how much time to visit croatia

18 things you need to know before visiting Croatia

Mar 17, 2024 • 6 min read

Plan the perfect Croatia trip with these top tips © TerryPrince / Getty Images

With its glittering coastline, 1244 islands, endlessly fascinating cities and extraordinarily dramatic landscapes, Croatia has been steadily making its way up people’s must-go lists.

Naturally, tourists are drawn to those beautiful Adriatic beaches that easily hold their own against their Mediterranean rivals. But inland Croatia is just as captivating, from the hilltop villages of Istria to the elegantly buzzing capital, Zagreb .

Don't book your flights just yet though – first, make the most of our planning tips covering everything you need to know about health, safety and etiquette before you go.

1. Don’t overstretch yourself when planning an itinerary

It might be tempting to squeeze in as many destinations as possible into one trip, but you won’t be doing yourself any favors unless you’re staying for at least two weeks. If you’re planning to visit more than one Adriatic island, think realistically about how much time you can spend in each place and how you will be getting around .

Check the schedule of the national ferry operator, Jadrolinija , if you intend to do some island-hopping. Croatia has an extensive bus network, but factor in some long journey times if you’re traveling along the Adriatic coast.

2. Croatia's currency is the euro

Although Croatia joined the EU in 2013, the euro was only introduced as the national currency on the January 1, 2023. The Croatian kuna is no longer in use, and if you happen to have any of the old currency, you'll need to go to the Croatian National Bank to exchange them.

3. Expect to tip at least 10% in restaurants

Croatia’s tipping culture is more laid-back than in other countries. Having said that, it’s customary to leave at least 10% in restaurants and for beauty and spa treatments. In bars and cafes, just round up the bill. Tour guides appreciate a few euros at the end of a tour, and taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but, again, if you want to round up a fare to the next euro, it’s appreciated. If you’re filling up your car and notice a few students cleaning car windscreens, consider giving them a couple of euros as they’re working for tips only.

4. Croatia is generally considered a safe place to travel

Croatia is a safe country with low levels of violent crime. The most prevalent issue for tourists is pickpocketing, but even that’s on a much lower scale than in other European countries. Solo women travelers should be safe on their own, although it’s wise to ask your accommodation provider if there are any areas in the vicinity that are best avoided. When using taxis, all travelers should make certain they’re using a licensed car either from an official taxi rank or ordered from your hotel. Uber operates in most major towns and cities, including Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split .

5. Some caution is recommended for LGBTIQ+ travelers

In this relatively conservative country, homosexuality is tolerated, but LGBTIQ+ travelers should be discreet. Public displays of affection could raise a few eyebrows, and some travelers have experienced hostile reactions. Zagreb’s gay scene is growing, however, and both Zagreb and Split hold Gay Pride festivals every June.

6. Bring some swimming shoes

Most of Croatia’s beaches are pebbly or rocky and can be hard to enjoy in bare feet. Just pick up a pair of those neoprene or plastic swimming shoes you see in all the resorts, and you’ll also be protecting your feet from sea urchins that lurk under rocks and pebbles.

7. Nudity at the beach is pretty standard

Naturist beaches are popular in Croatia, and sometimes you won’t know you’re on one until people start stripping off. Most are marked with FKK – the German phrase “Frei-Körper-Kultur,” meaning free body culture – which isn't surprising as Germans make up some of the biggest numbers of tourists in Croatia. Away from the FKK beaches, topless bathing is quite common.

Local Flavor: Dalmatia

8. Dodge the crowds in Dubrovnik by timing your visit carefully

There could be times when up to 8000 cruise ship passengers might descend on Dubrovnik in one day. That’s the cue to stay away from the Old Town within the city walls until they leave in the late afternoon. Keep an eye on the Dubrovnik Port Authority’s website for cruise arrivals and the online crowd monitoring system that predicts the numbers of visitors.

9. Wi-fi is readily available

Croatia is part of EU roaming, which is handy if you have a contract that allows you to use your data abroad. It’s easy to find wi-fi in cafes and bars – just ask the server for the password ( šifra ).

10. Swimwear is for the beach, not the town

If you’re visiting churches and other sacred sites, keep your shoulders covered and avoid bare thighs. If you’re wearing a hat, take it off when you’re in a church. Even though dress codes are relaxed on the coast, Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar have passed laws against walking around the city in swimwear or bare-chested. Croatians like to dress smartly and take great pride in their appearance, so do as they do and avoid looking scruffy.

11. Don’t get drunk in public

Croatia has developed a reputation as a place to party, which has led to some areas being inundated with badly behaved drunken tourists. After years of enduring this, the mayor of Hvar Town had enough. In 2017, the destination started to issue fines of up to €700 for public drunkenness and things like taking a drunken nap in a public place, such as on a park bench. Split introduced fines of up to €300 in 2023, placing signs in the city center reminding people that public drinking is not allowed, and that no one should be urinating on the walls of Diocletian's Palace .

12. Get to know the Croatian character

Croatians can be quite reserved people, sometimes appearing brusque. It’s nothing personal, which you'll realize when you get to know them better, and the initial reserve melts to reveal a warm and friendly side.

13. Be tactful when talking about Croatia’s war of independence

The 1990s war that splintered the former Yugoslavia is a topic that needs careful handling. If people show a willingness to talk about it, then by all means ask sensible questions. But don’t be intrusive, and bear in mind that Croatians won’t take too kindly to being called either Yugoslav or Balkan. Similarly, in this predominantly Catholic country, be mindful of making loud statements against religion.

14. You can drink the tap water

Tap water in Croatia is perfectly safe and very drinkable, and you can refill your reusable water bottles at public drinking fountains.

15. Keep your lights on if driving during winter months

If you’re driving in Croatia from November to April, it’s compulsory to have your lights on during daylight hours as well as at night.

16. Croatia has occasional earthquakes

Croatia has a history of earthquakes going back centuries, but two recent ones in 2020 caused significant damage. The quake that shook Zagreb damaged thousands of buildings, many of which are in the old town, including the cathedral. Soon after, the city of Petrinja, about an hour’s drive south of Zagreb, was severely damaged in a quake, and aftershocks rippled throughout the region. If an earthquake happens while you're there, follow local guidance.

17. There are still some landmines

There are still parts of the country in the hinterlands of Northern Dalmatia and Lika where landmines remain from the war of independence, but these will be signposted with a skull and crossbones symbol. Don’t go anywhere near them.

18. Take out travel insurance

Dial 112 for general emergencies, 192 for police, and 194 for an ambulance. If you fall ill in Croatia and you're an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK citizen with a Global Health Insurance Card, you’re entitled to a vastly reduced price for health care. But even with this cover, you should still take out travel insurance.

This article was first published May 17, 2022 and updated Mar 17, 2024.

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10 Days in Croatia Itinerary

By: Author Gabi Ancarola

Posted on Last updated: July 7, 2024

Home » Travel » Europe » Croatia » 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary

If you’re planning a multi-day holiday in the Balkans, Croatia is a popular place to visit as it offers tons of entertainment, remarkable cultural experiences, some of the most beautiful beaches in the Adriatic, and natural landscapes that will take your breath away.

Many travelers have fallen in love with Croatia and have visited the country time after time, always discovering a different interesting corner to enjoy.

If you’re curious about what to do in Croatia and wish to experience the best of the country, then this 10-day Croatia itinerary is exactly what you need to plan your trip!

In This Article:

Planning Your 10 Day Visit to Croatia

When is the best time to visit croatia.

With a long coastline and dozens of stunning little islands to visit, summer seems to be the best time to check out Croatia. However, this is also the most popular season , with high prices and fewer options for affordable accommodations.

Besides, temperatures can also be too hot for some people. Yes, summer is great for the fantastic Croatian beaches , but you will still find amazing weather in September , a more tranquil time to discover and do some travel on the road.

Winter is perfect if you enjoy some snow and tranquil cities, with less traffic and fewer tourists around. As a plus, most attractions (including national parks, museums, and exhibitions) have reduced fees during winter, making the trip overall much more affordable.

But I can’t deny that Croatia is a summer destination. It’s best to visit in June , before European vacations begin, when the weather is nice, and prices are still on the cheaper side.

How Much Time You Should Spend in Croatia

Ten days may seem like a lot, but the country has a lot to see. With this ten-day plan, you will be able to check out the most remarkable places without leaving out important Croatian landmarks.

I’ve planned the route carefully including all those unmissable things you’re longing to discover, so you will have every opportunity to see the best of the country.

If it is too packed with activities for you, it will be easy to eliminate those attractions that interest you the least and spend more time doing activities or visiting places that mostly appeal to you.

As with any itinerary, it was created to inspire you and give you the basic input, it’s up to you to shape it according to your taste and style of travel.

LEARN MORE: 10+ Best Places to Visit in Croatia

Where to Stay in Croatia

Picking an important town as the place to stay during your trip is key to ensuring easy access to transportation.

You will probably arrive in the capital of the country, Zagreb , but other important cities like Dubrovnik , Zadar , and Split have airports too. The country also has a good long-distance bus system and a decent rail network to move around the country.

When touring a whole country for 10 days, which is a fairly long period, and to visit many different towns you want to do it without spending a fortune on gasoline or bus and train tickets.

Therefore, it’s a good idea to divide the country into two or three parts and stay for a couple of days in each of them to visit the neighboring areas with day trips.

For instance, you can spend one or two days in Zagreb to discover the capital and then continue to Zadar or Istria , to move around the most extensive area in the country, try the food, and visit some really interesting spots, such as the UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park.

After a few days, you can continue down along the coast to spend a few days in Split to spend time in town as well as to tour Hvar , and other famous Croatian islands.

Here you can find a place to stay on the mainland or go for some relaxing time off and splurge staying in Korcula .

Finally, you can end your vacation in Dubrovnik to visit the old town, the city, and the southern coast.

Affordable Accommodation Zagreb

B&B Cool Centre Zagreb is a great 4-star place to stay offering a convenient airport shuttle service.

The property is in a central position within a short walk from most landmarks in the city.

This B&B offers continental breakfast as well as a shared kitchen with a dining area and a laundry service.

Book your room at B&B Cool Centre  now!

Affordable Accommodation Zadar

Boutique Hostel Forum is a newly built, super value-for-money property right by the sea, close to local landmarks such as Saint Anastasia’s Cathedral and the Roman Forum.

It’s located near cafés, restaurants, and shops as well as a bus stop and the ferry port.

Book a room at Boutique Hostel Forum now!

Affordable Accommodation Split

Downtown Hostel is ideal if you’re looking for affordable yet comfortable accommodation in the old town. The property offers rooms with shared or private bathrooms and a bike rental service to explore the city.

There is a shared area with a kitchenette to save on meals, a terrace, and a common room to spend time meeting other travelers.

As a plus, this hotel is close to the ferry port, bus, and train stations, while the airport is about 20 minutes away.

Make a reservation at Downtown Hostel now!

Affordable Accommodation on Korcula

At Apartments Sunny Town you can have a whole place just for you right in the heart of Korcula’s picturesque old town to enjoy some peaceful, solo quality time.

The place is just 50 meters from the beach, with views over the historic district, close to restaurants, bakeries, and shops, as well as water sports facilities.

The property also offers bike, scooter, and car rentals while the bus stops just a few minutes from the apartment.

Check availability and book Apartments Sunny Town

Affordable Accommodation Dubrovnik

Guest House Blaise is a perfect place to meet new people in town and maybe enjoy a coffee with a new friend.

The place offers affordable but cozy accommodation overlooking the impressive red roofs of the old town and the sea, and it’s only 550 meters from Banje Beach and a stone’s throw from the old town.

Reserve your room at Guest House Blaise

Remember: When exploring the country over a longer time (from one to two weeks), arriving at one city and leaving from a different one is never a bad idea.

This way you will be able to make your way along the country without having to spend the last day traveling back to your starting point to catch a plane.

Practical Tips to Get Around in Croatia

Of course, bus and train travel is quite inexpensive, however, this is the most popular choice in summer so you’re bound to find crowds.

Driving a rental car lets you change routes, make frequent stops, and enjoy everything at your own pace.

Renting a car is not very convenient when you’re spending two or three days in Croatia, but for a 10-day trip, it’s a winning idea.

Car rental in Croatia is cheaper than in other European countries and you will only need an international driving license and a credit card.

10 Days in Croatia: First-Time Visitors’ Itinerary

There are a lot of things to see and do in Croatia even though the country is not as big as some other Balkan destinations.

And even when a 10-day vacation can seem to offer a lot of time to explore, the truth is that in such a rich and diverse country your time there will never seem enough.

Therefore, being organized and planning plenty of time ahead of the trip will be helpful when you have to decide what you want to see, and how much time you need to spend on the road to go from one point to another.

Note: You may be arriving in the capital of the country, especially if you’re flying from places outside Europe. However, if you land in Dubrovnik instead, you will only need to move around the days on this itinerary to fit your starting point in Croatia.

Zagreb Cathedral Croatia

Days 1: Zagreb, the Capital

If you manage to arrive in Zagreb early in the morning, this will let you spend the first day exploring at a relaxed pace until you recover from jet lag .

Otherwise, if you arrive late in the afternoon or the evening, go for a short stroll in the old town, have a snack or a light dinner, and get up early on the next day ready to discover the best of Zagreb.

The capital of Croatia houses a picturesque old town with dozens of cobblestoned alleys, perfect to spend time taking pleasant walks while sightseeing.

Take a funicular ride to the old town to explore landmarks including the Cathedral , St Mark’s Church , and Lotrscak Tower .

Another stop you cannot miss is the Museum of Broken Relationships , an original and unique art project which is more of a journey around the world through hundreds of break-ups exploring the heartache behind divisions due to class, wealth, and culture.

In the afternoon, spend some time taking a stroll along Strossmayer Promenade and then head to visit the WWII tunnels and learn about the former Yugoslavia under the communist rule of Tito.

If you want a first-class explanation of the place as well this Zagreb tour includes a visit to the tunnels and a multimedia exhibition about war.

Days 2: Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes

Early wake up on day two, it is time to visit one of the most amazing spots in Croatia, the Plitvice Lakes.

It is an easy and very rewarding day trip. To get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes the most convenient (and affordable) solution is to go by bus via Plitvička Jezera, the ride is about 2 hours and a half.

Trains are a bit more expensive, and the ride is about 3 hours.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO-listed site with dreamy landscapes made of hundreds of cascades, waterfalls, small lakes, and watermills which you can explore by boat or foot.

The area is huge and there is a lot to see all around.

Take a day to visit the gorgeous Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

As with most entrance fees in Croatia, the prices to enter the park go from around $30 in summer to $14 in winter when you might even see some frozen waterfalls!

In the nearby area, you can also check out the riverside village of Rastoke and have lunch before going back to town.

If you prefer to trust your experience with an organized tour and forget all about schedules, public transport, and entry fees, this Plitvice Lakes and Rastoke Day Tour from Zagreb is great value for money.

If your time in Zagreb is longer than what this itinerary suggests, you could easily squeeze in a short visit to nearby Slovenia and its picturesque capital, Ljubljana, and the beautiful Lake Bled.

Dozens of organized tours take you there for a day trip, and it is really a unique visit.

Days 3: Split

Although Split can be a good day trip from Zagreb, traveling down along the coast and staying in the area is a more practical way to enjoy this Croatia itinerary.

Located in the central portion of the Dalmatian Coast, it allows for magnificent day trips to several different areas.

Note: Due to its privileged position, if you’d rather stay in one place during your whole vacation, then check Split as your location in Croatia. Most of the country can be easily reached from Split by train or bus.

When reaching Split, the first thing you should do is to pay a visit to the old town and historic center.

The city’s most visited spot is the UNESCO-listed Diocletian Palace.

It’s a well-preserved complex that was built back in the fourth century that includes an impressive villa, incredible cellars, and a huge military camp on the premises that were used to film several Game of Thrones scenes.

You could even spend two morning hours touring the palace and the rest of the old town with a local expert for further insight into the history of the place.

The old town in Split is home to other magnificent gems.

And even when Split is most notable for its attractions that date back to Roman times, such as the Temple of Jupiter , in the city, you will also find Medieval and Renaissance buildings, such as Saint Domnius Cathedral , the city gates , and the Old Town Hall .

Beautiful Split Croatia

Day 4: Split

On day four in Croatia, get your daypack ready to discover the amazing Krka National Park and its waterfalls, enjoy a boat ride down the river canyon and enjoy the wonderful landscape around the Krka River.

Not far from the area, there are several charming riverside villages where swimming is possible too.

The area is populated with wonderful restaurants and there are also a few wineries worth a visit.

If you want a tour that shows you a bit of everything, also taking care of transport, wine, and food tasting, village hopping, boat rides, and swimming in the rivers, then check out this Krka National Park Tour with entrance ticket, local guide, food stops, and wine tasting.

Day 5: Split & Island Hopping

Devote your last day in the Split area taking another popular day trip to the nearby islands, a marvelous adventure highlighted by the amazing marine landscapes that you will encounter and the mesmerizing deep blue seas.

Since island-hopping is not something easy to plan because you must depend on timetables, boat schedules, tides, and weather conditions, a tour that takes care of all the practical detail leaves you enough time to focus on enjoying the landscape, taking awesome pictures, and indulging in amazing Croatian food .

There are two different tours that I suggest you compare, so you can choose exactly what you want to do.

The first of them takes you on a day trip to three different islands , including visit to the Blue Lagoon on Drvenik Veli Island.

The price of this tour is affordable if you consider all that it packs in just a day.

The other alternative is a five-island tour that also includes the gorgeous island of Hvar in the itinerary.

The day includes a stop at the Blue Grotto , a silvery-blue color tinted cave where light refraction of sunlight creates impressive visual effects.

You continue visiting Bisevo Island (Biševo), the village of Komiža on Vis Island , and the small Svetac .

Next up, the journey continues on Stiniva Cove and its pristine, rather unusual shores surrounded by high cliffs.

The trip also features a stop on Budikovac Island with its Blue Lagoon where you can go snorkeling (the equipment is included).

More stops on the visit feature Pakleni Islands and Hvar , known as the sunniest town in Croatia.

Visit sunny Hvar Island from Split Croatia

Day 6: Split and Mostar Slovenia

Since the Balkans are a compact group of countries, some of them within easy reach from each other, just as you could add a day visiting Slovenia’s capital right after Zagreb, why not devote a day of your 10-day trip to explore one of the most stunning destinations in the region, Mostar?

Located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it is quite easy to reach the country and cross the border when traveling from any point in Croatia, especially from Split.

You can easily get from Split to Mostar by bus, the ticket is about $23 one way and the ride lasts a bit more than 3 hours… but it’s well worth it!

Mostar is located about 110 kilometers from Split and it is one of the most enchanting cities in the whole Balkan Peninsula.

Once you’ve reached the city, head to the Neretva River to admire the impressive Stari Most a stone arch bridge with two medieval towers over the river which is the most important landmark in the town and the whole country.

After admiring the beautiful Old Bridge , spend some time in Mostar’s legendary Old Bazar with its oriental structured streets and buildings.

Here, soak in the laid-back atmosphere, hunt for some gorgeous souvenirs, and indulge in some delicious street food.

Not far from the bridge, you can visit Koski-Mehmed Pasha’s Mosque and the small medieval village of Pocitelj , built on a rocky cliff on the Neretva River.

If you still have some free time, take a local taxi for a short visit to the Koćuša Waterfall , another gorgeous landmark in town, right after, head back to the center of town to board your bus back to Split.

Of course, there are also affordable organized day trips to Mostar that cover all the mentioned stops and a few more surprises along the way.

And if your time is up in Split, it’s good to know that it’s also possible to take this day trip from Dubrovnik .

You can easily make a day trip to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina from Split or Dubrovnik

Days 7: Dubrovnik

The last leg of this ten-day Croatia itinerary arrives with your final stop, Dubrovnik , the most popular destination in Croatia and certainly the place with more things to visit, so get ready for four days full of activities and experiences.

The most popular thing to do upon arrival is to head directly to the old town, especially if you are a big Game of Thrones fan and want to experience the most famous locations where some iconic scenes were filmed.

There are some extremely popular Game of Thrones tours that for just a few dollars will show you secret locations and tell you every insight you want to know.

In the afternoon, rent a bike and explore the rest of Dubrovnik’s Old Town , check out the high protective walls and stone towers that surround the city, which account for one of the safest protective systems in Europe in the Middle Ages.

In the center of town, check out the Fountain of Onofrio , a complex engineering system channeling water from a close-by aqueduct.

Old Town Dubrovnik and the marina

Day 8: Dubrovnik & Island Hopping

Start your second day in Dubrovnik early and head to the port to board a boat.

Today you will be island-hopping around the gorgeous Ela phite Islands and spend a fantastic day swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

You can choose to visit just one of them or opt for an organized tour that takes care of your food as well, and that takes you on a trip to Lopud , Sipan , and Kolocep islands.

An island tour is a perfect way to spend a day outdoors

Day 9: Dubrovnik and Montenegro

Surely Dubrovnik has a lot to offer, and you can spend the last day of your trip, before heading back to Zagreb, visiting the endless cafeterias and restaurants in the old town, having a great time at the marina, or kayaking in the sea.

Or, if you want to squeeze in one more interesting destination, you could even take a day trip to neighbor Montenegro , one of the lesser-known countries in the Balkans, quite a stunning destination.

You can have the time of your life renting a car and driving along the southern Dalmatian Coast , along the way you can experience what life is like in some gorgeous, small Adriatic villages and towns making Kotor , your final destination.

The UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor is Europe’s southernmost fjord, opening to a spectacular bay offering a jaw-dropping landscape to admire.

During your trip to the area, you can visit the Church of Our Lady of the Rock situated on a small island on the bay that is accessible by a short boat ride.

You can also visit the Kotor Old Town on your own with its picturesque narrow streets and churches.

If you have the luxury of a little extra time on the road, check out Budva , a gorgeous Montenegrin town perfect for a trip to the beach before heading back to Dubrovnik.

If driving is not in your plans, you can get to Montenegro by bus or even join an organized trip to Montenegro like this one.

Day 10: Dubrovnik Food Tour & Travel to Zagreb

Devote your last day to last-minute shopping for souvenirs in Dubrovnik’s Old Town before starting your trip back to Zagreb if your plane back home departs from the capital.

Alternatively, enjoy your last hours in town by joining a Dubrovnik food tour or explore the Peljesac Peninsula, about an hour north of the city.

Here you will find interesting wineries producing some of the best wines in the country.

You can reach the peninsula by car or taxi since there is no public transportation. It’s a good idea to book a wine tasting tour to avoid drinking and driving.

Croatia is an amazing country, safe for solo travelers, where there is so much to do that your days will be full of amazing experiences and interesting visits.

The weather is stable and warm from spring to autumn, allowing you to make the most of your Balkan adventure!

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About the Author

Croatia Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 5, 2024

Croatia is one of the most popular destinations in Europe . It’s the go-to spot for stunning beaches, rugged islands, historic architecture, and all the sailing you could ask for.

I think the country is vastly underappreciated.

The tourism focus in the country is usually Hvar, Split, Dubrovnik, Istria, or the famed Plitvice Lakes. Too much of the rest of the country is largely ignored. I saw so few tourists in Karlovac, Rastoke, or Slunj. Zagreb didn’t have a lot either, despite it being the capital city. Slavonia? Barely a soul goes there.

Once you get off the main stretch of the coast, it feels like you have the country to yourself. Croatia is a country with over a thousand islands, a long coastline dotted with sun-bleached medieval towns, a cosmopolitan capital city, an underappreciated wine region, and an untrammeled inland landscape that sees a fraction of the tourists that the Dalmatian Coast brings in.

Spend longer than you plan and get off the beaten path to really see the magic of the country.

This travel guide to Croatia can give you the tips and tricks you need so you can plan the ultimate adventure there.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• How to Stay Safe
• Where to Stay
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• How to Get Around
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Croatia

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in croatia.

1. Visit Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a stunning city best known for its historic Old Town (which was a Game of Thrones filming location). Wander around its limestone streets, admire the baroque buildings, and take in the views of the Adriatic Sea. A walk along the medieval city walls is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon (bring sunscreen as there is very little shade). There are a lot of interesting museums worth visiting, like the Cultural History Museum, the Red History Museum, and the Maritime History Museum. Don’t miss St. Blaise Church and Sponza Palace either. The city also makes for an excellent base for day trips, including jaunts into nearby Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro . There are lots of wineries nearby too.

2. See Split

Split has some of the best beaches in the country, like Kašjuni Beach. It’s also home to Roman Emperor Diocletian’s 4th-century palace, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of museums to keep you entertained. I particularly enjoyed the Split City Museum, the Meštrovic Gallery, and Ethnographic Museum. Split also has a lively nightlife, several nearby hikes, historic ruins, cobblestone streets, and incredible seafood. It’s a more upscale (and party-focused) Dubrovnik. Be sure to spend a day in nearby Trogir, the most beautiful town you’ve probably never heard of.

3. Admire Plitvice Lakes National Park

Tucked between Zagreb and the Dalmatian Coast, Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s composed of 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls. There are opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and even winter activities. There are many miles worth of hiking trails, each offering a unique view of the waterfalls and surrounding forest. It’s beautiful but super popular so arrive early (it gets packed in the summer). Admission is 10-40 EUR depending on the month (prices rise in the summer) and time of day you visit.

4. Visit Rijeka

Rijeka is Croatia’s largest port and home to the medieval 13-century Trsat Castle as well as City Tower, a medieval defensive tower. The pedestrian street of Korzo is a wonderful place to enjoy the bustling city, both during the day and at night. The city has a lot of cool street art mixed in with cafes and even ancient ruins too. There’s also some amazing diving nearby with lots of underwater cliffs to explore. Don’t miss the nearby historic town of Kastav. It’s an Insta-worthy walled town surrounded by parks.

5. Explore Lokrum

The island of Lokrum is a nature reserve just off the coast of Dubrovnik. It makes a wonderful day trip (you’re not allowed to sleep here overnight) for swimming and sunbathing. There are also plenty of hiking trails, a botanical garden, and even a fortress built by soldiers during the Napoleonic era. For a unique experience, go floating in the salt water lake that’s often called a mini “Dead Sea” because of the high salt content. There are no cars here and, in addition to the beach, there is a former Benedictine monastery to explore. Ferry rides are only fifteen minutes and cost 14 EUR for a round trip and include admission to the island.

Other Things to See and Do in Croatia

1. visit pula.

Pula is a seaside city and home to an impressive 1st-century Roman amphitheater that overlooks the harbor that is used to hold concerts, film festivals, and even a summer festival dedicated to all things Roman. The festival, Spectacular Antiqva, is held at least once per week during the summer. Admission is 20 EUR. While you’re in Pula, be sure to visit the Archeology Museum and spend some time exploring Brijuni National Park (which is made up of a group of scenic islands). There’s also a 14th-century monastery here you can visit as well.

