Best Things To Do In Croatia In Winter (And Why You Should Go!)

Chasing the Donkey may include affiliate links - if you decide to make a purchase through these links, we receive a commission without any additional cost to you. Disclaimer & privacy policy.
Post author SJ

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

Hints and tips on things to do in Croatia in winter. From skiing and mandarin harvesting to strolling Christmas markets and visiting frozen waterfalls, there are many places to go in Croatia in winter.

Croatia Travel Blog_Things to do in Croatia_Best Things to do in Croatia in Winter

Croatia is one of the most popular summer holiday destinations for Europeans because they consider it cheaper than Greece or Italy.

It offers similar historical highlights and cultural events to the latter two countries, but in a more low-key manner (although Croatia is undoubtedly gaining popularity fast in recent years, especially for digital nomads).

The thing about Croatia, too, is that it is not only a fantastic summer destination, but Croatia in winter is magnificent as well. It’s often a more enjoyable experience to visit Croatia outside the peak summer months.

Visit Frozen Waterfalls

PLITVICE WINTER_ Winter in Croatia

While the beaches are the most popular destinations during the summer, tourists have other unique sites to see in the winter. A great example is the iconic lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park that freeze over during wintertime.

They are dreamy and astounding, just like a scene you might expect to see in Frozen. Plitvice Lakes National Park is open all year round and is one of Croatia’s star attractions.

As gorgeous (and busy) as the park is in summer, it’s magical and wonderfully serene in winter. A visit to a frozen-over Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most incredible things to do in Croatia in February, for example.

Go Skiing

Sljeme Croatia - Winter in Croatia

Does it snow in Croatia? You bet it does!

We’ve not yet had the pleasure of skiing in Croatia. Maybe when the Little Donkey is bigger? But Croatia, in winter, becomes an inexpensive place to ski. Head to the Mèdvednica mountain range (1000 meters of elevation), north of Zagreb, and one of Croatia’s top winter sports destinations. In addition to skiing, Croatia also offers fun tobogganing and sledding, which are super-popular among kids.

There are several different places in Croatia where you can enjoy winter sports, whether skiing, sledding, tobogganing, Nordic skiing, or ice skating. You can strap on the skis or skates at these top Croatia winter sports locations.

Sljeme Ski Resort

One of the top ski resorts in Croatia, the Sljeme Ski Resort, is located on Mèdvednica Mountain’s slopes in Mèdvednica Nature Park. Just 10 km from the Zagreb city center, it attracts locals and tourists alike.

The main event at this popular ski destination is the annual Snow Queen Trophy, a competition that’s part of the FIS Ski World Cup and occurs every January. Non-professional skiers and winter sports enthusiasts can also enjoy a variety of slopes and runs here. The resort has three lifts and five slopes: White Meadow, White Slope, Red Slope (the most difficult), Green Slope, and Blue Slope.

The Red Slope has a chairlift and is also equipped with an artificial snowmaker, which prolongs the skiing season. On the other hand, the White and Green slopes have T-bar lifts. Most pitches are gentle and suitable for children and those just learning how to ski. The Red and White slopes also have a lighting system, making it possible for skiers to enjoy skiing at night.

Platak Ski Resort

A popular destination throughout the whole year, Platak’s peak season is winter. Located just north of Rijeka and west of Risnjak National Park, this resort has been around since the mid-1960s, when its first ski lift was built.

The Platak Ski Resort is near the mountain towns of Snježnik and Risnja. Even though it’s only 10 km from the Croatian coast, snow does cover the area’s tall mountains for much of winter. Platak’s highest peak is Radeševo (1,363 meters above sea level), the ski resort’s longest and most famous trail. In addition to challenging skiing and snowboarding runs, several easier and gentler slopes are perfect for children and beginners.

There’s even a Baby Trail, equipped with a conveyor belt for kids and tubing and sledding slopes. As one of coastal Croatia’s best ski resorts, Platak is an excellent destination for everyone, from families with small children to recreational and even professional skiers and snowboarders. Non-skiers also visit the area simply to enjoy its gorgeous winter scenery.

Mukinje Ski Resort

Located near one of Croatia’s most famous natural attractions—Plitvice Lakes—the Mukinje Ski Resort sits about 700 meters above sea level and offers winter sports for various visitors. It is only 2.5 km from Plitvice Lakes National Park’s Entrance 2 and 5 km from Entrance 1. Experienced skiers, recreationists, beginners, and children can all enjoy the wintry beauty of this part of Croatia.

