10 Things to do in Croatia in Spring

Guest post by John from PreTravels.com

Croatia is wonderful at any time of the year but some of the places to visit are just great during spring. The weather is warming up and the plants and are flowers starting to bloom, there’s so much to enjoy! Here are 10 things you simply must do in Croatia in Spring.

1.    Sample Oysters in Ston

The Oyster festival in Ston usually takes place at the end of March when Oysters are at their very best. All the local restaurants normally take part but the heart of the action is at Mali Ston seafront promenade.  They are traditionally served raw in a half shell, with only a sprinkling of lemon juice. However, if you prefer your oyster cooked then you can sample them in different ways, prepared grilled, boiled, fried or even in a stew.  Oysters are of course accompanied by local wines to give you the very best tasting experience. 

2.    Visit Zagreb in bloom

The city of Zagreb really does bloom during the spring time where flowers sprout up in all the parks and public areas. There are three parks in the centre of Zagreb, all filled with colourful blooms at this time of year. There is also the annual flower festival in the month of May where creative florists and horticulturalists work their magic producing an array of interesting collections and exhibits. Whilst in Zagreb you can also enjoy the beginning of the outdoor eating and drinking that comes with the Spring.

3.    Explore Plitvice lakes

OK, so these lakes are beautiful at any time of the year but as top spring destinations go, Plitvice lakes in Croatia has to make the list. The waterfalls are full due to the melted snow of the winter months and the routes are much less crowded than during summer. The greenery is just coming to life, the waters are shining turquoise and wildlife beginning to emerge. The smaller crowds mean better photo opportunities too especially if you arrive very early when the park opens before the tour groups arrive.

4.    A quieter Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik nowadays is never a quiet place to visit, but during early spring you can enjoy pleasant weather without the hordes of visitors who descend on the old town during the summer. You are more likely to see and do all the things you want without having to waiting in crowded queues. The weather may not be warm enough to hit the beach or swim in the sea but it is great for everything else this amazing town has to offer.

5.    Enjoy the wine fair in Porec

Porec hosts the largest and oldest wine fair in Istria, Vinistra. Over three days you will find local producers serving and selling their best wines. Find tasting sessions, workshops, special dinners and more during this lovely event. You’ll be surprised at how many Croatian wines there are and how good they are too. Not only can you sample wines, but there are also local olive oils and schnapps showcased at the fair.

6.    Peaceful island hopping

The Croatian islands just off the coast are the perfect places to explore and relax, and in Spring (with a few exceptions) you will have more space to enjoy for yourself. The most popular route to take is from Split to Dubrovnik taking in Brac, Vis, Hvar and Korcula on your route. Another option is to start in northern Rijeka and visit Krk, Cres and Mali Losinj, Rab and Pag. Whichever islands you choose to visit remember to check the ferry and catamaran schedules before you travel. As it is quieter in Spring there may be less transport options than in Summer. 

7.    Party at Spring break on Zrce Beach

Getting ready for summer has never been so lively in Europe. This four day, four-night party is hosted at Zrce beach on the island of Pag. International DJs, boat parties and beach fun can be had during this nonstop festival. If you want to relax or get away from it all then you might want to avoid this place. Party animals who just won’t quit- this is the perfect place for you.

8.    Discover the northern coast

Northern Dalmatia is packed with pretty and appealing places to visit. Zadar is one of the highlights, a small town with its walled old city on the coast and popular sights including the intriguing sea organ and sun salutation. Further north you will find Pula, a busy commercial town with surprisingly stunning Roman architecture, including its very own Roma amphitheatre in the heart of the centre. In between these two popular places many charming towns and villages can be found. Great for a spring road trip!

9.    Forage for and eat Wild Asparagus

A favourite spring activity for locals and visitors alike, finding wild asparagus is easy when you know how. The coastal areas of Croatia are covered with the stuff, if you know where to look. Find a spiny looking bush and look carefully inside for the asparagus shoots. Or go hunting with someone who knows what they are doing. Once you’ve got the hang of it you be collecting enough for dinner. If you don’t fancy finding it for yourself, you’ll have your pick of dishes at local restaurants to sample instead.

10. Enjoy outdoor activities

Spring is the best time to try outdoor activities in Croatia, the weather is not too hot and there are lots of things to do. Cycling, hiking and white water rafting are on the agenda for outdoor enthusiasts here. In some parts of Istria, you can try extreme sports such as skydiving and water skiing too. Even if you aren’t an adrenalin junkie, the many national parks Croatia has to offer set the scene for an excellent outdoor adventure, whether that’s a casual walk or an exhausting hike!

There we have it, lots of reasons to visit Croatia in the Spring, what do you think?

This was a guest post by John from PreTravels.com

What is your favourite thing to do in Croatia in the Springtime? Did it make this list?