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Dalmatian CoastImage by Free-Photos from Pixa

The Dalmatian Coast is best known for its climate: Mediterranean on the coastline, but quickly changing to alpine just inland in mountains which roll right down to the sea in a particularly picturesque way. There are a number of lovely towns and cities lining the coast, many containing the best hotels on the Dalmatian Coast, and all of which seem to have their best side facing out to sea.

SplitImage by Michelle Raponi from

Northern Dalmatia stretches from the Kvarner Riviera to Split, including Zadar and Trogir. Split is the largest city in the region, so makes an easy base. The Old Town, built around a vast Roman palace, is exceptionally beautiful. Zadar is the other large town in the region, again with an impressive Old Town littered with Roman ruins, medieval churches and excellent museums. But Northern Dalmatia is probably better known for the scenery, with some breathtakingly lovely National Parks and some of the least built up islands along the Dalmatian Coast.

TrogirImage by neufal54 from Pixabay

The southerly part of the Dalmatian Coast is where you'll see palm trees and olive groves along the ribbon of Adriatic blue, but the grey cliffs and peaks are still right behind the coast. This is also where you'll find Dubrovnik. A favourite of famous aesthete Elizabeth Taylor, Dubrovnik's sheltered, emerald harbour, 13th century walled town and its Stradun, said to be one of the world's most beautiful main streets, are endlessly enchanting. It sounds over the top, but you'll see...

Whether you fancy the north or the sounth, if you're going to visit during the busy summer months, the 20 best hotels on the Dalmatian Coast will get booked up well in advance. So either get organised and plan ahead, or come in the quieter months when this beautiful region is far less crowded!

For a romantic stay

Hotel Adriatic Orebic

  • Hotel Adriatic Orebic is a wonderful adults-only hideaway on the Peljesac Peninsula. It offers just six spacious, luxurious rooms in a beautifully restored heritage building overlooking the sea. The waterfront restaurant is ideal for candlelit dinners (accompanied by wines from the owner's vineyard) and there's even a little private beach.
  • The Villa Dubrovnik is certainly luxurious enough for Elizabeth Taylor. With private beach, private ocean view balconies, excellent Mediterranean restaurant and the possibility of having a hot tub on your balcony means it's probably luxurious enough for anyone!
  • The Grand Villa Argentina is a stunning villa turned 127 room hotel positioned right on Dubrovnik’s waterfront. It’s has a private beach as well as a full service spa and three excellent restaurants, two pools and lush gardens.
  • The Judita Palace is a gorgeous, romantic property near Diocletian's Mausoleum in Split's main square. Beautiful rooms have exposed stone walls and classic decor and some boast wonderful Old Town views.

For a boutique hotel

Boutique Hotel Kazbek

  • Once a castle holiday home, now a 13 room boutique hotel, the Boutique Hotel Kazbek is on the bay of Lapad and has stunning rooms and suites benefitting from the castle’s original features. There’s also a fantastic restaurant and pool.
  • The Almayer Art and Heritage Hotel is an historic property turned boutique hotel in the centre of Zadar. This chic spot has just nine rooms which are up to the minute modern, and you've easy access to both sea and sights!

The Best Waterfront Hotels on the Dalmatian Coast

Brown Beach House

  • For a top notch stay on Trogir's waterfront, we recommend the Brown Beach House. Its 25 rooms and suites are light and bright, plus you'll find a huge pool and excellent Mediterranean restaurant.
  • For a Dubrovnik property that's right on the sea, we'd recommend the Hotel Kompas. Slightly out of town, it's an ultra modern property with chic rooms, state of the art spa, plus choice of bars and restaurants.

For Families

Stradun Apartments

  • Traditional and elegant, the Hotel Bastion is just a few minutes from Zadar's old town and built into the city's ramparts. And with some of its traditionally elegant rooms sleeping up to four, this is also a great option for families.
  • Just outside Zadar is the family friendly Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera, a superb contemporary property with gorgeous ocean views, a state of the art spa and activities for all ages.
  • The Stradun Apartments are a collection of boutique style apartments in Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Light and airy, with contemporary decor, each apartment sleeps up to four, and offers all the mod. cons. plus the measure of staying in a 17th century townhouse.
  • Split’s Divota Apartment Hotel is a stylish collection of rooms, apartments and a three bedroom house, it is perfectly situated for exploring the city.