In addition to one ski lift with a capacity of 400 people per hour, there are several ski trails to choose from, all of which are about 400 meters long. The average slope gradient at Mukinje Ski Resort is only 15%, making this a suitable destination to learn how to ski or snowboard. Most slopes are also great for sleighing and sledding.

You can also rent all kinds of winter sports equipment at the resort. This includes snowboarding and skiing equipment, toboggan sleds, sleighs, and the incredibly fun snow saucers. Everything can be reserved in advance.

Čelimbaša Ski Resort

The Čelimbaša Ski Resort is in Mrkopalj, about 15 km from Delnice. Located at an elevation of 1,100 meters, its slopes start at 825 meters above sea level, while its drag lift is about 700 meters long and has a capacity of 600 skiers per hour.

This resort has three different ski trails, all of which have different lengths. The longest of the three, the Tourist Trail, is 1,400 meters long and has the gentlest grade. Tobogganing is possible here, too. The Sunny Trail is roughly 1,000 meters long, while the Black Path is 500 meters long and the ski resort’s steepest run.

So, if you’re looking for an alternative winter sports destination to the popular resorts of France, Italy, and Switzerland, consider visiting Croatia in winter.

Brands We Use And Trust

  

Visit Popular Destinations Without The Crowds

Winter in Croatia - Labin

Oh, but where to start – there are just so darn many. We made this list to help you choose a while back. But for the purpose of this post, let’s pick one – Trogir.

One of the prettiest small coastal towns in Dalmatia, Trogir, is an ancient stone town that gets overrun by tourists in summer. Located a quick drive from Split, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town makes for one of the top sights in Croatia in winter, just because it’s super-quiet this time of year. It’s that breathtaking.

Even though many stores and restaurants close for the season, a visit is still worth it. Perhaps even more so just because of that. Like Dubrovnik to the south, Trogir returns to its authentic self in winter. Locals come out, and tourists stay away, offering a more “real” experience of wandering the streets by yourself. This is when you can start a conversation with locals much more easily than in summer when the town is super-crowded and everyone’s more stressed.

Spend the morning sipping coffee at the main square, surrounded by locals, and the rest of the day wandering about the stone core of the town and along its stunning harbor.

Oh, and if being frozen is not your thing, you can chase the winter sun here.

Experience The Dubrovnik Winter Festival

Fort St. John_Dubrovnik__shutterstock_253784749
Fort St. John

The Dubrovnik Winter Festival is the wintry counterpart of the super-popular Dubrovnik Summer Festival. Providing tons of fun for young and old, this multi-day festival runs from Advent into the New Year. This cultural feast features various events and loads of entertainment all across the Dubrovnik Old Town and beyond. There are Christmas concerts and other musical performances, New Year’s parties for children and adults, and endless food and merriment.

The Dubrovnik Advent and Christmas Markets are part of the Winter Festival, one of the most fun events in Croatia in December, but are worth discussing separately. Several stalls line Stradun, the Old Town’s main street, selling everything from handicrafts, toys, and Christmas tree decorations to mulled wine and cakes. Of course, everything is lit up magically by thousands of twinkling lights, creating an atmosphere unlike any other season.

Best of all, visiting off-season means skipping the summer crowds so you can make the most of your time in the city!

Stroll Advent & Christmas Markets

Advent-in-Zagreb_Grič-Tunnel_Zagreb-TZ
Advent in Zagreb: Photo Credit: Zagreb TZ

Some of our best memories of Croatia are from the Advent festivities in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital. Christmas and Advent markets spring up all over the country in December, from Zagreb to Zadar, from Split to Dubrovnik. Indeed, this is the most magical time of the year, and we can’t imagine a more atmospheric month for a Croatia vacation than this.

So, think again if you only think of Croatia as a beach destination. The country has much more to offer, even during winter. Head to Trg Bana Jelacica, where you’ll see an enormous ice skating rink at the ready. After taking a twirl around the arena, head to the small markets to pick up last-minute handcrafted Christmas gifts.

If you ever need reasons to visit Croatia in winter, these glorious Christmas markets are one of the main ones.

Soak In Hot Springs

best-spas-of-slovenia-ptuj_slovenia-travel-blog
There’s no better way to escape the sometimes low temperature in Croatia in January than soaking in a natural hot tub. Another fabulous option when visiting Croatia in winter is one of its natural hot springs and, of course, the thermal spas built around them. The rates at these resorts are usually excellent during the off-season, so why not try them?

