Curled up along the Adriatic Sea’s eastern coast, Croatia is a lovely destination that’s quickly gaining a reputation as one of Europe’s best thanks to its beautiful landscapes, stunning islands, and rich culture.
Croatian villa rentals let you experience the best of this beautiful country by taking you off the beaten track and giving you a chance to indulge in the kind of privacy and luxury that may not be available to you at a hotel.
Croatia itself is home to numerous regions, so the first step in choosing a villa rental in Croatia is to decide where exactly you want to visit.
Along the southern coast, Croatia’s most famous destination, Dubrovnik, is regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval cities (in fact, it’s so well maintained it was used as the site for King’s Landing on HBO’s Game of Thrones).
Split, meanwhile, is a perennial favourite among those who want to experience stunning medieval architecture, rich history, and vibrant nightlife, while also making for an excellent gateway to the Dalmatian islands.
The most popular of the Dalmatian islands is Hvar, which consistently ranks atop lists of best tourist destinations thanks to its beautiful landscapes, gorgeous beaches, and rich heritage as a Venetian trading port.
Other popular options include Brac, the largest of the Dalmatian islands; Korcula, an island further south near Dubrovnik, well known for its secluded bays; and Istria on the northern coast, which straddles Italian and Croatian culture.
Once you have an approximate idea of where you want to visit (and even if you don’t), your Rental Escapes reservations specialist can present you with the best available villa options for your party and travel dates.
The history of luxury villas in Croatia dates back to the Romans, with the ruins of Roman villas still standing on the Istrian coast, and continues through to the Middle Ages when Dubrovnik became a centre of wealth and power.
Today, luxury Croatian villas maintain this rich heritage by offering you the very best accommodation in private, pristine settings – only now with modern amenities and technologies.
Most luxury villas in Croatia are also fully staffed and include housekeeping and often chef and butler service as well. All of our Croatian villas are also independently owned and constructed, giving each villa a unique sense of character.
Luxury villas in Croatia can be found all along the country, but the country’s three most popular destinations – Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar – are home to some of its best.
Renowned for its medieval architecture, Dubrovnik is Croatia's most popular destination and a UNESCO world heritage site. Villas in Dubrovnik offer a welcome refuge from the crowds of tourists that flock to this legendary port city year after year.
Some of the best villas in Dubrovnik include:
Dubrovnik Cardinale: Just 10 minutes from the Old Town you’ll find Dubrovnik Cardinale, a contemporary and stylish 5-bedroom villa that offers unparalleled views of the deep blue waters of the Adriatic, as well as plenty of fine details around every corner; whether that’s the artwork scattered throughout, the jade onyx in the bathrooms or the private pier that lets you enjoy your own little slice of the Adriatic.
L'Essenza di Dubrovnik: Easily one of Dubrovnik’s best villas, L’essenza di Dubrovnik is a modernist masterpiece perched atop a cliff overlooking the sea, right above its own private beach. With features like floor-to-ceiling windows, a glass-lined alfresco dining area overlooking the city, a beautiful infinity pool, and the highest quality materials throughout, it perfectly harmonizes its appreciation of nature and luxury.
Exclusive Dubrovnik: Spread out over 5 floors and 500 metres you’ll find Exclusive Dubrovnik, a beautiful Croatian villa brimming with surprises that make it a true luxury retreat from the city. These include an exotic garden, a billiard and cigar room, an outdoor and an indoor swimming pool, and a separate apartment annex, all connected with imaginative detail. A perfect complement to the enchantment of Dubrovnik.
Though a beautiful example of a medieval city in its own right, Split offers a more authentic Croatian experience when compared to the more touristy Dubrovnik, as well as legendary nightlife. Villas in Split give you the chance to enjoy the beauty of your surroundings in privacy, as well as easily access the nearby Dalmatian islands.
Some of the best villas in Split include:
Villa Spalato Exclusive: Constructed over 100 years ago, Villa Spalato Exclusive remains an ideal retreat near the heart of Split. From its stunning Mediterranean landscaping encircling its large pool to its rich materials and furnishings, everything about this villa evokes a sense of style and grace that perfectly reflects the spirit of the Dalmatian coast.
Villa Primosten: Overlooking the Adriatic with 7 bedrooms spread out over 3 connected apartments, Villa Primosten is an ideal choice for groups travelling together who want additional privacy. The al fresco dining room, open living areas, and private pool make for the perfect rendezvous points.
Villa Venere: Nestled along a cliff on the Split Riviera you’ll find Villa Venere, a contemporary 5-bedroom villa with a saltwater pool, a magnificent floor-to-ceiling fireplace, and so much more. A stylish, seafront, and sophisticated way to enjoy Split.
The quintessential Dalmatian Island, Hvar calls out to travellers with its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and charming villages. As befits such gorgeous surroundings, Hvar luxury villas are usually cliffside and give you the chance to appreciate views of the beautiful Adriatic and the nearby islands.
