Christine RogadorLocated between central and eastern Europe, sharing borders with Slovenia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, with a stunning coastline along the Adriatic Sea. This charming country is known for its charming coastal towns, medieval fortresses, and Roman ruins.
Croatia is also renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, such as the awe-inspiring Unesco Heritage site Plitvice Lakes National Park with its stunning waterfalls and vibrant lakes.
The Dubrovnik old town is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient city walls and Baroque churches, making it one of the most famous landmarks in Croatia. While Pula Arena, a well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater situated in Pula, is another iconic landmark in Croatia and one of the six largest surviving Roman arenas around the world. These were just a few of what Croatia can offer.
Explore Croatia and discover its remarkable landmarks. From its historical sites, dramatic coastal towns, and breathtaking scenery, that offers a captivating experience for travelers seeking a memorable adventure. We have compiled a list of the must-see destinations to help you plan for your upcoming Croatia itinerary.
And here are some of the best recommendations for the famous landmarks in Croatia to make the most of your trip.
16 Famous Landmarks In Croatia
1. Lotrščak Tower, Zagreb
Opening Hours: Tuesdays – Sundays from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm
Admission Fee: €2.65
If you are visiting Zagreb, Croatia, make sure to check out Lotrščak Tower. The tower is located in the Old Town in the Upper Town area (Gradec or Gornji grad). It’s a 13th-century defence tower with incredible panoramic views. It’s also the best place to catch an unforgettable sunset over Zagreb!
The tower was originally built to protect the Southern gate of the Old Town wall.
Every day at noon, a cannon is fired from the tower – a tradition that dates back to 1877 and was intended so that citizens could set their clocks accurately. Unfortunately, this hasn’t been happening since the cannon was damaged in a recent earthquake; hopefully, they will repair it soon!
The tower has several floors, each with interesting exhibits on the history of the tower. You can see the old cannons and different views of the city as you climb the 160 steps to reach the viewing platform on the roof.
Make sure to plan your visit for the hour before sundown to view the city bathed in a beautiful golden glow. It’s truly an awe-inspiring sight.
Lotrščak Tower is open Tuesdays to Sundays from 10 am to 7 pm and tickets cost 20HRK (€2.65).
Contributed by: Jade Jordan from Travel Across The Borderline
2. Trogir Old town, Trogir
Trogir, a picturesque coastal town nestled along Croatia’s Adriatic coast, is a captivating destination brimming with attractions and experiences. Its UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, known for its remarkable preservation, is a captivating maze of ancient streets, historic landmarks, and architectural wonders.
Within this enchanting labyrinth, visitors can marvel at the majestic Cathedral of St. Lawrence, an exquisite masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s intricately carved portal, stunning bell tower, and magnificent interior featuring stunning frescoes and a remarkable collection of religious art, offer a glimpse into Trogir’s rich cultural heritage.
Another notable gem within the old town is the Palača Ćipiko, an elegant palace showcasing the town’s noble history. This impressive Renaissance palace, adorned with ornate decorations and intricate details, reflects the opulence and grandeur of its past owners.
For history enthusiasts, Trogir proudly presents one more prominent landmark. The Kamerlengo Fortress, a formidable medieval stronghold, stands as a testament to the city’s defensive prowess and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings. As you traverse the ancient city walls and explore the well-preserved bastions, you’ll be transported back in time to Trogir’s eventful past.
While Trogir’s town center may not have expansive sandy beaches, it boasts easy access to idyllic swimming spots. Along the Riva waterfront, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll, savor delicious local cuisine at waterfront restaurants, and embark on boat tours to nearby islands and beaches. Island hopping is a popular activity, with Čiovo, Drvenik, and Šolta among the sought-after destinations. These islands beckon with their secluded coves, pristine waters, charming villages, and captivating landscapes, offering a perfect escape into natural beauty.
Contributed by: Maartje from Unieke Vakantieplekjes
3. Zadar Sea Organ, Zadar
Located in the coastal Croatian town of Zadar, you’ll find one of the most unique man-made landmarks in Croatia – the famous Zadar Sea Organ. This urban musical installation was designed by the Croatian architect Nikola Bašić and opened to the public in 2005.
The installation was awarded European Prize for Urban Public Space in 2006, so a stop by this one-of-a-kind, sea-powered instrument is one of the best things to do in Zadar!
