UK Tourists Favor Dubrovnik as Top Croatian Holiday Destination

Published on May 28, 2024

For many from the UK, the idea of a Croatian vacation typically conjures images of Dubrovnik, the country’s most frequented Mediterranean locale. Every month, over 2,300 UK residents search Google for ‘Dubrovnik holidays’, and approximately 28%, or about 1,800 people, inquire about its location. Although it’s undeniably a must-visit, Dubrovnik is rarely a haven of tranquility.

Toni Hrelja, the founder of Villsy.com, offers insights into quieter, car-free Croatian islands with preserved fishing villages, ideal for a serene retreat.

Silba boasts untouched turquoise shores and a quaint village ambiance. Home to 200 inhabitants, this northern Dalmatian island eschews cars for delivery trolleys and is accessible via catamaran from Zadar and Pula, both connected by direct flights from multiple UK cities during the summer.

Neighboring Silba in the archipelago, Unije promises an authentic Mediterranean escape, complete with essential travel health tips from the local tourist board. It features a single village with basic amenities and a handful of dining options, although its airfield is no longer operational.

Prvić, a small island near the mainland city of Šibenik (another Game of Thrones filming site), offers pedestrian-friendly pathways and rich history. It’s a short boat ride from the mainland, with the nearest airport in Split providing direct flights from four UK cities.

Ošljak, ideal for those seeking a tiny, accessible island retreat, offers a single village and minimal amenities but is a quick ferry ride from Zadar, well-connected by direct flights to various UK cities.

Lastly, Vrnik, nestled in an archipelago near Korčula and the Dubrovnik region, offers a tranquil setting with private accommodations and a single dining venue. It’s reachable from Split and Dubrovnik, with ferry connections providing a scenic route to this secluded paradise.