visit croatia from italy

The Best Italy and Croatia Itinerary Ideas for 7-14 Days Trips You’ll Love

• December 12, 2021

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Italy and Croatia are two of the best destinations in Europe and if you can’t decide which one to visit, there’s good news: you can easily visit both during the same trip! These three itineraries cover a similar route that are adapted and added on to for itineraries of different lengths so you’ll be able to find one that fits your travel plans.

Related Posts :

• 10 Days in Italy | 5 of The Best Itinerary Ideas for an Amazing 10 Days in Italy
• 10 of the Best Hidden Gems in Italy to Visit
• 10 of the Best Places to Visit in Croatia

7-Day or One-Week Italy and Croatia Itinerary

If you only have one week to explore Italy and Croatia, you’ll still be able to take a highlights tour of these incredible countries. Start your trip by flying into Rome . Italy’s capital city is rich with history and culture and you can spend at least two or three days here exploring some of the most famous ancient monuments in the world. Toss a coin over your left shoulder with your right hand into the waters of the Trevi Fountain – according to legend, doing this means you will soon make another trip to Italy.

From Rome, you’ll continue on to Venice where you’ll be able to see the famous canal city in person over the course of two days. Make sure you spend an afternoon taking one of the famous gondola rides through the city. Although this can be relatively expensive, it’s definitely worth it to participate in this iconic activity.

You’ll end your trip by heading to the Croatian city of Dubrovnik . This charming city is an extremely popular destination with a rich history. The Dubrovnik Walls are one of the most famous attractions in the city and you can walk along them and admire the view of the Old Town area and climb Minceta Tower. They’re famous in pop culture for their appearance on HBO’s smash hit Game of Thrones and you may be able to find a guided tour that is based on the show when you are there. In addition to exploring these picturesque walls, you can eat local food and shop for Croatian goods to take home as a souvenir.

Travel Guide & Resources for This 7-day or One-Week Italy and Croatia Itinerary:

Enjoy this 7-day or one-week Italy and Croatia Itinerary itinerary? Here you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets , or  rent a car  for your trip to Italy and Croatia. Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in any destinations  mentioned in this Italy and Croatia itinerary to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your one-week or 7-day Italy and Croatia Itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in Italy and Croatia  in addition to what is already mentioned here.

10-Day Italy and Croatia Itinerary

If you have ten full days to explore Italy and Croatia, you have several more opportunities to see incredible sights and experience vibrant culture. As with the previous itinerary, you will start this ten day vacation by flying into Rome and spending three days exploring the sights. If you love museums you can head to the Vatican Museums which are widely considered to be some of the best museums in Europe, if not the entire world. The museum has nearly 70,000 remarkable historic and artistic items in it’s total collection, 20,000 of which are on display. One of the most famous is Michelangelo’s The Creation of Adam , the famous painted ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. While near the Vatican, spend some time exploring St Peter’s Basilica, another structure that Michaelangelo helped create.

From Rome, head north to Venice . In addition to a gondola ride, you can spend your time in the famous canal city walking across the nearly 400 bridges that cross the waterways. If you happen to be visiting during late February or early March, you might have a chance to experience the vibrant Venice Carnival which is famous for its elaborate masks. Pick one up from one of the local artisans when you visit.

After exploring Venice you’ll head into Croatia and towards the capital city of Zagreb . You can fly there or you can opt to drive although that trip can take around five hours. This fantastic destination blends the historic with the modern and the result is a charming city where you can learn about Croatia’s history and culture. Gradec is a quaint neighborhood where you can shop and grab a bite to eat. Dolac Market is a daily farmer’s market where you can also pick up some fresh food that makes for a quick and healthy breakfast.

During your stay in Zagreb, you can book an excursion to the incredible Plitvices Lake National Park . This UNESCO World Heritage Site is Croatia’s largest and oldest national park and is a stunning natural landmark that is just under two hours away from Zagreb. There are several different companies that offer day trips that provide transportation and in some cases, meals are provided as well. These tours are a great way to explore the natural beauty of Croatia without having to rent a car.

After three days exploring Zagreb and taking a day trip to Plitvices Lake National Park, you’ll continue on to your final stop on this itinerary: Dubrovnik . In addition to the Dubrovnik Walls, you can explore the Stradun which is a pedestrian area lined with stores and cafes. After your time in Dubrovnik, you can easily continue on to other destinations or head home by flying out of the Dubrovnik Airport.

Travel Guide & Resources for This 10-Day Italy and Croatia Itinerary Itinerary:

Enjoy this 10-day or one-week Italy and Croatia Itinerary itinerary? Here you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets , or  rent a car  for your trip to Italy and Croatia. Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in any destinations  mentioned in this Italy and Croatia itinerary to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your one-week or 10-day Italy and Croatia Itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in Italy and Croatia  in addition to what is already mentioned here.

14-Day or 2-Week Italy and Croatia Itinerary

If you have a full two weeks to explore Italy and Croatia, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore some of the best sights in the country. As with the other itineraries, you’ll start by flying into Rome . In addition to being home to a major airport and being easy to get to, Rome is a great place to start your Italian adventure as there are several iconic monuments within city limits and plenty of opportunities that are designed for tourists such as guided experiences in languages other than Italian.

Following your time in Rome, head north to Florence . The city has long had a reputation for encouraging art and many famous creators were either born in Florence or established a residence there in later years. For example, if you head to Piazza della Signoria, you can see the iconic Statue of David. This marble sculpture was created between 1501 and 1504 by the famous artist Michalangelo. Visit the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore to see one of the most famous cathedrals in the world.

After exploring Florence, you can continue up north to Venice before heading into Croatia. You can spend just a day and a half exploring the city by land and by gondola before continuing on. Make sure you stop by the famous St. Marks Square where you can explore cafes and shops while enjoying stunning views of the blue waters framed by the terracotta colors of the structures.

After your time in Venice, you’ll fly into Zagreb , Croatia’s capital city. In addition to fresh food and charming medieval alleyways and neighborhoods, you’ll be able to spend your time here visiting historic sites such as Karlovac – a 16th century town that was built as an outpost to defend against the Ottoman army. It is a fascinating example of military planning and is also a beautiful spot. For a more unconventional route, head to the Museum of Broken Relationships. This museum contains items from heartbroken people around the world along with a brief explanation as to what these seemingly random items are. It might not sound like a good time but the galleries are poignant and remarkably human.

Next, you’ll start heading south – specifically towards Plitvice Lakes National Park . You’ll rent a car for this part of your trip and you’ll be able to experience some stunning scenery and unique aspects of Croatian culture you’d miss if you were flying over it. If you’re heading to the park without a tour guide you’ll have the complete freedom to hike and explore the area at your own pace. You can even opt to stay overnight at a nearby hotel like the beautiful Plitvice Hotel. You can rest and explore the park for a few hours the next morning before continuing on.

After exploring Plitvices Lake National Park , you’ll continue on to Split , Croatia’s second-largest city. Split is a cultural hub in the region and is also home to several historic landmarks such as the Diocletian’s Palace, which was erected for the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century AD. Today you can tour the palace and even see it from Split’s Old Town neighborhood.

Finally, continue on to Dubrovnik . You can spend your days here exploring the remnants of imposing historic sites and immersing yourself in Croatian culture before heading home.

Travel Guide & Resources for This 14-day or Two-Week Italy and Croatia Itinerary:

Enjoy this 14-day or two-week Italy and Croatia Itinerary itinerary? Here you can find the  best flights ,  train tickets , or  rent a car  for your trip to Italy and Croatia. Also, here you can browse our list of the  best hotels in any destinations  mentioned in this Italy and Croatia itinerary to stay in.

Need more ideas to add to your 14-day or two-week Italy and Croatia Itinerary? Find  top attractions & things to do in Italy and Croatia  in addition to what is already mentioned here.

Video Guide: Italy & Croatia Itinerary Ideas for 7, 10, & 14 Days

Related Posts

Travel resources for planning a multi-city trip to Italy and Croatia

To make planning a trip to Italy and Croatia easier, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in each destination during your trip to Italy and Croatia.

Agoda : Search thousands of destinations around the world & quickly compare prices to find amazing deals on the best flights.

CheapOAir : You can find airline tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, and vacation packages all on one site!

Kiwi.com : What we like about Kiwi is the fact that they are able to create combinations of flight, train, and bus tickets and offer them in a single itinerary. Also, Kiwi has what they called “ Nomad ” which helps you find the best way of visiting multiple destinations, saving you time and money.

JetRadar : You can search and compare airfares from 726 airlines and dozens of travel agencies and systems.

Agoda : Agoda is one of the world’s largest online travel accommodation platforms with a network of over 2,000,000 vacation rentals and hotels worldwide.

Hotellook : They have more than 250,000 hotels in 205 countries, working with data from more than 10 online booking systems, such as Booking.com, Agoda.com, Hotels.com, Expedia, and others.

Transportations:  

Airport Transfers :  KiwiTaxi ,  Viator

Train :  EuRail ,  Trainline  or  RailEurope  

Bus :  Flixbus : Very affordable (as low as $6) and convenient way to transfer between cities in Europe.

Car Rentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking  (Bikes & scooter rentals) 

Transportation Comparison :  Omio  (search, compare, and book tickets for buses, trains, and flights all in one site)

Tours & Activities :

TakeWalks  (WalkofItaly): This is our favorite site for walking tours & day trips.

Tiqets : Great site for entrance tickets. It offers directly bookable, instantly available, and completely mobile tickets for museums, shows, and attractions all over the world.

Musement : They have good activities and tours in Italy and Spain, also many great day trips you can choose from.

GetYourGuide : A large number of tours, excursions, and other travel activities

Viator : The largest one. It has everything from tours, attractions, shore excursions, and private guides in over 2,700 destinations worldwide. It also has many transportations and transfers options and some unique experiences we didn’t find anywhere else.

Need help planning a trip to Italy and Croatia ?

Want to plan a trip to Italy and Croatia but don’t know where to begin? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-destination travel and complicated itineraries such as a multi-city trip to Italy and Croatia are our specialties.  Contact us  today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can  personalize your multi-city vacations   at the best price.

Don’t want to start from scratch and need some trip inspiration? Check out our  marketplace  for customizable pre-designed packages available right now for many amazing destinations.

To learn more about how our process of trip planning works in detail, please see our “ How It Works ” page or check out our video on  “How to Plan a Multi-City Trip to Europe in  5 Easy Steps”   here.

Have questions for us?  Schedule a FREE Call  with us here or contact one of the travel experts/destination specialists at  [email protected] , call/text us at  (888)223-2316  today.

Private Travel Coaching & Consulting Call

Want to plan and book your upcoming trip yourself? If this is your first time traveling to any of the European destinations or you are new to multi-city, multi-country travel but prefer to manage every part of your trip on your own, this option is for you! 

For just  $150 per hour , our destination expert can answer any questions you might have as you plan and book your dream trip. From assisting with route planning, and destination selection, recommending the best areas or places to stay, the best transportation options, things to do and see, saving tips and so much more! 

Ready to plan your trip with our help? Book your private coaching session with our destination expert now and we’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours!

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2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary & The Best Way to Explore The City You Love

9 Incredible Hidden Gems in Iceland You’ll Love

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7 of the Best Day Trips from Milan by Train You’ll Love

Travel resources for planning your own trip.

To make planning your European trip on your own easier, in addition to what already mentioned in our travel guide, we included some of our recommended travel resources below. You can search and find the best flights, transportation options, hotels to stay in, tours/activities, and things you can do in any destination using these travel resources:

European River Cruises:

Uniworld River Cruises : The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. The company’s European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, enticing shore excursions, world-class gourmet cuisine, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

Pre- and Post-cruise/Tour Extensions:  Uniworld curated pre-and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your trip while leaving the planning to them

The packages include a variety of hotel options, transfers, and a dedicated destination expert to escort you along the way.

Airport Transfers & Transportations:  

Airport Transfers: GetTransfer offers both airport transfers & car rentals with a personal driver. Other airport transfer options are KiwiTaxi and Viator.

Train :  EuroRail ,  Trainline ,  or  RailEurope are all great sites for train tickets as well as Rail Passes if you would like to add more flexibility to your trip. They are good for most trains throughout Europe. For trains in Italy, we like and recommend ItaliaRail . As for Portugal, you will need to go to the official website for Comboios de Portugal (the Portuguese train company) to book your train tickets when traveling in Portugal.

CarRentals :  AutoEurope ,  EconomyBookings ,  or   GetTransfer  (transfers & car rentals with a personal driver)

Bike Rental :  BikesBooking is a great site for bikes & scooter rentals

Travel Insurance:

Travel Guard :  Their comprehensive travel insurance programs, starting at $30, include per-trip & annual plans, coverage for trip cancellation , trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, baggage loss & more! Travel Guard provides 24/7-customer service with a personal touch through its World Service Center.

DISCLAIMER : Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links, MultiCityTrips may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Trip by Travel Experts

Need help planning a trip and find the best vacation package for your multi-city trip to Europe? If you find this type of trip planning to be too complicated to plan on your own, we’re here to help!

At  MultiCityTrips , multi-city, multi-country European vacations, and complicated itineraries are our specialties. Contact us today to learn more about how one of our experienced travel experts/destination specialists can personalize an amazing multi-city trip to your dream destinations in Europe.

Ready for a trip? Check out our planning options and get in touch with us today!

Featured Pre-Designed Packages

These air-inclusive, pre-designed multi-city European vacation packages can be personalized to suit your needs!

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to Amsterdam and Copenhagen

6 Nights/7 Days Signature Escape to London and Paris

9 Nights/ 10 Days Signature Escape to Milan, Lake Como and Venice

6 Nights/ 7 Days Signature Escape to Amsterdam and Brussels

Schedule a FREE Consultation

Not sure or can’t decide which planning option is right for you? Schedule a free 30-minute call with one of our travel experts to discuss your travel needs today!

How to Get from Italy to Croatia (and Vice Versa)

Getting from Italy to Croatia by Ferry

• Ferries from Venice to Croatia: >> to Mali Losinj, Piran, Pula, Rovinj, Porec, Rabac (Venezia Lines – these are passenger ferries only, no cars)
• Ferries from Ancona to Croatia: >> to Zadar, Split (Jadrolinija Ferries) >> to Split, Vis, Stari Grad/Hvar Island (Blue Line Ferries) >> to Split (SNAV Ferries)
• Ferries from Pescara to Croatia: >> to Split, Stari Grad/Hvar Island (SNAV Ferries or Jadrolinija Ferries)
• Ferries from Bari to Croatia: >> to Dubrovnik (Jadrolinija Ferries)

Look at a map of the departure and arrival ports listed above and you’ll understand why things like travel time and ticket prices will vary depending on where you’re leaving Italy, where you’re going in Croatia, and also when you’re making the trip. So you’ll need to look up all your options before deciding which one suits your travel budget and style best – but here are some reference points to get you started.

• A one-way ticket from Venice to Rovinj on Venezia Lines ranges from €48 in the low season to €53 in the high season (and that’s not including taxes, fees & surcharges).
• A deck-only one-way ticket from Ancona to Split or Bari to Dubrovnik on Jadrolinija Ferries ranges from €40 in the low season to €48 in the high season and €55 on a summer weekend. You can pay as much as €173 for a deluxe 2-berth cabin on that same trip on a summer weekend, and there are lots of options between those two extremes.
• A one-way ticket from Pescara to Hvar Island or Split on SNAV Ferries runs from €50-95 depending on the season and what promotions are going on.
• A one-way ticket from Ancona to Split or Hvar Island on Blue Line Ferries can be €40-48 for a deck ticket, all the way up to €116-136 for a “VIP Cabin” (with lots of options in between), and this doesn’t include any charge for a vehicle or the summer weekend rate increase.
• The trip from Venice-Rovinj takes about 2.5 hours if you get a direct boat.
• The trip from Ancona-Split takes about 9 hours.
• The trip from Bari-Dubrovnik takes about 8-9 hours.
• The trip from Pescara-Hvar Island takes about 4.25 hours.

For more information about all your options, your best bet is to check with the individual ferry companies. There are sites which claim to have the information for all the different companies, but in my searches I found some were outdated and others incomplete. If there’s one that’s always up-to-date and thorough, please let me know – but in the meantime (and even if there is) it’s probably best to check each ferry company’s website. Here are the sites for Jadrolinija Ferries , Blue Line Ferries , Venezia Lines , and SNAV Ferries . Be warned, not all of those sites are created equally when it comes to ease of use. Be patient… (Note that with the exception of the catamaran service from Venice to Croatia, the rest of the ferries you can take from Italy to Croatia are car ferries that also have passenger service. If you’re leaving from Venice, there’s no car ferry to Croatia.)

Flying from Italy to Croatia

• easyJet – Milan to Dubrovnik, Milan to Split
• Germanwings – Milan to Zagreb, Bologna to Zagreb
• Ryanair – Pisa to Zadar

With a budget airline you can sometimes find one-way promotional fares for ridiculously low prices, even under €10. These fares are rarely as cheap as advertised, since the airlines then end up charging you for every little thing you thought was “free” on airlines, but it’s always worth looking – as long as you read the fine print. A quick scan of some of the round-trip tickets from Italy to Croatia at the time of this writing revealed a €11 fare to Zadar on Ryanair, a couple of €41 fares to Split and Dubrovnik on easyJet, and one that came in over €170 into Zagreb on Croatia Airlines. All of those options should be considered in the “extremely cheap” range, because you’ll also find fares in the €300-400 range as well for a flight from Milan to Dubrovnik or Rome to Split. As far as schedules go, remember that even though you’ll be seeing a flight that lasts less than two hours between Italy and Croatia, because it’s international travel (Croatia’s not yet part of the EU) you’ll need to factor in extra time spent at the airport and getting to and from the airport, as well. Be sure to weigh all that when you’re thinking about how much time a flight could potentially save over a ferry. Flights to Zagreb: Flights to Split: Flights to Dubrovnik: Flights to Zadar:

Getting from Italy to Croatia by Train

• Venice to Zagreb can take from 7.5-10 hours and can require 1-2 train changes along the way.
• Venice to Split can take from 15-20 hours and require as many as 3 train changes.
• Rome to Zagreb can take from 11.5-15.5 hours and require 1-2 train changes.
• Milan to Zagreb can take from 10-12 hours and require 1-2 train changes.
• A one-way ticket from Venice to Zagreb on the train can cost roughly $40-110 for a 2nd class ticket or $120-195 for a 1st class ticket (for direct trains that’s for either a couchette or a sleeper cabin, and including reservations where required).

Getting from Italy to Croatia by Bus

Driving from Italy to Croatia

And now that you’re in Croatia…

• BootsnAll has a Croatia travel guide you might find useful, called WhyGo Croatia.
• You’ll find all kinds of accommodation options in Croatia , including hotels in Croatia , hostels in Croatia , and resorts in Croatia (if you’ve got the budget for them!).
• There are plenty of things to do in Croatia , from sailing and diving to checking out the beautiful national parks .

photos, top to bottom, by: jimmyharris , lostajy , bortescristian , Goran Zec , kawanet , vacation2 , jonsson

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6 Fabulous Reasons To Take A Side Trip To Croatia When You’re Visiting Italy

• Destinations

Croatians joke that Americans always say they want to visit Croatia — but then confess they don’t know where it is. Formerly a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and later Yugoslavia, Croatia emerged as a modern, independent nation in 1991, enduring a bitter civil war between the Croats and Serbs that lasted until 1995. While many Americans didn’t consider vacationing in Yugoslavia or in the war-torn country that first emerged from it, modern Croatia soon became a cheap alternative to nearby Italy. Now, three decades into its independence, Croatia is a destination all its own with many reasons for you to visit while in Europe.

Since it’s nestled along the Adriatic Coast across from Italy , a side trip to Croatia while on an Italian holiday is pretty easy. If traveling by car, it’s just 3 hours from Venice to Rijeka in northwest Croatia. From there, a trip along the Adriatic to the walled city of Dubrovnik in southernmost Croatia is another 6 hours or so. 

The popular Flixbus runs service from all parts of Italy to many regions in Croatia. The trips can run on the long side, but they’re cheap and comfortable. Ferries are another option, with one line running from Venice to Istria — an Italian-influenced county in northwest Croatia — taking about 3 and a half hours. If you’re a more dedicated sailor, a route from Ancona, east of Florence, to Split in southern Croatia takes a little less than 12 hours.

For those who prefer the speed of flying, it’s just 90 minutes from Rome to the Croatian capital Zagreb, with flights often under $100 round-trip. Similar, short, and cheap flights run from Rome to coastal destinations like Split.

Knowing how easy it is to get to Croatia, the next step is figuring out what to do there. The coast is the main attraction for most visitors, but there is a lot more to see and do away from Croatia’s famous beaches. Visitors have no problem finding sights and experiences to make a short (or long) side trip worth the effort. 

1. Plan A Trip To The Islands

While Italy has its own collection of must-visit islands like Capri and Ponza, Croatia boasts a line of islands down its entire Adriatic Coast. Hvar is probably the best known to international travelers. Summertime visitors flock there for its hot, sunny beaches and bright, turquoise water. But the island offers plenty to see on dry land, including historic settlements and scenic paths for biking and hiking.

Less well known is wooded Korčula , south of Split and north of Dubrovnik. Throughout history, the island changed hands from various empires, each leaving its mark on the villages and culture of the island. Korčula Old Town, on the eastern end of the island, is a walled city in the style of Dubrovnik — but without the pressing crowds. The town is quite small, which makes it possible to take in all of its history, food, and shopping in just a day. With all the battles over this territory, there’s a decidedly martial feeling to the place, including an annual sword dance festival in June. Like most Croatian islands, the hiking and biking are superb, with the island’s forests adding to the beauty here.

Another island gem is Lošinj in the northern Adriatic off the coast of Rijeka. Locals call it “the island of vitality” and have doubled down on promoting the many health spas and local wellness centers there. Most hotels and resorts here offer spa and other wellness services. Those who want to experience the island vitality on their own can put together a list of activities to take advantage of the island’s clean air and water, using a comprehensive scientific guide to the natural remedies found there. When you’re done healing and want some more typical tourist activities, the island boasts some of the best dolphin watching in the region, with numerous boat tours to view the sea mammals.

Pro Tip: One of the biggest challenges for island travel in Croatia is getting there. Most use ferry service from the main coastal cities. Be sure to check on ferry schedules for the time of year you plan to visit and factor the ferry costs into your travel budget. 

2. Visit The Best Roman Ruins Outside Italy

If history is your thing, Croatia offers a lot of options. Its location in one of the heavily-traveled crossroads in the Mediterranean leaves it with many relics of the past. 