The sound the Sea Organ creates depends on the power of waves as they are created by two different types of wind. The sea enters one of the 35 pipes set in 7 steps of different levels to produce a somewhat random but harmonious sound.
This architectural sound object mesmerizes visitors with its sleek looks and unique sounds, and it is completely free to visit! You can sit on the steps and enjoy the music while admiring the view of the sea and the nearby islands.
The best time to come by the Sea Organ is early in the morning when you’ll have the whole area to yourself or for the sunset.
Sunsets from the Sea Organ are considered one of the most beautiful in Croatia, and there’s even a monument designed by the same architect called the Greeting to the Sun on the seafront next to the Organ.
Contributed by: Natali from She’s Abroad Again
4. Bishop Gregory Statue, Split
The Bishop Gregory Statue, or Gregory of Nin, is a huge statue to the North East side of the infamous Diocletian Palace. At a height of 8.5m or 25ft, it towers over most of Split’s skyline.
But you might be surprised to know the reason why the people of Split erected this statue because it was not for their dedication to Christianity. In fact, Gregory of Nin famously opposed the Pope and traditional religious circles. He actually gained popularity in the 10th Century for defying the Church’s orders to lead services in Latin and instead spoke in the local Croatian language. This meant that religion became accessible to everyone, rather than just the wealthy and educated.
As such, the statue was erected because Bishop Gregory became known as a fierce defender of the Croatian language, values and culture. This became important again during the second world war when the Italians invaded Split. Remaining a symbol of hope and defiance, the statue was protected and moved from inside the palace walls to its current resting place.
Legend has it that if you rub the big toe of Gregory before making a wish, it’s going to come true. In case that’s not convincing enough, it’s a totally free landmark that’s open to the public at all times. Find the statue at the Golden Gate of Diocletian’s Palace, right in the centre of Split.
Contributed by: Shannon of Co Work Review
5. The Walls of Ston, Ston
The Walls of Ston, aka the European Great Wall of China, is the second-largest fortification system in the world after the Great Wall of China.
The walls of Ston in Croatia are the longest fortification system in Europe. The walls are 7 km (4.3 mi) long and have 5 fortresses and 20 towers (out of the original 40 towers).
The walls were built in the 15th century to defend the town of Ston and the medieval Republic of Dubrovnik (to which Ston belonged at that time) against the invasion of Ottomans. The fortified system connected the towns of Ston and Mali Ston on a peninsula and protected them and the area from inland takeover.
The town of Ston is known for its salt production, a significant wealth in the Middle Ages. Today visitors can walk the walls of Ston. There are two sections to walks. To walk one part of the walls takes about 30 min and to walk another part takes about 40 min. The walls have very steep and challenging steps that demand comfortable walking shoes. They are open from 8 am to 6.30 pm. 10 € is the admission fee for adults and 5 € for kids over seven years old.
Besides the longest walls in Europe and the salt pans, Ston is famous for its delicious oysters and mussels. Therefore, Ston is one of the top destinations in Croatia.
Ston is only 1-hour drive away from Dubrovnik. Ston is at the beginning of the Pelješac peninsula, a famous wine-producing area in Croatia. Touring Pelješac wineries with a visit to Ston makes one of the most popular day tours from Dubrovnik. So, when in Dubrovnik, join a guided day tour in Dubrovnik and head to walk the longest walls in Europe!
Contributed by: Milijana of World Travel Connector
6. Dvigrad Ruins, Rovinj
One of the most enchanting landmarks you’ll find in Croatia has to be the Dvigrad Ruins. You’ll find this hidden gem in the Istria region, only half an hour’s drive from the famous city of Rovinj. But what are the Dvigrad ruins, and what makes them so special?
Well, these ruins are of a medieval town that’s been abandoned since 1714. They are incredibly well-preserved, there are ruins of an old church, the town palace, and several houses. These ruins are super impressive and the town is actually not as small as you might think, it’ll take you about an hour to explore everything.
Dvigrad’s abandonment wasn’t a surprise back then; this town was very unfortunate. In the 14th century, Venetians burnt the town and slaughtered its people, and only a century later, this town was stricken by the plague, and Malaria not long after that.
