Best Value Hotels in Croatia

The Split Apartments-Peric are a collection of five flats set on a residential block 10 minutes' walk from Split's pretty, historic Old Town. Although most of the interiors feel dated, they're all perfectly clean and fully equipped for a self-catering stay. Only sleeping two or three people each, the apartments are ideal for couples or small families on a budget, though they are set a bit away from the tourist center. If this isn't an issue they're a great, no-frills, good-value option.

The Berkeley Hotel checks all the boxes within its rating category, and its affordability is another plus. The venue stands out among other three-pearl hotels in the area due to its various leisure and sporting boats (skippers included) that can be rented out and taken on private excursions. Apart from the Gruz Harbor ferry terminal, the location isn't convenient for tourists without cars, though nearby public transportation makes the rest of Dubrovnik easily accessible. The room furnishings and bathrooms have been updated, and the free breakfast spread is better than most.

The Apartments Gajeta are nine simple, nicely finished apartments dotted around residential buildings in the center of Split. All apartments include well-equipped kitchens, lounges, and dining areas, without much in the way of fuss and frills -- perfectly functional and adequate for a couple self-catering days while you explore the area. A far cheaper option than the hotels in town, these apartments offer a great deal for families and groups on a budget.

The 338-room Valamar Club is a mid-range, family-focused holiday resort set on the north shore of Dubrovnik's Babin Kuk peninsula. Children are indeed particularly well catered for with a wide range of kids' clubs and entertainment programs, plus a basketball court and beach volleyball court. An all-inclusive option makes life easier (and cheaper) for families too, while nearby beaches mean not all the time has to be spent around the big, impressive pool. Like the property as a whole, rooms are basic, functional, and perfectly adequate -- and reasonable rates reflect this.

The 155-room Hotel Lero is a modern, mid-range hotel that out-punches its weight on several levels. Renovations have given a smart, contemporary aspect to the property, while a fully equipped spa and attractive pool are rare for this caliber of hotel. Rooms have flat-screen TVs, minibars, and modern bathrooms, and decor you'd associate with a pricier option -- some even have sea views. The location isn't ideal for exploring the Old Town, but for the rates (that include breakfast) you'd be hard-pressed to find a better deal.