Source: CNTB Photo by -Aleksandar Gospic

Cruise News

Couples Are Flocking to Croatia — Here’s What’s New and Why

By John Shallo

February 07, 2026

As Valentine’s Day approaches, Croatia emerges as one of Europe’s most compelling destinations for romance-driven travel, unveiling a new wave of five-star hotels, refined spa experiences, and Michelin-starred dining designed for couples seeking privacy, beauty, and meaningful moments together. From secluded Adriatic islands to historic coastal towns and elegant inland retreats, Croatia’s luxury landscape is evolving to meet the desires of modern romantics.

Luxury Hideaways Made for Two

Croatia’s newest and upcoming luxury hotels are crafted for intimacy—where heritage, design, and location create a natural sense of escape:

Wellness as an Intimate Experience

Wellness is central to Croatia’s romantic appeal, shaped by nature, calm, and a slower rhythm of life. Luxury hotels increasingly feature spa experiences designed for couples, including private treatment rooms, thermal circuits, and sea-view relaxation areas. In regions such as KvarnerZagorje and Međimurje  centuries-old traditions of thermal and mineral waters elevate wellness into a shared ritual where soaking, restoring, and unwinding together becomes an essential part of the romantic journey.

Michelin-Starred Dining for Unforgettable Evenings

Source: CNTB Photo by Maja Danica Pecanic

Romance in Croatia often continues at the table, where fine dining is shaped as much by setting as by cuisine. In Šibenik, couples can dine at Pelegrini, set beside the UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James. In the Kvarner region, Michelin-starred restaurants such as Nebo in Rijeka complement romantic stays with modern, ingredient-driven menus, allowing couples to enjoy exceptional cuisine without leaving the flow of their getaway.

A Year-Round Destination for Romance

Aligned with Croatia’s focus on sustainable, year-round tourism, these romantic experiences extend well beyond Valentine’s Day. Fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and enhanced air connectivity make Croatia an increasingly attractive destination for couples seeking a refined European escape at any time of year.

Whether celebrating Valentine’s Day, a honeymoon, or a meaningful milestone, Croatia offers couples a setting where luxury feels personal, romance feels effortless, and every moment invites connection.