Croatia with kids – Are Croatia family holidays a good idea in 2025?

No one wants to worry about bumps in the night or getting home safely from an evening meal. When it comes to safety and peace of mind, Croatia is hard to beat. It is the safest destination in the Mediterranean.

According to the U.S. Department of State, it’s two spots ahead of Norway and 117 spots ahead of the United States in terms of overall safety and peace.

Those who are familiar with the region’s history are aware that Croatia suffered a brutal war with Serbia in the 1990s. Because of this, some people still associate the region with instability and violence. However, that war ended in 1995, almost three decades ago. Since then, a lot of change has happened, and Croatia now enjoys one of the lowest rates of violent crime in Europe.

Gun ownership in Croatia is both culturally and legally discouraged, and levels of mutual trust are high. This is especially so in smaller towns, where many people still leave their doors unlocked.

In the off-season, it is quite common to see cars parked with the key in the ignition, so that someone else can move the vehicle if they need to get in and out of a tight parking space or street. However, we do not suggest that visitors try this strategy.

It only goes to show how relatively safe Croatia is!

The biggest potential con for visiting Croatia is traffic.

Rural roads can be very narrow and rough.

Local drivers can be careless, and rental drivers might be clueless. Both can increase the chances of accidents.

On the other hand, it’s not a unique story because many coastal regions in the Mediterranean have narrow streets.

Things are getting better because the fatality numbers have decreased more than the EU average over the past decade or so.

When driving in Croatia, be extra careful.

No rush with kids in the careful.

Also, pay attention to scooters and e-bikes when crossing streets. Instill that in your kids on the first day.

These are quite common in the country, and, as in other countries, this form of transportation remains poorly regulated. So, it can be quite dangerous both for riders and bystanders. It’s very important to look out for careless riders and only cross the street when the road is absolutely free.

Bottom line: Croatia is a safe and peaceful place and one of the best destinations for a vacation with your kids.

This probably goes without saying, but learning about the food is a key piece of the happy-kid puzzle.

An unfamiliar cuisine can put picky eaters into overdrive, turning relaxing family dinners into a masterclass in patience and negotiation. Fortunately, Croatian culinary traditions tend to offer a lot of “safe” options for kids.

Croatian dishes are influenced by Mediterranean, Eastern European, and Balkan flavors.

This results in a range of cooking methods that lead to some amazing cuisine.

Typically, this cuisine includes simple but flavorsome seasonings, which makes it popular with children.

Most menus in Croatia include pizza, burgers, chicken nuggets, pasta, and grilled meats, which are always safe bets for kids.

Some popular Croatian dishes include:

1. Ćevapi: grilled minced meat rolled into sausages, usually served with pita bread and onions. These are popular with kids because they are the Croatian hotdog.

2. Peka: slow-cooked meat and vegetables prepared under a bell-shaped lid.

3. Pljeskavica: minced meat, shaped into a patty and grilled - kids will enjoy this Croatian-style burger.

4. Burek: pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. The name and the filling are a conversation starter in the region. Ask about it; kids love stories.

5. Kulen: dried spicy sausage made with pork and paprika. Enjoy it thinly sliced as an appetizer or in a sandwich.

6. Strudel: sweet pastry filled with fruits.

7. Fritule: small, fried doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar.

8. Black risotto: a flavorful dish made with squid ink, rice, and seafood. Probably more of an adult choice than kids’.

9. Zagrebački odrezak: fried breaded veal cutlet filled with ham and cheese

10. Octopus salad: boiled or grilled octopus, potatoes, onions, parsley, and olive oil mixed into a refreshing salad.

Coastal Croatia is most famous for its seafood, which is caught fresh from the Adriatic Sea.

Dishes like grilled fish, calamari, and mussels are popular in coastal towns and cities like Zadar and Split. However, it’s important to take note that fish is usually served whole.

Croatian chefs are friendly and responsive to requests, especially with kids. So, you might ask them to remove the fish head in the kitchen (if your kid is the nothing-with-eyes type).

It’s common sense, but be vigilant for small bones, and do not serve whole fish to young children to avoid accidents.

Little travel buddies can add up to big expenses.

They want to experience everything! Fortunately, Croatia tends to be very wallet-friendly for families, thanks to the relatively low cost of living and many cheap or free kid-friendly activities.

Prices in Croatia are lower, especially when compared to other European countries. Having said that, it’s still wise to be smart and stay away from the destinations that become most popular in peak season. You can find a fantastic Croatia travel budget breakdown from Never Ending Footsteps which details how much you could expect to pay for a Croatian holiday in 2025.

You can also save a lot by renting a villa while you’re in Croatia. In fact, the larger your group, the more money you get to save.

Hotels can be pricey and tend to come with several restrictions, but with a villa, you and your family can experience true freedom. Not only is the value per square meter far better than a hotel, but you also have access to your own kitchen, storage, and laundry, which means you can travel much lighter when you explore the city.

You’ll have a kitchen space to yourselves, which means you get to prepare the meals that you and your family prefer at grocery-store prices and not rely on hotel or restaurant dishes, which can be expensive.

And, as these villas often come with basic amenities like washing machines, you get to save on the extra cost of laundry services.

Beyond that, your little ones would certainly love the experience of having an entire space all to themselves. They can run around the compound on indoor days to keep busy and possibly even make new friends in the neighborhood, as these villas tend to be in residential areas.

Renting a villa in a city like Dubrovnik, for example, is a sure way for you and your kids to get an authentic local experience and see how Croatian families live.

