Planning your next holiday to Croatia with an all inclusive package means bundling flights, accommodation, meals and drinks into one upfront price. For 2026 and 2027, this approach is proving popular among UK and European travellers who want the beauty of the Adriatic coast without worrying about daily expenses.
All inclusive holidays to Croatia at a glance
Croatia all inclusive holidays typically include return flights from airports like London Gatwick, London Stansted or Manchester to coastal destinations such as Split, Dubrovnik, Pula or Zadar. Your package will usually cover checked baggage, shared airport transfers, hotel accommodation, and an all inclusive board basis at resorts along the Adriatic coastline.
What does “all inclusive” actually mean in Croatia? At most resorts, you can expect three daily buffet meals in the main restaurant, snacks between meals, and locally produced drinks from roughly 10:00 until 23:00. Many hotels also include pool access, loungers, evening entertainment and kids’ clubs as standard.
Key travel periods for 2026/2027:
- Easter (April): Shoulder season with pleasant temperatures around 16–19°C, lighter crowds and lower prices
- May half term: Daytime highs of 20–24°C, sea warming to swimmable levels, all resorts fully open
- July–August: Peak season with temperatures reaching 28–34°C, warmest sea (24–26°C), full resort programming
- September: Early month offers near-summer warmth (25–28°C) with fewer families and reduced prices
Why Croatia works for all inclusive:
- Crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea with Blue Flag beaches
- UNESCO-listed historic towns like Dubrovnik and Split to explore
- Easy island hopping to Hvar, Korčula, Brač and beyond
- Short flights from much of Europe (around 2–3 hours from the UK)
- Euro currency since 2023 makes budgeting straightforward
Best regions in Croatia for all inclusive holidays
Croatia’s Adriatic coast stretches from the Istrian peninsula in the north to the Dubrovnik Riviera in the south. Each region offers a distinct character, though all share those trademark hidden coves, clear waters and seafront promenades that make inclusive holidays to Croatia so appealing.
The main areas popular with package holidaymakers include:
- Istria: The heart-shaped peninsula near Italy, home to Pula, Rovinj and Poreč
- Kvarner Bay: Elegant Opatija plus islands like Krk, Lošinj and Rab
- Central Dalmatia: Split, the Makarska Riviera, and islands including Brač and Hvar
- Southern Dalmatia: The Dubrovnik Riviera stretching through Cavtat, Mlini and Slano
Flight times from London to Croatian airports average around 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes. From Manchester, expect closer to 3 hours. German travellers benefit from shorter connections, with Berlin to Split taking under 2 hours.
Transfer durations vary significantly by resort:
Airport | Resort Area | Transfer Time |
|---|---|---|
Dubrovnik | Cavtat | 10–15 minutes |
Dubrovnik | Mlini | 20–25 minutes |
Split | Makarska Riviera | 60–90 minutes |
Split | Trogir | 10–15 minutes |
Pula | Poreč | 50–60 minutes |
Pula | Rabac | 60–75 minutes |
Dalmatian Coast highlights
Central and Southern Dalmatia represent the most sought-after destinations for summer holidays in 2026 and 2027. The combination of dramatic Biokovo Mountain backdrops, long pebble beaches and proximity to ancient walls in cities like Split and Dubrovnik creates an irresistible draw.
Key hotspots along the Dalmatian coast include Split with its Roman ruins at Diocletian’s Palace, the Makarska Riviera towns of Makarska, Tučepi, Brela and Baška Voda, plus the glamorous islands of Brač (famous for Golden Horn beach at Bol) and Hvar Town. Further south, the Dubrovnik Riviera offers Cavtat and Mlini as quieter alternatives to the old town itself, while Korčula Town provides a smaller, more intimate walled-city experience.
Popular excursions from Dalmatian all inclusive resorts:
- Day trip to Dubrovnik old town to walk the ancient walls and take the cable car to Mount Srđ
- Boat tour from Hvar to the Blue Cave and surrounding islands
- Krka National Park waterfalls from Split or Šibenik
- Island-hopping cruises to the Elaphiti Islands from Dubrovnik
Many seafront inclusive hotels in Dalmatia offer direct beach access via steps or platforms, infinity pools overlooking the sea, and pine-shaded terraces. Resorts like Bluesun Hotel Neptun in Tučepi and properties in Cavtat are well known for combining these facilities with full all inclusive service.
