The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered for 2024

First came must-visit Mallorca in the boozy Balearics, then the beloved blue and white Cyclades and now – Croatia has firmly asserted itself as the cool kid of European summer holidays.

From the Adriatic-adjacent Dalmatia coast to the charming region of Istria, the left wing of Eastern Europe is littered with walled Unesco cities, countless coves and flowing waterfalls.

Of course, in the summer this means Split sweats with tourists, Dubrovnik threatens to burst through its stone ramparts and Hvar Island inevitably trends on TikTok wishlists.

Thankfully, hidden between the big hitters, traditional towns, quiet islands and laid-back cities are on hand to offer less sought-out slices of the diverse Balkan country.

To open your eyes beyond the city-break classics, here are some of the sun-drenched destinations that are more ‘under the radar’ in Croatia’s competitive tourism arena.

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Primosten, Šibenik-Knin

Best for: Cafe culture

Just an hour from tourist magnet Split, Primosten spills down hills and over a narrow causeway on the Dalmatian coast. St George’s Church 1485 bell tower stands tall above a paved promenade bursting with quayside cafes, ice cream offerings and the horseshoe-pebbled bay of Raduca Beach. After sunset, live music lights a fire under dancing locals in the main square and Aurora nightclub, the beach bars chatter and souvenir stands stay open late as Primosten parties.

Where to stay

In the heart of Primosten old town, Pansion Kamenar’s airy rooms overlook the lively main square. Aside from the comfortable beds and attached restaurant serving traditional Dalmatian cuisine, stone terraces have the best seats in the house for the town’s summer concerts.