Dubrovnik is full of bus tour offers (even in October). Therefore, this time is favorable for visiting the most remote historical sites and attractions. Moreover, autumn is a very advantageous time for renting accommodation, when apartment prices in Croatia drop by 20-30% compared to the summer season.
In the last 10 years, Croatia has gone from a more affordable alternative to Italy to one of the most popular summer destinations. In this article, we will introduce you to lesser-visited corners of the Dalmatian coast, where warm weather lasts until the end of autumn, and deserted beaches are ideal for a family or romantic vacation.
Elaphiti Islands
The local aristocracy would leave Dubrovnik for the weekends back in the 17th century, heading to these islands. On the tiniest island, with an area of less than five square kilometers, 200 people live. Here there is an old ivory-colored harbor, faded noble mansions, and slender palm trees. Essentially, on the Elaphiti Islands there is nothing to do but read under the warm rays of the autumn sun or explore narrow paths, picking juicy wild figs along the way. But how valuable is this solitude and connection with nature after the rhythm of the metropolis!
Island of Vis
The island of Vis (Central Dalmatia), washed by the purest sea water, is located just 90 minutes by catamaran from Split. There is a lot of resort real estate for rent, so you can rent an apartment in Split and travel to the island from there. On the island, traces of peoples who lived here in the past remain: Greek and Roman mosaics, Venetian houses in Komiža, half-ruined forts among pine forests built by the Austrians and British. The island of Vis can be compared to Capri, only without the tourist crowds: the majestic Mount Hum and the coastline indented with tiny coves.
Island of Mljet
October is an excellent month to visit Mljet: average temperature is +21°C, which is ideal for a walk on the island, which is protected by the World Wildlife Fund. Its entire northern part is a National Park, and 90 minutes by ferry from Dubrovnik is the island of Aleppo with pine and oak groves. It was praised by Homer in the Odyssey. You can get a map at the information office and go hiking: on the hills where fragrant coniferous trees grow, a stunning panorama of the silvery-blue Adriatic Sea opens up. Descending to the port, you may not meet a single passerby, except for occasional park rangers and perhaps a couple of mongooses – these animals were introduced here in 1800 to eradicate snakes.
Istria Peninsula
The Romans knew Istria (Southern Dalmatia) as the 'Magical Land', and Europeans today have dubbed it 'New Tuscany'. This peninsula is an hour's drive from Trieste. The town of Motovun is full of medieval charm, and the incredibly picturesque village of Grožnjan is popular among artists for its colorful houses and streets. Here you can discover medieval frescoes in the churches of Beram and Draguć, as well as local cuisine: during harvest time, dishes with fresh truffles appear on every menu.
Island of Pag
Pag in Northern Dalmatia is a real surprise for travelers. The soft pink hills and seascapes of this quiet magical island leave completely unique impressions. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge and is located only 70 km north of Zadar. Autumn here is dramatically different from the summer months: in summer, thousands of tourists flock here, and the beach resembles Ibiza. Here you can get acquainted with local crafts: lace making and salt mining. In October, locals return to a quiet, measured life.
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