We guarantee this list of fun list of things to do in Croatia with kids will help with the eye-rolling and tantrums, leaving you to enjoy your vacation.
Traveling to Europe with kids can be challenging. Family holidays abroad can be fantastic if you ensure everyone’s expectations are met.
It might be fun for you to roam cobblestone streets in Dubrovnik, eat white truffles in Istria, take pictures of ancient sites, and check off every item on your Croatia bucket list. Nevertheless, I’m sure your children would beg to stay home with their grandparents.
Am I right?
If I am right, then you may want to take a few pointers from all the things to do in Croatia with the kids’ suggestions we have. My recommendations will help you mix the kid-friendly activities vs. the activities with the kiddies rolling their eyes at you. Croatia with kids can be loads of fun, and most importantly, if you’re wondering, “Is Croatia good for kids?” Croatia is super-kid-friendly.
Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!
Kid-Friendly Caves
No matter how old your children are, they will love heading underground and checking out what lies beneath! Biserujka Cave in Krk and Festinsko Kraljevstvo in Zminj are ideal for families and safe for young children.
1. Biserujka Cave
Biserujka Cave is located close to Rudine Village on the island of Krk, and you’ll find a range of different stalagmites and stalactites in several different sections of the cave. An education trail links this cave to another smaller one in the area, which takes about half an hour to walk through beautiful scenery.
Children under five can go into the cave for free, with children up to 12 years costing 20HKN and adults at 30HKN.
2. Festinsko Kraljevstvo
Zminj’s Festinsko Kraljevstvo is located in Festini, Istria. The beauty around the caves is stunning, and kids will love wandering around the open spaces. When you reach the cave, you’ll see various sculptures made naturally out of rocks, the cave itself, and a children’s park, mini farm, and bar just outside.
You can only visit this cave in the summertime without prior permission, with children under five going free.
Kid-Friendly Beaches & Water Activities
Croatia’s coastline is a treasure trove of beaches, each with its unique charm, making it a fantastic destination for families. What’s excellent about Croatian beaches is the variety. You’ve got everything from pebbly coves to sandy stretches, all bathed in the stunning Adriatic Sea.
For families with younger kids, sandy beaches like those in Rab and the shallow bays in Istria are perfect. They offer gentle slopes into the water and plenty of space for sandcastle building. The water is usually crystal clear and calm, ideal for safe splashing and beginner swimmers.
Then there are the pebble beaches, like those in Makarska Riviera, known for their dramatic beauty and clear waters. These beaches are great for families with older kids or teenagers who can enjoy snorkeling, exploring the sea’s rich underwater life, or trying out various water sports.
Many Croatian beaches are backed by pine trees, offering natural shade – a real bonus for families looking to escape the midday sun. You’ll often find beachside cafes or ice-cream stands, making it easy to grab a snack or a cool drink without straying too far from your beach spot.
Safety is a key feature, too. Many of the popular family beaches in Croatia have lifeguards on duty, and the sea is generally calm and welcoming. Plus, the Croatian coast is dotted with small islands, many within easy boat-trip distance, offering the chance for a mini-adventure and the opportunity to find your own slice of beach paradise.
3. Bačvice Beach
Bačvice Beach is a family favorite in Split. Its shallow waters make it ideal for younger kids, while teenagers will love the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to play Picigin, a traditional Croatian ball game.
The beach is a perfect spot for a family day out, offering sun, sea, and relaxation. Whether building sandcastles, splashing in the water or just chilling out, Bacvice Beach caters to all ages, making it a go-to spot for family fun in the sun.
4. Gacka River Canoeing
A little more adrenaline is coming your way with this suggestion! The River Gacka is an excellent spot for canoeing or kayaking, and it’s great for families because there are no rapids, rough currents, or waterfalls.
The main river route lasts around 8 km, and it will take about three hours to get around. There is beautiful scenery no matter where you turn, and the kids will love that you’re getting to see nature differently. Several companies run tours and trips along the river, so shop around.
5. Sandcastles & Beach Volleyball
Yes, it is possible. I am sure you’ve heard about the need to pack your water shoes
Sandy beaches in Croatia are a little trickier to find but sprinkled all over the country. If building a sandcastle is high on your wish list of things to do in Croatia with children, ask the locals where to find one close to where you are staying.
