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Guide to Travelling to Croatia with Teenagers

crotatia travel with teens

Whether the teens among your clang are beach worshippers, culture vultures, or nature enthusiasts, Croatia is the perfect European escape for travelling with them. Think days spent lazing on white sands, strolling through history-ridden streets, and taking in views across picturesque regions. Croatia’s mainland and islands are a haven for exploring with you and yours. 

Here is a guide to travelling to the European gem, with teenagers. 

The Best Time to Go to Croatia with Teenagers

With the traditional Mediterranean influences on the climate, Croatia is a traditionally warm country like its neighbouring European counterparts. The best time to visit with the younger ones depends on what’s top of your holiday to-do list, but it’s worth acknowledging that school holidays will result in pricier trips. Why not consider late spring, May to June, where there are guaranteed fewer crowds within the Dubrovnik walls and scattered across the beaches? This is also the season of blooming flowers popping out throughout the lush greenery, sure to impress the teens for Insta’ feeds! 

Late summer can also provide pleasant temperatures similar to late spring. For instance, this weather is still likely to be warm enough for sea swimming. The end of the summer rush again means fewer tourists within the key sites, but this time of year is also the Harvest Season in the country, meaning restaurants and trattorias alike are renowned for having their freshest, most local produce and wines on offer. 

The year-round jewel of Croatia is ready to be explored by you and yours. Don’t forget about the shoulder seasons when it comes to booking! 

The Best Things to Do in Croatia with Teenagers

From outdoor adventures to historical explorations of education, both the Croatian mainland and the range of islands are ideal for teenagers to be entertained all vacation long. To get those inspiration juices flowing, here are some of the best things to do with the younger ones: 

  • Explore the renowned city walls of Dubrovnik and allow imaginations to run away with teenagers as they embrace how history can still shape societies today. 

  • From kayaking to water rafting, head out into the Adriatic waters together and embark on watersports galore. 

  • To see the full diversity that Croatia has to offer, consider an island-hopping venture, where you can show the teenagers islands from the vibrancy of Hvar to the blue cave of Vis. 

  • For wildlife wonders, choose a national park to visit, from the extensive Croatian portfolio. Plitvice Lakes National Park intertwines cascading lakes and waterfalls with wood pathways and greenery in abundance. You’re sure to see a plethora of wildlife in a protected area like this. 

  • If the mainland is at the top of your bucket list, head to Split and explore the ancient ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, surrounding the everyday life of society.

How to Get Around Croatia with Teenagers

For an island-hopping escapade, the most authentic way to get around Croatia’s coastline is via ocean travel. Discover ultimate luxury with Croatia holiday packages, for all of you to be impressed by indulgent boat transport, from luxury balcony rooms onboard to a mixture of on-sea and land experiences. Impress the teens with daily diving spots to plunge into the azure Adriatic, and luxury amenities onboard, from supreme sunbathing spots at the front deck to catered five-star dining experiences. To make the trip truly unforgettable for the whole family, cruising around the surrounding Croatian seas is sure to suffice all, from the grandparents to the stylish teens. 

Where to Stay in Croatia with Teenagers

Like the best time to go, the best regions to stay in Croatia are dependent on the desires of your team. The islands and mainland are home to a plethora of accommodation options, from boutique bliss properties, private seafront villas and the most luxurious hotels. Pick the islands or areas for stay first, before finding that all-important family-friendly hub. 

Dubrovnik brings global significance with the merge of ancient times, with the contemporary eras of today. Staying here would mean a mainland home from home, with key architectural importance in protecting city walls. It’s handily also on the stunning coastline, so teenagers here can enjoy sea kayaking, jetskiing and even snorkelling the crystal waters. Similarly, Split is home to the UNESCO World Heritage palace connecting to the city’s livelihood today. Having a hub here would mean similar beach and cultural scenes as neighbouring Dubrovnik, but also the oasis of Marjan Hill for hiking or biking in nature, just up from the city centre. 

If the teenagers are begging for an island stay, there is plenty to offer local culture seamlessly blended with quintessential Croatian charm. For an idyllic island vacation, the Pakleni Islands are near some of the most postcard-perfect secluded coves, great for swimming in serenity and snorkelling opportunities. If a lively atmosphere is more on the cards, Hvar Town is a mix of history, shops and cafes. Especially known for its evening vibrancy with entertainment and pristine dining options littering the island’s cityscape. 

What to Pack for a Trip to Croatia

With the teenagers in tow, let packing be seamless and effective. Alongside essential toiletries, SPF products and travel documents, let teens pick out their favourite evening outfits of colour and summer style. It’s optimal to pack a few longer layers in case the evening breeze gets more uncomfortable and ensure comfy shoes to spend days on foot in. Swimwear is a must for lazing days at the beach and flip flops for getting sand in between your toes. Don't forget to keep some room spare on the way out too, for the teens to shop till they drop for those all-important bring-home souvenirs. 

Summary

Croatia is a haven for memory-making with the ones approaching adulthood. Embark on scenic walks and wondrous swims. For an unforgettable adventure, the Adriatic gem awaits.