Top luxury villas in Hvar include:
Eternal Hvar West: Along with its sister villa Eternal Hvar East, Eternal Hvar West is situated just 10 minutes by foot from the centre of Hvar Town, while still being secluded enough to afford beautiful views and private beach access. Coupled with modern amenities and fine attention to detail, it’s one of the most luxurious options in the Dalmatians.
Adriatic Sunset: Terraced over three levels, surrounded by lush Mediterranean landscaping, and gazing out over the Adriatic, Adriatic Sunset lives up to its name by offering unforgettable moments by the sea. Relax by the private pool, exercise in the outdoor gym, or retire to the well-appointed interior – this villa will rejuvenate you at every turn.
Sunset Hvar: With its open design and its Mediterranean architecture, Sunset Hvar is an elevated take on the quintessential Dalmatian beach house. The villa is oriented towards the panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, which extend 180° across the villa and are visible from 6 of the 7 bedrooms. A great choice for large families travelling together.
While previously you had to show your passport when entering from the Schengen area, Croatia joined the Schengen area on January 1, 2023, meaning a passport is no longer required to be shown when entering from other Schengen countries. That said, visitors from outside the Schengen area (such as from the US and Canada) will need to show a valid passport when entering.
If you’re flying into Croatia, then you’ll most likely be landing in Zagreb Airport, Split Airport, or Dubrovnik Airport. Each is well-serviced, with Zagreb being the largest and Dubrovnik the smallest.
From there, you can get around the country by car, train, or boat. Renting a car is a very popular option for those who want to explore the Dalmatian coast, especially since trains don’t run along the coast. If you prefer not to drive yourself, buses and private drivers (as well as rental cars) can also be arranged by your Rental Escapes concierge.
If you want to explore the Dalmatian islands, you’ll need to travel by boat. Ferries are the most popular way of reaching these islands, with the country’s major car ferry operator, Jadrolinija, servicing the majority of islands.
Your Rental Escapes concierge can also arrange a boat charter if you want a more personalized tour of the islands.
Croatia’s high season is the summer from June-September, which is when you’ll find the best weather, but also the most crowds. If you’re travelling to Croatia to enjoy the beaches and sunlight, though, then this is the time to go.
If you want a more balanced trip or are more focussed on sightseeing overall, then shoulder season in late spring and early autumn is definitely recommended. The crowds will be significantly fewer, the weather and sights just as beautiful, and you can find great deals on Croatian villa rentals. The Adriatic may also still be warm enough to swim in, especially in May.
Sail the Adriatic: Croatia’s Adriatic coast is home to over 1,000 islands, while its azure waters are the stuff of legends. There’s no better way to experience it firsthand than with a sailing charter – your captain is sure to know all the top sights, as well as some hidden gems.
Explore the national parks: From the stunning waterfalls of Plitvice National Park and Krka National Park to the untouched beauty of the Kornati archipelago, Croatia is home to some of Europe’s best national parks. Exploring at least some is an absolute must for any nature lover.
Get lost in the architecture: For many, Croatia’s medieval architecture is the primary reason to visit. Exploring cities like Dubrovnik and Split by foot lets you discover just how enchanting this architecture can make a city.
Croatian cuisine is a mix of influences and depends partly on where you visit. While food near the capital Zagreb tends to be heavier and is more influenced by Central European cuisine, food along the coast tends to take more Mediterranean inspiration.
Istria, in particular, is heavily influenced by Italian cuisine, while along the Dalmatian coast, fresh seafood, particularly grilled fish, is the order of the day.
Your Rental Escapes concierge can provide restaurant recommendations and reservations and also arrange private chef service and villa pre-stocking so that your favourite foods are always available.
Croatia’s weather varies slightly by location. The coastal region tends to have the best weather, with average temperatures varying between 26°C - 30°C (79°F - 86°F) in the summer. Summers are also usually quite clear, leading to plenty of great sunshine and very little precipitation overall.
Spring, meanwhile, sees average temperatures hover around 23°C (73.4°F), while fall sees temperatures drop to about 18°C (64.4°F). Rain also peaks from late September to Early May, with a 22% chance of seeing a wet day in coastal cities like Split.
The winter months, lastly, can get quite cold, with temperatures averaging only 7°C (44.6°F) on the coast.
Rental Escapes can elevate your Croatian villa rental into a true luxury experience if you want to enjoy the best of this beautiful country.
Our portfolio includes the finest villa rentals in Croatia, including luxury vacation rentals in Dubrovnik, Split, Hvar, and more.
Your Rental Escapes reservation expert can find the best villa for your group, and your concierge personalizes your trip to create the ultimate Croatian luxury villa experience.
Contact us today to book your next dream holiday!
Everywhere > Europe > Croatia
Luxury Villa Rentals for 2+ people
