Best Design Hotels in Croatia

Lešić Dimitri Palace stands at the heart of the medieval town of Korcula, overlooking the sparkling Adriatic sea. Marco Polo travelled far and wide, but his roots were in this town. Inspired by his travels, the Palace was lovingly restored and now offers Croatia’s most exclusive coastal accommodation. Guests can spend the afternoon relaxing at the spa, take the establishment’s sailing boat out for a spin, or lose themselves in the magical streets of Old Town. Indian, Chinese, Arabic, and Ceylon themed accommodation is available for those seeking an exotic ambience.

When Croatia is calling, don’t stray your perfect stay off course when all your cardinal directions are leading you to Hotel Navis, the most beautiful destination of your trip. Situated on the curve of Plaža Preluk in the seaside resort town of Opatija, known for its historic buildings and relaxing vacation atmosphere, Hotel Navis provides the first-class service that makes those vacation dreams magical for every party involved. With 40 designer-decorated rooms and four suites – all equipped with their own terrace and sea view – as well as a spa centre, outdoor heated pool, and an à la carte restaurant, Hotel Navis ensures that your stay is smooth and relaxing, allowing you to let go of normal life and destress in somewhere new. And when you’re not soaking up the treatments, you can find helpful advice and perfect recommendations for exploring the beautiful Opatija at Hotel Navis’ 24-hour reception, including the wooded slopes of Mount Učka, early settler caves or even abandoned WW2 bunkers. For wanderlust travellers or family relaxation, the ‘N’ on your Croatia compass stands for Navis.

The Keight Hotel Opatija, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, is a haven of luxury in the coastal Croatian town. Boasting a rooftop deck with a swimming pool, two bars, a restaurant, and a spa, not only is this boutique hotel a great base to explore the fashionable resort but a place to enjoy wellness and relaxation. Each of the hotel’s 54 guest rooms features beautiful views, modern amenities and quality finishings expansive windows that frame views of the town’s red-tiled rooftops. Conveniently located just a short walk from Slatina Beach, guests can spend the day by the turquoise sea before returning to the comfort of the hotel and its excellent amenities.

Overlooking the waterfront and just ten minutes on foot from the city’s main attractions, the AC Marriott is a great base for exploring Split. The Adriatic vista is enjoyed by all 214 bedrooms, which have marble bathrooms, soundproofing and a minimal, clean-lined aesthetic. Laureto is an international a la carte restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. And 178 SPA is the hotel’s serene white sanctuary in the sky, where hanging chairs offer views of the city, sea and islands through its wall of full-height windows. The spa also has an indoor pool, a whirlpool, a steam room, a sauna, treatment rooms and a fitness centre.

Stay just a stone’s throw from the Old Town by booking one of 156 rooms at the Cornaro Hotel. It’s housed across three heritage buildings, one of which used to be the city’s main post office. Inside, the decor is modern yet classic, making use of earthy tones and complemented by monochrome photography of Split. It has two restaurants, King Tomislav and Nodilo, a rooftop bar with hot tub and views across to the sea, plus a further basement wine bar. There’s also a spa, fitness centre and bike concierge services for cyclists. Pets and children are made very welcome at the Cornaro Hotel.

Families holidaying in the area will appreciate the Grand Park Hotel’s dedicated kids’ club and proximity to nearby Mulini Beach. But it holds plenty of appeal for those seeking a sophisticated stay too. Pierro Lossini has designed the modern interiors –  wood, polished concrete and glass feature heavily and there’s an array of fashionable, high-end shops on the ground floor. Head up to the 50-metre rooftop infinity pool (which continues indoors to the Albaro Wellness & Spa), where you can enjoy woodland views from the plush lounger and beanbag strewn deck. Or if you need an escape from the heat of the day, sample the thermal suite’s cool plunge pool and ice fall shower.

As the city’s oldest hotel, this building dates back to 1892. However, it underwent a trendy renovation in 2015, contrasting the grand period facade. Adriatic’s prime location, right on the edge of the harbour is one of the many reasons to book, alongside its beautiful artworks, French Riviera-inspired brasserie and cafe bar serving one of the land’s finest selections of whiskies. A boutique atmosphere is maintained with just 18 large and luxe suites, each with attractive views. And while there are limited wellness facilities on-site, guests have access to nearby Hotel Lone’s indoor and outdoor pools, as well as the spa.

Luxury waterside hotel Set on Dubrovnik’s Lapad peninsular, this luxurious waterside hotel features 308 rooms with contemporary décor as well as a range of impressive amenities. Guests are treated to private access to the charming rock-and-concrete beach, while there are two outdoor swimming pools in the hotel complex as well as a huge spa and a tennis court. There are four ultra-luxurious suites to choose from in the VIP wing including the magnificent Presidential suite.

People who want to spend time truly unwinding are sure to love this luxurious establishment. The Grand Park Hotel and Spa is famous for its excellent wellness centre where there are numerous treatments to choose from that are sure to make guests feel fantastic from head to toe. The hotel is set on its own private marina right next to the picturesque Mulini Beach and this is the perfect place to soak up the sun. Each of the rooms comes complete with its own balcony or terrace and guests should secure an ocean facing room.

Known for its historic buildings amidst the Mediterranean climate, Opatija in Croatia boasts the Bevanda Hotel, the first 5-star boutique hotel in the Northern Adriatic where traditional Kvarner enogastronomic heritage meets modern-day luxury. Hotel Bevanda has 10 sophisticatedly furnished rooms which are each uniquely named after famous people who have stayed in the town throughout history, including the Deluxe Suite and Superior Dvokrevetna Soba, where you can find that final bit of comfort to your idyllic stay in Croatia. In addition to this, Hotel Bevanda provides additional services, such as trips to nearby islands with their very own speedboat, wellness programmes, and even shuttle services to and from the nearby airports, creating an all-rounded experience so you do not have to lift a finger. Whether you need a break away or are creating family memories in the beautiful and historic town of Opatija, Hotel Bevanda could be your new home away from home.

Situated on the West Coast promenade in the centre of Split, Hotel Ambassador Split offers a serene waterfront retreat overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This luxury boutique hotel blends modern elegance with Mediterranean minimalism, featuring 98 stylish rooms and two suites, which are tastefully designed spaces equipped with contemporary amenities. Established in 1937, the hotel is renowned for its unique reception desk, a 1,850-year-old piece made from black oak discovered in the Sava River. Guests enjoy exceptional service from the in-house team, known as “Diplomats,” who provide tailored assistance, including recommendations on local attractions and activities. The hotel also features Restaurant Méditerranée, which serves gourmet Mediterranean dishes and fine wines, and the Hacelia Spa, offers guests a range of soothing treatments and place to relax.

The Isolano, Cres, Autograph Collection is a boutique coastal retreat set within a pine grove overlooking the Adriatic Sea. The hotel features 49 elegantly designed rooms and suites, all with private balconies and sea views, including four suites and five infinity rooms with direct pool access. Restaurant Moise offers fine dining inspired by local Adriatic flavours, while the bar serves signature cocktails crafted with regional ingredients. Guests can unwind in two outdoor heated pools, an extensive spa, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Designed by Kristina Zanic, the interiors blend locally sourced stone, handcrafted wooden furniture, and island-inspired artwork, reflecting Mediterranean charm. Unique experiences include an island-inspired mixology workshop, where guests create their own Isolano botanical blend. Located just a 10-minute walk from Cres Town, the hotel provides easy access to historic landmarks, nature reserves, and secluded beaches, with Rijeka Airport reachable via a 20-minute ferry ride.