Croatia is one of Europe’s most rewarding hiking destinations right now, offering everything from easy coastal walks to demanding multi-day mountain routes through protected wilderness. Croatia offers some of the best hiking in Europe, combining coastal paths, island ascents, and serious mountain terrain within a compact, easy-to-navigate country.
With well-marked trails, dramatic landscapes, and a long hiking season stretching from early spring to late autumn, Croatia works just as well for first-time hikers as it does for experienced trekkers.
This guide focuses on the best hiking in Croatia you can realistically plan today, based on terrain, access, seasonal conditions, and on-the-ground practicality rather than hype.
Quick comparison of Croatia’s most popular hiking areas:
| Location | Difficulty | Best Season | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plitvice Lakes | Easy | Spring, Autumn | Lakes, waterfalls, boardwalks |
| Velebit | Moderate–Hard | Late Spring–Autumn | Remote peaks, long-distance trails |
| Biokovo | Hard | Spring, Autumn | High-altitude coastal views |
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Best Time Of Year For Hiking In Croatia
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are generally the best times for hiking in Croatia. Temperatures are cooler, trails are quieter, and conditions are ideal for both coastal and mountain routes.
Summer hiking is possible, especially early in the day, but heat and limited shade can make exposed trails more demanding, particularly in Dalmatia and on the islands. Winter hiking is best suited to experienced hikers and to lower-elevation routes, as snow and wind can affect mountain areas such as Velebit and Biokovo.
What makes hiking in Croatia stand out is the variety packed into a relatively small country. You can hike coastal paths overlooking the Adriatic in the morning, climb a rugged mountain ridge by afternoon, or spend days trekking through remote national parks with little development around you.
This guide is designed to help you choose the best hikes in Croatia based on difficulty, landscape, and practical planning. Whether you are looking for easy hikes for beginners, coastal walking routes, or demanding mountain trails, the hikes below cover the most rewarding options across the country.
Best Hiking In Croatia By Area
| Hike Spot | Why you should hike it |
|---|---|
| Velebit Mountain Range | The awe-inspiring Velebit commands respect. Hit up Paklenica National Park for trails that’ll make your heart sing. |
| Biokovo Mountain | Biokovo’s a beast, but the views from St. Jure peak? It’s totally worth the burn. You might even see Italy on a clear day! |
| Mosor Mountain | A stone’s throw from Split, Mosor’s a hit with locals. The vistas? Split and the Dalmatian islands are looking fine. |
| Island of Brač | Brač is where culture meets hiking—Trek to Vidova gora, drop by Blaca Monastery, and time-travel through the island’s history. |
| Bat Mountain, Kijevo | In the heart of Dalmatia, Bat Mountain’s trails offer a chance to brush shoulders with deer and gawk at panoramic views of Dalmatia’s finest peaks. |
This guide features some of Croatia’s best hiking routes for beginners, as well as longer, more demanding routes for experienced hikers.
1. Hiking Plitvice Lakes Loop
Located halfway between Zagreb and Zadar, Plitvice Lakes is one of the country’s most popular national parks. This UNESCO-recognized natural feature comprises beautiful woodlands, spectacular views, gorgeous waterfalls, and approximately 16 interconnected lakes.
The wider region is home to wildlife such as deer, wild boar, and smaller mammals, while large predators like bears live deep in remote Velebit areas and are not present in visitor zones.
The hike starts near Entrance 1. It will then take you on a tour of all the bigger lakes in this loop. You will also come across several beautiful waterfalls along the way.
Some longer routes in the park pass near the Gustav Janeček Memorial, though the memorial is not on the standard visitor loop. Swimming is strictly prohibited anywhere within Plitvice Lakes National Park and is actively enforced with fines.
Due to its popularity among hikers, there’s a high likelihood you’ll encounter crowds. To minimize such issues, hitting the trail as early as possible, probably around 7 am to 8 am, will be highly advisable.
There are several hotels near Entrance 2, and a campground if you plan to stay overnight.
Also, you can explore several other trails in this area, especially if you are a seasoned hiker. But, if you are a beginner or have never been in this area before, this loop is the most recommended. The best part is that you will have finished traversing it in three to four hours.
- Trail length: 12km
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Hiking time: Approximately 3 to 4 hours
- How to get there: Rental car, bus, or private transfer
This is one of the best options for easy hiking in Croatia, especially for first-time visitors.
