With dramatic sunsets, island-hopping yachts, and palm-lined harbors, it’s no surprise Croatia ranks among the best honeymoon destinations in Europe and one of the most beautiful countries in the world.
A growing number of boutique hotels, spa resorts, and outstanding restaurants make it easy to plan a honeymoon that feels personal. Whether you're after beachside relaxation, vineyard lunches, or quiet villages by the sea, Croatia delivers.
The real question is when to go. Summer brings sunshine and crowds, while spring, early autumn, or even winter offer more space, better prices, and a slower pace.
From medieval cities on the coast to peaceful islands covered in pine forest, Croatia offers plenty of romantic places to unpack and stay a while. Below, we’ve picked the best honeymoon destinations in Croatia to help you plan your perfect trip.
The best honeymoon destinations in Croatia offer more than coastal views and island sunsets. This is a country where romance meets variety. You can lose track of time in a quiet fishing village, explore ancient cities by the sea, or spend entire afternoons in a vineyard with no plans beyond your next glass of wine.
Along the coast, Dubrovnik, Rovinj, and Zadar stand out among the best places to visit in Croatia. Each one has its own charm, with historic streets, open-air cafés, and views that are hard to beat. The islands bring a slower rhythm. Hvar is lively, Korčula is laid-back, and Lošinj is made for couples who want peace and privacy.
Inland, Istria is a different kind of romantic. You’ll find rolling hills, stone villages, and a food scene built on local truffles and wine. For nature lovers, national parks like Plitvice Lakes or Mljet offer space to explore and unwind.
When planning a Croatia itinerary, focus on places you can stay and soak in, not just pass through. With so many unique regions and meaningful things to do in Croatia, this is one honeymoon you won’t need a second version of.
Few cities do romance like Dubrovnik. Walled in ancient stone and set against the Adriatic, it’s all dramatic cliffs, marble streets, and postcard-perfect views. Yes, it’s popular, but there's a reason everyone wants a piece of it.
Start early, before the cruise ship crowds pour in. Walk the city walls, dip into the backstreets, and find a quiet café for breakfast. There’s no shortage of things to do in Dubrovnik, from kayaking beneath the walls to ferrying out to nearby Lokrum or Šipan for a lazy afternoon by the sea.
The old town is compact, but where you stay matters. The best areas to stay in Dubrovnik include the historic center for charm, Ploče for sea views and boutique hotels, and Lapad if you want space, beaches, and a break from the buzz.
Dubrovnik Airport is about 30 minutes from the old town by taxi or airport shuttle. You can also reach Dubrovnik by ferry from nearby islands like Korčula or Mljet. Overland travel from the north requires passing through a short stretch of Bosnia, but the drive is scenic and straightforward.
Skip July and August if you can. May, early June, September, and early October offer warm weather and far fewer crowds. Winter brings peace and moody charm, but expect reduced ferry services and limited nightlife.
Banje beach in Dubrovnik © Shutterstock
Lošinj has made a name for itself as one of the best honeymoon destinations in Croatia, thanks to its laid-back elegance, quiet beauty, and a serious focus on wellness. Once known for family package holidays, it has transformed into a place where spa treatments, herbal therapies, and slow living take center stage.
The island is famous for its clean air and healing plants, which now form the foundation of many hotel wellness programs. Some of the top resorts offer couples’ spa packages that include multi-day rituals using local herbs and oils. It is a place that encourages you to unwind, breathe deeply, and stay a little longer.
When it comes to sea and sand, Lošinj is also within easy reach of some of the best beaches in Croatia. Hop on a local ferry to Susak, a nearby island with sandy shores and a sleepy, timeless atmosphere. Back on Lošinj itself, Mali Lošinj offers pastel-colored houses, seaside dining, and a quiet buzz that never feels overwhelming.
The Apoksiomen, a beautifully preserved ancient statue of an athlete, is one of the island’s cultural highlights and adds a hint of sensuality to this already romantic setting.
Lošinj is accessible by road from the island of Cres, which is connected to the mainland by regular ferries from Brestova or Krk. Catamarans also operate from Rijeka and Zadar, although services are limited outside the summer season. Getting here takes time, but that is part of the island’s appeal.
May, June, September, and early October offer warm weather, calm seas, and fewer visitors. These months are ideal for swimming and exploring nearby beaches. July and August are busier but still manageable. Spa resorts operate year-round, so a winter visit focused on wellness is also a good option.
Panoramic view of Losinj, one of Croatia's top honeymoon destinations © Dani Vincek/Shutterstock
Hvar Town might be a magnet for yacht-hoppers and celebrities, but it still manages to feel authentic beneath the surface. Set against pine-covered hills and backed by medieval stone architecture, this coastal gem blends glamour with history in a way few places can. If you're planning a honeymoon in Croatia with a touch of luxury, Hvar fits the brief.