- Lopar village on the Island of Rab has 22 sandy beaches – making them very easy to find
- Sakarun Beach on Dugi Otok {Long Island} is one of the nicest
- Saplunara Beach, on Mljet. Home to one of Croatia’s eight national parks
- Omiš has several sandy beaches. There are lots of kid-friendly things to do in Omiš, including beach volleyball
- Vela Przina Beach on the Island of Korčula is a safe option
- Queens Beach in Nin. Less than a 30-minute drive from the ancient city of Zadar, you’ll find some of the country’s best windsurfing and soft sand.
Other places include The Pelješac Peninsula, Murter Island, Baska Beach on Krk Island, the Dubrovnik Riviera has several, Palmizana on Hvar Island, Island of Cres, or head to any of these seven family-friendly islands in the Zadar region.
6. Raft Grade 2-3 Whitewater Rapids On The Cetina River
After you have finished your hiking, it’s time to check off item #2 on the family adventure holidays list. Rafting! Children over nine can climb into a raft with you and whitewater raft down the Cetina River, close to Omiš, 25kms south of Split.
Rafting in Croatia, lasting from 8 am to 2 pm, is the ultimate outdoor adventure for little travelers. The rafting tour in Croatia that we took came with pre-raft snacks, equipment hire, an experienced guide, and post-rafting snacks. Having your kids smiling from ear to ear is safe and guaranteed.
7. Snorkeling In Croatia
Your kids will love snorkeling here in Croatia as the waters are so very calm. While the most exciting thing they will see is likely to be small fish, sea cucumbers, and urchins, snorkeling in Croatia is an excellent place for your kids to get started and practice how to put their heads underwater.
8. Water Activities On The River Zrmanja
Rafting trips also take place on the River Zrmanja from spring to autumn.
If you’re looking for something a little less adventurous for your Croatian vacation with kids, you can still enjoy the Zrmanja on a kayak or canoe during the low water level periods of summer.
Or, if you have tiny children, you can take boat trips that start at Starigrad Paklenica along the Zrmanja River mouth and go all the way to Obrovac, including lunch.
9. Go Windsurfing To Get Your Teenagers Off Their Smartphones
I can think of at least a dozen great windsurfing locations, including Nin, Viganj, Savudrija, and Bol on Brač Island. iPad’s down and sails up.
Even if your children have never windsurfed before, they can give it a go; there are some windsurfing schools along Croatia’s coast, and lots of places have equipment hire.
10. Swim Under A Waterfall
Those epic teal, turquoise, and deep blue waterfalls that you’ve seen on many travel brochures, websites, and travel blogs are probably those of Plitvice Lakes. While Plitvice Lakes is a top tourist attraction in Croatia due to the compassionate environment, you can’t swim there.
Instead, enjoy a family boat ride to Krka National Park via Skradinski Buk beginning at Skradin. Krka National Park is more than just the waterfalls, so be sure to look around the whole park.
11. Take A Ferry Ride Or Go Sailing
The best time to set sail in Croatia is between April and November. Navigating your way around the many islands choosing where to stop and explore makes sailing Croatia for great European family holidays. Pull-up in quiet bays for a morning swim and spend the afternoon exploring a busy village. Or visa-versa, you choose!
We’ve sailed Croatia several times and wrote a sailing Croatia holiday guide to help families choose how best to plan and enjoy a sailing vacation in Croatia.
If you’re short on time, then you can Island hop along Croatia’s long and indented coastline via ferry. Thrifty Travel Mama spoke about how her three boys loved taking ferry rides on their Croatian vacation. Booking and planning ferries in Croatia is complicated as there are some companies, not all of which offer online bookings. Things to consider are:
- Car ferry vs. Catamaran. Not all services allow you to take your vehicle, and there are limited spaces. Book your tickets at the local office as soon as you know when you’d like to go.
- Non-peak season timetables. Between June & September, there are dozens of lines operating, although you may need to find overnight accommodation on the island for your outbound connection outside of those periods.
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Kid-Friendly Festivals
12. Oprtalj Kestenjada (Chestnut Festival)
If you think there aren’t many things you can do with a chestnut, think again! Every October, the Chestnut Festival takes place in Oprtalj, Istria, and it is a fun-filled day out for the whole family.
