This list of weird, interesting & unique things to do in Croatia is like no other; here is a stack of travel experiences we bet you’ve never had in Croatia.
If you’re looking and searching for unique things to do in Croatia for your upcoming vacation – this is the post for you!
I bet all you see advertised are the usual suspects, such as walking the UNESCO-certified walls of Dubrovnik, lists and lists of Croatia’s best beaches and islands to explore, or charming old towns and village suggestions.
And, no doubt, you have a list as long as your arm of historic sites and museums on your checklist for Croatia, not to mention the fairytale castles. Right?
They are all great. I know as I have many blog posts about them.
Most of them we suggest as the absolute must-see things to see and do in Croatia to everyone coming to Croatia.
But what if we told you there are dozens of unique experiences in Croatia that you’ve never had? You’d want to know, correct? If so, read on for unique things to enjoy in Croatia.
Unique Things To Do In Croatia
1. The Sinjska Alka: A Knights Tournament
If the sound of thundering hooves takes your breath away, this event is for you! Taking place each year on the 1st weekend of August in Sinj, the historical Sinjska Alka event was inscribed on the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2010. Essentially it’s an equestrian competition, where a device called the Alka is suspended 3.34 meters on a rope above the main street.
Riders strive to hit the Alka directly through the center circle of 33mm with their iron-tipped wooden lance of only 32mm in diameter as they gallop full speed down the main street. Music, feasting, street performers, and local crafts make this event great for the whole family!
When: August | More Info: Sinjska Alka
2. Rub Gregory of Nin’s Big Toe – Grgur Ninski
What? A toe? Gross! Nah, not a real toe. A metal one to bring you good luck.
Gregory of Nin was a bishop in the once capital of Croatia – Nin. Today, Gregory is treasured for opposing the Catholic church in Rome, which would not allow his request to introduce the national language into his religious services.
But in 926, he did it anyway so that worshippers would adequately understand the word of God.
You can rub his toe in Nin, which is an easy 20-minute drive from Zadar on the Adriatic Coast.
When: Year-Round | More Info: Things To Do In Nin
3. Join The Nikola Tesla Electric Vehicle Rally
The car race of the future. That’s a proper way to describe the Nikola Tesla Electric Vehicle Rally in Croatia, which has taken place for five consecutive years.
The LA Times back in 2014 dubbed the race the “quietest and most beautiful race in the world,” a statement with a lot of truth to it. Bringing together electric Tesla cars and Nikola Tesla’s birthplace, one of the world’s greatest inventors, the Nikola Tesla EV Rally is the only electric car race in the world of this kind.
4. Sunset Or Sunrise Olive Grove Tour
There is no shortage of olive oil producers in Istria, Croatia. Istria is world-famous for olive oil.
The Puhar family makes extra virgin olive oils produced from traditionally grown native olive varieties from their six-hectare grove. They also hand-pick all the olives – no machines are used in the picking process.
Yikes, that’s hard work.
In Vodnanj, near Pula, you can tour their property, the BRIST olive grove, with guided tours at either sunrise or sunset. These tours include loads of history, delicious oil tastings, and traditional Istrian food & wine (sunset tour only).
When: Year-Round
5. Jadera Secrets In Zadar
If you like escape rooms, you will love Jadera Secrets! Zadar recently welcomed this brand new tourist attraction, which will get your brain working, and your adrenaline pumping, and help you learn more about the city simultaneously.
The game is suitable for all ages, and although it is a game, you actually get to learn a lot about Old Town while you play. To complete the challenges, you must explore a very walkable part of the city, solve problems, and learn about Zadar’s history.
This game was a great way to spend a couple of hours exploring Zadar in a slightly different kind of way.
When: Year-Round | More Info: Jadera Secret Guide & Booking
6. Piknik Dubrovnik
Regarding travel, we all know that food is at the heart of many of our best travel stories. Picture this – imagine sitting on top of a mountain with the historic town of Dubrovnik spread at your feet, enjoying a gourmet picnic of local artisanal food with your closest friends. Better yet, you aren’t the one who prepared it!
Piknik Dubrovnik is a private gourmet picnic experience started by Alex Cram, a sassy female entrepreneur, in 2017. Since then, Alex has been creating and curating beautiful and unique picnic experiences for travelers who are after something different –
Piknik Dubrovnik has even been featured in the New York Times famous ’36-hours’ series.