2. Go Island Hopping

With over 1,000 islands, it would be silly to travel to Croatia and not go island hopping. Plan to stay at least a couple of days on one of the islands to step back in time and get the full Croatian experience. The most popular islands to visit are Brac, Hvar, Krk, Cres, and Lošinj. However, don’t be afraid to get off the beaten path and explore some of the lesser-known islands such as Silba, Vis, and Lastovo. Some of the islands have ferries that start at 2.50 EUR each way. There are many ferry companies operating in Croatia leaving from the main ports of Pula, Porec, Rovinj, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar, Mali Losinj, Umag, and Novalja.

3. See St. James’ Cathedral

Located in Sibenik (which is on the coast between Zadar and Split), St. James is believed to be the world’s largest church built entirely of stone (there are no wooden or brick supports). It’s an architectural masterpiece that was started in 1431 and wasn’t completed until 1536. It’s massive and spacious with a rather dark and grim stone interior that feels very medieval. Some of the cathedral’s highlights are its frieze of 71 heads on the exterior walls, the tomb of Bishop Sizigori, and a 15th-century Gothic crucifix. Admission is 3 EUR.

4. Visit Krka Monastery

This Serbian Orthodox monastery is dedicated to the Archangel Michael and is one of the most important religious sites in Croatia. Founded in 1345, it’s located beside a small and peaceful lake forty-five minutes from Sibenik. Built in the Romanesque style, it boasts a unique mix of Byzantine and Mediterranean architecture. Underneath the building is a natural cave system (known locally as the ‘secret church’) where they have found Christian symbols dating back to the 1st century. The library also has books dating back to the 16th century. Admission is free.

5. Go diving

Thanks to Croatia’s seafaring history, the whole of the coastline is littered with shipwrecks. Two of the most popular are Baron Gautsch (off the coast of Rovinj), and Taranto (off the coast of Dubrovnik). Expect to pay 38 EUR for a single-tank dive in the area but the shipwrecks start at around 64 EUR. Open water certification costs around 315 EUR. The best diving conditions are between May and November (September and October will be warm and less busy).

6. Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships

Located in Zagreb, this museum is full of mementos from failed relationships between family members, friends, and lovers. Items on display include clothing, jewelry, handwritten letters, photos, and more quirky items like belly button lint and old chocolate bars. Each item has a story attached to it, some funny, some gut-wrenching. The museum offers an honest, unpretentious look at humanity through its failed relationships. Admission is 7 EUR.

7. Explore the Vucedol Culture Museum

This riverside location is home to an archeological dig site where remains from over 8,000 years ago were found. The museum, built on top of the site, is a state-of-the-art representation of the original settlement complete with replica houses. It showcases the culture that was here, which was one of the first in Europe to create calendars and brew beer. It’s super informative. Guided tours cost 150 HRK and are available in English. Admission is 6 EUR.

8. Go hiking

From coastal walks to mountain climbing to hiking the inland canyons, hills, and forests, Croatia has a lot to offer. The most popular coastal hiking spot is Mljet National Park, on the island of Mljet. Inland, the most popular hiking spot is Medvednica Mountain near Zagreb or in Risnjak National Park. Other spots worth visiting are Brijuni National Park (which is home to 14 different islands), Krka National Park (which has beautiful waterfalls), and Paklenica (which has some rugged canyon trails).

9. Visit the Blue Cave of Bisevo

The Blue Cave (or Blue Grotto) is a natural sea cave accessible only by boat via a narrow passageway. Inside, the water almost glows and has a bright otherworldly color to it. Access to the cave is restricted to one boat at a time. The cave itself is located at Balun Cove on the eastern side of Komiza. The best time to visit is between 11am-12pm as this is when the light is at its most beautiful. Prices in the off-season are 9.50 EUR and while it’s 13.50 EUR in the high season. Expect to pay around 75 EUR for a full-day tour (and expect crowds).

10. Listen to the Sea Organ

The Sea Organ is tucked away beneath a set of steps that lead down to the water in the seaside town of Zadar. The organ consists of 35 tubes that stretch along 70 meters (230 feet) and are played by the wind and the sea. Designed by architect Nikola Basic, the music sounds similar to whale calls. It opened in 2002 and is now one of the most popular attractions in Zadar. Because the sea is constantly changing, the music sounds different every day. Come here at sunset to soak in the picturesque views and listen to the captivating sounds of the sea.

11. Go sailing

Croatia is one of the world’s best sailing destinations. With calm winds, short distances, and a coastline dotted by islands and historical sites, it really does make for a inspiring place to explore by sea. During the high season, prices rise dramatically, but if you time your visit right and visit during the shoulder season you can find some good deals. If you don’t want to join a tour you can charter a boat. Charters can get pricey though, as a 7-day trip starts at 1,700-2,000 EUR. If you’re in the mood for partying, Busabout has hop-on-hop-off boat tours. I did one a few years ago ( you can read about it here ). For a 7- or 8-day trip, expect to pay around 1,000 EUR.

12. Tour Zagreb

Zagreb has a charming Old Town reminiscent of cities like Prague and Budapest. There is lots of green space, a couple of nearby lakes, and tons of historic architecture. Be sure to visit the massive Neo-Gothic cathedral and the medieval Old Town Gate where you can find an 18th-century painting of the Virgin Mary thought to be miraculous as it survived the city’s Great Fire of 1731. There are also tons of museums (don’t miss the Mimara Museum) as well as the Medvedgrad fortress that overlooks the city. To see the highlights on a budget, take a free walking tour with Free Tour Zagreb . Their tours last two hours and cover all the main sites so you can learn more about this underrated city.

13. Experience The Yacht Week

If you want to splash out and spend a week partying on a yacht, check out The Yacht Week . They host week-long parties and festivals with DJs and events throughout the summer. You can book a full boat to share with friends or just a cabin on one if you’re traveling solo. They have destinations all around the world, including routes in Croatia. “Yacht Weeks” occur from May-August. Prices start at 685 EUR per person. It’s one of the biggest things of the summer and it’s a wild, wild, WILD party.

14. Visit Hvar

Hvar is a picturesque island off the coast of Split that’s known for its lively nightlife. It’s popular with younger travelers looking to dance and drink the night away. However, there are also lots of scenic coves, lavender fields, vineyards, and secluded beaches you can enjoy if you visit during the day. While a lot of people come here as part of their sailing trips (or as a day trip from Split), I recommend spending a couple of nights here. It’s one of the best places in the country. It’s also the sunniest, with over 274 days of sunshine each year.

15. Explore Slavonia

Few tourists make it to Slavonia, a rural region in eastern Croatia famous for its wine production. Head to the wine-country town of Zmajevac (pronounced “zma-ye-vatz”), which is just a few miles from the border with Hungary and Serbia. Be sure to sample the local wines and try fish paprikash, a paprika-laden fish stew slow-cooked over an open flame for hours that’s a specialty of the region. Additionally, don’t miss Osijek, the main town of Slavonia. It has a large historic center filled with Gothic buildings and cobblestone streets.

16. Eat oysters in Mali Ston

If you love oysters like I do, head an hour’s drive up the coast from Dubrovnik to Mali Ston. Founded in the 14th century, the region was originally home to a defensive fortification. Today, it’s famous for the oysters that are farmed in Mali Ston Bay. These oysters are so unique that they’ve been given a Protected Designation of Origin status. They say it’s the unique mix of salt and fresh water in the bay that give these shellfish their quality flavor. Visit nearby farms to learn about the oyster industry and try some samples. Expect to pay at least 40 EUR per person for a guided oyster tour (with samples).

17. Relax in karlovac

Home to around 55,000 people, Karlovac is an off-the-radar city just one hour from Zagreb. It was originally built by the Austrians in the 16th century, though not much remains from that period. The city’s “castle” is really just a small fort that’s been rebuilt — but it’s worth a quick look as you meander around town. The main draw here is the brewery, Karlovacko. It makes one of the most popular beers in Croatia. Spend a night here and take in the local pace of life. There’s also some hiking and nearby waterfalls if you want to get out and stretch your legs.

18. Road trip around Istria

Istria is a peninsula home to delicious wines and sumptuous white truffles. It’s a foodie paradise that sees few tourists, perfect for road-tripping travelers. Rovinj is the best-preserved and most popular city on the peninsula. It has a stunning Old Town, plentiful beaches, and numerous ruins. Visit the Heritage Museum to learn about the region’s history and then enjoy the exquisite beaches (Monte, Lone Bay, and Amarin) that are perfect for swimming and lounging. Pula, mentioned above, can also be found here.

19. Go truffle hunting

Istria is a major truffle producer and you can go on a truffle tour while you’re here. The Motovun Forest is one of the most well-known areas for truffles in the world. Guides use expertly trained truffle-hunting dogs to find these rare fungi that grow underground. Prodan Tartufi, a family-run truffle-hunting business near the medieval hill town of Buzet, runs a popular (but pricey) excursion. Tarandek Truffle Hunting organizes more affordable, small-group truffle experiences for around 50 EUR per person (they get less expensive the more people are in the group).

For more information on specific cities in Croatia, check out these guides:

• Dubrovnik Travel Guide
• Split Travel Guide
• Zagreb Travel Guide

How to Stay Safe in Croatia

Croatia is a safe country to visit. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Pickpocketing and theft can occur in busy areas in Zagreb and Dubrovnik so be sure to keep an eye on your belongings (especially while on crowded public transportation or at a bus station).

Croatia’s bars and nightclubs are known for overcharging so be vigilant and check your bill before paying. It is also important to watch your drink and never leave it unattended. Drink spiking has been known to happen at nightclubs in Zagreb, Zadar, Split, and Dubrovnik. It’s rare, but it never hurts to be extra careful.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe in Croatia. However, the standard precautions apply (never walk home alone at night intoxicated, don’t accept drinks from strangers, etc.), especially in the party towns. For specific information about a place, read one of the many helpful solo female travel blogs on the web. They can give you tips and advice that I can’t.

While out hiking take care not to wander far off the beaten path as there are still some regions in Croatia with unexploded landmines. If in doubt, ask locals for advice or hire an experienced guide.

Scams here are rare butt you can read about common travel scams to avoid in this blog post.

If you experience an emergency and require assistance, dial 112.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase quality travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Where to Stay in Croatia

During the high season, hostels book up fast so be sure to book in advance, especially on the coast so be sure to book in advance if you’re coming during peak season. Here are some of my favorite places to stay in Croatia:

• Hostel Dubrovnik Marine (Dubrovnik)
• Falling Lakes Hostel (Plitvice Lakes)
• Crazy House Hostel Pula (Pula)
• Kamena Lodge (Split)
• Boutique Hostel Forum (Zadar)
• The Dot’s Hostel (Zagreb)

For more information on places to stay, these articles include my top recommendations for the best hostels in Split , the best hostels in Dubrovnik , and excellent hotels in Dubrovnik .

Croatia Travel Costs

Accommodation

• Hostel dorms – 20 EUR per night
• Hostel private rooms – 37-80 EUR per night
• Budget hotels – 45-75 EUR per night
• Airbnb private rooms – 40-50 EUR per night
• Airbnb apartments – 50-150 EUR per night
• Campsite – 15-35 EUR per night
• Pre-made sandwiches – 2-5 EUR
• Sit-down restaurants – 10-35 EUR
• Fine dining – 65-100 EUR
• Casual take-out places – 7-15 EUR
• Fast food (think McDonald’s) – 7-10 EUR
• Beer – 3-5 EUR
• Glass of wine – 3-6 EUR
• Cappuccino/latte – 2-4 EUR
• Bottled water – 2 EUR
• Groceries for a week – 30-45 EUR

Some of my favorite places to eat were Pupitres Wine & Coffe Bar, Heritage, Curry Bowl, and La Štruk in Zagreb; Cevabdžinica Behar in Karlovac; Tunaholic Fish Bar in Rovinj; and Oyster & Sushi Bar Bota in Dubrovnik.

Croatia Suggested Budgets

Backpacker – 50 eur per day.

If you are backpacking Croatia, this budget covers staying in a hostel dorm, cooking all of your meals, limiting your drinking, doing free activities like hiking and free walking tours, and using public transportation to get around. You’ll need to budget more if you’re visiting in the summer or if you plan on drinking.

Midrange – 120 EUR Per Day

On a mid-range budget, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room. You’ll also be able to eat out for all your meals, enjoy a few drinks, take some guided tours, take the occasional taxi to get around, and visit more museums and attractions.

Upscale – 220 EUR Per Day

On a “luxury” budget, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car to get around, do private guided tours, eat and drink as much as you’d like, and visit as many museums and attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury, though. The sky is the limit!

Croatia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Expenses in Croatia can add up quickly, especially if you take a lot of tours, boat trips, or just be on the Dalmatian coast where everything is about 30-50% more expensive than other parts of the country. Here are my tips on saving money when you visit Croatia:

Get a city tourism card – The Zagreb Card offers free public transportation as well as admission to four museums and the zoo (as well as discounts at restaurants). If you plan on museum hopping, this card can save you over 25 EUR (it costs 20 EUR). The Dubrovnik Card has similar discounts as well as free entry to 9 attractions and free public transportation. It’s 35 EUR for the 24-hour pass. (Split has a free tourism card that offers 10% off of several activities, restaurants, and attractions).

Visit during the shoulder season (or low season) – Prices in Croatia can double during July and August. If you want to make sure your money goes further here, visit during the low or shoulder seasons.

Take a free walking tour – Both Dubrovnik and Split have free walking tours. They’re the best way to get familiar with the cities and their culture. Just be sure to tip your guide! Check out Dubrovnik Secrets for more information.

Travel with Flixbus – Flixbus is a budget-friendly way to get around the country (and region). They have Wi-Fi, electrical outlets, and decent enough seats for long-haul journeys.

Cook your own meals – Many hostels here have kitchens. While buying your own groceries may not be as glamorous as going out to eat, it will definitely save you money!

Stay with a local – Staying with a local via Couchsurfing is a unique way to save money and meet a knowledgeable local who can help you better understand the country and its people.

Get the Croatia Pass – If you’re visiting between June-September and plan on seeing a lot of attractions, consider the CroatiaPass. It offers discounts on tons of attractions and will save you some money if you’re doing a lot of sightseeing. There are passes for several cities/regions including Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik (as well as passes that cover multiple regions). Prices vary per region (and for how many attractions you want to be included) but most will save you at least 30 EUR.

Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. LifeStraw makes a portable filter that will keep your water clean and safe.

Use points – Accommodation is expensive along the Dalmatian Coast, so use your points and miles on hotels to save money. It’s the best way to stay in nicer accommodation without breaking the bank.

Get sandwiches at Milnar – For cheap eats, pick up sandwiches from Milnar, a chain bakery with stores around the country. You can find sandwiches for just 2-4 EUR (double that price in Dubrovnik, however).

How to Get Around in Croatia

Public transportation – Public transportation is fairly inexpensive in Croatia, with most tickets costing between 0.53-2.50 EUR, depending on the distance you go. Both Dubrovnik and Split have day passes that cost around 4-5 EUR for a 24-hour pass and 10-12 EUR for a 72-hour pass. Buses and trams are the main ways to get around Croatia’s cities.

Bus – To get around the country, Flixbus or Arriva is the most budget-friendly option. Croatia has invested heavily in improving its roads in recent years and traveling by bus is fast, cheap, and comfortable. Most buses have free Wi-Fi, reclining seats, sockets, and AC. You can use Get By Bus for routes and pricing information.

The cross-country 4.5-hour trip from Dubrovnik to Split starts at 15 EUR on Flixbus in the low season and 20 EUR on Arriva. The 2.5-hour trip from Split to Zadar starts at 11 EUR in the low season. Split to Zagreb takes around 5 hours and costs 20-25 EUR. Rovinj to Pula takes just under an hour and costs 5 EUR, while Pula to Zagreb costs around 20 EUR and takes 4.5-5 hours.

Note that buses have a 1-2 EUR fee for checked bags.

To find bus routes and prices, use BusBud .

Train – The train lines in Croatia have been neglected in favor of improving the roads. Therefore, trains are slow and infrequent. They also don’t run along the Dalmatian coast, making them more or less useless for most travelers. I wouldn’t recommend the train here.

Ferry – Ferries in Croatia are efficient and affordable. Most ferries in Croatia are owned by the national carrier Jadrolinija and are large car ferries (so you can bring a vehicle). There is also a network of catamarans that link many of the smaller islands. Most smaller ferries start at 5 EUR during the low season and 10 EUR during the high season. Use Croatia Ferries for routes and prices.

For the 4.5-hour ferry between Dubrovnik and Split, expect to pay at least 38-50 EUR.

Flying – Croatia Airlines is the domestic carrier and offers flights between Zagreb and other airports within the country, including Dubrovnik, Split, Pula, and Zadar. Prices are relatively comparable between all the destinations, with one-way tickets starting at around 50 EUR.

Car rental – Car rentals start around 15 EUR per day. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is required before you can rent a car (it’s usually not enforced, but it’s better to be safe than sorry). For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Croatia is safe and you generally won’t have to wait long for a ride. Having a sign helps, and you’ll generally find more rides along the coast. Hitchwiki is the best website for more hitchhiking info.

When to Go to Croatia

The best time to visit Croatia is during the shoulder season between May-June or September-October. During these months, you can expect lovely weather and fewer crowds. This is also the perfect time for outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and kayaking. Expect temperatures around 22°C (71°F) on the coast. Further inland, temperatures are a little cooler during these times of year but still pleasant. You’re likely to encounter rain, so packing layers will keep you comfortable in the variable weather.

During the low season (November-April), the country is a lot cheaper, making it an affordable place to visit for anyone on a tight budget. However, many places (including hotels and restaurants) close for the winter due to the lack of tourists so your options are much more limited during this time. The Dalmatian Coast is rainy and inland cities, like Zagreb, even get some snow. Average high temperatures across the country are below 9°C (49°F) so you’ll definitely want to bring lots of warm layers. Daylight hours are short as well, so this isn’t the ideal time for outdoor activities.

During the peak season (July and August), expect to pay double what you would in the low season. Dubrovnik is especially busy (and expensive) during this time. The coastal resorts are packed with families and cruisers. Temperatures hover around 30°C (86°F) though so the weather is at its best. If you choose to visit during the busy summer months, you’ll still want to bring rain gear, especially if you’re visiting inland destinations.

Croatia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

GO DEEPER: Nomadic Matt’s In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!

There’s a lot of free information online but do you want to spend days searching for information? Prob not! That’s why guidebooks exist.

While I have a lot of free tips on Europe, I also wrote an entire book that goes into great detail on everything you need to plan a trip here on a budget! You’ll get suggested itineraries, budgets, even more ways to save money, my favorite restaurants, prices, practical information (i.e. phone numbers, websites, prices, safety advice, etc etc), and cultural tips.

I’ll give the insider view of Europe that I got from years of traveling and living here! The downloadable guide can be used on your Kindle, iPad, phone, or computer so you can have it with you when you go. Click here to learn more about my book on Europe!

Croatia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more tips for your trip? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Croatia travel and continue planning your trip:

The Perfect 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

Croatia Itineraries: From One Week to a Month!

The 17 Best Things To Do in Croatia

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

The 4 Best Hostels in Split, Croatia

The 6 Best Hotels in Dubrovnik

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

10 Days In Croatia: The Best 10-Day Croatia Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2023

Croatia is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination, and it’s easy to see why.

On a trip to Croatia you can relax on beautiful white beaches with sapphire waters, walk around ancient walled towns or explore lush green valleys dotted around with waterfalls.

But how long do you need to see it all you may ask? I spent 10 days in Croatia in September and while no trip ever seems long enough, we found it was a good amount of time to see Croatia and enjoy it.

This detailed Croatia 10-day itinerary will give you an idea of what you can do on each day of your trip, to maximise your time and see as much of this beautiful country as possible. 

This complete travel guide covers everything you need to know; from the average prices of food, accommodation, transport and activities to travel times between locations; highlighting all the best places to visit during ten days in Croatia.

So what are you waiting for? Find out how to spend 10 days in Croatia!

• 1.1 Currency
• 1.2 Estimated cost for 10 days in Croatia
• 1.3 Do you need travel insurance for 10 days in Croatia?
• 1.4 How to get around Croatia in 10 days
• 1.5 Some Croatia packing essentials
• 2.1.1 Where to stay in Dubrovnik
• 2.2.1 Walk on the Old Town Walls
• 2.2.2 Do a Game of Thrones walking tour
• 2.2.3 Or discover the Old Town
• 2.2.4 Take the cable car at sunset
• 2.3 Day 3: Go island hopping
• 2.4.1 Where to stay in Split
• 2.5.1 Diocletian’s Palace & the Old Town
• 2.5.2 Enjoy the view from Park Marjan
• 2.5.3 Relax at Kasuni Beach
• 2.6 Day 6: Go on a day trip to Krka National Park
• 2.7.1 Discover Omis
• 2.7.2 Go zip-lining in the Cetina Canyon
• 2.8.1 Where to stay in Hvar
• 2.8.2 Some popular Hvar tours
• 2.9 Day 9: Explore the island of Hvar
• 2.10 Day 10: Travel from Hvar to Split & Trogir

Exploring the side streets of Split in the early morning

Useful information about visiting Croatia

Before we jump straight into the detailed Croatia 10-day itinerary and must-see highlights of Croatia, here are some useful things you should before travelling to Croatia .

The currency in Croatia is the Croatian kuna (HRK). At the time of writing 1 EUR was approximately 7.5 HRK.

Estimated cost for 10 days in Croatia

On a trip to Croatia you can expect to spend anywhere between 30 to 150 EUR a day, depending on your travel style and interests.

Last time I was there (September 2017) we spent on average anywhere between 100 to 250 HRK for a nice sit down meal of at least two courses with alcohol, depending on the restaurant location and menu.

If you want to save money on food there are lots of bakeries in Croatia, where you can grab local sandwiches, wraps, pizza and more for 20 – 50 HRK.

Accommodation ranges from 20 – 30 EUR per night for a bed in a hostel dorm, or between 50 and 100 EUR for an apartment, and can go over 100 EUR for a nice hotel.

When it comes to activities it will vary massively depending on what you choose to do. Some activities (eg. a city walking tour) you can do alone for free, whilst others (eg. zipline or island hopping) are worth paying for to ensure you have a relaxing time.

View over the harbour and rooftops of Hvar from the top of the fort

Do you need travel insurance for 10 days in Croatia?

After my personal experience spending two nights in a private hospital in Tenerife, and having to pay for it out of pocket (it wasn’t cheap), I always recommend getting travel insurance .

You might not end up needing it, but for a small fee you can travel without worries. Personally, I suggest getting your travel insurance with  Heymondo .

Heymondo offers tailor made travel insurance, providing the best value for money for your specific trip. You can also buy it once you’re already abroad and have forgotten about it before flying (which, if you’re anything like me, is quite likely).

Besides the usual cancellation, medical expenses, luggage coverage and general travel insurance services, Heymondo also has a 24/7 doctor chat and instant assistance through their app.

Plus, as a Greta’s Travels reader, you get 5% off your Heymondo travel insurance !

Click here to get your 5% off Heymondo travel insurance!

Wandering the streets of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia

How to get around Croatia in 10 days

For this Croatia 10-day itinerary, you won’t need a car. You will be based mostly in Split and Dubrovnik, going on day tours from these two iconic cities, so a car won’t be necessary.

To travel from Dubrovnik to Split we took a FlixBus , which is a very cheap and fairly efficient bus service. The bus journey took around 3.5 hours, not much longer than a car journey.

However if you don’t want to join tours and want to have more independence, then  renting a car  will give you the most flexibility, both over your itinerary and timings.

There isn’t one single best way to travel around Croatia. It ultimately depends on your travel preference and itinerary. If you want to go beyond the cities listed in this itinerary, a car might be handy.

Personally we only rented a car once we reached Hvar, so that we could freely drive around the island and explore all the hidden beaches. 

Click here to rent a car for your Croatia trip!

Sunset over the sea in Hvar, Croatia

Some Croatia packing essentials

While you won’t need much beyond your usual travel essentials and normal outfits, I wanted to list below some items I believe you absolutely can’t forget on a trip to Croatia.

Power bank   – you don’t want your phone to run out of battery while you’re busy capturing the beauty of Croatia!

Stainless steel water bottle   – Save money and reduce plastic consumption by bringing your own water bottle and refilling it.

Sunscreen   – I was there in September, and the sun was still really hot! Don’t ruin your trip by getting sunburnt.

International adapter  – Depending on where you’re travelling from you might need an adapter to charge your electronics.

Fast drying towel  – Whether it’s for the shower of your hostel dorm, after a a kayak tour or to lie on the beach, you’ll need one of these. I love them because they dry quickly and don’t take up much space.

Sunset stand up paddling tour in Split

How to spend 10 days in Croatia

This 10-day itinerary is the one I have followed myself on my recent trip to Croatia. It is meant to be used as an indication of a route that will allow you to maximise your days and see all of the main highlights in one trip.

I have also included travel times and costs of each transport mode and activity, to give you an idea of how much time and money the trip would take.

You can obviously change it up to fit your personal travel interests and times, it’s just intended as guidance.

The view over Dubrovnik from Lady Pipi

Day 1: Arrive in Dubrovnik & kayak at sunset!

This itinerary starts from Dubrovnik , a beautiful city in the Southern most point of Croatia. There are lots of things that you can do in Dubrovnik, which will suit the interests and preferences of most travellers.

It’s a city with a rich history for those that love visiting museums when travelling, it has beautiful beaches for the beach lovers, and lots of active opportunities for outdoors lovers like kayaking tours.

The next two days will be packed of activities in this city, but depending on the time of arrival, day 1 is a good time to just relax from the flight and enjoy some down time exploring the town centre.

READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS IN DUBROVNIK!

Exploring the side streets of the medieval Old Town of Dubrovnik

If you have time and are feeling adventurous, you could also join a kayak sunset tour ! The tour we joined lasted about 3 hours, setting off at 4pm and returning after 7pm.

During the tour they take you kayaking around the island of Lokrum, just in front of the Dubrovnik harbour, and then cliff diving in a beach in a secret cave.

They usually also provide a sandwich and drinks. On the way back you can admire the sunset over Dubrovnik from the sea.

Seeing the old town walls from this perspective is an amazing experience, especially with the golden light.

Check out prices & availability for your kayak sunset tour in Dubrovnik below!

Kayak sunset tour in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Prices for a kayak tour in Dubrovnik are around 200 – 250 HRK, depending on whether you want a day tour or a sunset tour with wine.