Among the best attractions are the Roman ruins in Istria, the part of the country nearest to Italy. Top of the list to see here is the ancient Roman colosseum in Pula, near the tip of the Istrian Peninsula. Known as Pula Arena , it is the only remaining such structure in the world with all the outside tower walls intact, meaning it’s in better condition than the famous colosseum in Rome . Not only can you visit the site and tour the grounds, but it’s still in use as a concert and theater venue. You could see your favorite band play this 2,000-year-old stage. 

Up the coast a bit in Poreč, you can find the remains of two Roman temples , while east of Pula, near Valtura, the remains of Nesactium date back to before the Romans, who later took the city as their own. Hop over to the Brijuni Islands to experience the Roman ruins that litter this national park, covering 14 islands in all. The park has two Roman villas , the Byzantine castrum, and the Roman villa in Verige Bay. And if that’s not old enough for you, you can check out the Bronze Age fort and even some dinosaur footprints . 

Pro Tip: While everyone should see the Roman forum and colosseum at some point in life, the crowds at these famous sites can become overwhelming. Croatia’s Roman heritage offers a much less-crowded way to see these antiquities.

3. Tour A Castle — Or Spend The Night There

We tend to think of northern Europe when we think of castles, but Croatia has dozens of them spread across its regions — including some where you can rent a room to spend the night. Known as a dvorac in Croatian, these structures often contain excellent museums and are easy to reach by car. 

One castle many find to be the most beautiful in Croatia is Dvor Trakošćan , just an hour’s drive north of Zagreb along the Slovenian border. The castle is furnished in the style of a Croatian aristocrat from the 15th century, with side exhibits of hunting gear, tableware, and more from that period to the present. 

Also in the north is nearby Veliki Tabor Castle , whose name means “grand camp” in Croatian, thanks to its history as a military fort. Its museum focuses on that military heritage. Be advised that the castle is undergoing serious restoration and some areas may be covered or closed during your visit. 

Spending the night in a castle can run from modern luxury to something just south of rustic. If you prefer your castle stay to come with all the amenities, consider Valamar Isabella Castle in Poreč. This 19-century home of the Marquis Polesini has all the comforts of a modern hotel housed in a historic shell. But if you want something a little more authentic, turn to Airbnb to rent someplace like the Ruina di Molino a Vento

in the center of Hvar city on the island of the same name. This standalone turret dates to the 18th century when it was originally built as a windmill. The stone walls still give you the feeling of staying in a castle, but the modern conveniences are there to make your stay comfortable.

Pro Tip: Many castles here list themselves as “the most beautiful castle in Croatia.” Some live up to that label, but others can be a disappointment. As they often are miles from other tourist cities, research them thoroughly before making a long drive to see a place that might not live up to expectations.

4. See The Birthplace Of The Father Of Modern Electricity

When we hear the name “Tesla,” most of us think of the electric car company. The man whose name is on all of those electric cars is Nikola Tesla, inventor of alternating current power and winner of the current wars with Thomas Edison to electrify America and the world. 

Tesla was born in what is present-day Croatia (though he is of Serb descent) and the town of his birth has a museum and memorial center . The center is divided into two parts — one highlights Tesla’s country upbringing as the son of an Eastern Orthodox priest and the other features his professional accomplishments. 

Visitors can tour the house in which Tesla was born, participate in hands-on experiments, and watch a documentary about Tesla. The center is in Smiljan, which lies just off the main Zagreb to Split highway, about 2 hours from the capital. Admission prices run less than $10 to see all the exhibits.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have time to make the trip to Smiljan and sill want to see a little bit of Croatia’s love for Tesla, an impressive statue just off the main square in Zagreb pays tribute to the country’s favorite son. Located at the end of the street that bears his name — ulica Nikole Telse — the statue shows a seated Tesla with his chin resting on his fist in a thoughtful pose.

5. Relive Croatia’s Recent War History

Strolling the streets of the capital or dipping your toes in the Adriatic, it’s easy to forget Croatia was the site of a bloody civil war just a generation ago. While scars of war-like bullet holes and shrapnel are visible in many parts of Zagreb and points east, you can also choose from a number of formal war tours that put the conflict into perspective. 

In Zagreb, a 2-hour tour in English takes visitors back to World War II and then moves forward through the Yugoslavia years and the fight for independence in the ‘90s. The tour includes the underground tunnels and air-raid shelters used in the conflict. Tickets run around $30. 

In Karlovac, about 45 minutes southwest of Zagreb, a whole museum dedicated to the war welcomes visitors year-round. Located on the site of an old barracks and fort, the museum’s main feature is a detailed telling of the key role the city of Karlovac played in the war, told through the artifacts left behind, multimedia exhibits, and hands-on displays. For those traveling the coast, a similar museum in Dubrovnik highlights the war in the south.

Pro Tip: For another tragic piece of recent history, look around Zagreb for damage left behind by the major earthquake that shook the city in March 2020. Repairs are still underway to major structures like the city’s Roman Catholic cathedral, and cracks and other damage are visible in most of the city center’s older buildings. 

6. Pour A Glass Of Croatian Wine

A side trip from Italy and all its fantastic wine wouldn’t be complete without sampling the diverse and tasty offerings from Croatian winemakers. The country has four major wine regions: from Istria in the northwest, with its rich reds; Slavonia in the east, with its wide array of whites; Zagorje in the north, with its Germanic tastes; and Dalmatia in the southwest, with its heavy use of native grapes. 

Wineries across the regions have grown popular for wine tourists and come prepared to deliver a tasting experience that rivals what you would find in any busy wine country. Among the most popular wineries is Skaramuča Family Vineyard , located on the Pelješac Peninsula in Dalmatia. The winery boasts spectacular views of the Adriatic and the grape-laden slopes around the vineyard. It specializes in wines produced from local grapes grown only in that region. 

For a taste of several vineyards, travel the Štrigova Wine Road in the far north. Families here tend the grapes first planted by the Romans. Here, you’ll find nearly two dozen wineries and tasting houses, all featuring the region’s best wines.

Even if you can’t make it to a winery, Croatian wine will be on any menu when dining out. A few suggestions to sample are Plavac mali , a Dalmatian red with a strong, slightly bitter flavor; or Traminer wine, an Alpine white grown in Zagorje with its light, fruity flavors. Try Istrian Malvasia , a white with strong acid and fruity flavor; or Žlahtina , an island-grown white that carries the minerality of its origin.

Pro Tip: To go with your wine, Croatian food represents a delicious mix of Mediterranean, Turkish, Italian, and local flavors. Don’t miss the excellent street food found in Zagreb where meat is king, or the coastal offerings with its wide variety of seafood.

If Italy is your main destination and Croatia is your side trip, your Italian itinerary may set the schedule for your visit. Still, keep in mind that coastal Croatia is best visited in the warmer months to take advantage of beach time and other outdoor activities. Zagreb and central Croatia can be a destination any time of year, keeping in mind summer temperatures often reach the 90s there, while winter temperatures can drop below freezing and bring snow or ice.

For more bucket-list Croatian experiences , check out these articles:

• ​​ 6 Incredible Balkan Dishes To Try When Visiting Croatia
• I Chartered A Sailboat In Croatia For 2 Weeks — Here’s What I Learned
• 8 Can’t-Miss Ways To Experience Croatia On The Water

He has done just that over his more than 40 years as a journalist, visiting popular places such as Italy and the United Kingdom, as well as some lesser-visited locales such as Moldova and Niger. His favorite thing to do as a traveler is to try local food he’s never eaten before. Stacey also enjoys exploring a new city on foot, ducking down shaded streets and unassuming alleys to find something unexpected. While airplanes make it much quicker to get there, once in a new spot, Stacey wants to explore by bike, car, or train to see it all up close and from ground level.

Croatia Or Italy: The Honest Comparison [2023] You Need!

T he question for many when trying to decide between Italy or Croatia, is what separates these European holiday destinations from each other?

Yet while both of these countries have similar climates and are great coastal destinations, each has its own distinct histories, cultures, sights to visit, and cuisines that set them apart. All of which makes them quite different destinations.

For example, if beaches are your priority then Croatia will be a better holiday choice than Italy as it has over 700 islands and an arguably nicer coastline.

On the other hand, Italy is perfect for tourists who want a mix of beach and city life as Italy’s cities are world-renowned for their art, culture, and exquisite buildings

However that’s just the beginning when it comes to how different these two countries can be when it comes to a dream holiday.

Luckily we know both Italy and Croatia well, so compare both below by looking at which has the better beaches, the vibe in each, which is cheaper, and more. We also look at the sights to explore, the food you can try, what natural attractions you can see in each, as well as some amazing towns and cities you should visit.

That’s all so you can see what’s offer in both Croatia and Italy, in order to make the right decision for your holiday.

Let’s dive in!

• A Quick Overview & Comparison

How Do The Beaches & Landscape Compare?

How does the culture, cities & vibe compare, how does the cuisine compare.

• Which Is The Better Choice?

A Quick Overview & Comparison Of Croatia vs Italy

Both nations have fantastic sun-soaked beaches, and countless ancient towns and cities that are packed with history.

However with it’s world famous coastline and over 700 islands, we think Croatia tends to have better beaches than Italy. The water in Croatia is perfect for swimming too as it’s warm, calm, and really unrivalled across Europe. Which makes it a great sun, sea, and sand vacation.

Island-studded Croatia also has a rich history and was formally part of the Roman and Byzantine empires.

Spectacular medieval towns in the country like Dubrovnik really need to be seen to be believed, whilst the gorgeous islands that dot Croatia’s coastline are some of Europe’s best. We’ve written about the six most beautiful Croatian islands previously.

In short, Croatia is a wonderful place to charter a boat and explore the coastline and islands. So if you’re looking to spend time on beaches and island hopping then Croatia will likely be the better choice than Italy.

However Italy is one of those countries that gives Croatia a run for its money when it comes to great vacation destinations.

Italy also has a rich history and architectural gems from the Roman Empire are everywhere. Furthermore, cosmopolitan cities like Milan, Rome, Florence, and Venice are famous for their galleries, museums, and beauty.

In fact, when it comes to sightseeing Italy has it all. Every city and region of the country is packed with things to do and see. A trip to Rome, for example, can easily last a week and you still wouldn’t be bored!

This is where Italy really excels over Croatia. It has culture-packed cities that have spectacular sights, museums, galleries and shopping. So if you’re looking for more of a city break than a beach break, then Italy is probably the better choice.

The food scene is also phenomenal in Italy (as we’ll explain more on below), so if cuisine is top of your holiday list then Italy should probably be your choice. The transport system is also very good, so traveling around the country is relatively easy.

However Croatia wins when it comes to cost – we’ve found that Croatia tends to be cheaper than Italy for a vacation. Although the difference isn’t huge, and it does depend on what region you’re in.

To quickly sum up before comparing the sights in each country: Croatia is the better holiday destination if you’re looking for relaxation, time spent outdoors, and an island hopping adventure.

But Italy is perfect for urban tourism, art and food lovers. It also has some stunning scenery – such as the Dolomites mountain range, and the island of Sardinia, so is a good choice if you’re looking for a mix of beach and city vibes on vacation.

Below we look at some of the natural sights you will come across in Croatia and Italy, as well as comparing their cuisines and cities!

Croatia: The Beaches & Landscape

In our opinion Croatia has better beaches and warmer water than Italy. And if you want to visit some of the best beaches in Croatia, head to the island of Susak .

This gorgeous small island is ringed by golden beaches and fantastic warm swimming water. Our favourite beach there is Spiaza .

If you’re dreaming of stunning turquoise water that’s perfect for swimming and snorkelling, and a place where you can take pictures to make your friends back home envious, then head to Brač Island.

The hues of blue that are layered across the sea in places such as Lovrečina Bay in Brac are breathtakingly beautiful. Whilst the backdrop of olive groves among ancient buildings makes this island a real gem in Croatia’s crown.

However Croatia doesn’t just have beaches to boast about, and inland there’s some of the best scenery in Europe too.

On the mainland, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must visit for any tourist to Croatia. This mountainous region is famous for its chain of 16 terraced lakes which are joined together by gushing waterfalls.

It’s one of the most beautiful national parks in Europe, and is an area is full of hiking trails of varying difficulties.

Staying on the mainland, head south towards Klis , near the seaside city of Split. The landscape there – rocky and mountainous – was fought over for centuries, with many fortresses built to help defend the region from marauding armies.

Klis Fortress there is well worth visiting and is one of the most impressive ancient structures throughout Croatia. Despite being over 2000 years old it has become increasingly popular in recent years after featuring in Game of Thrones!

Back out to sea, take a visit to the pristine  Elaphiti Islands . The lush vegetation in this small archipelago and its unspoiled beaches and water make it a perfect place for a romantic walk or picnic.

With the islands being small and easy to navigate, it’s a great place to hire a kayak and enjoy the calm water.

It’s the ability to kayak, swim in waterfalls, sunbathe on beaches, climb mountains, explore forts and snorkel in the warm sea that sets Croatia apart from other European nations including Italy.

This country has so much going on in regards to outdoor activities, more than Italy in our opinion, and it has favourable weather for doing so too. So if you’re looking for a holiday focused on exploring nature, then Croatia will be a great choice.

Northern Italy has some fantastic beaches too, and the capital of seaside tourism in north Italy is Rimini on the Adriatic coast – famous for its fine sandy beaches and promenade of bars, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs.

Northern Italy also happens to have some of Europe’s most iconic and beautiful lakes. The stunning Como , Garda , Iseo and the highly underrated Orta lakes are all within easy traveling distance from Milan.

Further north are the hiking and winter sport paradises of the Italian Alps and the Dolomites – possibly Europe’s most easily recognisable mountain range.

The island of Sicily in the south has an attractive climate, historic cities such as Palermo and Catania, miles of fine sandy beaches, vineyards, Greek temples, Roman sites, and gorgeous baroque towns.

Back on the mainland of Southern Italy is Cinque Terre – the postcard-perfect collection of ancient villages on the Liguria coastline. In fact this gorgeous set of villages (see photo above) really competes with Croatia in the picturesque-stakes regarding which has the most beautiful coastline.

This National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site actually receives 2.4 million visitors a year! Why? It’s gorgeous!

From north to south the villages are Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, each with unique character and superb sea views. This is mostly a place for beaches, outdoor activities, and water sports.

The rocky mountainside of Aspromonte National Park in Calabria has the abandoned ghost town of Pentedattilo and a wild untouched landscape that is well worth visiting too.

As you may have guessed from the above, Italy has plenty to explore too, but it’s the scenic villages and historic towns that make it stand out. And as we’ll show you next, when it comes to towns and cities, that’s where Italy has the edge over Croatia.

Stepping away from package holiday resorts and into the cities and towns of Croatia and Italy will give you a richer, cultural experience.

Croatia: Culture, Cities & Vibe

Croatia oozes with ancient history, and with the cities and towns in this nation fought over for centuries by different civilizations, that tumultuous past has left its fascinating mark up and down the country.

The awe-inspiring city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its iconic Old City – which is ringed by huge stone walls that jut out into the ocean – make it one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

It’s no wonder then that the TV series Game of Thrones chose Dubrovnik to represent King’s Landing – the capital city in the series.

Pula is another city that deserves every tourist’s attention, mainly due to the incredible Roman ruins that are scattered throughout this coastal settlement.

Visit the huge Pula Arena – one of the world’s six largest remaining amphitheatres – which was built 2000 years ago. In our opinion it rivals the one in Rome, and is also far less busy – a big bonus!

Beautiful Šibenik is another of Croatia’s stunning coastal towns and is home to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the Cathedral of St James and the St. Nicholas Fortress . Steeped in history, take half a day to wander this pretty town and enjoy a coffee beside buildings that have stood for hundreds of years.

Italy: Culture, Cities & Vibe

City breaks to Italy are popular throughout Europe due to the cosmopolitan feel, and perfect mix between old and modern. Italian cities are some of the most famous and iconic in the world, and little wonder.

Bologna is a gorgeous medieval city in North Italy that has thrived with a steady flow of students that has kept this city a vibrant place to visit.

Food lovers can delight in Bologna’s food scene thanks to festivals like Eataly and a slew of food markets where you can learn more about its cuisine. This is also an excellent choice for art, music and Italian film enthusiasts who are all catered for inside Bologna’s galleries and museums.

Face the tourists and head to Venice , but take your time strolling its hidden side streets, canals, piazzas and local shops and cafes. This has to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Discover a treasure trove of history in Venice’s exceptional museums, visit St Mark’s Cathedral and Venice’s ornate churches. Then explore the exquisite old theatre Teatro La Fenice and the sprawling art museum Gallerie dell ’Accademia . Or take a boat to see the colourful island of Burano .

In the heel of Italy’s boot is the region of Puglia which is home to the charming city of Lecce .

The streets of Leece are perfect for wandering thanks to its hidden piazzas and oranate buildings and churches, including the beautiful baroque Santa Croce .

The city’s main square is Piazza Sant’Oronzo , the site of a Roman amphitheater, and in the evening join in with the local tradition of strolling down the evening passeggiata before dinner. Day trips include the lovely seaside towns of Otranto and Gallipoli for moreish local flavors.

The cosmopolitan city of Milan is not known for being incredibly ‘Italian’ as it lacks the cobbled streets and ochre buildings that Italy is best known for. However it has a wealth of culture to discover.

Milan also has great shopping opportunities, and that’s another aspect where Italy excels over Croatia – we definitely think it’s the better nation to shop till’ you drop.

The main sights include the majestic Sforza Castle , the incredibly detailed Duomo where you can climb up onto the roof, and the ornate Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – a shopping center with beautiful mosaics and designer stores.

Outside of this, the canal area offers chic eateries, all-you-can-eat sushi, street art galore and vintage shops plus bars to enjoy the city’s lively aperitif culture. 

When it comes to museums, culture, urban scenes, shopping and exceptional cities, Italy is hard to beat.

The traditional food of Croatia and Italy is an exciting cocktail of the various civilizations that have inhabited these nations. But for foodies, Italy is likely to be the dream destination.

Croatia: The Food

Croatia is still a foodie’s paradise though, as each region of the country typically has its own delicacies and traditional dishes.

The Croatian region of Dalmatia is particularly famous for its seafood centered dishes, and Octopus Salad is one of the areas most iconic meals.

Black risotto – found throughout the country – is another seafood speciality and is a squid ink rice dish that is often accompanied with shellfish.

Away from the coast, the region of Slavonia is known for its spicy sausages. Slavonian   kulen , made up of pork, spices, paprika and garlic, is a must try.

Rakija is the national drink of Croatia, and the perfect way to start or end your holiday! The beverage is distilled from locally grown fruit – usually plum – and is enjoyed straight up. Just remember to say Živjeli! – pronounced: zhivyelee – as you pick up your glass. That’s ‘cheers’ in Croatian!

Italy: The Food

The eight provinces of Northern Italy all offer unique culinary traditions, influenced by neighbouring countries such as France, Austria, and Slovenia.

In the Aosta Valley try Fontina cheese , with its milky and sweet flavors. In Emilia-Romagna you’ll come across piadini sandwiches , a flatbread stuffed with cheeses, hams, or salad.

Of course, the north is most famous for prosciutto di Parma (from Parma); balsamic vinegar (from Modena and Reggio); and Parmigiano Reggiano .

In Venice, sample, Risotto al Neri di Seppi , risotto flavored with cuttlefish and colored with its black ink.

South Italy is the birthplace of pizza! Go to Naples for an authentic classic Margherita pizza and fried pizza calzone style.

The Amalfi coast offers fresh seafood while you sip your Limoncello lemon liqueur – which also tastes good in cake form!

On Sicily, sample Nero d’Avola red wine, a native grape to the island and don’t leave without trying the wonderful couscous of Trapani or the pastries of Noto.

Croatia Or Italy: Which Is The Better Choice?

Which country is the better destination depends entirely on what you want from your vacation.

If beaches are your priority then Croatia will be a better holiday choice than Italy. Croatia has over 700 islands, and the coastline is spectacular.

It also has great hiking opportunities, and tends to be cheaper than Italy.

Italy is perfect for tourists who love exploring cities, and its urban centers are world-renowned for their art, culture, and exquisite buildings. The opportunities for sightseeing are probably greater in Italy, and the food scene is arguably better than Croatia too.

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Croatia vs Italy: Which Destination Should You Choose in 2024?

Planning your summer vacation and can’t decide between croatia or italy this guide on croatia vs italy will help you make the ultimate choice for your dream holiday..

Why should you listen to me? Well, I’ve called Croatia home since 2014 and even before becoming a full-time resident, I was a regular summer visitor.

Since moving here, I’ve made it my mission to discover every corner of Croatia and can confidently say that I know the country like the back of my hand (which is why I stared this blog in the first place!).

On top of that, Italy and Croatia are right next door to each other, with only the Adriatic Sea between them. And thanks to budget-friendly flights (shoutout to Ryanair!), I’ve had my fair share of Italian escapades.

I’ve roamed all the major tourist destinations like Rome, Florence, Cinque Terre, Venice, Naples, and Capri, and even lesser known locations like Lucca, Montecatini Terme, and Laghi di Fusine.

Both of these countries are incredible vacation destinations, but they are different in many ways, with one country having the edge over the other in certain categories. That’s why I’ve pulled together years of firsthand experiences to give you a comprehensive rundown of Italy vs Croatia to help you choose the best destination for your summer holiday.

In this travel blog, I’ll break down the highlights, attractions, local cuisine, and unique qualities of each country to help you make an informed choice.

So, are you Team Croatia or Team Italy? Let’s find out!

Table of Contents 👇

Croatia vs Italy Vacation: Which Country is Better?

🇭🇷  Croatia With over a thousand islands, quaint harbor towns, and pebbled beaches framed by azure waters, Croatia is a go-to destination for the ultimate summer vacation.

One of its major draws is its manageable size. Split, Dubrovnik, and celeb-favorite islands like Hvar can all easily be reached in just a few hours driving. Even the capital of Zagreb (totally worth visiting btw) can be reached in 3-4 hours depending on where you are on the coast.

Croatia’s countless islands make it the perfect destination for a sailing holiday-after all, the country does host yacht week every year! Whether you charter your own boat or hop on one of the many boat tours from Split or Dubrovnik, the best way to experience Croatia’s crystal clear waters is to glide over them.

🇮🇹 Italy Italy needs little introduction. This iconic boot-shaped country has been practically capturing hearts since the beginning of time. With coastlines along three major seas, this place has it all – from sun-kissed beaches to historic cities overflowing with art and ancient architectural marvels.

And the best part? You don’t even need to set foot in a museum to get a culture fix. Simply strolling through its charming piazzas, medieval hill towns, ornate bridges, and churches will transport you back in time.

If that wasn’t enough, Italy’s culinary scene is nothing short of legendary. From the simplicity of a margherita pizza to the indulgence of osso buco, Italian food is simply irresistible. You’d need several lifetimes to try every mouthwatering dish this country has to offer.

