Croatia is home to many stunning places that boasts beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, offering a range of activities to delight kids of all ages. Therefore, if you plan on taking an adventure in Croatia with toddlers, you will find many things to keep them entertained. Lying along the coast of the Adriatic Sea, it is home to hundreds of beautiful islands packed with endless opportunities for spending quality time with your little ones. Below, check out our list of the best destinations in Croatia to travel with toddlers.
Being Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb offers numerous things for different families, including those with toddlers. The city has a rich history, with plenty of historical sites waiting for you and your kids to explore.
Taking the funicular railway is one of the top things to do in Zagreb with your kids. Located just across from Ilica Street, the cable car travels up and down the hill, allowing you to enjoy the city’s panoramic views from above. The cable car stops at Jelačić Square, where you’ll find a playground for your little ones to run around and play.
Jarun Lake and Park is another place to visit with your little ones. It has a shallow beach area for your kids to swim at. You’ll also find a public pool for fun days under the sun. If your little ones have built up some appetite, treat them to a delicious meal at one of the restaurants and cafes nearby.
If you want your kids to be able to explore the great outdoors and soak up the views of nature, visit Maksimir Park. Aside from having two botanical gardens, it has a playground for little kids. You will also find a zoo for kids to pet different animals. The park is perfect for parents to relax and breathe fresh air.
Since Croatia encompasses many different islands, the best way to see more of the country is on a cruise. You can hop on a luxury cruise around Croatia, which takes you and your kids to many beautiful places, such as the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park, the perfect place to explore nature with your adventurous little ones. A UNESCO World Heritage, the park has many hiking trails winding around crystal-clear lakes, past waterfalls and lush forests.
It’s worth noting that some of the trails have stairs, so taking a stroller is not a good idea. Instead, bring a baby carrier, allowing you to walk easily along the trails. Be sure to watch over your kids at all times. While there are handrails, the area can get crowded with people, especially during the peak season.
Pre-plan your route. Refer to the map and choose the path that can work best for you and your little ones. Look for the trails to take you to the park’s many beautiful waterfalls, where you can take a dip and swim with your kids.
Nestled along the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is one of Croatia’s most picturesque islands and a must-visit on your family holiday. It offers plenty of fun things to do with your toddlers, whether visiting on a short stop during your luxury cruise or spending a few days soaking up the island’s unique charm.
Exploring the Old Town of Hvar is a fun activity to do with the kids. It lies along the island’s southern coast, with picturesque cobblestone streets oozing with character, history, and charm. Check out its ancient buildings and monuments, and head out to the narrow alleyways, where you’ll find great eateries, including those with child-friendly menus.
If you want to skip the crowd and visit somewhere quiet, consider a day trip to the nearby Pakleni Islands, where you’ll find many stunning beaches, offering the perfect spot to swim and play with the kids. You can reach the islands on a boat from the harbour in Hvar town.
Sveti Klement is the largest of the islands, made up of numerous secluded bays and gorgeous beaches. It is the perfect place if you have older kids who love to snorkel. Here, you can spot incredible marine animals on your snorkelling adventure.
You can enjoy a private tour around Croatia with toddlers. A guide will take you to various attractions and share insights into the places you visit. Plenty of tours include Split, a historic city offering a blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and a laidback atmosphere.
As the second largest city in Croatia, Split boasts numerous things to do for families, from sightseeing around the famous Diocletian’s Palace to spending fun days at the beach.
Consider a walking tour of Split with your toddlers. It’s a fantastic way to get acquainted with the city and visit some of its highlights, including the Diocletian’s Palace and the Catholic Cathedral of Saint Domnius. Drop by the People’s Republic Square during your sightseeing tour. It’s a fantastic place to relax and people-watch. You’ll find an open area that looks out to the stunning views of the sea and is full of cafes serving snacks and refreshments.
Korcula is like a massive playground for kids, making it an ideal place to visit in Croatia with toddlers. You can hire kayaks to paddle across the calm seas. Or go on a boat trip to nearby islands home to secluded coves and bays.
While many of Croatia’s beaches are rocky or pebbly, Korcula has many beautiful beaches with soft white sands that are safe for your little ones to play in the sand. Some beaches have shallow waters and are safe for your little swimmers.
After spending some time at the beach, visit Korcula Town. There you’ll find a playground beside a cultural centre and another next to a swimming pool just outside town.
The National Park on Mljet is another fun place to visit with the kids. It has numerous scenic paths for kids to run around and ride bikes. You can also take a boat trip across to St Mary’s, a small beautiful island.
You might also be interested in these other articles from Bébé Voyage:
Elisabeth: On Overcoming Jetlag, Bending the Rules, and Bringing Bébé To Croatia
7 Things We Wish We Had Known Before Traveling to Montenegro and Bosnia y Herzegovina