Explore Dalmatian Coast all inclusive hotel deals
Istria and Kvarner Bay
Istria and Kvarner suit couples and families wanting slightly cooler summers, with July temperatures typically 1–2°C lower than southern Dalmatia. The region also offers easy driving distances between towns, making it simple to combine resort relaxation with cultural sightseeing.
In Istria, Poreč anchors the all inclusive scene with numerous resort complexes set among pine forests along the Zelena Laguna and Plava Laguna coastlines. Rovinj provides one of Croatia’s most photogenic harbours, while Pula attracts history lovers with its remarkably preserved Roman amphitheatre and ancient Roman ruins. Rabac on Istria’s eastern coast has earned a reputation for family-friendly inclusive resorts with turquoise bays.
Across Kvarner Bay, Opatija retains its Belle Époque grandeur with grand hotels and the famous Lungomare promenade stretching along the coast to Lovran. The islands of Krk, Lošinj and Rab offer quieter escapes with forested walking trails and small-scale inclusive hotels.
All inclusive hotels on the Istrian Riviera often sit in parkland above rocky coves, with long coastal promenades and cycling paths connecting resort to town. For travellers seeking water sports, many properties can arrange kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding and sailing lessons through beach concessions.
May, June and September work particularly well for Istria and Kvarner, when the sea is warm enough for swimming but crowds are lighter and prices more attractive than peak August.
Find all inclusive hotels in Istria and Kvarner Bay
What’s included in Croatia all inclusive packages?
Understanding exactly what your inclusive package covers helps avoid surprises once you arrive at your resort. While specifics vary between hotels and tour operators, most Croatia all inclusive deals for 2026/2027 follow a similar pattern.
Core inclusions in a typical package:
- Return flights from your departure airport to a Croatian coastal airport
- Checked baggage (usually at least one bag per person with major operators)
- Shared coach transfers between airport and hotel
- Hotel accommodation in a 3- to 5-star resort
- Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner daily
- Snacks between meals (mid-morning, afternoon, sometimes late evening)
- Soft drinks, coffee, tea and locally produced alcoholic drinks
Important time limits to note:
Most inclusive hotels serve complimentary drinks during set hours, typically 10:00 to 23:00 or midnight. Outside these windows, beverages are usually chargeable. Premium imported spirits, branded cocktails and bottled wines often cost extra even during inclusive hours—check the small print before booking.
Standard facilities usually included:
- Outdoor swimming pools (main pool and often a children’s pool)
- Sun loungers and parasols around the pool
- Evening entertainment (live music, shows, karaoke)
- Kids’ clubs during daytime hours
- Basic sports facilities (table tennis, fitness room, beach volleyball)
Premium or upgraded all inclusive packages at higher-end resorts may also cover à la carte restaurant visits (often 1–3 per week), branded international spirits, selected water sports like kayaking, spa zone access including sauna and steam room, or even included excursions.
Food, drink and local Croatian flavours
Most all inclusive hotels in Croatia combine international buffet staples with regional specialities, giving guests a taste of local cuisine without needing to leave the resort. Breakfast typically features European standards plus Mediterranean touches, while lunch and dinner buffets rotate through various themes.
Croatian dishes to look for:
- Fresh Adriatic fish, grilled whole or as fillets
- Grilled squid (lignje) served with olive oil and garlic
- Black cuttlefish risotto (crni rižot)
- Dalmatian pršut (air-dried ham) with Pag cheese
- Istrian truffle pasta on theme nights
- Štrukli (baked cheese pastry) from continental Croatia
Desserts often include fritule doughnuts dusted with sugar, cream cakes and regional fruit tarts. Many family resorts offer dedicated ice cream hours for children as part of the inclusive deal, though gelato stands on the promenade outside remain extra.
For drinks, expect Croatian wines like Istrian Malvazija and Dalmatian Plavac Mali served as house options, plus Karlovačko and Ožujsko beers on tap. Local fruit brandies like rakija may be included or charged depending on the resort’s policy. Espresso-based coffees are sometimes extra at higher-end properties.