This is a great day out with a difference in music, games, competitions, tasting different chestnut-related foods, and discussing how many other products are made.
We spent hours here with friends, and all our kids ran about having a blast without complaining. We ate and drank and had a fabulous day!
13. Špancirfest In Varaždin
Almost two decades ago, the first street festival in Croatia occurred, which is still happening today! In the heart of Varazdin, every year, you will find Spancirfest, which lasts for ten days and is an entire festival of fun and frolic. Usually, the festival has games, creative arts and crafts, dancing, workshops, street theatre, musical performances, and a lively and fun atmosphere in August.
Check out the exact days before you travel to ensure you don’t miss out. Kids will love the lively and fun feel of the area, and there are so many workshops and exhibitions every ten days that there will be something for everyone within the family.
14. Šibenik’s International Children’s Festival
Every June, Sibenik plays host to the International Children’s Festival, which spans several days of fun-filled activities for the entire family. This two-week event has been happening for over 50 years and is a firm favorite in the area.
Children can meet other children, play, enjoy creative workshops and crafts, play games, and enjoy the vibe. There are three main programs on offer, all of which have an educational feel but disguise it well, firmly in the direction of fun! The whole idea is to bring cultural awareness to children but to do it creatively. So, if you’re trying to figure out what to do with kids in Croatia, this is a great option.
15. Diocletian Days In Split
Teaching kids about history is a must-do, but it’s even better if they can get immersed with it. Every May, Split plays host to Diocletian Days.
This event in Split shows children what it would have been like during Roman times, with Emperor Diocletian’ walking through the city’ (in a carriage, of course) and creating an atmospheric step back in time. Even you will feel like you’ve jumped into a time machine!
Alongside the general merriment, there will be music from the Roman period, dance exhibitions, and gastronomical delights.
Kid-Friendly Tours
16. Walking Tour In Split
There aren’t too many children-friendly tours in Split, but this is one.
It can be hard to get kids excited about walking around an old city; that’s something all parents have experience with.
On this tour, an expert guide (a father himself!) will take you and your family on a trip through Split, during which you’ll learn about the city’s legends, walk through Split’s ancient gates, and even visit Split’s oldest pastry shop.
17. Truffle Hunting In Motovun
Istria’s Motovun region is famous for its truffles, so it makes sense to go truffle hunting. Kids will love the guided truffle hunt, as dogs accompany you out into the forest, sniffing out the truffles, with a hands-on guide to show you how the process happens.
The two dogs, Bela and Nera, are friendly but professional, and once the walk is over, you can go into the shop and buy products from what you have just found in the forest itself.
This is a great day out with a difference, and the kids will love accompanying the dogs out into the natural forests.
18. Photo Jeep Safari
Perfect for little legs is to hop in a jeep and head off or up high and explore. We took out then 18-month old on a photo jeep safari in Starigrad Paklenica. He (and us) had a fabulous time.
If you plan to travel to Croatia with a baby, this activity will suit you as they provide a baby seat for the jeep, or alternatively, you can bring your own.
19. Game Of Thrones Tours In Dubrovnik Old Town
Families who love epic adventures and Game of Thrones fans should 100% do a Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik, famously known as the real-life King’s Landing, offers an immersive experience into the world of this popular TV series.
Kids and teenagers will be thrilled to explore the same streets and fortresses where their favorite characters plotted and battled. These tours are not just about following in the footsteps of Jon Snow or Daenerys; they’re a fun way to explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Dubrovnik.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to spark an interest in history and storytelling among young minds.
Kid-Friendly Natural Outdoor Spaces & Parks
20. Croatian National Parks
You’ve made sandcastles and been swimming in the waterfalls at Krka National Park; the following item to cap off your family adventure holidays is to….. take a walk and boat ride through Plitvice Lakes, rent kayaks, or climb a mountain at Mljet National Park.
Local Tip: If you have kids under six or children who don’t like to walk for very long, then Plitvice Lakes National Park should be avoided. It’s not designed for tiny kids (though my four-year-old loved it). Pushing a pram is impossible, and you’ll need at least two hours in the park.
