Exploring Croatia with a Toddler: Kastela, Split, and Dubrovnik

Why Croatia?

Croatia is a land of stunning coastlines, rich history, and delicious seafood, making it an ideal destination for families seeking both relaxation and adventure. However, traveling with little ones comes with its unique set of challenges and joys, which we’re excited to share with you.

Day 1–5: Relaxing in Kastela

Kastela, a series of small, picturesque towns along the Adriatic coast, was the perfect base for our family.

What We Loved

• Quiet Beaches: With hardly any tourists, the beaches in Kastela were peaceful retreats. Even though they were pebble beaches, Logan loved playing along the shore, keeping us on our toes to ensure no pebbles ended up in his mouth.
• Historical Strolls: Walking through the quaint streets and visiting Castle Vitturi was a highlight. For just £1, the museum offered an insightful look into the area’s fascinating history.
• Family-Friendly Dining: Every restaurant we visited had kid-friendly options, and playgrounds were well-maintained, making it an easy choice for families with young kids.

Practical Tip

Staying in Kastela allowed us to enjoy a quieter retreat while still being just a short 20-minute drive or taxi ride from Split.

Day 6–7: History in Split

Split is famous for its vibrant atmosphere and historical landmarks, though it’s worth noting that the city has a strong party-town vibe, making shorter family visits ideal.

Must-See Attractions

• Diocletian’s Palace and Catacombs: These incredible historical sites were both awe-inspiring and stroller-accessible, though we recommend bringing a carrier for more flexibility.
• Food and Culture: The city’s dining scene offered plenty of options, though changing facilities were sparse. Be prepared to change nappies in a stroller if needed.

Quick Tip

Split can get busy during peak hours, so plan visits to landmarks early in the day for a more relaxed experience.

Day 8–12: Discovering Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," truly lived up to its reputation with its fully preserved medieval Old Town and spectacular views.

Highlights

• Old Town Adventures: Exploring the car-free, cobbled streets of Old Town was a magical experience, though navigating with a stroller proved challenging. We relied on a carrier for Logan, especially when climbing the famous city walls.
• Lapad for Families: Staying in the Lapad area gave us the perfect blend of tranquility and proximity to Old Town. The nearby hiking trail and (slightly weathered) Sunset Beach were also worth visiting.

Transportation Tips

Traveling to Dubrovnik via the 6-hour Katamaran ferry from Split was surprisingly family-friendly. Logan loved the freedom to roam the ferry and even made some friends along the way!

Practical Tips for Traveling to Croatia with Kids

1. Pack Smart: Bring a lightweight stroller for cities like Split and Kastela and a carrier for Dubrovnik’s steep stairs.
2. Accommodations: Many hotels offer complimentary travel cots if requested in advance.
3. Plan Your Meals: Croatian seafood is a must-try, but you’ll also find plenty of western dining options to please picky eaters.

Final Thoughts

Our trip to Croatia was a perfect mix of relaxation, history, and adventure. From the quiet charm of Kastela to the bustling streets of Split and the medieval allure of Dubrovnik, this country offers something for every family. While there were challenges—like stroller navigation and pebble beaches—the friendly locals, delicious food, and incredible sights more than made up for it.

Pro Tip: Take your time exploring and stay flexible—Croatia’s magic lies in its ability to surprise you at every turn!