Croatia and Italy Map

Take a look at the Croatia Italy map below to get an idea of how close the countries actually are to each other.

Is Croatia cheaper than Italy?

While Croatia used to be a go-to for budget travel, things have changed, especially with the recent introduction of the Euro. Famous spots like Dubrovnik and Hvar have reached a price point that competes head-to-head with Italy’s iconic destinations. But if you wander off the beaten path, you can still find some deals along Croatia’s coast.

Italy is super popular for summer trips, and that popularity comes with a price tag. It’s not dirt-cheap, but it’s not break-the-bank expensive either, especially if you plan carefully (and well in advance).

Of course, the price of your trip in either country will vary depending on several factors: when you go, how long you stay, where you stay, and what you do. But if we’re talking averages, Croatia still has a bit of an edge when it comes to being easier on the wallet.

🇭🇷  Croatia has gotten expensive , but it’s still slightly cheaper than Italy.

Does Italy or Croatia have better food?

When it comes to food, Italy has a reputation that’s hard to beat. From the birthplace of pizza in Naples—where I had pizza so delicious it practically melted in my mouth—to the array of renowned dishes like pasta, risotto, and gelato, Italy is a food lover’s paradise.

Croatian cuisine, on the other hand, is a mix of flavors shaped by its history and geography. The food you’ll taste in Croatia depends on where you are traveling. In the northern and eastern regions, you’ll discover a menu influenced by former ruling empires like Hungary, Austria, and Turkey. Expect hearty, meat-centric dishes like paprikash, schnitzel, and stuffed cabbage.

Yet, Croatia isn’t without its Italian influence, owing to its historical ties to the Roman Empire. In places like the Istrian peninsula and Dalmatia, you’ll find a tasty blend of Croatian and Italian traditions. Not to mention Zagreb’s restaurant scene which is bursting with international flavors.

But given its iconic dishes and global influence…

🇮🇹 Italy is the clear winner when it comes to food.

One of my top recommendations for traveling anywhere, but especially Italy, is to join a food tour. This gives you a unique way to experience the local cuisine and learn about the country’s culture through its food. These tours are also a great way to meet locals in an intimate setting.

Here are some food tours to check out while visiting Italy:

• Naples Street Food Tour (This is the exact food tour I went on in Naples and it was the highlight of our trip! You can see some clips from it in the video above.)
• Rome Food T our
• Florence Street Food Tour
• Venice Street Food Tour
• Palermo Night Street Food Tour

Over 500 locations at your fingertips

Get access to my 🇭🇷 Croatia Google Map for FREE, including my top recommendations for restaurants, bars, beaches, must-visit attractions and more. Drop your email below and I’ll send it to you so that you can travel Croatia like a local ! 🇭🇷

Who has better national parks: Croatia or Italy?

Do any quick search online and you’ll find that Plitvice Lakes National Park is a must-see in Croatia. With its 16 cascading, turquoise lakes interlinked by a series of breathtaking waterfalls, this park is a real-life fairy tale setting.

I’ve been too many times to count and have visited in every single season, and I can say with certainty that it blows me away every time. The lakes shimmer a million shades of blue, the nature is pristine, and the entire area just looks like a postcard.

If you’re closer to the coast and want to experience something similar, Krka National Park just 1 hour from Split or Mljet National Park is a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik.

Italy, on the other hand, lays claim to the dramatic Dolomites. This mountain range in the northeastern part of the country is an adventurer’s dream, offering an impressive amount of hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities. The jagged peaks of the Dolomites are breathtakingly gorgeous, especially when viewed from the top of Monte Cristallo in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

And let’s not forget Cinque Terre (yes, it’s also a national park!). I first visited these five charming, cliffside villages along the Italian Riviera in 2012 before they became even more famous thanks to the movie Luca . It’s one of my favorite places in Italy — from the many trails to explore, amazing swimming spots, and delicious seafood restaurants, you can easily spend days hopping between the towns.

So after weighing both sides…

🇮🇹 Italy wins this category for best national parks.

Pro tip: If you’re traveling to Italy soon, make sure you download the best Italy travel apps !

Which country has the best islands?

Island allure is undeniable in both Croatia and Italy, making this a tough call.

Croatia’s coastline is dotted with over 1,000 islands, ranging from the glamorous hotspots of Hvar and Brac to lesser-known ones like Vis. Since all of Croatia’s islands run parallel to the mainland, the setup is practically designed for island-hopping, making it a breeze to explore multiple locations on a single trip.

Croatia’s islands are easy to navigate and you can even DIY your own island hopping route for a fraction of the cost of a tour. Plus, with so many islands to choose from, there are plenty of secluded spots to escape the crowds.

Italy, on the other hand, has fewer islands but they are stunners . Think Capri’s dazzling cliffs and azure waters or Sardinia’s sublime beaches. While Italy’s islands are breathtaking and iconic, they can also be quite expensive and may require more strategic planning to avoid the throngs of tourists.

In the end, if you want variety, ease of travel, and the option for both social scenes and secluded getaways, Croatia is the perfect destination for your island holiday.

🇭🇷  Croatia’s islands take the crown.

Does Italy or Croatia have better beaches?

Let’s talk Italy first. Yes, the Amalfi Coast is drop-dead gorgeous with its cliffside villages and deep blue waters. But if you’re a beach lover like me, you might find the black sand beaches of places like Positano a bit underwhelming.

Italy does have some gems, particularly in Sardinia and Sicily, where breathtaking slices of coastline meet crystal-clear waters. However, there’s a catch—many of Italy’s best beaches are private, requiring you to fork over some euros for a spot on the sand. The “free” sections of beach (if you can find them) can be disappointing in comparison.

On the flip side, the beaches in Croatia along the coast and on the islands are immaculate and free. Yes, even in expensive places like Dubrovnik . Primarily pebbled or rocky, the sea sparkles in the Mediterranean sun and you can typically see all the way to the bottom of the sea floor.

Even the Italians recognize Croatia’s beach superiority! Each year, many cross the Adriatic for “Ferragosto,” an August holiday, to enjoy Croatia’s less crowded, more pristine beaches.

When it comes to beach bliss, Italy and Croatia offer two very different experiences, but for me, Croatia wins hands down.

🇭🇷 Croatia has better beaches than Italy.

Italy vs Croatia: Which country is better for a road trip?

If you’re on a tight schedule but still want a hearty dose of culture, breathtaking scenery, and quaint pit-stops, Croatia is your go-to. Nothing quite compares to cruising along the coastal road all the way to Dubrovnik, pulling over for a spontaneous tasting at a roadside Croatian winery or a quick swim in an isolated cove along the way.

With its compact size, Croatia lets you easily tick off multiple destinations in less time.

Italy, on the other hand, is the dream for those with a leisurely pace in mind. Hasn’t everyone fantasized about going on a road trip through Tuscany’s rolling hills and stopping for pasta in a medieval town, or is that just me?

Either way, Italy’s landscapes provide film-worthy road trip scenery. The country is overflowing with charming old towns and endless possibilities for exploring. But due to its sheer size, you’ll need more time to experience it all.

When it comes to road-tripping, both Italy and Croatia offer uniquely rewarding experiences, but they cater to different types of travelers and timelines.

🇭🇷 🇮🇹   It’s a tie!

Pro tip: When renting a car in Italy, do be extra careful, especially in popular places like the Amalfi Coast. Navigation can be challenging if you lack experience, and heavy summer traffic can put a damper on your vacation. Plus, it’s important to note that some roads are restricted exclusively for local residents.

Which country has more interesting history?

Croatia offers an interesting fusion of cultural influences, reflecting its diverse past rulers, from Romans to Byzantines, Greeks to Austro-Hungarians. Along the Dalmatian coast and the northwestern peninsula of Istria , the remnants of Venetian rule are evident in the abundance of Italian-style architecture and well-preserved historical ruins.

Look no further than the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace in Split and the well-preserved Pula Arena – the sole surviving Roman amphitheater with all four side towers intact.

Meanwhile, Italy is home to cities brimming with cultural richness, full of awe-inspiring architecture, ancient ruins, captivating sculptures, and exquisite paintings. It is the birthplace of an impressive lineup of influential figures, from Roman emperors to Renaissance geniuses. Think Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Galileo, and Christopher Columbus just to name a few.

Plus, cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice are virtually open-air museums, offering endless opportunities to explore the country’s past.

Italy has had a major impact on global art, science, and philosophy, and for that reason…

🇮🇹 Italy wins the category for more interesting history.

Is Croatia or Italy better for luxury travel?

Croatia is a rising star in the world of luxury travel, attracting celebrities and high-profile individuals from around the globe. Destinations like Dubrovnik and Hvar have become magnets for A-list celebrities and high-net-worth individuals.

Sure, Dubrovnik has a rep for being expensive , but its allure is undeniable. Picture-perfect at every turn, it offers luxe experiences for those willing to splurge. Beyond Dubrovnik, the Istrian Peninsula has become a refuge for upscale European travelers, featuring some truly impressive 5 star hotels that give any luxury establishment a run for its money.

Italy, on the other hand, has long been the go-to for those seeking “la dolce vita” – the good life. With iconic destinations like Lake Como, Portofino, and the Amalfi Coast, Italy has the upper hand when it comes to global recognition. Don’t even get me started on Capri.

This glam island is practically a runway for designer brands, boasting high-end boutiques from Prada to Gucci. On top of that, the country’s history of fashion and art adds another layer to its luxury appeal.

Whether it’s million dollar villas overlooking the sea or the sheer variety of designer shops selling irresistible Italian souvenirs , the country simply has a proven track record of delivering on high-end experiences.

While both countries offer their own versions of opulence, Italy still has the edge when it comes old-world, established luxury.

🇮🇹 Italy offers the best luxury travel experiences.

Which country is safer for solo travelers?

Generally speaking, both Italy and Croatia are safe for solo travelers.

I’ve been living in Croatia since 2014 and visiting the country since I can remember. I’ve never felt unsafe, even when walking alone at night. Even the capital city of Zagreb is safe and there are no particular areas you should avoid. Of course, as with anywhere you go, you should always be aware of your surroundings.

Italy is also considered a very safe country. The only major risk, particularly in tourist areas, is petty theft. While I’ve always felt safe when traveling Italy, my local Italian guide (from the Naples food tour I mentioned earlier) did caution us against going to certain areas of town after dark.

This is something I’ve never experienced in Croatia in my 25 years of living in and traveling in the country, so for that reason, I’m going to give this one to Croatia.

🇭🇷 Croatia is safer for solo travel .

Is Croatia better than Italy?

Both Italy and Croatia are different in their offerings, so which one is “better” really depends on the type of trip you’re after. If island hopping and stunning coastlines what you dream of, Croatia is for you. On the other hand, Italy is perfect for those looking for a cultural experience with its many incredible cities and historical sites (and amazing food).

Which country is cheaper Croatia or Italy?

Despite its rising popularity and subsequent increases in prices, Croatia generally remains slightly less expensive than Italy. However, it’s worth noting that hotspots like Dubrovnik and Hvar can be on par with Italian destinations when it comes to expenses.

Is Croatia similar to Italy?

Yes, Croatia and Italy do share similarities, partly because of their geographical proximity and historical ties. However, each country has its own unique character and traditions that set it apart.

How is Croatia different from Italy?

Both countries offer Mediterranean climates and coastal beauty, but they have distinct differences including geography, cuisine, culture, and prices.

Does Croatia look like Italy?

Some parts of Croatia do resemble Italy, especially regions like Dalmatia and Istria which were historically influenced by Italian or Venetian rule.

The Verdict: Italy vs Croatia

So, there you have it—the ultimate guide comparing Croatia and Italy, two of Europe’s most captivating summer destinations. By now, you’ve got a solid rundown on everything from the beaches, historical sites, and road-trip potential to the luxury experiences and cost of travel in each country.

If it’s the effortless island-hopping and crystal-clear Adriatic waters you’re after, Croatia might just be your slice of paradise. But if you’re craving a journey rich in art, culture, and world-renowned cuisine, then Italy is hard to resist.

Ultimately, which one is “best” truly depends on what you’re looking to get out of your vacation. You really can’t go wrong with either!

Instead of choosing between the two , why not enjoy the best of both worlds with these Italy and Croatia itineraries ?

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Croatia Travel Planning Guide

💸 What is the currency in Croatia? As of January 1st, 2023, the official currency of Croatia is the Euro and NOT the Kuna (which is also the name of the national animal of Croatia ). 🇭🇷 What language do they speak in Croatia? Croatian is the official language of Croatia . Learn some phrases in Croatian before your trip with the Ling app ! 🚑 Should I buy Croatia travel insurance? 10000% YES – Seriously, don’t leave home without it . You never know what can happen on the road. I like SafetyWing because they provide excellent coverage for as little as $1.50 a day. 📱 Will my phone work in Croatia? Maybe – check with your provider to see if you’ll have service while traveling Croatia. If you don’t have service (or it’s too expensive) I recommend getting an eSIM like Airalo . Airalo allows you to have data while traveling without the high costs of roaming. They have super affordable plans available for 190+ countries, including Croatia. Download the app and get your plan before you leave home so that you have data as soon as you touch down in Croatia! 🏨 What’s the best way to book my Croatia accommodations? For Croatia hotels, Booking is by far the best site. 🛫 What’s the best site to buy Croatia flights? I always use Skyscanner to find the cheapest flights. 🚗  Is it safe to rent a Car in Croatia? Yes! – In fact, renting a car in Croatia is one of the best ways to see the country! I recommend Discover Cars because they check both local and international rental companies to ensure you get the best deal. (Get your Croatia road trip itinerary here ) 💦 Is it safe to drink the water in Croatia? Tap water in Croatia is completely safe to drink , so bring your reusable water bottle and fill up! 🪪 Do I need a visa for Croatia? Depending on where you are coming from you may or may not need a visa to enter Croatia. Check the official Republic of Croatia Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for more information on who should apply for a visa.

Fueled by her passion for travel and her Croatian heritage, Olivia left the USA in 2014 to study abroad in Croatia where she has been living ever since. She founded Inspired by Croatia to share travel tips, destination guides, and exclusive local insights about the country she now calls home.

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Travelling Without a Passport

Italy vs Croatia: Where Should You Go?

Bella Italia versus the less touristy land of Croatia , growing in popularity each year. It’s a luxurious problem to have, choosing between these two rich vacation destinations of Europe, but it is not an easy choice when it comes to your next touring adventure! 

The good news is that no matter whether you decide to visit Croatia or visit Italy, you can be sure that you’ll have an amazing holiday, surrounded by unspoilt nature, historical towns and cities and pristine beaches.

Are you ready to stamp your passport? Take a look at the most popular tours travelling to Italy and the most popular tours travelling to Croatia. 

Italian highlights vs Croatian highlights

Both Italy and Croatia are famous for their azure blue oceans, making them great destinations for beach holidays, combined with visits to pretty historical towns to soak up some history and the modern-day culture.

Do you want to travel through Italy being part of a small group tour? Check our options here .

Of course, Italians are most famous for yummy ‘Mama Mia’ Italian food, great red wines and cappuccinos. The English of the locals might not be perfect but they sure are masters of body language. Italy is home to some of Europe’s most amazing cities with countless wonders of the Roman Empire to admire and the rugged landscape is beautiful! (Also, you can also check out our collection of cultural tours of Italy )

This ancient city is without a doubt one of the highlights of Europe, where art, Roman architecture and the rich Italian culture meet. Home to the Vatican, the world famous Colosseum, the Pantheon and many, many more historical sites to blow your mind away, Rome can simply not be missed during your Italy trip!

Have a relaxed mindset. Nothing is going to be on time in Italy. Make sure that you eat lunch early, as many restaurants and cafes are closed for siesta in the afternoon and re-open for dinner. And most importantly: don’t drive in Rome. Just don’t.  I think everyone can find something for themselves in Italy. Foodies will be happy, nature loves will find great hikes, waterfalls and beaches, those interested in culture will be in 7th heaven and couples can always enjoy romantic cities. – Anna, Anna Everywhere

Another iconic Italian holiday destination that is certainly as romantic as Paris. This floating city, built on more than 100 small islands in a bay of north Italy, is ruled by beautiful canals, countless traditional Venetian gondola boats and stunning architecture and bridges from ancient times.

See Also: 12 Reasons Everyone Loves Italy (and why you will too)

Florence is the capital city of Italy’s much-loved Tuscany region, and it is the birthplace of the Renaissance. Those who appreciate art, culture and Renaissance architecture should not miss out on visiting this sprawling city. 

Milan is the fashion cosmopolitan of Europe. This chic and sophisticated designers’ city is a shopping paradise, combined with a lively nightlife, lots of museums, and again, gorgeous Gothic and Roman architecture.

The Italian beaches

No, we didn’t forget about the beautiful beaches that Italy has to offer. Of course, at some point you have to get out of the city and head off to one of Italy’s islands, simply enjoying the laid-back beach vibes, drinking the best Italian wines and munch a whole lot of Italian food. Italy is surrounded by water, giving you lots of options – in the south, there are beautiful islands to be visited such as the Tremiti islands, Sicily and Sardinia.

Everyone can enjoy Italy in different ways. It’s quite family-friendly, Italians love babies and kids. But can of course be extremely romantic, too. We loved visiting the prosecco wine region about an hour outside of Venice. It has yet to be infiltrated by tourists and is extremely authentic and lovely–though not as English-speaking as touristy cities are. Also, Pack lightly and if you’re going in the summer, pack very lightweight clothing. Comfortable shoes that are easy to walk on cobblestone and up big hills are helpful as well. – Katie, Katie Lara

Croatia features countless islands, beautiful rocky beaches, medieval towns with ancient city walls and no less than eight beautiful national parks. The popular series Games of Thrones chose Croatia as their filming set, gaining Croatia popularity in the last few years. It is quite amazing to see the magnificent cultural and natural heritage sites with your own eyes, taking you back to an era long bygone.

See Also: 7 Ways To Get Yourself Excited For Your Trip To Italy

While strolling around in this ancient walled city, you will feel as if you are transported back in time to the Middle Ages. The series Games of Thrones  regularly uses this beautiful city as their filming location and you will soon know why.

See Also: rom Krk to Pag: We Rank Croatia’s Top Islands

Split is the second largest city in Croatia and it is a wonderful place where ancient and modern times meet. Within the atmospheric city walls, urban city vibes await, ruled by lively streets full of shops, bars, and restaurants.

See Also: 5 Reasons Why Croatia is Absolute Paradise

Plitvice Lakes

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the oldest national parks in all of Europe, and it is breathtakingly beautiful, like an enchanted fairytale forest you can get lost in forever. The park is ruled by colours of emerald green, azure blue, and tonnes of cascading waterfalls. A dream come true for every nature lover.

Islands in the Adriatic Sea

Croatia has no less than 1200 islands, making it a great island-hopping tourist destination. There are islands with glorious desolate beaches and wildlife such as Mljet and Losinj, islands with a rich history such as Korcula, where Marco Polo was born, and islands with buzzing nightlife such as Hvar. There is something for everyone!

• Food & Drink

Food in Italy

Where to start? Food might even be the main reason why people travel to Italy. Everywhere in the world, we try to make Italian pizza and pasta, but of course, they are never as good anywhere else but in the country of origin. Wine lovers just can’t get enough of the tasty Italian Montepulciano wines and the local Italian spirits are also famous worldwide and much-loved such as Amaretto and Sambuca.

It’s easy and inexpensive to eat well in Italy. Splashing out on a fancy dinner is fun, but the quality of food is so exceptional even a quick bite in a cafe was a life changing experience. Our favorite meals were sitting outside a small restaurant we just happened to stumble upon, people watching and drinking a great glass of Italian wine! Italy has something for everyone! It’s an equally great place to visit for a student or a budget traveler as it is for people looking for a luxurious destination. – Kelly, A Side of Sweet

See Also: The Perfect Italy Packing List For Spring

Food in Croatia

The food in Croatia is influenced by all of its neighbouring countries. Depending on where in Croatia you are travelling, you can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine reminiscent of Greece (especially if you are taking one of the sailing trips in Croatia that we have). In the north, the kitchen is ruled by the Slavic culture where they love to cook meat stews with potatoes and the like. If you are a meat lover, you will not be disappointed! The traditional local drink is Rakia, a strong alcoholic drink distilled from fruits. When Rakia is passed around, it is a sign of hospitality.

Do you want to travel through Croatia being part of a small group tour? Check our options here .

When it comes down to budget, Croatia wins over Italy. The local currency in Croatia is the Kuna and in Italy, it is the Euro. Prices are around twice as high in Italy. For instance, half a litre of draught beer costs around $4.40 in Italy and $2.05 in Croatia. Public transport is also more expensive in Italy with a taxi charging 89 cents per kilometre in Croatia and $1.64 in Italy.

You can also get a monthly pass for public transportation in both countries, and this is surprisingly a couple of dollars cheaper in Italy.

When it comes to accommodation, both countries have the option of camping, staying at affordable guesthouses and in cheap, midrange or high-end hotels. Again, this is a bit cheaper in Croatia than it is in Italy. On the other hand, Italy is still a more affordable holiday destination than many other countries in Europe such as their direct neighbour Switzerland, but also Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

For those looking to explore Dubrovnik, try to work around the busy cruise ship and sailing days. Do a bit of research ahead of time to see when the boats tend to arrive, and plan your visit around those dates. It’s a beautiful city, but it gets incredibly overcrowded. Make sure to get up early as well, before the masses come.  My favorite place was Zadar. Compared to the other coastal towns like Split and Dubrovnik, it had much more of a local rather than tourist feel. It was also more budget friendly, with lots to do nearby including Plitvice and Krka. I loved Croatia as a solo female traveler. It was easy to get around, there were plenty of hostels to chose from to meet other solo travelers, and I always felt safe; even at night. – Hannah, Eat Sleep Breathe Travel

We know you’re going to fall in love with both destinations. Take a look tours to Italy and  tours to Croatia. 

Sebastian P.

From his hometown of Sydney, Australia, Sebastian has turned travel into a profession. Starting out as a tour guide in Sydney, he then moved to Europe to lead tours across the continent, before returning home where he continues inspiring others to find their own adventures.

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Home > Italy Or Croatia – Destination Comparison Guide Croatia Vs. Italy

Italy Or Croatia – Destination Comparison Guide Croatia Vs. Italy

Written by our local expert SJ

Sarah-Jane has lived in Croatia for 10+ years. SJ, as she is known, has been traveling the Balkans & beyond since 2000. She now shares her passion for traveling with her husband & kids.

In this article, I’m excited to share with you all that I’ve learned about Croatia and Italy, drawn from my own life in Croatia and numerous journeys to Italy.

As a resident of Croatia, a seasoned traveler to Italy, and an enthusiast for all things Mediterranean, I bring a unique perspective to help you navigate these two amazing destinations.

