Tips for Traveling in Croatia with Kids
Kids love the beach. It’s a good place to play with the gentle waves, befriend some marine life, and build the biggest sand castle they can make. But if it’s the family’s first time in a country filled with stunning coastlines and adventurous trails, you must carefully decide if it’s a good place to travel with children.
Croatia exhibits what we mentioned above. The beautiful turquoise seas, historic cities, and contemporary structures invite every traveler who wants to live the best life this world can offer. Despite the endless possible chores, many people aren’t sure if the place is only suitable for couples and solo travelers or if it is also a family-friendly haven.
The quick answer is YES: Croatia is an ideal place for families. However, the organizers must make the right choices to make it more enjoyable for every member.
Choose Family-Friendly Destinations
The first thing to look for is a family-friendly area. Some topographies may not be suitable for children and elders, so pick a place near destinations where the younger members can safely play.
Fortunately, most of Croatia cater to families. Some of the most popular family-friendly places are the following:
- Dubrovnik: Home to beautiful beaches and historic city walls. That said, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik, has plenty of activities for children. The cable car ride to Mount Srđ is a must for breathtaking views.
- Split: This region is home to the historic Diocletian’s Palace, beautiful waterfront promenade, and other nearby islands. If your family is full of adventurous souls, split may be an interactive place for your kids.
- Istria: Towns like Poreč and Rovinj have charming streets, family-friendly beaches, and more attractions like the Dinopark in Funtana.
Plan Your Itinerary with Kids in Mind
It’s tempting to fill your itineraries with as many sights and stops. However, you must consider possible hiccups when kids are involved.
Limit the number of destinations, and don’t try to sneak everything into a day’s activity list. There’s a chance things won’t turn as expected, so avoid creating a hectic schedule that’ll only stress out everyone. For starters, choose a few key destinations and explore them thoroughly.
Consider the downtime and schedule a break for your kids. You should allot more time exploring parks, playgrounds, and beaches. Take your kids to aquariums, zoos, or adventure parks like the Sky Fox, Biograd, and Glavani Park.
Embrace the Outdoors
Croatia’s natural wonders are the biggest tourist magnets. Its beaches are among the best in Europe. To make the most of the vacation, lock those gadgets away and remind everyone to go out and not waste time in the hotel.
Many beaches have shallow waters. Facilities like showers and changing rooms are available in Zlatni Rat on Brač Island and Baška Beach on Krk Island, making them ideal for families.
Croatia also boasts several national parks. You can enjoy hiking and boat rides at Plitvice Lakes and Krka. If your family loves cycling, many Croatian areas have bike rental services. Cycling is a better way to explore coastal areas compared to tourist vans and buses.
Stay in Family-Friendly Accommodations
Choosing the right place to stay can make a huge difference. Vacation rentals like Croatia Luxury Rent offer villas with plenty of spacious rooms. Some even provide interconnected rooms for flexibility. These accommodations are more practical than hotels as they have kitchens.
Other amenities to look for include swimming pools, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs. Some resorts offer babysitting services, giving parents a chance to relax.
Taste the Local Cuisine
Croatian cuisine is delicious and diverse, with plenty of options that will appeal to children. Introduce your children to Croatian specialties like fresh seafood. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly portions and options.
Croatian markets are vibrant and full of fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods. Let your kids pick out some local snacks to try. Although the place has many local food stores, always have some snacks on hand for long outings or when you can’t find a suitable place to eat.
Make the Journey Fun and Safe
Traveling in Croatia is already an adventure. You can take a car, ferry, or train with your family, and they are all entertaining.
However, car travel is a more convenient means of touring. If you plan to do so, schedule stops at scenic spots. Instead of bringing gaming gadgets or tablets, take books and travel games with you to keep the children occupied.
Riding the ferry is another brilliant way to explore Croatia’s many islands.
Public transport can also be a fun experience for kids. Be sure to bring snacks ready for the long journey.
For safe travel, bring sun protection, gear for water safety, a first-aid kit, and other necessary medications. Keep a list of important contact numbers and share it with everyone. Don’t forget to teach your kids how to use a map.
Engage with the Local Culture
Croatia’s rich culture is perfect for children who love history books. Let them learn about the history of Croatia by taking them to the Roman ruins in Pula or Dubrovnik’s medieval walls.
Before your flight, check the tourist calendar for local festivals that would take place during your visit. These can be a fun way to experience Croatian culture firsthand. Teach your kids a few basic Croatian phrases so they can enjoy interacting with the friendly locals.
