Backpacking Croatia On A Budget: Ultimate Guide (2024)
Backpacking Croatia is a fantastic way to discover this beautiful country on a budget and have fun while doing it.
I was born and raised in Croatia, and it took some time before I fully appreciated the sheer beauty and diversity of activities in Croatia.
Once I started traveling around Croatia, it quickly became one of my top countries to backpack in Europe.
From stunning waterfalls of Plitvice lakes to charming seafront towns along the Dalmatian coast and beautiful beaches, Croatia will win you over in no time!
Let’s plan your backpacking trip to Croatia!
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Is Croatia a good backpacking destination?
Croatia is a great backpacking destination and one of the most diverse European countries.
This small coastal country offers endless activities for backpackers and young travelers looking to combine a sightseeing trip with a lively nightlife destination.
While the prices in Croatia increased in the past several years, you can still visit on a budget, stay in hostels, and enjoy many free activities.
PROS:
- Diverse: I’m willing to argue that Croatia is one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, you have beaches, mountains, charming old towns…
- Lively: If you visit in the summer you can enjoy lively nightlife, with plenty of activities to keep you entertained
- Hostels: You’ll find many hostels to stay in and meet other travelers
- Safe for solo travelers: I grew up in Croatia and never felt scared walking alone at night
CONS:
- Transportation: Croatia has no high-speed train, and travel times can be very long along the coastline
- Seasonal: Croatian coastline and islands are very seasonal, so it can feel deserted in the winter and overcrowded in the summer
- Pricey: Croatia is no longer a budget travel destination, and prices are quite similar to average European prices
Backpacking Croatia Itinerary
Croatia is a small country with so many cool things to see and do that it might seem hard to craft the perfect itinerary.
You’d need at least three weeks to see everything the country has to offer, but you can cover the main highlights in a week or two.
With 2 weeks in Croatia, you’ll see the best of the Croatian coast, the capital, and iconic cities like Split and Dubrovnik.
If it’s your first time in Croatia, I’d follow this Croatia backpacking route for a dynamic and diverse adventure.
- DAY 1 Zagreb
- DAY 2 Zagreb
- DAY 3 Rijeka
- DAY 4 Pula
- DAY 5 Pula
- DAY 6 Rovinj daytrip
- DAY 7 Zadar
- DAY 8 Zadar
- DAY 9 Split
- DAY 10 Split
- DAY 11 Hvar
- DAY 12 Hvar
- DAY 13 Dubrovnik
- DAY 14 Dubrovnik
This itinerary is completely customizable, and you can spend more or less time in every region.
If you have more time in the country, or you don’t want to visit Dubrovnik in the peak season (I completely understand when you check prices in Dubrovnik), you can add more islands to your itinerary and smaller coastal towns.
If you want to get off the beaten track, you should consider visiting eastern Croatia too!
Croatia Backpackers Bucket List
So, what are some of the best things to do in Croatia for backpackers? There are so many reasons to visit Croatia!
1. Explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town
Dubrovnik is the best-known place in Croatia and for a good reason!
Strolling the cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town feels like stepping back in time.
For the ultimate experience, you can walk Dubrovnik City Walls, but even without paying the entrance fee, you can feel the magic of this city.
Another fun way to experience the city for backpackers is on a Dubrovnik kayak tour! If you opt for a sunset tour you get a bonus romantic activity.
2. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice Lakes is one of the most impressive landscapes in the country, and worth a detour into continental Croatia.
I visited the Lakes several times in different seasons, and I loved it every time I went! The waterfalls are simply mesmerizing year-round.
3. See the Ancient Amphitheater in Pula
You’ll see many Roman ruins throughout Croatia, but the Ancient Amphitheater in Pula is easily the best one!
Visiting the Arena is one of the best things to do in Pula, and I’d say our amphitheater is better than the one in Rome.
The amphitheater is also a popular event venue, so you can elevate your experience and visit during the Pula Film Festival and watch a movie inside the amphitheater.
4. Watch the Most Beautiful Sunset in Zadar
There are so many reasons to visit Zadar, and watching one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world is at the top of the list.
Sunset in Zadar is one of the most unique experiences. You’ll head to the art installation Greeting to the Sun, sit along the sea, and listen to the music of nature from the Sea Organ.
5. Stroll the Cobblestone Streets of Rovinj
The small coastal town of Rovinj is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Croatia.
From the winding cobblestone streets to the picture-perfect seafront promenade, it is well worth taking a day trip from Pula to Rovinj.
6. Admire the View from Biokovo Skywalk
I love hiking and I could suggest a dozen cool hiking trails in Croatia! However, you can enjoy the stunning mountaintop views in Croatia even without actually hiking.
Biokovo Skywalk is one of the newer additions to the tourist attractions in Croatia, and definitely one of the most unique!
7. Kayak Along the Coastline
Kayaking quickly became the most popular way to explore the Croatian coastline, and you can join kayak tours in nearly every coastal city.