That said, you can make a great day hiking, taking wildly astounding photos, enjoy lunch, and a boat ride for anyone willing to put on tennis shoes and get active. Here is an excellent travel report about kids and Plitvice to help you plan a fantastic Plitvice day trip.
21. Local City Parks In Croatia
Croatia's parks, including Marjan Park in Split and Sustipan Park, are green oases perfect for families. These parks offer a peaceful break from the city buzz, where kids can play and teenagers can unwind. Families can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, and stunning views.
Marjan Park, with its nature trails and ancient chapels, is great for explorers, while Sustipan, with its dramatic cliffside setting, is perfect for those looking for a serene escape.
These parks provide a natural playground for all ages, proving that you don't need to venture far from the city to find a bit of tranquility.
22. Free Wide-Open Spaces
Every town and village has some kind of wide-open space for your family to run about FOR FREE. Many of the parks & playgrounds in Croatia also have coffee shops very close by. You can find cafe bars that will set up super fun trampolines during summer, provide toys, or have swings to help ease boredom while enjoying your brew.
Kids can also run free for a meager entry fee into many of our nature parks, like Papuk. For a few Euros, the whole family can relax in nature.
23. Golubinjak Forest
For those looking for where to go in Croatia to be at one with nature, one of the best places is, without a doubt, Golubinjak Forest.
This place feels like a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, away from the tourism of major towns, and allows you to sit back and enjoy nature at its finest. Mother Nature did well here!
Golubinjak Forest is home to huge, unbelievable trees that seem to rise high above the cliffs surrounding them. The forest spanned a whopping 51 hectares and was declared a protected area in 1955.
The main entrance into the forest is through a gorgeous, fresh meadow, and you can sit and enjoy a bite to eat here before or after you venture into the forest. There is a children's playground around the forest if the kids need to burn some energy, and there is also a BBQ area if you want to eat al fresco.
Walkers will enjoy the many paths to follow, and you'll pass by the famous 'Queen of the Forest,' as well as sculptures in the rocks and the numerous ice caves – yes, even in the summer months!
24. Lokrum Island
Clearly visible from the top of Mt. Srd, the end of the Dubrovnik Cable Car, Lokrum Island, is accessible by boat from the Old Town. This lush Mediterranean island is only 600 meters from the Dalmatian mainland, yet the bustling city center of Dubrovnik is a world away. It's a fantastic day trip to take in Croatia with kids.
An easy ferry connection between Lokrum Island and the Old Town harbor is a scenic ride that doesn't last longer than 15 minutes. On this beautiful island, you can explore trails that run through fragrant forests and along rocky beaches. There's also a historic monastery and botanic garden, a children's playground, a small inland salt lake, and a snack bar.
Oh, and Mom's and Dad's, it's here you can sit on the Game Of Thrones, THRONE!
So, if your vacation in Croatia with the family includes a visit to Dubrovnik, we highly recommend going on a day trip to Lokrum Island.
25. Šibenik Falconry Centre
When traveling along the Dalmatia coast and looking for fun activities in Croatia for children, consider a visit to the Šibenik Falconry Centre. This is Croatia's only bird of prey center, located in the pine forests of Dubrava, less than 10 km from the city center.
Here, kids can get up close to various amazing birds of prey, such as hawks, owls, kestrels, and falcons. The center also rehabilitates sick or injured birds and is the only registered veterinary service for birds of prey in Croatia.
26. Horse Club Trajbar
Whether you have keen riders in your midst or not, the Horse Club Trajbar is a great place to take the kids. Not only can children interact with the horses, watch them in action, and 'ooh' and 'ahh' over them, but there is also an excellent cafe bar on site, which everyone will enjoy.
There is plenty of space for the kids to run; my two enjoyed the place for four solid hours! Oh, and on the terrace means everyone can soak up the sun while enjoying a cold drink or ice cream on the hot summer days. Pets are welcome here, too!
Several resident horses at the Horse Club, including Bonnie, Elf, and Piana, and the whole vibe is totally outdoorsy and full of fresh air. By the time you get back to your hotel, the little ones are sure to be half asleep - job done!
Horse Club Trajbar is located in Zapresic, close to the border with Slovenia. The cafe bar is open every day from 9 am until 11 pm.
