Family Holidays in Croatia

The country’s most famous holiday coast stretches for 60km just south of Split. This is where to find quaint and pretty seaside towns, unspoiled little villages above tiny coves, delightful natural harbours and the ever present drama of Mount Biokovo as a backdrop.

• Makarska is the main resort and has a range of family hotels and guesthouses. But self-catering on the gorgeous Riviera is an inexpensive option with kids and gives you anything from designer villas to cute forest camping to choose from.

It’s hard to decide what to love most about the ancient city of Split. Is it the Roman palace at its heart, acres of mysterious underground caverns, landscape of red-tiled roofs drifting down to the sea? Or is it the sea itself, trimmed with fantastic urban beaches, restaurants, cafés and, quite honestly, one of the most spectacular promenades you’ll ever have strolled along?

• Choose 4-star in Split and you have your pick of the city’s hotels – many with pools and amazing views. Aparthotels and apartments are very popular and staying right in the historic centre is affordable compared to other European cities.

Dubrovnik is one of the most beautifully preserved medieval cities in Europe and a World Heritage site. Perched on cliffs overlooking the sea, its starring role in Game of Thrones is no surprise – if you have a fan in the family, there are some excellent location tours. What is a revelation is how much fun such an historic place can be – even if you’re just dropping in for the day.

• From Hilton to Radisson, Dubrovnik has several five-star, luxury hotels close to the centre. But it’s all about the sea views in this city and best for families on the water are aparthotels and villas.

Hvar is an idyllic island less than two hours by ferry from Split. With lavender fields, vineyards, mountains and delightful beaches it’s a bit like Provence without the costs and crowds. Add in 2500 hours of sun a year, peaceful prettiness for young kids, outdoor activities for older ones and gorgeous Hvar Town to entertain teenagers and it’s easy to understand why this is where Croatian families head to for holidays.

• For such an unspoiled and pretty island, Hvar has several good resort hotels. But if you want to get into the eco-spirit go camping or book a sweet bungalow in a shady pine forest.