For an Escape!

Hotel Ola

  • Just outside Trogir, the adults only Hotel Ola is a romantic treat with rejuvenating spa and epic sea views. Plus there's a good restaurant and activities aplenty.
  • To the south of Dubrovnik, Cavtat is a good choice if you want to escape the crowds and have easy airport access. Villa Pattiera is a traditional property offering simple but spacious accommodation within walking distance of the beach.

Chic Hotels on the Dalmatian Coast

The Byron

  • Glass fronted, state of the art Hotel Bellevue has fresh and neutral interiors with spectacular views and an excellent spa.
  • The Excelsior Hotel is situated a stone's throw from Dubrovnik's Old Town. It's a modern property with exceptional views both over the Adriatic and Dubrovnik's Old Town. Plus there's an excellent spa and seafront restaurant.
  • The Hotel Vestibul Palace is situated in the heart of Split’s Diocletian Palace. Luxury combined with contemporary interiors located bang in the centre of the Old Town.
  • Heritage Hotel 19 offers seven beautifully renovated rooms with plenty of original features, yet a fresh contemporary feel, right in the heart of Split.
  • The Byron is a stunning property situated right beside Dubrovnik Cathedral. Its four rooms offer chic minimal decor that effortlessly blend period and contemporary features. All also provide little kitchenettes for those who'd prefer to stay in!

For a B&B

Grgur Ninski Rooms

  • St Joseph's is a gorgeous property set within the walls of Dubrovnik's Old Town. Luxurious rooms ooze elegance and sophistication - perfect for a romantic break.
  • The Villa Allure of Dubrovnik is a stunning little guesthouse hotel with nine contemporary rooms with elegant decor and wonderful sea views from sprawling terraces. There is a pool and you’re only a short walk from the beach.
  • Grgur Ninski Rooms is a smart B&B situated inside Split's Diocletian Palace. Rooms are a lovely mix of period and contemporary features and breakfast is served at a cafe down the road.

For great value

Hotel Marmont

  • Split’s Hotel Marmont is close to both the seafront and the heart of the Old Town. It boasts contemporary chic rooms encased in a beautiful 15th century shell, plus outside terrace and busy cocktail bar.
  • The Amoret Apartments are a collection of traditional apartments located just five minutes walk from Buza Beach with wonderful views over Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Each apartment has a kitchenette, wi-fi and extra beds. From around £65 per night.
  • Who says cheap accommodation has to be grotty? At Split’s Design Hostel Goli + Bosi you'll find a range of incredibly inexpensive yet stylish rooms. Plus a fantastic pizzeria! Prices start from just €20 per person if you're in one of the dorms.

If you haven't found your perfect property on our Guru's list of the Best Hotels on the Dalmatian Coast you could:

The 20 Best Hotels on the Dalmatian Coast

The 20 Best Hotels on the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

Villa Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik

A beautiful Five Star hotel crafted by local architects from the rock face in Dubrovnik. Designer rooms, suites, and villas are contemporary with sea facing balconies, some with private hot tubs. Excellent restaurant, pool, spa, private rocky beach, and lots of privacy. Romantic luxury.

  • Views - Fabulous views over the Adriatic and of the old city.
  • Families - 2 villas sleep 6 each.
  • 5* Luxury
  • Beach Life
from $139 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Bellevue, Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik

State of the art glass hotel set in the cliff face in central Dubrovnik. Contemporary designer rooms, family suites, and suites have neutral tones, all the high techery and private balconies. Two restaurants, excellent spa, and immediate access to all the sights. A luxury spot, very family friendly.

  • Beach Life
  • Families
  • Restaurant - Fine dining restaurant and beach restaurant
  • Sights nearby - Easy walking distance of the Old Town
from $170 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa Pattiera

Cavtat (Cavtat)

A good choice for a less touristic holiday on the Dalmatian coastline. A traditional hotel in the town of Cavtat within striking distance of the beach. Simple, but very spacious, rooms have parquet floors and mahogany furnishings. A bit off the beaten track, but better value.

