September 3, 2026, 3:15 pm | Read time: 4 minutes
Dubrovnik, Split, or the island of Hvar have been among Croatia’s most popular vacation destinations for years. However, a look at the travel preferences of locals often reveals entirely different places. Away from the most famous tourist magnets, coastal towns, islands, and historic cities await, where vacations become more authentic and the pace is noticeably more relaxed.
A recent analysis by HomeToGo shows which destinations are highly favored by Croatians but have so far received significantly less attention from German tourists: from historic cities inland to islands and coastal towns, where not only tourists but primarily people who call Croatia home relax on the beaches–and therefore know what’s good.
Historic Cities Inland, Led by Osijek
While most Croatia tourists flock to the Adriatic coast, many of the locals’ insider tips from the ranking lead surprisingly far inland, especially to eastern Croatia. These places represent a side of the country that many German tourists hardly know: characterized by history, culture, and a much more relaxed nightlife than in the well-known holiday resorts.
At the top of the ranking is Osijek, Croatia’s fourth-largest city and the cultural center of the Slavonia region. The city impresses with its historic fortress Tvrđa, baroque buildings, and magnificent Art Nouveau facades. Along the Drava River, promenades, parks, cafes, and restaurants invite you to linger. As a university city, Osijek is also known for its vibrant cultural life: from theater performances to art exhibitions to major summer festivals, events take place throughout the year. In the city’s clubs and bars, you can party at night like the locals.
Other Historic Cities from the Ranking
- Vukovar: The city on the Danube is considered one of the most historic in the country, combining a turbulent past with an attractive riverside location.
- Vinkovci: One of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in Europe and still an important cultural center of the Slavonia region.
- Slavonski Brod: Known for its baroque fortress, which is one of the largest preserved fortifications in Croatia.
- Varaždin: Former capital of Croatia with magnificent baroque buildings, elegant squares, and one of the most beautiful old towns in the country.
- Karlovac: The city of four rivers attracts with lots of greenery and numerous opportunities for water activities.
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Islands and Coastal Towns with a Local Factor, like on Krk
Those who prefer to explore Croatian vacation preferences by the sea will also find plenty of inspiration in the ranking. Croatians particularly often search for the island of Krk, which is no longer an unknown travel destination but is still much more popular among locals than among German tourists. The largest island in the Adriatic combines medieval old towns, hidden coves, hiking trails, and wine towns like Vrbnik in a relatively small area. Thanks to the bridge connection to the mainland, it is also particularly easy to reach.
Other Islands and Coastal Towns from the Ranking
- Rab: Popular for its historic old town and some of Croatia’s rare sandy beaches.
- Vela Luka: Relaxed harbor town on the island of Korčula with a long fishing tradition and numerous bathing coves.
- Orebić: Former seafaring town on the Pelješac Peninsula with beautiful beaches and views of Korčula.
- Cavtat: Often referred to as a quieter alternative to Dubrovnik, with a palm-lined waterfront promenade and historic town center.
- Šimuni: Small island town on Pag, known primarily for its beaches and large marina.
Small Fishing Villages with the Charm of the Old Adriatic
Those who want to sit at the harbor and watch the fishermen return with their catch, rather than jostle through crowded old towns, will find what they’re looking for in the smaller coastal towns of the ranking. Here, a few alleys, small waterfront promenades, and family-run restaurants define the scene. The sea is the same turquoise star as elsewhere on the Adriatic, but the rhythm of daily life is entirely different.
Coastal Towns from the Ranking:
- Pirovac: Former fishing village between Šibenik and Zadar with a historic town center and direct access to the Vransko Jezero Nature Park.
- Srima: Manageable seaside resort near Vodice, with a promenade that runs directly along the sea and offers views of the offshore islands.
- Promajna: Small coastal town on the Makarska Riviera, where pines reach the beach and fishing boats sway alongside bathers in the turquoise water.