Best time to visit Croatia: summer, spring or autumn?
Croatia is very seasonal. Temperatures, sea temperature, atmosphere and prices in high, shoulder and low season, and what closes outside summer.
Croatia is a very seasonal destination and the experience changes quite a lot by month. It depends on whether you're after beaches and nightlife or calm and good prices.
June to September: high season
This is the best time for an itinerary like ours, between Dubrovnik and Hvar. The average temperature is 25 to 32 °C and the sea is between 22 and 25 °C. The atmosphere is very lively, with nightlife, tourism and parties, and it's ideal if you want beaches, beach clubs, boats and a party. Keep in mind: prices are higher and there are more tourists, especially in Dubrovnik.
April, May and October: shoulder season
Temperatures are 18 to 25 °C, the water is a bit cold and the atmosphere is calmer. It's ideal for a relaxed trip, with fewer people and better prices. It's not the best for partying or for a full summer experience.
November to March: low season
It's 10 to 17 °C and the atmosphere is very quiet. Many things are closed, especially on islands like Hvar. We'd only recommend it if you're after cultural tourism without the beach.
Book ferries between islands in advance in high season: seats sell out faster than they appear to.
Our recommendation
If your plan includes beach clubs and boats, June to September. To see Dubrovnik with fewer people and pay less, May or September. Outside summer, check what's still open on the islands before you book. The full plan is in our 7-day Croatia itinerary, and the ferry in Dubrovnik to Hvar by ferry.
Our favorite activities in Croatia
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