Let’s delve into the distinct qualities that make both countries remarkable. Croatia and Italy are akin to two sides of the same Mediterranean coin, each boasting a blend of delicious food, historical marvels, small and large cities, a Mediterranean climate, blue waters, and modern flair, yet each with its own uniqueness.

I’ll guide you through the must-visit locations, hidden treasures, and cultural experiences that define these places.

Living in Croatia , I’ve come to appreciate its more than just breathtaking coastlines. Italy, which I’ve visited frequently, delights with its timeless art, delectable cuisine, and picturesque landscapes.

In comparing these two destinations, I’ll provide insights to help you determine which might be the perfect choice for your next journey.

So, come along, let’s embark on this adventure to uncover the distinct allure that both Croatia and Italy have to offer.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Reasons To Go To Croatia

Rijeka might not be the first name that pops up for a Croatian getaway, but trust me, it’s a hidden treasure, especially for island hoppers. This city’s got a mix of industrial feel and easy access to serene islands. 

2. Rovinj 

Rovinj is more than its Instagram-worthy views . Stroll down its cobblestone lanes and hang out at the vibrant harbor, and you’re in for a cultural treat. If you’re weighing Italy against Croatia, Rovinj’s authentic local vibe is something to consider.

Opatija’s all about that Austro-Hungarian style with a seaside twist. Beyond its picturesque coast, this place is a nod to Croatia’s eco-friendly tourism. Wander along its classy promenades and soak in the cultural harmony. 

4. Pula 

Let’s talk about Pula . It’s not just a city; it’s a time machine! The Roman Amphitheater here isn’t just a pile of old rocks; it’s a journey to an era long gone. If you’re juggling between Italy and Croatia for your next trip , Pula’s historical vibes might tip the scales.

Split is where you’ll see Croatia’s past and present hanging out together. Walking through Diocletian’s Palace is like stepping into history but with a modern beat. 

6. Croatia’s Coastline

Croatia’s coast is a mix of beautiful beaches, each offering something unique, from quiet spots to buzzing beach towns. If you’re deciding between Croatia and Italy, consider these coastal treasures in Croatia that are just waiting for you to explore.

7. Croatian Festivals

Croatia’s festival scene really shines, especially if you’re into a vibrant mix of cultural and musical events. Let’s start with the Dubrovnik Summer Festival.

Here’s the scene: you’re in the walled city of Dubrovnik, a city that looks like it’s leaped out of a fairytale, surrounded by historic walls. This festival brings an array of performances, from music to theater and dance, blending classical and modern vibes. It’s a unique experience set in a stunning location that’s hard to beat.

Now, for a deep dive into Croatian history, the Sinjska Alka in Sinj is a must-see. This is not just any festival; it’s a medieval knight’s tournament, a tradition going strong since the 18th century. It’s a real-life history lesson, complete with knights in armor jousting it out. It’s a spectacular glimpse into Croatia’s past, brought to life in the present.

But wait, there’s more – especially if you’re into music. Head over to Zrće on Pag Island, renowned for its electrifying music festivals . This place is a haven for electronic music lovers.

Imagine beach parties, world-class DJs, and non-stop music, all in a picturesque island setting. It’s a hotspot for anyone looking to dance the night (and day) away in a breathtaking coastal setting.

Croatia’s festivals offer something for everyone. From historical reenactments to cutting-edge music parties, these events are more than just entertainment; they’re an insight into Croatia’s diverse culture and traditions.

When planning your trip, keep an eye on the festival calendar – you’re bound to find something that’ll be the highlight of your Croatian adventure .

8. Croatian National Parks

When you step into Croatia’s national parks , you step into some of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders. Plitvice Lakes National Park isn’t just a park; it’s a marvel with its waterfalls tumbling into vibrant green lakes – it’s like walking into a living postcard.

And then there’s Krka National Park . Imagine wandering through a labyrinth of waterways and waterfalls – it’s peace and adventure wrapped into one.

If you’re on the fence about choosing between Italy and Croatia, think about what kind of natural beauty speaks to you. These parks aren’t just sights to see; they’re experiences that stay with you.

Reasons To Go To Italy

1. rome .

Are you heading to Rome? Prepare to step back in time. The city is a live museum, with landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City telling tales of ancient grandeur. 

2. Florence

Florence is a dream come true for fans of the Renaissance. Home to the Uffizi Gallery, where you’ll find works by the greats like Botticelli and Michelangelo, it’s a reminder of Italy’s deep artistic roots. If your heart’s torn between Italy and Croatia, the artistic charm of Florence could sway your decision.

Venice is a world of its own, a mesmerizing maze of canals flanked by historic buildings. Take a boat ride along the Grand Canal and witness the lavishness of Venetian life. If you’re stuck choosing between Italy and Croatia, Venice’s unique waterways and romantic vibe might be the clincher.

4. Italy’s Varied Landscapes

From Tuscany’s rolling hills to the Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs, Italy’s landscapes are a feast for the eyes.

The Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site , are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, while Umbria’s peaceful countryside offers a chance to unwind. When planning your trip, whether it’s from Croatia to Italy or vice versa, these diverse Italian landscapes are worth considering.

5. Exploring Italy’s Vibrant Festivals

When you’re planning a trip to Italy, it’s not just about the iconic landmarks and mouth-watering cuisine; it’s also about immersing yourself in a world brimming with vibrant festivals.

These events are more than just parties; they’re a window into Italy’s soul, where history, religion, and art blend seamlessly.

Let’s start with the Venice Carnival . Imagine stepping into a painting where everyone is masked and costumed, turning the entire city into a scene straight out of a fantasy.

This isn’t just any carnival; it’s a historical journey that transforms Venice into a wonderland of mystery and elegance. The streets buzz with excitement, and the air is thick with anticipation as masked revelers parade around. If you’re a fan of the extraordinary, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

Next up, the Palio in Siena. This isn’t your average horse race. The Palio is steeped in history, dating back to the 17th century. There is fierce competition between the city’s districts, and the energy is electric.

The thunder of hooves, the passionate cheers of the crowd, and the colorful banners create an atmosphere that’s both thrilling and deeply rooted in tradition. If you’re in Siena during the Palio, you’re in for a treat.

But Italy’s festival scene isn’t just about these big names. Each region has its own unique celebrations. From the lemon festivals in the Amalfi Coast to the truffle fairs in Piedmont, every event is a unique expression of local culture and traditions. These festivals are the perfect opportunity to dive into the local lifestyle. You’ll get to enjoy authentic Italian food, music, and traditions that are hard to find anywhere else.

So, as you plan your Italian getaway, consider timing your visit to coincide with one of these incredible festivals. It’s not just about seeing a new place; it’s about experiencing it in full color and vitality.

Italy’s festivals offer a chance to see the country through the eyes of its people and trust me; it’s an experience that’s as exceptional as Italy itself.

6. Italian Coastal Charm

Italy’s coastline is all about glamour and variety, with beaches to suit every preference. As you decide between Italy and Croatia for your seaside holiday, think about the distinct allure each country’s coast has to offer.

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Italy or croatia for the budget.

When thinking about where to jet off for your next summer vacation, the decision often comes down to more than just picturesque views and cultural experiences.

Let’s talk money because, let’s face it, it’s a big deal when planning a trip.

Let’s start with Croatia. If you’re watching your wallet, you’re in luck here. Croatia is pretty wallet-friendly. You’ll find places to stay and eat that won’t make your bank account cry. It’s a solid pick for those who want to experience beauty and culture without the hefty price tag.

Then there’s Italy. Ah, Italy! It’s kind of like the fancy restaurant of travel destinations. Think Rome, Florence, Venice – these places are stunning, but they don’t come cheap. If you’re ready to treat yourself and don’t mind spending more, Italy’s your go-to for that extra bit of luxury.

So, when you’re weighing up Croatia vs. Italy, think about your budget. Both have heaps to offer, but how much you’re willing to spend might be the deciding factor.

So, Which Country Is Cheaper

When it comes to budget-friendly travel, Croatia wins compared to Italy. Your money tends to go further in Croatia, whether you’re looking at accommodation, dining out, or activities.

Italy is known for its rich history, art, and cuisine, but these come with a higher price tag. In contrast, Croatia offers stunning coastlines, historic sites, and delicious food at more affordable prices. So, if you’re trying to stretch your travel budget, Croatia might be the way to go.

Pros & Cons List

Visit croatia.

• Scenic Coastline: Stunning Adriatic Sea and Dalmatian coast
• Historical Sites: Rich history, including Diocletian’s Palace in Split and Dubrovnik’s old town
• Affordable Prices: Generally lower cost of accommodation , dining, and attractions
• Less Crowded: Certain areas may be less crowded, offering a more tranquil experience
• Unique Culture: Distinctive blend of Mediterranean and Eastern European influences
• Limited Transportation: May require more time to travel between destinations, especially islands
• Language Barrier: Language may be a barrier outside tourist areas, with fewer English speakers
• Less Developed Infrastructure: Some areas may have less developed infrastructure, affecting amenities
• Weather Variability: Weather can be unpredictable, with sudden changes affecting outdoor plans
• Tourist Crowds: Popular destinations may be crowded, particularly during peak seasons

Visit Italy

• Beautiful Mediterranean coastline
• Abundance of historical landmarks like the Colosseum in Rome and the canals of Venice
• Wide range of accommodation options catering to different budgets
• Offers quieter spots away from tourist hubs
• Rich cultural heritage with art, music, and cuisine
• Some cities may have limited public transportation options
• Communication may be challenging in less touristy regions
• Developed infrastructure may lead to higher costs
• Climate may be hot and crowded during peak tourist seasons
• High tourist traffic can lead to long queues and crowded attractions

Italy Vs. Croatia Transportation Guide

Having explored both Italy and Croatia extensively, I’ve gathered some personal experiences and travel tips that might help you navigate these countries more smoothly.

Driving In Italy: A Tale Of Two Experiences

Driving in the Italian countryside was an absolute delight. Picture this: rolling hills, vineyards stretching to the horizon, and those quaint little towns – it’s like driving through a postcard. However, when we decided to take our car into Rome, let’s say it was a different story.

In Rome, the traffic was overwhelming, and navigating the narrow, bustling streets felt like a scene from an action movie. We ended up returning the car just 15 minutes after driving into Rome from Puglia! My advice? Enjoy the countryside by car, but stick to public transport in the cities.

Italian Trains Vs. Croatian Trains: A Clear Winner

Trains in Italy ? Spot on! They were clean, well-organized, and always seemed to run on time. Whether it was a high-speed train between major cities or a regional one meandering through lesser-known areas, the experience was consistently good.

On the other hand, trains in Croatia don’t quite match up. In fact, they are not really worth considering for travel at all, as they aren’t as extensive or reliable as other modes of transport here.

Living And Driving In Croatia: A Local’s Perspective

Living in Croatia, we’ve gotten entirely used to driving around. The roads are generally in good shape (but the tolls are pricey), and the views? It’s simply stunning, especially along the coast. But when it comes to navigating the trams in Zagreb, it can get a bit tricky.

It’s not that they’re complicated, but they do require a bit of getting used to. Once you get the hang of it, though, they’re a convenient way to get around the city.

Croatian Ferries: Efficient But Busy

The ferries in Croatia are a dream – clean, punctual, and offering some fantastic views of the Adriatic. But a word of caution: they get super busy in the summer.

If you plan to take your car on a ferry, I recommend getting there at least an hour early to avoid any last-minute rush. The queues can be long, and spaces fill up quickly. It’s always better to be early and secure your spot than to miss out on these essential connections between the islands and the mainland.

In conclusion, whether you’re driving through the picturesque landscapes of Italy or hopping on a ferry in Croatia, each experience has its own charm and challenges. With a bit of planning and these insider tips, you’ll be well-equipped to enjoy your journey in these beautiful Mediterranean countries.

Getting around Italy and Croatia is part of the adventure! Whether you’re zipping through historic cities or hopping between Croatian islands , understanding your transport options is key. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate these beautiful countries with ease.

Transportation In Italy

Italy’s transport network is extensive and varied, offering multiple ways to explore the country’s diverse landscapes.

• Trains : Italy’s train network is a traveler’s dream. High-speed trains like Frecciarossa and Italo connect major cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence in a flash. For slower, scenic routes, regional trains are your go-to. Prices vary, but booking in advance can snag you some great deals
• Buses : Buses in Italy are a cost-effective way to reach places not accessible by train. Companies like FlixBus and MarinoBus offer long-distance routes, while local buses cover shorter distances
• Car Rentals : For ultimate flexibility, renting a car is a fantastic option, especially for exploring the countryside. Just remember, driving in Italian cities can be challenging due to traffic and limited parking
• Ferries : To visit islands like Sicily or Sardinia, ferries are your best bet. They’re frequent and offer a unique way to see Italy’s coastline
• Within Cities : Major cities have efficient public transport systems. Rome, Milan, and Naples boast metro systems, while Venice’s vaporettos (water buses) are a unique way to get around

Transportation In Croatia

Croatia’s beauty lies in its coastline and islands, and getting around here offers its own kind of thrill.

• Buses : Croatia’s bus network is extensive and reliable. It’s the most popular way to travel between cities and towns, with companies like Arriva and FlixBus running frequent services
• Trains : while Croatia’s train network isn’t as extensive as Italy’s, it’s an affordable option for routes like Zagreb to Split . However, for coastal and island destinations, buses and ferries are more practical
• Car Rentals : renting a car in Croatia gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially for coastal drives and visiting national parks. The roads are generally good, and the scenery is stunning
• Ferries : essential for island hopping , ferries connect the mainland to islands like Hvar, Korcula, and Brač. Jadrolinija is the leading ferry operator, offering regular services
• Within Cities : cities like Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and Split are walkable and have good public transport networks for longer distances. Local buses are the main mode of city transport

Accommodation Differences Between Italy And Croatia

Planning where to stay in Croatia and Italy can be as exciting as choosing the destinations themselves. Both countries offer a variety of accommodations to suit any style and budget. Let’s break it down so you can find the perfect place to rest your head after a day of exploring.

Italy: A Blend Of Luxury And Cozy Stays

In Italy, you’re spoilt for choice. From high-end hotels in Rome and Florence to quaint B&Bs in the countryside, there’s something for everyone.

• Luxury Hotels : in major cities and tourist hotspots like Venice or the Amalfi Coast, expect to find luxury hotels oozing with elegance. But remember, luxury here comes with a price tag – think upwards of €200 a night
• Mid-range Hotels : for something less splurgy but still comfortable, mid-range hotels in Italy offer decent amenities. Prices range from €100 to €200 per night, depending on the location
• Budget Options : if you’re keeping an eye on your euros, hostels and budget hotels are your friends, especially in big cities. Prices can be as low as €30-€50 a night
• Vacation Rentals : fancy living like a local? Vacation rentals, like Airbnb, are increasingly popular, giving you a home-away-from-home experience. Prices vary widely, from budget-friendly to luxury

Croatia: From Coastal Retreats To Affordable City Stays

Croatia’s accommodation scene is diverse, with a focus on affordable luxury and charming local stays.

• Seaside Resorts : along the coast, especially in places like Dubrovnik and Split, you’ll find beautiful resorts. They’re a bit pricier but offer stunning sea views. Expect to pay around €100-€250 per night
• City Hotels : in cities, hotels range from luxury to more affordable options. Prices in the capital city of Zagreb or Split can range from €50 to €150 per night
• Hostels and Guesthouses : for budget travelers , hostels and guesthouses are the go-to. They’re affordable (around €20-€40 a night) and often come with a warm, local vibe
• Private Rentals : like in Italy, private rentals are a great way to immerse yourself in Croatian life. They vary in price, but you can find some great deals, especially off the beaten path

A Few Tips For Your Stay

• Book in Advance : especially during peak seasons, booking your accommodation early can save you from last-minute price hikes
• Location Matters : consider staying a bit outside popular tourist areas for better deals. Public transport in both Italy and Croatia is pretty reliable

In summary, whether you’re looking for luxury, comfort, or a budget-friendly option, Italy and Croatia offer a wide range of accommodations to fit your needs and wallet.

Croatia Or Italy For Natuitcal Tourism

Are you torn between Italy and Croatia for your next sea adventure? Both countries are renowned for their exceptional nautical tourism, but each offers its own unique experience. Let’s dive into what makes these two Adriatic jewels stand out, helping you decide your next maritime destination.

Italy’s Nautical Charm: A Blend Of Luxury And History

Sailing in Italy isn’t just a trip; it’s a plunge into a rich historical sea. The Italian coastline is dotted with ancient ports and modern marinas, offering a luxurious sailing experience.

Here, you can glide through the waters, stopping at historic towns and indulging in world-famous Italian cuisine. The Italian Riviera, Amalfi Coast, and the islands of Sicily and Sardinia aren’t just places on a map; they’re chapters in your Italian sea story.

Croatia’s Coastal Wonders Untouched And Captivating

Croatia, on the other hand, is a treasure trove of natural beauty. Its coast is lined with pristine beaches, many accessible only by boat.

The Dalmatian Coast , with its clear waters and idyllic islands, is perfect for those seeking a blend of tranquility and adventure. Croatia’s nautical scene is less about luxury and more about connecting with nature and discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches.

Sailing Options From Yachts To Catamarans

Whether you pick Italy or Croatia, your vessel choices are plenty. Luxurious yachts, speedy motorboats, and agile catamarans are available for charter in both countries.

In Italy, you might lean towards more stylish and opulent options, while in Croatia, practical and versatile boats are the norm, ideal for exploring lesser-known spots.

Navigation And Route

Navigating these waters is a delight for sailors of all levels. Both Italy and Croatia offer well-mapped routes, but the real fun lies in charting your own path. Italy’s extensive nautical history means you’ll be sailing routes taken by ancient mariners, while Croatia offers the thrill of discovering uncharted territories.

Discovering Hidden Treasures: Italy and Croatia’s Secluded Spots

Exploring Italy and Croatia by sea unveils hidden treasures perfect for those seeking serenity and unspoiled beauty. Here’s a look at some of the most captivating secluded spots in both countries.

Amalfi’s Tranquil Haven

Along the celebrated Amalfi Coast, there’s a hidden retreat accessible only by the sea. This secluded spot is a haven for peace-seekers. Here, you can anchor in transparent waters encircled by stunning landscapes, offering a serene escape from the well-trodden tourist paths. Ideal for those who wish to experience the Amalfi Coast’s more peaceful side, this secret retreat promises tranquility amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

Stiniva Beach: Vis Island’s Secret Cove

On the Croatian island of Vis, Stiniva Beach awaits as a hidden gem. Concealed behind a narrow passage, it opens up to a striking cove, offering a private, almost exclusive beach experience. This spot is a shining example of Croatia’s nautical allure, providing tranquility away from the bustling crowd. Stiniva Beach stands as a testament to Croatia’s unspoiled and lesser-known spots .

Cala Goloritzè: Sardinia’s Secluded Paradise

In Sardinia, Cala Goloritzè is accessible solely by boat or a challenging trek. This pristine beach, known for its turquoise waters and a striking natural limestone arch, is the epitome of seclusion. Its remote location makes it an ideal spot for those in search of solitude and natural beauty.

Paklinski Islands: Croatia’s Hidden Archipelago

Near Hvar, the Paklinski Islands are a group of small isles featuring hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. These islands are home to secluded beaches like Palmižana, where lush greenery meets the Adriatic’s azure waters in perfect harmony. The Paklinski Islands are perfect for explorers who wish to discover Croatia’s more intimate and untouched coastal areas.

All of these locations offer a unique experience – from the serene Italian coasts to the tranquil Croatian islands. They are ideal for sailors and adventurers looking to escape the usual and immerse themselves in the natural splendor of these two Mediterranean gems.

Comparing Italy and Croatia’s Nautical Experiences: Pros and Cons

When it comes to choosing a nautical destination, Italy and Croatia both offer fantastic experiences with distinct characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

Italy’s Nautical Scene

• Historical Legacy: Italy’s long maritime history is woven into its culture, offering a rich and immersive sailing experience.
• Iconic Destinations: sail to world-famous spots like the Amalfi Coast, where beauty and history meet the sea
• Diverse Fleet: Italy’s range of boats is impressive, from vintage sailboats to sleek, modern yachts
• Higher Costs: generally, sailing in Italy can be pricier than other Mediterranean options
• Crowded Waters: popular destinations can get quite busy, particularly during the peak tourist season

Croatia’s Nautical Scene

• Untouched Beauty: Croatia offers pristine, less crowded beaches, ideal for those seeking tranquility
• Authentic Coastal Charm: discover small, picturesque villages along the coast that offer a genuine local experience
• Affordable Charters: compared to Italy, Croatia provides more budget-friendly options for boat charters
• Limited Luxury Charters: high-end, luxury boat options might be less available than in Italy
• Rustic Seclusion: some of Croatia’s remote beaches lack the amenities found in more developed areas

In summary, Italy’s nautical offerings are steeped in history with a range of boat options but come at a higher cost and with potentially crowded locales. Croatia, while more budget-friendly and tranquil, may lack the luxury options and amenities found in more popular destinations. Your choice depends on what you value most in your maritime adventure.

Food In Croatia Vs. Italy –  A Gastronomic Journey 

When it comes to good food, Croatia and Italy both offer a tempting array of dishes that reflect their rich histories and diverse landscapes. Let’s embark on a culinary tour to compare the mouth-watering cuisines of these Mediterranean neighbors.

Italy: A Symphony of Flavors in Every Bite

Italian cuisine needs no introduction. It’s a delightful mix of regional specialties, each with its own unique twist.

Pasta and Pizza : from the al dente perfection of Roman pasta to the cheesy heaven of Neapolitan pizza, Italy is the ultimate carb paradise and birthplace of pizza. But it’s not just about these global favorites – each region boasts its own pasta specialty, be it the creamy risottos of the north or the spicy arrabbiata of the south.

Seafood and Meats : coastal regions like Sicily serve up some of the freshest seafood, while Tuscany and Umbria are all about hearty meats and game. Don’t miss the prosciutto from Parma or the bistecca alla fiorentina in Florence.

Wine and Cheese : Italy’s vineyards produce world-class wines, and the cheeses – oh, the cheeses! From the sharp Parmigiano-Reggiano to the soft buffalo mozzarella, they’re a cheese lover’s dream. And all that cheese pairs perfectly with a wine tasting.

Sweets : end your meal with a tiramisu, cannoli, or a scoop of gelato. Trust me, Italian desserts are in a league of their own.

Croatia: A Hidden Culinary Gem

Croatian cuisine is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered, characterized by a blend of Mediterranean and Slavic influences.

Seafood Galore : thanks to its long coastline, seafood is a star in Croatian cuisine. Grilled fish, octopus salad, and black risotto are must-tries. The oysters from Ston are a delicacy not to be missed.