Luckily, now Dvigrad is perfectly safe to visit and very admirable, due to beautiful nature slowly taking over the ruins. And best of all, you can visit for free and explore the entire town on your own! There’s also a small parking lot where you can park your car for free.
The Dvigrad ruins are a landmark in Croatia that will blow your mind!
Contributed by: Lisa from Nova on the Road
7. Euphrasian Basilica, Porec
In the small coastal town of Poreč, you’ll find one of Europe’s finest intact examples of Byzantine art. The Euphrasian Basilica, built here in the 6th century, is an incredible example of early Christianity that fits some amazing architecture and artworks into a relatively small religious complex perched on the coastline of the town’s historic centre.
When you visit the Poreč Basilica, you’ll be able to explore its different sections, including the 5th-century baptistery from an earlier church, the bell tower with views across town, and a small museum that includes original sculptures and tilework. But it’s the church interior that is the highlight, decorated with vibrant mosaic decorations that still glitter more than 1500 years after they were installed here.
Although much of Poreč feels like a seaside resort town these days (with a lovely walking trail along the coast between the bays), the old town has been well preserved and the basilica is the highlight, the bell tower rising above the orange-tiled buildings surrounding it, with a picturesque location right next to the water.
The Euphrasian Basilica’s opening hours change throughout the year, but it’s open from 09:00 – 21:00 during the summer months, and entry costs just 50 kn (25 kn for a concession). Although it’s a small site, there’s lots of detail to discover and it’ll take between 30 to 60 minutes to see it all properly.
Contributed by: Michael from Time Travel Turtle
8. Pula Arena, Pula
A visit to this ancient Roman, the 2000-year-old amphitheater is one of the best things you can do in Pula, a city on Croatia’s northwest Adriatic coast. The building is impressively well-preserved, having survived centuries of use, from gladiator fights to pop concerts.
Pula Arena is located just a 10-minute walk from both Pula Bus Station and Pula Train Station. And honestly, you can’t miss it – it’s 100-foot tall and 400-foot wide! Parking is available across the road at the Car Park Carolina. Tickets cost 10 Euros for adults and 5 Euros for children.
Entrance tickets give you access to the inside of the amphitheater as well as the underground tunnels containing a museum of its history. Opening times change by month throughout the year, so check online in advance of your visit.
But, the great thing about Pula Arena is that you can walk all the way around the outside for free on a public footpath. And, it’s scenic. The design of the arena means you can see through the gaps in the walls to see the ruins. What’s more, a couple of cafes also have seating areas looking into the amphitheatre from the outside.
The best time to visit is at opening time or towards the end of the day. This avoids crowds but also means glowing light to photograph this beautiful monument, particularly at dawn.
Contributed by: Zoe from Zoe Goes Places
To book this tour click here.
9. St. Donatus church, Zadar
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission Fee: Children aged 10 and adults: €5.00. Pupils, students, and pensioners (groups): €3.00; other groups: €3.00
Located in the heart of Zadar, Croatia, and surrounded by ancient ruins from centuries past, St. Donatus Church is one of the most famous landmarks in Croatia.
This round Byzantine-style church is a symbol of the city’s history dating back to the 9th century, and it was built as part of the Roman Forum. It’s even attached to the largest church in all of Dalmatia – Zadar Cathedral!
St Donatus Church is one of few buildings that have survived Mongol invasion during the 13th century, and today it serves as a remarkable venue for medieval renaissance music. With its intricate stone and marble carvings, St Donatus Church should be at the top of your list when you visit Zadar.
As one of the oldest churches in Croatia, it stands as a testament to the city’s past and furthermore showcases how far we have come. With its stunning design and architecture, you can almost feel the history passing through this place.
Besides, St Donatus Church offers stunning views of the city. Due to its location on the Roman Forum, it provides a breathtaking view of Zadar and the Adriatic Sea.
If you’re ever visiting Zadar make sure to include St Donatus Church in your itinerary. Open from 9 am to 9 pm, and with an entry price of 20 HRK (USD 2.9), this place is worth the visit!
Contributed by: Sara from Mindful Travel
To book this tour click here.
10. Diocletian’s Palace, Split
Visiting Diocletian’s Palace is one of the must things to do in Split. The ancient palace, dating back to the 4th century AD, was built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian as his retirement residence.