If you prefer to relax on your first day in Dubrovnik, just wander around the town, and maybe head to Lady Pipi for an amazing barbecue dinner.

T his restaurant was recommended to us by both our AirBnb host our tour guide as a place where “the locals go”. They do fantastic fish and meat grills, and have a rooftop dining area with views over the red roofs of Dubrovnik.

Click here to book your kayak sunset tour in Dubrovnik on GetYourGuide or Viator !

Kayaking at sunset by the harbour of Dubrovnik

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

The  best places to stay in Dubrovnik  are those within the walls of the Old Town, or just outside.

These will obviously be a little more expensive than accommodation further out, but you will be so close to all the main attractions that it will be worth it. I’ve listed below some options for every budget.

Budget:  Hostel Angelina  – This lovely hostel is right in the Old Town. It has spacious dorms and a fun sociable atmosphere.

Click here to book your stay at Hostel Angelina!

Mid-range:  Buza Apartment   – This hotel has awesome views over the Dubrovnik Old Town, as well as being just 30m from the nearest beach, while still offering an affordable price.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Buza Apartment!

Luxury:  The Pucic Palace  – If you’re looking to treat yourself, this is the perfect place to do so. Located right in the heart of the Old Town, this beautiful hotel has great views over the rooftops of Dubrovnik.

Click here to book your stay at The Pucic Palace!

View over the rooftops of Dubrovnik from the Old Town walls

Day 2: Explore the Old Town of Dubrovnik

Walk on the old town walls.

The one thing that is a must see for everyone, regardless of your travelling preferences, are the walls of the Old Town.

The Old Town of Dubrovnik is surrounded by tall walls , which are open to the public for walking all around and admiring the views over the red roofs of Dubrovnik.

The walk can take up to two hours and it’s a great way to spend the morning of your first full day in Dubrovnik. Access to the walls costs 100 HRK.

Make sure to go very early in the morning, as the walls can get very busy. Some parts are also quite narrow, so if you visit when they’re busy you’ll have to wait behind people or squeeze past them.

| READ MORE: BEST OF DUBROVNIK |

Exploring the Old Town walls in Dubrovnik, Croatia.

Do a Game of Thrones walking tour

As passionate Game of Thrones fans, we couldn’t help but spend an afternoon doing a Game of Thrones walking tour . Besides showing you the filming spots, they also share lots of fun facts about the filming of the show.

This lasts around 2 hours and they take you all over the Old Town to see the locations of Dubrovnik that have been used in the filming of the TV show.

These tours usually cost around 150 HRK, plus 50 HRK to get access to Fort Lovrijenac, where most of the Red Keep scenes have been filmed.

If you don’t want to spend the money for the tour, you can follow this Game of Thrones filming locations guide I put together and do your own walking tour of the filming locations.

Click here to book your Game of Thrones walking tour on GetYourGuide or Viator , or check out prices & availability below!

Narrow street in Dubrovnik where part of the riot scene from season 2 of Game of Thrones was filmed

Or discover the Old Town

If Game of Thrones isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry! You can also spend the afternoon simply discovering more of the Old Town.

Walking down the streets of Dubrovnik Old Town will feel like stepping back in time. The Old Town of Dubrovnik is incredibly well preserved, and discovering the cobbled side streets is magical.

There are also many popular Dubrovnik tours that you can join, so that you will have a local guide showing you around and teaching you the history of this beautiful city. I have listed below some of the most popular.

Dubrovnik Old Town Walking Tour  – This is one of the most popular Dubrovnik tours around. You’ll be able to see all of the best Old Town highlights, including the Franciscan Monastery, D’Onofrio’s Fountain, and Orlando’s Column.

Click here to book your walking tour of Dubrovnik Old Town on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator !

Dubrovnik Old Town Private Walking Tour  – If you’re the kind of traveller that likes to have a tour guide specifically for your group, you can consider booking this private walking tour of Old Town instead.

Check out prices and availability for a private tour of Dubrovnik Old Town here!

The Old Town in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Take the cable car at sunset

Once you have finished discovering the Old Town, another must do activity for anyone visiting Dubrovnik is taking the cable car to the top of the hill that overlooks Dubrovnik.

You can also walk up if you’re feeling very sporty and have the time for it, otherwise you can do a round trip with the cable car for 140 HRK.

I recommend going just before sunset, since the light will really bring out the beauty of the red roofs and the Old Town.

There is also a restaurant at the top of the hill. While the views are incredbily, as you can imagine it is very overpriced compared to the restaurants in town.

View over Dubrovnik from the cable car

Day 3: Go island hopping

Having seen the main attractions and points of interest within Dubrovnik, it’s time to venture to some of the beautiful islands close to Dubrovnik.

With picture-perfect beaches, adorable fishing villages, and historic churches, a trip to the Elafiti Islands is a must on any Croatia bucket list .

You can snorkel at Sipan Island, dine on fresh seafood, pop into the Franciscan Monastery, and tan on the sandy shores of Sunj Beach.

And while the islands are absolutely beautiful, the boat ride there is also incredibly scenic. Not only will you get to enjoy views of the Adriatic Sea, you’ll also get to admire the storybook-worthy town of Dubrovnik from afar.

You can book an island hopping tour from the stalls in the harbour of the Old Town, with prices varying from 250 – 500 HRK, depending on how many stops the boat trip does and if food and drink are included.

Island views in Kolocep, one of the islands you can do a boat day trip to from Dubrovnik

However if you’re visiting during busy season, it’s better to book your island hopping tour beforehand, to ensure you have a spot confirmed. I listed below some of the most popular Dubrovnik boat trips.

Full-Day Elafiti Islands Tour from Dubrovnik  – This is undoubtedly one of the best Dubrovnik island tours. You’ll get to visit three of the 13 Elafiti Islands! Along the way, you can suntan on sandy beaches, visit old fortresses, and pop by fantastic local vineyards.

Click here to book your full day tour to the Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator !

From Dubrovnik: 4-Hour Elafiti Islands Private Boat Tour  –  Discover the beautiful Elafiti Islands on board your very own private boat! Whether you’re a couple, family or group of friends, touring by private boat will make your Dubrovnik excursion special!

Check out prices and availability for a private Dubrovnik to Elafiti Islands boat tour!

A “hidden” beach cave that you can visit near Dubrovnik

Day 4: Travel from Dubrovnik to Split

The journey from Dubrovnik to Split takes around 4 hours, depending on traffic and costs around 125 HRK.

You can buy tickets at the bus station, but if you’re visiting in high season I recommend buying them online beforehand to make sure it’s not sold out.

Coaches run throughout the whole day so you can take it at whatever time suits you best, depending on whether you want to spend more time in Dubrovnik or Split.

You could spend the morning in Dubrovnik exploring the Rector’s Palace , then get a bus and arrive in Split by late afternoon, in time to enjoy the awesome restaurants and bustling nightlife of Split.

We had an amazing dinner at Bokeria in Split. They served one of the best burger I have had in a long time. While it may not be typically Croatian, they also had more local dishes.

Click here to purchase your Flixbus from Dubrovnik to Split!

The Rector’s Palace in Dubrovnik

Where to stay in Split

The  best places to stay in Split  are around Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town centre. Being so central will allow you to easily walk to all the main attractions. I’ve listed below some options for every budget.

Budget:  Old Town Hostel  – this hostel is right in the centre of Split. Here you can find an affordable stay and friendly sociable environment.

Click here to book your stay at Old Town Hostel!

Mid-range:  Hotel Bellevue   – located in the heart of Split, this cosy hotel offers everything you need for a relaxing stay.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Bellevue!

Luxury:  Villa Split Heritage Hotel  – if you want to treat yourself, this is the place to do so. In the heart of the Old Town this hotel has a very traditional feel, with its exposed brick walls and an outdoors courtyard.

Click here to book your stay at Villa Split Heritage Hotel!

Diocletan’s Palace in Split, Croatia

Day 5: Discover Split

Diocletian’s palace & the old town.

Many travellers only use Split as a base for day trips and tours. While it’s true that the surroundings of Split are stunning, there are lots of amazing please to see also in Split.

Your first stop of the day should be Diocletian’s Palace . This is actually more of a fortress, composed by lots of different buildings, which form about half of the old town of Split.

The most iconic spot is the peristyle, the central square towards the entrance of Diocletian’s quarters.

READ MORE: THE ULTIMATE SPLIT ITINERARY!

Enjoying Diocletian’s Palace at 6am without the crowds

From there you can also access the bell tower of the cathedral. Despite the very narrow staircase, up the views over the rooftops of the city are well worth it.

Access to the bell tower is around 20 HRK, as is access to the cathedral (two separate tickets). We personally only visited the bell tower as we wanted to see the view, but weren’t fussed about the cathedral.

The peristyle is also a fun area to visit in the evening, as the bar opposite the cathedral sets out pillows along the steps and usually has live musicians.

Exploring Diocletian’s Palace in Split, Croatia

Enjoy the view from Park Marjan

Another must see spot in Split is Park Marjan and its viewpoint. The viewpoint is a short 15-minute walk from the harbour of Split.

The walk to the viewpoint is very scenic in itself, going all along the harbour and through the quaint cobbled streets of Split. If you’re into hiking and being outdoors, you will enjoy walking around Park Marjan.

Relax at Kasuni Beach

From Park Marjan you can also reach Kasuni beach .

There are two main beaches within walking distance of the Split centre. Kasuni is further away but it has been recommended to us by our AirBnb host as the best one since it’s less busy and touristy.

The other beach is called Bacvice and is the only sandy beach close to Split, which is why it’s more popular.

| READ MORE: BEST THINGS TO DO IN SPLIT |

The view of Split from Park Marjan

Day 6: Go on a day trip to Krka National Park

Krka National Park is one of the main attractions in this part of Croatia. You can get there either by renting a car and driving yourself or with an organised tour.

We went on an organised tour for approximately 200 HRK per person. The tour sets off early in the morning around 9am, so that you can arrive at Skradin where you then get the ferry to the waterfalls.

This is a scenic and peaceful boat trip, which when compared to the busy waterfalls was even better than the rest of the park.

I personally liked doing an organised tour since you get 5 hours of free time at the park, where you can either swim by the waterfalls or explore the nature.

Krka Waterfalls at Krka National Park in Croatia

It’s a very independent tour, which only really includes the transport. If, like me, you hate driving it’s perfect.

The tour doesn’t include food but there are cafes in the national park where you can eat. As you can imagine these are a bit overpriced, so we got sandwiches from a bakery in Split and brought them with us.

Access to the national park isn’t included in the tour price and costs an extra 150 HRK. The journey is about an hour coach drive depending on traffic, then a 20-minute ferry.

The tours usually return to Split around 5pm, leaving you with a free evening to enjoy dinner and the Split nightlife.

Click here to book your Krka National Park day trip on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator , or check out prices & availability below!

Looking for a corner away from the crowds by Krka waterfalls

Day 7: Do a day trip to Omis & the Cetina Canyon

Discover omis.

Omis is a small town just 30 minutes away from Split. You can get there with the public buses that run from the harbour, for about 25 HRK. The town is very picturesque, with its medieval old centre to walk around.

Just a short walk from the centre there is the Starigrad Fortress, a fort that you can climb up and enjoy the view over the town and sea.

In Omis there is also a lovely beach where you can sit, relax and soak in the sun. It has a very well preserved Old Town, but different from Dubrovnik and Split, it’s not yet overrun by tourists.

Walking through the streets of Omis feels like stepping back in time, and the views over the neighbouring canyon are simply stunning.

The town itself is very small, you can easily see the whole town in a few hours, then sit down for a nice lunch in the sun.

Wandering around the Old Town of Omis, Croatia

View over Omis and the Cetina Canyon from the top of the fort

Go zip-lining in the Cetina Canyon

Omis is better known as a departure point to explore the beautiful Cetina Canyon, where you can do outdoors activities like zip lining and rafting. We went zip lining in the Cetina Canyon , and I can highly recommend it.

I had never zip lined before, but felt perfectly safe with the team and guides, plus the incredible views more than made up for it! Zip Lining cost around 400 HRK.

The zipline experience is composed of eight lines, for a total of 2,100 metres. The longest wire is 700 metres, it sits at 150 metres in height and is the most scenic.

It’s a great activity if you want to do a thrilling experience, while also enjoying the beautiful views of the Croatian countryside.

Click here to book your Cetina Canyon zip-line experience!

Or check out prices & availability for your chosen date below!

Zip-lining over the Cetina Canyon

Day 8: Take the ferry from Split to Hvar

Croatia is well known for its coastline, islands and beaches. Amongst these, Hvar is one of the most well known for having the clearest waters and lively nightlife.

You can visit Hvar as a day trip from Split , however to really get the opportunity to explore the island, I recommend staying in Hvar for a couple nights.

There are ferries all throughout the day, which take about 1 hour to get to Hvar and cost around 80 HRK.

We bought the tickets at the harbour at least a day in advance, to make sure we got a spot on the ferry at the time we wanted.

This isn’t a must, but if you have issues with seasickness you might want to get a ferry earlier in the morning, as the waves are smaller.

Depending on your arrival time in Hvar a great way to spend your first day is exploring the old town centre, and walking up to the fort to enjoy the view over the harbour.

The view from the top of the fort in Hvar

View over Hear from the top of the fort

Where to stay in Hvar

IHere are some great accommodation options in Hvar  for every budget.

Budget:  Youth Hostel Marija  – Hvar is known for being a bit of a party island. If you’re going for the nightlife, you will have an awesome time in a hostel! This one has a fun reputation, great location, spacious dorms and even a pool.

Click here to book your stay at Youth Hostel Marija!

Mid-range:  Apartments Bocin Rosso  – This lovely apartment has an incredible view over the rooftops and harbour of Hvar. It’s also in a great location.

Click here to book your stay at Apartments Bocin Rosso!

Luxury:  Apartments Frane  –  If you’re looking for something a bit fancy, this apartment has a big outdoor space where you can relax and enjoy the view over Hvar.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability at Apartments Frane!

St Stephen’s Square in Hvar, Croatia

Some popular Hvar tours

There’s been a lot of moving around on this itinerary, so if you don’t feel like changing hotels for just one night, I get it. In that case, you can join a Hvar day trip from Split instead.

That way, instead of the ferry, you will cruise in a comfortable catamaran or speed boat, and have a local guide take you to all the highlights of this beautiful island. Here are some of the most popular tours you can join.

Hvar 5 Islands & Blue Cave Tour  – If you want to go beyond just Hvar Island, then this tour is a great choice. You will see part of Hvar, but they’ll also take you to see the famous Blue Cave as well as beautiful coves in the islands of Vis, Ravnik, Budikovac and Bisevo.

Click here to book your Hvar 5 Islands & Blue Cave tour on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator !

Hvar Nightlife Tour For Party Lovers  – A bit of an unconventional tour but it can be a fun choice for a group of friends!

Click here to book your Hvar Nightlife Tour For Party Lovers!

Full-Day Catamaran Cruise to Hvar & Pakleni  – This tour also goes beyond just Hvar Island, taking you also to Solta and Pakleni islands. It gives you the opportunity to sail in a comfortable catamaran, see Hvar town, swim in crystal clear bays and enjoy a beautiful sunset cruise back to Split.

Click here to book your Hvar & Pakleni tour on  GetYourGuide  or  Viator !

Malo Zarace Beach in Hvar Island

Day 9: Explore the island of Hvar

So Hvar is actually both the name of the main town where the ferries dock, but also of the island. Confusing, I know. The island itself is quite big, with other smaller towns dotted along its coast.

The easiest way to explore it and see as much as possible of the island is to rent a car for the day, and drive along the coast.

However beware of car rental scams that go on in Hvar. We were scammed by the company we rented the car with, you can read about my experience here .

Once you have a car (hopefully scam free!) you can drive around the whole island in 3 hours.

| READ MORE: TOP 10 BEACHES IN THE WORLD |

Enjoying the sunset from the Hula Hula Beach Bar

After driving around aimlessly for a bit, we stopped at a restaurant right on the beach for lunch, where we had some of the freshest fish of our entire trip.

There were few other people there at that time, and we were the only tourists eating there. That’s when you know a place is good!

The owner was then kind enough to recommend us a lovely beach close by that would be more sheltered from the wind.

After a long day of driving and exploring Hvar island I recommend going to Hula Hula Beach Bar for the last night of your trip.

The food isn’t as amazing as some of the other places in town, but you get to eat at a relatively cheap price sat on sunbathing decks with an amazing sunset view.

Day 10: Travel from Hvar to Split & Trogir

The last day of the trip is sadly here! You will want to get a ferry depending on what time your flight is. If you get the opportunity, try to fly late in the evening to make the most of your day.

I recommend getting an early morning ferry, so that you can spend some time exploring Trogir before flying. Trogir is another small medieval town close to Split airport.

It’s considered one of the best hidden gems in Europe , and it’s easy to see why!

It’s about a half hour journey, and you can get there by public bus from the Split harbour, just outside from where you will get off the ferry for about 20 HRK.

It’s a small and quaint little town, which you will be able to see in just a few hours. Similarly to Split, there is a cathedral and bell tower that you can visit and walk to the top of for 25 HRK.

The view is well worth it, and will be something to remember as you then head to the airport and back home.

View over the rooftops of Trogir from the bell tower of the cathedral

Final thoughts on how to spend 10 days in Croatia

There you have it, the ultimate Croatia 10-day itinerary! Have you been to Croatia before? How did you find it? Did your Croatia itinerary look something like this? Let me know in the comments below!

Personally, I love Croatia, it’s a country I always find myself returning to. With its huge variety of natural landscapes, stunning beaches and unique history, there’s something for everyone.

This is obviously just a sample itinerary of how to spend 10 days in Croatia, but I hope you will find it useful when you plan your own trip to this beautiful country.

Enjoyed reading my Croatia 10-day itinerary? Pin it!

Planning The Perfect Trip To Croatia | The Outernationalist

Thursday 21st of March 2019

[…] From: RoadAffairs From: GlobeGuide From: FourSquare From: MyLifesAMovie From: AdarasBlogazine From: GretasTravels From: MindfulMermaid From: […]

A Tour Guide's Guide to Dubrovnik Travel: Old Town, Tours, Restaurants

Tuesday 31st of July 2018

[…] 2-3 days though, and seeing other places in Croatia as well! Dubrovnik could also be the start of a ten day Croatia itinerary if you are looking for […]

Saturday 14th of October 2017

What an amazing itinerary. Really want to get to Croatia.

This seems like the ultimate trip! Now I'm wishing I was in Croatia looking over that view! Great post!

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it! :)

Your photos make want to go back so badly! Hvar is such an incredible island and if you have more time (and a car) there are loads of little seaside towns and lonely beaches to explore! Great itinerary!

Thank you, glad you like my photos! Agreed, if we hadn't had to give back our car after we got scammed we would've loved to see more of the little beaches and towns of Hvar! Glad you enjoyed the itinerary :)

Croatia Itinerary: See the Best Places in 2 Weeks (+ Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 29, 2024

Are you planning a trip to Croatia, but are not sure where to start and how much time you need? Or maybe you are looking for the best Croatia itinerary that covers all the highlights and must-see landmarks, but also includes some extra experiences that make the trip truly memorable? Then read on!

In this article, we share our self-drive Croatia itinerary for 14 days. It covers some of the most popular tourist places in Croatia like Dubrovnik , Split , and Plitvice Lakes. It also includes a visit to Kotor Bay in Montenegro and also to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina . In addition, we also visited some of the most beautiful islands and National Parks that are often more special than the most popular tourist destinations…

I spent many hours and days planning this Croatia itinerary, because when we visit any country for the first time, we want to make sure that we see the absolute-best places that are worth the trip the most .

As I’m writing this on the plane on our way back home from Croatia, I have a feeling that it’s an itinerary worth sharing. We saw many amazing towns, stunning islands, and some truly beautiful nature destinations. We drove scenic roads and also visited some lesser known gems that you won’t find in most other Croatia travel itineraries…

Our Croatia itinerary will not bring you to all the best places in Croatia – 2 weeks aren’t enough for that. However, if you want to make the most of your first trip to Croatia and travel just a little bit deeper, then this itinerary will show you how to see most of the very best places in Croatia in 2 weeks. Find out!

Good to know: On most days of this Croatia itinerary, driving distances aren’t big. So you can easily adjust it depending on your flight times and also make a shorter trip by skipping some places that interest you less.

To make it easier to plan your own perfect Croatia itinerary, I also included some experience-based tips and practical information . You can find them at the bottom of this article, together with a map indicating every place mentioned in our Croatia itinerary .

We also share some tips for the best Croatia itinerary that you can do without a car .

But first – our detailed day to day itinerary for up to 2 weeks in Croatia . Read on!

Croatia itinerary – OVERVIEW:

Day 1 – arrival and dubrovnik, day 2 – dubrovnik.

• Day 3 – Kotor day trip
• Day 4 – Dubrovnik area or Ston & Korčula Island

Day 5 – Mljet Island

• Day 6 – Mostar day trip

Day 7 – Brač Island

Day 8 – split.

• Day 9 – 5 Islands, Hvar and the Blue Cave day trip

Day 10 – Krka National Park

Day 11 – plitvice lakes national park, day 12 – zadar and šibenik.

• Day 13 – Trogir and Klis Fortress

Day 14 – Split area and departure

• Practical tips

Croatia itinerary on the map

Croatia itinerary without a car.

Here’s a suggested 2-weeks Croatia itinerary:

If you start your Croatia itinerary in Dubrovnik, you’ll need to pick up your rental car immediately after landing in Dubrovnik airport. It’s located half an hour drive from the city, so unless you are planning to take organized day trips from Dubrovnik, you’ll need a car from the first day.

TIP: For the best price, rent a car well in advance . Prices vary a lot depending on when you travel and how long in advance you book. We use and recommend this search engine for the best car rental deals .

Depending on what time your flight lands and how much time you have in Dubrovnik, you can already do some sightseeing on the first day. Here are some suggestions on things you could do in Dubrovnik in half a day, based on what we did upon arrival in Dubrovnik.

View from Fort Imperial

Fort Imperial is located high on the mountain above Dubrovnik and offers the best view over the city and the surrounding coast. It can be reached by the Dubrovnik cable car.

Alternatively, you can also drive up the mountain by car, but the road is extremely narrow. We did this and even in April it was very busy, so I really don’t know if it’s advisable in high season. The view from the top is simply incredible!

Dubrovnik City Walls

If there is one thing you absolutely have to do in Dubrovnik, it’s walking the City Walls . The whole walk will take at least 1-1,5hrs, but you can also just do part of it. There are several entrances where you can enter or exit the walls, but your ticket only gives one access and I really recommend doing the entire tour.

We were there just before the closing time and were lucky to have the City Walls all to ourselves, but it can get really crowded in summer. For fewer crowds and cooler temperatures, you may want to do this early in the morning instead. TIP: Don’t throw away your ticket – it includes the entrance to Fort Lovrijenac.

Accommodation. We stayed in Dubrovnik for 3 nights. For sightseeing, I recommend that you stay within walking distance of the Old Town. Look for a place that has car parking, as parking is really expensive in Dubrovnik. We stayed at Apartments Villa Falkoni and would do it again – the location is great and the apartment – spacious and extremely well equipped. With 3 kids, we opted for self-catering apartments for this entire Croatia trip. If you rather stay in a hotel, Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is by far the best-located hotel in Dubrovnik, but it comes with a serious price tag.

No matter how long your Croatia trip is, I recommend spending at least one full day in Dubrovnik. As already mentioned, the City Walls are a must and the view from Dubrovnik Cable Car is amazing (see day 1 of this itinerary).

Below are some other things I recommend to do in Dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik Old Town

Take at least half a day to explore the Old Town of Dubrovnik. Don’t miss the beautiful Pile Gate , Jewish fountain , Sponza Palace , Dominican and Franciscan monasteries , and the main old city square Luza .

Dubrovnik old town is a labyrinth of narrow picturesque streets . To us, strolling these narrow steep streets was one of the best things to do in Dubrovnik.

TIP: At the tourist office, you can get a free map that has some suggested walking itineraries.

Old Port of Dubrovnik is also a nice area and many boat excursions and day trips to the nearby islands depart from here. If you are visiting Dubrovnik with kids, Dubrovnik Aquarium might be worth a short visit.

Fort Lovrijenac

Fort Lovrijenac has become famous as one of the Game of Thrones filming locations . The fort itself isn’t that impressive, but the views over the Old Town of Dubrovnik and the coastline are well worth the climb. Note that Dubrovnik City Walls ticket also includes entrance to Fort Lovrijenac, so hold on to those tickets.

TIP: To many, Dubrovnik is an ultimate Game of Thrones destination. If you are a fan, consider joining this 2-hr Game of Thrones walking tour .

Dubrovnik West Harbor and Kayaking

Dubrovnik West Harbor , between the Old Town and Fort Lovrijenac, is extremely picturesque. In summer, you can rent kayaks here. If the weather is good and you have some time to spare, I think that kayaking is one of the nicest ways to explore Dubrovnik’s stunning coastline.

Short boat trip from Dubrovnik

If you feel like escaping the hustle of the city, consider taking a boat to the nearby Lokrum island. Cavtat town is also a nice half-day excursion from Dubrovnik.

Boats depart from the Old Port of Dubrovnik, where there are many companies selling tickets for all kinds of short excursions by boat.

Restaurant recommendation. If you can secure a table, I can highly recommend a Bosnian restaurant called Taj Mahal. We had lunch there based on the fantastic reviews on the internet and it was absolutely amazing. For the best views in town, try Above 5 Rooftop Restaurant.

Day 3 – Day trip to Kotor, Montenegro

There are countless day trips that you can take from Dubrovnik, but probably one of the best ones is that to Kotor Bay in Montenegro . Below is a short summary of places to visit.

Perast is a small picturesque village along the Bay of Kotor. The main thing to do in Perast is to take a boat to the nearby island Our Lady on The Rocks . Little taxi boats charge around 5 EUR per person and the whole trip takes less than half an hour.

Kotor is a well-preserved medieval town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a much smaller town than Dubrovnik, so you don’t need more than half a day here.

The Old Town is absolutely lovely and not to be missed. However, the best thing to do in Kotor is to climb the city walls . The steep path leads you to the Castle of San Giovanni (Fort of St Ivan) and the incredible views from the top are well worth the climb.

Depending on how much time and energy you have, you can opt to visit Budva , one of the oldest cities on the Adriatic Coast. The days were still quite short in April and so we didn’t go that far.

Most organized Kotor day tours from Dubrovnik include Budva in their day itinerary and they all mention a ferry that they take back, but I wasn’t able to find any information about the direct car ferry from Budva to Dubrovnik. Maybe they mean the car ferry that we took (see below).