Many resorts host weekly Croatian theme nights featuring regional specialities, klapa singers performing traditional Dalmatian harmonies, and folk dancers. These evenings offer an excellent way to explore local culture without booking separate restaurant trips.
Entertainment, activities and extras
Daily activities at Croatian all inclusive resorts typically run from morning until late evening, with something for every age group.
Included daytime activities often feature:
- Aqua aerobics and water polo in the pool
- Yoga and stretching sessions on terraces
- Beach volleyball and football tournaments
- Table tennis and darts
- Fitness room access
Evening entertainment commonly includes:
- Live bands and DJ sets
- Karaoke and quiz nights
- Dance shows and cabaret performances
- Kids’ mini disco before bedtime
Family-oriented resorts add waterslides, splash parks, playgrounds and structured kids’ clubs with age-appropriate programming. Many clubs run for children aged 4–12, with some properties offering teen activities during peak season.
Island and national park excursions—trips to Krka, Plitvice Lakes, Hvar or the Kornati archipelago—rarely come fully included in your package. However, most resorts have excursion desks where you can book these outings, often with coach pick-up from your hotel. Expect to pay separately for boat trips, guided tours and national park entrance fees.
One practical note: Croatian beaches are predominantly pebble or rock rather than sand, even at premium inclusive hotels. Water shoes are highly recommended for comfortable swimming, especially for children.
Types of all inclusive holidays in Croatia
Croatia’s inclusive resorts cater to different traveller types, from couples seeking romantic sunsets to families wanting kids’ clubs and splash pools. The key is matching your priorities to the right hotel rather than just choosing a destination.
Hotel character matters enormously. Within the same bay, you might find a lively family resort with waterslides and mini discos alongside a tranquil adults-focused property with spa and wine bar. Both could be excellent—just not for the same guest.
The 2026 and 2027 seasons will see continued expansion of both luxury and mid-range all inclusive options along the Dalmatian and Istrian coasts. Croatian hotel chains like Valamar, Bluesun and Falkensteiner have been upgrading properties to meet Northern European expectations for inclusive service.
Before booking, decide what matters most: kids’ facilities, spa access, nightlife proximity, cultural excursions, or simply just pure relaxation by the pool. Then narrow your search to regions and hotels that deliver on those priorities.
All inclusive Croatia for couples
For couples, inclusive Croatia holidays offer sunset dinners overlooking the Adriatic, rooftop cocktail bars, spa treatments and easy access to romantic old towns. The appeal lies in having everything organised while still feeling like an escape rather than a package experience.
Adults-only or adult-focused wings exist in areas like Makarska, Tučepi and Cavtat, often featuring infinity pools, quiet beaches and wine bars serving Croatian vintages. Higher-end resorts offer desirable room types including sea-view doubles with balconies, swim-up suites with direct pool access, and rooms with private whirlpools or hot tubs on terraces.
Romantic excursions worth booking:
- Evening walk along Dubrovnik’s ancient walls at sunset
- Private boat hire around the Elaphiti Islands
- Wine tasting on the Pelješac Peninsula (famous for Plavac Mali reds)
- Dinner in Rovinj’s harbourside restaurants
Shoulder seasons work best for couples: late May, early June and late September bring warm weather, swimmable seas and noticeably fewer families competing for poolside loungers. Prices are also more attractive than the July–August peak.
Discover romantic all inclusive hotels for couples in Croatia
Family-friendly all inclusive holidays
Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and Istria work exceptionally well for families. Flight times from UK and German airports are short enough for young children, beaches are clean and well-maintained, seas are calm in protected coves, and resort towns feel safe and walkable.
Popular family destinations include:
- Zadar Riviera: Resorts like Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik with extensive kids’ facilities
- Šibenik area: Close to Krka National Park and aquaparks
- Makarska Riviera: Long beaches with pine shade and numerous family hotels
- Poreč and Umag in Istria: Large resort complexes with pools, slides and playgrounds
Typical family facilities at inclusive hotels include interconnecting or family rooms with bunk beds, baby cots on request, dedicated children’s buffet corners with familiar foods, ice cream hours, mini clubs running morning and afternoon sessions, and evening mini discos.
All inclusive helps parents budget for 2026 and 2027 school holiday prices, with meals, snacks and most soft drinks already covered. Given that a family of four eating out twice daily in Croatian resort towns can easily spend €100–€150 per day, inclusive deals often represent genuine value during peak summer.