  • Traditional - All rooms are furnished with antiques and have oak floors.
  • Restaurant - Traditional Dalmation and Mediterranean specialities
  • Sights nearby - 40 mins to Dubrovnik by boat taxi
  • Sailing
from $124 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Bastion

Zadar

A good four star option a few minutes from Zadar's old town. Traditional elegant rooms, some sleep up to 4, with subtle lighting, rich fabrics, and wallpapered walls. Excellent restaurant and terrace, spa and business room. A good choice for any traveller.

  • Sights nearby - Located on the peninsula close to all major attractions
  • Lively - Zadar is know for its nightlife and bar scene
  • Restaurant - Serves Mediterranean cuisine
  • Local markets
from $130 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Villa Allure of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik

A stunning little guesthouse-hotel. Contemporary classic rooms have four poster beds, beige tones, and elegant furniture. Wonderful sea views from sprawling terraces, swimming pool, and walking distance to the beach, restaurants, and Dubrovnik's stunning Old Town.

  • Views - Stuning views over the Mediterranean and Dubrovnik Old Town
  • Beach Life
  • Sights nearby - Close to Dubrovnik's historic old town
  • Swimming Pool -
from $209 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Falkensteiner Hotel & Spa Iadera

Zadar

A fabulous contemporary spa hotel on the Petrcane peninsula. Panoramic ocean views, a state of the art spa covering two floors, fantastic Dalmatian cuisine, and charming nautical themed rooms and suites with all the mod cons. A sophisticated choice for a spa and beach holiday, family friendly too.

  • Foodies - Dalmatian specialities in two restaurants.
  • Spa breaks - A two floor state of the art spa.
  • Families - Plenty of children's activities.
  • Views
from $229 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Boutique Hotel Kazbek

Dubrovnik

A luxury boutique castle hotel, previously a holiday home, in the heritage bay of Lapad. Stunning rooms and suites, traditional in style with wooden beamed ceilings and attractive furnishings. Fantastic regional restaurant, pool and courtyard, and a speedboat to hire.

  • Sights nearby - Dubrovnik old city - take the cable car to the view point above Dubrovnik - a must!
  • Short break - 30 mins from Dubrovnik airport- beautiful views
  • Traditional - The summer house of a Croatian noble family.
  • Sea Views - From the terrace of the marina
from $224 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Marmont

Split

An old-town hotel perfect for the cultural explorer. 21 minimalist chic rooms with kingsize beds and big bathrooms. Many historic sights, day trips, and lots of beach life. A sumptuous seaside spot for couples.

  • Historic - Mediterranean side streets and the Sveti Duje Cathedral
  • Romantic Break - Situated in the UNESCO-listed old town of Split
  • Designer - Minimalist furniture and bathrooms
  • Sailing - Ultra Sailing
from $147 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Stradun Apartments

Dubrovnik

A boutique collection of apartments in the Old Town. Light, airy, and contemporary decoration within a 17th century townhouse. Each suite has all the mod cons, including DVD players, and a kitchenette. A great option for a family or a couple for a summer beach holiday or a winter retreat.

  • Families - Each apartment sleeps up to 4.
  • Beach Life
  • Honeymoons
  • Sailing - Take a boat to Elaphiti islands - Kolocep, Lopud or Sipan - for walking, swimming, sunbathing.
from $110 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Amoret Apartments

Dubrovnik

Traditional apartments, excellent value, just a five minute walk from Buza beach. Apartments have kitchenettes, extra beds, wifi, and wonderful city views over the Old Town. Rooms are rather antique but offer unbeatable rates. Ideal for anyone on a budget, very convenient too.

  • Views - Stunning views over the Old Town.
  • Value chic
  • Sights nearby - Dubrovnik's Old Town is a highlight.
  • Kayaking - Adriatic Kayak Tours.
from $80 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Divota Apartment Hotel

Split

A renovated stone town house with a collection of contemporary chic rooms, studio apartments and one house. Interiors are all white with wooden floors, kitchens, sitting rooms and all the mod cons. Superb location in the thick of all the attractions. Stylish and family friendly.

  • Private Hot Tub - Book the three bed villa and get your own private terrace with hot tub
  • Sights nearby - Unesco-listed Diocletian's Palace, Cathedral of St. Duje.
  • Sailing - Catch a boat to Hvar, Vis, or Pag.
  • Birdwatching
from $125 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Vestibul Palace

Split

A traditional Dalmatian house with chic minimal interiors in central Split. Rooms and suites have original stone walls, big sky lights, white walls, and sparse furnishings. Good Mediterranean restaurant and walking distance to all the attractions. A stylish spot for Split.

