Croatia in July 2025 - Peak Season Travel Tips & Summer Events

July, or Srpanj in Croatian, is part of the peak season for tourists traveling to the beautiful beaches, islands, national parks and historical sights this country has to offer. This month has some of the heaviest visitor traffic so come prepared to deal with more crowds wherever you are. Who can blame them? July in Croatia offers wonderful summer weather along the sea and inland.

Lopar Beach, Rab Island, Festival of Sand Sculptures

Peak summer season begins mid-July and lasts through mid-August. It's busy no matter where you are but places in the south like Dubrovnik, Split and nearby islands to these cities are even more congested this time of year due to cruise ship traffic and visitors from all around the world.

The north coast is also crowded but unlike these cities, mostly has travelers flying or driving in from other parts of Europe, so it does not get as saturated with vacationers and is why we highly recommend you visit the north coast if you are wanting to stay away from typical tourist traps. There are so many festivals to choose from this month. See them all listed below:

Summer is the best time to enjoy the outdoors.

READ: Best Outdoor Activities in Croatia.

Festival of Sand Sculptures - July 1-4th, Lopar

This beachy festival takes place in the town of Lopar on the island of Rab at Paradise Beach. Artists use only sand and water to create their masterpieces and the best sculptures are awarded prizes. A fun sight to see for the whole family.

Vodice Street Festival - July 1-7th, Vodice

Workshops, performances, exhibitions and concerts on Mirka Zora Street, under the bell tower, in Kneza Branimira park and on the Vladimira Nazora waterfront.

Tabor Film Festival - July 4-6th, Desinić

Takes place in the village of Desinić at Tabor Castle with over 150 short films from over 50 countries around the world. Also offfering a music program, workshops, exhibitions, lectures, local food and drinks and a campsite.

Pula Film Festival - July 10-17th, Pula

Takes place at the Pula Arena (Colosseum) and is one of the most visited cultural event in Croatia. A competition of Croatian films with an international program and youth program. Hosting film professionals, film workshops, exhibitions and concerts.

7 Day Itinerary & Map - Istria Food & Drink

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Dubrovnik Summer Festival - July 10-August 25th, Dubrovnik

This is the largest cultural festival in Croatia. Offering a wide variety of performances and events, including music, dance, singing, theatre, film, documentaries, exhibitions and more.

Ultra Europe Music Festival - July 11-13th, Split

Takes place in the city of Split, as well as on the islands of Brač, Hvar and Vis. There are over 250 performers on multiple stages. It is one of the largest music festivals in Europe.

Šibenik Dance Festival - July 14-19th, Šibenik

Takes place at Saint Michael's Fortress, Barone Fortress and other unique locations around the city. Performances are by domestic and international dance companies. Educational workshops and classes are by world-renowned instructors and choreographers.

As a previous professional dancer, this event holds a special place in my heart.

Split Summer Festival - July 14-August 14th, Split

Presenting opera, drama, ballet, concerts, movies, exhibitions, performances and street theatre. Many events take place in the national theatre.

READ: Summer in Croatia

International Folklore Festival - July 16-20th, Zagreb

Showcasing the diversity of Croatian heritage with performances, workshops, presentations, concerts and traditional church singing.

Vodice Jazz and Blues Festival - July 17-19th, Vodice

Musicians from Croatia and other parts of the world perform classics, swing, dixieland, fusion and free jazz in the amphitheater at the waterfront.

Seas Sound Festival - July 17-20th, Martinska

Takes place in the town of Martinska, across the canal from the city of Šibenik. Performing reggae, dub, drum and bass, jungle, ska and punk music by over 50 artists with five stages, free camping, workshops, a record store and bazaar.

Forestland - July 18-20th, Vučetinec and Brezje

Takes place in between the towns of Vučetinec and Brezje, near the city of Čakovec. A music festival held on two stages with over 60 DJs, artists, rappers and singers. They also have food trucks, a zip line and nearby campgrounds.

Plava Laguna Croatia Open Umag - July 19-26th, Umag

One of Croatia's largest tennis tournaments with a nightly live music program and local gourmet cuisine offerings.

Many of the festivals continue throughout the rest of the summer season. You will have a hard time deciding which one to attend or figuring out how you can see them all. Our best tip is go where the locals go and hopefully you will find some relief from the tourist traffic, but wherever you are traveling to in Croatia in July you are sure to be entertained and have an amazing stay.

North Coast Croatia Travel Agency specializes in travel to Croatia and surrounding European countries. Providing consultations, custom itineraries, pre-designed theme itineraries, summer beach rentals and a travel blog. Booking flights, accommodations, cruises, tours, rental cars, transfers, bus/train/ferry tickets, travel insurance and more!

Book a FREE 30 minute Travel Consultation with me to discuss planning your trip to Croatia!