Southern part of Kotor Bay

After visiting Kotor, we drove along the Southern coast of Kotor Bay, passing the little town Prčanj .

Afterwards, we took Lepetane car ferry that saved us quite some driving on the way back to Dubrovnik.

Good to know. Montenegro isn’t part of the EU, so check if you need any special travel documents or a visa for this day trip. Strangely enough, they do use Euro as their local currency and most places will only accept cash.

Day 4 – Dubrovnik area, Ston, or Korčula Island

There are many ways to spend this fourth day of your Croatia itinerary. If you rather stay in Dubrovnik a bit longer, you can hit the beach, or visit one of the islands from there.

Below are several suggestions of places that you could consider visiting today. For example, Trsteno Arboretum and Ston or Ston and Korčula island. If you want to do all three, it might be possible, depending on how early you start your day and on where you stay the night.

TIP: If you rather just take an organized day trip from Dubrovnik, I recommend this Korčula & Peljesac Day Tour .

Trsteno Arboretum

Trsteno Arboretum is a popular half-day excursion from Dubrovnik. It’s located about a 30-minutes drive from Dubrovnik, about halfway on the way to Ston.

Korčula island

Korčula is one of the nicest island destinations that you can easily visit from Dubrovnik. If you come by car, you’ll need to take a car ferry 634 from Orebić to Dominče (Korčula island) – check the ferry schedule here .

By far the best place to visit on Korčula island is Korčula town itself, the jewel of the Adriatic coast and the place where (supposedly) Marco Polo was born.

Half a day is enough to see the main highlights in town. Because ferries are frequent and only take 15-20 minutes, Korčula is an island that you can easily include in your Croatia itinerary.

Ston & Mali Ston

Ston is a small medieval town dating from the 14th century. It’s popular with tourists for – you’d never guess – city walls. You can also visit Fort Kaštio – it’s included in the same ticket price as the city walls

The walls in Ston are nowhere as impressive as the walls of Dubrovnik or Kotor, but the area and the views are really nice. The walls follow the mountain and lead you to another village nearby – Mali Ston . You can hike there on the walls and come back via the main road.

Mali Ston is a nice little town by the inlet of the sea. You could easily make a half-day trip if you decide to visit both these towns and walks the City Walls between them.

Accommodation. If you follow this itinerary by car, I recommend staying in the Ston area for 2 nights. It’s a good location for both – Korčula and Mljet islands, and also to continue your trip to Mostar afterwards. We stayed at Apartment Ston . Alternatively, Hotel Ostrea in Mali Ston is the only hotel in the area and it has very good reviews.

Mljet island was described in our guidebook as one of the undiscovered gems of Croatia. An island you must visit before the rest of the world finds out – just the right place for us!

In summer, you could spend a few days on Mljet and the island is becoming more and more popular with locals and foreigners alike. But in low season, Mljet is deserted. We were visiting in April on a cold rainy day and we hardly saw any people at all.

Mljet National Park

If you come to Mljet island just for a day, as we did, the main thing to do here is to visit Mljet National Park . There are lots of hiking and bicycle trails, and two lakes where you can swim in. A popular thing to do is visit the church and Benedictine monastery on St Mary’s island on one of the lakes. There is a boat that brings you there in just a few minutes and it’s included in your National Park entrance ticket price. 

If you have some time to spare, you can also hike to the top of Montokuc mountain . It’s the highest point of Mljet island offering great views over the azure-blue lakes below.

In the evening take the ferry back to the mainland, to your accommodation in Ston.

Practical information: If visiting Mljet island by car, you’ll need to take car ferry 832 from Prapratno to Sobra. It takes about 45 minutes one way, but only runs a few times a day, so make sure to check the schedule in advance. TIP: In high season you can also visit Mljet island as a day trip from Dubrovnik .

Day 6 – Day trip to Mostar

One of the most popular day trips in this part of Croatia is a visit to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina . From Dubrovnik, you could take an organized day trip to Mostar and Kravica waterfalls (a private day trip is also possible).

If you are driving, as we did, below you can read more details about visiting Mostar and other landmarks of this part of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

It takes about 2 hours to drive from Ston to Mostar, but do yourself a favor and don’t follow Google Maps as we did (unless you’re feeling very adventurous and want to try some narrow gravel mountain roads through a very barren landscape). Instead, follow the signs to Mostar and drive via Neum and Komarna and via E73 and then the same way back in the evening again.

The main reason to visit Mostar is to see the famous Old Bridge . The 15-16th-century bridge was completely destroyed in the recent Balkans war in 1993. Ten years later, it has been restored to its former glory and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Mostar Old Town is quite small and there isn’t all that much to do there. Walk around, admire the bridge from various vantage points, and make sure to also check the historic Kujundziluk street with its colorful Bazar.

I highly recommend visiting Koski Mehmed Pasha Mosque . The view from the minaret of this mosque is without any doubt the best view over the Old Bridge in Mostar!

Blagaj Tekija & Vrelo Bune

Since you don’t need more than a few hours in Mostar, you can easily visit a few other places in Bosnia & Herzegovina on this day trip from Croatia. I recommend Blagaj Tekke, just a few kilometers outside of Mostar.

Blagaj Tekke, Blagaj Tekija, or simply Tekija is a historic Sufi monastery perched in between the high mountain cliff and Buna River . The tiny monastery has a mausoleum and an old Turkish bath and only requires a short visit – a perfect addition to Mostar.

Vrelo Bune – the spring of the Buna River is the strongest karst spring in Europe. It looks as if the river comes out of nowhere, but if you look well, you see an opening in the mountain from where water runs with huge power. It’s an impressive and a bit scary sight, especially if you happen to visit in spring when the water is at its highest. Part of the area was submerged under water when we visited.

In April, the season was just starting, so it was still very quiet in Tekija. However, judging by the number of restaurants and souvenir shops, it’s an extremely popular place where many tourist groups visit as well.

Počitelj

Located along the main road to Mostar, Počitelj is another popular stop that most organized Mostar day trips include in their itinerary. You can stop here either on your way to Mostar or when driving back in the afternoon.

Počitelj is a historic medieval village that suffered a lot in the Balkan war at the end of the 20th century. It’s considered one of the most endangered monuments in the country and efforts are being done to restore and preserve it for future generations.

You can hike up to the citadel for nice views of the area and the whole visit will probably not take longer than 30-45 minutes.

Kravica waterfall

Kravica waterfalls might not be as well-known as those of Plitvice or Krka NP in Croatia, but they are absolutely stunning and definitely worth a short detour on this Bosnia and Herzegovina day trip from Croatia.

We left this waterfall for the end of the day and had it practically to ourselves. In summer, bring your swimwear and towels – it’s a great place to relax and cool off after a long day of driving and sightseeing.

Good to know: Bosnia and Herzegovina isn’t part of the EU, so check if you need any special travel documents or a visa for this day trip. They have their own currency, but all the places I mentioned here accept cash payments in Euro.

To Makarska

After visiting Mostar and the other landmarks of Bosnia and Herzegovina, we drove back to Croatia. We chose to stay in Makarska , because that’s the place with a direct ferry connection to Brač island – next stop on our Croatian itinerary.

Makarska is a very cozy seaside town with a very picturesque harbor area. There are several roads leading to Makarska and the fastest way to get there is probably by taking the main road E65, followed by a local road #76. We – once again – followed Google Maps and, since some local roads were closed for construction, ended up with yet another very adventurous drive (it was just one of those days…).

Luckily, the last part of the road that we took (#512) was absolutely spectacular and well worth the crazy drive we had to endure due to road works.

Accommodation: Spend 1 night in Makarska . We stayed at Apartments Elda , but there are also a lot of really nice hotels in town as well. In fact, Makarska is a popular vacation destination, so if you are looking for a more relaxing trip, you could add a day extra to your itinerary here. Valamar Meteor Hotel or Hotel Park Makarska both have great reviews and a good price-quality ratio.

The most popular way to get to Brač island is by taking a ferry from Split, but – as already mentioned – there is also a ferry from Makarska and it fits this itinerary better. Car ferry 638 from Makarska to Sumartin takes 1 hour and there are usually three ferries a day. We took the one at 9 am, which gave us plenty of time to explore Brač island.

Brač island is probably one of our favorites of all the islands that we visited on this Croatia road/island-hopping trip. It just felt so local, so authentic, so untouristy… To be completely honest, I think that it mostly has to do with the choices that we made and the places that we visited. It helped that it was low season as well.

I have a very detailed article about visiting Brač Island (check it out!).

So here is just a short summary of the places that are worth your time the most: Zlatni Rat beach , view from Vidova Gora , Blaca monastery (absolutely must-do), Škrip , Milna , and Supetar (very touristy, but the cemetery is absolutely worth a visit).

Accommodation: We stayed in Milna for 1 night and couldn’t have been happier with the choice. It’s the nicest, coziest of all the towns we visited on Brač island. Alternatively, if you prefer busier places, there are many more hotels in Supetar .

After a short visit to the earlier mentioned cemetery in Supetar, we took a 10.30 am ferry to Split. Ferry 631 from Supetar to Split takes 50 minutes and runs multiple times a day.

It’s a very popular route and when we saw the number of cars, buses, and trucks waiting for it, we thought we’d have to wait for the next one. Luckily, it’s a very big boat and it’s incredible to see how many vehicles can fit inside.

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and it just looks too big to be enjoyable, but luckily the looks are deceiving. The waterfront area and the Old Town are absolutely lovely. It’s such a good mix of historic architecture and modern city life. Countless cafes and restaurants are just as popular with the locals as with tourists, which is always a good sign.

Split Old Town

Count at least 2-3 hours to visit the Old Town of Split, with Diocletian’s Palace as the main highlight. The palace takes up the biggest part of the Old Town itself – there is not one entrance or building – the whole area is the palace.

Don’t miss the Cellars of Diocletian’s Palace and the Cathedral (you’ll need a ticket for both), but also Peristilium , Vestibule , and just walk around and explore this incredible place.

If there is one place that I really would have wanted to have a guide , it’s in Split. There is so much history and so much to see that it feels like you are missing a great deal by not knowing what you see (and yes, we had a good guidebook, but in Split, it just wasn’t enough).

TIP: I highly recommend that you book a city walking tour or a guided Diocletian’s Palace walking tour . GOT fans might want to consider this highly-rated Split: Games of Thrones Locations Tour instead. Just make sure to book upfront, especially if you only have half a day in Split town, as we did.

Republic Square – a beautiful example of Venetian architecture – is also not to be missed in Split. If you like local markets, I also recommend you visit a market just outside the Eastern walls of Diocletian’s Palace. The market is called Zelena tržnica, the Green Market .

Marjan Hill

Marjan Hill or Marjan Park is not to be missed when visiting Split. You’ll have to climb quite some stairs, but the panoramic views over the city and the Adriatic sea are well worth it. On top, there is a café where you can have a drink and enjoy the views.

While most people just visit the viewpoint, there is actually much more that you can see here. Marjan Park is a popular place with locals, but we met just a few tourists. Yet, it’s such a beautiful area to explore – don’t miss it when in Split!

The walking path to the West from the viewpoint (the road called Marangunićevo šetalište – see map ) was mentioned as the Chapel Walk in our guidebook. It became our favorite place in Split. If you follow it all the way to the end, it will lead you to the end of the peninsula, but the entire walk will probably take at least 3 hours.

We walked past St. Nicholas chapel , then on to Bethlehem Chapel , and finally to the last and the most impressive of them all – St. Jere Chapel . It took us a bit less than 2 hours in total (there and back, including all the photo stops) and if it wasn’t for the fact that the sun was starting to set, we would have stayed much longer…

Accommodation: Stay in Split for 2 nights. I recommend a hotel within a walking distance to the city center. We stayed at Apartments Vinko and the location couldn’t have been better (e.g. Heritage Hotel 19 and Hotel Agava Split are in the same area). Here you can find a selection of other well-located hotels in Split .

Day 9 – Split day trip to Hvar and the Blue Cave

We really wanted to include Hvar in our Croatian itinerary. After all, it’s the most famous, most popular, and most sought-after island destination in Croatia…

After some research, we found that the easiest way to visit Hvar in just a day was by taking an organized day trip from Split. It came with a bonus – the Blue Cave , Vis island , and also many other amazing stops nearby . At the end of the day, we even saw dolphins…

We booked this highly-rated Blue Cave, Hvar, and 5 islands day trip from Split and it was a wonderful day. We saw so much and there’s no way we could have done it better ourselves.

Since it was one of our favorite days in Croatia, I have written a much more detailed post about it. Here you can read all about our Blue Cave tour from Split . If you have a day to spare in Split, I highly recommend this day trip.

Just an hour drive from Split, you can find one of Croatia’s most beautiful National Parks – Krka NP . We loved it here, much more than Plitvice (but more about that later).

Due to its proximity to Split, Krka NP is a very popular day trip and can get really crowded especially on the days when there are cruise ships in Split. I, therefore, recommend arriving here as early as possible. That way you can visit the most popular place of the park – Skradinski Buk – first, before the crowds arrive, and then explore further later in the day.

There are two main entrances from where you can reach Skradinski Buk – by boat, bike, or on foot from Skradin town or by shuttle bus or on foot from the car parking in Lozovac. Once there, follow the boardwalks to explore this beautiful area.

We took a boat from Skradin (and wasted lots of time waiting for it), had lunch, and spent about 1,5 hrs walking around the area. We then walked back to Skradin (which took about 50 minutes – faster than waiting for another boat). In total, we spent about 4 hours in this part of Krka NP.

Other nice places to visit in the National Park include Roški Slap and also Visovac Monastery . You’ll need to either take a boat or drive and then take a shorter boat in order to get to Visovac island.

Roški Slap is also quite far and will take at least half an hour to drive there from Skradin (plus the time there and the time to get back).

You can ask for more information and a map at the NP ticket office, but if you want to visit all these places, you’ll have to start early and count an entire day for Krka National Park.

If you follow the same itinerary for your Croatia road trip as we did, you will have a long drive ahead. It takes at least 2 hours to get from Krka NP to Plitvice Lakes. So keep this in mind when deciding which parts of Krka NP you want to see, so that you are not too tired to drive.

Accommodation: Stay in Plitvice Lakes for 2 nights. Hotels here are scarce and get fully booked months in advance. There are some really nice apartments, B&B’s, and villas as well, but they also sell out very quickly, so book your accommodation in Plitvice as soon as you have your trip itinerary planned. We stayed at Sweet home apartments , within an easy walking distance from Entrance 2 of the Plitvice Lakes NP. Hotel Plitvice and Hotel Bellevue are the best-located hotels in the same area.

To us, this was a no-brainer – any Croatia trip itinerary should include Plitvice Lakes National Park . Despite the long drive to get here from Split area and back, we thought it would be worth it. And I’m absolutely sure it will be for you, because most people say that Plitvice Lakes NP was an absolute highlight of their Croatia trip…

Unfortunately, it wasn’t for us…

We had such high expectations of Plitvice Lakes National Park, but we were just really unlucky to be there on the day when the nicest part of the park was closed for maintenance.

Furthermore, nature in this (higher) part of Croatia was just starting to wake up after the winter… Everything was so grey and it looked nothing like the pictures we had seen… I mean, it was nice, some parts quite nice, but nothing that we would say wow to.

I can only conclude that April is too early and not the best time to visit Plitvice. I think that May to September are by far the best months to visit Plitvice Lakes NP. Yes, it will be busy (it was unbelievably busy even in April – I can’t even imagine how busy it gets in the summer), but at least you’ll get to experience the amazing beauty of this place.

Don’t let our experience discourage you, but I wanted to share this, so that you know that the reality of travel is not always picture-perfect.

Staying near the entrance of the park gives you the advantage that you can start the day before day tourists arrive (and stay later in the evening). The nicest areas that you shouldn’t miss in Plitvice Lakes NP are: the Lower Canyon with the Big Waterfall – Veliki Slap . Also the Upper Canyon is really nice – there I suggest that you take a shuttle bus to ST3 stop and walk back following the signs to ST2 – you’ll pass all the nicest places along the way.

Good to know: Since we were flying out from the Split airport, we drove back South after visiting Plitvice Lakes. If, however, you are flying out of Zagreb, you can go there from Plitvice – it’s just a 2-hour drive.

In that case, you may want to visit Zadar, Šibenik, or Trogir before heading to Plitvice and not at the end of the trip, as we did… You can easily do that – just stay in Šibenik/Krka NP area a bit longer…

Before the trip, I wasn’t sure how much time we would have on this day and was trying to figure out which town is better to visit – Zadar or Šibenik. In the end, we settled on Zadar as our first choice. It turns out, you can easily visit both towns in one day and that’s what we ended up doing.

I can’t really describe what it is exactly about Zadar , but we really loved this town. It was less touristy, I suppose, with many locals in the streets and at the restaurants, and the atmosphere was great.

Start your visit at Land Gate (Kopnena vrata) – the main entrance to the Old Town. Don’t miss the 5 Wells Square , the market , the People’s Square, St. Chrysogonus Church , Church of St. Donatus , Saint Anastasia Church , and climb the Bell Tower for amazing views. There are also several interesting museums if you have more time.

One of the must-see (actually, must-hear) attractions in Zadar is the Sea Organ along the seaside promenade, Riva . It’s a sort of alternative music instrument that makes sounds that vary depending on the wind and the waves. Take the time to just sit here and listen to the sea – magical.

Restaurant recommendation: We had lunch at Restaurant Bruschetta and it was the best meal we had in Croatia. In general, the food was very good everywhere, so it really says a lot about this place.

Šibenik

About 1-1,5hrs drive from Zadar you’ll find another beautiful Croatian town, Šibenik . It’s couldn’t be more different than Zdar, but it’s also very cozy and picturesque and is definitely worth a visit.

The biggest part of town is built against the hill and it’s a real labyrinth of narrow and steep, but very picturesque streets . Some of the highlights not to be missed is the Saint James Cathedral and the beautiful town square around it, and also the St. Michael’s Fortress . If you have more time, you can also visit the nearby Barone Fortress – there is a ticket that combines these two forts and it costs just a tiny bit more than a single entrance.

On the way to St. Michael’s Fortress, we also passed the Medieval Mediterranean Garden of St.Lawrence Monastery . It’s just a very small garden with a nice cozy café. Take a break here and ask them for lavender lemonade. It’s just lavender syrup mixed with water, but it was so good…

We wanted to buy some of that lavender syrup to take home, but didn’t find it anywhere. Once back home, we found it on Amazon… So now we have a taste of Croatia at home. Every time I drink it, it feels like we’re back on vacation again…

We spent about 3 hours in Šibenik and then drove on to Trogir – the last stop on our Croatia two week itinerary. It’s a nice little town and is very well located for exploring more of the Split area. It’s also just 5-10 minutes drive from Split airport.

Accommodation: Stay in Trogir for the last 2 nights. We stayed at Apartments Svjetlana – a big apartment with private parking, just outside the traffic-free town center. There are just very few hotels inside the Old Town; if you want to stay there, XII Century Heritage Hotel or Heritage Hotel Pasike are the nicest options. In my opinion, it’s better to stay just outside the center (especially if you have a car). In that case, I recommend these hotels: Hotel Brown Beach House & Spa or Hotel Trogir Palace.

Day 13 – Trogir, Klis Fortress, and more

There are quite some nice towns and landmarks that you can visit in the Split area or you can just opt to relax and spend a few days by the pool or on the beach. We had a few places on our radar and ended up visiting Trogir and Klis Fortress , but I also included a few suggestions for if you have more time or if you really want to get the maximum out of your time.

Trogir is a very nice historic town and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its main attraction is the beautiful traffic-free Old Town area. It sure attracts big crowds, so if you are staying in Trogir anyway, try to either visit it first thing in the morning or leave it for the late afternoon – evening.

Don’t miss the Trogir Cathedral of St. Lawrence  with its impressive and very decorative entrance door. Also the  Ivana Pavla II square around the Cathedral has some other impressive buildings. Don’t miss Cippiko Palace and the City Hall . You can visit Tower Kamerlengo for nice views over the town and surroundings. There are also several other churches, a monastery, and several museums.

Trogir is one of those typical European tourist towns with historic architecture and a web of narrow streets lined with all kinds of souvenir shops, cafes, and restaurants. You can see the highlights of Trogir in just 2-3 hours, or you can keep on coming back for the atmosphere and the lively cafés and restaurants… For us, half a day was more than enough here.

Klis Fortress

When you spend two weeks in Croatia and climb so many city walls and visit so many medieval forts, it’s difficult to still get excited about them. So we didn’t really have high expectations of Klis Fortress . However, since it was the peak of Game of Thrones last season madness when we visited Croatia, we decided to check it out. After all, Klis Fortress is one of the GOT filming locations in Croatia…

To tell you the truth, we haven’t seen a single episode of Game of Thrones, but we are always in search for the nicest places where we travel. I’m so glad we decided to include Klis Fortress into our itinerary! It was the nicest, most special, and probably the most authentic of all of the forts that we visited in Croatia. It’s definitely worth a visit!

Practical information: Klis Fortress is open daily, from 9 to 7 PM (might vary depending on the season). It’s just a short drive from Split, from Trogir, or you can also just stop here for a quick visit on your way to Krka NP on day 10 of this itinerary. Count at least 30-45 minutes for a visit; we spent more than an hour.

Vranjaca Cave, Solin & Kaštela

As mentioned before, there are many more nice places to visit around Split. We had shortlisted the following places, but didn’t visit them. I think that they are each worth a short visit if you are looking for somewhat less touristy experiences near Split.

Vranjaca Cave is a family-owned colorful stalactite and stalagmite cave, some 40 minutes drive from Split (see location on the map below). Many people call it a hidden gem of Croatia.

Solin (or Salona in English) is a town that dates back to Roman times and was one of the biggest towns in the area in the 1st – 2nd centuries. Don’t miss the city walls and the amphitheater.

Kaštela is located between Split and Trogir and consists of 7 smaller villages. They were built in 15-16th century as summer palaces by the rich families from Split. The nicest villages are Kaštel Gomilica , Kaštel Lukšić , and Kaštel Štafilić – well worth a short visit in this area.

Depending on what time your flight leaves, you can visit some of the places mentioned in day 13 of this itinerary that you haven’t seen yet.

To us, this was the last day of our two weeks in Croatia. We spent the morning in Trogir, where – luckily – we had some pancakes for brunch.

Split airport doesn’t have any restaurants after you pass security, so it’s best that you eat something in town. Apparently, there is a small restaurant at the airport, but you have to go there before you pass the security check. Lesson learned. For us, our last lunch in Croatia was a dry ham&cheese sandwich – the only food available in the departure hall…

Practical tips for planning Croatia itinerary

Best time to visit croatia.

We visited Croatia in April and it was perfect for sightseeing, but too cold for the beach. Nature was also just waking up too. The biggest advantage of traveling in April was that we had so many amazing places to ourselves.

While this Croatia itinerary will fit any time of the year, I recommend visiting in May – June or in September – October . 

July and August are the busiest and the hottest months. The rest of the year is perfect for towns, but too cold and sometimes too wet and too grey for nature destinations.

Which airports are best for this Croatia itinerary

Our 2-week Croatia itinerary starts in Dubrovnik and ends in Split , as that’s where we found the best flight deals for. However, it’s very easy to adapt this itinerary so that you start in Dubrovnik and end in Zagreb , or vice versa. Alternatively, you could also start and end in Split.

How much time do you need in Croatia

There are many ways to visit Croatia and there is not one best Croatia itinerary that fits everyone. Your trip will depend on your interests, the season, and of course on how much vacation time you have.

I’d say 5 days is about the minimum time you need in order to see just the main highlights of Croatia – Dubrovnik, Split, and Plitvice Lakes or some islands like Hvar.

7 days in Croatia will allow you to add several other places, like Kotor and Mostar. However, if you want to travel deeper and visit the country beyond the main tourist stops, I suggest 10-14 days for Croatia .

Getting around in Croatia

You can easily visit Croatia individually – driving in Croatia is quite easy. Some roads are narrow and the ever-changing speed limits can be a challenge to keep an eye on, but in general, nothing to worry about.

Parking can be a challenge in some towns; make sure you have some small change for the parking meters.

The easiest way to see all the places in this Croatia itinerary is to rent a car . You can find the best deals for car rental here . Don’t forget to ask for a green card for your car if you’ll be visiting Kotar or Mostar (it comes with an extra fee).

If you want to visit any of the islands, you’ll need to take a car ferry or book organized day tours . The Jadrolinija website is the best place to check ferry routes and timetables and GetYourGuide website is the best place to find and book organized day tours. I really suggest booking tours upfront.

We didn’t book any of the car ferries in advance. You can book them upfront, but the Jadrolinija website says that your place on the specific boat isn’t guaranteed anyway. So it’s best to just arrive at the ferry port well in advance and get your tickets there. I’m not sure if this applies for all the ferries and in all seasons though, so please check it yourself.

To make your Croatia trip planning easier, I created this Croatia travel map indicating all the main places mentioned in our 2-week Croatia itinerary. I gave each day a different color, so you have a better idea of what belongs together.

Please keep in mind that this is our itinerary that is based on our interests and the time that we had. Since we always try to make the most of every single trip, this Croatia itinerary reflects exactly that – it covers all the must-see places in this part of Croatia and also includes the best day trips to Kotor and Mostar . We also visited some really amazing lesser known places and I think they just made this trip even more memorable and special.

TIP: If you have less time in Croatia, just concentrate on the ‘musts’. In my opinion, any Croatia trip itinerary should as a minimum include the following places: Dubrovnik, Kotor, Mostar, Split, Hvar & the Blue Cave, Krka NP, and Plitvice Lakes NP.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Pretty much all the places mentioned in this Croatia itinerary can be visited as a day trip from either Dubrovnik or Split . So you could easily visit Croatia and make a very similar trip without a car .

In that case, I suggest that you stay 5-7 nights in each Dubrovnik and Split, and take a ferry between the two towns. Jadrolinija ferry 9811S runs between Dubrovnik, Korcula, Hvar, Bol, and Split, but only in high season from June 1 till September 30.

You could easily stop at one or the other island along the way and turn it into a Croatia island hopping trip. Please note that this is not a car ferry – passengers only. There is just one ferry a day, so you should probably book in advance.

Here are some suggestions for the best day trips from Dubrovnik and Split that bring you to the same places as the ones covered in our Croatia itinerary , but without having to rent a car.

Best Dubrovnik day trips to places mentioned in this Croatia itinerary:

• Day trip to Kotor .
• Korčula & Peljesac Day Tour .
• Day trip to Mljet National Park .
• Day trip to Mostar and Kravica waterfalls (a private tour is also possible). You can also make a similar day trip from Split.

