Croatia Cruises

Croatia holidays are great at any time of year, thanks to continual sunshine and pleasant coastal temperatures. Hop on a cruise to Croatia during shoulder seasons in spring and autumn to experience the country's attractions without the crowds and in manageably moderate climes. The best time for Croatia cruises, though, is undoubtedly the summer. Enjoy beautiful weather while you explore waterfalls, wander historic cities, and snorkel and sunbathe on idyllic beaches.

Croatia has a typical Mediterranean climate, meaning summers are hot and sunny, while winters are mild and wet. Many of our cruises to Croatia take place between June and August, when the country sees a daily minimum of 12 hours of sunshine and average temperatures are in the mid-20s. Autumn and spring are still perfect for holidays in Croatia if you're exploring the country's coastal regions, since the temperature remains warm in these areas. Expect rainfall from October, however, with the wettest month being November.

Our Croatia cruises stop at five different ports, each with its own character and allure. Šibenik is a great starting point for a visit to the beautiful Krka National Park, while Zadar has plenty of historical sites to explore - as does Rijeka, with its semi-ruined 13th-century fortress Trsat Castle. If history's not your thing, you can go wine-tasting on the nearby island of Krk instead. Split is known for its UNESCO-listed Roman palace, while Dubrovnik has spectacular city walls, Game of Thrones filming locations and elegant limestone streets. All five ports are must-visits on any Croatia holidays.

Whether you're splashing out or holidaying on a budget, MSC Cruises has an itinerary for you. Find the one that suits you best by checking out our Croatia cruise deals.

What you need to pack for a cruise to Croatia will vary slightly depending on the time of year. Hot summer weather calls for loose clothes in breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen. These will also be suitable during spring and into early autumn, but it's a good idea to bring some light layers, a thin jacket and - come October - a rain coat or umbrella. Winter gets a little colder so make sure to bring warmer layers, long trousers and a light coat. Swimwear is a must if you're planning to explore the country's picturesque beaches and clear waters, while comfortable walking shoes are essential all year round.

Croatia has used the euro since January 2023. Before that, the official currency was the kuna (kn).

Croatia is on Central European Time (CET) but observes Daylight Saving Time from the last Sunday in March until the last Sunday in October. That means that when you go on your holidays to Croatia, you'll be one hour ahead of the UK.

Our Croatia cruises may include stops in other Mediterranean countries, such as Italy, where you can enjoy the ancient wonders and high fashion of Rome or Greece, where blissful beaches and island life await in hotspots such as Corfu and Mykonos. Other Mediterranean stop-offs on Croatia voyages include Montenegro's achingly gorgeous Kotor and Malta's compact but bewitching capital, Valletta.

Your Croatia cruise departs from Venice, Italy. This historic Italian city provides the perfect starting point for your adventure, not least because Venetian influence can still be clearly seen throughout parts of Croatia (particularly its coastal regions, including Dalmatia). For example, risotto - a favourite Venetian dish - is widely served throughout these areas, and you'll also see Venetian architectural leanings (particularly Gothic-styled design) present in some buildings around these coastal areas.

Over the years, Croatia has become widely known and loved for its wild rocky beaches kissed by peerlessly clear waters, varied islands, majestic waterfalls and historic cities - not forgetting its winemaking culture and gastronomy. Despite not being the capital, Dubrovnik is Croatia's most-visited city, thanks to its well-preserved historic landmarks and waterside location. Its reputation and allure have also been boosted further since the city was featured in the globally acclaimed TV series Game of Thrones. The centuries-old city of Split is also popular for its historical sites and handy location. Both cities are must-visits on all holidays in Croatia. Come summer, visitors head to Croatia for its islands - 78 in total, 49 of which are inhabited. Each has its own character: Hvar, for instance, is a party spot, while Mljet is all about nature. Many islands grow their own grapes and fresh produce, making them the ideal places to sample local flavours. Korčula, for example, produces the dry white wine Pošip, while Hvar is home to the oldest Plavac Mali vineyard. The country's national parks, with waterfalls and serene lakes, shouldn't be missed. Visit them with excursions offered on our Croatia cruises.