Top 5 Hotels to Visit in Croatia

Narrowing down Croatia's booming hotel industry to just five top contenders is a tall order. There are numerous first-rate Croatia hotels that deliver unique and pleasant accommodations. In honor of the eclectic and impressive mix of lodging facilities available there, these top five hotel choices should provide reliable accommodation options for Croatia vacations of all budgets and interests.

Hotel Waldinger -- Osijek, Croatia

The Hotel Waldinger is the best small hotel to stay at in Osijek, an intriguing city still rebuilding from the 1991 war. Fully renovated in 2004, the Hotel Waldinger gracefully combines chic furnishings with a Secessionist-style atmosphere. Guest rooms are pleasantly over-sized and attractive. Other perks of this favorite Croatian hotel are the English-speaking staff, a video-monitored free parking lot and private first-floor dining room. The Hotel Waldinger is also ideally located close to the city's main attractions, including the banks of the Drava, the medieval Tvra and the city market.

Valsabbion Hotel -- Pula, Croatia

Pamper yourself at the Valsabbion Hotel in Pula. This small hotel features just seven rooms and three suites, providing an open, yet personal and romantic environment. The great location puts you close to the major tourist attraction in town -- the beach. When not sunbathing on the coast, you can relax in the hotel's fabulous full-service spa. To complete your hotel experience, treat yourself to one of the best meals in the country at the Valsabbion's on-site restaurant. Dine on such delicacies as olive tapenade, fish mousses and scampi rolled in Istrian Ham.

The Regent Esplanade Hotel -- Zagreb, Croatia

Centrally located in the heart of Zagreb, the Regent Esplanade delivers an ultra luxurious hotel experience. Constructed in an appealing Art Nouveau style, you will delight in polished mahogany furniture and marbled bathrooms. Enticing amenities include a health and fitness center where you can enjoy a massage, relax in a sauna or steam room or work up a sweat in the fully equipped gym. A contemporary restaurant, round-the-clock room service, valet parking and knowledgeable hotel staff are also available at the Regent Esplanade.

Hilton Imperial Hotel -- Dubrovnik, Croatia

The best American hotel available in Dubrovnik is undoubtedly the Hilton Imperial. Renovated from an historic 19th-century building, the Hilton Imperial delivers one of the best picturesque hotel views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Coast. With grand luxury and refinement dripping from every corner of the hotel, you'll be well taken care of here. International cuisine can be enjoyed at the delicious Porat Restaurant. At night, the hotel bar transforms into a lively piano bar with live music, cocktails and appetizers. Other amenities include a health club, business center and laundry facilities.

Miramar Hotel -- Opatija, Croatia

One of the most unique Croatia hotel experiences can be found at the Miramar Hotel in Opatija. Nestled on the shoreline with a breathtaking view of the sea, this grand hotel will surely remind you of a large-scale and lavish sand castle. The spectacular spa is the main attraction at the Miramar, with a seawater pool, sauna and salon all available to you. Distinguished travelers will also enjoy the elegant restaurant, expansive bathrooms and close proximity to the city's main attractions. In fact, the turreted Villa Neptune -- a favorite Opatija landmark -- is actually part of the hotel's structure.