  • Local exploring - From Split you are able to explore the Croatian islands, such as Korcula, Hvar, Vis.
  • Sights nearby - St Domnius Cathedral, ruins at Saloma, the capital of the Roman province of Dalmatia.
  • Restaurant - Mediterranean cuisine with strong Dalmatian influences.
  • Traditional
from $296 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Design Hostel Goli + Bosi

Split

Fantastically modern hostel from a newly renovated 19th century warehouse. A range of modern minimal rooms, dorm-style rooms, and suites provide excellent value accommodation for families and groups of friends. Simple but delicious pizzeria and access to all the sights.

  • Groups - Three and four person dorm-style rooms perfect for groups of friends.
  • Contemporary - Superbly contemporary and minimal rooms all in white.
  • Value chic
  • Traditional - An old 19th century warehouse conversion.
from $21 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Judita Palace Hotel

Split

A romantic hotel just near Diocletian's Mausoleum. Beautiful rooms and suites have stone walls, creamy furnishings, wooden floors and all the mod cons. Charming terrace, sitting room, library and restaurant. A stylish spot for a stop-over in Split.

  • Sights nearby - Diocletian’s Palace, Peristyle and Diocletian’s Mausoleum.
  • Romantic
  • Views
  • Sailing
from $288 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Grand Villa Argentina

Dubrovnik

A stunning Dalmatian villa sits on the waterfront with breathtaking views, its own private beach, and a full service spa. Rooms and suites, slightly traditional, but very luxurious with private balconies. Three excellent restaurants, beauty salon, spa treatments, two pools, and picturesque gardens.

  • Spa breaks - A full service garden-view spa.
  • Views - Fabulous views from all angles.
  • Foodies - Three excellent restaurants.
  • Romantic Break
from $293 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Grgur Ninski Rooms

Split (Dioklecijanova ul. 8)

A chic bed and breakfast located inside Diocletian's Palace in Split. Rooms contrast old and new with exposed stone walls, minimalist white-on-white décor, and contemporary furnishings. Breakfast is served at a nearby cafe. The perfect place to soak up the city's history and architecture.

  • Local exploring - Located within the Palace, it's in the heart of the Old Town with tourist attractions, restaurants and cafes around.
  • Value chic - Great value for money considering its cool interiors and superb location inside a UNESCO world heritage monument.
  • Writing a novel - Be inspired by all the history around you! Writing desks in rooms.
  • Sights nearby - Gregory of Nin and the Cathedral of St. Domnius are both moments away from the hotel.
from $63 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
St Joseph's

Dubrovnik

A stunning 16th century guesthouse set within the walls of Dubrovnik's old town. The luxurious rooms are appointed with style and elegance, fittingly paying tribute to the city's rich culture and heritage. Surrounded by the old town's enchanting streets, it's the perfect place for a romantic break.

  • Local exploring - Right in the heart the UNESCO-protected Walls of Old Town Dubrovnik, and only minutes from the Stradun Promenade.
  • Romantic Break - An enchanting escape for two- the elegant and stylish suites are steeped in romance and history.
  • Sights nearby - The old walls of Dubrovnik, Onofrio's Fountain and the Franciscan Monastery Dubrovnik are all with two minutes walk.
  • Sailing - This hotel serves as a perfect stopping point on a sailing trip around the Dalmatian coast.
from $209 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Kompas

Dubrovnik

A stylish ultra modern hotel, with a spectacular seaside positioning. Hotel Kompas offers guests a first-class staying experience from chic rooms, to superb vistas, atmospheric bars, an excellent restaurant and a deluxe spa. Perfect for simply relaxing or exploring Dubrovnik.

  • Local exploring - Ideally placed for exploring the enchanting city of Dubrovnik and the stunning surrounding Dalmatian Coast.
  • Beach Life - A romantic hotel in a sheltered bay on the Lapad peninsular, perfect for a seaside escape.
  • Fishing - The hotel can organise sea fishing trips for guests.
  • Sights nearby - Fifteen minutes bus ride from Dubrovnik old town.
from $175 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Heritage Hotel 19

Split

A charming boutique property in the centre of historic Split. Beautifully renovated rooms keep their original charm yet have a fresh contemporary feel. Indulgent breakfasts are served in the lobby overlooking the courtyard which later turns into an honesty bar. A delightful base to explore the town.