Family outings to consider: boat trips into the Kornati National Park, aquaparks near Poreč (Aquacolors) and Šibenik, and easy coastal bike rides along pine-shaded promenades.
City and island stays with all inclusive comfort
Travellers wanting both resort comfort and city culture can find hybrid options—hotels positioned near Dubrovnik old town, Split’s waterfront or on islands like Hvar and Korčula that still offer all inclusive board.
Some city-adjacent resorts sit on peninsulas or across bays from historic centres, offering shuttle buses or water taxis into the old towns. Examples include properties in Dubrovnik’s Lapad area (10–15 minutes from the old town by bus), Split’s Podstrana strip, and Zadar’s Borik resort zone.
Island all inclusive hotels often occupy quieter bays away from the main harbour, meaning guests arrive via catamaran or ferry from Split or Dubrovnik before a final transfer. Plan for this journey time, especially with young children.
The typical rhythm for these stays alternates between daytime relaxation at the resort pool and evening explorations of cobbled streets, fortresses and harbourfront restaurants. You don’t have to eat every meal at your hotel—sometimes the best treat is fresh fish in a harbourside konoba.
Fully urban hotels within Dubrovnik old town or central Split usually operate on bed and breakfast or half board. True all inclusive is more common at resort-style properties just outside city centres.
When to go and how much to budget
Croatia’s Adriatic coast enjoys a Mediterranean climate: warm to hot, dry summers and mild springs and autumns. For beach holidays, the season runs roughly from late April through October, with peak conditions from June to September.
Seasonal breakdown:
Period | Air Temperature | Sea Temperature | Crowds | Prices |
|---|---|---|---|---|
April–May | 15–24°C | 14–19°C | Light | Low |
June | 24–27°C | 21–23°C | Moderate | Medium |
July–August | 28–34°C | 24–26°C | High | Peak |
September | 24–28°C | 22–25°C | Moderate | Medium |
October | 18–21°C | 19–21°C | Light | Low |
Value tracks the calendar more than the region: low season (April, early May, October) in Istria and Zadar sits at the bottom of the range, shoulder months in Dalmatia cost a little more, and peak July–August at popular family resorts commands a clear premium. For current figures, check the live prices on Booking.com rather than relying on a fixed quote.
For comparison, eating out in Croatia during 2025 typically costs €10–€15 for a pizza or pasta main, €15–€25 for seafood, and €25–€40 per person for a three-course meal with drinks. A family of four dining out twice daily could easily spend €140–€240. Over seven days, that totals €980–€1,680—often exceeding the premium for choosing all inclusive over half board.
Book peak 2026 and 2027 summer holidays 9–12 months ahead for best choice on family rooms and convenient flight times. Early booking often unlocks low deposit options. Shoulder season deals can be found 3–6 months out, with genuine last-minute bargains appearing in May and late September for flexible travellers.
Best months for beach weather
For pure relaxation on the beach with reliable swimming conditions, timing matters.
Temperature expectations:
- May: Air 20–23°C, sea 17–19°C—swimmable for hardy swimmers, excellent for sightseeing
- June: Air 24–27°C, sea 21–23°C—ideal balance of good weather and manageable crowds
- July–August: Air 28–32°C (sometimes higher), sea 24–26°C—perfect for families wanting maximum pool and beach time
- September: Air 24–27°C (early month), sea 22–24°C—still warm, noticeably quieter
May, June and late September combine good weather with more attractive all inclusive prices and more space on beaches and around pools. These months suit couples and older travellers particularly well.
Some resort facilities operate reduced hours outside high season. Kids’ clubs may run fewer sessions, waterslides might close earlier, and seasonal beach bars may not open until mid-June. Check your hotel’s 2026 seasonal programme before booking if specific facilities matter to your trip.
Many coastal resorts close between late October and April, reopening for Easter and the spring season.
