in European countries like Croatia, it’s a good idea to grab a snack o take with you. It is several hours before they stop for a break where you can buy food. The trip from Pula to Zagreb passes through small villages with beautiful olive groves and farmland. The closer you get to Zagreb, you’ll find mountain passes and famous ports. The trip is a relaxing one with just enough scenery to keep you curious about what might be around the next bend.
What to see and do during the Best Family Vacation in Croatia with kids
Croatia with kids is an amazing family destination, offering something for everyone – from sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters to medieval towns and castles.
Here are our top 10 things to see and do in Croatia with kids:
- Ride a cable car up to Dubrovnik’s Old Town – the views are amazing!
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park – don’t forget your camera! Croatia’s National Parks are pristine – a must for first-time visitors.
- Explore the amazing city of Split, with its ancient Roman ruins.
- Take a boat trip out to one of Croatia’s stunning islands – Hvar is a small island that makes a great choice for families. Don’t forget your water shoes!
- Visit Krka National Park to see the magnificent waterfalls – and maybe cool off with a swim!
- Discover Zagreb, Croatia’s capital city, with its many museums and parks perfect for families. Don’t miss learning about Croatia’s most famous scientist – Nikola Tesla.
- Visit Pula and go on a safari in Istria to see some of Croatia’s native wildlife up close. Don’t miss their historical sites in the old town.
- Learn about the fascinating history of Croatia at the Zagreb City Museum
- Learn more about Croatian history at the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb.
- Relax on one of the many Croatian beaches – sun, sand, and sea await you! You’ll love Zadar!
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Where to stay in Croatia with kids
There are many different options for accommodation in Croatia, depending on your budget, location, and preferences. If you’re traveling with your whole family or young children, it’s important to choose a place that is both kid-friendly and convenient for your family.
Some of the best places to stay in Croatia with kids include family-friendly hotels, self-catering apartments, and villas, as well as camping and caravan parks. Many of the bigger cities have a wide range of accommodation options, so you’re sure to find something to suit your needs. You can even enjoy some great family-friendly hostels, which are often easy access from both airports bus depots, or train stations. They’re a great way to save money!
Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia include Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and Zadar.
These cities all have a range of accommodation options, as well as plenty of things to keep the kids entertained. Dubrovnik is home to many historic buildings and museums, while Split has a large number of parks and playgrounds. Hvar town is a great place for families who enjoy spending time outdoors, with its beautiful beaches and hiking trails. Any of these cities is a great option for summer vacation. The activities below incorporate great value at some of the most popular destinations in Croatia.
But don’t miss out on the unique culture and quaint places like Pula. Remember, the more north you go along the coastline, the more Italian it gets!
What to eat in Croatia with kids
If you’re planning a trip to Croatia with kids, you might be wondering what the best options are for food. While Croatian food is generally very good, it can be quite heavy and there may not be many options that appeal to kids.
Here are some tips on what to eat in Croatia with kids:
- One option is to stick with simple, grilled meats like chicken or steak. These can be found at most restaurants and will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
- If your kids are adventurous eaters, they might enjoy some of the traditional Croatian dishes like ćevapi (a kind of sausage) or sarma (cabbage rolls).
- Being so close to Italy, Croatia is also home to a number of pizzerias and a variety of European favorites.
- And of course, no trip to Croatia would be complete without trying some of the local ice creams commonly known as Gelato!
Enjoying and trying the local food, is always fun, but rest assured that there are plenty of options for the picky eaters that would be happy with yummy pasta, pizza, or a burger. Shopping at the street markets for fresh local food can be fun too! The Croatian Kuna is the preferred payment as most don’t have the ability to process credit cards. In January 2022, the Euro will be the currency to use in most visited places.
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Use these resources to help you homeschool, travel, and learn together! Your family will love the smaller towns with fewer people, but don’t miss out on the nation’s capital, Zagreb. It’s a great city for the best museums during the peak summer season or any time of year. The great thing about a Croatia family holiday is being together, and experiencing cultures Exploring places like botanical gardens and the crystal clear waters and nearby islands close to Pula are true memory makers and perfect places to homeschool, travel, and learn together!
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Can’t Travel Just Yet? Go Virtually!
Yep! You can visit Croatia virtually! You’d love the virtual tours that have popped up! Go ahead,
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