Split day trips to places mentioned in this Croatia itinerary:

• Day trip to Mostar and Kravica waterfalls – also possible from Dubrovnik.
• Day trip to Hvar and the Blue Cave .
• Day trip to Plitvice National Park .
• Day trip to Krka National Park .
• Day trip to Brač and Šolta Islands .
• Historical Tour of Salona, Klis and Trogir from Split .

So, this is our suggested Croatia itinerary for 2 weeks, but it will also fit any trip of up to 14 days . Whether you are planning a self-drive road trip in Croatia, an island-hopping trip, or want to see the best of Croatia without a car, it should help you plan your own dream vacation in Croatia.

If you have any questions about our Croatia itinerary, feel free to leave a reply below and I’ll try to help.

READ ALSO: Blue Cave Tour from Split

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Monday 15th of January 2024

Hi Jurga, Thanks for sharing this. I will go to Croatia this end of April with my partner maybe you could help me for our itineraries since we will stay there for 14 days and this will be my first time in there and still confuse where to go.

Tuesday 16th of January 2024

Hi Sara, unfortunately, we really have no time to help our readers with individual itineraries. Our articles are already very detailed, providing all the info you need in order to plan your own trip. Just pick the places that interest you the most, see how/if you can visit them in the time that you have (and how long you'll spend in each area). Then decide how you'll travel (rental car, boats/flights, etc.). Planning your own trip is very rewarding - you do it based on your interests, pick accommodations and experiences that you like, etc. Good luck!

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

Jurga, as usual absolutely great, helpful, detailed itinerary! The same I can say about your Toscana itinerary! And now I just can’t choose )) May I ask you for some advice? In mid-October, with two kids aged 8 and 13, what do you think would be more exciting and suitable - Tuscany or Croatia? Thanks a million!

Wednesday 6th of September 2023

Hi Irina, that's a tough call - Tuscany vs Croatia. My personal choice would be Italy (every time ;)). But taking into account the season when you go and that you are traveling with kids, I think you'll enjoy Croatia more. The weather should still be ok for some beach time, pools, etc. and your trip will likely be more diverse and interesting for the children. Tuscany is more about old charming little towns, good wine and amazing food, so not as diverse as Croatia (assuming you'd visit most places from his itinerary). But you can't go wrong with either one of them. Good luck with your choice and enjoy your trip!

Greg turner

Saturday 8th of May 2021

Love this itinerary! Will hopefully be doing a lot on this list. Could you expand on the parking situation? I am not looking forward to it being an unaccounted, large expense. You mention parking meters.. is it safe to leave your car there overnight? Are overnight parking sites expensive?

Sunday 9th of May 2021

Hi Greg, we hardly had to pay for parking anywhere because we made sure that all the accommodation we booked had parking included. So most of the time we would just leave our car at the accommodation and walk everywhere (in the cities). And those few times we had to pay for parking it was such a small amount that I really wouldn't worry about it. It might be different if you have to pay for parking in Dubrovnik or Split for a few days, but if you get a place that has parking included, it's really the best way to do it. Those cities are best explored on foot, so park your car as soon as you get there and don't touch it until you leave.

Shweta Govindarajan

Wednesday 8th of January 2020

I love your detailed itinerary, super helpful. Thank you :)

Sunday 12th of January 2020

Glad to hear that, Shweta. Good luck with the planning and enjoy your Croatia trip!

Doreen Honey

Saturday 4th of January 2020

Hi my husband and I are planning a trip to Croatia in from 27/8 to 13/9. We will not be driving therefore will have to depend on buses and ferries. We like walking a lot so no problems with that. We are from Australia. Any suggestions please. I noticed that most of your trip was in Split and Dubrovnik therefore assuming that we can do daily trips from these 2 places. My husband will be going to Montenegro at the end of our trip for a cycling trip in the mountains and I'm coming home. We also thought about perhaps cruising from split to Dubrovnik say 3 nights. I look forward to hearing from you.

Hi Doreen, if you take a look at the 'Croatia itinerary without a car' section at the end of the article, you'll find our suggestions for exactly this - a trip that covers Dubrovnik and Split, with the best day trips you can do from both towns. It's really easy to do and the only things you need to arrange are the hotels and a transfer between the two cities (you can book a car transfer or book a ferry - it's all explained in the article). Hope this helps. Enjoy your trip!

• Croatia Tours
• Croatia Travel Guide
• How Long to Stay in Croatia

Great Croatia Itineraries: How Many Days to Spend?

• ~ mins read

Croatia is a small but stunning country where travelers can enjoy it all. Are you a beachgoer? Island hop around Hvar Island and lounge on gorgeous beaches, snorkel in crystal clear waters and enjoy stunning seaside sunsets. Foodie? Enjoy the local cuisine; from Dubrovnik to Zagreb you’ll never have a bad meal. History buff? From Roman ruins to museums, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained. Whether you’re a nature lover, adrenaline junkie or Game of Thrones fan, Croatia itineraries have something unique to offer you. In spite of its small size, Croatia is the kind of country that will keep you coming back for more.

• Jordan Pendle
• Valerie Kilfoil
• From Australia

How much time should I spend in Croatia?

Although you can see most of the country’s highlights with a weeklong Croatia itinerary, you’ll be rushing through all the sights trying to catch them all. If you have three weeks, you can travel all the way through the country, from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, but you’ll be dragging out the amount of time you spend in each spot to fill the space. With ten days you can still travel from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, but without getting tired of each location. It’s the perfect amount of time to spend — you'll be able to see it all while only taking a ten-day vacation.

1 week in Croatia

If you have seven days in your Croatia travel itinerary, you can see the country’s highlights. Start your trip in Dubrovnik, a beautiful old city full of gorgeous sights and delicious cuisine. Explore the city, from its famous walls and gorgeous architecture to its 13th-century pharmacy. When you’ve finished getting to know Dubrovnik, which, incidentally, was where they filmed King’s Landing in Game of Thrones, take an afternoon to hike up Srd hill to get some very Insta-worthy photos of the city and the surrounding Dalmatian Coast.

Enjoy a ride to the very end of the Peljesac Peninsula where you can catch a ferry to Korcula Island for a taste of Croatian hospitality, as you stay in a local’s home, and of the island’s distinct (and delicious) local food. The next day you can visit Croatia’s greenest island, Mljet, for a day trip. Take in the sight of the island’s two salt lakes and some of the clearest waters in the Adriatic. Spend a couple of days on Hvar before you head back to the mainland. Enjoy the island’s vibrant culture and seriously Venetian vibes as you get to know the “Queen of the Dalmatian Islands.”

And of course, finally, as with all Croatia itineraries, spend a day or two in Split . It is an absolutely stunning seaside town where ancient ruins are incorporated into modern life. For example, the unique ruins of Diocletian’s Palace, parts of which date back over 1700 years, have been repurposed as spaces for businesses.

Croatia in 10 days

With ten days to fill, you can put together the best Croatia itinerary; you can see everything above and more! With those extra three days, you can add in a trip to Zagreb , Croatia’s capital city. There are plenty of historic landmarks to explore in this colorful and quirky city. You can check out the local museums or, if you want something a little off-beat, visit the unique but popular Museum of Broken Relationships. Plus, with the local cuisine, you’re practically guaranteed to exclusively enjoy delicious meals, no matter where you’re eating.

If you’d rather use your extra time to take in some more of Croatia’s natural beauty, you can add a trip to visit the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park. Stop in the gorgeous little village of Rastoke on your way to the national park. Rastoke is well known for being ridiculously scenic, a small town nestled into the trees with waterfalls literally running through it. Once you’ve wet your whistle there, head on to Plitvice National Park where you can spend two days exploring. With sixteen picturesque lakes connected to one another by waterfalls and set against a backdrop of verdant forests with dramatic cliff sides, it’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth and you won’t regret adding it to your journey.

2 weeks in Croatia

With two weeks in your Croatia trip itinerary, you can really see most of the country’s highlights. Start inland, in Zagreb, and head to the aforementioned Plitvice Lakes National Park. Spend a day in Zadar , the oldest inhabited city in Croatia and your first stop on the Dalmatian Coast. In Zadar, you’ll find unique art installations (like the Sea Organ), fascinating history, and stunning sunsets. If you like to party, take a detour to Pag Island where you’ll find clubs and beach parties that last all night.

As you continue down the coast towards Split, take some time to stop at Krka National Park. If you were bummed to miss out on swimming at Plitvice Lakes (where it’s unfortunately not allowed), here at Krka you can dodge the summer sun for a little while by taking a dip in one of the 7 waterfalls. Plus you can enjoy an incredibly scenic hike on your way there.

Head on to Split and spend some time exploring the city. You can also join an island tour that will make sure you get to see Croatia’s famous Blue Cave, do some snorkeling in the crystalline waters, and explore Hvar by foot! Once you’ve wrapped up in Split, cruise on down to Omis, the country’s adventure capital and a must-see for those of you with longer Croatia itineraries. Zipline, river raft, or hike as you enjoy the natural beauty and adrenaline wonderland of Omis before continuing to Dubrovnik for your final stop!

3 weeks in Croatia

If your Croatia vacation itinerary has a full three weeks, there is nothing in this little country you cannot see. Spend a full four days getting to know Dubrovnik before heading to Korcula Island for another four. Ride bicycles to Lumbarda and enjoy day trips to nearby islands. Working your way up the coast, head to Hvar next and spend some time exploring the area (don’t forget to see the Blue Cave). Before you wrap up your island hopping, spend a couple of days on Brac and enjoy stunning seaside views and local wine.

For your final week, head up through Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, and ultimately to Zagreb. With a full week for this portion of the journey, you can stop anywhere along the way you’d like, enjoy day trips, and really make the most out of your journey. Three-week Croatia itineraries really do allow you to see it all.

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Get in touch with one of our travel experts in Croatia if you would like to create your own itinerary. If you’d like to book a package or join a group tour, check out our Croatia tour page for more ideas.

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How to Spend 8 Days in Croatia: The Best Croatia Itinerary

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Table of Contents

Whether you plan to spend 8 days in Croatia (more time or less), this Croatia 8 day itinerary is packed full of great travel planning inspiration! 

Seeing some of the most historic sites throughout the country as well as taking in some natural beauty as well. You’ll be sure to have the best road trip itinerary throughout Croatia in 8 days (or more or less!)

Use this Croatia travel guide to inspire your travels, but you know you best. If you’re more of a pack-it-all-in type of person (like I am!) or if you like to move along at a more leisurely pace. 

About Croatia

Croatia is a country located on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It’s located across the Adriatic Sea from Italy bordered by Slovenia to the north, Italy to the north (and west), and Bosnia and Montenegro to the East and Southeast. It has a population of about 4 million people and its capital city is Zagreb. Croatia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. The official language of Croatia is Croatian. Although many locals will speak English.

Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is home to many stunning beaches, mountains, and forests. Croatia is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and friendly people.

If you are looking for a beautiful, historic, and friendly country to visit, Croatia is a great choice! Let’s review how to spend an 8 days in Croatia itinerary.

8 days in Croatia

8 days is a great amount of time to road trip throughout the country of Croatia! However, it’s very easy to explore Croatia for 10 days or more. There’s so much to see and do after spending 8 days in Croatia you’ll be planning your next trip to return!

From the bustling capital, National Parks, and medieval coastal cities along the Adriatic Sea let’s dive into the details of how to spend 8 days in Croatia on a Road trip. (Renting a car and driving around.)

Getting to Croatia

Depending on where you’re originating from prior to arriving in Croatia you can get here via several different transportation means.

There are several ways to get to Croatia. When spending 8 days in Croatia, the most common way to arrive is by plane. There are several international airports in Croatia, including Zagreb Airport, Split Airport, and Dubrovnik Airport. 

You can also get to Croatia by train, bus, or car. There are several train and bus routes that connect Croatia to other European countries. If you are driving to Croatia, you might need to take a ferry to cross the Adriatic Sea.

Croatia travel tips

• Book your flights or tickets in advance, especially during the peak season (June-August).
• If you are driving to Croatia, make sure your car is in good condition and that you have all the necessary documents.
• Be aware of the different time zones in Croatia. Croatia is one hour ahead of Central European Time.
• Exchange your currency before you travel! Croatia’s currency is the Croatian kuna but euros are also accepted. Most places will take cards but, having a small amount of the local currency is a good idea.
• Get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses and lost luggage.
• Pack light clothing, as the weather in Croatia is warm and sunny most of the year.
• Be prepared for crowds, especially in popular tourist destinations.
• Learn a few basic Croatian phrases before you travel.

Best time to visit Croatia

The best time (and busiest time) is between the summer months of June through August. The heat is intense as are the crowds. If you want to spend a significant amount of time on the beautiful beaches or on the water exploring the islands of Croatia, this is the best time for those adventures! You’ll have plenty to do when spending 8 days in Croatia.

The weather is still lovely in April/May and also September. I would recommend traveling during one of those months to beat the crowds. Personally, that’s usually what I do. Shoulder seasons are my preference to beat some of the crowds and for it not to be sweltering hot yet. We visited at the end of April and early May and it was plenty warm. I learned the hard way and ended up getting sunburnt!

Weather in Croatia

The weather in Croatia is generally Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal areas are the warmest and driest, while the interior is cooler and wetter. The best time to visit Croatia is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists but many flock to this country along the Adriatic in the summer months to spend time near and on the water.

After spending 8 days in Croatia during the spring months of April and May, only one day it rained otherwise it was gorgeous and even got warmer than I had anticipated!

Weather by season in Croatia:

• Summer (June-August) : The summer months are the warmest and driest in Croatia. Temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) on the coast and 20°C (68°F) in the interior. There is little rain during the summer, making it an excellent time for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.
• Spring (April-May) : The spring months are a great time to visit Croatia if you want to avoid the crowds and the heat of summer. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F). There is also less rain than in the summer, making it a good time for hiking and exploring the countryside.
• Fall (September-October) : The fall months are similar to the spring months, with mild temperatures and little rain. However, the crowds are starting to return, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Croatia earlier in the fall.
• Winter (November-March) : The winter months are the coldest and wettest in Croatia. Temperatures average around 10°C (50°F) on the coast and 5°C (41°F) in the interior. There is a lot of rain during the winter, so it’s not the best time for swimming or sunbathing. However, it is a great time for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains.

Getting around Croatia

Croatia is a relatively small country, so getting around by car, bus, or train is easy. There are also many ferries that connect the islands to the mainland. 

If you are planning on doing a lot of traveling, it may be worth renting a car. If you’re planning on spending 8 days in Croatia (or more), renting a car will probably be your best bet! This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop wherever you want. Some cities have better parking situations than others. Zadar and Split were a little dicey! Always remember to check with your accommodation in advance if there is reserved parking available that is free or included with your stay.

However, if you only plan on visiting a few places, public transportation is a good option. Buses and trains are relatively affordable and connect most of the major cities and towns. Public transport is ideal for solo travelers and budget-conscious travelers.

There are also many taxis available, but they can be expensive. Uber is available in most cities in Croatia and is generally reasonably priced.

Additional Tips for Traveling Around Croatia:

• If you are renting a car, be sure to get one with air conditioning, as it can get very hot in the summer.
• When taking public transportation, be sure to have the correct change, as many buses and trains do not accept credit cards.
• If you are planning on taking a ferry, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
• Croatia is a hilly country, so be prepared for winding roads!
• Enjoy the scenery! Croatia is a beautiful country with much to offer visitors.
• Google Maps will serve you just fine as a navigation tool

Where to go: Itinerary 8 days in Croatia

Whether you’re spending a week in Croatia, or a little more than that 8 days or more here are some great locations in Croatia to build the perfect itinerary for your Croatian vacation. We’ll review the following locations (as well as inspiration of what to do): Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Krka National Park, Split, Hvar Island, and Dubrovnik.

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia located in the northwest of the country, at the confluence of the Sava and Ljubljanica rivers. Filled with historic sites, great food, and craft beer you can spend one day in Zagreb as the first stop on your Croatian adventures or the last stop before heading back home. 

There is so much to see and do, you can spend two to three days in Zagreb out of your 8 days in Croatia. Let’s review some of the main sights and things to see in the city.

Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square

Spending one full day in Zagreb, you’ll want to explore some of the main sights of the city. Start the day by heading to the main commercial square, Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square. The tram runs through this area and it is bustling with many people and shops. Next up, the funicular is located a short walk away. 

Zagreb Funicular

The funicular in Zagreb connects the lower town (Donji grad) with the upper town (Gornji grad). The funicular is 66 meters long and has a vertical rise of 36 meters. It takes about 60 seconds to travel between the two stations. 

Zagreb’s funicular was built in 1890 and is one of the oldest funiculars in the world. It is a popular tourist attraction and is also used by locals as a means of transportation. Plan ahead! You need cash to purchase a ticket for the funicular, they do not accept payment by card!

St. Mark’s Church Zagreb

St. Mark’s Church is a medieval church located in the upper town of Zagreb, Croatia. It is the second most important Croatian church (after the Cathedral of Zagreb). The church is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist and is the seat of the Archbishop of Zagreb.

It was built in the 13th century and has since been rebuilt several times. The current building is a Gothic Revival structure that was built in the 19th century. The church is famous for its colorful tiled roof, which features the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, Slavonia, and Istria.

St. Mark’s Church is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zagreb. It is a beautiful example of Croatian architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

There are many interesting facts about the church. The church is built on the site of a pagan temple. The bell tower of the church is the tallest building in Zagreb. The interior is decorated with frescoes by the Croatian painter Ivan Meštrović. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Grič Tunnel 

Grič Tunnel, also known as Tunel Grič, is a road tunnel in Zagreb, Croatia. It is located under the Gradec hill, connecting the city center with the lower parts of the city. The tunnel is 266 meters long and 8 meters wide, and it has two lanes in each direction. 

It was built in 1930, and it was the first tunnel in Zagreb. The tunnel is named after the Grič neighborhood, which is located above it. The tunnel is a popular tourist destination, and it is also used by commuters. It is open 24 hours a day, and there is no charge to use it. It can be quite eerie. When we walked through it it echoed a lot and there wasn’t a lot of foot traffic at that time. 

Lotrscak Tower

Lotrščak Tower is a medieval fort in Zagreb, Croatia. It was built in the 13th century and is located at the top of Gradec, one of the two historical towns that make up Zagreb. The tower is 27 meters tall and has a clock and a bell. It is open to the public and offers panoramic views of Zagreb.

Lotrščak Tower has a long and interesting history. It was originally built as a defensive tower, but it has also been used as a prison, a mint, and a museum. The tower is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who was once imprisoned there.

Lotrščak Tower is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zagreb. It is a great place to learn about the history of the city and to enjoy stunning views. The most popular time to visit is noon when the cannon is shot.

Stone Gate 

Located near St. Marks Church is Stone Gate. The Stone Gate (Croatian: Kamenita vrata) is a medieval city gate located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, Croatia. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city and a popular tourist destination. 

The gate was built in the 13th century and is one of the few remaining medieval gates in Croatia. It is made of stone and has two towers, one of which is taller than the other. The gate is decorated with a variety of sculptures and reliefs, including a depiction of the Croatian coat of arms. 

The Stone Gate has been through a lot of history and has been damaged several times, but it has always been rebuilt. It is now a protected monument and is open to the public. As you pass through the gate you will see that it’s set up as a shrine. 

Zagreb Cathedral

Zagreb Cathedral is the largest church in Croatia. It is located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was built in the Gothic style and is one of the most important landmarks in Zagreb. 

The cathedral was built in the 13th century, but it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1880. It was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style and was consecrated in 1906. The cathedral is 105 meters long and 32 meters wide. It has two towers, each of which is 91 meters tall. The cathedral is a popular tourist destination and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Opatovina Beer Street

Opatovina Beer Street is a street in Zagreb, Croatia, that is home to many bars and breweries. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the wide variety of beers on offer. This street is known for its lively atmosphere and many outdoor seating areas.

Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to try a variety of different beers from Croatia and around the world. There are also many restaurants on the street that serve traditional Croatian cuisine. Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to relax and enjoy a few beers with friends or family. It is also a great place to people-watch and experience the local culture.

Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to enjoy a few beers and experience the local culture. It is a lively and vibrant street with something to offer everyone.

Museums in Zagreb

Zagreb is home to many museums, each with its own unique collection and history. With so many to choose from, there is sure to be a museum that interests everyone.

Zagreb also has a number of smaller museums that focus on specific topics, such as the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Museum of Illusions, and the Museum of Torture.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes is a stunning National Park. With tiered lakes and waterfalls throughout the park, it’s unlike any waterfall you’ve ever seen. I’m a sucker for waterfalls and waterfall hikes but this was truly a sight to behold! 

There are many hotels close to Plitvice Lakes National Park . Depending on which entrance you’re planning on visiting from will help to determine where you should stay. We stayed at Hotel Jezero and it was so close to entrance 2 and perfect for exploring the park for a few days. Be aware, if you visit during high season (June-August) this hotel does not have air conditioning!

Spend at least a day at Plitvice Lakes. Or better yet two days out of 8 days in Croatia. If you aren’t taking a road trip throughout Croatia, you can choose to do a tour from Zagreb, Zadar, or Split to visit the beautiful National Park during a day trip.

But, if you’re road-tripping through Croatia (like we did!) after Plitvice Lakes drive to Zadar and spend some time in the northern coastal city. 

The city of Zadar is more compact yet has a lot of similarities to its southern neighbor, Split . Zadar was a lot quieter and especially when getting up earlier in the morning, we had many places mostly to ourselves. It’s very easy to visit Zadar in one day.

Zadar is definitely worth spending at least a day exploring the medieval coastal town. There is a lot to see and do, you can spend two to three days in Zadar beyond just the one day we were there. Let’s review some of the main sights and things to do in Zadar:

Gates of Zadar

Old Town Zadar is surrounded by ancient gates. The Sea Gate and Land Gate are truly a sight to see. Gorgeous structures with Venetian influence reflect the influence of Venitians in Zadar’s history.

I don’t like to play favorites, but the sea organ along the Adriatic Sea was probably my favorite thing about Zadr. It was up there with the Roman Forum Ruins. Seriously so unique and calming. The Sea Organ “plays” a tune as the waves wash up onto it. This is a must-see when visiting Zadar!

Greeting to the Sun

Right next to the Sea Organ along the promenade by the sea in Zadar is the Greeting to the Sun (or sun salutation), a monument on the south end of the waterfront. This monument is comprised of 300 photo sensitive glass plates that absorb the sunlight. 

Statue of Špiro Brusina

Continue farther along the walkway or promenade near the sea to the statue of Spiro Brusina. The statue features a man seated staring into a shell. He is a prominent Croatian natural scientist and zoologist dedicated to studying and promoting environmental protection. So he was a leave no trace advocate before it was a thing!

Roman Forum

Scattered throughout the Old Town area is the historic landmark that are casually sitting nearby more modern sidewalks in the highly trafficked area of Zadar. They date back to the first century BC and the 3rd century AD. While in Zadar it’s worth a stroll through these historic stone ruins just a hop and skip away from the beautiful sea front. 

Church of St. Donatus

Flanking the Roman Ruins in Zadar is the Church of St. Donatus. It’s within the central historic part of the city of Zadar. Close by is the bell tower and St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. All of these can be seen near the centrally located historic Roman Ruins of Zadar. 

To read more about where to eat and drink, where to stay, and park in Zadar. More details are in my One day in Zadar post! From Zadar, en route to Split stop and spend a day or partial day at Krka National Park.

• Krka National Park

When getting to Krka National Park the Lozovak entrance is the main entrance to the park. There isn’t much parking near the entrance so plan ahead! But, you’ll notice many of the restaurants and establishments in nearby Skradin will advertise parking available. 

Depending on what type of activities and things you want to see in Krka National Park you can visit in 4-5 hours, a full day, or over the course of several days and stay in nearby Skradin. It’s worth at least a partial day during 8 days in Croatia.

Let’s review some of the main things to do with One Day in Krka National Park :

Skradinski Buk Waterfall

Skradinski Buk is a waterfall on the Krka River in Krka National Park. It is the largest of the 17 waterfalls on the river and is a popular tourist attraction in Croatia. The waterfall is 17 meters high and 80 meters wide. 

The waterfall is made up of a series of cascades that flow over limestone cliffs. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including deer, bears, and wolves. It is also a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and fishing.

Skradinski Buk is a beautiful and impressive waterfall that is well worth a visit. The waterfall is located in a stunning natural setting and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Croatia.

Krka Monastery

Krka Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the Krka National Park in Croatia. The Krka monastery was founded in the 14th century and it is one of the most important monasteries in Croatia. Krka monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and frescoes, some of the best examples of Serbian Orthodox art. The monastery is also home to a library of over 10,000 manuscripts.

It’s located on the banks of the Krka River. The monastery is open to the public; visitors can tour the grounds and see the frescoes. To get here, you will have to ride a boat within Krka National Park. 

Roski Slap Waterfall

There are many different ways to travel throughout Krka National Park. But having a car will definitely make it a lot easier to get around. We spent about 5 hours in the park. Most of the things to see within the park we drove to. But we also rented some e-bikes to get to the Skradinski Buk Waterfall hiking loop faster.

You can choose to take boats throughout the park as well. If you want to actually go to the monastery, you will have to access it via a boat. We just chose to see it from the overlook. 

After spending a day in Krka National Park, make your way to Split which is just under an hour’s drive from the main entrance of the park to the heart of the coastal city of Split, Croatia. It’s also an option if you aren’t renting a car, to take a day trip to Krka from Split once you’re there. 

Let’s move on to the next location in Croatia for your 8 day itinerary, Split!

Split is a very vibrant and fun city. There is an Old Town area where you can explore ancient sites as well as a bustling port area. 

Ferries and day trips leave daily from the port in Split making it a perfect destination to explore beyond for a day or two. Be sure to include a ferry or day trip on a boat into your Split itinerary.

Let’s review some of the top things to do in Split for a week (or more) in Croatia.

Diocletian’s Palace

Known as the main sight to see within Old Town Split, Diocletian’s Palace covers almost half of the area known as Old Town. Technically you can explore the area all the time aside from the dungeons below, the bell tower and church have specific opening hours. The dungeons were awesome! I’d definitely recommend it.

When we visited, we looked at the landmarks in Old Town both at night and during the early morning & day. At night, many the historic monuments were lit up with an eerie moon glowing in the distance. I definitely recommend exploring during different times of the day.

Marjan Hill

Otherwise referred to as Marjan Forest Park. You will need a car to get here. There are also tours to guide you as well.

This is a little outside of the city center area of Split. It’s so worth it for the stunning view! We chose to do this as we were leaving Split. There is a bit of a staircase for part of the hike and it will take a little over two hours to climb.

