Winter camping in Croatia: ski slopes, Christmas markets, and empty beaches

While many Alpine countries are covered in snow during winter, temperatures in parts of Croatia remain pleasant. The coastal areas, in particular, offer a great escape. While these regions are bustling with tourists in summer, the beaches are wonderfully quiet in winter. Campsites that remain open year-round include Camping Park Soline and Camping Bijela Uvala.

Winter scenes in national parks

If you love nature, winter camping in Croatia is a great idea. Plitvice Lakes National Park and Krka National Park offer enchanting winter landscapes with frozen lakes and snow-covered forests.

Ideal time for a city trip

Visiting a city during the scorching summer months isn’t for everyone. Instead, go in winter when it’s much quieter. In Dubrovnik, you can admire the ancient city walls without having to shuffle through crowds of tourists. Plus, the city hosts a charming winter festival. Split, Zadar, and Pula are also well worth a visit.

During the winter months, larger cities feature cozy Christmas markets where you can enjoy local delicacies, handicrafts, and Croatian holiday traditions. The capital, Zagreb, even boasts one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, while Rijeka offers a wonderfully festive atmosphere in December.

If you love carnival celebrations, Rijeka is the place to be. The festivities have a long history, with many traditions still honored today. The highlight of the carnival is the annual parade, which takes place on the Sunday before Ash Wednesday—March 2 in 2025.

Still hitting the slopes?

Although Croatia isn’t widely known as a winter sports destination, you can definitely go skiing there. Sljeme is the country’s most popular ski area, especially among locals, and is conveniently located near the capital, Zagreb. Bjelolasica, in the Gorski Kotar mountains, was once Croatia’s main ski center. While it has lost some of its former glory, skiing is still possible there. Begovo Razdolje, also in Gorski Kotar, is the highest permanently inhabited village in Croatia. It’s better suited for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing than downhill skiing. Platak, a small-scale ski resort, is ideal for families looking for a relaxed winter sports experience.

Why go winter camping in Croatia?

Do you want something different from wintering in Spain or skiing in Austria? Are you looking for a destination where you won’t be bored during the winter months and where many campsites remain open? Then Croatia might be for you. Whether you’re seeking tranquility, nature, or cultural sights, Croatia has it all during winter.