Rijeka
Rijeka’s position overlooking the Kvarner Bay with its islands (Cres, Krk) on the south, the Učka mountain on the west, the mountains of Gorski kotar to the north and the Velebit range to the east offers an impressive natural setting. The terrain configuration, with mountains raising steeply just a few miles inland from the shores of the Adriatic, provides for some striking climatic and landscape contrasts in a small geographic area.
Beaches can be enjoyed throughout summer in a typically Mediterranean environment along the coastal areas of the city to the east (Pećine, Kostrena) and west (Kantrida, Preluk). At the same time, the ski resort of Platak, located only about 10 kilometers (6.2 mi) from the city, offers alpine skiing and abundant snow during winter months.
Rijeka has a humid subtropical climate with warm summers and relatively mild and rainy winters. Snow is rare (usually 3 days per year, almost always in traces). There are 22 days a year with maximum of 30°C (86 °F) or higher, while one day a year temperature does not exceed 0°C (32 °F). Fog appears in about 4 days per year, mainly in winter. Download: Brochure Rijeka’s Beaches (PDF)
Zagreb
Zagreb lies between the southern slopes of Mount Medvednica and the flat plains of the Sava River valley, offering a striking setting where urban life meets nature. The city’s northern edge is bordered by forested hills, while the south stretches into wide lowlands and farmland.
This unique topography results in marked seasonal contrasts. Winters are typically cold and snowy, especially in the upper parts of the city closer to Medvednica, where the Sljeme ski resort operates just 15 km (9.3 mi) from the city center. Summers are warm to hot, often sunny and humid, especially in July and August, with maximum temperatures reaching 30°C (86°F) or higher on average 25 days a year.
The city’s continental climate means spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant transitions. Fog occurs most frequently in late autumn and winter, especially near the Sava River. Zagreb’s location, bridging Central Europe and the Balkans, influences both its climate and its cultural atmosphere—cosmopolitan and green, with four full seasons.
Split
Split’s location on the Adriatic coast, nestled between the sea and the Mosor and Kozjak mountains, offers a stunning natural setting rich in contrast. The city overlooks the central Dalmatian islands of Brač, Hvar, and Šolta, providing dramatic views and easy access to the surrounding archipelago. The terrain rises quickly from the coast, creating a varied landscape of beaches, cliffs, and forested hills.
Coastal areas such as Bačvice, Firule, and Kašjuni offer typical Mediterranean beach experiences throughout the long summer season. The nearby Marjan hill, covered in pine forest, provides panoramic views and opportunities for hiking and cycling just minutes from the city center. Split has a hot-summer Mediterranean climate, with over 2,600 hours of sunshine annually.
Summers are dry and warm, with average highs around 30°C (86°F), while winters are mild and wetter, with occasional cooler days. Snowfall is extremely rare. The city enjoys about 4–5 days per year where temperatures exceed 35°C (95°F), and only a few days when temperatures drop below freezing.
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is located on the southern tip of Croatia’s Adriatic coast, framed by the Dinaric Alps to the north and the deep blue sea to the south, offering one of the country’s most iconic landscapes. Surrounded by centuries-old stone walls and perched above a rugged coastline, the city blends dramatic scenery with rich architectural heritage.
The nearby Elaphiti Islands enhance the visual appeal, while Mount Srđ provides panoramic views and hiking trails just above the old town. Beaches like Banje, Sveti Jakov, and Lapad Bay are popular throughout the long, warm summers.
Dubrovnik has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Average summer highs range between 28–30°C (82–86°F), with over 2,500 hours of sunshine annually. Snowfall is extremely rare and usually melts quickly. Winter temperatures occasionally dip below 5°C (41°F) at night but remain pleasant during the day. The bura wind can bring sudden gusts from the northeast in colder months, while the jugo wind brings humid, rainy weather from the southeast.
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