Kliss Fortress

The Kliss fortress sits above the city of Split. The very last thing before leaving Split was visit the fortress. Kliss was used as the city of Mereen in the HBO series Game of Thrones. 

Views out over Split to the Adriatic Sea are abundant! It’s so gorgeous and well worth a last stop from Split to Dubrovnik.

While in Split, we also spent a day on the island of Hvar. Originally we were planning on having a boat tour but it was cancelled due to weather. It rained a little bit in the morning but then it was a gorgeous day. Our day on Hvar ended up being my favorite of everywhere we went throughout Croatia.

You can get to Hvar easily via ferry from Split. Visiting Hvar is possible for a day or you could spend a few nights there. There’s a lot to explore on Hvar! Let’s review some of the top things the island of Hvar is known for.

Our afternoon comprised of a wine tour. We went to two local wineries on the island of Hvar and got to sit down with the winemakers and chat with them. It truly was an experience I’ll never forget. It wasn’t anything like the uppity wine experiences in other wine regions, it was so authentic.

We sat around our wine tastings and talked about very real things and questions we both had about the USA and living in Croatia. Things that you would only know by connecting with a local on a very real level. These are the type of experiences that aren’t being a tourist but rather a traveler seeking to learn from the countries you experience.

Lavender Fields

The lavender fields on Hvar Island are best in June and July. Lavender fields are a sight to behold. The rows of purple flowers stretching as far as the eye can see are a beautiful sight.

The smell of lavender is also very calming and relaxing. Lavender fields are often used for their beauty and their therapeutic properties. Hvar’s lavender fields are a popular tourist attraction. They are also a popular spot for relaxation and meditation.

The majority of the lavender fields on Hvar are located in Zastražišće, Gdinj, Bogomolje, Brusje, Grablje, and along the road from Stari Grad to Hvar town. Lavender fields are a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. They are also a great place to take pictures. If you are ever lucky enough to visit a lavender field on Hvar, be sure to take your time and enjoy the experience.

Beaches on Hvar

Hvar is an island in Croatia that is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches on Hvar include:

• Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn) : This beach is located on the southern tip of Hvar and is known for its unique shape, which resembles a golden horn.
• Milna Beach : This beach is located on the western coast of Hvar and is known for its calm waters and crystal-clear sea.
• Sucuraj Beach : This beach is located on the eastern coast of Hvar and is known for its stunning views of the Pakleni Islands.

These are just a few of the many beautiful beaches that can be found on Hvar. Whether you are looking for a secluded cove or a lively beach with plenty of amenities, you are sure to find the perfect beach on Hvar.

Nightlife Hvar

Nightlife in Hvar is vibrant and exciting, with something to offer everyone. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from, as well as live music and DJs. The nightlife scene in Hvar is known for being lively and fun, and it is a great place to let loose and have a good time.

Here are some of the popular nightlife spots in Hvar:

• Carpe Diem Beach Bar : This beach bar is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach bar is known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
• Hula Hula Beach Bar : This beach bar is another popular spot for nightlife in Hvar. Most well-known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and fun events.
• Kiva Bar : This bar is a great place to go for live music and dancing. Kiva Bar is known for its eclectic mix of music, friendly atmosphere, and late-night hours.
• Culture Club Revelin : This club is a great place to go for a night out dancing. This club draws crowds due to the large dance floor, powerful sound system, and international DJs.
• The Garden : This club is a great place to go for a night out with friends. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and friendly staff.

No matter what you are looking for in a nightlife experience, Hvar has something to offer! So come and experience the vibrant nightlife scene for yourself!

Croatian Islands

If you have more time in Croatia than a week or 8 days, add on a few day trips or extensions to some Croatian islands. You can access some from Zadar but a majority are easier to get to from the port town of Split.

Croatia is home to over 1,000 islands, islets, and reefs. The largest island is Krk, followed by Cres, Hvar, Brač, and Pag. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush vegetation. These islands are popular tourist destinations which makes sense since they offer a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, biking, and sailing.

These are some of the most popular Croatian islands:

• Brač: Brač is the most popular island in Croatia, known for its beautiful beaches, including Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
• Hvar: Hvar is known for its nightlife, its beautiful scenery, including the Pakleni Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Hvar.
• Korčula: Korčula is known for its medieval architecture, including the town of Korčula, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .
• Mljet: Mljet is a national park, known for its dense forests, lakes, and beaches. It can be a little bit cumbersome to get here. It’s somewhat between the cities of Split and Dubrovnik.
• Vis: Vis is a remote island, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.

If you have a Croatia itinerary 8 days, more or less, Dubrovnik is the ultimate destination in Croatia. Sitting along the Adriatic Sea with history, ocean views, an Old Town surrounded by city walls, and nearby areas where you can relax on the beach and enjoy panoramic views, Dubrovnik has it all! 

Out of all of the cities we visited in Croatia, Dubrovnik is the least budget travel friendly. (Especially if you plan to stay in Old Town.)

Here are some things to include in your Dubrovnik 2 day itinerary . 

The Dubrovnik City Walls are a series of defensive stone walls that surround the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. The walls are 1940 meters long, 25 meters high, and up to 6 meters thick. They were built in the 13th century and have been well-preserved. The walls are a popular tourist destination and offer stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.

The walls were built to protect the city from invaders. They were successful in this task, as the city was never conquered during its long history. The walls were also used to control trade and commerce in the city.

The walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site . They are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia.

The Stradun, also known as Placa, is the main street in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is a popular tourist destination and is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The street is also home to many historical buildings, including the Rector’s Palace, the Sponza Palace, and the Church of St. Blaise. 

Stradun is a pedestrian street and is closed to traffic. It is a popular place for walking, shopping, and people-watching. The street is also a popular spot for taking pictures.

Rector’s Palace

Rector’s Palace is a palace in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was the seat of the Rector, the elected head of the city-state of Ragusa (Dubrovnik) from 1358 to 1808. 

The palace is located in the heart of the city, on the Stradun, the main street. It is a large, rectangular building with a central courtyard. The exterior of the palace is decorated with Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The interior of the palace is decorated with frescoes, paintings, and sculptures. 

Rector’s Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important historical buildings in Dubrovnik. The palace is a symbol of the city’s independence and culture. It is a must-see for any visitor to Dubrovnik!

Walking Tour

Much of Dubrovnik’s popularity is due to the HBO series Game of Thrones. There are many recognizable landmarks from the show. In Dubrovnik, there are many Game of Thrones tours that take you to all of the sites and provide additional context. If you enjoy the show, I’d definitely recommend taking one of these tours. 

There are several other more general walking tours in Dubrovnik to hear about the city and its history.

Dubrovnik Cable Car

Although the cable car was something we didn’t do in Dubrovnik, it’s a very popular attraction. You can alternatively take an Uber to see the same view for about half of the price! That’s what we chose to do.

FAQs: 8 days in Croatia 

How many days in croatia.

Spend at least three to four days of a long weekend in Croatia. During that time you should be able to explore at least a few different cities and regions. However, 7 days or more is better as you can truly cover a lot of ground and see the vastly different areas all over Croatia.

Should I visit Italy and Croatia together?

Yes! Depending on how much time you have a trip to both Italy and Croatia is definitely doable! You could start in Rome and visit Florence then head to Venice and take a ferry to Croatia from Venice. It would be a great way to visit both countries and get a taste of Italy and Croatia.

Is it safe to rent a car in Croatia?

Yes, it is safe to rent a car in Croatia. The roads are well-maintained and the traffic laws are generally followed. Overall, renting a car in Croatia is a safe and convenient way to get around the country. Just be sure to be aware of the local laws and regulations and drive safely.

How many days in Split and Dubrovnik?

Two days in Split and two days in Dubrovnik. You can easily spend more time in Split than in Dubrovnik due to the close proximity of so many islands and day trips that are much closer such as Krka National Park. You could easily spend 5 to 6 days between the two depending on what you want to do.

What to do in Croatia for a week?

Spend some time in the capital city of Zagreb, the coastal towns of Split and Dubrovnik, and be sure to visit a National Park. (Either Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park!) Take a ferry or a boat day tour from Split to explore nearby islands and enjoy the beautiful Adriatic Sea.

Final Thoughts: 8 days in Croatia

Whether you have a full week or a little over (8 days) in Croatia you can see so many vastly different landscapes and experience the vibrant Balkan culture the country has to offer. In conclusion, some of the main cities and locations to explore throughout Croatia include: 

• Plitvice Lakes National Park

It’s a lot to fit into 8 days, but in true WanderLust in Real Life fashion, I pack the itineraries to the brim wanting to make the most of all the time in any country or location. This itinerary could easily be expanded to help you plan how to spend 10 days in Croatia. You can’t realistically do everything in one trip but this truly is the best itinerary for Croatia.

I hope this has helped to inspire your Croatia vacation itinerary for a week (or any amount of time really!) Be sure to check out our WanderLust in Real Life YouTube Channel highlighting videos from our travels in Croatia.

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The Perfect 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary You Need to Steal

Last updated on January 17th, 2024 at 08:20 am

Croatia is a marvel on the Med, a gem full of naturally beautiful places to get lost in. With this curated 10 days in Croatia itinerary , you’ll have just the right amount of time to see all of the amazing spots Croatia has to offer.

This itinerary is designed to be packed with things to do and places to see – so if you’re more the type to check out and lay on the beach for ten days straight (I don’t blame you), just scroll down to day 5 to decide which island has the sun-chair with your name on it.

Take inspiration from the suggested routes in this guide and the links sprinkled in each section for more detailed location information to plan your perfect trip to Croatia!

Some of these links are affiliate links. This means if you make a purchase through that link, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read my full disclosure !

10 Days in Croatia Itinerary

Despite the country’s small size, 10 days in Croatia scratches the surface of what there is to see and experience in the country. It’s an ideal length to get a taste of every region and landscape. If you’ve got vacation time unspent, then I suggest adding a few more days in the larger cities of Split and Dubrovnik.

Day 1: Arrive in Zagreb

Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia and the first stop on the perfect 10 day Croatia itinerary. Try to snatch a flight that lands in the morning so you can spend the rest of your day exploring the city center.

Some of the best things to do in Zagreb are explore the Old Town and St. Mark’s Church, then head to the lower town and walk along the parks in the middle of the city bustle.

Check out more of the best things to do in Zagreb to plan your visit.

Where to Stay

Apartment with Cathedral View

This Airbnb was magical in the center of Zagreb! Not only was it conveniently walking distance from every attraction in the city, but from your window you have a picturesque view of the cathedral’s double spires.

Day 2: Hike Plitvice Lakes

If there’s one place you must visit in Croatia, it is Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a forested paradise of milky blue lakes and dreamy waterfalls.

The park is huge, so you’ll need at least half a day to explore. You can choose which path you want to take through the park at the entrance, where it also tells you the hour length of each path, and follow the corresponding signs as you go so that you don’t overstay if you’re running short on time.

I’ve got all tips for visiting Plitvice Lakes in this linked post, so I won’t ramble too much here – just know that it’s going to be on of the most epic spots on your 10 days in Croatia itinerary.

Villa Waterfalls

If you opt to stay the night to avoid making two big drives in one day, then treat yourself to a bit of luxury after being outdoors all day. But don’t worry, the price tag is still friendly! Villa Waterfalls has beautiful rooms and breakfast to enjoy before hitting the road again.

Day 3: Travel to Split

Split is a perfect home base throughout your travels along the Dalmatian Coast. Because of its central location around some of the most popular and beautiful sites in Croatia, it’s easy to take incredible day trips without adding inconvenience to your itinerary – like switching hotels every day.

Use your first day to explore the historic city center, the impressive marina, and of course, visit Diocletian’s Palace.

Charming City Apartment Ni-La

For budget-accommodation that is walking distance to the city center and comes with its own parking spot (a luxury in the city of Split) I recommend our Airbnb Ni-La! The host was amazing, even leaving us with a traditional Croatian game you can play at the beach.

The space plus the affordable price makes it a perfect home base in Split. (Unfortunately I don’t have pictures from the apartment – but you’ll find great photos at the link!)

Day 4: Venture to Trogir & Krka Waterfalls

On your first Split day trip, head north to the historic town of Trogir and the famous Krka National Park.

Trogir has a small, ancient historic center with narrow winding streets that lead you to a big marina and storybook castle. Head across the bridge and enjoy the beach, which is way less busy than beaches in Split.

To plan a day at Krka National Park, I have put everything you need to know in my Split to Krka Waterfalls guide .

These two areas are in the same direction, so if you use your time wisely, you can visit both in a day. Head to Krka National Park in the morning and end your evening in Trogir.

Day 5: Go Island Hopping

Set aside at least one whole day to explore the islands off of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast. The easiest way to island hop on a 10-day itinerary is to book a tour, but you have plenty of other options as well that I’ve broken down in my guide to island hopping in Croatia .

Spots you can’t miss are the quiet fishing towns of Vis, the stunning Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, and the Blue Lagoon – a perfect afternoon swimming spot.

Day 6: Stopover at Omis for a Beach Day

It’s time to leave the area of Split and make a stop along the way to the walled city of Dubrovnik.

Omis is a hidden gem town at the mouth of the Cetina River and canyon.

It offers adventure sports like canyoning and rafting, medieval castles high up on mountains, and a large, sandy beach perfect for families or, really just anyone sick of hurting their feet on rocky Med beaches.

Head to the beach or have an adrenaline-filled morning before you continue on your journey to Dubrovnik.

Day 7: Explore Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most popular city to visit. It is a bit out of the way, so you may want to skip heading up to Istria the next two days in order to spend more time in the historical wonderland that is Dubrovnik!

Explore Old Town, walk along the walls, and marvel at famous sites like Rector’s Palace.

If you feel like you’ve stepped into a scene of Game of Thrones, it’s because you have! Take a Game of Thrones themed tour in Dubrovnik to mix it up and explore the city from a cinematic point of view.

Apartments Luna

Apartments Luna may be the best budget stay in Dubrovnik. The apartment has a balcony with incredible views of the city and coast.

Day 8: Drive to Rovinj

Rovinj is the best town to visit in Istria. From the gorgeous beaches to the characteristic Old Town, there are so many things to do in Rovinj , all made better by the laidback, relaxing atmosphere.

Absolute must-dos: sunbathing at Lone Bay Beach, a stroll around Old Town up to the Church of St. Euphemia, and dinner in a vineyard at Tipico Green Garden.

Hotel Adriatic

For an unbeatable location on the marina of the Old Town, Hotel Adriatic is a good value, mid-range hotel for your stay.

For those looking to save a bit more and don’t mind an apartment stay, know that Rovinj is full of them! Walking around the neighborhoods just outside the town center, almost every other one transforms into a vacation home. If you don’t mind getting around on foot or bike to save some coin, stay in the outskirts in a vacation rental.

Day 9: Day Trip to Pula

Pula is a city rich with Roman history. The Coliseum-like arena and temples like the Temple of Augustus in the city center let anyone visiting know that!

The city truly comes alive in the evening, the perfect time to watch the sunset at the marina or head to the street “Ulica Sergijevaca” at the Arch of the Sergii to enjoy live music and the local, artisan shops.

For more to do in Istria, check out my 3-day itinerary .

Apartman Maja

This cozy studio apartment is walking distance to the center of Pula and has beautiful views over the marina.

Day 10: Return to Zagreb

Of course, your last day on your 10 day Croatia itinerary will probably be spent catching your flight home. If you are traveling back to Zagreb from the Istrian peninsula, make a pit stop in the medieval hilltop city of Motovun.

Or, take advantage of what I mentioned earlier in this post and plan your itinerary around an open-jaw flight. This way you won’t have to spend your last day backtracking, but rather you can make more of your time at your current location before heading home at the local airport.

Croatia Travel Tips

Best Time to Visit Croatia & For How Long

Croatia is an epic destination in summer.

However, there a few reasons why you may be deterred from visiting during the sunniest time of the year.

Firstly, it’s busy! Lots of tourists want to soak up the Croatian sun and enjoy the beaches.

Secondly, it’s pricey – at least on the coast. Nearly all tourist attractions have a calendar dictating entrance fees that vary throughout the year. You will pay at least double to visit an attraction in the months of July and August compared to September and October.

Lastly, lots of ferries and attractions won’t operate as frequently or even at all outside of the summer months.

But I can’t deny that Croatia is a summer destination. Opt to visit in June, before European vacations begin, where the weather is nice and prices are still on the cheap side.

Now for the fully-loaded question: is 10 days enough in Croatia? To get a little taste of everything, yes, this 10-day itinerary is an ideal length to stay in Croatia. The country is fairly small, so 10 days is long enough to accommodate traveling from place to place, but also means to see everything on your bucket list, your itinerary will be jam-packed.

So to make the most of your trip, hopefully you find tons of inspiration from this 10 days in Croatia itinerary!

If you prefer slower travel, I would definitely tack on a few extra days, extending your stay in Split and Dubrovnik to not only enjoy the larger cities, but take advantage of more day trip opportunities.

Arriving in Croatia

To save money, fly into Zagreb Airport. Any part of inland Croatia is way cheaper than the coast and it could mean significant savings on your flight to Croatia.

You should also fly into Zagreb because it’s a hidden gem many tourists overlook as they race to the pricey beaches. It puts you in a great position to visit another place in inland Croatia that is worth the extra travel time!

You could also take advantage of one of my favorite cheap flight hacks : search for open-jaw flights. This is when you fly into one airport but leave out of another – perfect if you don’t want to backtrack on your Croatia itinerary.

Getting Around Croatia

To make the most of a 10 days in Croatia itinerary, the best way to get around is with your own car. Renting a car in Croatia is straightforward and usually a lot cheaper compared to Western European countries.

Here are some things you’ll need to rent a car in Croatia:

• International Driving Permit
• Credit Card

You could also choose to get around Croatia by bus . While you’ll be confined to a bus schedule, it will likely be cheaper than renting a car. I would opt for the bus to save money if you have lots of time to travel in Croatia.

Other transportation options in Croatia include:

• Ferries (Perfect if you only want to go island hopping)
• Tours through companies like Contiki and EF Ultimate Break

Budget for 10 Days in Croatia

How much money do you need for a trip to Croatia? Depending on where you to travel to, Croatia can be an affordable European destination or the prices can resemble those of Western Europe. The more inland you travel, like to the capital city Zagreb, the cheaper prices will be for all aspects of your trip: accommodation, food, and transportation.

On the coast, the most tourist-driven economies of Croatia, things are more expensive but not outlandish.

Of course you budget will also depend on how many activities you do and how you are planning to get around.

For 10 days in Croatia, according to the data collected by BudgetYourTrip , you can expect to spend about $600 for one person for one week of travel. For 10 days, you should budget around $900 for your trip.

Croatia Basics

Getting around Croatia for 10 days means you’ll need to know some extra tips for a smooth trip.

• Currency: Kunas. In large cities, you’ll be able to pay with credit cards in most places, but in small towns and local shops, have cash in the local currency.
• Safety: Croatia is a very safe country to travel to. Beware of pickpocketing in crowded areas of big cities.
• Plug Type: C and F. Don’t leave for your trip without an outlet adapter !
• Language : Croatian is the national language of Croatia and the most widely spoken. However, you can get around only speaking English with little to no problem! Smaller, less developed towns particularly in the countryside may not be abundant with English speakers, but Croatia is well-traveled and you will be able to use English around any of its main attractions and major cities. If you speak Italian, you’ll get around perfectly in the region of Istria!

Have any questions about traveling in Croatia?

Leave a comment!

Save this itinerary to Pinterest for inspiration!

I hope this 10 days in Croatia itinerary inspires you when planning your own trip to Croatia!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and memorable itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Split Itinerary

Last Updated on January 29, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Split itinerary is something that ends up on almost everyone’s to-do list before visiting Croatia. But determining whether to spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Split can be a bit of a challenge when considering all there is to do in and around the city.

Although many tourists are adding this destination to their Croatia itineraries , Split is an amazing city to visit and an excellent base from which to explore Croatia’s Dalmatian coastline.

Its small size and proximity to many other Croatian attractions mean that you can be easily entertained and occupied no matter how long you spend here.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Split?

Even though it is Croatia’s second-largest city, from a tourist perspective, Split is actually quite small and you can easily see all of its main historical sites and attractions in just one day.

However, I would honestly recommend spending a minimum of 2 days in Split. This way, you will be able to see everything that the city has to offer and you could also go on a nearby day trip or spend some time at the beach.

If you have 3 days to spend, this is even better. This will ensure that you can get to all of the highlights within the city, see some of the towns and attractions within the closest proximity to Split and even get out to some of the further-flung day trips from Split.

Using Split as a base to explore southern Croatia and even parts of Bosnia & Herzegovina means that you could choose to spend however much or little time you might have to devote to your itinerary.

Getting To & Around Split

Like most elsewhere in the Balkans, Croatia does not have an extensive rail network and therefore train connections into Split are few and far between.

There is one train that runs from Zagreb , but it is neither frequent nor commonly used. My suggestion when you visit Split is to do as the locals do and hop on a much faster and more comfortable bus.

There are frequent connections both domestically and internationally and the network runs quite efficiently.

The fact that Split is a massive transport hub means that there are routes connecting the city to numerous other places in Croatia (such as Zadar and Dubrovnik ) and in neighbouring Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina and some even further. You can browse schedules for many bus companies here .

The Split bus station is also located incredibly close to the Split Old Town and you can easily get from there to anywhere in the city without too much travel time.

Split is also home to its own international airport that serves several different airlines and effectively connects the city across Europe and beyond. This means that it is quite easy to visit Split as a short weekend or city break.

The Split airport is located about 25 kilometres from the city centre and there are frequent buses that connect the two. It is also possible to take a relatively affordable Uber or Bolt ride to your accommodation without worrying about breaking the bank.

Split is also a major ferry port and you can visit a range of beautiful island destinations in Croatia (such as Brac, Korcula and Hvar island ) and even some connections to Ancona in Italy.

Once you’re in the city, you will find that it is compact and easy to navigate and explore Split on foot. In fact, if you’re just planning on visiting the city and not embarking on any day trips, you will find that you don’t need to rely on any other transport other than your own two feet. However, if you’re staying for longer and want to visit places outside the city of Split, you will find it easiest to rent a car.

Driving in Croatia is straightforward and the roads are well-maintained. While you can opt to take the bus to more mainstream and well-trafficked day trips from Split, it is far easier to visit multiple places in one day with your own vehicle and it will also allow you more flexibility.

If you are planning on renting a car in Croatia, we recommend using RentalCars.com to find deals on car hires across many available companies.

It can also be a good idea to take out a third-party excess insurance policy with iCarHireInsurance to save money on high prices for insurance from the rental car company while also ensuring that you won’t have to pay a deductible should any damage happen to the car.

1, 2 or 3-Day Split Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know before heading to Croatia’s second-largest city, it’s time to dive right into the perfect Split itinerary! No matter if you’re planning to spend one day or want to see Split in 3 days or more, follow this itinerary with each successive day to ensure that you have a great trip to this Adriatic gem of a city!

Day 1 – Diocletian’s Palace, Riva & Marjan Hill

If you only have one day in Split, spend it in Split’s old town and Diocletian’s palace area (which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site) taking in all of the main sites.

Cathedral of St Domnius

The best first stop is the Cathedral of St Domnius. As the main Catholic Cathedral in Split, this church is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is the seat of the Archdiocese of Split-Makarska. Located in the centre of Diocletian’s Palace, it is one of the most distinct buildings in the old town of Split.

What makes this church unique is that it once served as the mausoleum for the Roman Emperor Diocletian — for which the palace was constructed for him to live out his retirement. The oldest part of the cathedral, the part that was once the mausoleum, dates back to the 3rd Century CE.

If you want to get some of the best views of Split and the harbour, then make sure to climb up the bell tower.

You do have to pay to do this and though there aren’t too many stairs in the bell tower, however, be aware that some of them are quite slick and steep.

Jupiter’s Temple

After enjoying the Cathedral, head over to Jupiter’s Temple — another remnant from Diocletian that was then later repurposed for the Christian takeover.

Originally a temple for the god Jupiter (Zeus) — from whom Diocletian believed he was descended — the building was then repurposed into a Catholic baptistry.

The structure itself is quite small and is located in front of the temple, where you can also see one of the two Egyptian sphinxes that Diocletian imported from Egypt. The other, which is more intact, can be seen in the square in front of the cathedral.

Fish Market

After taking in these historical sites, it’s time to browse something very dear to Croatian culture, a local market! And in the centre of Diocletian’s Palace lies a thriving fish market where locals can hawk their fresh catch. This is an excellent place to see what is native to the Adriatic waters and to see where locals source their seafood.

The market is open daily from 6 AM to early afternoon, however, it is worth noting that it’s least active on Mondays. This is because most fishermen don’t go out on Sundays and therefore there is no fresh catch to sell the next day.

You can see all these sights and also learn more about the history of Split and Diocletian’s Palace by taking this walking tour with a local guide . And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you may love this tour of the show’s filming locations .

Green Market

Visiting local markets is one of the best ways to get an insight into local cultures and it’s one of my favourite things to do wherever I visit, and Split is no exception!

Not far from the old town lies the Green Market, an expansive fruit and vegetable market where you can get everything from local produce, cheese, flowers, homemade wine and rakija and much more.

If anything, I would recommend skipping the typical souvenir shops and browsing through this area to find something unique to bring home. You also have the added benefit of supporting a local vendor!

After a morning of sightseeing, it’s time to stop for a bit of lunch. There are lots of places to eat in Split, but not everything is of the same quality.

If you are looking to chow down on some local fare away from the tourist traps, however, I recommend finding a table at Villa Spiza . This locally-run restaurant tucked away in a quiet alley serves delicious local seafood at affordable prices with friendly and attentive service. It is local and tasty and highly recommended.

If you’re after something a bit more on the fast-food side but still using fresh local ingredients, then you can’t go wrong with Zlatna Ribica . This fried fish bar is located close to the fish market, so you can see where they source their produce from! It is affordable, quick, and super popular with locals.

If you want to learn more about Split cuisine, then you can consider taking a food tour.

After lunch, work off all that food with a leisurely stroll down Riva, the newly renovated seaside promenade.

This area is completely pedestrianised and lined with open-air cafes and benches and there are also some local vendors that have stalls set up. This is a great place to browse for some unique souvenirs or just lounge and people-watch.

Marjan Park

After spending most of your day exploring the old town and Diocletian’s Palace area, it’s time to work up a bit of a sweat and head to Marjan Park, a hilltop park area that is located to the west of the city centre.

Construction on the hill has been banned by the Croatian government and provides a rare solace from the rapidly-changing Dalmatian coast.

