The most beautiful villages to visit in Croatia

If you're looking for a Mediterranean adventure filled with culture, nature and food, the villages of Istria and other regions in Croatia are a must-see. Croatia has it all, from picturesque villages perched on stunning hills to coastal sun-soaked villages.

Are you looking for an adventure in a small, relatively unknown Croatian travel destination? Pack your bags and join us as we explore Croatia's most beautiful villages!

1. Motovun
2. Groznjan
3. Vrbnik
4. Ston
5. Skradin
6. Cavtat
7. Hum
8. Pučišća

Motovun, a picturesque village perched on a hill

1. Motovun

Motovun, which dates back to the 12th century, is one of Istria's best-preserved medieval villages, located just 1 hour from Pula. Perched on a hill 227 meters above sea level, its breathtaking views of the natural landscape are among the top attractions of this small village. Its white buildings with salmon-colored roofs appear to spiral up a hill to a double-walled castle, creating a nice backdrop for your photoshoots.

After you've finished uphill walking, grab a coffee or a drink and take in the scenery. Motovun is also known as a truffle-tastic village, so don't leave without trying some of the local truffle delicacies. If you visit Motovun during the summer, you can attend an open air screening under a starry sky as part of the Motovun Film Festival.

Interesting fact: Motovun's largest truffle ever discovered weighed 1.2 kg.

2. Groznjan

If you're a fan of art, you gotta check out the village of Groznjan. It's known as a haven for artists and performers, so it's no surprise that the town has a bit of an artistic vibe. After checking out one of the 40 galleries, take a walk around the streets and you'll be treated to live music.

At an altitude of 260 metres above sea level, Groznjan is surrounded by stunning views of all of Istria. It's also famous for its local produce, from olives to wine. The streets of Groznjan are lined with quaint medieval restaurants that serve up the region's famous cuisine but you can also taste the different varieties of Istrian wines on agricultural farms.

Tip: if you are visiting Groznjan in July, don't miss out on the Jazz Festival.

Strolling over the cobblestoned alleys of the magnificent Groznjan

3. Vrbnik

Vrbnik is a small town located on Krk island, overlooking the Adriatic Sea. Vrbnik is renowned for having the world’s narrowest street. The town is also known for its unique white wine: Vrbnička Žlahtina.

In Vrbnik, the streets are narrow, the roofs are red and the architecture is really impressive, with hidden passages and arches all over the place. The water is crystal clear and the beaches are beautiful, making it a great place to visit in the summer. The traditional folk music that is played at festivals and celebrations is also part of the charm of the town.

One of the world's narrowest street, in Vrbnik

4. Ston

Ston draws visitors because of its proximity to Dubrovnik and its rich history. The Ston peninsula is home to some of Europe's most impressive defensive walls, as well as salt pans, making it a popular destination for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. To get to Ston, travelers can take the ferry from the nearby town of Korcula to Orebic.

If you're looking for a great hike, Ston is the place to go! It has the longest fortified system in Europe, built in 14th century, and it's 7 km long. The views from the walls are amazing, but you'll need some good hiking shoes. And if you're a gourmet, you'll love the oysters here - they're super fresh and delicious!

The breathtaking view from the walls of Ston

5. Skradin

Situated on the banks of the river Krka and only 1.5 hour from Split, the picturesque village of Skradin, with its pastel-colored houses, is the entrance to Krka National Park. Skradin's main attractions are the beautiful port, the charming old town and the famous waterfalls of Krka. Just beyond the village is the beginning of a stunning natural landscape, among the most breathtaking in Croatia.

You should definitely check out the many churches in the area, like the Mother of God Church with its 18th-century bell tower and St. Spiridon's Orthodox Church. Plus, there are tons of great restaurants and cafes in the old town and plenty of small stores like boutiques, wine shops and souvenir shops to explore.

Tip: check out more parks and natural reserves in Croatia.

Skradin, a card postal village

6. Cavtat

Cavtat is a hidden gem on the Mediterranean Sea, with over 250 sunny days per year and panoramic views of the capital, Dubrovnik. This tiny peninsula is worth a visit if you don't like crowds. It is best known for its mediterranean vegetation, which covers the entire peninsula.

Cavtat is a popular summer destination due to its many attractions, such as the Rector's Palace, the baroque St. Nicola's church, the Franciscans' monastery, and its many picturesque beaches. Additionally, the city offers a 7 km promenade lined with picturesque pine forest paths, only a few meters away from the sea, and a variety of bars and restaurants along the waterfront.

Water sports with a scenic background in Cavtat

7. Hum

Hum is often mentioned as the smallest city in the world, renowned for its beautiful stone houses and cobblestone streets. Hum is also considered to be one of the most ancient centers of glagolitic (slavic) script, which was used until the nineteenth century. Glagolitic scripts are still found in the old town.

Hum is a great place to visit if you're looking for a medieval town experience. You can wander through the old stone streets, past the old houses and churches, and sample some of the local food. Plus, you'll be surrounded by the hills and lush green landscape of the Istrian countryside, making it perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Interesting fact: according to legend, Hum was built with the rocks left over from when the giants built the cities around it.

Taking in the past in the wondrous village of Hum

8. Pučišća

Pučišća is a stunning spot on Brač island, renowned for its stunning white limestone architecture and picturesque harbor. All of its craftsmanship is done by stone carvers from the Klesarka Skola, a school that started in 1909 and uses only the best limestone from the region.

The influence of stonemasons can be seen all over Pučišća in the form of modern sculptures, lamp posts and beautifully constructed stone houses with white-paved roofs that add to the charm of the area. The school exhibitions are very popular with tourists and you can bring some souvenirs home with you. You can also visit nearby beaches, beautiful landscapes of coves and many restaurants that serve traditional Dalmatian cuisine, particularly lamb specialities.

Tip: sports enthusiasts can go cycling, scuba diving or water-skiing in Pučišća.

 A sunny day in Pučišća

If you want to get off the beaten path and visit some of the most beautiful villages in Croatia, check our Map of ferries, book your ferry tickets to the main ports of Croatia and plan your next adventure!

Tip: if you wish to reach your favorite Croatian village starting from Italy, find out all about ferry routes from Italy to Croatia on Ferryhopper.