Even if the name indicates one building only, in fact, it is a whole complex occupying half of the old town in Split, housing a few thousand residents today. Diocletian’s Palace was designed as a solid fortress – half of it was occupied by the Emperor, the other half by the military.
After Diocletian’s death, the place was used by future Roman Emperors and their families; in the 7th century, it served as a shelter for refugees from nearby Salona. Diocletian’s Palace gave the beginning to Split, which developed around the site and was smoothly incorporated into the city’s scenery.
In 1979 Diocletian’s Palace, together with Split Old Town, was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Exploring Diocletian’s Palace is free of charge; the only exception is the excavated remains of the basement. You simply need to wander around Split’s Old Town and pay attention to your surroundings to notice all the details from the Roman times.
You can also join the guided tour to explain more about the place, its history, and its importance. You might also go up to the tower of St Domnius Cathedral and look at the Diocletian’s Palace and the surroundings from above to fully see its grandness.
Contributed by: Kamila from My Wanderlust
To book this tour click here.
11. Uspinjača Funicular, Zagreb
No trip to Croatia is complete without a visit to the country’s capital, Zagreb. In fact, it is recommended to spend at least two days in Zagreb to explore all of the city’s main sights.
One of these places to see is the Uspinjača Funicular. This attraction of Zagreb is different from the others because besides being a sight, it is also a form of transportation.
And not just any means of transport – the funicular has already operated for over 130 years, making it the oldest public transport in the Croatian capital. And this is not the only valuable title that Uspinjača holds. The funicular is also considered the shortest in the world.
Not only is it an exciting experience to ride up on the little train, but it also saves a lot of time. This is because the funicular was built to connect the upper town of Zagreb, Gornji Grad, with the lower town, Donji Grad. That is why not only visitors but also residents of the city regularly use the funicular. After all, the ride up or down costs less than one euro.
If you want to see all the major sights of the city, the funicular is, therefore, a convenient way to reach the Strossmayer Promenade – from here you have a fantastic view over Zagreb – and the famous Lotrščak Tower.
Contributed by: Vicki from Vicki Viaja
To book this tour click here.
12. Tunnel Gric, Zagreb
Opening Hours: Daily 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Admission Fee: Free
One of the famous landmarks in Croatia is without a doubt the Gric Tunnel.
Situated in the capital Zagreb, the Gric Tunnel was built during the Second World War as a bomb shelter and promenade. It received much criticism at the time as it could only house 5,000 of the nearly 400,000 Zagrebians. Following the war, the tunnel fell into disrepair before being renovated into the condition it is today.
Tunnel Gric is free to enter and open everyday between 9am and 9pm, and can be entered using one of its six entrances including Mesnicka Street or Stjepan Radic Street. The name derives from its location under the historic neighborhood of Gric and spans 1,150ft in length and 10ft in width.
Since its renovation, many cultural events and even raves have taken place in the echoing chamber!
There are plans for further works on the tunnel to include a museum which would include holograms, display screens and video projectors to highlight the history of Zagreb.
If you’re into your historical structures or simply think it’s a cool thing to experience then this really is a must-visit and incredibly mesmerizing structure!”
Contributed by: Alex and Leah from Alex And Lea On Tour
13. St Mark’s Church, Zagreb
This is one of the best things to see in Zagreb, and you shouldn’t miss it when you’re in town. The church is famous for its beautiful colorful roof tiles, which are unique. On the left side of the roof, you can see the medieval coat of arms of Croatia, Slavonia and Dalmatia. On the right side you can see the famous emblem of Zagreb.
The church has a rich history and dates back to 1880. It is located in one of the oldest parts of the city, specifically in the Upper Town which is a very short walk away from the centre (and up a bit of a hill, too!).
Despite it being one of the oldest and most interesting buildings in Zagreb and its unique beauty, it was nearly destroyed! Because there wasn’t enough space in the region, people wanted a new church, they didn’t like its location, and they needed construction materials for new buildings. Thankfully, this didn’t happen and we can still witness how beautiful this spot is!
Today, St Mark’s Church is cordoned off so you can’t go inside, but you can view this spectacular place from the outside. The church now sits close to many parliamentary buildings. I was informed by the local guard that there was a threat on the lives of the workers in parliament by a disgruntled citizen, hence the reason for limiting access to this area, but at least you can get excellent photos of this incredible site without hordes of tourists!
