Start our journey with two extraordinary national parks that will delight the whole family with their natural beauty and abundance of nature.

Krka National Park is a true paradise for nature lovers, located in central Dalmatia, about 10 km from the town of Šibenik. It is a place where the Krka River creates spectacular waterfalls and cascades, surrounded by lush vegetation. The park is accessible all year round, but the best time to visit is between April and October. Admission tickets can be purchased online or on site, and prices range from 30 to 210 Croatian kuna (4-28 euros), depending on the season and age of visitors.

For families with children, the park offers many attractions:

• Wooden footbridges and nature trails, ideal for walks with the little ones
• The possibility of swimming in the crystal clear water under the Skradinski buk waterfall (allowed from June to September)
• Boat cruise on the Krka River, during which you can admire the picturesque scenery
• Possibility to visit old water mills and learn about traditional crafts

Remember to wear comfortable shoes, headgear and UV sunscreen. It's a good idea to bring snacks and drinks with you, although there are also refreshment facilities in the park.

Another remarkable place is the Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in central Croatia, about 140 kilometers from Zagreb, the park impresses with cascading turquoise lakes connected by numerous waterfalls. The park is open all year round, but the best time to visit is from May to September. Entrance tickets cost between 80 and 300 Croatian kuna (10-40 euros), depending on season and age.

What awaits families in Plitvice Lakes National Park:

• A network of wooden bridges and paths, allowing safe sightseeing with children
• Electric boats and trains that make it easy to get around the park
• Numerous vantage points, ideal for family photos
• Opportunities to observe wildlife, including rare species of birds and butterflies

Before your visit, it's a good idea to book tickets online to avoid queues. Remember to wear comfortable, waterproof shoes and warm clothes, even in summer - the temperature in the park can be lower than on the coast.

Both parks offer an unforgettable experience for the whole family, combining education with fun in nature. They are the perfect places to get kids away from screens and show them the beauty of Croatian nature.

After visiting the national parks, it's time for slightly different attractions that combine elements of science, art and entertainment.

The Greeting to the Sun' is a fascinating art installation located in Zadar, on the northern Dalmatian coast. It is a place where art meets science, offering an unforgettable experience for the whole family. The installation is located on the waterfront, near the Sea Organ, another famous Zadar attraction.

Which makes 'The Greeting to the Sun' a unique attraction for families:

• A huge circular slab, 22 meters in diameter, covered with glass panels that collect solar energy during the daytime
• After sunset, the installation comes to life, creating a spectacular light show
• Interactive nature - children can run around the installation, watching the changing light patterns
• Educational aspect - an opportunity to learn about renewable energy and planetary movements

The installation is available year-round, 24 hours a day, and best of all - it's completely free. The best time to visit is sunset and evening hours, when the light effects are most visible.

For families looking for water attractions, the ideal destination would be Aquapark Dalmatia, located in the Solaris Beach Resort complex, about 6 km from Sibenik. This is a modern water park that offers plenty of fun for children of all ages.

What awaits families at Aquapark Dalmatia:

• A variety of water slides, suitable for different age groups
• A pool with artificial waves and a lazy river for calmer fun
• A special zone for the youngest children with shallow pools and small slides
• Relaxation areas for parents, including deck chairs and umbrellas

The aquapark is open from June to September, and ticket prices range from 15 to 25 euros for children and 20 to 30 euros for adults, depending on the season. It's a good idea to bring towels, UV sunscreen and waterproof shoes.

For families who prefer quieter attractions, we recommend a visit to St. Peter's Forest Park in Makarska. This picturesque park offers shade and tranquility on hot days, as well as beautiful views of the Adriatic Sea.

What the park offers families:

• Easy walking paths, ideal for families with young children
• Picnic areas where you can have a family meal outdoors
• Playgrounds for children
• Viewpoints with breathtaking views of the sea and islands

The park is open all year round and admission is free. It's the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll or relax after a day at the beach.

Each attraction offers something unique, combining education with fun and relaxation. These are places where families can spend time together, creating unforgettable memories of a Croatian vacation.

When planning a family trip to the attractions described above, keep in mind some practical tips that will help make your stay in Croatia even more enjoyable and comfortable.

1 Transportation:

• The Krka and Plitvice Lakes national parks are the easiest to get to by car. If you are not traveling in your own car, consider renting - this will give you the greatest freedom in planning your excursions.
• Zadar, where the installation of 'The Greeting to the Sun' is located, can be reached by bus or plane. Zadar airport serves flights from many European cities.
• Aquapark Dalmatia is easily accessible from Sibenik - regular buses run there from the city center.

2 Accommodation:

• You will find many family-run guesthouses and apartments near the national parks. Consider staying in towns such as Skradin (near Krka National Park) or Plitvice Selo (by the Plitvice Lakes).
• There is a large selection of family-friendly hotels and apartments in and around Zadar. Look for those with amenities for children, such as playgrounds or swimming pools.
• Near the Aquapark Dalmatia is the Solaris Beach Resort, offering accommodations ideal for families.

3 Food:

• There are food outlets in the national parks, but prices can be higher. It's worth taking snacks and drinks with you.
• In Zadar and other cities you'll find many restaurants offering kid-friendly dishes. Try local specialties such as 'pašticada' (braised beef) or fresh seafood.
• There are plenty of family-friendly dining options at the aquapark and the Solaris Beach Resort.

4 What to bring:

• To the national parks: comfortable waterproof shoes, headgear, UV sunscreen, mosquito repellent, water bottles, light snacks.
• To the beach and aquapark: towels, UV sunscreen, sunglasses, hats or caps, waterproof shoes.
• For 'The Greeting to the Sun' installation: camera or smartphone to capture the spectacular light show.

5 Safety:

• In national parks, stick to designated trails and follow safety rules.
• At water parks, always supervise children, even if they can swim.
• Remember to stay properly hydrated, especially on hot days.

6 Additional attractions in the area:

• Close to Krka National Park, visit the picturesque town of Šibenik with its impressive St. James Cathedral.
• Near the Plitvice Lakes is the Baraćeva Cave, which can be an interesting attraction for older children.
• In Zadar, in addition to 'The Greeting to the Sun,' be sure to listen to the Sea Organ and explore the old town.
• Nearby Sibenik and the aquapark are worth a boat trip to the Kornati National Park.

Remember that Croatia is a family-friendly country, and Croats are known for their hospitality. Don't be afraid to ask for help or advice - most locals, especially in tourist spots, speak English.

When planning your trip, pay attention to the seasons - summer can be very hot, so early spring or autumn may be a better choice for families with young children. Regardless of the date, Croatia is sure to impress you with its beauty and variety of attractions, providing unforgettable memories for the whole family.