I have handpicked the following selection of Croatia's best hotels relying on superb and verified visitor reviews, a great location, high-quality amenities and, in some cases, my personal experience. Most are five-star hotels with a few outstanding four-star hotels added when warranted. In each one you can expect free wifi, a friendly, professional and multilingual staff, private parking and first-class restaurants. Most have a spa or wellness center as well.

Best Hotels in Zagreb

 

The Esplanade Zagreb*****
Built in 1925 to lodge the ritzy passengers on the Orient Express, this Art Deco marvel could serve as a backdrop for the next James Bond film. Everything is first rate from the excellent hotel restaurant (Zinfandel) to the eye-popping and spacious rooms. The location next to the train station is perfect for a leisurely stroll to Zagreb's central square and the fitness center will keep you in shape. The Esplanade is also the first and only certified gluten-free hotel in Croatia. Get the best rates.

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Best Hotels in Istria

Rovinj

Hotel Monte Mulini *****
This spa resort was the first five-star hotel in Istria and it continues to set the standard for luxury. Located on a private beach and in the midst of a nature park, the hotel is just a short and relaxing stroll to central Rovinj. The rooms are stunningly designed and all come with balconies overlooking either the sea, garden or pool. Get the best rates.

 

Hotel Lone *****
Of course there are all the amenities of a top-notch hotel including attentive service, an indoor pool and spa center but what really sets Hotel Lone apart is the incredible architecture that showcases the best of Croatian design. At once comfortable and gorgeous, the hotel's interior and exterior are truly unique. And, it's only a short walk to the beach and the town center. Need more? Check out my full review here. Get the best rates.

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Savudrija

Kempinski Hotel Adriatic Croatia*****
In Savudrija, on the northwestern tip of Istria, this spa-hotel is on its own private beach offering spectacular offshore views. With two excellent restaurants, spa facilities and three pools (two outdoors and one indoors) you may find it pointless to ever leave. Golfers will love the 18-hole golf-course, a rarity in Croatia. Get the best rates.

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Novigrad

This new four-star hotel is punching above its weight, offering first-class design and amenities in a central location. The floor-to-ceiling windows open onto balconies and the beach is nearby. Watch the sunset from the beachside bar or rent a bike to get around town. Get the best rates.

Best Hotels in Kvarner

Opatija

Hotel Bevanda Relais & Chateau *****
This boutique hotel has only 17 impeccably-designed rooms, perfect for peace and quiet. The sea views are soothing and the hotel restaurant is excellent. Sip a cocktail on your private terrace or join in the discreet nighttime entertainment in the hotel bar. Get the best rates.

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Mali Losinj

This outstanding hotel will cure what ails you in one of Croatia's best spas. Anti-stress, rejuvenation, cleansing, toning, therapeutic massages, holistic treatments--you'll leave a better and healthier person. Surrounded by pines and close to the beach, even the location is healthy. Get the best rates.

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Best Hotels in Zadar

This vast resort takes up nearly the entire Punta Skala peninsula, 12km from Zadar. There's little you can't do here. Start in the 6000 sq metre spa and then head to the watersports centre for snorkelling or windsurfing. Enjoy a fine meal in the hotel restaurant and then perhaps a nightcap in the cosy lounge. Get the best rates.

Art Hotel Kalelarga ****
This boutique hotel provides the highest standards of comfort and service right in central Zadar. You're only steps from Zadar's many historic attractions as well as the town's outstanding nightlife. Plus, the hotel restaurant is the best in Zadar. Get the best rates.

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Best Hotels in Dalmatia

Split

Hotel Park Split *****
This venerable hotel was completely overhauled in 2015 and is now the best in Split for location, service and amenities. Near popular Bacvice beach and in a calm, wooded area, the Hotel Park is nevertheless only a short stroll to Split's ferry harbour and bus station. Get the best rates.

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Sibenik

Heritage Hotel Life Palace ****
It's a brand-new hotel but the decor has the lush feel of another century. Located in a baroque building, the romantic decor will set you dreaming but the amenities are thoroughly modern. The rooftop terrace provides a birds-eye view of Sibenik’s old town. Get the best rates.

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Hvar

Renowned for its Sensori Spa, this cushy hotel is class all the way and is the best hotel in Hvar. From the fine restaurant to the sky bar and rooftop pool, everything is chic and beautifully designed. It's Croatia's only entry in the Leading Small Hotels of the World group. Get the best rates.

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Korcula

Aparthotel Lesic Dimitri *****

In Korcula's only five-star establishment you get the comfort and service of a hotel with the amenities and convenience of an apartment. Decorated with an eye to Marco Polo's travel, the furniture is hand-crafted and the design exquisite. There are one, two and three-bedroom apartments. Get the best rates.

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Dubrovnik

Villa Dubrovnik *****
Clinging to a cliff that juts into the Adriatic, the unparalleled views make the Villa Dubrovnik the most romantic hotel in Dubrovnik. The architecture seems to capture the sea and sky and bring it into the splendidly appointed rooms. Some rooms have private jacuzzis but, if not, the wellness center is there for the ultimate in pampering. The indoor pool makes the hotel the ultimate Adriatic experience even in winter and the two restaurants are first- rate. Get the best rates.

Hotel Bellevue ******
The incredibly spacious rooms provide every comfort you could imagine and some you couldn't. The sea views from the rooms and nearly every corner of the hotel are unforgettable and it's only a short walk to Dubrovnik's old town. The indoor pool is splendid, the hotel restaurants provide a variety of different cuisines and there's a private beach. Get the best rates.

Housed in an 18th-century villa belonging to the aristocratic Orsula family, this hotel is set in the midst of cool and relaxing gardens. From the spa to the private beach, prepare to be pampered. The views of Dubrovnik's Old Town are stunning and it's only a short walk away. Get the best rates.

The Pucic Palace *****
In a traditional baroque building overlooking Dubrovnik's most beautiful square is this ultra swanky boutique hotel. The interior melds cutting edge contemporary design with the high ceilings and spaciousness that characterize old Dubrovnik. Get the best rates.

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