Comparing all inclusive to other board options
Understanding board types helps you choose what fits your holiday style:
- All Inclusive: Three meals, snacks, drinks included during set hours
- All Inclusive Light: Similar to above but with fewer drink options or restricted hours
- Full Board: Three meals included, drinks chargeable
- Half Board: Breakfast and dinner only, lunch on your own
- Bed & Breakfast: Breakfast only, maximum flexibility
Travellers planning frequent day trips to Split, Dubrovnik or national parks might prefer half board to avoid paying for lunches they’ll miss. If you’re hiring a car and exploring different towns daily, B&B gives complete freedom.
However, for resort-based beach holidays—particularly with children—all inclusive usually delivers better value. Those daily restaurant and bar bills add up faster than expected in popular city destinations like Dubrovnik and Hvar.
Some resorts now offer “light all inclusive” packages with fewer alcoholic drink options but lower prices, especially outside July–August. This suits families focused on meals and soft drinks rather than cocktails.
Practical tips for booking Croatia all inclusive holidays 2026/2027
Planning ahead for peak 2026 and 2027 departure dates gives you the best chance of securing preferred room types, convenient flight times and competitive prices. Popular family resorts near airports with short transfers—Cavtat for Dubrovnik, Makarska for Split, Poreč for Pula—fill early for school holiday weeks.
Before booking, check:
- Exactly what “all inclusive” covers at your chosen hotel
- Bar serving hours (typically 10:00–23:00)
- Kids’ club age ranges and languages
- À la carte restaurant limits (e.g. 1–3 visits per week)
- Whether “all inclusive light” applies instead of full AI
Reading recent guest reviews pays dividends. Focus on comments about food quality, cleanliness, staff friendliness and how busy pools and beaches feel during your intended travel period. Reviews from the same season give the most relevant picture.
Travel essentials for Croatia 2026/2027:
- Passports valid for entire stay (check Schengen requirements for non-EU travellers)
- ETIAS authorisation likely required for UK visitors—confirm current rules before departure date
- Euro currency used throughout Croatia since January 2023
- ATMs widely available; cards accepted almost everywhere
Book extras like airport parking, private transfers or island ferry tickets at the same time as your holiday deal to avoid last-minute price increases, particularly for July–August travel.
Choosing the right Croatian resort and hotel
Several factors should guide your decision beyond star rating and price.
Key considerations:
- Flight duration: 2–3 hours from UK keeps travel manageable
- Transfer time: Shorter transfers suit families with young children (Cavtat 10–15 minutes vs. Makarska Riviera 60–90 minutes)
- Proximity to town: Some resorts sit just a stone’s throw from old towns; others require shuttles
- Beach access: Direct seafront vs. hillside with steps
- Guest focus: Family-centric with slides vs. adults-only with spa
Many Croatian resorts are built on terraced slopes above the sea. For travellers with limited mobility, check hotel maps and reviews for gradient information and step counts. The most scenic hotels often sit on peninsulas just outside towns, offering quiet surroundings but requiring transport for nightlife and restaurants.
Compare included facilities between similar-star hotels:
- Parking (often free but sometimes charged)
- Wi-Fi speed and coverage
- Spa/indoor pool access (sometimes extra even for AI guests)
- Sun-bed reservation policies
Money, tipping and local etiquette
Croatia uses the euro, making costs easy to track for eurozone visitors and straightforward for UK travellers to compare. ATMs are widely available in coastal resorts, ferry ports and old towns.
Tipping guidance:
- Restaurants: Service not usually included; round up or tip 5–10% for good service
- Cafés and bars: Round to nearest euro or leave small change
- Hotel staff: Small tips for housekeepers at end of stay
- Tour guides and drivers: Modest per-person tip appreciated
Card payments are accepted in hotels, restaurants, shops and most taxis. Keep small cash amounts for market stalls, boat taxis, local buses and kiosk purchases.
Etiquette notes:
- Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches; remove hats indoors
- Keep noise down in residential streets after dark
- Observe glass bans on beaches where signed
- Wear cover-ups when leaving beach or pool areas
English and German are widely spoken throughout Croatia’s tourist areas. Hotel staff, restaurant servers and excursion guides typically communicate fluently, making inclusive stays and exploring the country’s amazing sights straightforward for international visitors.
Croatia offers the perfect place for your next holiday—combining that clear Adriatic sea, fascinating history and culture, delicious food, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing your accommodation, meals and flights are already covered. Start comparing 2026 and 2027 holiday destinations now, and book early for the best choice on your perfect holiday.
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