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2. Velebit Hiking Trail
The most popular multi-day route in Velebit is the Premužić Trail, a well-marked long-distance hiking route of approximately 57 kilometers.
You will hike through small rural towns, rugged peaks (monolithic rocks and cliffs called kukovi in Croatian), resilient beech forests, and rolling green hills. Also, you will have an opportunity to spend your nights in mountain huts spread along the way.
However, the apace iavailable n these mountain huts is limited. Therefore, please book well in advance.
It’s worth mentioning that this hike is quite demanding. Make sure you pack enough food in your hiking backpack. You should also remember to pack appropriate hiking gear, as you will be on the trail for several days.
The entire trail is adequately maintained and easy to follow. Also, it’s clearly marked. Hence, no bushwhacking will be needed. You can begin your hike in Babic Sica, the trail’s information center.
You can hike up to the Zavizan hut in a few hours. Once you are there, you will have ample time to explore the nearby peaks.
One of the summit peaks is Kiza, on top of which man is the size of an ant. After just a short climb, partly with the help of a cable, you reach the summit. The view from here is breathtaking, but it is not the only one; there is a whole series of peaks.
Some peaks along the trail are reachable by hiking trails, while others remain in the silence of Velebit. Bačića Kuk, seen from the north, is the first and highest of the cliffs in the string of peaks: Kukaline, Butinovaća, Kiza, Grabar, Ljubičko Brdo, to name a few of the most striking in a nearly ten-kilometer-long sequence.
The best time to hike this trail is during the summer. During this time, the weather is stable and friendlier. Northern Velebit National Park charges an entrance fee that typically ranges from €6 to €10, depending on season and access point.
- Trail length: 100 km
- Estimated hiking time: 9 days
- Level: Hard to moderate
- How to get there: Bus
3. Best Easy Walk With Views In Dubrovnik
This is a paid walk along the Dubrovnik City Walls rather than a traditional hiking trail.
It offers breathtaking views of the old town, church towers, rooftops, lanes, and stunning cliffs. Accessible year-round, this loop trail is primarily used for hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching.
In addition to the beautiful views you will see along the way, this trail is popular for its easy access. Also, it’s not challenging. Anyone in excellent physical condition can complete it in two hours or less, depending on pace.
You can start or end your hike at the Gate of Pile, the old town’s main entrance. It is advisable to walk this trail early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when conditions are more favorable. Additionally, these are the best times to hike if you want to avoid crowds.
If you are staying around Dubrovnik, you should include this hike in your itinerary. It will provide an excellent way to exercise while enjoying stunning views along the way.
- Trail length: 1.9 km
- Difficulty level: Easy
- Hiking duration: 1.5-2 hours
- How to get there: Car, bus, or flight
4. Via Dinarica White Trail For Experienced Hikers
The Via Dinarica is a long-distance hiking network established in the 2010s and now well known among experienced hikers.
It runs from southern Slovenia to northern Albania. You can choose to tackle the entire trail or just a section, depending on your hiking experience and how long you will be there. But it’s filled with spectacular views every mile along the way.
If you are a seasoned hiker and have the time to spare, you can tackle the entire trail. It connects all the most beautiful sections of the Dinaric Alps. Additionally, it connects some of the country’s most beautiful mountain regions.
Besides the White Trail, you can also opt to tackle the Blue Trail (mountain trail) or the Green Trail (forest trail), depending on your preferences.
As mentioned earlier, this trail is relatively new. Hence, some sections along the way are poorly marked and badly maintained. But, as long as you have a reliable GPS and a well-detailed map, you are good to go.
Remember to bring your camera; you will have plenty of opportunities to capture memorable, beautiful photos.
- Trail length: The total length across all countries is approximately 2,000 km, with the duration depending on the sections chosen.
- Difficulty level: Hard
- How to get there: Bus or car
Some sections of the Via Dinarica can be hiked independently without a car, using local transport and mountain huts along the route.
5. Milna Coastal Walk
You should check out the Milna Coastal Walk if you love hiking in coastal areas and sandy beaches. This trail is located on Hvar Island, one of Croatia’s best coastal getaways. Hvar Island is a short distance from Split. A ferry ride will get you there in under two hours.
Thousands of hikers come here yearly to savor the region’s hidden beaches, gorgeous seas, and rugged Dalmatian coast. The trail starts at the harbor based in Hvar Town. You will then follow a paved coastal walkway to Mustado Bay. This walk should take approximately 30 minutes. There’s an eatery along the way where you can stop to refuel. There’s also a beach along the trail, where you can take a quick dip.