When: Year-Round
7. Podolje Castle
Found in Samobor, this castle was initially built as a watchtower in the 17th century to defend against Turkish invasion. The same family has owned the property for 500 years and still lives hereafter, inheriting the property from the original owners (the Habsburg royal family).
It has been the filming site for both The Dirty Dozen and The Winds of War.
Additionally, some believe this small castle is haunted, with reports of strange sounds being heard from the attic in the middle of the night. Of course, the sounds could also be attributed to bats, but we’ll let you make the call!
Either way, it’s a unique building to look at when spending time in Samobor, and the family has a small soap-making business you can check out if you visit.
8. Enjoy An Electric Car Ride In Kunjevci
If you can’t afford the real electric car to be in the rally, you (and the kids) can head deep into the beautiful Spačva Forest in Slavonia and check out the local wildlife while enjoying a thrilling electric car ride. Kids will love this one, and you big kids, are you sure to love it too!
The forest itself is enormous, at 40,000 hectares, and is home to some of the oldest trees in Europe; it’s also home to mischievous wild pigs and majestic deer.
The electric cars are eco-friendly and designed for off-roading, so they are ideal for checking out Mother Nature’s most exceptional work.
If you can keep the kids quiet, you may be even as lucky as I was to spot a deer.
Costs vary, so it’s worth getting up-to-date information on the day, but overall, for a breath of fresh air, wildlife spotting, and plenty of fun, this is an excellent activity for all the family to enjoy.
When: Year-Round
9. Experience The Magic Of The Rijeka Carnival
Included in the list of “Top 500 European Events”, this is a festival you won’t want to miss should you find yourself in Rijeka, Croatia, come February. With a long history and fans worldwide, join the tens of thousands who make it to the festival each year.
Highlights of the event include an international parade, a children’s parade, a queen pageant, and a masked “Pariz-Baker” rally. Filled with lights, colors, costumes, drinks, sporting events, music, and more, celebrate Carnival as you’ve never celebrated!
When: February | More Info: Carnival In Croatia Tips
10. Track Down Dinosaur Footprints In The Brijuni Islands
If Jurassic Park made you dream of the day you could experience the celebrated “terrible lizards” for yourself, you’re in luck! Head to the Brijuni Cretaceous Park on Veliki Brijuni Island, where you can hunt for and examine over 200 dino footprints.
The island is part of the Brijuni archipelago and Brijuni National Park. Time to get your hands dirty and find the inner archaeologist you knew existed.
When: Year-Round | More Info: National Parks In Croatia
11. Cycle The Parenzana
This route was once a railway line that connected 33 different locations between Istria, Trieste, and Poreč. In the early 1900s, the railway closed after only being in operation for 33 years. However, it has undoubtedly left its mark on the region and is known for something else today.
Cyclists have become enamored with the old railway line and follow parts of it as a guide for their biking trail.
When: Year-Round
12. Town Of Hum Celebration Of The Election Of The Mayor
Each year on the Day of Hum, men from the parish elect their perfect according to an old tradition – engraving votes in wooden sticks. The town prefect is responsible for the parish, settling disputes in the town, and deciding penalties for disorderly conduct.
A fold festival, including delicate traditional dishes, homemade wine, and homemade brandy follow the election.
When: June | More Info: World’s Smallest Town – Hum
13. Stone Flower In Jasenovac
Completed in 1966, this flower consists of five cement petals. It is dedicated to the Jasenovac concentration camp victims, which was operated by the Independent State of Croatia (NDH) during World War II, which were allied with the German Reich.
Designed by famed sculptor Bogdan Bogdanović, the stylized Stone Flower in Jasenovac is a cement structure you can enter – at the roots – of the extensive flower – the idea being to help you remember those who died in the concentration camp which once sat on the same site.
14. Pillar Of Shame, Zadar
The pillar of shame was once used to strike fear in the locals. In the Middle Ages, this pillar was the site of local punishment. Bodies were chained to the pillar to be humiliated, mocked, and whipped.
You can find this pillar in the Zadar Roman Forum, which also happens to be the largest Roman Forum in Croatia. As you stand there, please take a look at the chips and places where the chains would have once held their captives.
Certainly one of the more unique things to do in the city!