Most of the thermal spas in Croatia have been used since Roman times, so you might absorb some history while soaking up the mineral-rich hot waters. The thermal spas offer reasonably priced luxury accommodation during winter and will even throw in extra services!

Reputable spas include:

  • Sveti Martin na Muri
  • Tuhelj
  • Stubičke Toplice
  • Krapinske Toplice
  • Varaždinske Toplice
  • Daruvarske Toplice

Harvest Mandarins In Neretva

The Neretva Valley is known as the “garden of Dubrovnik” for good reasons. This verdant and fertile valley has been a fruit-growing region since as early as the 1400s, and now the orchards are busier and more productive than ever. It’s said that there are about 1.3 million mandarin seedlings in the valley, which explains the other nickname of the valley—the “mandarin valley.”

The mandarin harvesting season starts in the fall but runs well into the winter. It makes for a fantastic day trip from Dubrovnik in winter, an ideal activity to stock up on vitamin C before the coldest winter days arrive. Even if you’re visiting Croatia in December, you can still head over and grab some fresh citrus fruit.

Go To The Beach

Best Restaurants In Dubrovnik_Hotel Kompas view (1)

Okay, it is winter in Croatia, but that doesn’t mean a beach visit is out of the question. Although Croatia’s winter temperatures might be too low for a swim or afternoon of sunbathing, winter days can still be delightful in Croatia.

On a sunny winter day, you can easily pull up a chair on the beach and soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of the gorgeous Adriatic Sea or pass a few hours with a good book.

On top of that, the huge summer crowds are nowhere to be seen in winter. Being on the beach in Croatia with only a few other people present, how often is that possible in Croatia nowadays?

Attend Events & Carnivals

Croatian Cultutre_TZ_ Festivity of St. Blaise, Patron Saint of Dubrovnik
Croatian Culture: St. Blaise. Photo Credit – Croatian Tourist Board

Dubrovnik is one of the preferred destinations for locals and tourists alike. During the New Year’s season, the city has a mild climate, and if you pair it with some alcohol and happiness, you have a party going on in the streets until dawn.

In February, the Pearl of the Adriatic celebrates its patron saint, Saint Blaise, an older man who carries the city in the palm of his hand and whose statues decorate city walls and entrances. This day for the City of Dubrovnik was celebrated for the first time in 972.

Winter in Dubrovnik is fantastic for many reasons, including the low accommodation rates! Snap up a bargain in the usually expensive city.

Hit Up A Museum

Museum Night is traditionally held in winter, around late January. Also, in Croatia, winter is the “Night Of The Museums.” It is a nationwide event where museums are open long after their usual hours, attracting visitors keen to see and feel Croatia’s culture and history. Entry is FREE, and museums usually organize their own special night performances to make your visit even more interesting.

Carnival Time

Things to do in Croatia_Carnival in Croatia_Riječki Carnival
Photo Credit: Riječki Carnival

Speaking of January, if you are in Croatia at this time of the year, you might want to attend the Rijeka Carnival, one of the largest carnival festivals in Europe. Concerts, exhibitions, masquerades, and parties follow the ceremonial handing over of the city’s keys to the Master of the Carnival, leading to a large international masked festival in February.

Sample Traditional Croatia Winter Food

Starigrad Paklenica Velebit photo jeep safari fritule - Chasing the Donkey
Freshly Made Fritule Are Always Made For Christmas In Croatia

Few things are as enjoyable as finishing a chilly day of sightseeing with a hearty local dish. And it’s no secret that Croatians are very fond of their cuisine. In summer, it’s delightful to sample fish and seafood on a terrace overlooking the Adriatic Sea, but winter has its very own culinary delights, too.

Christmas time, especially, is a magnificent time for foodies to visit Croatia. Christmas markets boast countless stalls selling local sweets and treats, while restaurants serve traditional winter food such as bakalar, bean soup, kupus, and a wide range of stews prepared over an open fire.

So, spend your day wandering around a historic town center (without the crowds, of course) or participating in a fun outdoor activity before kicking back next to a crackling fire with a glass of Croatian wine and some hearty, soul-warming, and belly-filling food.


Celebrate Valentine’s Day In Croatia With Your Other Half

February 14, the global day of love, falls in the middle of winter. And guess what? Croatia is an incredible place to visit for romantic getaways, intimate seaside dinners, couple’s activities, and much more, even in February.

