Where To Stay In Croatia For A Week? My Favorite Places!

I love fast-paced trips where I stay in a different city every day and get to experience an entire country. However, sometimes I also travel to relax and want to pick a nice rental and make a small coastal village my home for an entire holiday. 

That’s what got me thinking about where to stay in Croatia for a week. 

As a Croatian, I’ve travelled all over the country, and I know it can be hard to pick a base. The places on this list are interesting to visit on their own and make a great base to explore the surrounding area.

Let’s get started with the best places to stay in Croatia for a week!

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Best Place To Stay In Croatia For A Week

I spent so many summers in Croatia, and staying in one place and exploring the surrounding area on day trips is often the best option. It’s especially helpful if you visit Croatia without a car!

Here are some of my favorite places to spend a week in Croatia, including why I love them and who they’re best for.

1. Split

Split is Croatia’s largest coastal town, and my number one suggestion for a place to stay for a week. 

I love Split as a holiday destination for several reasons. Firstly, it has an airport, making it easy to visit from all over Europe. The city is big, has public transport, and great connections to fun places in the area. Finally, there’s just a lot to do, whether you want to spend your days sightseeing, going out, or just relaxing by the sea.

What makes Split such a good base is how easy it is to go on day trips to some of the most popular places in Croatia. You can visit islands like Hvar or Brač, explore Trogir, go to Krka National Park, or even take a boat tour to the Blue Cave.

At the same time, Split itself has plenty to keep you busy for a week. You’ve got beaches within walking distance, amazing restaurants, and the Old Town built around Diocletian’s Palace, which is honestly one of the most impressive historical monuments in Croatia.

• TOP Pick: Apartments Lana Spalato
• Luxury Option: Dioklecijan Hotel & Residence

2. Dubrovnik

I’ve spent so many summers growing up in Dubrovnik, staying at my grandma’s house, that I think Dubrovnik is the perfect summer holiday destination. Don’t get me wrong, I know that Dubrovnik 15 years ago and today is not the same, but I’d still argue that you should totally spend a week in Dubrovnik if you can afford it.

Sure, Dubrovnik is expensive, be it hotels, food, or activities. It all adds up. But there is a way to do it on a budget, or at least not as expensive as you might think!

The trick is to visit during the shoulder season. As I’m writing this, I just came back from Dubrovnik, and it was absolutely stunning in late April. My friend is going to spend a week in the city in mid-May, and I’m so excited for her, as it’s truly one of the best times to be in the city.

So, why Dubrovnik? Besides the fact that it’s the most beautiful city in Croatia with stunning beaches, it’s also a great base for day trips and has international flights year-round. 

With a week in Dubrovnik, you can also visit Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina on a day trip, go on a sailing tour, hike Mount Srđ, spend a day on Lokrum, and much more!

• TOP Pick:  Apartments Beslema
• Luxury Option: Hotel Excelsior

3. Zadar

If you want a slightly less crowded alternative to Split or Dubrovnik, I don’t think you can go wrong with Zadar. I visited Zadar many times, with and without a car, and I think it works as a great base both ways. It’s ideally located in the center of the coastline, so you can reach it in under 4 hours from all over the country.

I found that Zadar offers the perfect balance of a summer vacation and sightseeing. It’s lively, but not overwhelming, and you still get that authentic coastal vibe without the constant crowds.

I love how easily you can explore the surrounding area on day trips. You’re close to some of Croatia’s best national parks, like Plitvice Lakes, Krka, and Paklenica. I’ve done Krka as a day trip from Zadar by car, but you can also join organized tours. Plus, there are so many nearby islands you can visit on boat trips from Zadar. 

And of course, you can’t talk about Zadar without mentioning the sunsets. I know it sounds cliché, but there’s a reason they have a monument dedicated to sunsets!

• TOP Pick: Three Pearls Deluxe Rooms & Studios
• Luxury Option: Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel 

4. Pula

Pula is one of those places that often gets overlooked, but I genuinely think it’s one of the best spots to stay in Croatia for a week.

I might be a bit biased here, as I’m from Pula and spent over 15 summers in the city. That basically means I had to learn how to have fun here. And trust me, there’s more to it than most people expect.

I know most people think about whether they should visit Istria or Dalmatia, so here’s why Istria might be the option for you. There’s a strong Italian influence, the food is incredible, and the whole region is perfect if you prefer a slightly slower, more relaxed type of holiday.

The best thing to do in Pula is definitely visiting the Roman amphitheater, which I think is even better than the one in Rome. But beyond that, you’ve got great local restaurants, a laid-back vibe, and easy access to some of the best spots in Istria.

One thing to keep in mind is that most tourists visit Pula with a car, and it honestly makes a big difference. The best beaches in Pula aren’t right in the city center, so having a car makes it much easier to explore places like Kamenjak or hidden coves along the coast.

• TOP Pick: Twins Amphitheatre Apartments  
• Luxury Option: Park Plaza Arena Pula

5. Rovinj

Pula is not the only option if you want to spend a week in Istria. Many of my friends who live in Zagreb spend their summers in Istria and choose Rovinj as their base. Honestly, I totally get it. If you compare Pula and Rovinj, Rovinj is definitely the prettier one.

I always recommend Rovinj to people who want a more romantic and slower-paced holiday. It’s not the place for big nightlife or packed itineraries; it’s more about long dinners, sunset walks, and swimming in quiet coves.

Another reason Rovinj works so well for a week-long stay is its location. It’s right in the center of the Istrian coastline, which makes it easier to explore inland spots like Motovun or Grožnjan, as well as other coastal towns.

Personally, I’d pick Rovinj for a romantic getaway year-round, but especially in late autumn and early spring. 

