Photo by Angelique Padres of a Croatian in military dress, showing how they wear the cravat, where our modern-day tie originates from

Croatian Nightlife – The Best

There is no other place that compares to the nightlife in Croatia. The mix of locals and tourists, in a party setting gives a unique experience to converse with people from all over the world. Split, Zagreb, and the islands of Hvar and Trogir stand out as the best.

Photo of Split nightlife along the harbor

In Split there are hundreds of bars and numerous nightclubs filled with people enjoying a vacation. Most of the patrons are American and European students.

Photo of restauants and bars along Split harbor

Photo of Split streets

Video of street musician in Split

The most cultural city to experience nightlife in Croatia is Zagreb. Here, nightlife is enjoyed with mainly Croatians because it is less touristy. I liked this because it gave me the opportunity to engage in conversations with contemporary Croatians, giving me valuable insight about life in their country.

Photo of audience attending comedy night at Sax! nightclub in Zagreb taken by Alex Wilson

Zagreb, being the capital of Croatia, offers more alternative nightlife options that cater to local Croatians, such as the Sax! nightclub which hosts comedy and band nights. Zagreb also has many tourists filled nightclubs, which stay open the latest, such as Club Alcatraz that closes at 4:00 am.

Video of the band, LUCE, taken at Sax! nightclub on 16 May 2024

Club

Alcatraz

Video inside a popular tourist nightclub in Zagreb, Club Alcatraz

The island of Hvar is often called the “party island”. The mixture of blue water, tropical weather, yachts and serene ambiance provide the perfect setting to enjoy the nightlife.

After a day hiking and enjoying the views atop Fort Fortica, the quaint small harbor area is a wonderful place to relax. It is safe and festive, filled with restaurants, bars, and clubs around every alleyway with people dancing and socializing.

Photo of nightlife along the Hvar harbor

Photo of tourists debarking yachts to enjoy Hvar nightlife

Photo of filled back-alley club in Hvar

Trogir, just a 30 minute car-ride from Split is a nightlife must. It hosts more live music venues than other places, except Zagreb. Although in Zagreb the music will likely be sung in Croatian and in Trogir it will be a mixture between English and Croatian.

Video of Croatian band playing at street bar in Trogir

Nightlife in Croatia can be an incredible experience that will enhance your Croatian visit. It is very safe, with extreme intoxication culturally discouraged. This is a wonderful time to get to know other cultures, as well as gleaming a better understanding of the amazing Croatian people and their heritage.