From Mustado Bay, the trail becomes increasingly rugged, occasionally shifting between the Adriatic coast and the woodland. The trail will take you through forests, beaches, and bays. After around 20 minutes, you will come across a bay, where you can go for a swim and relax. There’s also an eatery, which doubles as a bar and restaurant. Eventually, you will find yourself at Milna.
- Trail length: 7 km
- Hiking duration: 2 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- How to get there: Ferry or high-speed ship
This is one of the best examples of coastal hiking in Croatia, combining sea views with accessible terrain.
6. Plješivica Mountain Hike
If you are an experienced hiker looking for a hiking trail that will stretch you to your limits, then you should check out the Plješivica hiking trail. The entire course features rocky terrain, which is quite challenging. Hence, make sure you come with a comfortable pair of hiking boots. It would be best also to consider bringing a pair of walking poles.
Most sections of this trail run through dense forests that provide adequate shade. Therefore, it will be an ideal hike for those hot summer months. As the trail nears the end, you will come across an old military facility, which is quite impressive.
The views along this trail are nothing short of spectacular. Additionally, the trail ends near Croatia’s border with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Hence, you will also enjoy striking views of rolling landscapes and lush green forests in both countries.
- Trail length: 12 km
- Hiking duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- How to get there: Train, bus, or taxi
Some sections near the former Željava Air Base remain restricted or require local guidance; hikers should stick strictly to marked trails due to historical mine risk in unmaintained areas.
7. Hiking Vidova Gora Trail
The Vidova Gora trail is yet another challenging trail. But it’s gratifying if you can manage to go the entire length. If you are hiking this trail in summer, ensure you carry adequate water and sun protection, as there’s minimal shade. Also, you should ensure you start your hike as early as possible to minimize sun exposure.
You will start your hike on a gravel road in the village of Bol. From there, the trail will take you through a rough mountain path, with lots of local sheep and wildflowers to keep you company.
The summit of the Vidova Gora mountain is simply spectacular. As the highest point on the Adriatic islands, it offers panoramic views of the entire Adriatic region, from the Adriatic Sea to the islands and the mainland.
- Trail length: Approximately 11 km
- Hiking duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Difficulty: Intermediate to difficult
- How to get there: Bus or private car
8. Mljet Island Hike Through
Mljet Island is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful islands in Croatia. It also provides a great hiking experience, and thanks to the spectacular views, it serves the entire route.
The trail runs from Sobra to Pomena. Depending on your hiking pace, you can cover the entire course within two days. Most sections of this trail run through lush, green forests. Therefore, you will be shielded from the scorching rays of the sun. You can also opt to climb to one of the summits if you are looking for scenic views.
Unlike other trails in this region, this one is easy to get onto. You board the ferry at Prapratno on the Pelješac Peninsula, which connects directly to Sobra on Mljet. Although this trail is relatively new, it’s well marked throughout.
One of the island’s best features is that more than 70% of its surface is covered by forest. You will be surrounded by nature wherever you look or go. There are many great short hikes you can explore. You can also visit the Odyssey’s Cave, which is popular with vacationers. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or not, this island is worth a visit.
- Length: 33 km
- Estimated hiking duration: 2 days
- Difficulty level: Moderate to advanced
- How to get there: Ferry
9. Vošac Peak Hike
The Vošac peak hike is one of Croatia’s most challenging hikes. The mountain is located in the Biokovo Nature Park, a popular hiking destination in Croatia. You will cross several paths, winding through the mountains and hills, with pine trees and olive groves.
The trail starts in Makarska, where the climb begins immediately. After approximately 5 to 6 hours of climbing, you will reach the peak and enjoy the beautiful views below. Most sections of this trail feature loose stones. Therefore, ensure you wear appropriate shoes.
As noted above, this hike is challenging. Therefore, ensure you come prepared. If you are not in good physical condition, it is advisable to explore other hiking options. Also, pack enough water, especially if you are hiking during the warm months.
- Hiking length: approximately 13–15 km round trip, depending on the route
- Hiking duration: 5 to 6 hours
- Difficulty: Hard
- How to get there: Car or bus
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10. Marjan Hill Trail
Location: Located in Split, Marjan Hill offers a mix of pine forests and coastal panoramas.
Distance: Approximately 8 km, this trail offers a diverse, refreshing hike and can be completed in 2 hours.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate. The well-maintained trail is suitable for hikers of varying fitness levels.