• TOP Pick: Casa Bachieri
• Luxury Option: Lone Hotel by Maistra Collection

6. Brač

Now, let’s talk about Croatian islands,  because sometimes you just want to escape civilization for a while.

With so many islands in Croatia, it can be surprisingly hard to pick the right one. And choosing to spend a full week on an island is a bit different, because you’re kind of committing to it. Sure, you can do day trips, but it’s not as flexible as staying on the mainland, so it’s important to pick a place that actually matches your vacation style.

Brač is one of the most popular islands in Croatia, and it’s popular for a reason.

It’s just a short ferry ride from Split, which makes it super easy to reach, even if you’re not renting a car. At the same time, it feels much more relaxed than the mainland.

Brač is best known for Zlatni Rat, one of the most famous beaches in Croatia, but there’s a lot more to the island than just that. You’ve got charming towns, hiking opportunities, and plenty of quieter spots if you want to avoid crowds.

I’d recommend staying in Bol if you want to be close to the action, or Supetar if you prefer something more low-key and well-connected.

• TOP Pick: Villa Mirta
• Luxury Option: Lifestyle Hotel Vitar

7. Mljet

If you’re the kind of person who gets bored just lying on a beach all day, Mljet might be your perfect island.

It’s one of the most underrated islands in Croatia, and I’d especially recommend it to adventure lovers or anyone who wants a more active, nature-focused holiday.

A big part of the island is actually a national park, with saltwater lakes, forests, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in Croatia. It’s the kind of place where you’ll naturally end up hiking, biking, or kayaking rather than just sitting still.

There’s not a huge amount of nightlife or typical tourist attractions, but that’s exactly why people love it. Mljet feels peaceful, unspoiled, and a bit removed from the rest of the coast.

If you want a week where you’re constantly outdoors and surrounded by nature, this is a great pick.

• TOP Pick: PERLA
• Luxury Option: Pine Tree Boutique Apartments

8. Korčula

Korčula is perfect if you’re looking for that classic Croatian island feel with a strong dose of history.

When I first visited Korčula, I was so confused, as it looked exactly like Dubrovnik! The old town is full of narrow stone streets, historic buildings, and that unique coastal vibe Croatia is known for.

At the same time, if you visit outside the peak summer months, it feels much more relaxed and less crowded than Dubrovnik, which makes it ideal for a week-long stay. 

You can spend your days exploring beaches, visiting nearby islands, or just wandering around the old town and stopping for long meals by the water. There are also some great wineries on the island, which adds to the whole experience.

If you want a proper Croatian island vibe with history, scenery, and just enough to do, Korčula is a really solid choice.

• TOP Pick: Apartments Viva
• Luxury Option: Aminess Younique Heritage Hotel

9. Krk

Finally, if you’re traveling on a budget or just want something easy and convenient, Krk is a great option.

It’s one of the most accessible islands in Croatia, since it’s connected to the mainland by a bridge and it has an airport. That means no ferry costs, no waiting around, and a lot more flexibility when planning your trip.

I visited Krk and really liked it, especially the old town, which has that classic coastal charm. The whole island actually feels a bit like an extension of Rijeka, which makes sense given how close it is.

Krk is also one of the more diverse islands. You’ve got lively towns, quiet villages, beaches, hiking trails, and even some wine regions, so it’s easy to mix things up throughout the week. You’ll have to pay attention to where exactly on the island you go, as I was quite surprised when we walked too far and ended up in a nudist area!

It might not be as “dreamy” as some of the more famous islands, but it’s practical, more affordable, and still a really nice place to spend a week.

• TOP Pick: Boutique Resort OSMA
• Luxury Option: Villa Weiss Malinska 

How Much Does A Week In Croatia Cost?

Now that you have an idea of where to stay in Croatia for a week, it’s time to think about the finances. 

Most people will spend around 1000€ for a week in Croatia. If you want to be comfortable and eat out every day, it’s even worth budgeting 1500€.

It’s not a secret that Croatia is not the cheapest European beach destination. Spending your summer holidays in some places on the Croatian coastline and islands can cost as much as in the South of France or Greek islands like Paros or Mykonos!

Accommodation will be your biggest and least flexible expense. I’d budget at least 100€ per night if you want to stay in the most popular coastal destinations. It’s possible to find apartments for 60€ per night in high season, but they’ll be in the villages where you need a car to get around. Also, hostels are a significantly cheaper option for solo travelers. 

At the same time, Croatia has a very long coastline, and there are so many ways to save money on your trip to Croatia. Living in Croatia, I can’t count how many times I was stuck in a line in the supermarket behind tourists with overfilled shopping carts in Lidl or Kaufland. As a vegan in Croatia, that’s often easier than looking for restaurants with vegan options!

Making your own food and sticking to free activities, like beach hopping and sightseeing, will be the best way to save money in Croatia. I recently spent 3 days in Dubrovnik, which is considered the most expensive place in Croatia, and spent less than 250€, including the accommodation.

Summary: Best Place To Stay In Croatia For A Week

Spending a week relaxing in a coastal Croatian town is my idea of a perfect summer holiday. I’ve spent most summers on a beach in Croatia, be it in Pula or Dubrovnik, and I love the idea of getting to pick a spot you can make a home for a short period of time. 

If you do decide to stay in one place for a full week, it’s really important to book your accommodation in advance. Most people travel to Croatia during the same few summer months, and the best apartments, hotels, and locations tend to sell out early.

If I had to choose just one place, I’d go for Split, Pula, or Dubrovnik. They’re all easy to reach, well-connected, and have plenty of things to do, and great beaches.

Not convinced by spending an entire week in the same place? Check out my 7-day Croatia itinerary instead!