When: Year-Round | More Info: Things To Do In Zadar
15. Walk The Second Longest Wall On The Planet, Mali Ston
This is one of the truly most unique things to do in Croatia – and one you can do with kids too.
During the Ragusan Republic, Ston held a tremendous amount of importance and was a significant fort area. You’ll find Mali Ston around an hour away from Dubrovnik, and it is home to the second-longest wall in the world, of course, after the Great Wall of China.
As another title, it is actually the longest in Europe. Check out the scenery, enjoy the history, and of course, the views. Don’t forget to dine on famous oysters while in town!
When: Year-Round
16. Cross The Hanging Bridge At Kriznica
If you have kids who love cycling, then a visit to Kriznica is a must-do. An island area with those iconic wide-open spaces and plenty of green nature all around, you’ll undoubtedly be able to tire the kids out before a good night’s sleep! There are flat spaces, undulating valleys, and hills – it’s a walking and cycling dream.
For a spot of adrenaline, there is a very famous bridge, which is actually a hanging bridge and takes a little bit of nerve to cross – well, at least it did for me – your kids will love it!
The bridge crosses the Drava River and leads over to the island. With plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy once you’re over the bridge, including a vast open park with slides and a place for a picnic (just be warned though, there are no toilets close by – just nature!). It’s undoubtedly worth shuffling your way over that shaking bridge!
When: Year-Round | Cost: Free
17. Watch A Donkey Race At Sali
Donkey racing is a yearly event in Sali, which is located on Dugi Otok Island. Sali’s cultural festival starts on a Friday and goes for two days so that you can make a weekend of it. Music performances, traditional food like grilled tuna and anchovies, along with Dalmatian a cappella singing are not-to-be-missed things to do at the event.
On Saturday, sporting events and festivities like bag races, tug-of-war, and scooter races, along with Sali Night – an illumination of the Port filled with boats, pop music, and traditional food fill the day.
Trke Tovarov, a series of donkey races, occurs along the quayside of Sali. The winner enjoys a slab of prosciutto. Then, the unique event is held on Sunday, the festival’s final day; the donkeys have the spotlight.
When: Typically 1st, weekend in August| Cost: Free
18. Flyboarding In Hvar
How does the thought of attaching a water jetpack to personal watercraft and flying high above the Adriatic sound? Flyboarding allows you to hover above the water and test your balance and nerves, but you can perform tricks.
If you want to experience the feeling of flying like Iron Man or swimming like a dolphin, then flyboarding is the perfect thing for you. Flyboarding is for everyone! It’s easy to learn, and you can be up in the air in just 10 minutes.
19. Pula Arena
As the largest city in Istria, Pula actually has quite a lot to offer tourists who want to get a feel for what Istria is really like – historically, culturally, and culinary. One of Istria’s handful of incredible coastal towns, historic Pula has one of the main airports on the Istrian peninsula. Therefore, it’s often used as a launching point for travelers looking to enjoy the peninsula, while few people actually stick around and explore Pula itself.
There is a strong Roman influence in Pula’s history, evidenced by the largely intact Roman coliseum that dominates the city’s center. The arena is an assuming presence in Pula; its stone walls visible from almost any point in the city.
This three-level coliseum may be much smaller than Rome’s, but it is no less impressive. The Arena was built in the 1st century AD and was used until the 5th century for gladiatorial fights and other mass spectacles.
20. Milk A Donkey
I swear, we don’t spend all day looking for donkey-related activities; they seem to find us.
On the Peljesac peninsula, you can visit a donkey farm, where you can learn about donkeys, receive a donkey riding certificate, taste donkey milk, and even have the chance to milk the donkey yourself. You can make a day of it by visiting the vineyards, going to the donkey farm, taking winemaking lessons, and ending the day with a 3-course dinner.
You can think of us when you are here and are having a great day with the donkeys.
21. Sky Dive Simulator Vugrek
Crafts Vugrek is a family-run business (since 1976) with a vertical wind tunnel.
The free fall simulator is open upon request and is located at Negro 7, Novi Golubovec, Krapina, near the Vuglec Breg winery.
Autumn is the best time to visit to see the magnificent colors of the fruits of the vineyard, enjoy a walking tour, participate in the grape harvest, and socialize with locals.
