Croatia is one of the world’s most romantic destinations, making it a perfect place to propose to the love of your life! Those seeking to pop the question can choose an idyllic island, on board a sailing ship, or at one of the gorgeous beaches in the Adriatic. And since the country is also famous for its wine, you’ll find trendy bars and restaurants to share a toast and celebrate this new chapter of your life!
Here are five incredible places to propose in Croatia:
1. The Harbour of Hvar, Hvar Island
Sophisticated, vibrant, and lively, Hvar is an island beloved by celebrities. It’s one of Croatia’s best nightlife spots, home to fantastic bars and nightclubs. But away from the city centre, you’ll find more peaceful spots for an intimate wedding proposal.
The Harbour of Hvar makes for a perfect setting for a marriage proposal. Surrounded by picturesque views, the harbour has a great collection of restaurants, cafes, bars, and lush parks where you can pop the question. You can also take a boat from the harbour to visit the nearby Pakleni Islands off the coast of Hvar Town. When you get to the island, you’ll find a quiet beach to spend some romantic moments before asking for your partner’s hand in marriage.
Many great restaurants in Hvar are ideal for a marriage proposal. For instance, you can propose over dinner at Gariful, a modern restaurant sitting at the end of a waterfront with views of the harbour and the Pakleni islands.
2. Marjan Park, Split
If your partner is a nature lover, bring them to the Marjan Forest Park in Split. The green oasis is one of Croatia’s hidden gems and where you can enjoy nature in peace and serenity. Marjan used to be a residence of monks and is now a popular spot for locals who love hiking the outdoors.
Consider taking a long hike into the park and descend to Kašjuni beach, a quiet beach where you can get down on one knee to pop the question. If hiking is not your thing, you can go cycling if your partner is up for it. Marjan is an ideal location for those who love to explore on two wheels, whether road cycling or mountain biking. As you cycle into the woods, look for a quiet spot where you can propose.
Another scenic spot to propose is on top of the Marjan hill known as Telegrin. To get here, take the Marjan Stairs, which you’ll find beside the monastery of St. Francis on Riva. It could take around half an hour to get to the top. There’s a viewpoint along the way called Vidilica, which overlooks the panoramic view of Split and is also an ideal setting to propose. There are also many rental villas in the Split region, the perfect place to stay for a little seclusion.
3. Korcula Old Town, Korcula Island
Korcula is gorgeous, oozing with romance and is one of Croatia’s favoured islands – with good reason too! So, if you’re looking for that perfect place to propose in Croatia, head to Korcula. Set halfway between Split and Dubrovnik, Korcula boasts stunning scenery and a picturesque Old Town that still has its authentic charm.
The Old Town of Korcula is a medieval walled city featuring Venetian architecture dating back to early 1900. Admire the historical building as you stroll hand in hand in its main street, which divides the Old Town, running from north to south. Plan your proposal at the top of the small hill called Forteca, which has an old tower and offers panoramic views of the Old Town. Getting to the top requires a pretty easy hike from the town. On your way back, marvel at the beautiful houses with ornate walls lining Put Svetog Nikole street.
A unique way to propose is to rent a kayak boat. Paddle around the shore of the old town and pop the question with the vast ocean in the background. After your romantic proposal, explore the Old Town’s beautiful palaces, museums, and churches.
4. Zlatni Rat Beach, Brac Island
For a romantic beach proposal in Croatia, the best place is the country’s most famous beach, Brac Island’s Zlatni Rat Beach also called the Golden Horn. Renowned for its distinct shape, the 2-km white pebble beach is a magnet for tourists.
As Croatia’s most famous beach, Zlatni Rat is full of tourists. But thanks to its enormous size, you will find a quiet place to propose. After your proposal, take advantage of the many fun activities on offer. If you and your partner are into adventurous sports, try kitesurfing or windsurfing. Strong winds regularly blow on the beach, giving avid surfers the adrenaline they crave. Many tourists choose to visit Brac Island by chartering luxury yachts, this way you can travel to other surrounding islands, all whilst in a romantic setting.
After your adventure, the best way to relax and celebrate your engagement is with a fancy dinner at one of the restaurants that line the beach. You will find many restaurants by the beach offering delicious Croatian meals, which you can enjoy with delicious wine or refreshing cocktails.
5. Mount Srd, Dubrovnik
Rising above the Old City of Dubrovnik, Mount Srd opens to some of Croatia’s most picturesque views. The craggy mountain is home to a large fortress, a museum, and a restaurant. Boasting a stunning panoramic view of Dubrovnik, Mount Srd is the perfect location for a romantic marriage proposal.
The viewpoint at Mt. Srd stretches to the turquoise Mediterranean waters of the west towards Croatia’s border with Bosnia. Although taking the cable car ride is the fastest and easiest way to get to the top, it’s also possible to hike, an ideal option for more adventurous couples. The trail to the summit is only less than 1.5 miles. But take note that it’s an uphill climb, so expect it to be much longer. Depending on your physical ability, the hike should take around 30 minutes. You can also stop at the scenic viewpoints to admire the views along the way or take some photos.
Riding the cable car is a fun way to get to Mount Srd. However, only two cable cars are available to carry up to 30 passengers at a time. Therefore, you may have to wait in a long queue for the ride, especially during the peak tourist season.
Photo: Croatian Villa Holidays