You can hike up to several beautiful viewpoints in the park to se Split and its surrounding islands. The highest point at the top of the hill, the Telegrin viewpoint, offers the best views of the area. This easy city hike is one of the best things to do in Split.

The lower Vidilica viewpoint near the Jewish cemetery has better views of the old town itself and there is also a nice cafe there.

After enjoying a sunset view from Marjan Park, it’s time to end the day by heading to dinner. We recommend eating at the trendy Bokeria .

This place serves absolutely delicious modern Croatian cuisine at agreeable prices. The service is fantastic, as is the wine list.

Located in Diocletian’s Palace, it is also worth it to go for a short stroll through the city streets once the sun goes down and enjoy the beauty of Split by night.

Day 2 – Trogir, Omiš & Beach Time

If you have 2 days in Split, spend your second day on an excursion to a nearby town or two. Or else, if the weather is fine, head to the beach and soak up the beautiful sunshine!

One of the most popular day trips from Split is to the UNESCO-listed island town of Trogir. Located only about 30 kilometres from Split’s city centre and actually very close to the Split International Airport, this is a great place to reach by bus as well if you haven’t rented a car on your trip.

Trogir is an absolutely charming and historic town located on its own island that is accessible by a small bridge from the mainland. The town is small but will instantly take you in by its beauty.

Take the time to wander around its lovely seaside promenade and maybe stop for a coffee, drink or ice cream and watch the people go by and the boats come in and out of the harbour.

You can reach Trogir in about 30-45 minutes by car from Split and buses leave frequently from the main bus station, as well. If you want to save money on parking, make sure to find a spot in a lot before you cross the bridge into the town itself.

You can also visit Trogir by taking an organised tour or alternatively, if you have your own transport, take a 1.5-hour walking tour when you arrive to learn more about the town.

Another close-by yet more off-beat day trip from Split is the lovely town of Omiš, which is located 30 kilometres south of Split. Though this town is small, it is absolutely lovely and worth venturing down to visit it.

Known for its dramatic cliffs that jut into the harbour and also for its great beaches, this is the perfect place to visit if you want to avoid hordes of tourist crowds and just see a charming Croatian seaside town that holds onto its local feel.

There are some great places for swimming and also some good cafes, so plan to linger. You can also take a half-day tour to nearby Cetina River for rafting if you’re feeling more adventurous!

Though there aren’t any beaches in the immediate city centre of Split, you don’t have to venture far to find a place to lay out your towel or grab a lounging spot on the water.

The majority of Split’s beaches are pebble or rock, so don’t go in expecting soft white sand, however, the water is clear, calm and warm in the summer and early autumn months (the latter of which is arguably the best time to visit Split) so it is an ideal place to go swimming.

The most popular beaches in Split include Bacvice and Firule. There are also some lesser-visited beaches located at the foothills of Marjan Park. You can also go on a boat tour to some swimming spots and islands if you prefer to spend the day on the sea!

Day 3 – Krka National Park & Šibenik

If you have 3 days in Split, spend it on a longer day trip to some places that lie further afield. These two options can be done in one day and make for an excellent day out from the city, especially if the weather is warm.

Krka National Park

Krka National Park is one of the most popular places to visit from Split and it is also one of the most beautiful natural sites in Croatia. A bit like a smaller version of the wildly popular a busy Plitvice Lakes National Park , Krka is closer to Split, more affordable to enter and also allows you to swim in its inviting waters.

Noted for its dramatic waterfalls, no visit to Split is complete without venturing to Krka. Located about an hour’s drive north of the city centre, it is also reachable by bus or private tour. This small-group tour that combines Krka & Šibenik is a fantastic option if you don’t have your own car.

Located about 10 kilometres from Krka National Park and about 80 kilometres north of Split, Šibenik is one of the best and most beautiful places to visit in Croatia and the perfect place to visit on your Split itinerary.

Šibenik is a small and charming town located directly on the Adriatic that is packed with beautiful, winding streets and some great restaurants to eat at, as well.

Due to their proximity, it is really easy to combine a trip to Šibenik with a visit to Krka National Park and be able to get the most out of both.

Šibenik is best visited without a plan and you will find that you will be duly rewarded if you just let your feet lead you where they will and let yourself wander through its incredibly picturesque cobbled streets in the old town.

You can reach Šibenik by bus from Split and by car in about 1 – 1.5 hours.

Have More Time?

If you have more in Split, consider spending more time on some of the great day trips that you can do. For instance, Split is the main hub for ferries to many Dalmatian islands, meaning that planning a day trip to the islands of Hvar , Brač or Šolta is easy to do.

If you want to see more of the Balkans and experience a different culture and learn more about the history of this complex region, then consider going on a day trip to the town of Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina.

You also can visit some of the other highlights of southern Bosnia including Blagaj monastery and Kravice waterfalls along the way.

Where to Stay in Split

Kastel 1700 Boutique Hotel – This 3-star hotel is a great choice for mid-range visitors to Split. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with an excellent location perfect for exploring all Croatia’s second city has to offer.

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites  – A fantastic option for those looking for luxury accommodation in Split, this centrally located boutique hotel is a great choice for couples or those looking for a plush escape in Split. They have spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms available and there is a great breakfast included.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  – This backpacker’s hostel is the ideal choice for budget and solo travellers alike. They have great common areas for meeting other like-minded travellers, a helpful staff, and clean facilities. They offer both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other options in Split

Split has a lot to offer visitors not only as a great base to explore Dalmatia but as an interesting destination in its own right. Planning out the ideal Split itinerary is sure to give you a Croatian holiday to remember. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Split or are using it as a base to explore the region, you’re sure to fall in love with this city.

Are you planning to visit Split? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Ultimate Korcula Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Ljubljana or Zagreb: Which City Should You Visit?

How To Plan a Split to Mostar Day Trip

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

One day to spend outside of Split. Got to Togir and Omis or visit Krka and Sibernik?

It really depends on what you’re after as they’re all great options. If you’re keen to simply explore some historic towns, then go to Trogir and Omis. If you want some natural scenery, head to Krka. It also can be weather-dependent 🙂

Thank you Maggie for your excellent introduction of Split to me, a first timer to Split on 2-6 June after my business trip in Amsterdam. While I will follow your itinerary, I am considering an inclusion of a day trip. Which one is better in terms of attractiveness, value for money and convenience: a trip to Mostar’s iconic Old Bridge or a day trip to Dubrovnik? Thanks very much!

I would personally recommend heading to Mostar if you only have time for a day trip. We have a guide on this here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/split-to-mostar-day-trip/

Excellent information and easy to digest,

Thanks, Diana! Hope you have a great time in Split 🙂

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2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary – 14 Days to Visit the Most Beautiful Places in Croatia

2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary Dalmatia, Istria and Inland Croatia

Our Croatia itinerary covers the top places to visit in Croatia; from stunning coastal towns to UNESCO sites and beautiful national parks. We think a 14-day itinerary is ideal for visiting some of the most beautiful places in Croatia but our itinerary is customizable. This itinerary is perfect for first time visitors since it was our first time in Croatia and we’ve included many must-see places. However, feel free to adjust it based on your interests and time frame. If you are foodies, you might like to spend more time in Istria. If you love the beach, you can easily spend a week on the islands. If you hate over-crowded cities or it’s not your first time in Croatia, you might want to skip Dubrovnik. You can mix and match some of our top recommendations to build your perfect Croatia itinerary for a week, two weeks or even more.

Croatia is an easy country to fall in love with. Crystal clear water, some of the most beautiful historic towns we’ve ever seen, breathtaking views, stunning national parks, delicious food, old traditions that are kept to this day and easy-going and friendly locals. It also doesn’t hurt that Croatia is quite budget-friendly, in terms of a European country. Be aware that some of the most popular cities have become quite over-crowded (thanks to Game of Thrones) but there are still so many off the beaten path destinations to add to your Croatia itinerary. So let’s start planning the perfect 14 days in Croatia itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a small commission if you purchase from them (no extra costs to you!). For details check our disclaimer .

Table of Contents

Essential facts for your croatia itinerary.

Location: Croatia is located at the crossroad of Central and Southeast Europe. It’s part of the Balkans and shares borders with Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Slovenia and Hungary (and a maritime border with Italy).

Size: Croatia has an area of 56,594 square kilometres (21,851 square miles)

Language: Croatian. In some parts of Croatia, you can also find other languages such as Czech, Hungarian or Italian. English is wildly spoken especially in the main tourist destinations.

Currency: Croatia Kuna (USD 1 = 6.7 kn) check the updated currency exchange here

Population: About 4.2 million inhabitants

Religion: Most of the Croatians are Roman Catholics

WiFi and Connectivity Croatia

Most time, especially in the major cities, you won’t have a problem with finding free WiFi during your Croatian holiday. However, if you are planning on renting a car or you’d like to stay connected all the time, we recommend buying a local sim card. There are several major cell carriers in Croatia such as T-Hrvatski Telekom (T-HT), A1 , and Tele2 . If you are planning a one week itinerary in Croatia, T-HT and A1 offer a 7-day package with unlimited surfing. We chose Tele2 since it provides 10 GB of data and 200 minutes of calls within Croatia, not limited in time, which was perfect for our 14-day Croatia itinerary. All of these companies have good reception around Croatia, though T-HT is considered better if you are planning to visit the islands during your 2 weeks in Croatia. The cost of a local sim card in Croatia is approximately € 9-11.

Best Time to Visit Croatia

Croatia’s weather conditions are different along the coast and inland. Along the coast, the weather conditions are typical of the Mediterranean climate. Hot summers and wet and mild winters. The continental climate in the inner parts of Croatia means pleasant summers (though heat waves are becoming more common) but freezing winters accompanied by snow.

Generally speaking, May-June and September-October are the best months to visit Croatia , depending on your interests, of course. Beach lovers would enjoy the months of July and August, but they will have to fight for their spot on the beach since this is the high season. Foodies might consider planning their Croatia itinerary during the fall season when there are many gourmet food festivals in Istria and it’s the best season for truffle hunting. If you’d like to experience a magical Christmas, Zagreb has one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

We visited Croatia at the beginning of June and the weather in Dalmatia was already very hot, we can’t imagine how hot and hectic it is to explore Dubrovnik during July-August. The weather in Istria was very pleasant but in Zagreb, we encountered an unexpected heatwave followed by showers of heavy rain (which only lasted for a short time).

How to Get to Croatia

By plane: There are several international airports in Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, Zadar and Pula.

By Ferry: Since Croatia has such a long coastline and shares a maritime border with Italy, during the season, you can catch a ferry from a few Italian cities to several Croatian ports. There is only one ferry that operates year-round from Ancona to Split. Check the ferries’ routes and schedules . 

By bus: You can catch a bus to Croatia from many European countries such as Slovenia, Italy, Germany, Czech Republic, Switzerland and other countries. Zagreb has the biggest and busiest bus terminal in Croatia but you can also catch a bus to some of the most popular towns along the Dalmatian coast or Istria. To plan your Croatia itinerary, check the bus routes here .

By Train: You can catch a train from many European cities to Zagreb. Some routes can take you to Pula, Rijeka or Split, but sometimes you’ll have to include a visit to Zagreb in your itinerary if you are planning to arrive to Croatia by train.  To help you plan your Croatia itinerary, check suggested routes here .

By Car: If you’re arriving from one of the neighboring countries, you can easily cross the border with your car. Since Croatia is a member of the EU, there are no customs controls, only police control. You have to have a valid passport or European identification card. The lines can get very busy during the summer vacation, especially on Fridays and Saturdays so consider that when planning your itinerary. Check out these popular border crossing points with driving directions.

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Getting Around Croatia

Many people choose to rent a car during their vacation and embark on a Croatia road trip. , but unless you are planning to visit Istria, it’s not necessary, and even in Istria, you can visit many of the significant points of interest with buses or tours so consider that when planning your Croatia itinerary. During our 2 weeks in Croatia, we chose to mix and match, so we started our trip without a car and then rented a car from Split. Our Croatia road trip included the Istrian peninsula, Plitvice and Zagreb.

By Car: If you are planning on a 14-day Croatian road trip, you can plan a very flexible itinerary but make sure to get accommodation with parking. Generally speaking, the conditions of the roads in Croatia are pretty good, making driving in Croatia very easy. You can choose to take the highway which might include tolls (the toll is calculated by the end destination) or the slower coastal roads. In Istria, the roads were very narrow at times but generally speaking, we didn’t have any issues. 

Before starting your 2-week Croatia trip, make sure to download the Croatian Auto Club app which provides information about traffic and road conditions. Also, make sure to have GPS or Waze to help you navigate. Don’t forget to review the driving rules and speed limit before hitting the road. Check out this document with a summary of rules and regulations for driving in Croatia . 

Insider tip: since in some places you might have no signal, it’s always a good idea to download a map of the area from Google Maps or buy a regular map before starting your 2-week Croatian road trip.  

By Bus: If you don’t want to rent a car, no worries, You can plan your Croatia itinerary Croatia’s public bus transportation which is pretty comfortable and affordable. The bus system in Croatia is pretty good, and most time it’s preferable to the train. During the high season, it’s always better to book your tickets in advance . 

Language and Phrases for your Croatia Itinerary

We had a hard time pronouncing some of the names that are mentioned in this Croatia itinerary and travel guide. So to save you some trouble during your 14 days in Croatia, follow these rules:

C = pronounced like ‘ts’ (as in cats)

Č = pronounced like ‘ch’ (as in child)

J – pronounced like ‘y’ (as in yet)

NJ – pronounced like ‘ny’ or the Spanish ‘ñ’ (as in canyon)

š – pronounced like ‘sh’ (as in short)

Ž – pronounced like ‘su’ (as in sugar)

Dž/Đ – pronounced like ‘j’ (as in enjoy) Check out the difference here

A few words in Croatian:

Da – Yes

Ne – No

Hvala – Thank you

Molim – please

Oprosti – Excuse me

Dobro jutro (doh-broh you-troh ) – Good morning

Doviđenja (doh-vee-jen-yah) – Goodbye

Check out the Learn Croatian website for additional useful words and their pronunciation to make your life easier during your 2 weeks in Croatia.

Where to Go in 2 Weeks in Croatia

Croatia is divided into several counties or regions, out of which the most popular one is Dalmatia. But if you have enough time, try to add to your Croatia itinerary some of the lesser-known counties such as Istria. When we planned our 2-week Croatia itinerary we wanted to include some of the popular towns such as Dubrovnik and Split with off the beaten path hidden gems. Therefore, we chose to spend a few days in Istria and believe us, this area is magical. Nevertheless, we’ve included in our 14 days in Croatia itinerary several options for travelers with different interests. And we would give you a few options in the end for a shorter or longer itinerary. Therefore, you can mix and match or customize this Croatia itinerary to suit your needs and interests and plan your own ultimate Croatia itinerary for 1 week, 2 weeks or more.

Dalmatia Coast Highlights for your Croatia Itinerary

Dalmatia county lies along the west shore of Croatia, stretching from the Bay of Kotor in the south to the island of Rab in the north. It’s known as one of the most beautiful areas in Croatia thanks to its stunning historic towns and beautiful coastline. The name Dalmatia originates from an Illyrian tribe who lived there in the past, but this region has seen its fair share of wars and turbulent times and among its conquerors, you can count the Byzantines, Greeks, Venetians and Sicilians to name a few. This complex history that has left its mark on the historic towns, combined with the breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear water of the Adriatic Sea attracts millions of tourists every year. In our opinion, Dalmatia needs to be a part of your Croatia itinerary.

Top Places to Include in your 14-Day Croatia Itinerary

The most famous town in Croatia, has become even more popular thanks to Game of Thrones. Many tourists flock to this historic city every month, especially during the summer months. Dubrovnik is simply breathtaking. The views of the historic town surrounded by the ancient walls and the orange-colored terracotta rooftops which provide the perfect contrast to the blue waves of the Adriatic Sea, will take your breath away. However, if you plan your Croatia itinerary during the summer months, you should be prepared to be crammed inside the old city with thousands of other tourists.

At first glance Split might not have the WOW factor compared to Dubrovnik, but it was our favorite city in Dalmatia thanks to its old town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the foodie scene and convenient location in the center of Dalmatia. If you don’t like to move from place to place every day, you can spend a week in Split and go on day trips to some of the most beautiful places in Croatia. Split is also a convenient stepping stone to reach the islands. Therefore, we recommend including in your Croatia itinerary at least a few nights in Split.

Trogir is another stunning historic town which is located only 30 km away from Split. Its historic walled center is situated on an island and connected to the mainland by a bridge. Trogir’s old town is also recognized by UNESCO but it’s much more laid-back and less crowded than Split. 

Šibenik

Just north of Trogir, Šibenik  (pronounced Shee-be-nik ) is another beautiful city with charming historic sites and monuments, some of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It also has excellent beaches, stunning viewpoints, and it’s very close to one of the most beautiful places in Croatia, Krka National Park. 

Krka National Park

Krka National Park (pronounced Kerr-ka ), one of the most famous national parks in Croatia, is located only a short distance from Šibenik. If you don’t have a lot of time and you’d like to see why people are raving about Croatia’s natural beauty, Krka is the place to go. You can reach it relatively easily from any major city in Dalmatia and drown yourself in the turquoise and emerald green hues of the waterfalls and lakes of Krka. We chose to visit Plitvice but you should definitely include a visit to one of these national parks in your Croatia itinerary. 

Insider tip: You can jump into the crystal-clear water of Krka in certain places, unlike its competitor, Plitvice National Park, where it’s forbidden.

One of the cities that have been getting more visitors lately is Zadar. It’s still much less crowded than Dubrovnik and Split, but it attracts more crowds thanks to its charming historic center and unique monuments such as the Monument to the Sun and the Sea Organ. Zadar also has its own international airport and is close to one of Croatia’s most interesting islands, Pag Island. 

The Croatian Islands

When you think about Croatia, you immediately imagine the crystal-clear water of the Adriatic Sea and spending your days at the beach. Well, if you’re a beach lover, you must include at least a couple of nights on Croatian’s beautiful islands in your 2-week Croatia itinerary. There are many islands to choose from, but depending on your schedule, you can either spend a few nights on a couple of islands or take an island-hopping tour from one of the coastal towns.

Top Islands to Include in your Croatia Itinerary

Hvar (pronounced Kvar with a soft k) is probably the most famous island in the area and rightly so. You’ll find here beautiful historic towns, scenic beaches and ancient monuments. Though it’s known as a party island, it’s big enough to find some peace and quiet in an off the beaten path spot. You could easily spend here 3 nights without being bored so if you have a longer itinerary or you’d love to spend more time on the beach, we suggest adding a 3-night stay on Hvar to your Croatia itinerary.

Korčula

Korčula (pronounced Kor-Chula ) is another famous island but with a more laid-back atmosphere than Hvar. Other than a beautiful historic town, charming villages and quiet beaches, you’ll also find here lots of olive groves and vineyards. 

Though Brac is the closest island to Split, it’s less touristy than Hvar and Korčula. On Brac, you’ll find small villages with an authentic atmosphere and a unique blend of olive oil which is made from the Buhavica olive trees. Though Brac has less vegetation and more rocky beaches than some of the other islands, one of the most beautiful beaches in Croatia, Golden Horn , is located here just near the town of Bol.

Vis is one of the smallest islands in the area, but it’s a hidden gem. If you’ve seen the sequel to the movie Mamma Mia , you are already familiar with its pristine beaches and breathtaking views. You’ll find here small fishing villages, endless beaches, bays and coves, and the cherry on the top is the wine culture since Vis is also known for its vineyards.

Mljet (pronounced Mil-yet ) might be the perfect island for you if you’d rather spend your time doing some hiking or cycling, and you’d like to get away from the crowds. Mljet is known for its beautiful national park which includes two inland lakes and miles of cycling and hiking trails. Other than that, you’ll find there a few small villages and beautiful bays and beaches. Nature and sports lovers, this is a good island to include in your 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary. 

Pag is one of the most interesting islands in Croatia thanks to its split personality. On the one hand, during the summer months, it’s a well-known party-island that attracts European youngsters who like to spend their days partying and drinking. On the other hand, this rocky island has a very unique appearance, sort of moon-like landscape if you will and it is best known for producing the most famous Croatian cheese, Pag cheese. Another attraction for culture and art lovers is the famous Pag lacework which together with Hvar lace was inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity .  Pag Island offers a mixture of attractions and is still relatively unknown so if you are looking for hidden gems, consider visiting it during your two weeks in Croatia, 

Istria Highlights for your 2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary

The Istrian peninsula is still relatively unknown, but this beautiful heart-shaped peninsula which is located in the westernmost part of Croatia, is Croatia’s rising star. It has a very different vibe from Dalmatia and though the historic towns of the Dalmatian Coast are gorgeous, the Venetian architecture and colorful villages of Istria won us over in a heartbeat. Istria is also known as the foodie county of Croatia thanks to its vineyards, small olive oil producers, cheese farms, seafood and truffles! Some of the most beautiful places in Croatia are located here! 

Pula is the largest city in Istria and its location at the southern tip of the peninsula makes it an excellent steppingstone to explore both Cape Kamenjak and Brijuni National Park . It’s also known for its beautiful Roman monuments.

Rovinj is our favorite town in Istria. It can be pronounced ro-VEEN or ro-VEEN-ye  or according to its Italian name Rovingo (Pronounced ro-VEEN-yo ). Rovinj’s historic center used to be an island, and it’s one of the most charming places to see in Croatia. Get lost in the cobbled alleys between the colorful houses and laundry lines. The Venetian architecture is stunning, and this is the place to find unique boutiques. Rovinj’s charming harbor, lively foodie scene and convenient location in the middle of the western coast of the Istrian peninsula make it the perfect base from which to explore the Istrian peninsula. If you have enough time, we’d include it in your Croatia itinerary since it is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. 

One of the most beautiful places in Istria is located very close to Rovinj. The view of the deep green and blue hues of Lim bay is going to take your breath away. You should definitely take a boat tour to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of one of the most beautiful places to visit in Croatia.

Poreč (pronounced Po-rech ) is another charming coastal fishing village with a beautiful historic center. Just like Rovinj, Poreč offers a mixture of historical monuments, cobbled alleys, a beautiful harbor and a convenient location.

Just up the coast you’ll find Novigrad that lately has been gaining a name for itself as a foodie town. Other than excellent restaurants, you’ll find here lovely beaches and a charming historic center.

If you’ve seen a photo of a beautiful Istrian town perched on a cliff, surrounded by vineyards and mysterious fog, you’ve probably seen a picture of Motovun. Like many villages in Istria, Motovun’s location is breathtaking but there’s something extra special about the sight of Motovun from the road in the early morning hours that appeal to many photography enthusiasts and makes it one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. It is a pleasure to discover the historical monuments and views from this quaint hilly town.

Grožnjan

Grožnjan (pronounced Groj-ni-yan ) is known as the village of artists, and while we were wandering in the narrow streets, we discovered many hidden gems. You’ll find here artistic souvenirs and beautiful medieval houses adorned by decorative displays and breath-taking scenery from the homey little coffee shop.

Labin is another medieval hilltop town which used to be the most important mining center in Croatia. Nowadays, you can find here a few galleries, charming alleys, historical sites and gorgeous views of the Adriatic Sea.

Inland Croatia

We haven’t had much time to explore inland Croatia, so we’ll only mention the world-famous Plitvice Lakes and Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb.

Croatia’s capital attracts fewer tourists than the coastal towns, but it has so much to offer. It’s a shame so many tourists skip it. It might not have picturesque beaches, but it has stunning architecture, lots of historical monuments, and many attractions for history and culture lovers. You can also go on many day trips in the area to discover Slavonia county, one of the four historical regions of Croatia.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice National Park is probably the most famous Croatian national park, and it is definitely one of the most stunning places in Croatia. The natural beauty of the lakes and waterfalls, thick vegetation and mesmerizing hues of deep emerald green with hints of turquoise and blue is awe-inspiring. Try and visit this gorgeous national park during your 14 days in Croatia. 

Where to Sleep in Croatia

Depending on your preferences and means of transportation, you can choose in which cities to sleep in Croatia. Personally, for a 14-day itinerary, we would recommend staying at central locations along Dalmatia such as Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar and go on day trips from there. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options in any of these major cities. You can also add a couple of nights on one of the islands. In Istria, our favorite town was Rovinj. There are plenty of hotels and apartments to choose from in Rovinj and along the Istrian Coast. If you want to spend a couple of nights in inland Istria, you’ll be able to find many apartments, some B&B and only several hotels. We’ll discuss specific options later on our Croatia itinerary.

What to Eat During Your Two Weeks in Croatia

Croatian cuisine is inspired by fresh local products as well as the complex history and mixture of cultures throughout the years. The different regions in Croatia have their own culinary traditions that are intertwined with the history of the area. Depending on where you’ll go, you’ll encounter different cuisines with various cultural influences. Generally speaking, in the inland regions of Croatia, you’ll see more dishes and food inspired by Turkish, Hungarian and Slavic fare. Along the coastal regions, the dishes are more typical of Mediterranean cuisine. In Istria, however, the Italian influence is very prominent. These are some of the must-try dishes and drinks you should sample during your 14 days in Croatia.

Typical Dalmatian Food and Dishes

In Dalmatia try the grilled and cooked seafood, cured meats and local pastries and cheese. These were some of our favorite dishes during our 2 weeks in Croatia:

• Brudet – A fish casserole that is slow-cooked with onion, tomato, herbs, and wine.
• Shrimps Na Buzaru – Shrimps cooked in the local Bazura sauce made with olive oil, garlic, chopped tomato and wine.
• Octopus Salad – Our favorite appetizer in Croatia. Every time we ordered it, we had a slightly different variation
• Soparnik – The local pastry made from layers of thin dough and filled with Swiss chard, parsley and garlic. It’s believed that this dish was the prototype for the Italian pizza which the Romans brought to Rome.
• Pag Cheese – The most famous Croatian cheese, originally from Pag island.

Typical Istrian Food and Dishes

In Istria try the seafood, pasta and gnocchi, the local polenta, and anything with truffles. We ate so many truffle dishes and drank wine with (almost) every meal during our time in Istria. We especially loved the Istrian white wine made from Malvazija Istarska grapes.

• Truffle Pasta – No need for elaborations; anywhere you’ll go, you’ll be able to order a plate of homemade pasta with truffles.
• Istrian Frittata – A glorified omelet made with seasonal produce, such as asparagus, mushrooms, truffles, prosciutto or sausages.
• Istrian Polenta – It can be served as a porridge with a creamy texture or grilled and have a cake-like texture. We enjoyed both versions.

There are so many more dishes and local delicacies in Istria. Check out our Istria Food Guide to learn more.