27. Kuterevo's Bear Sanctuary
This is a must-do, but you'll probably want to bring one home! In Lika, you will find the Bear Sanctuary, where volunteers work to look after the orphaned bears that call the forest home. It requires a long drive into the countryside, but the kids will love this day out.
Remember, Croatia is a natural home to around 1000 brown bears, but they are at extreme risk due to hunting and other natural issues that are occurring in our world today. This sanctuary does some fantastic work, looking after injured and orphaned bears, and you can see them for yourself and learn more about them from the volunteers themselves.
Kid-Friendly Cultural & Historic Activities
28. Klis Fortress
Klis Fortress is a historical gem perfect for families who love exploring. Perched above the village of Klis, this fortress offers breathtaking views and a chance to walk through history.
Kids and teenagers can let their imaginations run wild, picturing epic battles and royal sagas. It’s a real-life history lesson, far more engaging than any textbook. The fortress is not only a treat for history buffs but also for young adventurers who can roam the ancient walls and discover hidden nooks and crannies.
29. Diocletian’s Palace - UNESCO World Heritage Site
Exploring Diocletian's Palace in Split is like stepping back in time, but with a twist that keeps it interesting for kids and teens. This ancient Roman palace is a bustling hub filled with shops, cafes, and street performers.
It's a unique blend of the old and the new. Youngsters can explore ancient halls and Roman ruins, then grab a gelato and watch the world go by in the lively courtyards. It's an educational trip that doesn't feel like one, making history accessible and enjoyable for the younger crowd.
30. Nikola Tesla Technical Museum Zagreb
Science and education go hand in hand, but there's plenty of fun to be had here, too! The city of Zagreb is home to the Nikola Tesla Technical Museum, which has been in operation since 1954 and is actually located in some historic and protected buildings that the Zagreb Fair initially owned. Fun fact!
Inside the museum, you'll find thousands of artifacts and items related to science and technology throughout history, dating back to the industrial era in the 19th century. There are also daily talks and presentations, including workshops and hands-on, interactive fun. Just be sure to look at the timetable as we missed them.
The Planetarium is also a fun spot to visit. Throughout the year, various events occur, such as the Science Festival, so check out whether there is anything special close to your time of visiting.
This is an excellent activity in Croatia for kids, especially if they love science and especially on a rainy day.
31. Dance In The Dark
Absorbing the sunlight during the day, the Greeting to the Sun in Zadar lights up at night. Let your kids rock out to the incredible music show.
32. Town Of Bale
Picturesque Bale is a small town made entirely of stone. It reminds me very much of one of the sets from Game of Thrones. Located in the southwestern part of Istria, just 20km away from the city of Pula, is where you will find one of my newest favorite Croatian towns. This town is made up of 48% Italians and is officially bilingual.
Once in Bale, the kids will love Bale. The maze of cobblestone streets is perfect for kids to explore, and the neatly restored houses are a treat. Best of all, Bale is just 7km from the Adriatic Coastline, so you can go for a swim after exploring.
33. Dubrovnik Cable Car
The iconic Cable Car is one of the absolute top tourist attractions in Dubrovnik. Soaring high above the city's famed red rooftops, it runs from the Old Town to the summit of Mt. Srd, home to the historic Imperial Fortress. This is easily one of the best things to do in Croatia with kids if you're exploring the Dalmatian coast.
The views from the top are arguably the best in the entire region. After the short and fun ride with the Dubrovnik Cable Car, you can gaze out over the shimmering Adriatic Sea and its numerous islands while the picturesque Old Town sits below. A restaurant and bar overlook the coast, offering respite to hungry and thirsty visitors.
You and the kids can also explore hiking trails, visit the fascinating Dubrovnik Homeland War Museum, and shop for souvenirs at the Coin Blacksmithing Shop and Ohrid Pearl Shop.
Kid-Friendly Interactive Activities
34. Travel Scavenger Hunt
There are so many sites to be found across Croatia; why not make a fun game out of looking for them with the kids?
One suggestion would be to find as many water pumps in Zagreb as possible. Sounds dull? No way, look at these pumps that have been transformed by the Pimp My Pump Zagreb crew.
You may want to get involved in Geocaching, the real-world outdoor treasure-hunting game where you use your GPS device to hunt down a cache.
