Greece vs Croatia: find out which European destination suits you best

Unsure where to vacation in the Mediterranean?

We’re here to assist you in narrowing your choices to two of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations: Greece and Croatia. But which one is the best fit for you? Let two enthusiastic travel writers guide your decision.

Greece is the place to be

Based in vibrant Athens since 1996, our Greece specialist Helen Iatrou has co-authored Dinogo Planet’s Greece and Experience Greece guides. If she had her way, she would always opt for a sailing yacht for island-hopping adventures.

My six-week adventure through Greece’s breathtaking mountains and stunning islands three decades ago made me realize I had to move there and reconnect with my heritage.

When I made the move, everyone I met—from taxi drivers to hotel owners—greeted me with a warm smile and said, “Ah, you’ve come home.” Greece truly excels in hospitality. The concept of Philoxenia, meaning “friend to a stranger,” is deeply rooted in Greek culture.

I found many fellow Greeks already living here, enjoying a more relaxed and stress-free way of life. Greek time is a real phenomenon; if you plan a coffee with a Greek friend, don’t worry about being late—they likely will be, too. I see this as a healthy attitude towards time, and it’s just one of the reasons Greece comes out on top in any comparison with its Mediterranean neighbor, Croatia.

A nation brimming with possibilities

Your only challenge mirrors the one I’ve encountered for over 25 years: how to decide where to visit in Greece and when? If this is your first visit, start in the capital, renowned as the cradle of Western civilization. Athens has gifted the world invaluable treasures in philosophy, literature, and democracy. Experience the heights of Classical history at the Acropolis, where you can admire the Parthenon, Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion.

Don’t miss the Acropolis Museum, home to five of the six exquisitely crafted caryatid sculptures (the sixth resides in the British Museum, along with the Parthenon Marbles; Greece continues its quest to have the marbles returned to Athens). Other essential stops include the National Archaeological Museum and the Tactual Museum, originally designed for the visually impaired to touch life-sized replicas of masterpieces like the Venus de Milo.

Archaeological sites and monuments seamlessly blend into the lively atmosphere of the modern capital. The city has transformed into a hub for art, featuring the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Basil & Elise Goulandris Foundation, and even a Gagosian branch.

Athens neighborhoods are alive with energy. The open-air cafes in Pangrati and Kypseli attract espresso lovers. The eclectic bookshops in rebellious Exarchia entice readers, while rebetika (Greek blues) bars draw in nostalgic patrons.

In addition to its cultural accolades, Athens boasts some of the rare Blue Flag beaches among European capitals. And no, Zagreb, I’m not talking about lakes: the 61km (38mi) stretch of the Athens Riviera is lined with fish tavernas, upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and beach bars. At Lake Vouliagmeni, you can even soak in thermal springs.

Island life

I’ll be honest, Croatia has recently gained some cool points. However, its islands can’t compete with Greece’s impressive count of 227 islands – and that’s just the inhabited ones. The possibilities for island-hopping in Greece are truly limitless.

In the Ionian, towering fir-covered slopes overlook the deep emerald waters. Behind Corfu’s Barbati beach, the English naturalist and author Gerald Durrell explored as a child. Climb to the Old Fortress in the capital for stunning views of the closely packed ocher, peach, and fuchsia neoclassical mansions.

In the Cyclades, the luxurious Mykonos and the beloved honeymoon destination Santorini capture most of the spotlight; however, consider visiting Naxos for its golden sandy beaches and delicious farm-to-table cuisine. To escape the summer hustle, explore the less-visited Northeastern Aegean. Enjoy windsurfing in Limnos, followed by a hearty dish of braised cockerel with flomaria (pasta).

On the mainland, a road trip through Central Greece showcases the country’s rich diversity: from Delphi, the heart of the ancient world, to the towering monoliths and Byzantine monasteries of Meteora.

Be sure to stop in Volos to enjoy fish and seafood meze paired with the strong spirit tsipouro at one of the port town’s charming tsipouradika. East of Volos, you’ll find the lushly forested Pelion, home to traditional villages, hiking trails, and – of course – more beautiful beaches.

Honestly, Croatia, it might be best to know when to bow out gracefully.

A Croatian Symphony

Lucie Grace fell in love with Croatia after unexpectedly relocating to its capital two years ago. Since then, she has traversed the entire country, often on a quest to discover the finest slice of burek at each stop.

Alright, Greece, we all acknowledge your role as the cradle of Western civilization. But isn't the excitement of travel about uncovering new and unexpected places? Since I settled in Hrvatska (Croatian for Croatia), my life has been filled with awe-inspiring moments. I'm continually amazed by the stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural diversity in this socially conscious treasure, where Slavic influences meet Roman heritage, with a touch of Ottoman flair. Croatia is a destination that will always surprise you.

Adriatic Dreams

Take Split, for instance: a city established within a 3rd-century palace. It astounds me that these walls have stood strong for 1700 years—before even considering the vibrant mix of cafes, shops, museums, and churches that have set up shop within its gleaming marble. Perhaps the only ancient city in Croatia that rivals Split’s allure is the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik—and let’s face it, this nickname is spot-on. Whether you're a Game of Thrones enthusiast or not, the magnificent architecture and towering city walls are sure to captivate anyone.

Croatia is a treasure trove of breathtaking natural wonders: eight designated national parks comprise 10% of the country’s territory, including the stunning Plitvice Lakes. This park is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting 150 bird species, 300 types of butterflies, and 1200 varieties of plants, all surrounding 16 magnificent turquoise lakes interconnected by cascading waterfalls of various shapes and sizes.

The culinary scene in Croatia is equally remarkable, featuring braised meats, hearty stews, and dumplings in the inland regions, alongside grilled fish, shellfish, and calamari along the coast. However, it’s the delightful pastry snack burek that has truly won my heart. Available with cheese, spinach, or meat fillings, it’s a meal unto itself. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving it endlessly.

Blue Flag beaches? We have them in abundance, even in bustling university towns like Rijeka, where the music scene thrives every day of the week. With a coastline stretching 5835 km (3625 miles), you’re never far from a breathtaking aquamarine cove to explore. From the secluded coves of Sveti Ivan in Lubenice on Cres to the stunning Zlatni Rat, a picturesque peninsula beach (perfect for drone enthusiasts) on Brač, there’s an idyllic island beach for every occasion.

I hate to say it, Greece, but you might just have a few too many islands. With 227 to choose from, how is anyone supposed to know where to begin? In contrast, Croatia offers a more manageable 48 inhabited islands, arranged neatly along the coastline, making them far easier to explore than the Cyclades or the Dodecanese.

Enchanting experiences

I’ve mentioned this before, and it bears repeating: Croatia is remarkably safe, which is incredibly important for me as a solo female traveler. Can you name another European country where you can leave your door unlocked while you run errands and feel completely at ease? This sense of security fosters a deep relaxation. The Dalmatians have a special term for this blissful state: fjaka, which captures the art of unwinding during the warm summer months. It’s so relaxed, it feels almost meditative.

At last, my favorite aspect: the enchanting energy that fills the air. Whether or not you subscribe to the idea of ley lines (often referred to as “dragon lines”) in Istria, the local folklore is undeniable; it permeates every town and city. From friendly giants who crafted villages to benevolent witches who shaped lakes, there’s an irresistible allure to Croatia’s mystical atmosphere.

And this magic will leave you yearning to return, year after year.