Meat Dishes : inland regions excel in hearty meat dishes. Ćevapi (grilled sausages) and peka (meat and vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid) are traditional favorites.

Truffles and Olive Oil : the Istrian peninsula is famous for its truffles and top-quality olive oil. If you’re there, a truffle pasta dish is a must.

Wines and Spirits : Croatian wines, like the robust red Plavac Mali or the crisp white Malvazija, are gaining international acclaim. And for a truly local experience, try rakija, a potent fruit brandy.

Italy Vs. Croatia: A Feast for the Senses

In Italy, the food scene is like a well-rehearsed orchestra, with each region playing its part to perfection. In Croatia, it’s more like a delightful jam session where unexpected flavors harmonize to create something truly unique.

Whether you’re savoring a slice of pizza overlooking a bustling piazza in Rome or enjoying a fresh seafood feast on a tranquil Croatian beach, the culinary experiences in both countries are as memorable as their stunning landscapes. So, fork in hand, get ready to dive into the diverse, rich, and utterly delicious cuisines of Italy and Croatia. Buon appetito or dobar tek!

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Weather Wise Will It Be Italy Or Croatia 

Deciding when to visit Italy and Croatia is like choosing the perfect seasoning for your favorite dish. It’s all about timing and what you’re looking for in your vacation, weather-wise.

Let me give you the lowdown on the climate and the best times to visit these Mediterranean beauties.

Italy: From Sunny Beaches To Snowy Peaks

Italy’s weather can be as diverse as its landscapes.

Spring (April to June) : this is a golden time to visit. The weather is pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring cities without the swelter of summer. The countryside is in full bloom, and the tourist crowds haven’t peaked yet.

Summer (July to August) : expect it to be hot, especially in the south and in cities like Rome and Florence. It’s beach season, so coastal areas like the Amalfi Coast are buzzing with life. But remember, it’s also peak tourist season so things can get crowded.

Autumn (September to October) : my personal favorite. The heat eases off, the summer crowds disperse, and the countryside turns into a palette of warm colors. Plus, it’s grape harvest season in the wine regions – a real treat!

Winter (November to March) : in the north, you’ll find snowy mountains perfect for skiing. Elsewhere, it’s cooler and quieter, ideal for city exploring without the crowds. Christmas in Italy is one magical time, but do expect some places, especially along the coast, to be closed for the season.

Croatia: Sun-Kissed Shores And Crisp Winters

Croatia’s climate is generally Mediterranean along the coast and continental inland.

Spring (April to June) : Spring in Croatia is stunning. The Adriatic coast begins to warm up, and the national parks are beautifully lush. It’s a sweet spot before the summer rush.

Summer (July to August) : Croatian summers are all about crystal-clear waters and sun-soaked islands. But just like in Italy, it’s the busiest and hottest time, especially on the coast. If you love the buzz and don’t mind the heat, it’s party time.

Autumn (September to October) : the water is still warm enough for swimming, and the summer crowds have thinned out. The weather is mild – great for exploring cities and outdoor activities.

Winter (November to March) : it’s quieter and cooler, with some rain. While the coastal areas go into hibernation mode, Zagreb lights up with Christmas markets . It’s not ideal for beach-goers, but city explorers and winter festival lovers will have a ball.

In both countries, the shoulder seasons – spring and autumn – are my top picks for the best weather without the extreme crowds.

But hey, if you’re a sun worshipper or a snow bunny, summer and winter have their own charms.

Just pick what suits your travel style best, and you’re all set for an exceptional Mediterranean experience.

Croatia And Italy: Which Is Safe

Exploring new places is thrilling, but keeping safety and health in mind is crucial, especially when you’re in unfamiliar territory.

Here’s a quick travel planning guide on staying safe and healthy in Italy and Croatia so you can enjoy your trip worry-free.

Safety in Italy

General Safety : Italy is generally safe for travelers. However, like in any popular tourist destination, watch out for pickpockets , especially in crowded areas like Rome’s Trevi Fountain or Milan’s Duomo. Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.

Healthcare : Italy’s healthcare system is top-notch. If you need medical attention, public hospitals and private clinics are available. Remember, it’s always wise to have travel insurance that covers healthcare.

Emergency Contacts : in case of emergency, dial 112. This is the general emergency number in Italy, connecting you to police, fire, and medical services.

Safety in Croatia

General Safety : Croatia is known for being relatively safe for tourists . The usual advice applies: be cautious of your belongings and stay vigilant in busy tourist spots and nightlife areas.

Healthcare : Croatia has a good standard of healthcare. Pharmacies are widely available, and hospitals provide adequate care. However, some remote islands and rural areas might have limited facilities.

Emergency Contacts : the emergency number in Croatia is also 112. It’s a good idea to keep this number handy on your phone.

Which Country Is Better Wrap-Up

Choosing between Italy and Croatia for a seaside holiday? Both boast beautiful beaches, but each offers distinct experiences for travelers.

Italy’s rich history is evident along its coast, from the Roman Empire relics to the luxurious Amalfi Coast. For adventure seekers, Italy’s diverse attractions, including bustling coastal towns and serene beaches, provide an ideal setting for both road trips and day trips.

Croatia, on the other hand, offers a serene escape with its unspoiled landscapes along the Adriatic Sea. It’s a haven for those looking to unwind in crystal-clear waters, with Dubrovnik’s historic charm adding to the allure.

Both countries are worth visiting for their unique blend of natural beauty, history, and adventure opportunities. Your choice depends on whether you prefer Italy’s timeless allure and a wide array of attractions or Croatia’s tranquil coasts and natural splendor.

untouched natural beauty that calls to you, a trip here means more than just sailing – it’s about creating memories that stick with you long after you’ve left the sea behind.

So, ready your sails and get set for an unforgettable Mediterranean journey in either Italy or Croatia.

Transport From Croatia To Italy 

Let’s face it, you have now decided you can’t choose, right? Well, in that case, here is how you can travel between these two Adriatic titans.

Traveling between Croatia and Italy is a breeze; whether you’re a fan of the skies or seas, here’s what you need to know:

You’ve got options! Major Croatian cities like Zagreb , Split, and Dubrovnik offer direct flights to Italian hotspots such as Rome, Milan, and Venice. Choosing a direct flight can make your trip smoother and quicker.

Ferry Connections

If you’re up for a scenic journey, ferries are the way to go. They’re not just a great way to see the Adriatic but also let you bring your car along. This means you can hit the road as soon as you dock, exploring at your own pace.

The main Croatian ports for ferry travel to Italy are Pula, Rijeka, and Zadar. From here, hop on a fast Catamaran that cruises at about 40mph, and you’ll be stepping onto Italian shores in 3 to 4 hours. Plus, it’s wallet-friendly. For instance, a round trip from Pula to Venice can cost around 50 Euros.

Ideal Ports

• Pula: This Croatian gem is a great starting point. It’s soaked in medieval history and offers the quickest ferry route to Italy
• Ancona: Over in Italy, Ancona is your gateway. It’s well-connected and makes getting around the Italian regions a piece of cake

Rail Connection

Are you looking for a bit of adventure on rails and roads? While there’s no direct train from Croatia to Italy, you can still make the journey with a mix of train and bus.

Start by taking a train to a Slovenian border city, then switch to a bus. Once you reach Trieste in Italy, you can hop on a train again to continue your Italian escapade. It’s a longer route, sure, but it’s a unique way to see more of the landscape and experience local life. Plus, it’s perfect if you’re in no rush and up for a bit of exploration.

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• Travel Planning Guide

A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Croatia vs. Italy for Museums & Attractions, Food, Nightlife, and Resorts

• Pros & Cons
• Museums & Attractions
• Culture & History
• Small Towns
• Scuba Diving & Snorkeling
• Christmas Markets
• National Parks
• Adventure & Outdoor Activities
• Watersports
• Outdoor Activities
• Backpackers
• Transportation
• Which is Cheaper, Croatia or Italy?
• What are the cheapest places in Croatia or Italy?
• How can you save money in Croatia or Italy?
• When to Visit Croatia or Italy?
• Weather: Croatia vs. Italy

Should you visit Croatia or Italy?

Which is cheaper to visit which is more expensive for vacation.

Should I visit Croatia or Italy? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which country has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

We'll start with a quick overview, and below we will go into all of the details.

Both Italy and Croatia have beautiful coastlines, fascinating cultures, and a rich history. If you're looking for an affordable place to visit, then Croatia is generally the cheaper option where your money can go a bit farther.

Italy is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. It's prices are comparable to other countries in Western Europe and you can expect to spend a decent amount during your time there. If you're looking for a slightly less popular destination that feels a bit more off the beaten path (at least in some places), then Croatia is just that. Croatia's beautiful old towns, delicious seafood, and vibrant nightlife make it a destination in Europe that continues to grow in popularity.

Croatia is a gorgeous, mountainous, and historic country. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, museums, wildlife, and adventure travel.

This coastal and island nation has become very popular with visitors because it offers such a wide array of attractions. The gorgeous beaches with clear, blue waters are just the start, as Croatia also offers historic cities and towns surrounded by walls with old cathedrals and amazing seafood restaurants. Ancient Roman ruins are mixed in with medieval fortresses, along with outdoor activities such as hiking trails, lakes, boating, snorkeling, and more. The weather is usually warm, and the people are also very friendly. If you visit yourself, you'll see why Croatia has become so popular in recent decades.

Italy is a captivating, scenic, and historical country. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the mountains, shopping, museums, and adventure travel.

Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. This is no surprise considering it offers world-famous sights and attractions, delicious food, beautiful scenery, abundant history, and gorgeous architecture.

Croatia and Italy: Pros and Cons

• Great culture, history, and arts
• Great resorts
• Good scuba and snorkeling destination
• Popular beach
• Good for hiking
• Beautiful national parks
• Great road trips
• Family-friendly
• Good for couples and romance
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Impressive beauty
• Less museums and historical sights
• Not as many big cities
• Less popular for shopping
• Less popular at Christmas
• Less popular for Christmas markets
• Less popular for skiing
• Crowded with tourists
• Popular museums and historical sights
• Good for shopping
• Popular at Christmas
• Known for Christmas markets
• Popular for skiing
• Not too many tourists
• Not as many resort options

How is Croatia different from Italy?

Which is better for a holiday.

Below we will examine the differences and similarities between Croatia and Italy. With this information, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Croatia or Italy?

Both Croatia and Italy offer a variety of museums and places of interest, but Italy generally has more to choose from.

The museums and tourist attractions in Italy are world-renowned. The major cities offer a unique combination of art, history, and cultural museums that are unmatched anywhere else in the world. From the famous art museums in Florence and Venice to the historical center of Rome, it's hard to find another country that offers as many museums as Italy.

Rome : The historical sights around the city are among the most impressive in the world. Almost anywhere you look you'll find a notable landmark but some of the most famous include the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Vatican, and the Roman Forum.

Florence : Because of it's important role in the Renaissance, the city has many world-renowned museums that you can visit. Famous sights and landmarks include the Uffizi Gallery, the Duomo, and the Academy Gallery.

Venice : The many historic and famous landmarks in town include St. Mark's Basilica, St. Mark's Square, Doge's Palace, and the Rialto Bridge.

Pompeii : Pompeii is a city frozen in time and it is truly a one-of-a-kind destination. The streets remain as they once stood, lined with shops and homes. Highlights of a visit include the Forum, the Antiquarium, the Temple of Isis, and the Teatro Grande.

See also Florence Activity Guide , The Ultimate Rome Travel Guide , and Cheap Tours and Activities in Rome, Italy .

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Croatia. A variety of museums can be explored in the major cities, such as in Zagreb where you'll find the Archeology Museum, the Zoo, and several large art museums. The technical museum is quite interesting itself, as is the museum of Torture. In Zadar, you'll find a glass museum focused on ancient glass works. Also, check out the Museum of Illusions while in town, too. In Dubrovnik, you can visit the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence, which is dedicated to the war in the 1990's. It sits at the top of Mount Srd and reached by cable car. The views from the top are worth the trip itself. Several other historic museums are found around Dubrovnik, focusing on the old fortifications of the city and its walls. And throughout the countryside, many of the historic castles and estates have been turned into museums. Trakošćan Castle is just one of many beautiful sites to visit for a glimpse into Croatian history.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Culture, Arts, and History?

Generally, Italy offers a larger array of history, arts, and cutlure for travelers than Croatia.

With a long list of famous historical and cultural attractions, Italy brings in many visitors. It's hard to find another country as proud of its heritage, culture, and history. In Italy, all of these are mixed together as the historical architecture and cuisine are constant reminders of the rich history and artistic contributions throughout the centuries. From the ancient Roman civilization up to the Renaissance to modern times, it's all on display here in the cities and the countryside.

See also How to Buy Tickets to the Colosseum , Rome Activity Guide , and The Ultimate Florence Travel Guide .

Croatia has many famous historic and cultural sights and attractions worth visiting, and is one of the main reasons why poeple come here. The history of this country is on display everywhere, as many of the cities and towns have historical architecture dating back to medieval times. The old town of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage site itself, as the beautiful walled city sits on the coast like a castle, protecting the old buildings, cathedrals, and harbor inside. Plenty of other historic sites are on display from Roman ruins to cultural Renaissance-era artwork and churches. The restored Pula Arena is a Roman amphitheater from the 1st century, and you can admire it during a concert, too. The Walls of Ston date back to the 14th century and are referred to as the Great Wall of Croatia because of their extensive length and beauty. The Roman Forum in Zadar has ruins and architecture that date back to the 1st century also, among other buildings from various historic periods. The Diocletian's Palace in Split, from the 4th century, provides a historical maze of old streets lined with temples, shops, and more. In general, the close proximity of Croatia to ancient Greece, ancient Rome, as well as plenty of medieval history means that visitors who are interested in history will have plenty to see and do during their visit. Trogir, Korcula, Zadar, Hvar, and many other towns showcase even more of the beautiful history and culture of Croatia, too.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Big City Activities?

Italy is considered to have more larger cities than Croatia.

With plenty of activities and things to do in the big cities, Italy draws plenty of visitors. With numerous world-famous cities, this country offers a special city vibe many times over. From the bustling streets of Rome and Milan to the historic centers of Florence, Venice, and Naples, visitors will find no shortage of sights, attractions, nightlife, restaurants, and museums to explore in the big cities of Italy.

See also Milan: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , Naples: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , and The Ultimate Venice Travel Guide .

With a variety of activities, Croatia has some large cities to explore. While the largest cities are full of beautiful historical architecture and terrific cultural experiences, they are also not so large. Near the cities on the coast, you'll find beaches, historic ruins, easy access to rural areas, and gorgeous clear waters. Also, the cities in the interior are close to national parks, hiking trails, wineries, and more historic sites. These cities all lack large skyscrapers and the busy hustle of larger European cities, though, as the overall population of the country is around 4 million people.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Small Towns and Villages?

Croatia and Italy are somewhat similar when it comes to visiting the great smaller towns and villages.

Because Croatia offers so many small towns with a variety of charming activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. The coastline and many islands are dotted with beautiful small towns, many of which have historical architecture, nearby Roman ruins, and waterfront and beaches with clear, blue water that's perfect for swimming or snorkeling. These small towns also have cafes, restaurants, guest houses, shops, and historic churches, too. Some of the most scenic small towns in Croatia include Skradin, Purisca, Primosten, Rovinj, Trogir, and Hvar. Other medium-sized towns also dot the coastline and have a small-town feel. Dubrovnik, for example, has a beautiful, historic walled city center with a small town feel, even though the city itself spreads much further along the coast and into the hills above. No matter where you visit, you'll love exploring these amazing small towns, as they are one of the highlights of a trip to Croatia.

Since Italy offers plenty of small towns and villages with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. If quintessential small towns are what you seek, then you will find them here. Along the coastline as well as inland, Italy is home to numerous charming small towns with colorful buildings and gorgeous landscapes. Many of these towns offer great views of the surrounding countryside or coastlines, a maze-like selection of narrow alleyways, and quaint cafes to while away the afternoons.

See also Amalfi Coast's Seaside Towns , The Best Day Trips from Venice , and Things to Do in Cinque Terre .

Is the Food Better in Croatia or Italy? Which Country Has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will appreciated the dining options available in Italy a bit more than Croatia.

For foodies, Italy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. The food here is world-famous, as you probably already know. In fact, the food is one of the main attractions. Pasta, pizza, seafood, and gelato are only just the beginning. Many regions of Italy have their own culinary specialties, too. So, be prepared to eat your way through this gourmet country.

Rome : Homemade pasta, fresh sauces, and fine wine all make the food scene among the best. Also make sure you try the gelato.

Milan : The city has a mix of traditional dishes combined with modernized, trendy restaurants. You can try a new dish by a groundbreaking chef, or sample a long running favorite like risotto alla Milanese.

Naples : As the birthplace of pizza, the city has a well known food reputation. Many local dishes, including an authentic Napoli pizza, use simple flavors such as olive oil, garlic, and tomatoes. The dishes are lighter than their northern counterparts and tomatoes are a very popular ingredient. In addition to the pizza, you should try Lasagna Al Forno Napoletana and Spaghetti Alla Vognole. Also check out a pizza making class.

Florence : Once you've worked up an appetite exploring museums and churches, you'll find many amazing local restaurants around town. Local dishes incorporate a lot of hearty vegetables and meats. Famous dishes include a Florentine steak dish, rabbit, and a bean bed and cabbage soup.

Bologna : Foodies will appreciate the city's well earned culinary reputation. Some people even consider Bologna to be a food capital in Italy. There are cooking classes and food tours around town, as well as many great restaurants that serve up local dishes. Visitors should try Tagliatelle with Ragu (now famously known around the world as Bolognaise), Tortellini in broth, and Mortadella (salami).

See also Make Your Own Pizza in Naples, Italy .

Dining out in Croatia is an experience not to be missed. Seafood is the obvious choice, as most of this country lies along the Adriatic Sea. The lengthy coastline of the mainland and the many islands is dotted with historic fishing villages and towns that pull in fresh fish and other seafood delights every day. You can have quick and affordable dishes at small street side cafes, quick-service restaurants, taverns, and also street vendors. Or, you can dine in style at delicious fine-dining restaurants in the city centers. Some of the best Croatian dishes to try include cuttlefish (squid), mussels and oysters in various recipes, and larger white fish species. Local wines are also very popular, as the countryside is dotted with vineyards. The same is true for olive oil, so make sure you try the delicious local varieties. Truffles are also popular, as the countryside offers a mix of species that locals enjoy. And don't miss the famous meat dishes. Ham and ox should be tried as Peka, Istrian dried ham, or Boškarin, which is ox served in different forms such as with pasta, thin sliced, or as a steak.

Dubrovnik : Restaurants are usually locally-sourced with fresh produce and seafood. Traditional local dishes include black risotto (made with squid ink), pašticada (a beef dish), and various pasta dishes.

Trogir : For such a small place there's a surprising number of amazing restaurants. You won't find touristy restaurants here. Instead, locals and tourists intermingle, enjoying the same amazing dishes. There's also a number of fine dining restaurants that are affordable and high quality.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Nightlife?

For nightlife, head to Italy instead of Croatia.

Italy is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The major cities of Rome, Milan, Florence, and Naples offer plenty of nightlife for every type of person. From bars and clubs to restaurants and theatre, the larger and even the smaller cities have plenty of options.

Rome : You'll find a huge concentration of bars and clubs in the Testaccio area. There are late night clubs with salsa dancing, merengue, and live DJ's spinning every type of music.

Milan : The city has a huge number of students and young professionals, which make it a fun place with an active nightlife. There are cocktail bars, trendy clubs, and relaxed pubs that you can chose from.

See also Party Hostels in Florence , and Party Hostels in Rome .

Croatia offers plenty to do in the evening. This country has become a party destination, attracting plenty of younger travelers. The nightlife and party scene here is not just focused on the typical bars and nightclubs of the major cities, but also on epic beach parties, huge music festivals, and huge dance clubs. On Pag Island, north of Zadar, you can visit during one of the popular festivals such as Electro Beach, Hideout, and Croatia Rocks which are held at Zrce beach. The nearby Noa Beach Club brings in crowds whenever there's not a festival happening, too. Hvar, Zagreb, and Dubrovnik have plenty of bars, clubs, and events that bring in crowds, too. Some of the best are Boogaloo in Zagreb, Banje Beach Club in Dubrovnik, and Carpe Diem on Stipanska island outside of Hvar. Many of these and other beach clubs can be found all over the coastline, and they swell with visitors at spring break and summer vacation travel periods. Another fun option for many visitors is to head out on a party boat. These can be booked in almost any coastal city, and they take groups around nearby islands for swimming, snorkeling, and partying on the water. If you're looking for something a little more relaxed than a huge dance party, Croatia also offers a variety of theaters, fine-dining, cultural shows, casual pubs, and other relaxing nightlife options.

Split : It has some of the best nightlife on mainland Croatia. Backpackers and students flock to this city for its parties and nightclubs. There's a great live music scene as well as DJs who keep the party going well into the early morning.

Hvar : The island has a reputation as a party island, and it's well earned. Most of the activity is found in Hvar Town, particularly between the months of June and September. Young people flock to the island for the all night parties and wild beach bars and clubs.

See also Party Hostels in Hvar Island and Split, Croatia .

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Resorts?

If you're looking for a better selection of resorts, you'll probably want to head to Croatia .

Croatia is a world class resort vacation destination. The long coastline is full of beaches, many of which have fantastic luxurious resorts. While some of the resorts are adults-only, most are family friendly with beaches, fun activities, restaurants, and fabulous swimming pools. Many of these larger resorts are found outside of the main city centers, as they have larger properties. A few of the best resort areas are found near Dubrovnik, Hvar, Brac, the islands around Zadar, and on the Dalmatian coastline region. Many are quite luxurious with price tags to match, but have a terrific set of amenities to show for it.

Italy has a few great resort options. The coastal and beach areas host some nice resorts, especially in the south where the water is clear and blue. Otherwise, almost all of Italy is home to luxurious hotels featuring nice amenities.

Positano : The town has a number of luxury resorts including Le Sirenuse, Il San Pietro di Positano, and Hotel Le Agavi.

Portofino : Known for it's exclusive luxury, there are a number of high end resorts in the area. Popular options include Splendido, Sublimis Boutique Hotel, and Grand Hotel Miramare.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Most visitors agree that scuba diving and snorkeling are better in Croatia than Italy.

Croatia is an extremely popular place to visit for scuba diving and snorkeling. The beautiful clear waters around the thousands of islands of this coastal nation offer a myriad of diving opportunities. You can see plenty of marine life on local reefs, dive with dolphins, and find larger fish too. But one of the best aspects of diving in Croatia is the large number of wrecks and "underwater museums" that are found around the islands. From old ship wrecks to more modern WWI and WWII wrecks and planes to some ancient underwater ruins from historic periods, there's plenty to see in addition to marine life. Some of the best spots are around the island of Brac where you'll find dolphins and calm waters. Also, don't miss the underwater museum at Mali Lošinj or the one on the island of Vis. The latter offers sunken B-17 and B-24 bombers from WWII along with various sea caves which reflect the light in dazzling ways. Almost every town along the coast offers dive shops which can take you out to the nearby reefs, islands, and inlets for a terrific experience.