35. Jadera Secrets
Another great interactive experience is Jadera Secrets in Zadar. Complete challenges together as a family as you learn about and walk through Zadar's Old Town.
36. Museum Of Illusions (Zadar & Zagreb)
The Museum of Illusions, with locations in both Zadar and Zagreb, is a wonderland for curious minds. Ideal for families, this museum offers interactive exhibits that challenge perceptions and engage all the senses.
Kids and teenagers will love the mind-bending illusions and fun puzzles. It's an excellent place for some quirky family photos and an even better way to learn about science, optics, and psychology in a playful environment.
A visit here is not just entertaining; it's an opportunity to see the world in a new and exciting way.
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Kid-Friendly Adventure & Water Parks
37. Zoom Along Croatia's Fastest Zip Lines... Weeeeeee!
Mr. Chasing the Donkey is a safety freak - and he not only endorses these, but he also loved a few of them so much he wants to go back and do them all again. Some have a minimum age or weight limit to take part, but the good news for you is that there is no maximum age.
Several new ziplines are undoubtedly worth a visit for any family who loves adrenaline! Here are some of our favorites:
Several new ziplines are undoubtedly worth a visit for any family who loves adrenaline! Here are some of our favorites:
Omiš Zipline
Read all about the eight zip lines, costs, and details in this Zipline Omiš article.
Sibenik Zipline
You can head off on your own steam or go on a guided tour into the National Park, close to the famous Skradinski Buk waterfall. Here, you’ll find a 14km long zipline, which reaches speeds of 70km/h.
There are three lines, one at 250m, 500m, and 650m in length, and you get to see the impressive Cikola River Canyon right way up high.
Pazinska Jama – Pazin Zipline
Pazin is home to a thrilling ziplining adventure that the kids will love. There are four lines; the first two are 80m long and then move towards the larger lines, crossing over the vast canyon below. The next line reaches 200m, and you’ll reach speeds of up to 50km/h at 100m high. The fourth line is the longest, at 280m, and the view below is stunning, including being able to spot a medieval castle.
The whole experience takes just under one hour.
Krk Island Zipline
Close to the Glagolitic Trail on Krk Island, you’ll find a new ziplining adventure that will show you stunning scenery and get your adrenaline pumping. The kids will love it! The top section of the biplane will show you the entire island and the overall experience will take about two hours along several different ziplines.
The day starts with a canopy tour, and you also have the usual safety demonstrations. From there, there are eight lines, reaching maximum speeds of up to 80 km/h! Prices vary but are usually around the 390HKN mark, with everything included.
Lika Zipline
Lika is home to the fastest and longest zipline in Europe! The lines opened in April 2017, and there are 20 lines in total, making this a must-do if you have a family of adrenaline junkies! The longest line is 1700m and reaches speeds of up to 100km/h.
There is also a cafe, golf, cycling, and climbing facilities on-site, so you could easily make a whole day of it.
38. Amazinga
This indoor adventure park in Zagreb is a must for families who need to get some energy out.
The park offers trampolines, go-karting, laser tag, a rope course, a climbing wall, arcade games, bumper cars, a virtual reality park, and even a soft play area for smaller kids. Grab snacks or lunch at the restaurant on site and make a day of it.
There's something to enjoy for all ages at Amazinga!
39. Zaton Adventure Park
Located in Zaton, this is a place where kids will be able to run free and run off plenty of steam.
This is a great place to go if you stay in the Zaton Camping grounds (that resort has a swimming pool complex, a beach section, several playgrounds, and an activity park dedicated to smaller children). This adventure park is just minutes from the resort.
40. Hit A Water Park
If you're taking a Croatia family vacation, you need to add this to the list of fun things to do on Croatia holidays with kids.
On of our favorite waterparks is Aquapark Istralandia.
Located in Istria, north-west Croatia, Istralandia is just 15 mins from Novigrad. Packed with over 1.2km of slides, various-sized swimming pools, volleyball & badminton courts, an amphitheater, and five restaurants, Aquapark Istralandiais sure to make the whole family happy.
This water park is less than three years old, and being so new, it's no surprise the designers went above and beyond and created Croatia's tallest water slide, which is a whopping 27 meters up in the air. Wowzers. Don't tell me that the kids and you won't love that.
