Top 9 Cheap places to visit in Croatia

Whenever we think about traveling on a budget, we think about Asia and countries like Indonesia. And if you think about traveling cheaply in Europe, you might think about going to Romania. 

Regardless of your budget, Croatia is a massively underrated destination if we compare its tourist destinations and travel costs with those of the rest of Europe. With attractive islands, stunning beaches, peaceful walking areas, adventure, and National Parks, Croatia has everything.

At the same time, travel costs are not a big issue if you want to tour Croatia on a budget. So, if you need clarification on which European destination I should travel to next that will not break the bank, Croatia should be among the top destinations. Here are some cheap places to visit in Croatia.

1. ZADAR

Zadar is a coastal city in Croatia known for its rich history, charming old towns, and modern attractions; it is also equally economical.

Beaches like Borik Beach and Borik Sandy Beach offer enchanting views of the Adriatic Sea. Zadar Port is where you can see big cruises, and small boats can also navigate the sea. Apart from the beach (Morske Orgulje), the Sea Organ is also a place that tourists prefer, especially for viewing the sunset and swimming.

Historical landmarks, such as the Land Gate, the Church of St. Donatus, and the Five Wells Square, are among the places people like to visit. Moreover, the Archaeological Museum Zadar, the Museum of Ancient Glass, and the Museum of Illusion are there for those who love to visit museums.

Sailing, boating, snorkeling, and cycling are fun activities tourists in Zadar do. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $20 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $10-$20 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $25-$35 for one person per day.

2. ŠIBENIK

Šibenik is also a coastal city, mainly known for its eco-friendly and budget-friendly destinations. As it is a seaside city, pretty much any area near the seashore can be called a beach, especially public beaches, and the Beach by the Grove is famous.

On these beaches, you will see crystal clear water on the seashore with soft sands. On the back side of the Beach by the Grove, there is a big plot of land covered with trees, which tourists also loves to visit.

In that area, Pink Lake is among the most visited, which is famous for the pinkish-coloured water in the lake. Apart from these places, historical points of interest like St Nicholas’ Fortress, Dalmatian Ethno Village, and different cathedrals are famous among tourists, especially the Cathedral of St James.

Different parks, gardens, art museums, and aquariums can also be seen in this city. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $25 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $10-$20 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $25-$35 for one person per day.

3. ROVINJ

Rovinj is a coastal city where houses are packed together near the seafront. This place is a blend of natural and artistic allure. Beaches like Cisterna Beach, Cuvi Beach, and many other beaches are there, which tourists love.

The water is crystal clear here. On the back of the beach, Park Forest Zlatni Rt is located, which is covered with greenery and trees and offers stunning views of the Adriatic Sea from high hills and beaches.

Here, you will also find marinas, especially the Port of Rovinj, where you can travel to different islands near Rovinj and navigate the waters. Regarding places to visit in the central city, the Church of St. Euphemia, Monkodonja Hill Fort, Balbi Arch, and Trevisol Street are famous among tourists.

Cycling, rock climbing, sailing, and water sports are also loved by tourists. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $40 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $10-$20 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $20-$30 for one person per day.

4. TROGIR

Trogir is a beautiful place to visit in Croatia. One part of this city is on a different island, making it more beautiful. However, Attractive beaches like City Beach Trogir and other spots will give you enchanting views of the seaside.

At the same time, marinas are also there where you can take a boat to the other side of the city, which is equally beautiful. In this city, you will also see the historic buildings of Trogir, such as The St. Lawrence Cathedral, Bell Tower, Central Square of Trogir, Fortress Kamerlengo, Palace Cipiko, and Marmont’s Monument.

Apart from these places, there are plenty of other areas as well. But for adventure lovers, this place also has mountains on the back side of the central city, where you can go if you love to go to the mountains.

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $26 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $15-$25 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $25-$35 for one person per day.

5. KORČULA

Korčula is a small town in Croatia. It is known as one of the best destinations for those seeking cheap and eco-tourism. This town consists of islands.

Because it is on the seashore, you can enjoy your time on the beach and enjoy the fantastic views of different islands. You can also use boats to navigate across the lake and go to other islands that are close.

For those who love to visit the greenery, the whole area at the back of the central city is covered with jungle and greenery. If we talk about the main attractions in the central city, then St. Mark’s Cathedral, Korcula Town Museum, and Kula Svih Svetih are there, which tourists always love to visit.

But when it comes to going to a place where you can view the whole area, Forteca is there for you. Do remember that Korcula is an entire island, and what is described above is just a town of that island.

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $18 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $10-$20 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $25-$35 for one person per day. 

6. PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Plitvice Lakes National Park is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and serene surroundings. It is arguably the most beautiful national park not only in Croatia but also in Europe.

The admission ticket may cost you between $30 to $50, but it is worth the price. Here, you will see a stunning landscape covered with beautiful trees. At the same time, waterfalls from the high hills surrounded by trees are so satisfying.

You will also see different lakes here with varying watercolors; in some lakes, the color of the water will be crystal green, and in some, crystal blue. You may sit in one place and embrace the beauty of walking through the forest. And if you want, some small boats and ferries will navigate you across the lake. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation near Plitvice Lakes National Park costs around $23 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $20-$30 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $30-$50 for one person per day.

7. CRES

Cres is an island town in the Adriatic Sea. This island is mainly for those who love natural scenery, as it is mostly about natural wonders.

Most of the area on this island is covered with trees, making it one of the go-to places for eco-tourism. Apart from this, from some distance, beaches like Olec Beach and Mali Bok (Small Cape) Beach are famous, where you can enjoy the sea view from the sand and from rocky hills.

If we talk about historical landmarks and architectural beauty, then St. Francis Friary and Church and Cres Museum are there. And as I mentioned above, this place is mainly suitable for those who love greenery so you can enjoy the natural beauty. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $40 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $15-$25 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $25-$35 for one person per day.

8. LOŠINJ

Far from the hustle and bustle of cities lies Losinj Island. This island, unlike any other in Croatia, has living space close to the seashore.

Behind that, the whole area is covered with plants and trees, making it suitable for green tourism and cheap overall. Attractive beaches like Vela Draga Beach, Veli Žal Beach, and Zabodarski Beach offer enchanting views of the Adriatic Sea with greenery on the side, making them more attractive for tourists.

Here you will also see boats and ferries which you can use to roam around the sea. Apart from these places, destinations like the Museum of Apoxyomenos, the Tower of Veli Losinj, and the Annunciation of Mary are also visited by tourists for their architectural beauty or historical importance. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation costs around $70 per night for one person.
• There is no available data on transportation and food costs for this specific city.

9. KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Situated along the Krka River is Krka National Park. This national park is also one of the most attractive pieces of nature. Here, you will see many areas covered with forests, and small and mid-range mountains are also covered in greenery, giving an enchanting view of the park.

However, the most prominent thing about this national park is the waterfalls. These waterfalls are surrounded by a lush green area, and then the crystal clear water from the hills looks refreshing.

You can use a boat to navigate around Krka Lake as well. 

TRAVEL COST

• Skyscanner and Kayak are among the best websites for finding affordable flight tickets.
• Accommodation near Krka National Park costs around $22 per night for one person.
• Local transport can cost around $15-$25 per person daily. (Depends on your need)
• On average, food can cost around $20-$40 for one person per day.

FAQ’s