From Budapest to the Adriatic: The best things to do in Croatia for Hungarian travellers

For Hungarians, Croatia has always been more than just a neighbouring country. It is the sea. Generations of families have made the annual pilgrimage south from Budapest, Pécs, or Szeged to the Adriatic coast, drawn by the promise of turquoise water, fresh seafood, and a slower pace of life that feels a world away from the Alföld. The drive from Budapest to the Croatian coast takes as little as four to five hours, making it one of the most accessible beach destinations in Europe for landlocked Hungary. But Croatia offers far more than just coastline. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned regular, here is a guide to getting the most out of your next Croatian trip.

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Dubrovnik: The Pearl That Lives Up to Its Name

No Croatian itinerary is complete without Dubrovnik. The walled Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is as stunning in person as it appears in photographs — and yes, in those famous scenes from Game of Thrones. Walking the city walls offers sweeping views of terracotta rooftops and the deep blue Adriatic below. The Stradun, the limestone-paved main street, is perfect for an evening stroll. For Hungarians accustomed to the grandeur of Budapest’s Danube embankment, Dubrovnik offers a Mediterranean counterpoint: equally beautiful, entirely different in character.

A tip for the budget-conscious: Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most expensive city. Visit in May or September to enjoy pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and noticeably lower accommodation prices compared to the July–August peak.

Split and the Dalmatian Coast: Where History Meets the Beach

Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and the beating heart of the Dalmatian coast. The ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, built nearly two millennia ago, are not cordoned off behind a fence — they form the living centre of the city, with shops, restaurants, and apartments woven into the ancient Roman structure. The Riva waterfront promenade is ideal for a morning coffee with a sea view, and the Green Market (Pazar) offers fresh produce, local cheese, and Croatian olive oil that is among the finest in the Mediterranean.

From Split, you can catch ferries to some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands. Hvar is popular for its nightlife and lavender fields, while Brač is home to Zlatni Rat, one of Europe’s most photographed beaches. For something quieter, the island of Vis — once a Yugoslav military base closed to tourists — offers unspoiled coves and excellent local wine.

Istria: Croatia’s Tuscan Rival

The Istrian peninsula, in Croatia’s northwest, is perhaps the most naturally accessible region for Hungarian drivers. The hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan feel lifted from the Italian countryside, and Istria’s culinary scene reflects that proximity — think truffle-infused pasta, world-class olive oils, and robust Malvasia wines. Rovinj, a fishing town with pastel-coloured houses tumbling towards the harbour, is one of the most photogenic small towns on the Adriatic.

For families, the resort towns of Poreč and Umag offer clean beaches, water parks, and well-maintained campgrounds that have been a favourite with Central European holidaymakers for decades. Istria also hosts the annual truffle festival in autumn, a worthwhile reason to visit outside of summer.

Plitvice Lakes: Nature at Its Most Dramatic

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s most visited natural attraction, and for good reason. The park comprises sixteen interconnected lakes, linked by a series of waterfalls that cascade through dense woodland. The water’s colour shifts between emerald green and vivid azure depending on the mineral content and time of day. Wooden walkways wind through the park, making it accessible for most fitness levels. For Hungarians who love the tranquillity of Lake Balaton but crave something more dramatic, Plitvice delivers in abundance.