If the tallest water slide in Croatia is too much for you, ahem, I mean the kids, check out the family rafting slide. Get cozy on one big raft and cheer with delight as a family ride all the way to the bottom.
The aquapark has all of the conveniences a family needs for a stress-free day out, including lockers, ATMs & first-aid, and for those teenagers who don't want to be seen dead with you - they can laze about using the park's free wi-fi.
Traveling to Croatia can be fun for the entire family. Have you been inspired? Let us know your thoughts on this list of things to do in Croatia with kids.
Bonus Kids Travel Tips
Traveling with toddlers, babies, kids, and heck, even teenagers can seem daunting - but it need not be.
Despite being excited about the place you're going to, the thought of travel can bring anxiety and stress. If you're traveling with kids, there's even more chance for stress. But all you need to do is plan ahead to avoid the added stress of traveling with a little one. Try a few of these:
- Always plan for safety first and foremost. Do you have a proper child seat? Is it installed correctly? Do you have a first aid kit, necessary medications, and sunscreen?
- Plan and pack accordingly. It would be best to start planning and packing well in advance whenever possible so you don’t feel rushed and forget anything
- Bring along games and toys your kids will love. For example, pack little “travel kits” with crayons, paper, and other travel items to keep your toddler from getting bored
- Plan around your child’s sleep schedule when possible. If you are going for a long drive, you can plan part of the drive when your children are expected to sleep. Less whinging is always a bonus
- Plan where your youngest kids can sleep safely. Find the infant/toddler travel bed that works for you!
- Find The Best Travel Cribs Here
- Read The Full Hotel Review Of Amarin Family Hotel Here.
- Best Family Accommodation In Croatia
- What Language Is Spoken In Croatia
- Beach Vacation Packing List With A Toddler
- Tips To Survive (And Enjoy) Your Next Family Trip
- Travel To Croatia With Three Boys
- Papuk Nature Park
- UNESCO Global Geoparks In Croatia
- Starigrad Paklenica & Paklenica National Park
I’m not a kid but I’d love to do a lot of these things anyway:)
Plitvice Lakes National Park is first on our list.
So many great tips on this list. We HAVE to visit Croatia soon! :D
yes, you must!
What a great list, SJ! I have to put Krka on my list now…swimming under a waterfall sounds completely decadent!
Thanks for the link love, SJ :)
I want to go zip lining!
Bout the only thing left you have not done.
;)
I love this! Even though I don’t have kids…I still want to do most of these activities in Croatia :)
Well I don’t have kids, but maturity-wise, I basically am one. ;) I can’t believe I didn’t go zip-lining when I was in Omis. Grrr, next time for sure!!
I know, what a waste. But I bet those cocktails by the beach were fab huh?
Great recs! The Pimp My Pump series looks like a lot of fun – those invented scavenger hunts will keep the little ones occupied.
Totally!
So many of these look fun!! Swimming under a waterfall, sailing, zip-lining… it all sounds amazing.
A travel scavenger hunt would be so fun! And I never miss a waterfall. I don’t have children, but these are great ideas even for solo travelers!
That’s s true! I never thought much about solo travellers before, but you are 100% right.
Great suggestions! Many that are fun with or without kids in tow :)
The first time we went to Plitvice my kids were 2 and 4 years old and they absolutely loved it. They were intrigued by the bears-stories and we went rowing ourselves in a small rowing boat (you can rent one at Kozjak lake). We walked (I m blessed with kids who like walking!) a lot indeed but they didn’t mind there was so much to see. Anyway the thing they loved most was that there were lots and lots of blue damselflies. They still have great memories of Plitvice until now…about ten years later.
What great memories. Lucky you, my 2-year-old refuses to walk long. So this place is out for us for a little while.
Hello, on behalf of Christa, host of The Sunday Traveler, I was stopping by to check out your article ‘Family vacation ideas: Fun things for kids to do in Croatia’. Love, love, LOVE this article! Very resourceful and informative. So many things sound wonderful and like they would make for a great time for the whole family. That swimming area behind the waterfall sounds enticing. I definately must be a big kid because there isn’t one thing on this list that wouldn’t jazz me, well except for the beach volley ball depending on how hot it is outside and so perhaps I’d leave that one for the real kids. Lol
I am glad this jazzed you up – that word jazz made me jazzy :) And I agree no beach volleyball for me either.