Highlights
Pine Forests: The trail winds through aromatic pine forests, providing a refreshing, fragrant backdrop for the hike. The shaded path offers a cool respite, especially on warmer days.
Coastal Views: As the trail ascends, hikers are treated to stunning coastal views over Split, the Adriatic Sea, and the surrounding islands.
Cultural Heritage: Marjan Hill holds historical and cultural significance, featuring a small chapel and the hermitage of Blaise the Hermit. These points add depth to the trail, connecting hikers with the island’s heritage.
Trail Experience
The Marjan Hill Trail is a versatile hike that caters to both nature lovers and those interested in cultural exploration.
Beginning near Hvar town, the trail immerses hikers in fragrant pine forests, offering a peaceful and serene start to the journey.
As the trail ascends, panoramic views of the coastline unfold, providing a perfect blend of natural beauty and coastal charm.
The cultural elements, including the chapel and hermitage, add a touch of history to the hike, allowing hikers to appreciate the island’s rich heritage.
Best Autumn Hike In Croatia: Dabarski Kukovi
The Dabarski Kukovi are among the most beautiful areas of Velebit, a mythical Croatian mountain whose ravines, meadows, and dense forests are home to bears and packs of wolves, and whose golden eagles patrol the area from high altitudes.
Treading the numerous beaten tracks, generations of mountaineers keep on rediscovering the charms of this mountain, which, it seems, they cannot get enough of. Most of the peaks of Velebit are mild grasslands, meadows, with only a stone cap on top, or are overgrown with forests. You can also see the Dabarski Kukovi – a realm of bare rock.
That of Hajdučki and Rožanski Kukovi perhaps rivals the ruggedness of Dabarski Kukovi. Still, nothing matches its monolithic status and the extent of its dominance over the surrounding environment.
Croatia Hiking FAQS
Is Croatia good for hiking?
Yes. Croatia offers a wide range of hiking experiences, from coastal walks and island climbs to challenging alpine routes in the Velebit and Biokovo, with well-marked trails and long hiking seasons.
Do you need permits to hike in Croatia?
Most hiking trails do not require permits. However, national parks and nature parks usually require an entrance ticket.
Is wild camping allowed in Croatia?
Wild camping is illegal in Croatia. Camping is permitted only at official campsites and designated mountain huts.
When is the best time to hike in Croatia?
The best months are April to June and September to October. Summer hiking is possible but requires early starts and heat awareness, especially in coastal and exposed areas.
Are hiking trails well-marked?
Most established trails are clearly marked with red-and-white mountaineering signs, particularly in national parks and popular mountain regions.
Can you hike independently in Croatia?
Yes. Independent hiking is common, though GPS navigation is recommended for longer or remote routes.
Are dogs allowed on hiking trails?
Dogs are generally allowed on trails but must be leashed in protected areas. National parks may have additional restrictions.
Are bears a danger to hikers?
Bears live in remote mountain regions such as the Velebit, but are extremely rare on hiking trails. Encounters are unlikely when staying on marked routes.
Hiking In Croatia – Wrapping It Up
As you can see, your options for hiking trails in Croatia are almost endless. You must choose a trail that best aligns with your hiking experience and personal preferences, pack the right gear, and hit the road. Happy hiking!
For first-time travelers deciding where to hike in Croatia, these routes cover the country’s most rewarding landscapes without requiring specialized alpine experience.
Amazing read! Inspired to explore Croatia’s trails myself now
Nice Article…! Keep posting more about Croatia please.
Exploring the stunning hiking trails in Croatia is a true adventure! As a fellow hiking enthusiast, I appreciate the valuable insights shared in this blog. Looking forward to trying a few more of these.
Are dogs allowed in hikes in Croatia?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on hikes in Croatia, but it’s important to be mindful of any specific regulations or restrictions in the area you plan to hike. Some national parks or nature reserves might have certain rules regarding pets, such as requiring them to be on a leash or restricting them from certain trails to protect local wildlife.
For sure the best hiking is in Hrvatska!
Thanks for sharing these beautiful hiking trails in Croatia! Great inspiration for planning my next adventure.
Croatia seems so boring for hikes, why bother?
This guide to hiking in Croatia is absolutely fantastic and incredibly inspiring! 🇭🇷 The way you’ve covered such a range of trails—from Plitvice Lakes and Velebit to coastal walks like Milna and island routes on Mljet and Brač—makes it easy for both beginners and seasoned hikers to find the perfect adventure.