When most travellers think of Croatia, ancient city walls and terracotta rooftops likely spring to mind faster than athletic shorts and hiking poles. Too often overlooked as a hiking destination, Croatia has a striking blend of forested islands, rugged hiking routes, and mountainous national parks that make this incredible Balkan country a prime environment for walkers of all abilities. Whether you’re looking to simply stretch your legs or you’re ready to commit to a four-day trek, Croatia’s hiking trails create the perfect outdoor playground.
Vidova Gora
At just under 780m (2,560 ft), Vidova Gora is the highest peak in the Adriatic islands and offers panoramic views of the Dalmatian coast, neighbouring islands like Hvar, and even glimpses of Italy on a clear day. It’s a challenging hike, so be ready to get your sweat on, but the trail is well-marked and open year-round, making it a popular spot. It's also one of the best hiking trails in Croatia if you’re looking to understand and connect with the country’s cultural heritage. Keep an eye out for remnants of old shepherd settlements and the quaint chapel dedicated to St. Vid, after whom the peak is named.
Insider tip: Start early to beat the heat because shade is limited on this hike. When you’re done, check out Zlatni Rat Beach, one of the best things to do in Croatia, for a well-earned rest with a view or a refreshing swim.
Premužić Trail
For breathtaking views of Croatia’s untouched wilderness, there’s no better place to start than the Premužić Trail. A 57km (35 mi) masterpiece spanning the north and central Velebit mountain range, this route was designed to blend into its surroundings, with minimal visual disruption to the landscape. For outdoor enthusiasts, this means an unparalleled immersion into the twists, turns, and expanses of the region’s natural beauty, starting at Zavižan Mountain and winding through to the village of Baške Oštarije. The trail, which is made from dry stone and took four years to build, was designed to minimize elevation changes. Going north to south is the more accessible option, but it’s still a three-day hike for most people.
Insider tip: Premužić is one of the best hut-to-hut hiking trails in Croatia, but be aware of local customs. Most huts are basic, so you need to bring your sleeping bag. Seasonal availability and pre-booking policies vary, so do your research before you go.
Mount Srđ
A perfect add-on to any itinerary passing through Dubrovnik, this relatively short but scenic hike takes anywhere from 40 minutes to an hour to complete and offers stunning views over the Old Town, the surrounding mountains, and the shimmering Adriatic. It starts near Dubrovnik's city center, but be prepared for a mix of rocky and grassy terrain. You'll find plenty of photo opportunities along the ascent.
Insider tip: If you’re into history, read up on the fort of Mount Srđ before you climb. It played a crucial role in the Croatian War of Independence and adds a cultural element to this breathtaking hike.
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Medvednica Nature Park
A tranquil escape into rolling hills and lush forests, Medvednica Nature Park is a prime spot for trekking, hiking, and cycling. It’s also dog-friendly, so don’t be surprised if you see some furry friends out and about. Follow the winding trails to scenic viewpoints, discover the hidden caves, and visit the medieval fortress of Medvedgrad. Home to more than 200 bird species, rare plants, butterflies, snakes, and amphibians like the fire salamander, Medvednica is a hub for experiencing Croatia’s wildlife. Its proximity to Zagreb makes it an accessible detour for adventurers looking to combine city and nature.
Insider tip: Avoid summer’s heat and plan your visit for fall, when the foliage glows with vibrant yellow and orange hues.
Veliki Gradac
Located on Mljet island, Veliki Gradac is a lookout point offering striking views of Veliko and Malo saltwater lakes. The ascent features in one of the many hiking trails on offer in Mljet National Park, and its secluded position makes it a great spot for observing Croatia’s rich wildlife in a less crowded environment. Hiking trails on the island attract bird-watchers in particular, who come in hopes of catching a glimpse of falcons, ring doves, mallards, and thrushes.
Insider tip: The only way to reach the island is by ferry, which you can catch from mainland Croatia or some of the nearby islands. Be sure to check the timetables, which vary greatly throughout the seasons.
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Want to hike in a magical fairy world? Look no further than Plitvice Lakes National Park. Famous for its 16 emerald lakes that tumble into each other via 90-some cascades and waterfalls, Croatia’s oldest and largest national park is an ethereal realm of mist and forest. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts an impressive network of routes on boardwalks.
Insider tip: Head to the Lower Lakes section for vistas of deeper lakes cut into the limestone canyon, or opt for the Upper Lakes area for up-close views, turquoise colours, and usually smaller crowds.
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Marjan Loop
The Marjan Loop is a great sidestep from the bustle of Split and is perfect if you’re looking for an afternoon’s respite from the city. An 8km (5 mi) circuit easily accessed from Split's Old Town, it draws in hikers with its unique blend of pine forests, secluded beaches, ancient stone houses, and views across the Adriatic Sea. This hike is moderately challenging, so budget at least two hours, though this can easily extend if you’re on the lookout for wildlife or stopping to take photos of the views as you go.
Insider tip: If the weather is nice, bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a picnic and enjoy a dip at Bene Beach.
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Paklenica National Park
A hiker’s paradise known for its limestone cliffs and dramatic canyons, Paklenica National Park offers a diverse range of outdoor experiences. Its impressive mountains and excellent signage make it no stranger to rock climbers, while scenic trails make it a popular place for trekkers, too. Bring a camera and plenty of water because many routes involve uphill elements, making for stunning but dehydrating work. If you’re a nature lover, you won’t be alone up there. The park is home to a range of large mammals, such as deer, bears, foxes, and wild cats, and you can expect to see butterflies and reptiles, too. Turn your eyes to the skies for the chance to spot golden and short-toed eagles curving through the air.
Insider tip: Entry to the park requires a ticket, and if you’re travelling by car, get there early because parking is limited. You may encounter a few refreshment stands en route, so bring cash if you want some snacks.
Milna Coastal Walk
Croatia is known for its stunning coastline, so a walk near the water is a must. Take a ferry to the island of Hvar (one to two hours from Split) and start the Milna Coastal Walk at the harbour. The route leads through seafront walkways and forested areas, passing a selection of bays and a couple of spots for snacks and drinks.
Insider tip: Because of the mix of terrain, take a pair of flip-flops and a small towel in addition to sturdier shoes. This gives you the freedom to walk up to the waterfront where the route permits without losing proper support on the paved and forested areas.
Experience it for yourself on: Sailing Croatia - Dubrovnik to Split
