Looking for a beautiful Christmas market? Then go beyond Germany and experience an enchanting Christmas in Croatia. Croatia guarantees a magical experience with the best European Christmas market, a real winter wonderland and a real winter festival.
When we think of Christmas markets, we quickly think of Germany, but it is really the Christmas market in the Croatian capital Zagreb that has been selected for three years in a row via the online poll of European Best Destinations. has been voted the best Christmas market in Europe. From November 30, 2019 to January 7, 2020 there is a magical atmosphere in the entire city. From skating on enchanting squares and enjoying Christmas classics in old film studios, to strolling past Christmas stalls and trying a Christmas waltz. Christmas lovers of all ages can indulge themselves in Zagreb. Spread all over the city, Advent is a feast for the senses. With amazing 3D light shows, a great selection of festive food and drink stalls and live choirs and concerts, the fairytale setting has something to offer every visitor. And do you think that the Christmas market in Zagreb is the only experience during the Advent period in Croatia? Nothing could be further from the truth:the whole country is full of magic during the holidays!
Known as a great city break destination, Dubrovnik will come as a surprise to many once the summer crowds have abated and the Winter Festival kicks off. The beautifully decorated old town offers visitors a diverse program full of culture, gastronomy, fun, art and music. At the cozy Christmas market you will find original handmade gifts and traditional Croatian Christmas desserts. Other highlights include the Cod Fishing Days. These pay tribute to the Croatian winter tradition of eating cod at Christmas. Performances and free concerts by the Dubrovnik Symphony Orchestra and the ceremonial lighting of the first Advent candle are also highlights. The little ones can enjoy Christmas fairy tales in the Bursa theater. or let them skate on the ice rink. This year the festival will take place from November 30, 2019 to January 1, 2020. The ancient medieval architecture in Dubrovnik is the perfect backdrop for the Winter Festival. Throughout the period there are open-air food and beverage outlets, souvenir stalls, concerts and festive events.
Surrounded by the snowy mountains, Split is a beautiful city to visit on a clear winter's day. The winding, cobbled streets lined with market stalls and quirky shops perfect for Christmas shopping are easy to explore on foot with the whole family. On both the Pjaca and Prokurative square, visitors can enjoy the range of street food. This is combined with an entertainment program featuring local and international artists, which continues into the late hours. Also at the turn of the year, Split is a great place for travelers to see. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to attend the open air concert. Experience for yourself how great Croatian musicians welcome the new year.
The Salaj family lives in the picturesque village of Grabovnica in the municipality of Čazma. With some five million Christmas lights, they have without a doubt the most decorated house and yard in all of Croatia. Fireworks, music performances, a nativity scene and a manger complete the picture. Homemade snacks and souvenirs are provided. From November 29, 2019 to January 12, 2020, visitors are welcome every day between 3 pm and 10 pm in their enchanting 15-hectare yard.
Croatia is home to spectacular scenery, including the Plitvice Lakes. These are at least as beautiful in winter as in summer. In winter, the cold and snowfall transform the waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes into an enchanting Christmas landscape. The surrounding greenery is shrouded in white blankets and the winding walkway takes you around beautiful waterholes and through alleyways lined with snow-covered trees. The lakes are easily accessible from Zagreb or Split. A perfect day trip for those who want to escape the city and explore the natural beauty of Croatia during their winter vacation! To make sure you get in, buy your tickets online in advance.
Have you ever been to Croatia for Christmas?