It's worth going snorkeling or scuba diving in Italy. In the southern regions of Italy, and in Sicily and Sardinia, scuba diving and snorkeling are popular because of the clear waters, gorgeous scenery, and easy accessibility. It's also popular to scuba dive in the central and northern areas around the Amalfi coast and Sorrento, as well as the coastline around Portofino (in Liguria) and some spots on the eastern Adriatic coastline.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Beaches?

For a relaxing beach holiday, both Croatia and Italy are great choices.

Croatia is considered a top beach destination. With over 1,200 islands and a huge length of beautiful coastline, it's no surprise that this country has plenty of beaches. The beaches in Croatia are stunning and beautiful. While they can be a bit rocky and pebbly compared to other European countries' beaches, they more than make up for it with clear, blue water that is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and admiring the scenery. Many beach areas and harbors have colorful fishing boats that seem to float in the air because the water is so clean and clear. And in most of the Croatian coast, the mountains and rocky shoreline adds to the dramatic beauty. If you're visiting the beaches here, you'll find activities such as boat rides, kite surfing, wind surfing, kayaking, scuba diving, fishing, and more. Some of the best and most scenic beaches are found in Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik, around Zadar, Brac, and Novalja.

Italy is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many of the beaches along the coastline offer fantastic scenery and stunning beauty, and consist of coves with dramatic rock formations with clear blue waters. While not as sandy as in other countries, they still attract plenty of visitors. The southern regions, and Sicily, offer flatter beaches with more sand if you're looking for better swimming.

See also The Ultimate Amalfi Coast Travel Guide .

Is the Shopping Better in Croatia or Italy?

Italy often provides a better shopping experience than Croatia.

Known for shopping, Italy draws large crowds to its stores. From Milan to Florence to Rome, this country offers some terrific fashion and shopping experiences. The big cities and the smaller towns can provide unique opportunities to find new clothes, fun souvenirs, and interesting crafts.

Rome : For the biggest brand names, head to Via del Corso, which is near the Spanish Steps. Popular items to buy include Italian ceramics, shoes, leather goods, and jewelry.

Milan : Famous as the fashion capital of Italy, shopping is the thing to do here. There are many streets that are lined with the biggest designers in fashion. Make sure you check out Via Monte Napoleone, Via Della Spiga, and Corso Buenos Aires.

Venice : There are many unique items that people purchase in town. Some of the most popular include Murano glass, Burano lace, Venetian masks, and local fabrics.

Como : The shopping is comparable to major cities, with everything from high end boutiques to outlets and local markets. There are clothing shops, jewelry stores, and places to pick up local souvenirs. Shopping is a favorite activity for many visitors to Lake Como.

Croatia has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. The major cities offer plenty of shopping areas within along their scenic and historic streets. Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Zagreb, and others have various streets where visitors and locals alike can find boutique clothing shops, art galleries, local craft stores, cafes and restaurants, and food markets. In addition to the shops in the city center, most cities also have larger shopping malls such as SubCity Dubrovnik and Arena Centar in Zagreb.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Christmas?

The Christmas season is more busy in Italy than Croatia.

People travel from all around to experience the Christmas season in Italy. Rome is a very popular destination at Christmas, especially since it is home to the Vatican. The city is fantastically decorated for the season. But it's not the only one, as other larger cities and smaller towns also put on large holiday displays with huge Christmas trees, ice skating rinks, and theatre shows. Many of the towns in the northern regions of Italy also put on markets and decorate large areas of their public squares.

Many enjoy the Christmas activities while in Croatia. Many of the cities and quaint towns throughout the country decorate with lights, trees, and holiday decor that turns these towns into magical Christmas wonderlands. The combination of the historic architecture with the lights is dazzling. Also, many towns set up festive Christmas markets that are filled with delicious foods as well as arts and crafts for sale. Zagreb and Zadar host large ice skating rinks, and many cities also put on festivals with concerts, theater shows, and small amusement parks with rides for kids. The town of Čazma, near Zagreb, hosts SalajLand. Here you'll find millions of Christmas lights along paths with holiday themed decorations and light shows that creates a terrific magical atmosphere for the whole family.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Christmas Markets?

Italy provides a more festive Christmas market atmosphere than Croatia.

Italy is a popular destination to visit Christmas markets. Many of the smaller towns in northern Italy host Christmas markets in their central areas. A few of the best include Bolzano, Trento, Merano, Bressanone, and Arezzo. Florence also puts on a large market during the holidays. And in Milan, families and kids will love the Village of Wonders which offers plenty of activities, as well as a market in the heart of the city.

During the holidays, visitors often browse through the Christmas markets in Croatia. A few of the best Christmas markets in Croatia can be found in Dubrovnik, Rovinj, Osijek, Zagreb, and Split. Many of these markets are accompanied by festivities such as light shows, ice skating, and concerts, too. Have some mulled wine and try the local holiday-themed desserts, too - they're delicious!

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Skiing?

Even though Italy and Croatia provide opportunities for snow skiing, most people consider Italy to be more popular.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Italy. In the northern mountainous areas of Italy visitors will find the Alps and the Dolomites. Here, a number of world-class ski resorts draw visitors from all over Europe and the rest of the world.

While in the area, visitors like to go to Croatia for snow skiing. The northern mountain regions of the country have a surprising number of ski resort areas. The climate here in the winter can be quite cold and snowy, and as such, the local population enjoys hitting the slopes. Just minutes from Zagreb is Sljeme, and other ski resort areas can be found at Platak and Čelimbaša, among others. Cross country skiing is also popular in the norther region of Croatia.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Croatia and Italy both have great trails.

Croatia is a good destination for hiking. The rugged terrain of the coastline and the interior means that hikers will find a variety of trails here. National parks such as Plitvice and Krka offer some gorgeous trails around lakes, waterfalls, and through the forest. Other high mountain trails can be found in more national parks, too. If you're looking for a challenge, check out the Velebit Hiking Trail which is a multi-day journey through epic mountains where you stay in huts. Or, adventourous hikers can head up Vosac Peak. If you're near Dubrovnik and are looking for some amazing views, head up Mount Srd. Also, if you're up for the full Croatian hiking experience, the Via Dinarica is a set of trails that runs the entire coastline from the northern border with Slovenia to the southern border with Albania. Offering epic views and some challenging hills, the route spans over 1,200km. But don't worry, you can just do a small section of it if you like.

Many people include a hike when visiting Italy . The northern regions around the Dolomites and the Alps offer plenty of hiking trails, as do some of the central inland areas where the terrain is higher and rugged. Plenty of coastal trails can be found with stunning views of the Mediterranean, too. Check out the trails around the Amalfi Coast and Cinque Terre, for example. Also, one of the most famous hikes is the historic walk along the Appian Way.

Cinque Terre : The five towns are part of Cinque Terre National Park and there are 120 kilometers of hiking trails in the park. Most people hike along the trails that follow the coastline and connect the towns. There are fees for the most popular stretch of trails which connect Monterosso to Vernazza and then go from Vernazza to Corniglia. All other hiking is free in the area.

See also A Hiking Guide to Cinque Terre , and Tours and Hiking Trips to Mt. Vesuvius and Pompeii .

Is Croatia or Italy Better for its National Parks?

If you're interested in visiting great national parks, Croatia and Italy both offer plenty of spots.

Visiting the national parks is a popular activity when in Croatia . The 8 national parks found here offer a wide array of landscapes from coastal regions to mountains to rivers and lakes. The most famous national park in Croatia is perhaps Plitvice Lakes, where visitors can walk through gorgeous landscapes made of up clear lakes, waterfalls, and forests that all feel magical. Krka River also has similar beautiful landscapes with waterfalls and rocky pools full of green and blue clear water, lined with small villages, hiking paths, and rolling hills. You can also see a 14th-century medieval fortress and a monastery, too. Mljet national park, located on an island, offers gorgeous coastlines, interior lakes, and forested hills waiting to be explored. Risnjak national park offers visitors a more typical mountain vibe with beautiful valleys, hiking trails, and wildlife such as wolves, deer, and lynx, among others. Fishing is popular here on the lakes and rivers, especially fly fishing. And if sailing and snorkeling is on your bucket list, make sure to visit the many islands of Kornati Islands National Park, which are unique and mostly untouched. The abundant marine and coastal life will leave you breathless.

Many visitors go to Italy to see the national parks. While not necessarily famous for its national parks, here you'll still find plenty of absolutely gorgeous regions to explore. From the Dolomites in the north to the beautiful stretches of coastline, Italy has plenty of park areas to explore. Don't miss Cinque Terre with its colorful villages and vineyards, or Gargano in the south with its clear waters and white cliffs.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Adventure Travel?

Croatia generally offers more adventure travel options for travelers than Italy.

Croatia is a very popular place for adventure travel because of its abundant wildlife. Along the coast, you'll be able to participate in amazing activities such as sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. And in the mountains, you'll find hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, horseback riding, paragliding, bungee jumping, whitewater rafting, snow skiing, caving, ropes courses, and rock climbing. Some of the best areas for all of these activities include the national parks, as well as just outside of some of the major cities such as Zagreb and Zadar. And all along the coastline, you'll find a huge number of amazing watersports activities.

Italy is a pretty good destination for adventure travel with a good array of experiences. If thrills are what you're after, you can find a number of adventure sports here. From skiing in the north to scuba diving in the south, you can find it here. Visitors can also find plenty of hiking and paragliding in the mountains, as well as canyoning in many of the central regions of Italy.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Visiting the Mountains?

Overall, Italy is considered to offer more mountain activities and attractions to visitors.

The mountainous areas of Italy are worth exploring. While not known for mountains as much as some of its neighbors, this country has its fair share in the northern regions where you'll find the Alps and Dolomites. Plenty of mountain villages can be found here, along with winter skiing, summer hiking, scenic lakes, and more.

Croatia does have some mountain areas to explore. While it's not as famous for its mountains as much as its beaches, the northern half of the country is actually quite rugged, natural, and mountainous. This region offers plenty of hiking, camping, protected wildlife areas, rivers, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and other fun and fantastic mountain activities. The capital, Zagreb, is located in the heart of the northern mountain region, and puts you within easy reach of snow skiing, mountain biking, and hiking trails. Also, plenty of mountain ranges and related activities can be found near the coastline, as the rugged terrain extends all the way to the shores of the Adriatic sea. So, if you're visiting Dubrovnik, Hvar, Split, or any of the other seaside cities, hiking, biking, camping, and other activities are only an hour away at the most. For some of the best mountain views, check out Ucka Nature Park, Sjeverni Velebit National Park, Paklenica National Park, and Risnjak National Park, among others.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Watersports?

Overall, Croatia is considered to offer more watersports activities and attractions to visitors.

The huge number of watersports activities in Croatia is one of the main reasons people come to visit. With over 1,200 islands, a huge array of watersports and aquatic activities are offered along the vast coastline of Croatia. You'll find more than just beaches and swimming, as snorkeling, diving, sailing, kite surfing, wind surfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding are all very popular. Some of the best places to explore the coastline are on the islands and coastline near small towns such as Korcula, Hvar, Brac, Trogir, Sibenik, Rovinj, or Novalja. These towns make it easy to head out into the water on boats or from the shore. In many places, it's possible to hop right in for snorkeling, stand up paddle, kayaking, or other seaside activities. You'll also find plenty of boats for hire to take you on a day tour to nearby islands, or charter a sailboat for a week to have a truly amazing adventure through the islands.

Italy is an extremely popular destination for those interested in watersports. As a coastal nation, it's no surprise that visitors can get out on the water here. From boating to surfing to fishing, it's quite easy to find plenty of activities. Scuba diving and snorkeling are especially popular in the southern regions of Italy where the water is clear and warm.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Outdoor Activities?

Overall, Croatia is considered to offer more outdoor activities and attractions to visitors.

Croatia is a popular place to visit because of its outdoor activities. Popular outdoor activities here include horseback riding, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting, and watersports such as snorkeling, diving, and boating. The landscape of Croatia is diverse, and offers a bit of everything. From the mountains to the coastline, it's possible to travel around to experience watersports, coastal scenery at the beach, and mountain activities within just a few days of each other. Some of the best areas to see the outdoors are at Plitvice Lakes national parks, Krka River, Korcula island, around Hvar, and the Vis archipelago, among others.

Italy is a great destination for participating in outdoor activities. Hiking, snow skiing, boating, kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, and more are all popular activities here. One of the main reasons is that the natural beauty is everywhere, and that most of the country's outdoor areas are so accessible to the larger cities.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for a Road Trip?

Croatia is usually considered to be a better destination to explore on a road trip than Italy.

Taking a road trip through Croatia is very good way to see the countryside and smaller destinations. The long coastline, multitudes of quaint and beautiful small towns, and rugged mountains make this country a perfect place for a road trip. The roads are in great condition, and you'll find scenic viewpoints, castles, coastal fishing towns, secret beaches, and mountain views all along the way. Start in the north in Zagreb or in the sound in Dubrovnik and work your way up or down the coast and mountain ranges for plenty of epic adventures along the way.

See also The Croatian Coast: A Split to Dubrovnik Road Trip .

With many possiblities for a road trip, Italy is a great place to take on the open road. If you're looking to drive through the countryside from city to city, or even just through the small towns, you'll find some great roads in Italy. Take a drive down the coast from Rome to see a diverse set of coastlines, towns, and historical sights. Or, drive through the mountains in the north interspersed with gorgeous lakes. And don't forget about Tuscany where you can explore the small towns among the vineyards and wineries.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Families?

There's generally more to do with your family in Italy than Croatia.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Italy is a very family-friendly destination. With plenty of diverse activities for children and adults, here you'll find large cities with famous attractions, beautiful beaches on stunning coastlines, small towns with great food. Plenty of amusement parks, outdoor activities, and water sports are also available.

Lake Garda : The nearby amusement parks, including Gardaland, make this a popular destination for families. The area also has many places to swim, trails to explore, and castles to experience. Kids and adults alike will love this amazing kid-friendly area.

See also Cinque Terre: The Ultimate Travel Planning Guide , and Hostels in Palermo, Sicily for Couples, Women, Families & Solo Travellers .

Croatia is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The combination of beaches, beautiful small towns, historical sites, and natural scenery makes for a terrific combination that kids and adults will love. You'll find multiple destinations that offer both beaches and history, so after a terrific morning in the sand and water, you can explore the beauty of the ancient city walls, old cathedrals, and historic ruins. Dubrovnik is one such place with terrific activities for the whole family. Not only are there some nearby beaches and the amazing historic city center, but you'll also find some nearby hiking trails and a gondola to the top of the mountain with stunning views over the nearby landscape. Hvar, Split, Zagreb, Korcula, and Zadar also have similar attractions where historic towns are surrounded by beautiful hills, stunning beach areas, and historic sites. And if you seek nature, Plitvice Lakes national park combines gorgeous views with fun hiking trails that kids will love exploring.

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Couples?

Couples will find a longer list of romantic activities in Italy than Croatia.

Italy makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. Known for its romantic destinations, couples will have a hard time simply deciding which destination to choose first. From world-famous cities full of charm, romance, and cuisine to gorgeous beaches to small colorful towns, Italy has everything a couple would want for a honeymoon or a romantic getaway.

Florence : Art and history lovers will enjoy a visit to this truly beautiful city. Couples who enjoy museums, historic buildings, and world-renowned art, will find plenty to do in this city.

Venice : With its many truly unique romantic experiences, this city makes for a truly memorable honeymoon or romantic getaway. Ride a gondola, get lost in the city, and enjoy pasta and music around town to make the experience unlike any other.

Como : Its beautiful walks, charming towns, and surrounding natural setting make this a great honeymoon and couple's getaway destination. Dine on Italian cuisine as you sip wine and look out on the pristine waters of Lake Como.

Siena : With its impressive beauty and long running history, this is a truly romantic city. The atmosphere is relaxed and there are plazas and neighborhoods that are great for exploring. There are also many great restaurants, superb wine, and world class sights that are not to be missed.

Sorrento : This beautiful romantic destination is one of the world's top honeymoon areas. It's a small city that offers access to the many nearby destinations, so it makes a good base or gateway city for visiting places like Capri and the Blue Grotto as well as the Amalfi Coast. You can enjoy romantic hikes full of stunning views, explore by kayak, dine at romantic restaurants, or experience a one-of-a-kind farm tour. If you base yourself in Sorrento, you'll likely be doing a lot of day trips.

See also Hostels in Palermo, Sicily for Couples, Women, Families & Solo Travellers , and Hostels in Bologna for Solo Travellers, Female Travellers, and Couples .

Croatia is a very popular place to visit for couples. The small towns with their quaint historic vibe, beautiful islands with stunning beaches and clear blue waters, and classical historic cities provide the perfect combination for a romantic honeymoon or couple's getaway. Add to this all of the terrific seafood restaurants, local music and culture, and sunset cruises, and you have a recipe for the best romantic trip you can find. Rab Island is referred to as the island of love, because it has a small walled city lined with artists and shops. But it's not the only one, as Korcula, Dubrovnik, Hvar, and others also offer the choice of exploring historic sites, snorkeling in blue waters, hiking in the nearby hills, or all of them on the same day! Zagreb, Dubrovnik, and other larger cities have historic cathedrals, theaters with cultural and musical productions, delicious restaurants, fresh markets, and other romantic activities that couples will love.

Split : It's not uncommon for couples to choose Split as their honeymoon destination. The old town is filled with character and charm. There are also parks where you can enjoy a picnic and beaches where you can soak up the fun of the Adriatic Sea. Cafes serving local cuisine spill into the streets and the old world charm offers a romantic ambiance that can only be found in Croatia.

Dubrovnik : With its beautiful old town, nice beaches, and laid back atmosphere, this makes the perfect couple's getaway destination. Pop in a local restaurant and try the seafood before exploring the charming squares and historic buildings.

See also Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Plitvice Lakes National Park , Hostels in Dubrovnik for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups , and Hostels in Zadar, Croatia for Solo Travellers, Couples, and Groups .

Is Croatia or Italy Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Travelers usually think of Italy as a better destination for backpackers than Croatia.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Italy is extremely popular for backpackers. Plenty of affordable and budget-friendly options are available here which allow backpackers to spend less on a trip. From hostels to street food to free attractions, it's possible to explore the cities and countryside of Italy without breaking the bank.

Rome : Backpackers will find no shortage of hostels where they can stay, particularly near the main train station where accommodation is particularly cheap (but not always the best quality).

Florence : The city is part of a popular route through Italy, and you'll find many backpackers and students in town. There are also many hostels, so you should have no trouble meeting other young travelers.

Sorrento : Because its a small city with accessible transportation, you'll find a decent number of hostels that make it an affordable base for exploring the area. You can hit many nearby sights as day trips or use this as a first stop off point as you make your way along the coast.

See also Best Hostels in Rome , Florence's Best Hostels , and Party Hostels in Florence .

Croatia is a very popular country for backpackers and budget travelers. The overall affordable prices combined with the wide array of fun activities has led this country to become very popular with budget-oriented travelers and younger backpackers. While the most famous and popular city for tourists is Dubrovnik, its prices are still not as expensive as in other European cities. Add to this the other beautiful towns along the gorgeous coastline that offer more affordable prices, and you'll be able to explore this dynamic country on a reasonable budget. Hvar, Zagreb, Korcula, Zadar, Split, Vis, and Rovinj are just some of the many terrific places that can be visited in an affordable manner. Hostels and low-cost guest houses are prevalent, the beaches are free, hiking is easily accessible, food can be found at lower prices, and museums are usually not too expensive, either.

Split : There's no shortage of hostels in town. This is a not-to-be-missed backpacker destination in Croatia and the social scene, beaches, water activities, and history all make Split a highlight for many backpackers.

Dubrovnik : It's not hard to find a room in a local's home near old town at an affordable price. The food is delicious and affordable as well, and you'll find plenty of other backpackers in town to hang out with.

See also Hostels in Split, Croatia for Backpackers and Budget Travellers , Hostels in Zagreb , and Hostels for Solo Travellers, Couples, & Groups in Plitvice Lakes National Park .

Is Croatia or Italy Easier for Transportation? Which is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Italy has better transportation options to get you around the region.

Italy has some very good public transit options. Nationally, the major cities and smaller towns in Italy are connected with a terrific rail system, and high-speed trains connect major destinations. Furthermore, the cities have terrific public transit systems that include subways, trams, and buses. Getting around Italy is quite easy.

See also Transportation in Venice , and Transportation in Rome .

• Traveling by train is extremely popular.
• It's possible to travel by bus.
• It's quite common to travel on cruise ships and excursions.
• It's fairly easy to travel by car.
• Travel by airplane is possible.

Croatia has a few public transit options. Trains connect the major cities in the northern half of the country quickly and efficiently, but only travel as far south as Split. This leaves Dubrovnik and other southern regions without train service, but they are connected by a terrific bus system. The rail lines provide a smooth and efficient way of traveling between the major cities and to nearby countries, and high-speed trains and night trains are also available on some of the routes. Buses fill the gaps of where the trains don't go, and it's possible to take a bus to Dubrovnik from Split and other destinations. Also, the roads are great, and if you want to see more of the countryside or national parks, hiring a rental car could be worth the money for a terrific road trip. Furthermore, with so many islands, Croatia has a huge network of ferry boats to transport people and vehicles. Many of these are high-speed catamarans, too. The major cities, including Dubrovnik, have airports with connections to the rest of Europe. Also, many travelers arrive on cruise ships.

• Travel by train is possible.
• It's very easy and convenient to travel by bus.
• It's quite common to travel on ferry boats.
• It's very easy and convenient to travel on cruise ships and excursions.
• It's possible to travel with an organized tour.
• It's quite common to travel by car.

Is Croatia or Italy more Comfortable for a Trip?

Both Croatia and Italy can feel quite modern and comfortable as they both have an established tourist infrastructure.

People often come to Croatia because it is such a comfortable and luxurious destination. Even though it's in Eastern Europe, you'll still find modern standards of comfort here as you would expect in any other European or western country. Hotels at all prices ranges have modern amenities, clean facilities, and helpful service. Tour companies offering a variety of services can be found everywhere, the public transportation is clean and safe, and food quality is extremely high.

Italy is extremely comfortable for travelers as it is a modern destination with plenty of amenities. This is a country with a huge infrastructure for tourists and travelers. With a wide range of nice hotels and luxurious resorts, a great public transit network of high-speed trains, fine-dining and casual restaurants, nightlife, and modern conveniences, Italy can be extremely comfortable for travelers.