Contributed by: Adriana from Wanderlicious
14. Krka National Park, Lozovac, Šibenik-Knin County
Opening Hours: For operation hours per season, check it here.
Admission Fee: For tickets information, click here.
One of the most popular national parks in Croatia, Krka National Park is famous for its many waterfalls.
The Krka River flows through the park, and creates seven waterfalls along its course, the most famous being Skradinski buk.
Skradinski buk can be visited via a boardwalk trail. The waterfall is actually a network of cascades, about 330 feet wide. It is a most impressive sight, especially in the spring, when the water flow is very powerful.
Earlier, you could swim in the beautiful plunge pool at the bottom, but the park has since forbidden swimming here. You can, however, swim near Roski Slap, another of the beautiful waterfalls in Krka National Park.
Other than the natural beauty you can see in the park, there is also an ethno village to tour, with some old water mills, as well as other historic sites.
Visovac island is a very picturesque spot, with a monastery on the island that you can photograph from a viewpoint on the road above the island.
Krka National Park has several entrances, but Lozovac and Skradin are the two most used gateways. From Skradin, a boat ride, takes you into the park. If you are driving, the Lozovac entrance is a better option.
Krka National Park can be visited on a guided day tour from major cities like Zadar and Split on the Dalmatian coast of Croatia.
The park has variable hours of operation and varying admission fees based on the season, and it’s best to visit the park website for current information.
Contributed by: Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles
To book this tour click here.
15. Dubrovnik City Walls
The Dubrovnik City Walls in Croatia stand tall as an architectural marvel and a must-visit destination in Europe! Spanning from the 12th to the 17th century, these historic fortifications, alongside the Old Town, have even earned UNESCO World Heritage status.
Originally built for defense, the Dubrovnik City Walls now offer visitors a remarkable journey through time. Walking along the ancient stone walls, you can envision the city’s rich history and the stories they hold. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking, with terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.
To make the most of your visit, explore the walls in the morning when the crowds are thinner, and the ambiance is enchanting. As you traverse the pathways, you’ll discover ancient towers and picturesque lookout points, each offering captivating vistas.
While the entrance fee is approximately 30 euros, consider purchasing a Dubrovnik Card for added value. This all-in-one ticket grants access to various attractions, including the City Walls, and provides additional perks.
The opening times in Summer are usually from 08.00 – 19.30 h. In winter they open only from 09.00 – 15.00 h. A great idea is also to take a guided tour, especially if you want to learn more about the history of Dubrovnik.
Recommended by: Martina from PlacesofJuma
16. Rovinj Old Town, Rovinj
If you’re looking for the most beautiful landmarks in Croatia, than the enchanting Old Town of Rovinj is a great choice for a visit! You’ll be thrilled as you embark on a short trip filled with picturesque highlights that are guaranteed to create unforgettable memories.
Located on a small peninsula, Rovinj exudes a charm that could grace the pages of any travel magazine, and its colorful townhouses create a backdrop straight out of a dream. Rovinj’s picturesque beaches, which are inviting for a swim as early as May, add to the town’s charm.
Go on a tour of the lively historic old town of Rovinj. As you meander through the labyrinthine stone streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time and admire the ancient buildings that adorn the landscape.
Rovinj’s art scene is also a real highlight in the Istria region, offering you the opportunity to immerse yourself in its artistic treasures through visits to the town’s museums and galleries. Particularly noteworthy is the Rovigno Museum, housed in the magnificent Baroque palace of the Counts Califfi, which dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries.
But there is more to discover! Charming and colorful town squares with a variety of excellent restaurants invite you to enjoy the delicacies of Istrian cuisine and wines. For an unforgettable culinary experience, the Restoran Santa Croce is highly recommended, serving exquisite truffle pasta and delicious fish dishes.
A visit to the Church of St. Euphemia on the town hill is a must in Rovinj, as from here you have a breathtaking panoramic view and the opportunity to witness impressive sunsets.
Rovinj offers a wide range of accommodation options for every taste. For a very special stay, we recommend the beautiful Hotel Lone, which will leave a lasting impression with its pool and breathtaking sea view.
Recommended by: Martina from PlacesofJuma