Often called the Queen of the Dalmatian Islands, Hvar lives up to the title. Its old town is a maze of Gothic palaces, sun-soaked piazzas, and open-air cocktail spots that buzz well into the night. But there’s more to the island than parties and prosecco. Head inland to explore the Stari Grad Plain, a UNESCO-listed agricultural landscape, or wander the cobbled streets of nearby Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe. @
Hvar is also a perfect launchpad for island hopping in Croatia. Water taxis and private boats run regularly to the nearby Pakleni Islands, a cluster of pine-covered islets with rocky coves, beach clubs, and clear swimming spots. If you’re planning to explore more of the best islands in Croatia, Hvar makes a convenient base, with connections to places like Vis, Brač, and Korčula.
Ferries and catamarans run frequently from Split to Hvar Town or Stari Grad. The fast catamaran is the easiest option for foot passengers, while car ferries go to Stari Grad. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to Hvar Town. Private boat transfers are also available if you're looking for something more exclusive.
Late May to early October is ideal. July and August are the busiest months, especially in Hvar Town, which draws a summer crowd of partygoers and yacht crews. If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe, visit in June or September when the sea is warm, the bars are less crowded, and the island still feels alive without being overwhelming.
Hvar in Dalmatia, Croatia © xbrchx/Shutterstock
With its pastel houses stacked above a working harbor and laundry lines fluttering between shuttered windows, Rovinj looks more Italian than Croatian, and that’s not far from the truth. Set on the Istrian coast, this romantic town blends Venetian architecture with Adriatic charm, making it one of the most picturesque stops on any honeymoon in Croatia.
The old town climbs toward the hilltop Church of St. Euphemia, where winding alleys lead past local ateliers, wine bars, and small galleries. But it’s not just about looks. Rovinj is also one of the top foodie experiences in Croatia, known for its fresh seafood, truffles, and Istrian olive oil. Restaurants here lean into local ingredients with flair. Order oysters from nearby Lim Fjord, try homemade fuži pasta with truffles, and finish with a glass of crisp Malvasia.
Rovinj may feel quiet, but that’s part of the appeal. It’s polished without being flashy, traditional without trying too hard. You’re here to slow down, eat well, and fall for Istria’s laid-back rhythm.
Rovinj is easiest to reach by car or bus from nearby cities like Pula (40 minutes) or Rijeka (90 minutes). The nearest airport is Pula, which has seasonal flights from across Europe. There are also ferry connections to Venice in the summer months.
May, June, September, and early October are ideal. The town stays lively without becoming overrun. Summer is warmer and busier, but rarely unbearable. Restaurants and bars stay open year-round, although some smaller galleries and shops close during the winter months.
View of Moored Boat and the Old City in Rovinj, Croatia © Rolf E. Staerk/Shutterstock
If Dubrovnik is the headline act, Korčula is the quiet encore. Set on a compact peninsula surrounded by sea and backed by forested hills, Korčula Town offers medieval charm without the crush of crowds. Red-roofed houses, Gothic architecture, and narrow alleyways give the town an intimate feel that suits a slower, more relaxed pace.
This is a place where you can spend the day cycling between vineyards and pebbled coves, then return to a harborside restaurant for grilled fish and a glass of local white wine. Evenings are made for waterfront walks, hidden wine bars, and the occasional live music drifting in from a square.
If you’re planning to stay put for a while, Korčula makes an easy and romantic base. It offers just enough to keep things interesting, while encouraging you to let go of the clock.
Ferries and catamarans connect Korčula with Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik. The main port is in Korčula Town. If driving, you can reach the island via ferry from Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula.
Late spring through early autumn is best. July and August are lively but still manageable. For fewer crowds and warm seas, aim for June or September.
Korcula, old medieval town in Dalmatia region, Croatia © Shutterstock
Vis feels like a secret that never got out. As one of the most remote inhabited islands in the country, it has managed to stay under the radar, which is exactly why it ranks among the best honeymoon destinations in Croatia. You won’t find flashy resorts here, just quiet stone towns, crystal-clear water, and seafood so fresh it rarely travels more than a few meters from boat to plate.
The main towns, Vis and Komiža, are relaxed and welcoming, perfect for long evenings by the water. The beaches are peaceful, the sea is calm, and the inland trails take you past olive groves, vineyards, and abandoned military tunnels. If you need a break from planning or sightseeing, this is the place to stop and simply be.
Vis is also a favorite stop for those interested in sailing in Croatia. Its deep bays, hidden coves, and offshore caves make it a natural fit for exploring by boat.