Is Croatia or Italy more Touristy?

Italy generally has a more touristy vibe than Croatia.

Many of tourists come to Italy every year, as it's an extremely popular destination. This is one of the most visited countries in the world for tourists. Its major cities such as Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan host millions of visitors every year because of their world-famous attractions, cuisine, and history. Even some of the smaller towns and rural areas see plenty of tourists. Whether you're visiting the coastline or an inland region, it can be hard to escape other travelers.

Croatia is fairly touristy, with a decent number of visitors coming each year. The most popular places to visit are Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes, and some of the other beautiful cities such as Hvar, Split, Zagreb, and the island of Korcula. While Dubrovnik hosts the most tourists, many of which arrive on cruise ships for the day, the crowds are still not too bad compared to other European cities. The evenings see less crowds, so you can experience the city lights and restaurants in style without any hassle most of the time. The other destinations also don't see too many tourists, meaning that you can relax and enjoy your time exploring Croatia without having to wait in long lines or deal with crowds that are unmanageable.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Croatia , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Croatia , The Best Historical Tours in Croatia , The Best 10-Day Tours in Croatia , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Croatia , The Best 2-Week Tours in Croatia , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Croatia , The Best Bicycle Tours in Croatia , The Best Adventure Tours to Croatia , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in Croatia , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Croatia , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Croatia , The Best Honeymoon Tours in Croatia , The Best Walking Tours in Croatia , The Best Luxury Tours to Croatia , The Best Budget Tours to Croatia , The Best Tours for Seniors to Croatia , The Best G Adventures Tours to Croatia , The Best 3-Day Tours from Split , The Best 3-Day Tours from Dubrovnik , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Split , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dubrovnik , The Best 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik , The Best 2-Week Tours from Split , The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Italy , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Italy , The Best Historical Tours in Italy , The Best 10-Day Tours in Italy , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Italy , The Best 2-Week Tours in Italy , The Best Bicycle Tours in Italy , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Italy , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Italy , The Best Adventure Tours to Italy , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Italy , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Italy , The Best Walking Tours in Italy , The Best Luxury Tours to Italy , The Best Budget Tours to Italy , The Best Tours for Seniors to Italy , The Best Contiki Tours to Italy , The Best G Adventures Tours to Italy , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Rome , The Best 10-Day Tours from Rome , and The Best 2-Week Tours from Rome .

Which country is cheaper, Italy or Croatia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

• Croatia Prices Italy Prices
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day Croatia $ 102 Italy $ 180

The average daily cost (per person) in Croatia is $102, while the average daily cost in Italy is $180. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each country. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Croatia and Italy in more detail.

Accommodation

• Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person Croatia $ 52 Italy $ 92
• Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room Croatia $ 104 Italy $ 184

Compare Hotels in Croatia and Italy

Looking for a hotel in Croatia or Italy? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Croatia

Hotels in Italy

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.

Local Transportation

• Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. Croatia $ 13 Italy $ 29

Typical Local Transportation prices in Croatia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Croatia:

• Bus Around Town $ 1.52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Croatia

Also for Croatia, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• transfer from Trogir to Split/Split airport: $346
• private transfer from Trogir/Split to Zagreb via Plitvice: $1,745
• private transfer from Trogir to Zadar airport/Zadar: $311
• private transfer from Split airport to Novalja/Zrće: $532
• private transfer from Split airport or Trogir to Šibenik: $181
• Zrce, Novalja: Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $169
• Zagreb: Private Walking Tour with Funicular Ride & Transfers: $53
• Zagreb: Private Transfer to/from Zagreb Airport: $27
• Zagreb: Bus transfer from/to Rijeka: $6.92
• Zagreb- Ljubljana. Private transfer: $194
• Zagreb to Split: Private Transfer with Plitvice Lakes: $1,011
• Zagreb to Split Group Transfer with Plitvice Lakes guided Tour: $151

Typical Local Transportation prices in Italy

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Italy:

• Metro Ride (for Two) $ 2.17
• Venice 12 Hour Transport Pass $ 17
• Train to the Airport $ 16
• Taxi Ride Within City $ 8.67
• Train to Airport $ 7.58
• Vaporetto Ride $ 7.04
• 1 Day Travel Card $ 19
• Taxi from Airport $ 27
• In City Parking (Full Day) $ 32
• Bus Pass (Full Day) $ 5.42
• 7 Day Transport Card (for Two) $ 109
• Malpensa Airport Train (for Two) $ 24

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Italy

Also for Italy, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

• Trieste: Rome & Cruise Port Roundtrip Private Transfer: $5,042
• Rome Airport: Round Trip Transfer to Venice Cruise Port: $3,995
• Trieste: Cruise Port to Milan Roundtrip Private Transfer: $3,994
• Trieste Port: One-Way Private Transfer to/from Rome Hotels: $2,522
• Chioggia Cruise Port: Round Trip Transfer to Milan: $2,522
• Fiumucino Rome Airport (FCO): 1-Way Transfer To Trieste Port: $2,522
• Ravenna, Day Trip from Venice including private transfer: $2,235
• Malpensa Airport (MXP):1-Way Transfer to Trieste Cruise Port: $2,101
• Trieste Cruise Port : One Way Private Transfer to Milan: $1,997
• Ravenna, Day Trip from Bologna including private transfer: $1,756
• Bologna Airport: Round Trip Transfer to Venice+Water Taxi: $1,655
• Private Transfer to Naples/Sorrento/Amalfi Coast from Siena: $1,596

Is it cheaper to fly into Croatia or Croatia?

Prices for flights to both Italy and Croatia change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.

• Food Meals for one day Croatia $ 31 Italy $ 49

Typical Food prices in Croatia

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Croatia:

• Seafood Dinner (for 2) $ 31

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Croatia

For Croatia, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Split: Small Group Food Tour: $37
• Zadar: Small Group Cooking Class: $38
• 3-Hour Sunset Dolphin Spotting and Dinner in Medulin Archipelago : $43
• Dolphin Watching Sunset Boat Trip in Pula with Dinner: $54
• Fantastic DOLPHIN & SUNSET TOUR with dinner (Pula - NP BRIJUNI): $60
• National Park Brijuni Tour from Pula with Dolphins, Sunset&Dinner: $60
• Exclusive Dolphin & Sunset Cruise with Dinner & Drinks from Pula: $60
• Zagreb: Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $73
• Taste Zagreb Food Tour: $75
• Dubrovnik: Sunset Dinner Cruise around the Old Town: $80
• Gastro Cruise | Dinner and Boat ride around Dubrovnik Old Town: $82
• Private Half-Day Cooking Workshop Gastronomy in Korcula: $87

Typical Food prices in Italy

For Italy, here are some examples of average food and meal prices for travelers:

• Casual Lunch (for Two) $ 15
• Panini Sandwich $ 4.33
• Gelato $ 6.50
• 4 Ice Cream Sandwiches $ 3.24
• Artichoke & Mushroom Pizza $ 8.56
• Dinner $ 81
• Cheese $ 3.36
• Dinner for Two at a Pub $ 65
• Gelato $ 2.38
• Dinner at Pizzeria (for 2) $ 26
• Gelato and Coffee $ 7.58

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Italy

For Italy, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

• Exclusive Cooking Class - Pasta Tagliatelle Ragu & Spritz: $11
• Rome: Award-Winning Roman Food Tours: $15
• Eat Pasta in Rome, Testaccio - Self-Guided Walking Food Tour: $16
• Milan: PYT Milano Dinner Show with Live Music and DJ Set: $21
• Hard Rock Cafe Florence with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $27
• Creative Cooking for Young Chefs in Tuscany: $27
• Milan: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Venice: Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $29
• Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $31
• Food Tour of the Vatican with Farmers Market and Wine Tasting: $32
• Rome Food Tour with Wine Tasting and Farmers Market in Prati Area: $32
• Vatican and Trionfale Farmers Market Food tour and Wine tasting : $32

Entertainment

• Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc. Croatia $ 14 Italy $ 28

Typical Entertainment prices in Croatia

For Croatia, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:

• Boat to Lokrum Island (for 2) $ 14
• Dubrovnik City Wall Tour (for 2) $ 56
• Dubrovnik Cable Car (for 2) $ 48

Tours and Activities in Croatia

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Croatia.

• BLUE CAVE & 5 islands tour from Hvar: $98
• Blue cave and Hvar - 5 Islands speedboat tour from Split: $169
• History tour: $33
• Kornati island National Park & Telascica Nature Park Boat Tour from Vodice: $76
• MONTENEGRO TOUR from Dubrovnik: $103
• Montenegro Bay Cruise with Lunch on the Boat from Koločep: $111
• Panorama guided Zadar Eco Tuk Tuk tour: $53
• Podstrana and Jesenice Full-Day Island Adventure Boat Trip: $76
• Private Medieval Adrenaline Family Tour in Istria : $209
• Private Photography Tour in Makarska Croatia : $60
• Private eclectic experience of Rastoke and Plitvice Lakes National Park: $163
• Private walking tour Opatija -Romantic spotlight of the Adriatic: $152

Typical Entertainment prices in Italy

Below are a few sample prices from actual travelers for Italy's activities, tours, and tickets:

• Venice Boat Ride $ 16
• Bell tower of St. Mark Entrance Fee $ 8.67
• Gondola Ride (for Group) $ 87
• Admission to Uffizi $ 12
• Phone Booking Fee for Uffizi $ 4.33
• Firenze Card (for Two) $ 108
• Rome Museum Vaticano (for 2) $ 75
• Coliseum Tickets (for Two) $ 36
• Audioguides at Uffizi (for Two) $ 22
• Roma Pass $ 32
• Hop on Hop Off Bus (All Day) $ 22
• Segway Tour $ 81

Tours and Activities in Italy

For Italy, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

• 2 Hour Guided Walking Tour to Monopoli : $89
• 2 Hour Private Walking Tour of Brindisi: $228
• 3-Hours of Activities with Safari Grand Tour and Tasting in Vineyards: $70
• Accademia Gallery Skip the line Tickets : $34
• Alberobello: The secret origins of the trulli, private tour 2 hours: $39
• All inclusive Herculaneum Skip the Line Tour From Sorrento: $114
• Amarone wine experience in Verona countryside: $37
• Appian Way and Aqueducts Electric Bike Tour: $82
• Archaeological Tour with Tuk Tuk: $104
• Balsamic Vinegar Cellar Guided tour and tasting in Modena : $103
• Bari tour with a local tour guide.: $217
• Beekeeping Farm Tour and Tasting Experience in Lazise: $42
• Alcohol Drinks for one day Croatia $ 12 Italy $ 18

Sample the Local Flavors in Croatia

Also in Croatia, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

• Zagreb Pub Crawl: $16
• From Split: Krka National Park and Wine Tasting Tour: $17
• Split: Krka National Park Full-Day Tour with Wine Tasting: $25
• From Split: Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting Tour: $26
• Vinoplod Winery - Wine Tasting Tour: $29
• Tower Pub Crawl in Split: $29
• Wine Tasting at Black Island Winery: $30
• Krka Waterfalls, Food & Wine Tasting tour from Split: $31
• Zagreb:Private Bar Crawling and Alcohol Testing with a Guide: $32
• PERVINO - Wine tasting: $33
• Split/Trogir: Krka National Park Day Trip with Wine Tasting: $38
• Wine Tasting and Sunset Klis Fortress Tour from Split: $38

Typical Alcohol prices in Italy

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Italy:

• Two Beers $ 5.42
• Bottle of Wine $ 16
• 1/2 Litre of wine $ 9.75
• 2 Glasses of Wine $ 7.58
• Beer with Dinner (for 2) $ 4.33
• 2 Glasses of Wine $ 9.32
• 1/2 Liter Wine $ 5.63
• Glass of Chianti $ 4.55
• Bottle of Wine $ 8.12
• Bottle of Wine $ 7.04
• Pint of Beer $ 6.87
• Beer $ 5.31

Sample the Local Flavors in Italy

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Italy:

• Venice Food and Wine Tasting Tour with a Local Guide: $8.71
• Organic wine tasting: $13
• Naples: Guided Pub Crawl in the Old Town: $16
• Pub Crawl Palermo: $16
• Lucca: Wine Tasting Experience - Tenuta Adamo Winery: $16
• Wine Tasting by CarusVini in San Casciano in val di Pesa: $16
• Visit among vineyards and wine cellar with wine tasting in Nizza Monferrato: $17
• Casella's Follies a Night of Live Music and Burlesque: $17
• Wine tasting and visit to the wine cellar: $20
• Wine Tasting: $20
• Private Wine Tasting in Mezzane di Sotto: $21
• Tenuta Mareli - Wine Tasting in Tuscany: $21

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Croatia and Italy, we can see that Italy is more expensive. And not only is Croatia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Croatia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Croatia and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Italy would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Italy than you might in Croatia.

Why is Italy more expensive than Croatia?

Italy's position as one of the most popular travel destination in Western Europe make it a more expensive place to visit than Croatia. Croatia's cost of living and currency keep prices a bit more affordable. Prices for accommodation in Croatia is also kept down because it's not uncommon for locals to rent out rooms in their homes. These rooms may be basic, but they're often well located and very reasonably priced. Staying in a local's home can also offer a unique perspective into the country and its culture.

Many people travel around Croatia by bus and bus tickets are usually cheaper than trains. The short travel distances between destinations also help keep prices reasonable.

What are the most expensive and cheapest cities and regions in Italy and Croatia?

In general, the larger cities and most popular travel destinations are the most expensive places to visit in Italy. Rome, Florence, and Venice have no shortage of accommodation and restaurant options, but the prices can be quite high. In particular, hostels in Venice are a bit hard to come by, so even backpackers and budget travelers end up paying more for accommodation. Visitors to cities often spend more on museum tickets or shows, which can get expensive.

In Croatia, the most popular coastal towns tend to be the most expensive places to visit. Towns like Dubrovnik, where you'll likely see several cruise ships docked, have higher prices than more off the beaten path destinations.

How can you save money while visiting Italy and Croatia?

Travel during the shoulder season. Prices inevitably climb during the peak summer months so make sure you visit when the crowds are less.

Stay flexible. If you don't like the city you're in, or find better accommodation for a lower price, be willing to change your plans a little.

Spend time walking around the city or town you're in. Take at least a day where you don't visit a museum, show, or take a tour. Instead just head out on the town with a map and soak up the atmosphere.

Buses are almost always cheaper than trains, so look into all of your transportation options before buying tickets.

Stay with a local. Lots of locals rent out rooms, particularly in Croatia. This is a fun and affordable way to experience the country.

When is the best time to visit Croatia or Italy?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

The Mediterranean climate on the Adriatic coastal areas of Croatia is hot and dry in the summer, but wet and colder in the winter. The warmer months are fantastic for travelers, beach-goers, and hikers, which is one of the many reasons why the Croatian coast is a popular destination. Winter months see lots of rain with temperatures that are cold, but not freezing. In the northern regions away from the coast, the summers are not as hot and a bit more rainy, and the winters are much colder as they experience freezing temperatures and snow.

Italy is a peninsula in the Mediterranean Sea, and thus has a much warmer climate than most of its European neighbors. The southern regions can be especially warm year-round, and very hot in the summer. The northern regions are home to a more mountainous landscape, so they can have cold and snowy winters. But in general, any time of the year is a great time to visit.

Both Italy and Croatia are beautiful places to visit during the shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall). This is when temperatures are a bit cooler, but not too cold, and crowds tend to be less than during the peak summer months. The summer season can get crowded with travelers and cruise ship passengers and prices typically peak during these times.

Although it is said that Italy goes on vacation in August, this is increasingly becoming less true. In particular, if you're visiting the main cities or popular tourist destinations then you likely want face any inconveniences during this time. The weather can be quite hot and muggy though.

Accommodation and restaurants do often close during the winter months in coastal Croatia. If you're looking for a more relaxed place to visit and don't mind a little inconvenience, then this can be an affordable time to visit. Some smaller towns can start to feel a bit like ghost towns though, and accommodation might be hard to come by.

Should I visit Croatia or Italy in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Croatia and Italy. Many travelers come to Croatia for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Italy in the summer for the beaches, snorkeling, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Dubrovnik is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in Dubrovnik average around 25°C (77°F), and Rome fluctuates around 25°C (77°F).

In July, Dubrovnik usually receives more rain than Rome. Dubrovnik gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain each month for the summer.

• Summer Average Temperatures July Dubrovnik 25°C (77°F)   Dubrovnik   25°C (77°F)

Should I visit Croatia or Italy in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Croatia as well as Italy. Many visitors come to Croatia in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Italy for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Dubrovnik is around the same temperature as Rome in the autumn. The daily temperature in Dubrovnik averages around 18°C (64°F) in October, and Rome fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

Dubrovnik receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Dubrovnik usually gets more rain in October than Rome. Dubrovnik gets 162 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Rome receives 94 mm (3.7 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Autumn Average Temperatures October Dubrovnik 18°C (64°F)   Dubrovnik   17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Croatia or Italy in the Winter?

Both Italy and Croatia are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Croatia for the skiing, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Italy because of the skiing, the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In the winter, Dubrovnik is around the same temperature as Rome. Typically, the winter temperatures in Dubrovnik in January average around 9°C (48°F), and Rome averages at about 8°C (47°F).

It's quite rainy in Dubrovnik. In January, Dubrovnik usually receives more rain than Rome. Dubrovnik gets 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Rome receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain each month for the winter.

• Winter Average Temperatures January Dubrovnik 9°C (48°F)   Dubrovnik   8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Croatia or Italy in the Spring?

Both Italy and Croatia during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Croatia because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Furthermore, the beaches and the natural beauty are the main draw to Italy this time of year.

In April, Dubrovnik is generally around the same temperature as Rome. Daily temperatures in Dubrovnik average around 14°C (57°F), and Rome fluctuates around 14°C (57°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik usually gets more rain in April than Rome. Dubrovnik gets 104 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Rome receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.

• Spring Average Temperatures April Dubrovnik 14°C (57°F)   Dubrovnik   14°C (57°F)

Typical Weather for Rome and Dubrovnik

Related articles for croatia, related articles for italy.

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Croatia or Italy: Which is the Best Destination for Your Adventure?

Are you wondering whether to visit Croatia or Italy? We’ve spent plenty of time in both… read on as we help you make your decision between Italy or Croatia!

Travelling to Europe? Don’t go before grabbing our best travel tips for making the most out of your Europe trip!

It’s probably a terrible idea to compare countries. Our Italian friends will protest, our Croatian friends will groan. Even so, we decided it would be fun and helpful to other travellers if we highlighted the best and worst of Italy and Croatia by comparing each to its neighbour!

Of course, if you can visit both Croatia and Italy, we highly recommend you do. We love each country in its own way. But if you have to decide, we hope this helps.

So here we go…

Croatia or Italy: Which Should You Visit?

What’s in our croatia versus italy international smackdown.

1. Is There Better Food in Italy or Croatia? → 2. Is Accommodation Better in Croatia or Italy? → 3. Did We Like the People Better in Italy or Croatia? → 4. What’s Better? Croatia Tourism or Italy Tourism? → 5. Is WiFi Better in Croatia or Italy? → 6. Are Roads Better in Croatia or Italy? → 7. Croatia or Italy: The Winner Is… →

Is There Better Food in Italy or Croatia?

Sorry Croatia, but I think we all know that Italy is the Food Capital of the World . In Italy, you have to work pretty hard to get a bad meal – especially in Umbria or Tuscany Italy, where we spent most of our time.

Almost every slice of pizza was great, almost every pasta dish a revelation. There are plentiful, hearty choices for vegetarians and vegans, and it’s not considered weird if you don’t want cheese on your pizza.

If you like grilled animals, Croatia might be a great eating destination for you. We prefer animals to be free to run around in forests, so the choices were almost always pizza or pasta. Neither was great. Admittedly, some of the seafood was very tempting, and if you’re a fish fan, Croatia might be food heaven for you.

Since there are bakeries in virtually every small town in both countries, we sampled at least one per day. In Italy, the sweets were magnificent, delicious, fluffy pieces of yum. The bread, on the other hand, varied from town to town and region to region. It was usually a little dissatisfying.

Croatians really know how to do bread, but their sweet baked goods are lacking (not that that stopped us from eating them daily).

Result: One point for Italy. Italian food is much better for travellers than Croatian food!

Is Accommodation Better in Croatia or Italy?

Places to stay are cheap and plentiful in Croatia, with sobe (rooms in private homes) being the chief source of beds. No matter how small the town, the sobe were always spotlessly clean. We also found that almost all sobe had a full kitchen, so this saved us from having to eat the poor Croatian food every night!

In Italy, you need to do some advance research to get a good B&B, but there are plenty around. The Agriturismo business in Italy is also great, and provides decent accommodation in the middle of nowhere, on a farm, which is often useful for cycle tourists.

One thing we found in both countries is that the places run by women are almost always just a little cleaner and more comfortable than those run by men. To be blatantly sexist, a woman’s touch goes a long way.

The camping we saw in Italy was pretty bad, quite frankly, but most of the campgrounds were still closed, as it was off-season.

Camping in Croatia tends to lean toward the luxury side of camping, with campgrounds often being secluded, not very close to anything interesting. However, as we experienced at Solaris, campgrounds in Croatia can be a fun as a destination in their own right.

Result: One point for Croatia. Accommodation in Croatia is more welcoming and more affordable than in Italy.

Did We Like the People Better in Italy or Croatia?

This is where we’re really going to make enemies.

In general, Croatians seemed happier, more welcoming, and more helpful than the Italians we encountered. We were almost always greeted with friendly smiles, and people seemed more than happy to spend time talking and explaining things to us.

Almost everyone speaks English in coastal Croatia, so that makes it a lot easier to communicate and may have a big effect on how we were received.

The big exception in Croatia were the Jadrolinija ferry company employees, who were brusque, uncommunicative, and universally unhelpful.

It Italy, almost no one could or would speak English to us, which is fine of course. We don’t expect everyone to speak our language.

We had a lot of fun trying to communicate using body language, and Italians are much better at that than Croatians. Combined with our minimal understanding of Italian, we got along just fine.

Still, we met fewer truly sunny, happy people in Italy, and many more grouchy grumps who made us feel as though they would have preferred us to stay away from their beautiful country.

Result: One point for Croatia. Croatians tend to be more welcoming and friendly than Italians.

What’s Better? Croatia Tourism or Italy Tourism?

Aside from the closed camping, Italy was a little more prepared for tourists during the shoulder season. In Croatia, there is a definitive season – June to September – and if you’re there outside that time, you can expect most things to be closed or under construction. Italy has a more year-round tourist trade, so they seemed less surprised to see us and better able to accommodate our needs.

