Croatia has garnered acclaim for its unique blend of rich history, breathtaking coastal cliffs, and lush olive groves and vineyards, all framed by the mesmerizing hues of the Adriatic Sea. It’s no wonder this nation stands as one of Europe’s most enthralling travel destinations.
When it comes to accommodations that reflect the country’s varied terrain and allure, options abound. In Dubrovnik, opulent hotels elegantly marry historic grandeur with contemporary comforts, positioning travelers within easy reach of the Old Town and its sixth-century architectural wonders like the Dubrovnik Palace. In contrast, the vibrant capital city of Zagreb offers state-of-the-art lodgings conveniently located near the city’s must-see sights. Hvar Island boasts establishments that blend the relaxed ambiance of a beachside retreat with the sophistication of a high-end resort. Whether you’re opting for a stay in a repurposed historic café in Split or seeking a secluded getaway in Villa Dubrovnik’s intimate coves, here are the top five hotels that promise an unforgettable Croatian experience.
Villa Dubrovnik
You might know Dubrovnik as the dramatic setting for the popular HBO series, Game of Thrones. But aside from its fictional associations with chivalric warriors and mythical dragons, Dubrovnik is a living, breathing city renowned for its iconic Old Town, which dates back to the sixth century and is framed by the dazzling Adriatic Sea. For lodging, Villa Dubrovnik stands as a five-star gem, featuring striking white edifices that form a sharp contrast against the rugged cliffs and shimmering waters below.
The hotel’s 56 guest chambers exhibit modern aesthetics adorned with wooden elements and bathed in natural light. However, the real show-stoppers are the Villa Kodin Residences. These are best described as a “hotel within a hotel,” a unique configuration that can’t be articulated any other way. Each residence is essentially a private tri-level apartment situated within the hotel, complete with three bedrooms, four washrooms, a living area, a personal terrace, and an open-air jacuzzi.
For couples seeking solitude, the Romance Suite is an ideal option. Nestled in a secluded cove, the suite provides unrivaled vistas of the historic Old Town and the adjacent Lokrum Island. The intimate ocean-facing terrace will give you the impression that you and your partner have discovered your own exclusive stretch of beach.
Palace Elisabeth, hvar heritage hotel
While Dubrovnik often garners the lion’s share of tourist attention, overlooking the resort haven of Hvar—located on the Croatian island bearing the same name—would be a notable oversight. Palace Elisabeth embodies the essence of this time-honored maritime city, positioned majestically along the Adriatic coastline. With its graceful arches embellishing the exterior and sumptuous rooms within, this luxurious Croatian hotel seamlessly blends historical allure with contemporary sophistication.
Upon arrival, pamper your palate with a gastronomic experience at the San Marco Restaurant, strategically situated atop the renowned Loggia and offering panoramic views of the central town square. There, you’ll relish Mediterranean cuisine crafted from locally-sourced ingredients. Subsequently, unwind with inventive martinis at The Bar. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Hvar Bay, this chic lounge melds lavish textures and ambient lighting, creating an atmosphere that invites you to savor each sip.
Maslina Resort
Yet another gem in Hvar that deserves your attention is the Maslina Resort, an exquisite boutique hotel located in Stari Grad, a place honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Committed to safeguarding the distinct heritage of Hvar Island, the resort is a model of sustainable luxury. Guests are welcomed with organic toiletries and essential oils, scrupulously devoid of synthetic compounds and parabens.
The interior aesthetics of the rooms are a tasteful blend of minimalist design, punctuated with elements of French artistry and Mediterranean simplicity—a tribute to Hvar’s cultural richness. Since the resort is perched along the Adriatic Sea’s coastline, each room boasts sweeping oceanic views, among various other luxurious touches. Family-friendly suites go the extra mile, featuring heated plunge pools, walk-in showers, and artisan-crafted wooden tubs.
For the ultimate indulgence, consider booking Villa Uvala. This exclusive dwelling features a range of opulent amenities, including a private gym, a swimming pool, a dedicated office space, a secluded entrance, and five bedrooms—all offering breathtaking views of the ocean. (If a private gym excites you, you may also want to explore other hotels with top-notch gym facilities.)
Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia
Situated on Pjaca, the principal urban square of Split—Croatia’s second-largest city—the Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia is deeply ingrained in the historical tapestry of its surroundings. Initially established as the city’s very first café in the 18th century, this iconic establishment evolved into a cherished rendezvous point for Croatia’s artistic and intellectual elite. It eventually metamorphosed into what is now known as the Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia, which underwent a meticulous restoration in April 2021, revealing over 30 rooms that pay homage to its storied legacy.
Given its original role as the pioneering café of the town, it’s no wonder that the hotel’s on-site dining facility is a significant attraction. Although Central Kavana & Restaurant has undergone a transformation in both ambiance and culinary offerings since its 18th-century origins, it still maintains the unique charm of a venue where stimulating conversations and ideas are freely exchanged.
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Returning to the subject of Dubrovnik’s lodgings is entirely justified, especially when discussing Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik. This extraordinary establishment is sculpted right into the cliffside, making it one of Croatia’s most visually arresting hotels. Merging the intimate atmosphere of a boutique hotel with the lavishness of a five-star accommodation, Hotel Bellevue underwent an extensive refurbishment in 2019, transforming it into a cutting-edge oasis equipped with contemporary rooms, a sophisticated spa, and exceptional on-site dining.
The hotel’s 91 revamped rooms adhere to a minimalist aesthetic, carefully designed to amplify rather than overshadow the awe-inspiring views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic sixth-century Old Town. Adorned in a subdued palette of gentle grays, soft whites, and warm beiges, the rooms emanate a sense of opulence and comfort. Floor-to-ceiling windows open onto glass balustrade balconies, providing an uninterrupted vista of the sea.
Certainly, the hotel’s pièce de résistance is its unparalleled sea views, best savored from the Michelin-endorsed Vapor Restaurant. This dining space now features a newly unveiled oceanfront terrace and offers a menu rich in local culinary traditions. Since a vacation should be about pampering oneself, the hotel’s on-site spa deserves mention. The spa includes an indoor pool adjacent to a glass wall that offers yet another sweeping view of the Adriatic. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely swim, partaking in an array of massages, or unwinding in the mosaic-adorned steam room or Finnish sauna, Hotel Bellevue provides endless possibilities for relaxation. (For those interested in exceptional aquatic experiences, you might also want to explore other hotels known for their extraordinary swimming pools.)