When: Upon Request | More Info: Website
22. Spy Peacocks On Lokrum
The islet of Lokrum is a small island 15 minutes from Dubrovnik. Lokrum was once home to Maximilian of Hamburg, who updated the horticulture of the island using species found from his travels worldwide, most of which are still flourishing today.
Plants weren’t his only contribution to the island – he also brought peacocks from the Canary Islands! The exquisite birds still call Lokrum home. If you hop on the ferry to check out this little gem, don’t be surprised if you cross paths with a peacock or two.
23. Be A Beer Specialist In Zagreb
Zagreb is home to many activities to enjoy, but it also has a great beer scene, specifically beers of the craft variety! If you love a glass or two (or maybe more), then a beer garden drenched in the sun is the place for you.
The Garden Brewery in Zagreb is a small brewery and bar where you can sample some delicious beers in wonderful surroundings. There is a restaurant on-site, too, so you can line your stomach a little if need be! You can also check out Beertija, Craft Room (non-smoking!), or Ro & Do
24. Try Your Hand At Adventure Sports In Omis
Omis is a small town with plenty of history and scenery to enjoy. On top of that, you can enjoy a whole host of adrenaline sports, thanks to the landscapes, which are rocky, watery, and downright vertical!
Try kayaking, rafting, canyoneering, rock climbing, and zip-lining; you name it, you’ll find it here. There are many centers around this area where you can learn and of course, do it all in safety.
25. Explore Modrič Cave
This cave exploration experience is thoroughly incredible. Is the idea of squeezing through a small opening amongst the rocks and entering into a vast cavern filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems appealing to you? For those people like us, who like a little adventure but don’t necessarily have the skills or ability, this is an activity you can definitely take part in – even kids can give it a go.
Marijan and his team are professional and fun and will look after you while in the cave. If you’re in the Zadar Region, you should unquestionably add this to your list of things to do while here.
When: Upon Request | More Info: Caves
26. Admire The Blue Cave Of Biševo
On the Croatian Island of Bisevo, in a bay called Balun, lies a Blue Grotto. It’s one of 26 caves on the tiny island. The Island of Bisevo is composed of limestone rock & is inhabited by just a handful of people all year round.
The cave, which was formed by erosion from the sea, is best visited around 11 and 12 each day – depending on the time of year you visit.
Once at the cave, you’ll be struck by the piercing blue hues of the cave, which are caused by sunlight reflecting through the water and bouncing off the white limestone bottom. You can take a boat tour through the cave, but no swimming is allowed.
When: Year-Round | More Info: Charter Your Own Boat
27. Morning Outdoor Shopping In Split
If you can manage to get up early enough, Split is home to many morning farmer’s markets, where you can purchase some delicious local fare. The stalls are bright, loud, and very colorful, and the whole experience will be one to remember. You can also check out a really authentic way of life here, away from the tourist trap.
Remember to purchase some delicious cheese locally produced, and head into the fish market to see what the fisherman caught overnight!
When: Year-Round | More Info: Things To Do In Split
28. Truffle Hunting In Istria
A truffle is a costly type of fungus, found nestled close to trees in just a few places worldwide. The scent and taste of truffles are unique. Truffles are extremely rare and can only be collected for a couple of months each year.
Istria happens to be home to world-known truffles, and not only can you sample these delicious mushrooms in a variety of dishes in the area, but you can hunt for them yourself with the guidance of professional truffle hunters and, of course, their truffle-sniffing canines. A unique experience for the foodies of the world.
When: Autumn for white truffles or all year round for the black beauties.
29. Horse-Riding/Ranch Visit
Every kid loves animals and the great outdoors in my experience. There is no need to keep shushing the kids to be quiet and use an indoor voice at a ranch.
Just 18km from Pula, you will find Ranch Barba Tone. Complete with horses, donkeys, goats, sheep, chicken, rabbits, turkeys, and more, this ranch is full of life for all ages to enjoy.
Take a horse ride out to sea, to area caves, or along the rocky Istrian countryside. For those looking for even more time in the saddle, opt for a weekend route that includes a great selection of cave, ranch, cove, and mill sites along the way.
There are many ranches around Slavonia, and I personally give you my parent seal of approval on each one after visiting each of them in 2018.
When: Year-Round
39. Walk Tito’s Secret Tunnels
Did you know tunnels were built in the side of the Velebit Mountains during the ’50s as a secret place of refuge had the USSR attacked the area via air? These cool, mysterious bunkers have been excavated and available for tourists to wander through, providing a unique Dalmatia experience.
