A Campervan Trip Through Croatia

Are you planning to explore Croatia by campervan and looking for the most charming places for your trip? After our eventful road trip through Montenegro, we continued our journey in Croatia. Here, we had the opportunity to explore some of the most enchanting spots. Join us on our discovery tour through Croatia.

During our road trip through Montenegro, we were captivated by the breathtaking natural beauty and picturesque views. But as we crossed the border into Croatia, we knew even more impressive adventures awaited us.

With its scenic towns, stunning beaches, and rich culture, this Adriatic country has so much to offer.

Croatia by Campervan: The Best Route & Helpful Tips

• Dubrovnik
• Autocamp Sirena & Plaža Podrače
• Split
• Pula
• Rovinj

Dubrovnik: A Touch of Magic Despite the Rain

When we reached our destination in Croatia, we were greeted by heavy rain, forcing us to spend the first two days at the campsite.

Once the weather finally cleared, we took the opportunity to explore Dubrovnik. The city certainly didn't disappoint, proving absolutely charming despite the crowds of tourists.

The historic stone architecture gave Dubrovnik a special allure, and the numerous restaurants and shops brought the atmosphere to life.

The spectacular sunset we watched from the cliffs outside the city walls was particularly impressive. An unexpected highlight was the magnificent rainbow that made the moment even more magical.

Our campsite during our stay was called "Laguna Autocamp." In good weather, it offered a pleasant ambiance with a beautiful beach and good facilities. However, in the rain, it unfortunately turned into a rather uncomfortable, muddy terrain.

BackNext

Croatia by Campervan: Breathtaking Beaches in Brela

The drive along Croatia's coastal road was a true adventure, rewarding us with magnificent views of the picturesque coastline and the vast sea.

Along the way, we stopped at some breathtaking beaches like Plaža Podrače and Punta Rata. The beauty of these places truly took our breath away.

For the night, we decided to set up camp at a very appealing campsite. This campsite offered pitches directly on the coast.

The facility had a fantastic beach that practically invited us to spend a day by the sea. An on-site restaurant provided culinary delights, and the facilities were first-class.

This campsite was called "Autocamp Sirena."

BackNext

Split: Historic Beauty and Culinary Delights

In the morning, we set off towards Split. Our first stop led us to "Tinel Specialty Coffee Shop," where we treated ourselves to refreshing, iced lattes.

We enjoyed these delightful drinks at Split's harbor, taking in the view of the water. Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll through the old town.

Here, picturesque architecture and charming, winding alleys invited us to wander.

We spent lunchtime at "Mediterraneo Restaurant," which was located away from the main tourist areas but impressed us with its excellent food. The cuisine and the location complemented each other perfectly, giving us the opportunity to spend a lovely time away from the hustle and bustle.

Our journey then took us to the "Blue Eye of Croatia," about an hour's drive inland from Split. This part of our journey was rather spontaneous, but we were rewarded with an authentic and charming area.

Arriving at the "Blue Eye," we were overwhelmed by its natural beauty. The clear, fresh water practically invited us to swim and relax for a few hours. It was a true oasis of relaxation and an unexpected discovery on our trip.

The events of this day showed us once again how varied and spontaneous a trip can be. From delicious lattes at Split's harbor to a charming old town stroll and the unexpected idyll of the "Blue Eye," we had the opportunity to experience unforgettable moments and explore the country in all its diversity.

BackNext

Croatia by Campervan: Pula

From the "Blue Eye," we embarked on a long drive along the coast to Pula, reaching the city late at night.

To get to the beach park, we drove two kilometers down a bumpy gravel road, but despite the unevenness, the route was quite manageable.

The next morning, we woke up alone on the coast, with an incredible view of the sea. Our only company was a few passing fishermen and the soothing sound of the waves, accompanied by some seagulls.

This spot proved to be a wonderful place to spend the night. A small beach, though a bit difficult to reach, contributed to the relaxation, as few people passed by.

The exact location of this idyllic overnight spot is "44°48'15.7"N 13°59'40.2"E." The seclusion, the breathtaking sea view, and the opportunity to experience nature in its undisturbed splendor made this place a special discovery on our journey.

BackNext

Rovinj

From the beach camp, it takes about an hour to reach Rovinj, a delightful coastal town with a touch of Italian flair.

The colorful houses, narrow streets, charming cafes, and restaurants give this town its special charm. Rovinj is undoubtedly an enchanting place waiting to be explored.

In the morning, we visited "Augusto Coffee Shop" and enjoyed a cup of coffee there.

For lunch, we stopped at "Tunaholic Fish Bar" and savored a delicious tuna burger. These culinary experiences rounded off our stay in Rovinj.

After extensively strolling through the old town and exploring all the picturesque corners, it was time to end our Balkan trip.

With many new impressions and memories, we finally made our way home to Austria. Rovinj was the perfect conclusion to our journey and left us looking back with a smile.

BackNext

Other Spots in Croatia You Should See

Unfortunately, towards the end of our trip, due to unexpected circumstances, we ran out of time and couldn't visit some wonderful places in Croatia. Therefore, we'd like to offer you some additional suggestions for your journey.

Krka National Park

Krka National Park captivates with its shimmering emerald-green water and a breathtaking backdrop of seven magical waterfalls. This park is an oasis of natural beauty and offers visitors an unforgettable experience.

