Istria
The unspoiled inlands of Istria are the ideal place for those seeking an adventurous and active holiday due to its rolling hills and valleys. Discover real pre-historic footprints at the Promenade of Dinosaurs on the island of the National Park of Brijuni, dinosaur replicas and skeletons Then at the Dino Park in Funtana and tropical aquatic life at the Aquarium Pula and the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre. For the ultimate adrenaline rush head to Istralandia, Croatia’s first water park. The aquatic world has 20 different slides and 1.6 kilometres of pipes and whilst the kids are descending the shoots adults can relax in the hydromassage pools. What a wildlife themed adventure for the whole family!
Zagreb
With a great array of sights and attractions, the northern region of Zagreb is great for the whole family to enjoy. Take a trip to the Croatian National History Museum’s bug collection and head to the Technical Museum, which is home to steam engines, satellites, space ship models and a planetarium!
The peaceful Maksimir Park is also worth a visit, as it is landscaped like an English garden, with alleys, lawns and lakes. There is also a zoo within the park which offers visitors the chance to view feeding times of seals, sea lions and even piranhas. In Zagreb even adults will feel like kids – because there is always something new to discover. Whether it is a new museum, street art masterpiece or delicious take on a traditional dish.
Dubrovnik
For the perfect city and beach holiday combined, head to the areas of Lapad and Babin Kuk, where you can walk along its famed beaches and then explore the Old City of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ‘dead sea’ lake on the island of Lokrum, just a ten minute boat ride from the Dubrovnik’s Old Town, has a shallow pebble beach that is ideal for young children to paddle and play in. The Uvala Lapad beach features floating water parks, trampolines, moon bounce games and a playground. Not to mention horse riding at the Kojan Koral in Konavle. Finally for a spectacular view of the whole of Dubrovnik’s Old City and its nearby islands, ride the short cable car to the top of Mount Srd. See if you can recognize the city from your favourite movies you watched with the whole family!
Zadar
The buzzing city of Zadar may not seem like an obvious choice for a family break but there is plenty for all ages to enjoy. After sight-seeing and shopping there is no better way to end the day than by sitting by the Sea Organ watching one of the world’s most beautiful sunsets accompanied by the beautiful harmonic sound of the wave crashing into the pipes. Greetings to the Sun, another nature-meets-art installation, offers a phenomenal light show kids of all ages will love. Another great spot for children is a number of beautiful beaches where they can play while adults soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere. These are just a couple of reasons why so many families return every holidays to their favourite destination. It feels like a second home (where there is always sunshine).
Kvarner
For parents who want to be able to combine a family holiday with some relaxation of their own, two things which don’t always go hand in hand, head to Kvarner. The Primorje-Gorski Kotar region on the upper part of the Croatian coast line is a beautiful idyll, lesser known than other areas and home to a newly opened five star family friendly resort. Not only does it have Europe’s biggest spa, it has a wealth of activities to keep children occupied while adults unwind with a treatment or two. Facilities include a 4,000m2 kids’ town with pools, playgrounds, indoor and outdoor games and a 350m2 Pirate Island. The only thing you will be fighting over during this holiday is what to enjoy first!