In Italy, it was sometimes very hard to figure out how things worked, which way to go, details of schedules and timetables, and the like. We’re not sure if this is down to disorganization or the language barrier. Either way, we felt Croatia was a little easier to navigate.

If you’re visiting Florence Italy, you might like these tours:

April was a great time to travel in both countries. Nothing was busy except for the big monuments and we were secure showing up in any town, knowing we’d easily find a room for the night.

In general, there seem to be more and more varied places to visit in Italy. But that’s not to say Croatia doesn’t have a wealth of interesting sites! It does.

Result: One point for Italy. There are so many stunning places to visit in Italy, it would be hard to see them all in a lifetime!

When you go to Dubrovnik Croatia, check out these tour options:

Is wifi better in croatia or italy.

To be honest, WiFi is a little sporadic in both Italy and Croatia.

In Italy, we found that cafes almost always had free (and fast) WiFi, unless you’re in a city that offers free city-wide WiFi. To use that, you have to register for the WiFi using an Italian phone number and Italian social security number!

So that’s pretty useless for your average non-Italian tourist. When we did manage (once) to get onto this system, it was so slow as to be pretty useless anyway. We also found that WiFi was rarely available at our accommodation, so we could only get online while spending extra cash while sitting in smoky cafes.

In Croatia, WiFi is offered more widely, but it also fails to work more often. You don’t really know until you try it if there is in fact WiFi that is useable, or terrible WiFi that doesn’t really work. More than once we checked in to a place and were given a password to a system that didn’t go online. Campgrounds were the worst offenders, universally offering slow, intermittent, and unreliable WiFi.

Finally, there was a small section of Central Dalmatia, near Makarska, where suddenly free WiFi was hard to find, and everyone was charging for it. Weird.

Result: It’s a tie! WiFi is pretty bad in both Croatia and Italy. They really need some improvements to catch up to worldwide standards for connectivity.

Are Roads Better in Croatia or Italy?

Road quality might only be important to you if you’re cycle touring or you want to take a roadtrip in Croatia or Italy.

The Croatian roads we encountered were much better than those in Italy. The road surfaces themselves are remarkably good in Croatia – not surprising considering how many road crews we saw.

In Italy, almost every road we took was cracked and bumpy, making for some shaky riding.

Italian drivers are infamous for being fast and a little crazy, and this proved to be true. They tended to speed by us very close, and we got a few irritated honks almost every day.

In Croatia, tour buses are the big threat. Most cars and trucks slow down a little and move over as they drive by, but for some reason, tour buses just acted like we weren’t there, giving us a mini heart attack every time one went by.

Both countries are filled with hills, so you can expect a lot of ups and downs in either place.

Result: Point for Croatia! Roads in Croatia are better-maintained and the drivers are not nearly as crazy.

Croatia or Italy: The Winner Is…

By our points system, Croatia just edges out Italy by a single point! And if you’re not worried about how good the roads are, then it’s a tie.

Which is a great result, because Croatia and Italy fall firmly in our top 10 countries in the world to visit.

Italy has high art, culture, charming hill towns, and delicious food. Croatia has gorgeous vistas, wonderful walled cities, luxurious beach destinations, and extremely friendly people.

If you’re wondering whether to visit Croatia or Italy, we highly recommend you make the time for both!

The links we’ve provided to tours of Croatia and Italy are affiliate links. That means that if you use one of the links to book a tour, we make a tiny commission at NO COST to you. So please use our links! You’ll be helping to keep creating the best travel advice we can provide. Thanks! S&J

♥    Happy adventures, Stephen & Jane

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Hi, I'm Jane, founder and chief blogger on My Five Acres. I've lived in six countries and have camped, biked, trekked, kayaked, and explored in 50! At My Five Acres, our mission is to inspire you to live your most adventurous life and help you to travel more and more mindfully.

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Find your ferry

Ferry croatia to italy.

Travelling by ferry from Croatia to Italy is often the easiest and fastest way of moving between the countries. Especially if you are going from the central or southern part of Croatia to central and southern Italy . The car ferry connection from Split to Ancona is available year-round, the passenger-only ferries only operate in the period from May to October, some even only in July and August. 

Table of Contents

Car ferry from Croatia to Italy

There are 3 possible car ferry connections between Italy and Croatian. The most northern one is from Zadar to Ancona , during the summer season there are 4 weekly departures. In middle Dalmatia there is a car ferry from Split to Ancona, this route is operated by more companies during the summer season, bringing the total weekly departures up to 7. The most southern connection is between Dubrovnik and Bari, this one also operates 4 times a week during the summer season. Most of the ferries sail overnight, with arrival in Italy in the early morning hours. It’s not possible to rent a cabin on the ferries.

Croatian ports with ferry to Italy

Below you can find a list of the ports in Croatia, which has a ferry connection to Italy.

From Umag there is a fast ferry connection to Venice from June to September operated by Venezialine , this line operates once per week. In July and August, there is also a weekly line operated by Adriatic Lines.

From Porec there is a fast ferry connection to Venice and to Trieste during the summer season. The route between Porec and Venice is available from May to September, in July and August there are daily departures. For the catamaran you can book a regular one way ticket if you are transferring from Croatia to Italy. If you are staying in Porec and want to see Venice the ferry company offers special day trip tickets .

Like from Porec there is also a fast ferry connection to Venice and to Trieste from Rovinj during the summer season, in addition there is also a weekly connection from Rovinj to Cesenatico near Rimini . The line between Rovinj and Trieste is operated by Libertylines, the ferry route from Rovinj to Venice is operated by Venezialines and Adriatic lines, both companies offer day trip tickets and regular one way and return tickets . The day trip tickets do not allow any luggage, so they can not be used for transferring to Italy

From Pula it is also possible to travel to Venice. F rom June to September, there are up to 7 weekly departures between the cities. The route is operated by Venezialine and Adriatic Line. In August there is also a fast ferry from Pula to Pesaro operated by Gomo Viaggi. This route is a great option if you are going to the Italian Adriatic coast near Rimini.

In earlier years Venezialine used to have a weekly catamaran between Rabac and Venice , this connection is no longer part of their route network.

Mali Losinj

From the end of June to the beginning of September Gomo Viaggi has a fast ferry connection from Mali Losinj to Cesenatico or Pesaro. In July and August the route is operated twice a week.

Gomo Viaggi operates a catamaran between Rab and Cesenatico or Pesaro. The line is operated in August. 

The catamaran between Novalja and Cesenatico or Pesaro is operated in the busiest weeks of the summer usually from mid /end July to the end of August.

Zadar is one of only 3 cities that has car ferry connection to Italy , the ferry company Jadrolinija operate a car ferry from Zadar to Ancona , in July and August the line operates up to 4 times a week , the ferry sails overnight leaving Zadar in the evening hours and arrive in Ancona in the early morning hours . If you are staying in the north and eastern part of Croatia this ferry connection is the most optimal one.

The ferry connection Split to Ancona is the most important ferry connection between Croatia and Italy. T he Croatian ferry company Jadrolinija operates a whole year connection, with up to 4 weekly departures in the summer season. Additionally, the ferry company SNAV operates a car ferry on the route during the summer season. All ferry departures sail overnight , seating is included, but you can rent a cabin if you wish to sleep in a bed during your travel.

The company GSTravel used to operate a fast ferry from Ploce to Termoli , due to Coronavirus the lines has been cancelled for 2020, it’s currently not clear if the route will return for the 2021 season.

If you are travelling from South Croatia to the southern part of Italy the ferry connection between Dubrovnik and Bari is ideal. The ferry route operates most of the year, and it has has up to 4 weekly departures.

FAQ ferry Croatia to Italy

As Italy is part of Shengen and Croatia is not, there is a border control where you will have to show your passport .

That depends which connection you are travelling with, the fastest route is the one from Istria to Venice , which takes about 3 hours. The longest routes are the car ferries travelling overnight, they have a travel time of about 10 hours.

Depends from where to where you are travelling and how many people there are in the car.

You can bring your dog to the car ferries.

Map ferry Croatia to Italy

On the map below you can see the ferry ports in Croatia and Italy which can be sailed to and from, the Croatian ports (marked purple) and the Italian ports (marked orange) are ports for fast ferry connection. The dark red and brown ports are car ferry ports. To see departures from a specific Croatian port, click on the port icons to see possible destinations in Italy.

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2024 Cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

It's no secret that Rome is home to some of the most historically significant and beautiful sights in Europe. What you may not know is that you can visit Rome and many of the exciting destinations surrounding it when you book a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line out of our Rome (Civitavecchia) port of call . We have several itineraries to choose from, each with perks such as unique excursions and breathtaking views.

You have plenty to consider when booking a cruise, such as destinations or ports, itineraries, cabins, and excursions. To give you an idea of which cruise is best for you, here are some details about what you can explore on a Norwegian cruise from Rome in 2024 .

Ready to start planning? Explore all Rome cruises .

Step Into Scenes from History

If a cruise vacation that allows you to delve into human history interests you, Norwegian has plenty of options. Many of our cruises leave from the port of Rome (Civitavecchia) , one of the richest areas in terms of historical artifacts and buildings in Italy. Experience walking streets in the footsteps of ancient Romans. Explore legendary museum relics and visit globally famous historical monuments.

Another Italian port that's filled with historical significance is Florence/Pisa (Livorno) , a stop for many Norwegian cruises. Here, you can visit Michelangelo's renowned statue of David and explore the Piazza del Duomo and Santa Croce.

At the port of Cannes (France) , you'll arrive at the home of the Cannes Film Festival. This annual event attracts many fashionable celebrities and movie personalities. Take a walking tour through historic Monaco, treat yourself to luxury in Monte Carlo, and shop some of the most iconic fashion outlets on the French Riviera.

Revel in the Beauty of Nature

With a history reaching back to 295 A.D. and a breathtaking skyline where the mountains kiss the Adriatic sea, Split (Croatia) is the perfect destination to experience some of nature's most incredible sights. Split sits right on the Adriatic Sea, and its many harbors and coastline hubs offer chances to grab a bite to eat or just relax and breathe in the fresh sea air. As you look up, you'll view impressive mountains towering over the city, covered with forests and hidden waterfalls.

For some of the best seafood you'll ever taste, visit the restaurants or cafes in Split. Smoked ham and local cheese also await you in this coastal town.

A vision of crystal blue waters and soft, sandy beaches, the port of Corfu, Greece , is a favorite among Norwegian cruisers. In this idyllic island town, you'll have tranquil views of greenery and mountains, peppered along the coast with beaches where you can suntan, swim, and pursue other watersports. You'll rarely feel closer to nature than while you're exploring one of Corfu's tucked-away coves, brimming with plants and wildlife that you certainly won't see back home.

RELATED CRUISES: 10-Day Greek Isles Round-trip Rome: Santorini, Athens & Florence 10-Day Europe From Rome to Lisbon: Italy, France, Spain & Gibraltar 10-Day Mediterranean from Rome to Venice: Italy, Greece & Croatia

Feast on Delectable Local Cuisine

Once awarded the title of the European Capital of Street Food, Messina (Sicily), Italy , is the ideal port of call for foodies cruising the Mediterranean. Packed with restaurants and cafes, this city offers countless chances to enjoy a gourmet meal or grab a quick bite on the go from a local street vendor. You might also try the local Marsala wine and unwind while you reminisce on your travels.

Apart from its iconic canals and expansive St. Mark's Square, the port of Venice (Trieste), Italy , is the perfect place to sample Italian cuisine and desserts. Discover authentic pizza shops, picturesque cafes, and colorful markets where you'll find local favorite street food. Don't forget to stop by one of the city's gelato windows for a scoop of delicious ice cream.

Dance and Shop Until You Drop

If vibrant nightlife and luxury shopping are on your list of must-dos while cruising, you'll love the ports of call we visit in Spain on our cruises leaving from Rome. When you're not taking in all the beautiful wildlife and coastal views of Ibiza , you can enjoy some of the city's colorful nightlife culture. Dance the night away with friends at one of the city's many clubs, but don't miss your call time at the port the next day.

There are also plenty of places to party in the port of Palma (Majorca) , with options for nightlife, wine tasting, and more. If you enjoy art, you can visit galleries and perhaps purchase an original piece from a local artist. At the city's many boutiques, you can browse souvenirs that capture the Spanish flair of Palma you'll be sure to love.

These are just some of the ways you can enjoy yourself when you book a cruise vacation from Rome with Norwegian. When you cruise with us, you'll have a vacation to remember, with exclusive access to memorable excursions, private tours, and delectable meals. If you're cruising to Europe in 2024, book with Norwegian and treat yourself to all the luxuries that await on our ships and itineraries.

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Where Lonely Planet staffers are traveling this summer

Apr 19, 2024 • 10 min read

Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is one of the places Lonely Planet staffers plan to visit this summer © ronniechua / Getty Images

Summer is around the corner in the northern hemisphere, and the team at Lonely Planet is already making (or has made) their travel plans.

If you're wondering where to go and what to do this summer, why not follow one of our leads and discover a new destination or rediscover an old favorite? I, unlike my colleagues, have yet to make plans, so finding out where everyone else is going has lit a fire under me. Likewise, I hope these trip plans inspire you to make some of your own – and that you'll turn to Lonely Planet for help when plotting your next getaway.

Here are just some of the places the staff at Lonely Planet traveling this summer.

"I'm going to a backcountry lodge in Banff . It's only accessible by hiking in. I’ve wanted to do one of these for ages, so this is how I’m celebrating my 40th!" – Jessica Lockhart, Senior Editor, Oceania

Banff and Jasper National Parks have several rustic backcountry lodges surrounded by unparalleled scenery. Each lodge has its own unique setting, hosts and history, but all have simple amenities, minimal (or no) electricity and running water, and welcoming common spaces where travelers can gather to read, play cards or recount the day’s adventures. Advance bookings are key – prices may seem steep, but factor in the included home-cooked meals and freedom from setting up camp or worrying about weather and wildlife, and the cost suddenly becomes worth it. 

Keen to go hiking in Canada? Here's our guide to the best trekking routes

"I will be visiting Makarska Riviera , including Brela , Makarska, Tucepi and the island of Korčula . The trip is all about promoting Croatia ’s great outdoors , so the itinerary includes kayaking, rafting, buggying and lots of hiking !" – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Croatia’s tourism peaks between June and August, when the Adriatic’s warm waters charm countless visitors. It’s great fun, though afternoons are roasting hot, the lines at attractions are at their longest, and accommodation costs rise. Inland, temperatures are higher, but crowds are less noticeable. June is the quietest month of high season, but with clear skies, music festivals and the promise of early summer, it's a strong contender for Croatia’s best month. 

Ready to plan your trip to Croatia? Choose the right time for your visit with our seasonal guide

"I'm going island hopping  in Greece for four weeks in June. I'll be spending most of my time on Serifos (to start) as it's where the local Greeks holiday  – doing a pottery class, vineyard tour, taking boats to secluded coves, going to cooking school and generally trying to be as fabulous as possible – with additional stays on Santorini and Paros . – Chris Zeiher, Senior Director of Trade Sales and Marketing

Greece is ancient sun-bleached ruins piercing blue skies, the balmy Aegean lapping an endless coastline and a culture alive with passionate music, wonderful cuisine and thrill-seeking activities. Summer is when most travelers choose to explore its countless islands, and June affords the longest days of sunshine, peaking in the second fortnight. It’s also an opportune time for your first, refreshing dip of the summer. 

Going to Greece for the first time? Here our our top tips on things to know before you go

"I'm heading to Tuscany and the island of Elba ." – Annie Greenberg, Creative Director  "We are doing a girls' trip to Tuscany." – Aly Yee, Senior Director

Tuscany escapes easy definition. The Apennines – Italy ’s mountainous spine – slope into vineyard-covered rolling hills, which in turn fade into the Mediterranean coast. Late spring to early autumn is when most people visit Tuscany. It’s easy to understand why – days get longer and warmer, the countryside comes to life, outdoor dining opportunities abound, and festivals happen all around.  The island of Elba comes to life during summer, and it’s worth booking accommodation well in advance if you plan to visit in the high season. Elba offers both great beaches and hiking opportunities along its Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE, Elba’s Great Crossing) trail.

Ready to plan a trip to Tuscany?  Check out our regional guide  

"I'm off to car-free Isla Holbox , Mexico for a relaxing beach getaway. I'm planning on horseback riding and wataflow therapy, which I've never done, but should be interesting."  – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

Isla Holbox (hol-bosh), meaning "black hole" in Mayan, lives up to its name – it's like a portal to one of Mexico’s last unspoiled tropical islands. Golf carts and bicycles serve as the main forms of transportation, and visitors will discover sandy streets, colorful Caribbean buildings, lazing, sun-drunk dogs, and sand so fine its texture is nearly clay. The greenish waters are a unique color from the mixing of ocean currents, and on land there's a mixing too: of locals and tourists, the latter hoping to escape the hubbub of Cancún .

Using Cancún as a base? Here are the best day trips into the wider area

"I'm heading to Granada , Spain for a week or so, maybe getting in Málaga too. This will be my second visit, so I'm hoping to take a more relaxed approach this time and also catch up with friends." – Alison Killilea, Production Support Editor

With serene Islamic architecture, monumental churches, old-school tapas bars and counterculture graffiti art, Granada is Spain’s cultured, creative southern city; a place with a storied past centering on the Alhambra , one of the world’s great human-made wonders. While Granada can be scorching in summer, the city of Málaga is deemed to have the best climate in the country, with about 3000 hours of sun a year – the most in all of Spain. 

Seen the Alhambra? Here are Granada's other top experiences

Switzerland

"I'm also going to Zürich , Lucerne , Grindelwald  and Zermatt . I will mostly be hiking and doing lots of outdoorsy activities. My number one priority while I am in Switzerland is to do the highest hiking trail in Europe , the Barrhorn."  – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

Nowhere is perfect, but let’s face it, Switzerland gets pretty darned close. With its supermodel looks, fine weather, easy-peasy public transport , multilingual mindset and penchant for cheese and wine, this is a country where it’s easy to get comfortable – even if it is a bit on the pricey side.  Peak summer in Switzerland is  tip-top , to borrow the Swiss German phrase. Barring the odd storm, it’s nearly always hot and sunny – oppressively so, sometimes, meaning the best place to be is in the cooler air of the high mountains.

Ready to experience the best of Switzerland? Here's our guide to the top things to do

The Bahamas

"I'm heading to Eleuthera  in the  Bahamas for our annual family trip – there are 16 of us so it's always an exciting week! With age ranges of 7–70, I can report that we are all excited to do a beach bonfire and barbecue, and go sailing to swim with some piggies." – Amy Nichols, Senior Marketing Manager

The sapphire waters and  sun-soaked sands  of the Bahamas beckon travelers with warm weather that never fades. Just a short flight from the east coast of the US, this island nation is a magnet for repeat visitors and last-minute bookers alike. Eleuthera, however, is a bit tougher to get to, but is well worth the expense and effort if you're looking for vacation bliss. With its pink-sand beaches, Atlantic-battered reefs, weather-warped rock and dense subtropical scrub, this incredibly narrow 109-mile (175km-long) crescent also offers boutique hotels, revered surf breaks and some fabulous restaurants. 

Can't decide where to go in the Bahamas? We can help with this guide to the best places to visit 

"I'm heading to Naples , Florida  on a family vacation for 2 weeks. I'm planning to relax mostly, with lots of trips to the beach and eating good food! But I'm hoping to take a trip to the Everglades , too." – Aoife Breslin, Publicity and Marketing Coordinator

For upscale romance and the prettiest, most serene city beach in southwest Florida, come to Naples, the Gulf Coast's answer to Palm Beach. The soft white sand is backed only by narrow dunes and half-hidden mansions. More than that, though, Naples is a cultured, sophisticated town, unabashedly stylish and privileged but also welcoming and fun-loving. With spectacular year-round sunshine, there's certainly no bad time to visit Florida . Summers can be pretty hot, but you'll probably spend less on lodging than the winter or summer months.

Traveling to Florida on a budget? We've got some money-saving tips for you

Massachusetts

"My friends and I are going to Martha’s Vineyard , Massachusetts in July. We’re planning a Midsommar -esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our time beach hopping and strolling through Edgartown." – Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Martha's Vineyard remains untouched by the kind of rampant commercialism found on the mainland – there's not a single chain restaurant or cookie-cutter motel in sight. Sunny skies and consistently hot weather make July and August the best time for a traditional beach holiday with sunning, swimming and sand-digging. The tradeoff, of course, is that July and August are the months everyone goes to the Vineyard and it's likely to be jam-packed, so plan ahead.

Want to see more of Massachusetts? Here are the best road-trip routes

"My family is headed to Northern Michigan this summer. We're excited to paddleboard to a shipwreck, relax on the beach and sail on Lake Michigan. We'll hike and run down all the sand dunes, explore cute artsy towns full of galleries and good eats." – Sarah Stocking, Digital Editor

Summertime buzzes with travelers when draws like the  Great Lakes , charming islands and unspoiled wilderness are at their most accessible. Michigan’s high season kicks off on Memorial Day (the last Monday in May). Ferries start to depart more regularly to popular spots and while summer-only establishments lift their shutters. The weather is mostly sunny and warm, with temperatures ranging from 76°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C). This means lots of summer-only outdoor activities begin.

There are loads of great beaches in Michigan. Here's our guide to the very best

North Carolina

"My wife and I are going to Kure Beach, North Carolina for the 4th of July for five days — my favorite things to do there are take a yoga class on the beach with Kure Beach Yoga (no need to bring a mat, bring a towel!), watch the sunrise from our hotel (The Lighthouse Inn, a very laid-back and recently revamped spot right by the water so you don’t have to stress about parking, which is awful every summer), and see if we can find the boardwalk cat, Bibi." – Rachel Lewis, Senior Social Media Manager

The height of summer in North Carolina is beach time, and with 322 miles (518km) of ocean shoreline reaching from the  Outer Banks  in the north to the  South Carolina  border in the south (and 12,000 miles/19,000km of estuarine coastline along the way),  North Carolina has plenty of beaches to choose from . Kure Beach has 6 miles (10km) of protected shoreline as well as lagoons teeming with wildlife that you can explore by renting a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard.

Explore some of North Carolina's epic landscapes by foot with our guide to the best hiking routes

Rhode Island

"I'm off to Newport , Rhode Island for Memorial Day Weekend and planning on going to restaurants, wineries, mansion tours, walking and hiking." – Serina Patel, Marketing Manager

It may be the yachting capital of the world, but you don’t need nautical stripes – or a summer cottage – to enjoy the seaside retreat of Newport, Rhode Island. With its fresh briny air, expansive sea views and stunning bays, it's obvious why cityfolk continue to follow in the footsteps of the American industrialists here. Enjoy a taste of the good life by touring Newport's Gilded Age mansions built in the late 1800s, taking sailing lessons, or going wine tasting.

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