Winter in Croatia has lots to offer to couples. Thanks to the country’s stunning old cities, such as Zadar, Split, Trogir, and Dubrovnik, you’ll have plenty of choices for a Valentine’s Day destination. Enjoy amazing winter sunsets, soak in hot springs, pamper yourself with a spa treatment, and indulge in mouthwatering Croatian food...

Have you ever been to Croatia in winter? What would you add to this list?

Why Should You Travel To Croatia In Winter?

You might have Croatia down in your mind as a summer place destination (well, it is fab then!). Instead, you really should think about traveling to Croatia in the ‘off-season. In Summer, as the temperatures rise, so do the crowds. Dramatically.

Before you shake your head, think about it. Lower prices, fewer crowds, and you can take in a much slower, chilled-out way of life.

If you need a little more persuasion on why you should travel to Croatia out of the regular tourist season, let’s explore a little more.

Croatia in Winter Time is Peaceful

Summertime means crowds – on some days, it’s unbearable. Especially the crowds in Dubrovnik, it can so pack in Dubrovnik during the summer months that it can make walking the city walls almost impossible. However, there are far fewer tourists during the winter, so you can visit the top spots without crowds getting in your way. The overall result is peace and quiet, and it’s a much slower and more enjoyable way of life!

There is also less traffic on the roads, so hiring a car and exploring on your own steam is much easier too.

Cheaper Accommodation, And More Choice

While some hotels close for the typical end-of-season time, that doesn’t mean they all do. This can leave you with more choices at lower prices. It’s not unusual to find four or five-star hotels with cut-price deals during the winter months so that you can enjoy the peace and quiet in luxurious surroundings!

WHERE TO STAY IN CROATIA IN WINTER

The Weather is Still Very Mild!

Winter doesn’t mean freezing temperatures and snow across Croatia, well, at least not all of it anyway. The Adriatic Coastline is very mild during the winter months. The climate is the Mediterranean, so that means hot, dry summers and mild winters. Okay, it might rain, but it’s certainly not going to be a washout.

Sitting on the beach and reading a book in the sun is perfectly doable. You might even be able to swim if you’re visiting around October and are down south.

Christmas and New Year Festivities Are Great

Advent festivities are taking place across the country and at New Year, too. Experiencing the festive season in a different country will show you a different culture and customs too. The food is also delicious this time of year, with many festive treats.

These are just a few of the best reasons to head to Croatia during wintertime. Exploring at your own pace, in total quiet, will show you the best of this beautiful country.

So, come and spend the winter in Croatia. I promise you won’t regret it!

MORE CROATIA TRAVEL BLOGS

Comments (11)

  1. Hey There,
    I really want to appreciate the way to write this article.
    It seems that you are very professional and intelligent on Croatia.

  2. Tours are available of the most popular sites in Croatia, including the Jewish Heritage tour that discusses over 33,000 years of Croatian Jewish history.
    Tourists can also see all of Korcula Town’s medieval architecture, with its stone houses and hodge-podge placement. Or tourists can visit Split for Roman ruins and beautiful churches.
    If you are looking for more heaters for your vacation experience it is recommended to visit Dubrovnik where temperatures are still high despite the time of year. For the winter months, there is plenty to do in Croatia!
    What is your favorite thing about Croatia? Share below!

  3. How about a visit to one of the world’s most beautiful cemeteries, Miragoj in Zagreb, on All Saints Day ( November 1st) It is one of the most atmospheric things you will ever do.

  4. Oh wow, I’ve never heard of Croatia’s thermal spas. If I were there during winter time that would be the first place I visit. Also love the idea of Museum Night’s extended hours and special events.

  5. Mmmmm… a snow-covered national park or a thermal bath? How about one of each? Croatia looks wonderful in all seasons!

  6. I’m not surprised that Croatia is just as beautiful and offers unique attractions for visitors in winter. You had me at hot springs and frozen waterfalls. How neat will it be to see those. I love the idea of Museum Night. It’s such a great way to be educated while staying warm. :)

  7. SJ, I have not been to Croatia in winter, but I’m sure it’s gorgeous then too! A thermal bath sounds especially good right now! Thanks for linking up with Weekend Travel Inspiration!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Move This Adventure To Your Inbox & Get An Instant Freebie

Subscribe To Unlock Your FREE Customizable Travel Packing List & All Our Best Tips!