  • Local exploring - Ideally placed on a quiet cobblestreet just a short walk from the town's main attractions.
  • Great walks - Take long walks through the cypress and Mediterranean pine tree forest just outside Split.
  • Sights nearby - Wander through the Diocletian's Palace and view the St Domnius Cathedral.
  • Full of character
from $180 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Brown Beach House

Trogir

A boutique hotel offering chic accommodation and glorious sea views. The rooms and suites are light and bright with pale wooden floors, large windows and luxurious marble bathrooms. The terrace restaurant serves up exemplary Mediterranean dishes and there's an enormous pool overlooking the sea.

  • Local exploring - Ideally placed on the coast and just a short distance from Trogir's medieval old town.
  • Sailing - Charter a boat and explore the coastline stopping for swims along the way.
  • Diving - Explore the numerous diving sites full of coral, sponge and sealife.
  • Sights nearby - Visit the stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trogir Cathedral.
from $300 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
The Byron

Dubrovnik

A lovely 17th century guesthouse in the heart of the Old Town set just by the cathedral. Rooms are bright with chic minimal decor, an up-cycled feel and have little kitchenettes for self-catering. Hosts are hands-on and very welcoming, providing guests with indulgent breakfasts and top local tips!

  • Local exploring - This prime location in Dubrovnik's Old Town is a great choice for guests interested in discovering the city's many attractions
  • Great walks - Walk the city walls- the easiest and most popular itinerary for visitors to Dubrovnik is the stroll around its fortifications
  • Sights nearby - Of all the Old Town treasures, the Franciscan Monastery and its Old Pharmacy Museum are the real gems
  • Local markets - The oldest market in Dubrovnik is located in the prominent, baroque square of Gundulićeva poljana
from $305 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Hotel Ola

Trogir (Seget Donji)

A stylish adult-only hotel offering a rejuvenating retreat with spa, sauna and multitude of in-house treatments. Located on a beautiful stretch of Croatian coast, rooms boast breathtaking sea-views. This stunning ocean spot provides activities ranging from sailing to local village exploration.

  • Beach Life - Located just a couple of hundred metres from the sea plus sea taxis are accessible to transport you to nearby secluded spots
  • Romantic Break - This adult-only hotel offers chic rooms with breathtaking sea-views, infinity pool and terraced dining
  • Active Holiday - One-day sailing trips on the hotel's own boat can be arranged, as can hikes, biking and guided tours
  • Foodies - Black Pepper restaurant offers a range of fresh, local ingredients as well as paleo diet recipes
from $153 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Almayer Art and Heritage Hotel

Zadar (23000 Zadar)

This intimate hotel of just nine rooms is in a beautifully renovated 19th-century building. The classical exterior is juxtaposed with stylish, contemporary design. Chic rooms are decorated in earthy hues and feature polished concrete floors and large oil paintings. An undeniably cool spot.

  • Beach Life - Located on a sea-port, swimming spots and sea views are endless plus ferries run from a nearby port to neighbouring islands
  • Local exploring - A perfect location in the heart of Zadar means cathedrals, Roman forums, restaurants and nightlife is all on your doorstep
  • Sailing - Hop on one of the ferries that run from nearby ports and spend a day exploring the surrounding islands
  • Sights nearby - Visit Zadar's famous sea-front art installations Greetings to the Sun and Sea Organ
from $101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia
Hotel Adriatic Orebic

Orebic

A beautifully restored seafront heritage hotel in the centre of Orebic. Six spacious individually designed rooms are a charming blend of original features and luxurious creature comforts. The Stari Kapetan restaurant comes highly recommended and there's even a little private beach. Adult only heaven

  • Romantic Break - With only six luxurious rooms, fab sea views, a great restaurant and no children allowed it's ideal for couples
  • Beach Life - With its sea views, waterfront restaurant and little private beach this is an intimate beach getaway
  • Local exploring - As well as exploring the immediate area, you are well placed for a quick hop over to Korcula
  • Restaurant - The waterfront restaurant serves delicious dishes made from the freshest local seafood and organic produce
from $100 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Sarah Empson

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