I used to work with kayak tours in Pula, and the area is fantastic for kayaking. Also, you can’t miss kayaking along Dubrovnik City Walls.
8. Sail the Dalmatian Coast
Taking about bucket list experiences, it doesn’t get much better than sailing along the Dalmatian coast.
Whether you’re splashing out for a yacht week in Croatia, or hopping on a quick sailing tour from Zadar or any other coastal town, you’ll love it!
9. Party at One of the Summer Festivals
If you’re looking for the best summer festivals, it’s safe to say that Croatia has some of the best ones.
I went to many music festivals throughout the years, and I can tell you there’s something for everyone.
From the popular iNmusic Festival in Zagreb to the insane Ultra Music Festival in Split, I’m sure you can find one you like!
10. Go Wine Tasting in Istria, Dalmatia, or Slavonia
Did you know there are several wine regions in Croatia?
Whether your itinerary takes you to Istria, Dalmatia, or Slavonia, you can visit regional vineyards and indulge in wine tasting.
If you’re not a wine drinker, Croatia is also renowned for olive oil production and lavender fields.
11. Experience Diocletian’s Palace in Split
Split is the biggest coastal town in Croatia and one of the best places to visit in the country.
You’ll get to admire the well-preserved Roman architecture of Diocletian’s Palace, stunning sea views, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife.
12. Enjoy Traditional Croatian Cuisine
As a Croatian who has lived abroad for most of my adult life, I need to emphasize how flavourful Croatian food is!
Croatian traditional cuisine is very meat-heavy, with an emphasis on fish along the coast.
However, even as a vegan in Croatia, you’ll be impressed by local fruits and veggies and traditional dishes like soparnik.
13. Discover Charming Towns
Unless you have a month in Croatia it will be hard to visit all the charming towns scattered throughout the country.
Unfortunately, it’s hard to reach some of the scenic villages without a car. For example, you’ll need to rent a car or join a tour to see hilltop villages in Istria.
14. Go White Water Rafting In Cetina Canyon
Adventure lovers shouldn’t miss out on white water rafting in Cetina Canyon. Rapids in the area range from grade 3 rapids to grade 5 after heavy rainfall.
Don’t worry if you can’t swim – you’ll get a life jacket and a helmet to keep you safe. You’ll be in a boat with around 5 other people, and it is great fun!
You can enjoy this activity on a day trip from Split!
Best Hostels In Croatia
You’ll find a wide selection of hostels in Croatia, which is perfect for solo travelers who want to meet other travelers and make friends.
Make sure to check if the hostel has an age limit, as there are several party and youth hostels with 18-40 age limits.
Best Zagreb Hostels
- Swanky Mint: The best hostel in the city center of Zagreb
- Whole Wide World Hostel: Best party hostel in Zagreb
- Mali Mrak Hostel: Artistic hostel, popular for its homey atmosphere
Best Rijeka Hostels
- HI Hostel Rijeka: The best hostel in Rijeka, affordable and great location
Best Pula Hostels
- Crazy House Hostel: The best hostel in Pula in a great location
- Ricardo Team Hostel: Best beachfront hostel in Pula
- Hostel Antique: Great hostel in the city center of Pula
Best Split Hostels
- Gravitas Hostel: Perfect hostel for solo female travelers, clean, and safe
- Fiesta Siesta: Social hostel in the heart of the Old Town
- Backpackers Fairytale: Fun backpacker hostel just outside the Old Town
Best Zadar Hostels
- Downtown Boutique Hostel: A beautiful hostel in the heart of the Old Town, but no organized activities
- Lazy Monkey Hostel: Social hostel, short walk outside the Old Town
Best Dubrovnik Hostels
- Old Town Hostel: Beautiful boutique hostel in the Old Town of Dubrovnik
- Hostel Lina: Budget-friendly hostel, about a 20-minute walk from the Old Town
Best Time To Visit Croatia
The best time to visit Croatia as a backpacker is May, June, September, and October.
It is the shoulder season in Croatia, so you can avoid the crowds while enjoying the nice weather.
Of course, summer is the most popular time to visit Croatia for a reason. It is the most lively period to see the coast and the islands, and you’ll experience the best of Croatian summer.
The downside of backpacking in Croatia in summer is the prices. Everything is significantly more expensive – from accommodation to food and activities.
You’d have to take a look at your backpacking Europe budget and decide if it is worth it for you.
Winter in Croatia can be a good time to visit certain places, but it is not the most popular.
Zagreb is home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe, so it is worth visiting in December. Also, Plitvice Lakes, which are covered in snow during winter, are magical!
However, January and February can be wet and cold throughout the country.
Getting Around Croatia
The cheapest way to get to Croatia
Flying is the cheapest way to get to Croatia unless you’re coming from one of the neighboring countries.
Croatia has several airports served by budget airlines, but except for Zagreb, they operate only from April to October.
