Croatia's largest and busiest island, Krk Island is an alluring place steeped in history, culture and natural beauty. From the forests in the west to the rocky ridges to the east, it is home to some 10,000 people: the ideal destination for a family seaside holiday, there countless things to do, from scuba diving amongst shipwrecks or sunbathing at the beach, to walking through the charming medieval streets of Vrbnik, learning about the dead "Glagolitic" language to partying in an ancient Roman temple. Our collection of the best places to stay in Krk Island have something for everyone from family-friendly to seaside chic.
Vrbnik
Lying on the east coast, Vrbnik is a charming tangle of a medieval village, far from the madding crowds. There is the famous Kozica Beach - ideal for sunbathing - and a church baring manuscripts of the Glagolitic language, a dead Slavic language. It is also where you can sample the world-renowned Zlahtina wine - a straw-coloured dry white wine.
Krk Town
Krk Town is the largest settlement on the island, and as such boasts some fine seafood restaurants. In the heart of the picturesque town stands the Trg Kamplin - something you won't find on any maps - a series of rounded towers built by the Frankopans, where summer concerts and theatrical performances are held. Be sure to also visit the Cathedral, a gorgeous Romanesque building constructed in the 12th century, where Roman mosaics were found, alluding to the presence of an ancient church. There is also Volsonis - a nightclub - set within an ancient altar of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.
Baska
Baska has the best beaches. But it is also where you will find the Aquarium, teeming with seahorses, grouper fish and morays. Baska is also where the first Glagolitic was written, and in testament to this heritage, 34 sculptures - each representing a letter of the alphabet - stand bright and still like runes.
What not to miss
- Try your hand at wakeboarding or surfing, the best spots lie near Kornic.
- Take a boat ride from Punat out towards the Franciscan monastery - still active - where you can find a 1000 year old Hebrew Bible, and original Glagolitic manuscripts.
- Sample some quality local Zlahtina - a bone-dry white wine.
- Visit the cathedral in Krk Town and admire the early Christian symbolism of birds and the Romanesque style of the architecture.
- Immerse yourself in the Glagolitic language in the parish church of Vrbnik.
- Walk around the aquarium in Baska, admiring the grouper fish and seahorses.
- Fancy a wild and strange nightlife with the Romans? Head to Volsonis - a nightclub set within an ancient Roman altar!
- Take in a summer concert at the Trg Kamplin.
A varied island rich in culture, history and outstanding natural beauty, Krk Island is great for families and couples alike. Fancy going? Check out our list of the best places to stay in Krk Island to start planning your trip.