7 Best Airbnbs in Croatia, From Split’s Old Town to the Istrian Hills (2026)

Croatia—often portrayed as the undiscovered Italy or Greece—is distinguished by its shimmering turquoise waters, which set the scene for boat excursions, top-tier snorkeling, or lazy days sunbathing on the coastline. And while the picturesque beaches are no doubt a starring attraction, just know that there’s much more to satisfy the curious traveler when it comes to this Adriatic oasis. Think: Roman ruins that double as town squares (Split’s old town is built inside Diocletian’s palace), family-run konobas cooking that morning’s seafood haul, and beautiful islands—like Hvar, Vis, Brač— for hopping between. The best Airbnbs in Croatia put you at the center of all the country has to offer. From a loft built into the walls of a Roman palace to a private-beach villa, here's where to stay.Luxury Countryside Villa in IstriaPerks: Beach access, seasonal private pool, private outdoor area, fireplace, washer and dryer, private chef, free parkingRaw concrete ceilings juxtapose 150 year-old furniture sourced from India and low-slung Minotti sofas inside this villa. It’s located in Istria, an area sculpted by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves rather than coastline (Poreč and Rovinj, on the water, are each about a 30-minute drive). A private chef and daily housekeeping are part of the deal, along with a heated infinity pool fringed by olive trees. The on-site team will organize truffle hunting or a wine tasting to further fill out your itinerary, while breakfast (farm-fresh eggs and sweet juices) also comes as part of the stay each morning. From $1,447 per night.Seafront Villa with a Private BeachPerks: Seaside views, washer and dryer, screening room, pool table, private backyard, outdoor pool, hot tub, gym, free parkingLocal fishermen still pull tuna and yellowtail out of the bay in front of Villa Palma each May and June. Centrally located and spacious, the house sits on over 11 acres, filled with modern comforts like a fully equipped kitchen, a private screening room, and a gym. Orange and olive trees run down to a private stretch of beach, and the 14-meter infinity pool is angled so the water seems to run straight into the sea. Host Sanja will sort a private chef (or will grill fresh fish on an open flame herself), a boat for the day, or a table in Cavtat with a simple text. From $3,462 per night.Secluded Stone VillaPerks: Pool, hot tub, fireplace, private backyard area, basketball court, free parking, pet-friendlyAt Zadar Legacy House, light filters in through sizable sliding glass doors instead of traditional windows, which also allow you to seamlessly pass through the property’s interiors and exteriors. Vaulted ceilings make the ranch-style home with four bedrooms (each with its own bathroom) feel even more spacious, while a dedicated space for wellness sits just off the main structure. Throughout the rooms, textured walls, subtle wooden detailing, and intentionally mismatched furniture bring coziness to overall ambiance. Here, you’re just a 20-minute drive to the local town and five minutes away from the beach, though the impressive pool, hot tub, and outdoor lounge setup rival that of a high-end hotel. From $1,197 for three nights, with a three night-minimum stayPalace LoftPerks: Private balcony, courtyard view, security system, central AC, proximity to the citySplit’s Diocletian’s Palace isn’t just a historical ode—this loft stay sits behind the palace’s sprawling stone arches, a steep two-flight climb up to a 48-square meter space tucked under centuries-old wooden beams and stacked with antiques. Mornings start with coffee (prepared in the rental’s corner kitchenette) on the balcony before heading out and about the Old Town. There’s lots of shopping and restaurants to explore just a few minutes away like Parasol, the local coffee-shop-meets-wine-bar frequented by locals. Ela hosts here in Split while her sister Katarina runs a second place on Hvar if that’s next on your itinerary. From $198 per night.Minimalist Seaside HideawayPerks: Seaside views, pool, private outdoor area, outdoor shower, air-conditioning, free parkingThe private rooftop terrace attached to this seaside-based stay is beautiful in its own right—not to mention bigger than the apartment underneath it—looking out over the sea to Brač and Hvar. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy an evening glass of gemišt, the local spritzer of white wine and sparkling water, as the sun goes down. The one-bedroom space is minimal, deliberately quiet, and whitewashed. Fixed on the top floor of a small building in Okrug Gornji, on the island of Čiovo near Trogir—the one-bedroom property is well-suited to both solo travelers and couples. A car is necessary for getting around, and while the shared pool downstairs is fine for a quick dip, the Adriatic Sea is a short walk away for the real thing. From $276 per night.An Old Town ApartmentPerks: Beach access, private balcony, air conditioning, self check-inZadar’s Sea Organ—the wave-powered open-air installation that turns the tide into sound—is a short walk from this apartment tucked into the city’s Old Town near St. Donatus Church and the Roman Forum. The interiors lean breezy and beige—more Greek island than typical Dalmatian stone—with white walls and light cream tones. There’s a proper kitchen built for actual cooking, and city views round it out as a solid base for spending some serious time in. From $175 per night.The Peristyle courtyard of Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Photo: Alxpin/GettyA Base in Central SplitPerks: Beach access, private balcony, washer and dryer, free parkingHere’s a recently renovated one-bedroom, three floors up, but note there is no elevator—so pack light, it’s a climb. What the stay lacks in convenience, it more than makes up for in location: You’re just a minute’s walk from the Golden Gate into Diocletian’s Palace and the produce market that runs alongside it most mornings. The apartment is a well-kept base for anyone who wants to be out the door and into the Old Town fast. Host Regina has spent 17 years in the city’s tourism trade, so pick her brain for the best things to do in town. From $173 per night.