Haha the first thing I thought – good luck getting the teens off their smartphones ;) But in all seriousness, there are so many fun activities for kids of all ages here! I think anything outdoors is great to keep them entertained, whether it’s a day at the beach or rafting or whatever! Croatia would be a great vacation for the whole family!
Yeah, well its worth a shot… right? Yup, agreed fun for everyone.
Love this list! It’s so great that there are so many varied activities and suitable for all ages and interests. We’d love to try white water rafting in Croatia or just visiting the National parks. Actually, we’d love to try all of the above! Of course, I’m inspired :)
Thanks for the shout out! Sorry I have been MIA. We moved out this morning! From my quick glance at your list, there are so many great ideas here, some we did and some I wish we would have had time to do!
You are welcome! Enjoy the move my dear!
Croatia seems like such a wonderful place to raise a family, SJ. No wonder you made this choice. There are so many fun things to do there and nature is so unbelievably beautiful. I have a grandson now and I’d like to bring him there when he grows up a little. Whitewater rafting is not exactly my cup of tea, but dancing under the stars is.
Yes, white water rafting may have to wait…. just till he is eight :)
I agree that the type of itinerary that I’d come up with versus without kids is completely different. It’s so great that you put together this list! I think my own youngsters would like a travel scavenger hunt. My teen boy would want to raft, and my girl would want to dance in the dark. (The middle kid would claim that nothing looks like fun and ask to be left in the hotel to play MInecraft. He drives me crazy.)
Ohhh LOL at the middle child. Maybe Minecraft style scavenger hunt??
So much great info! Thanks for coming to our linky party #FamilyTravelParty! I can’t wait to come visit Croatia now! Xx
It is bad, that I dont see any information about new aquapark aquacolors in Porec, wich was opened this year.
I visited aquapark Aquacolors in Porec this year and everything was perfect and i was absolutelly satisfied. Attraction were pretty cool and i think that everyone can find something special for himself. If you try to find more information about location, prices etc. You can find it on their website: http://www.aquacolors.eu
Bad? This article was written last year before that park opened. Glad you like it, but please don’t tell me ‘it is bad!’. Perhaps you should start your own travel blog and feel free to write all about the Aquaparks of Croatia.
Thanks – this is a great article! And Pimp My Pump…made me laugh out loud. Worth a detour to Zagreb just to hunt them out. Now I’m thinking that a few weeks with the kids this summer isn’t going to be long enough! Love your site btw :)
Wow, so many beautiful places in Croatia, and so many cool things to do. I’am visiting Hvar this summer
– Ida Sophie –
You have included so many great things. Rafting, dance in the dark, zip-lining… oh man! Can’t wait.
Just such a brilliant source of information I don’t know where to start. Let’s just say I have visited about 50% of the stuff you have listed and your facts and information are so spot on. Croatia is such a fantastic family friendly destination its hard to cover it all but you sure have done a champion job. Hope our paths cross one day. Ljepi pozdravi Anna + Oscar
This is really helpful, thank you. We are thinking of coming to Croatia at the beginning of August with our 2 year old. We have 10 days but don’t want to keep traveling around. Is there a good place to stay which means we can get to the city and the lakes. Any advice appreciated! Clare
Try Zadar, that way you can in between both Krka and Plitvice lakes and can travel to on day trips. Eg to Split, Omis, Sibenik, and some islands.
Hi, we are traveling with 5 kids, ages 8-13. We love all of your suggestions.
zip lining, rafting, waterfalls, dancing in the dark.
where would you suggest we stay?
Here are a list of our faves
Thank you! What area would you suggest to stay in and most convenient to make your home base? I’m just not sure how close everything is and traveling with 5 kids is not easy. Your website is so informative and awesome!
There is no one place to make a home base to see the whole country – that is impossible. Depending on how long you have here, and what you want to see will depend on where you make a base.
Wow, your guide is seriously on point! Thanks for hooking us up with all these juicy details. Can’t wait to hit Croatia now.
Thanks, wishing you and your family a great vacay.