July is peak season: hot, sunny and busy. At 24 to 26 °C the sea is lovely and warm, and prices are at their highest.
Sea 24 to 26 °C · temperature 19 to 26 °C · sun 9 to 12 h a day
Good swimming weather (sea 21 °C or warmer) in Hvar, Korčula, Rovinj, Pula, Rijeka, Zadar, Dubrovnik and Split.
The sunniest island in the Adriatic, with lavender fields and a lively harbour. For quiet, head to Stari Grad and Jelsa.
A medieval town laid out like a fishbone, surrounded by vineyards of grk and pošip. Local tradition claims it as Marco Polo's birthplace.
Pastel houses on an Istrian peninsula, crowned by the church of St Euphemia. Pair it with truffles and olive oil from the hinterland.
Local festivals and traditions worth planning your trip around.
Late June or early July, around the lavender harvest
Velo Grablje, an almost deserted village in the hills above Hvar Town, was once the centre of lavender growing on the island. Every summer the village celebrates the harvest with music, local food and lavender products from nearby farmers.
Several times a week in summer; gala performance on 29 July
A sword dance that has been performed in Korčula Town for centuries. Two kings and their armies fight over Princess Bula, with real swords that send sparks flying. Performances are in the evening. On 29 July, the Feast of St Theodore and the town's day, there is a gala performance.
Every year in July, for about a week
Croatia's oldest film festival, running since 1954. In the evening the films are shown in the Roman Arena, under the stars, with room for thousands of viewers. There are also screenings at other venues around town.
Around the full moon in late July or early August
On the Riva the street lights are switched off and only torches and candles burn. Lit-up boats along the quay serve local dishes and fresh fish, and stalls sell regional products. With music and folklore, a few minutes' walk from the Sea Organ.
Every year from 10 July to 25 August
Next: Saturday, 10 July 2027
More than six weeks of theatre, classical music, opera and dance at open-air venues in the old town, such as Fort Lovrijenac and the Rector's Palace. The festival has run since 1950 and always opens with the raising of the Libertas flag in front of St Blaise's Church.
Dates and programmes can change from year to year. Check the official website shortly before you travel.
| Destination | Temp. | Sea | Sun | Rain | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hvar | 25° | 25° lovely | 12 h | 4 | Busy | High |
| Korčula | 25° | 25° lovely | 12 h | 4 | Busy | High |
| Rovinj | 23° | 25° lovely | 11 h | 6 | Busy | High |
| Pula | 23° | 25° lovely | 11 h | 6 | Busy | High |
| Rijeka | 24° | 25° lovely | 10 h | 9 | Moderate | Medium |
| Zadar | 25° | 25° lovely | 12 h | 5 | Busy | High |
| Dubrovnik | 25° | 26° lovely | 11 h | 4 | Busy | High |
| Split | 26° | 24° lovely | 11 h | 5 | Busy | High |
| Zagreb | 22° | – | 9 h | 11 | Moderate | Medium |
| Plitvice | 19° | – | 10 h | 8 | Busy | High |
Temperature is the average over day and night; during the day it is a few degrees warmer. Crowds and prices are an estimate.