The Krka River, flowing through the park, not only reveals its spectacular waterfalls but also leads to historical treasures. The remains of ancient Roman fortifications along the river tell tales of past times and add a fascinating historical dimension to the landscape. The combination of nature and culture in this park is truly unique.

But that's not all: Krka National Park is also known for its 30 watermills, which once played an important role in the daily life of the region. Today, many of these mills are restored and offer visitors insights into the traditional use of hydropower and the region's heritage.

Exploring Krka National Park allows visitors to lose themselves in a world full of colors, sounds, and aromas. The paths leading along the river constantly offer new perspectives on the spectacular waterfalls and the surrounding nature.

This combination of scenic beauty and cultural heritage makes Krka National Park an indispensable destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and travelers seeking unique experiences.

Croatia by Campervan: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia is not only the most famous but also the oldest national park in the country. It has been inscribed on the UNESCO World Natural Heritage list and gained additional fame as a filming location for the Winnetou movies.

The park's outstanding attraction consists of 16 crystal-clear lakes, charmingly interconnected – a network of waterfalls, overflows, and cave systems.

As you stroll along wooden boardwalks, you immerse yourself in a fairytale environment where lush green and vibrant turquoise compete for brilliance.

The lakes are a timeless treasure trove where submerged trees and plants are preserved underwater. Thanks to the crystal-clear water, you can admire and marvel at this fascinating underwater landscape from above.

If you're exploring Croatia by campervan, it's definitely worth making a stop here.

Zadar

The "Greeting to the Sun" in Croatia isn't a yoga pose but a striking monument on Zadar's waterfront promenade.

An impressive circle of numerous glass plates, 22 meters in diameter, glows in vibrant colors in the dark.

These color changes occur in sync with the Sea Organ, another fascinating attraction along the promenade.

The Sea Organ acts as an experimental musical instrument whose sounds are generated by the crashing waves and take the form of a staircase. For lovers of urban art, Zadar thus offers an ideal backdrop.

Exploring Croatia by Campervan: Kornati National Park

Kornati National Park consists of 89 islands and reefs. During the summer months, numerous sailboats and yachts navigate the waters between these islands to explore the fascinating beauty of this island world.

Here, you have the option to either charter your own boat or join a guided tour to the islands.

Brač – Golden Horn

Croatia's most famous sandy beach stretches along the coast of Brač, near the charming town of Bol. Its distinctive shape, extending several hundred meters into the sea and tapering to a point, gave this beach the name "Golden Horn."

For convenient travel from Split to Brač island, you can take the ferry, which will bring you to this magical place.

If you fancy not just relaxing on the beach but also exploring the surroundings, a hike up Vidova Gora mountain, at 778 meters, might be interesting.

This ascent is relatively easy to manage in about 1.5 hours. The reward at the summit is a breathtaking view.

If you're already in the mountain regions, you should definitely take a look at the Blaca Hermitage Monastery. The monastery's clever camouflage, with facades color-matched to the rocks, once served as protection against Ottoman attacks.

This camouflage prevented the monastery from being discovered from the sea. Today, the former monastery houses an observatory, transforming the site into a unique combination of history and astronomy.

Hvar – Plaža Dubovica

Are you traveling to Croatia by campervan? Then you should visit the enchanting Dubovica Bay.

Dubovica Bay, in the southern part of the island, about 8 kilometers from Hvar town, attracts attention. Here, a pebble beach spreads out, offering ample space for picnic blankets and sun umbrellas.

Families with children, in particular, appreciate the gentle transition of the water and the sheltered location of the beach.

The bay provides an ideal environment for extensive swimming on hot days, with the crystal-clear, turquoise water forming the perfect backdrop.

If you put on a snorkel mask, you'll not only have the chance to observe the colorful underwater world but also to search for a hidden grotto. Dubovica Bay holds some secrets for explorers.

On land, a visit to the historic 18th-century house complex, once owned by the Kasandrić family, is worthwhile.

These buildings not only offer insights into the architecture of past times but also tell stories about the region's history.

Dubovica Bay combines scenic beauty, crystal-clear water, and cultural elements into an unforgettable experience.

It invites you to spend relaxing hours on the beach, explore the underwater world, and simultaneously delve into the historical past of the area.

Wild Camping in Croatia: What You Need to Know

In Croatia, as in most other European countries, wild camping is prohibited. Especially in tourist regions, along the coast, and in national parks, regular checks are carried out, and violations can result in fines of up to 400 Euros.

Unlike in Germany, it is also not permitted to spend the night in a motorhome in parking lots or rest areas. Even bivouacking, meaning sleeping outdoors without a tent, is prohibited.

In the interior of the country, however, it is occasionally possible to park your camper for a night on private land after a polite request.

Nevertheless, caution is advised when it comes to remote areas, as there is still a danger of landmines or unexploded ordnance underground in former war zones in Croatia.

The safest option is to settle down at one of the many campsites along the Croatian coast. These offer a wealth of amenities and have been designed with great attention to detail to meet every wish.

Conclusion: Exploring Croatia by Campervan

Exploring Croatia by campervan is undoubtedly a fascinating and adventurous way to discover this beautiful country.

From the picturesque coastal landscape to the enchanting national parks inland, Croatia offers a diverse backdrop for campervan enthusiasts.

However, you should be aware that wild camping is not allowed in Croatia and can be punished with high fines. It is advisable to use the numerous campsites along the coast, which offer not only comfort but also safety.