At the end of the day, the best strategy for reducing both cost and stress on a family vacation is to choose a home base and limit additional travel to day trips. As tempting as it is to hit all the “must-see” spots, memories of those whirlwind tours can fade fast and much time is lost in transit and orientation. For many children, a hike or a day at the beach can be just as memorable.

Picking a spot that is even a little bit outside of the red hot center of tourist traffic results in huge savings and usually offers a safer and less hectic environment for kids.

Adventures in the great outdoors offer the triple win of getting kids away from screens, using up some of their boundless energy, and costing a lot less compared to alternatives. Croatia is teeming with incredible outdoor offerings suitable for kids of all ages. Here are some ideas.

Many coastal towns and islands offer kayaking or canoeing tours that allow you to explore the local coastline and sea caves. This can be a fun and exciting activity for kids and adults alike. You can split the family into groups for kayaking contests. A half-day rental usually costs about 30 EUR.

Croatia’s islands have many beautiful bays that can be reached only by boat.

Kids will love exploring the beaches, snorkeling, and discovering the local culture and traditions.

Almost every island has 2 or 3 “hidden” konobas (local restaurants) that are just a boat ride away. Ask your boat rental operator for tips and help making a reservation. A full-day rental for a small motorboat usually starts at 100 EUR.

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is a great destination for kids.

It is one of Europe’s oldest national parks, established in 1949 with no shortage of natural wonders. It has 16 interconnected lakes arranged in cascades, with stunning turquoise-blue waters caused by mineral deposits. There are over 90 waterfalls throughout the park, with the Veliki Slap being the highest at 78 meters.

The Park has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979. However, it might be a bit pricey (adult tickets are 40 EUR per person).

Krka National Park is a great place to visit.

It’s also quite beautiful and home to a series of waterfalls and natural pools that are perfect for swimming and exploring.

Kids will love the chance to cool off in the refreshing water and climb over the rocks. For adults, tickets to the main areas are 20 EUR; for children over 7, tickets are 12 EUR. Children younger than 7 get to enter free of charge.

Croatia has thousands of free hiking trails that are suitable for families with kids.

The Velebit Nature Park and the Paklenica National Park are both great options for families who want to explore the local flora and fauna.

Helpfully, Croatia’s hiking society has published of hiking trails that are great to check out. For especially adventurous kids, there’s a chance to spend the night in one of several full-service mountain huts called “planinarski dom.”

This is sure to be an unforgettable experience for your little ones.

Many towns and cities in Croatia offer bike tours that allow you to explore the local area and countryside.

This can be a fun and active way for kids to experience the local culture and scenery. Bike rentals usually cost around 15-20 EUR per day, and some cities now have bike share programs that offer by-the-hour options for cruising the town. That said, it is important to take extra care when riding in the city. Ensure your kids are fully kitted up, complete with helmets.

These are just a few ideas for outdoor activities in Croatia that are suitable for kids. There are many other options available, depending on your interests and the region you are in. To get the best experience, be sure to research activities in advance and check for age restrictions and safety guidelines.

Croatians, like people in any other country, are human beings, which means they have varying attitudes and opinions regarding children. That said, Croatia is an overwhelmingly Catholic country, and generally, the culture strongly values family and children. It is not uncommon for Croatians to have large families and to prioritize spending time with children.

Kids are often the stars of the show during various cultural events and holidays, such as Children's Day on June 1st and Carnival, which centers on a masked parade for children.

On summer nights in neighborhoods like the Old Town in Dubrovnik, it is common to see children playing soccer on the piazza while their parents sit at the cafes nearby, confident that their children are safe under the collective gaze of neighbors and extended family.

Kids and their parents rule certain beaches that are specifically considered “family” beaches because of their shallow waters and protection from sun and wind. It is a great idea to visit some of these beaches with your kids as they are child-friendly.

Croatia has a relatively high birth rate compared to many other European countries, and having children is still considered an important part of life for many Croatians.

Don’t be surprised (or freaked out), if a stranger smiles at your baby, offers your child candy (of course, you don’t have to accept), or even gives your little one a pat on the head.

As in Italy and other parts of the Mediterranean, children are seen as a precious gift and collective blessing.

We’ve got you excited about Croatia, right?

If that’s at all true, let’s add some tips for making the most of your stay:

Look for hotels, resorts, or vacation rentals that offer family-friendly amenities such as children's play areas, swimming pools, and activities. However, as we’ve said before, your best bet might be renting a villa, as this ensures that you have a stable base that feels just like home and gives you the freedom to make your own meals, as well as several other benefits.

Croatia can get quite hot during the summer months, so make sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and lightweight clothing for your kids.

Since you’ll be moving about on your vacation in Croatia with kids, it’s best to rent a car.

A rental car helps you cut transportation costs while offering you and your kids comfort. If you’ll be using public transportation such as buses or trains, it’s best to research family tickets and check luggage allowances.

Remember to take extra care in traffic, though!

Slow but steady wins the race.

Croatia is a popular tourist destination.

Be prepared for crowds, and let your kid know you might be waiting in line.

If they’re not a fan of lines, visit the local sights outside of peak times.

It's always helpful to know a few basic words and phrases in the local language, such as "hello" and "thank you". It can also be a fun way for your kids to engage with the local culture and people.

You can bet that long after the trip is over, they’ll enjoy reliving the memories of the trip by exchanging some of the Croatian words they learned.

Enjoy Croatia, and enjoy your family. We suggest both at the same time.

There’s nothing like it.

You are now better prepared for a family holiday in Croatia than 99% of people will ever be.

Soak up the good vibes and live it up!