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Don't let the idyllic exterior fool you. Croatians know how to party! That's why backpackers and digital nomads enjoy partying in Croatia. Croatia nightclubs run the gamut – from low-key bars to buzzing dance clubs.
To make it easy planning your itinerary, we've broken down the top destinations for nightlife in Croatia per city.
Split Croatia Nightlife
During the day, Split is known as the cultural hub of Croatia. This city is home to one of the most breathtaking UNESCO sites in the country – the Diocletian Palace. But what do you do after you've checked out the cultural and historical sites? There's plenty, actually.
Split is a popular destination for young tourists looking for the best that the nightlife in Croatia has to offer. Some of the top bars and clubs in Croatia can be found in Split. Just head to Riva, a popular promenade, and you'll find a great selection of nightlife destinations like bars and cocktail joints.
1. ShotGun Shooters Bar
This bar is small, but it has an excellent atmosphere. Start your amazing nightlife experience in Split at this tiny joint known for its tasty selection of shooters and drinks. The best part is that their drinks come at a reasonable price, whether you opt for the shooters or their long drinks. You come here for the drinks and stay for the music and the party.
ShotGun Shooters Bar is open daily from 8 PM to 1 AM (or until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
2. Marvlvs Library Jazz Bar
This jazz bar is touted by many tourists as one of the best in Split, Croatia. It is easy to spot because it is located within the UNESCO site Diocletian's Palace.
This bar offers a cozy atmosphere and a vibe much different than the one above. It is recommended for anyone looking for nightlife in Croatia that is chill and laid-back. The bar is stocked with some of the best quality wines with an equally friendly staff.
It's the ideal place to go for those who are interested in learning about history, music, and Croatian culture. The bar is named after Marcvs Marvlvs, known as the Father of Croatian literature. It is open daily from 5 PM to 12 AM.
3. Taboo Beach Bar
Another unique destination for nightlife in Croatia is Taboo Beach Bar. As soon as the sun sets, brace yourself for a lively party with lots of music and dancing.
The beach bar is decked out in an all-white ambiance. They also have private cabanas, beach beds, and high tables. As soon as the sun goes down, this beach bar transforms into a lively party spot. There is a DJ that plays upbeat music to keep the atmosphere going. You can dance the night away or delight in their delicious selection of food items.
It has all the features you are looking for in a destination when partying in Croatia. Taboo Beach Bar also hosts events throughout the year, especially during the summer months. Don't miss them!
4. Cocktail Bar GAGA
Only a two-minute walk away from Diocletian's Palace, Cocktail Bar GAGA shouldn't be missing from your list of Croatia clubs to check out. This bar is one of the hidden gems in Split since it is tucked away in an alleyway.
Once you're in there, the atmosphere welcomes you with its lively scene filled with great music. It has a cool party atmosphere and a decent selection of drinks – from spirits to mixes. They also have outdoor seating if you happen to drop by on a packed day!
Zagreb Croatia Nightlife
Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia and is notable for its Astro-Hungarian architecture. The center of the city is home to several historical sites, including the Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark's Church. It is your quintessential Central European destination with many highlights such as captivating architecture, outstanding natural scenery, and lots of culture and history.
However, in Zagreb, Croatia, the nightlife is also well worth the visit. This city is filled with fun and parties that never stop!
5. Boogaloo
As curious as the name of this place is, this is one of the top party places in Zagreb, Croatia. This is a former movie theater that was transformed into a live music venue featuring local bands.
This nightlife destination is a fantastic choice for those who are fans of techno and punk music. However, there are also themed shows, so make sure to keep a tab on who's performing before you go.
6. Booze and Blues
This bar in Zagreb is open until 2 AM on weekends (and midnight on any other day of the week, except Sunday). It's not as wild as some other Croatia cubs, but it appeals to those who like a laid-back night while enjoying their favorite drinks and cocktails. There is live music, which (as you can tell by the name) is mostly blues and mellow jazz.
The drinks are reasonably priced, and it has excellent customer service.
7. Aquarius
No list of the best Zagreb Croatia nightlife destinations would be complete without a mention of Aquarius club. This nightclub in Croatia is known for its picturesque backdrop – the Jarun Lake. It is a two-story party house that can fill up to 2,000 people, which it manages to max out during weekends.
The DJ plays lively music across all genres that keep the party going until the wee hours of the morning. It also hosts many events, so make sure to check it out when you are in Zagreb.
8. Night Club & Rock Bar Alcatraz
If you are looking for an "alternative" destination for nightlife in Croatia, this is it. It features a unique vibe and ambiance. Either way, you will enjoy the great food and drinks served here. There is also cool music played by the DJ in the background. The bartenders are personable, too.
If you are looking for a buzzing destination for a late-night drink, don't miss Night Club & Rock Bar Alcatraz in Zagreb.
Dubrovnik Croatia Nightlife
Dubrovnik is a Croatian city facing the Adriatic Sea. It is called the walled city because of the distinctive massive stone walls that surround the Old Town. Aside from the walls, it is also filled with many historic buildings and monuments.
While there is a lack of quantity in the nightlife in Zagreb, it sure does make up for it with the quality of options.
9. Banje Beach Restaurant and Nightclub
Can you picture yourself chilling out on the beach at night in Dubrovnik? Stop imagining because you can head straight to Banje for a happening sunset party. This stylish bar offers some of the best food, cocktails, and views you can find in the city in one awesome package.
This place is the best example of why Croatia nightlife is considered one of Europe's best.
10. Culture Club Revelin
Set in a medieval fortress, this is a lively party spot worth going to Dubrovnik for. This club also closes late, so it is the perfect choice for anyone who has the energy to dance the night away. The great architecture of its location is only outdone by its lively music played by some of the best local DJs.
This nightclub opens at 10:30 PM and stays open until up to 6 AM the next day.
11. Buzz Bar
This Croatia nightlife destination in Dubrovnik is only a 3-minute walk from Rector's Palace. The bar is small, but it is one of the best places to enjoy a nightcap near the Old Town. The drinks-only bar has an impressive selection, and they're reasonably priced, too.
There is music playing in the background that leans toward retro and 90's nostalgia music. This is highly recommended for the older folks or anyone who wants a laid-back night in Dubrovnik.
12. Club Lazareti
If you're looking for the best dance clubs in Croatia, this place is a must-visit. It is located close to the Banje Beach Restaurant and Nightclub, so make your way here if the former is packed already.
Even if it's not, you will still have a fantastic time with the great music and dancing at this former quarantine facility during the Black Plague. It stays open until 4 AM so you have plenty of chance to enjoy dancing here!
Savor the best of Croatia's nightlife with Pilot!
Would you like to experience more of Croatia aside from the nightlife? First, discover if it's safe to travel to Croatia this year, and make sure to add the Sail Croatia cruises to your bucket list. If you are looking for more ideas, you can check out our cheat sheet on the top Europe tours this year.