Christmas markets in Croatia: Zagreb, Dubrovnik, Split and Opatija
We usually think of Croatia in summer, but in December it shows two very different Christmas faces: a big festival in the capital Zagreb and a calm, sunny Christmas by the Adriatic. For other countries, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
When and how to go
- Season: Advent in Zagreb runs from 28 November 2026 to 7 January 2027. The coastal towns hold their festive programmes through December.
- Getting there: Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik are reached by connecting flights. By car, Zagreb is about 9–10 hours from Sofia via Serbia.
- Documents and money: Croatia is in the EU and Schengen – Bulgarian citizens travel with an ID card. The currency is the euro.
Zagreb
Advent in Zagreb is famous throughout Europe. Instead of one big market, the whole centre becomes a festival, with each area having its own theme, decorations and entertainment.
Christmas markets
- Zrinjevac Park – one of the most beautiful, with its historic pavilion, decorated trees and countless lights, Croatian crafts, sweets and mulled wine.
- King Tomislav Square – with a large ice rink, one of the most popular winter attractions.
- Ban Jelačić Square – the main square, with concerts and festive events.
- Fuliranje – a more modern festival with interesting street food, music and cocktails.
What else to see
The Upper Town with its narrow streets and St Mark's Church with its tiled roof showing the coats of arms of Zagreb and Croatia, one of the shortest funiculars in the world, the Museum of Broken Relationships – one of Europe's most unusual, and Dolac Market.
What to eat
Štrukli – a cheese pastry dish, fritule – small fried doughnuts, and kremšnita with custard and puff pastry.
Dubrovnik
The "Pearl of the Adriatic" has no summer crowds in winter, and the Christmas decorations on the stone Stradun create a beautiful contrast.
Christmas markets
- Winter festival on the Stradun – stalls with food, drinks and souvenirs along the old town's main street.
- Luža Square – by St Blaise's Church, with concerts and festive events.
What else to see
A walk along the city walls with views of the sea and roofs, Lovrijenac Fortress, the Rector's Palace – a legacy of the independent Republic of Ragusa, and Mount Srđ with its cable car, when running. Game of Thrones fans will recognise many places.
Split
The heart of Split is built inside the palace of the Roman emperor Diocletian. In winter the city is calm, and the mild weather allows walks by the sea.
Christmas markets
- Advent on the Riva – the main festive area along the waterfront, with stalls, music and food.
- Pjaca and Prokurative squares – festive decorations, local produce and concerts.
What else to see
UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, the Cathedral of St Domnius and its bell tower, Marjan Hill, the Meštrović Gallery and the green market.
What to eat
Dalmatian prosciutto, seafood and soparnik – a savoury chard pie.
Opatija
An elegant Austro-Hungarian era resort, once a favourite of the aristocracy – and one of Croatia's most underrated winter destinations.
Christmas markets
- Advent in Opatija – a festive programme across the centre and seafront, with a small market, lights in Angiolina Park and an ice rink.
What else to see
The Lungomare seaside promenade, Villa and Park Angiolina with its exotic plants, the Maiden with the Seagull statue – the town's symbol, and the historic Hotel Kvarner.
Tip: if you don't like the cold, coastal Croatia is an excellent choice – in December Split and Dubrovnik are often above 10 degrees, and the cafés on the Riva stay open all winter.
Dates are based on information available in November 2026 and may change – check the city's website before you travel.
Need help planning?
The Clio Travel team will help you choose between Zagreb and the coast, with the right flights, hotels and transfers. For more ideas, see our guide to Christmas markets in Europe.