If you’re traveling to Croatia in winter, flying to Zagreb is your only option.
Some of the most popular coastal airports to fly into are Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, and Pula.
You could choose to fly into Pula or Dubrovnik, and then go on a coastal road trip and fly from the other.
✈️ Find the cheapest flights to Croatia here!
How to get around Croatia
You don’t need to rent a car to get around Croatia. Public transport is reliable and frequent, and you can reach every tourist destination by bus or train.
Buses in Croatia
Buses are the most common way to get around Croatia without a car.
I studied in Zagreb while my family lived in Pula, so I used to take a bus at least once a month to travel home for five years.
Buses in Croatia are quite affordable, as there are many companies you can choose from.
If you look at the map, you’ll notice Croatia has quite an unusual shape.
That shape doesn’t help with the ease of getting around, so you’ll often have to transfer to Zagreb when traveling long distances.
As there are many different operators, you can browse timetables and book tickets on Omio.
I sometimes book my tickets directly at the bus station, especially for a return trip, but it is not necessary as the apps work great too!
Trains in Croatia
Rail travel is not equally developed throughout the country. If you’re Interrailing Europe, you should keep in mind there are no trains along the coastline.
As I grew up on the coast, the first time I took a train in Croatia was when I was 17!
On the other hand, trains are quite a common way to get around in northern Croatia.
Croatia only recently started to invest in improving its railways, so nowadays you can even take a train from Zagreb to Split.
Domestic flights
Theoretically, you could also take flights, but it is not a very common way to get around.
Domestic flights are the easiest way to get to Dubrovnik from Zagreb or Pula, but they can get quite pricey.
Ferries in Croatia
Croatia has a long coastline with many islands, so you won’t be surprised that taking a ferry is sometimes the best way to travel.
You can take a ferry even for some routes you might not have thought of – for example, traveling from Pula to Zadar!
Ferry schedules are quite affected by seasonality, so you’ll have the most options in the summer. Most lines only operate in the summer.
If you’re going to the islands, you’ll need to take a ferry, as just 5 Croatian islands are connected by a bridge to the mainland.
Book your ferry tickets well in advance in the summer!
Public transport
Every larger city in Croatia has affordable and reliable public transport.
Zagreb is the largest city and the one you can get around by bus or tram. Other cities have local buses, bigger cities will have more frequent lines.
However, you’ll notice that many Croatian cities are walkable, and as long as you stay around the city center you won’t even need public transport.
Croatia Backpacking Budget
So, how much money do you need for backpacking Croatia?
Croatia is not a cheap beach destination anymore. The prices in Croatia increased in the past several years, especially since the introduction of the euro.
On average, you should budget 40-100€ per day for a trip to Croatia.
- Hostels: 30-50€ per night
- Food: 10-20€ per day
- Drinks: 0-15€ per day
- Transportation: 0-20€ per day
- Activities: 0-50€ per day
Hostels will be your biggest expense, and you can’t do much about the price. Most hostels in Croatia are 30-50€ per night.
The most popular party hostels on the coast are closer to 50€, compared to hostels in Zagreb which are around 30€.
An average meal out in Croatia will cost you around 15€, coffee will be around 4€, and one scoop of ice cream is 3€.
You can save money by buying food in a supermarket and cooking yourself, or going for a quick snack in one of many bakeries around.
Drinking budget is so personal, so I’ll let you figure out that part for yourself. Generally, you’ll have to pay around 4€ for a draft beer and 10-15€ for a cocktail.
Some of the best things to do in Croatia are free, but you still might want to visit some paid attractions.
None of the tourist attractions in Croatia are more than 50€, even the famous city walls in Dubrovnik or Plitvice Lakes.
Think about what attractions you’d want to see, check the prices, and plan your budget accordingly!
Is Croatia safe for solo female travelers?
I grew up in Croatia and lived most of my life in the country and I never felt unsafe. From walking alone at night to taking early and late buses, Croatia is one of the safest countries in Europe.
Still, I studied law so I’m aware that crimes happen. As a solo female traveler, it is best to avoid unnecessarily dangerous situations as you would in your own country too!
You’ll notice certain areas of Croatia have a big drinking culture, especially islands and summer festivals. Pay attention to your drink and know your limits if you’re going out as a solo traveler.
Final Thoughts: Croatia Backpacking Guide
Croatia is a fantastic backpacking destination, with a fun backpacking route to follow.
This diverse country boasts an incredible coastline, stunning National Parks, and charming seafront towns.
It’s no wonder so many summer movies were filmed here because Croatia is truly an ideal European summer destination.
Backpackers will love the large selection of hostels, events, and free activities to enjoy in Croatia.
Yes, I’m from Croatia, but I’m not being biased when I say that Croatia is one of my favorite European countries to backpack.
Now that you know Croatia is worth adding to your backpacking itinerary, it’s time to start planning your itinerary with my in-depth Croatia travel guides!