If you’re heading to Paklenica National Park, don’t miss your chance to experience history beneath the mountain’s strong facade.
When: Year-Round
31. Visit Restno Arboretum
If you love gardens, and who doesn’t, then this is a spot you should have on your visit list.
Around 18km away from Dubrovnik itself, these gardens date back to the 1400s and have also been seen in the popular TV show, Game of Thrones. Of course, this means visitors tend to flock here, but if you can find a quiet time, you’ll really enjoy the backdrop of the glittering sea and the green of the gardens, with the odd ruin thrown in for good measure.
When: Year-Round
32. Try Your Hand At Cliff Jumping
Ever fancied the idea of jumping off a cliff? Perhaps you would if the scenery was enough to make your jaw drop! Istria is a cliff jumper’s dream location, especially if you head to Galebove Stijene Beach, which has some of the most imposing cliffs you’ll ever set your eyes on.
The water below is translucent, and basically, the scene is something to grab your attention! Some of the cliffs have an altitude of around 13 meters, which is indeed enough to get the blood pumping.
Of course, if you’re not feeling the love for adrenaline, you can sit on the beach, with the water lapping at your feet, and watch everyone else get their dose of adrenaline; the choice is yours!
Another cliff-jumping spot is in Dubrovnik. Head to Buza Bar, located on Dubrovnik’s southern side, to see what I mean.
33. Take A Road Trip
Driving in Croatia isn’t tricky, and you can hire a car from countless locations and experience plenty of unique things to do in Croatia.
Croatia really is a never-ending surprise. Am I right? How many of these unique things to do in Croatia have you already enjoyed?
We are in Croatia for the next 4 weeks and love to experience out of the norm things. Sky Zagreb looks awesome!
I have never been to Croatia but that is 6 reasons to go – well 4 or 5, a couple of them are just weird.
This donkey thing seems to be big business in Croatia!
When you get off the bus and walk across to Primošten, the first thing you see is a bronze sculpture – of a couple, and she is sat on a donkey.
At Tribunj, there is a bronze donkey on the waterfront as you cross to the island village?
You’re in good company with all your donkey chums :)
These were great! We always love exploring the quirky attractions and these are even more awesome reasons to visit Croatia. They may be bizarre but donkey milking and racing look fun. Though, the Sky Zagreb would probably be at the top of our list.
Thank you for promoting our Kastela! Besides “weird” activities, we’ve got a lot of nice, “ordinary” things to offer too… such as great food, even better wine and that unique “feels like the 60’s” atmosphere in the air. ;-)
Thank you for this list!
We have been to the pillar of shame and Lokrum, but I’m sad we missed the Tesla race. Would have loved to see that.
Hi there,
I’m contemplating on a 10-14 days mother and son trip to Croatia at the end of May 2024. There seems to be so many interesting places and fun things to do that I don’t know where to start! Seeing that you have 2 lovely boys, what places and activities would you suggest to make this a memorable trip for a 15 yr old? I’m thinking truffle hunting, kayaking tours, cave explorations, eating at konabo restaurants and even Croatia cooking classes could be fun for a teenager? Would love to hear your recommendations.
Many thanks.
Embarking on a 10-14 day trip to Croatia with your teen is an exciting prospect, especially towards the end of May when the weather is pleasant. You could start your journey in the stunning city of Dubrovnik, exploring its historic Old Town and perhaps trying a kayaking tour. Next, head to Split to soak in its vibrant mix of modern life and ancient ruins like Diocletian’s Palace. For a change of scenery, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-visit for its incredible waterfalls and hiking trails. The Istria region offers a unique experience with truffle hunting and exceptional local cuisine, perfect for food enthusiasts. For a dose of adventure, consider cave explorations in Biokovo Mountain or rafting on the Cetina River, both offering an adrenaline rush and a chance to witness Croatia’s natural beauty. Don’t miss Zadar for its unique Sea Organ and Sun Salutation installations. Mixing in a Croatian cooking class can be a fun and interactive way to learn about the local cuisine. And of course, make time to relax on some of Croatia’s beautiful beaches, like those on the Makarska Riviera, to unwind and reflect on your adventures. This itinerary balances historical exploration, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights, promising a memorable trip for you and your son.