The only way to reach Vis is by ferry or catamaran from Split. The journey takes around two and a half hours, with frequent services in summer. No airport, no shortcuts, and no stress.
Late May through September offers the best weather and reliable ferry connections. July and August are the busiest, but still much quieter than other islands. June and September are ideal for fewer crowds and warm sea temperatures.
Vis Island, Croatian islands getaways
Mljet is one of the greenest and most peaceful islands in Croatia. Most of it is covered in thick pine forest, with a national park at the western end where saltwater lakes stretch out between the hills. It is quiet, scenic, and built for relaxation.
There is not much nightlife and very few large hotels. Instead, you will find guesthouses and small family-run spots in places like Pomena and Polače, both set inside the national park. Rent bikes or kayaks, pack a picnic, and explore the lakes at your own pace. Swim, walk, and forget about your phone for a while.
Mljet is perfect if you are looking for stillness and nature with just enough infrastructure to keep things easy.
Daily ferries connect Mljet with Dubrovnik and Korčula during the tourist season. Catamarans usually stop at Sobra, while car ferries go to Pomena or Polače, depending on the route. There is no airport on the island.
May to September is the best time to visit. The lakes warm up early in the season, and the weather stays mild into October. July and August are the busiest months but still feel calm compared to the mainland.
Island Mljet, Prozurska luka, Croatia © Simun Ascic/Shutterstock
Šipan is the largest of the Elaphiti Islands, although “large” here still means small and unhurried. Just two villages, Suđurađ and Šipanska Luka, are linked by a quiet inland road that winds past olive groves, fig trees, and half-forgotten stone estates.
There is not much to do on Šipan, and that is exactly why it works. Mornings start slow, afternoons drift into long seafood lunches by the sea, and evenings are best spent watching the sun drop into the Adriatic with a glass of local wine. It is a place that fits perfectly into a Croatian honeymoon for couples who want peace close to Dubrovnik but far from its noise. Three or four nights here feels like a reset.
Ferries run several times a day from Dubrovnik’s Gruž port to Suđurađ. The ride takes about an hour and passes Koločep and Lopud along the way. Cars are permitted on the island, though they are hardly necessary.
The island is most enjoyable from May to early October. High summer brings a touch more bustle, but never a true crowd. Spring and autumn are wonderfully calm, with mild weather that is perfect for walking or cycling.
Zadar, Croatia @ Shutterstock
Zadar is not always the first city that comes to mind for a honeymoon, but it has plenty to offer couples who want something different. The old town sits on a narrow peninsula, framed by Roman ruins, medieval churches, and one of the most spectacular sunset views on the Adriatic.
Among the many reasons to visit Zadar, two stand out. The first is the Sea Organ, an architectural oddity that transforms waves into sound. The second is the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered art installation that lights up the waterfront each night. Together, they give the city a playful, atmospheric edge.
Add to that a lively food scene, late-night wine bars, and quiet courtyards where you can dine on seafood under the stars, and Zadar quickly proves its worth. Compact, cultural, and less polished than Dubrovnik, it makes a strong base for day trips to nearby islands or national parks.
Zadar has its own international airport with seasonal connections across Europe. Buses link the airport to the city in around 20 minutes. Ferries connect Zadar with nearby islands such as Ugljan, Dugi Otok, and Pašman.
Visit between May and October for warm weather and swimming. July and August bring more energy, but never feel overwhelming. May, June, and September offer a perfect balance of comfort and calm.
People silhouette on colorful sunset in Zadar, Dalmatia, Croatia
Set high above a sea of green hills, Motovun is Istria’s most atmospheric hill town. Cobbled streets, terracotta roofs, and medieval stone houses give it an old-world feel, but it is the surrounding countryside that really sets the mood. It may not have beaches, yet Motovun still earns a place among the best honeymoon destinations in Croatia for couples who want food, wine, and tranquility over sand and surf.
This is truffle country. Almost every restaurant offers handmade pasta with freshly shaved truffles, and local wine flows freely. Vineyards and olive groves stretch to the horizon, and nearby villages like Grožnjan and Oprtalj are easy and worthwhile detours. Evenings here are about long dinners, quiet walks through stone alleys, and watching the hills turn gold in the setting sun.
The nearest airport is in Pula, about 75 minutes away by car. Rovinj and Poreč are also within easy reach. Public transport is limited, so hiring a car is the most practical option.
Spring and autumn are ideal for food lovers. May and June bring wildflowers and mild weather. September and October are peak truffle season. Summer is warmer and livelier, especially during the Motovun Film Festival.
written by
Olga Sitnitsa
updated 01.09.2025
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