Food and Dishes in Zagreb

The food in Zagreb is a bit different than in Dalmatia or Istria. Here you’ll find less seafood and more hearty casseroles and stews. Zagreb also offers comfort food in the form of savory or sweet pastries and unique coffee culture.

• Burek – First of all, you need to try the burek. Burek can be found in many places in Croatia, but in Zagreb, we tasted the best one. It is a baked pastry made of a thin and flaky dough that is filled with either meat or cheese.
• Štrukli (pronounced shtroo-klee ) – Second on your foodie itinerary should be this local delicacy. This crepe-like pancakes or blintzes can be sweet or savory, baked or cooked, and it’s the ultimate comfort food: warm, filling and satisfying. The ones we tried had a cottage filling and apple-cinnamon filling. 

There are many more typical stews, stuffed vegetables and additional typical food that can be found in inland Croatia, but the Burek and Štrukli were our favorites and are easy to find. For more typical food to try during your 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary, check this excellent food guide for Croatian cuisine

Croatian Wine and Rakija

The wine-producing tradition in Croatia started at least 2,500 years ago, and you’ll find many wine regions in Croatia. In fact, altogether there are more than 300 geographically-defined wine-producing areas in Croatia. The majority of Croatian wine is white, with about 30% of red wine (mainly along the coast) and some rosé and sparkling wines as well. So always have a glass of wine with your dinner. You can learn more about popular grape varieties and Croatian wine regions here . You can also check the Wine Section in our Istria Food Guide.

Rakija (pronounced Ra-ki-ya ) can be found all over Croatia. It’s a brandy that is made from fruits and herbs, and though we are not fans of brandy, we loved the Croatian Rakija. Every region in Croatia has its own unique rakija flavors so make sure to have a taste of the local rakija in each place you visit.

Ultimate 14-Day Croatia Itinerary (With or Without a Car)

This 14 days Croatia itinerary is based on the one we did, and so it includes some popular destinations with hidden gems and a few days in Istria. We started in Dubrovnik and Zagreb was our last destination on our itinerary. We rented a car in Split and started our little  Croatian road trip from there, but we’ll provide details if you like to follow this itinerary only with public transportation.

Croatia Itinerary Day by Day

Day 1-2 dubrovnik.

Dubrovnik was our starting point, and we quickly fell in love with this historic gem. The historic center is stunning but can get extremely crowded during the day especially between 10 am to 4 pm. In fact, our tip is to plan your schedule in such a way that you’d be outside the city center during noon hours.

Things to Do in Dubrovnik

• Explore the historic center – The old city of Dubrovnik is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wandering through the cobbled streets, you’ll find many stunning monuments. It is easy to imagine its rich history since the ancient buildings and beautiful architecture take you on a journey through time. Visit some of the most famous sites and structures such as the main gates to the old town, Pile Gate and Ploče Gate . Cross Stradun (Placa Street) which connects these two gates and is one of the busiest streets in Dubrovnik. Take a sip from Large Onofrio’s Fountain , a beautiful circular fountain that is decorated with carved faces from which the water flows. On the other end of Stradun you’ll also find Small Onofrio’s Fountain . Admire the beautiful Church of Saint Blaise and Orlando’s Column and visit the Dominican Monastery and Jesuit Staircase , both of which were the film locations for significant scenes in Game of Thrones . Just underneath Jesuit Staircase you’ll find the lovely Gunduliceva Poljana Market which operates in the mornings. 
• Take a Walk on the City Walls – One of the must-do attractions in Dubrovnik is climbing the old city’s walls. You’ll get a different perspective of the old town, with the orange-colored terracotta roofs and the backdrop of the glistening water of the Adriatic Sea. This is one of the most popular attractions, so try and come first thing in the morning or later during the day. We didn’t take a tour and booked our tickets online but if you want to deepen your knowledge, there are some highly recommended city walls tours . 
• If you are fans of Game of Thrones , you can take a guided tour to see all the filming locations and hear some local gossip and anecdotes about the show and crew. 
• Visit Lovrijenac Fortress – To get the perfect shot of Dubrovnik’s old town, you need to visit Lovrijenac Fortress. You’ll find many magnificent vantage points to take pictures from, outside and inside this fortress. On the way to the fort, don’t forget to visit the West Pier .
• Check Out Dubrovnik Old Port – Stroll around and see the old town walls from outside.  Go around F ort St. John and Porporela (the old pier), buy some ice cream, and watch the world goes by.
• Take the Cable Car to Mount Srd – Another fabulous viewpoint to capture Dubrovnik Old City is from the top of Mount Srd. You can take the cable car just outside the old town, take a cab/Uber or hike to the top if you wish.

Insider Tips for Dubrovnik

• Inside Dubrovnik Old Town you’ll find mainly apartments, the main hotels are located in the suburbs of Dubrovnik. Vehicles are forbidden to enter the old town, so take that into consideration as well, especially if you have a lot of luggage.
• The historic old town gets extremely crowded, especially when groups of cruise ships arrive. Therefore, for the most popular attractions, like climbing the walls, you’d better reserve a ticket in advance. Our advice is to visit it first thing in the morning or the late afternoon.
• To escape the crowds, take a kayak tour in midday, visit Lokrum Island, or enjoy one of the nearby beaches.

Day Trips from Dubrovnik

• Mljet Island – As mentioned before Mljet Island is perfect for sports and nature lovers with an added bonus of avoiding the crowds. It is a bit harder to make this trip independently since getting around the island is difficult without a car, and even if you’ve already rented a car, you’ll need to drive more than an hour to get to a ferry on which you can board with a vehicle. Therefore, either spend a night or two here or go on an organized day tour .
• Elaphite Islands – These three islands are located just off the coast of Dubrovnik, and it’s a fun way to escape the crowd and enjoy a peaceful day at sea. You can choose to go there independently with a ferry or take a cruise. There’s no doubt that with a cruise you’ll get to see more in one day. With this highly recommended tour , you’ll get to visit 3 islands and see some of the important historic monuments and beautiful beaches. 
• Kotor in Montenegro – Take a day trip to neighboring Montenegro and visit the beautiful Kotor which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is a real gem for culture and history lovers, but the trip will take you about 2 hours each way. During the season, there are a few public buses you can hop on (note the schedule so you won’t miss your bus back to Dubrovnik), but in the low season, you might be better off with a guided tour. An additional bonus is that many of the tours stop at a few more locations on the way such as Persat, Budva, and the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. This tour comes with excellent reviews and if you’re a group of four, you might want to consider this private tour . 

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is probably the most expensive destination in Croatia, especially the prices for the hotels in the area. You need to consider whether you’d like to stay inside the old town or not. There are very few hotels/B&Bs inside the old town and they are going to be expensive! Also, it’s a pedestrian-only zone and there are always a lot of stairs, so take that into consideration. If you are on a budget, choose one of the many apartments inside the old town. The old town can get very crowded at times so if you don’t mind walking or taking a bus, there are many nice options in the nearby Ploce, most of which are within walking distance from the old town. Another option is to stay at Lapad where there are nice beaches and many restaurants, it’s the perfect location for a family vacation. It will take you 10 minutes to get to the old town with public transportation. There are also some hotels within a pleasant 15-minute walk from the old town.  

Hotels inside the Old Town

Luxury: Boutique Hotel Stari Grad   |   The Pucic Palace   |  Prijeko Palace  |   Fresh* Sheets Kathedral Dubrovnik

Make sure to arrange for some help with your luggage in advance

Mid-Range/Budget:   Hostel Angelina Old Town   | Appartments in the Old Town

Hotels in Ploce (within a walking distance from the old town)

Luxury: Hotel Excelsior   |  Villa Glavić  

Mid-Range/Budget: Apartments in Ploce

Hotels in Lapad (by bus/car 5 minutes, walking distance of 15-20 minutes from the old town)

Luxury: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik   |  Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik

Hotels in Lapad (by bus/car 10-15 minutes from the old town)

Luxury: Hotel Dubrovnik Palace   |  Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik   |  Hotel Kompas

Mid-Range/Budget: Bova Luxury Rooms  |  Hostel Sol  |  Hostel EuroAdria

For all accommodation options in Lapad

Where to Eat in Dubrovnik

Some of our favorite restaurants include Lucin Kantun Dubrovnik , Konoba MOSKAR and Konoba Jezuite .

Check out our 2 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary for helpful tips and information to help you plan your trip!

Dubrovnik to Split/Hvar/Brac/ Korčula

Our next destination is either one of the islands such as Hvar, Korčula or Brac, or heading straight to Split. Getting to Split takes a long way and involves crossing a border if you do it by land since Dubrovnik and the surrounding area are an exclave of Croatia. Therefore, if you are planning on spending some time on one of the islands, you can take a ferry straight to the islands, spend as many nights as you’d like there, and then catch a ferry to Split. If you choose to head straight to Split, you’ll spend the morning hours of this day on the road (or sea) on your way to Split. You can get to Split by car, bus (which means crossing the border with Bosnia & Herzegovina) or ferry.

By Car – If you decide to rent a car, you can do your journey yourself in about 3.5-4 hours. Tolls may be applied. There are plans for building a faster highway. If you don’t want to drive yourself, you can also take a private driver .

By bus – Many buses connect the two cities. It rakes about 4-5 hours and it costs about € 15-18. You can check the schedule and prices here .

By Ferry – During the season, there are several ferries a day from Dubrovnik to Split. The journey takes about 4.5 hours. You can check the prices and schedule here . If you plan on staying on one of the islands, check out the ferries to Croatia islands .

Day 3-4 Hvar/Brac/ Korčula

If you’re planning on staying for 2 weeks in Croatia, you can easily spend a night or more on one of the islands. There are many islands to choose from and we’ve mentioned some of their attractions earlier. On all of these islands, you’ll find lovely beaches and great seafood restaurants but to help you choose your perfect island for your 14-day Croatia itinerary, here are some more things to do on each island.

Hvar Island

Many tourists flock to this famous Croatian island to visit the old towns, local villages and beautiful beaches. Hvar is perfect if you love a mixture of lively nightlife, historic towns and some hidden gems where you could escape the crowd (Hvar can get very busy during the season).

Things to See and Do on Hvar

• Explore the streets and historical monuments of Hvar Town and hang out at St Stephen’s Square , where the beautiful Hvar Cathedral is located.
• Take part in the party scene in Hvar Town.
• Discover the best beaches and bays around the Hvar island. 
• Explore Stari Grad , the second biggest town on Hvar. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, a beautiful promenade, charming alleys, historical monuments and old-time Mediterranean charm.
• Hvar is known for its red wine, so it’s the perfect place to go wine tasting .
• During the lavender season, June-July , you can visit the lavender fields on Hvar island. For a hustle-free day, check out this lavender tour .
• Learn about the local lacework from the nuns at Benedictine Convent . They have been using the local agave plant to create intricate artwork for years (recognized by UNESCO).
• Rent a boat or go on a tour to see the beautiful nearby Pakleni Islands . If you love sea kayaking, with this tour you’ll discover some of the hidden coves and beaches around Pakleni islands.

Where to Sleep on Hvar

If you love to be in the middle of all the action, then Hvar Town is a perfect choice but if you’d like a more relaxed atmosphere (and lower prices), you’d better stay in Stari Grad .

Korčula Island

Korčula is probably the second most popular island in the area. It’s smaller than Hvar but also offers a mixture of attractions.

Things to See and Do on Korčula

Explore Korčula’s old town which is referred to as “ Little Dubrovnik ”. The old walled city of Korčula sits on a similar-looking peninsula and has the same terracotta-roofed houses. Inside the town, you’ll find several ancient monuments such as St. Mark’s Cathedral , the old town’s walls and towers and what believed to be Marco Polo’s old house .

• Visit the lovely beaches on the island.
• Go cycling around the island.
• Enjoy the traditional Sword Dance – Korčula is known for its traditional sword dances, a cultural heritage from centuries ago. During the season you can watch the traditional sword dance, Moreska, in the old town twice a week, every Monday and Thursday. For more details about the Moreska sword dance .

Insider Tip – If you enjoy these kinds of cultural events, you should try and visit the island during the annual sword dance festival , which takes place in June.

Where to Stay on Korčula

You’ll find several hotels and many guest houses and apartments around Korčula Town. Check the prices here .

Brac Island

Less popular than Hvar and Korčula, Brac usually feels a bit more relaxed even in the summer months. However, the town of Bol has been drawing more and more visitors, thanks to the stunning Golden Horn beach.

Things to See and Do on Brac

• Walk along the triangle shore of the picture-perfect Golden Horn Beach ( Zlatni Rat ).
• Visit Skrip , the oldest settlement on the island where you’ll find the olive museum .
• Check out the views from the highest viewpoint on the island, Vidova Gora lookout , which is the perfect place to admire the beautiful scenery, including the Golden Horn Beach.
• Visit the Pučišća Stonemason School , one of the few schools around the world that teaches the art of manual stone crafting.
• Explore the best locations on Brac on board a 4WD jeep . Admire the views, taste the local food, learn about the daily life and visit the best beaches with this luxury tour . 

Where to Stay on Brac

You’ll find a few dozen hotels and many apartments on Brac. Check out the prices here .

Day 5-7 Split

Split is one of our favorite cities in Croatia. It’s the second-largest city in Croatia and the largest city on the Dalmatian Coast, and though at first glance, it doesn’t compare to the sheer awe-inspiring sight of Dubrovnik’s old town, it has such a special atmosphere and incredible foodie and night scenes, not to mention the unique Diocletian’s Palace. We would gladly come back here in a heartbeat. Thanks to Split’s convenient location, we suggest spending at least 3 nights in Split and go on day trips from here. You’ll have enough things to do even if you choose to stay here for a week.

Things to Do in Split

• Explore the old town and historical monuments of Diocletian’s Palace – Diocletian’s Palace is not really a palace, but a huge fortress, half of which was used for the personal use of the Roman emperor Diocletian and the other half was used to house his military. The remnants of Diocletian’s Palace were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the different sites such as the Emperor’s Peristil, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and its bell tower, the unique Vestibule , the Triclinium and the substructures of the Palace . And we haven’t started talking yet about the ancient four gates , the People’s Square , the Fruit Square and many more hidden gems, just waiting to be found in Split’s old town. If you want to deepen your knowledge about the history of Split and its old town, check out this very affordable walking tour .
• Get lost in the Old Town – We love getting lost in old towns, and Split was the perfect place to get lost in. We’ve found beautiful boutiques, great bars, unique shops, ice cream parlors, souvenir markets and more.
• Walk along Split Riva – Split promenade is a great place to catch the sea breeze and do some people watching. Don’t forget to take a picture of Split from the little fishermen pier (Matejuska).
• Have a snack and a drink at Belvedere – You’ll need to climb some stairs to get to the best viewpoint in Split, where you’ll find a lovely coffee shop with a beautiful terrace that overlooks the old city and the port. You can also take a taxi/Uber to get there but it will take you much longer.
• Explore the lively foodie scene and nightlife – We had the best meals in Split! There are so many great restaurants and bars in and around the old town, it was really hard to choose from. If you’re a foodie, you are going to enjoy your time here.
• Relax at one of Split’s Beaches or take a kayaking tour – During the summer months, you might need to cool off and jump into the water during the hottest hours of the day. If you are not the type to sit on a sunbed and you’d rather stay active, another option is to take one of the many sea kayaking tours in Split. With this tour you’ll enjoy a beautiful sunset at sea and with this tour you’ll explore Marjan Forest Park. 
• Explore Marjan Hill – If you have more time and you like treasure hunting and hiking, you should explore the nooks and crannies of Marjan Hill. You can do it by yourself, with a kayak or with this cycling tour . 
• If you’re fans of Game Of Throne , you can a take a GOT tour to learn about the filming locations around Split. 

Day Trips from Split

If you have more time in Split, you can go on day trips in the area. There are many day trips to choose from. Some can be easily done with public transportation while for others, it might be better to go with an organized tour or with a car of your own.

• Visit the Blue Cave – There are a few islands that are located quite close to Split and at the furthest one, you’ll find one of the natural wonders of Croatia, the Blue Cave. Since it will take you a long time to get to Biševo Island, we suggest taking a tour that will also take you to some of the most beautiful places around the nearby islands, so at least you’ll get to see beautiful scenery along the way. You should know that swimming isn’t allowed in the Blue Cave and that each boat can only stay there 10-20 minutes. With this tour , you’ll also get to visit Hvar Town and visit some locations on Vis.
• Island Hopping Tour – If you are not planning to stay on one of the islands, and you’re not into the Blue Cave, this is the perfect day trip for you. You can take an organized tour or just hop on a ferry or a fast catamaran and do it by yourself. The closest islands are Hvar, Brac and Solta. It will take you about 1 hour to get to Solta or Brac and 2 hours to Hvar. On the islands, the buses are timed to coincide with the ferries’ schedule. You can also rent a scooter or a car if you prefer. With this highly recommended tour you’ll hop on a catamaran and get to explore the bays of Brac, Šolta and Pakleni Islands and visit Hvar Town with a guided tour. The tour includes, snacks, a light lunch and unlimited beverages.  
• Chase Waterfalls in Krka – You can’t visit Croatia without visiting one of the stunning national parks. If you’re heading to Zagreb, you can stop at Plitvice on your way or take a day tour from Zagreb or Zadar since it’s closer. From Split, it will take you 2.5 hours by car to get to Plitvice and much longer with a bus. However, it takes only an hour to get to Krka with a bus. Therefore, we suggest visiting Krka from Spit. There are day tours, but you can easily do it yourself with a car or with public transportation . 
• Visit Trogir – Trogir is located only 30 km away from Split. It will take you about 30 minutes to get there by bus. It’s an effortless half-day trip from Split that can be done by public transportation or with a guided tour. With this excellent tour you’ll get to explore Trogir and snorkel at the clear crustal water of the nearby islands. 
• Visit Omiš – Omiš is located about 25 km southeast of Split. Other than the charming cobbled streets and historic sites and monuments, you’ll find in Omiš lots of activities for adrenaline junkies from paragliding and diving to canyoning, zip-lining, rafting and more. For more information, check out Omiš website .
• Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina – Since Mostar is located halfway between Dubrovnik and Split, you can easily go on a day tour from Split , if you didn’t have enough time in Dubrovnik to do it.
• Explore the island of Brac with a 4 WD jeep and discover the olive groves, ancient monuments, stunning views and beaches around Brac. 
• Dubrovnik – Usually we don’t recommend taking day tours that involve spending more than 2 hours on a bus. However, if you chose to skip Dubrovnik, and you would still like to visit it, you can go on this highly-rated full day tour to discover the old town of Dubrovnik. 

Where to Eat in Split

Some of our favorite restaurants were Maka Maka , Fig and Bokeria Kitchen & Wine but we have more recommendations in our Split Travel Guide

Where to Sleep in Split

The perfect location is somewhere close enough to the Old Town and the port, in case you’d like to go on a day trip. Of course, if you don’t mind the commotion and the fact the Old Town is a car-free zone , you can also stay in the middle of the Old Town. We stayed at a lovely apartment hotel, Mediterra Residence, located in the north part of Bačvice neighborhood about 5-10 minutes by foot from the Old Town. Another option we would recommend is staying at Varoš Neighborhood . The best options in our opinion are:

Hotels in the Old Town

Luxury: Murum Heritage Hotel  

Mid-Range: HOTEL Diocletian Palace Experience – adults only |  Hotel Vestibul Palace & Villa 

Hotels in North Bačvice

Mid-Range: Mediterra Residence Apartment Hotel

Hotels/Hostels in Varoš

Luxury:   Heritage Palace Varoš

Budget: Ćiri Biri Bela Boutique Hostel 

Day 8 Zadar

Initially, we decided to make this leg of the trip with a rental car and drive from Split to Zadar (with a stop in Šibenik and a possible visit to Pag Island), and from there continue to Istria. Unfortunately, due to unexpected circumstances, we had to shorten our trip, so we drove from Split straight to Rovinj and skipped this part. If you only have 12 days, this would be an excellent way to shorten your schedule as well. However, if you have the time, we’ve heard great things about Zadar and Pag Island, so we’d make an effort to include them in your Croatia itinerary. To get to Zadar you can hop on a direct bus ( 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions, cost: € 12).

Things to Do in Zadar

• Listen to the Sea Organ at Zadar’s Riva – Probably the most famous attraction in Zadar, the Sea Organ won the European Prize for Urban Public Space in 2006. Croatian architect Nikola Bašić conceived this unique project that cleverly forms a connection between nature and the urban landscape. With the help of others, he used very clever engineering to build a series of broad steps leading down into the water in such a way that the waves produce chime-like notes that are heard along Zadar’s Riva. Read more about Zadar’s unique Sea Organ .
• Admire the  Greeting to the Sun – Just next to the Sea Organ, you’ll find another urban project conceived by the same Croatian architect, Nikola Bašić. This project aims to create symbolic communication between light and urban design. The Greeting to the Sun consists of a 22-meter diameter circle, which is made from multi-layered glass plates, underneath there are photo-voltage solar modules. As the sun sets, this artistic installment lights up in an intricate light show, while people are dancing across it.  You can read more about this super cool project here .
• Explore the old town and historical monuments and churches of Zadar – A partial list include the Cathedral of St. Anastasia and its bell tower, the Church of St.Donat , a round pre-Romanesque church which is one of the symbols of Zadar. St. Mary’s Church, Monastery of St. Francis Assisi, the city walls and the gates , especially the impressive Land Gate just near Fosa port. Just like in other places in Croatia (such as Rovinj) you can tell the Venetians were here by the famous winged lion.

Day Trips from Zadar

If you have more time, you can choose a couple of these recommended day trips from Zadar.

• Krka or Plitvice National Parks – If you haven’t visited Krka yet, it is situated about halfway between Split to Zadar so you can do the tour from here. If you’re keen on visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park, it’s much more doable from Zadar. The drive takes only 1.5 with a car and about 2 hours with a direct bus. Many guided tours visit both Krka and Plitvice .
• Šibenik – If you don’t have your own car, you probably didn’t stop on your way from Split to Zadar in Šibenik. If you’d like to visit the beautiful historic center of Šibenik, with a public bus you’ll be there in 1.5 hours and it only costs € 6.
• Pag Island – We were sorry we missed the opportunity to visit Pag Island. We always look for hidden gems, and this seems like a place we’d love to explore. We were interested in learning more about the unique Pag lacework and visit the Pag cheese factory, but there are also lovely beaches and other attractions you can read about on Pag Island’s website . You can take your rental car or get a direct bus to Pag Town (about one hour, cost: € 7). Take note of the last return bus from Pag to Zadar.
• Stay active during your Croatian vacation and go explore the nearby islands and rivers with a kayaking tour or a cycling tour . Below we’ve collected some of the most highly-rated tours:

Where to Stay in Zadar

For a short stay in Zadar, we’ d recommend staying at the Old City so you’ll be close to all of the main attractions. Unlike in Dubrovnik, there are many great options in Zadar and the luxury options are quite reasonable.

Luxury/Mid-Range Hotels in Zadar Old Town

Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel   |  Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel   |  Art Hotel Kalelarga   |  Bastion Heritage Hotel 

Budget Accommodation in Zadar Old Town

  Boutique Hostel Forum   |  Downtown Boutique Hostel   | Unique Luxury Rooms   |  Tinel B&B Premium Edition  

For all accommodation options in Zadar  

Day 9-12 Istrian Peninsula

The heart-shaped Istrian peninsula is one of the most charming places in Croatia, and while we were planning our Croatia itinerary, we knew we’d like to spend a few days exploring this hidden gem. The Istrian peninsula is situated in the westernmost part of Croatia. It has remained under the radar for many years, but lately, more and more tourists have been visiting this charming county. Getting there without a car can be quite challenging, but in our opinion, it is totally worth the effort.

Getting from Zadar to Istria:

By car: 4.5 hours (highway and toll roads)

By bus: 8-9 hours, cost: € 30. Check the bus schedule here . 

By plane: There aren’t many direct flights from Zadar to Pula but if you book your flight in advance you can get a good deal. 

By ferry: 1-3 times a week (depending on the season). You can also catch a catamaran from Zadar to Pula (6 hours  for € 20-25)

Things to Do in Istria

From the moment we first got here, we fell in love with the beautiful scenery, stunning medieval towns and fishing villages, food scene and the unique atmosphere. Generally speaking, Istria can be divided into two regions, Blue Istria which includes the coastal towns and beaches and Green Istria which refers to the inner parts of the peninsula. We suggest spending two nights in Rovinj and two nights near Motovun, unless you are a beach person so maybe you’d rather spent another night near the coast. We’ve written a whole post dedicated to our itinerary in Istria so we won’t detail everything here again but in short, our suggested itinerary includes:

Spending the first two nights in Rovinj and going on day trips to visit Pula and Cape Kamenjak in the south of the peninsula or going up the coast and visiting Lim Fjord, Poreč and Novigrad (you can do both if you have extra time).

Then, stay at one of the hotels or apartments in or near Motovun and explore the inner parts of the peninsula. Some of the most picturesque villages are Motovun, Grožnjan, Buje and Oprtalj . All of these villages have charming cobbled streets and breathtaking views and they are surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and forests filled with truffles. You should definitely include olive oil and wine tasting in your itinerary and truffle hunting during the season.

If you can’t have enough of the beautiful blue and turquoise hues of the Adriatic Sea, instead of spending two nights inland, you can spend four nights in Rovinj and go on day trips to explore the coast and inner parts of Istria. Another option for beach lovers is to spend two nights in Rovinj and two nights around Labin and Rabac area on the southern coast of the peninsula. This area has excellent beaches and Labin is a charming town.

Getting around Istria

You can get to the main cities along the Istrian Coast with a public bus or a ferry without a problem. It’s harder to see the inner parts of the peninsula without a car but reaching the coastal towns with public transportation is fairly easy and from there, you can book a guided tour to visit some of the charming villages inland. We’ve included all the information you need including tips in our post about day trips from Rovinj.

For more information about the Istrian peninsula, check out our Ultimate Istria Itinerary and Rovinj Day Trips posts

Day 13 -14 Plitvice National Park and Zagreb

Our 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary includes a little taste of the different counties of Croatia. Each region we visited felt a little bit different and had its own cultural influences and unique atmosphere. When we visited the places in inland Croatia, it felt much less Mediterranean and much more central European. From the views and architecture to the food and attitude, it felt like we’ve crossed an invisible border. Our first stop was the stunning natural beauty of Plitvice Lakes. You can either stay here for the night or visit the park and continue straight to Zagreb afterward.

Getting to Plitvice from Istria:  

By car : 3-3.5 hours 

By bus: There’s no direct bus from Rovinj or Pula to Plitvice Lakes, if we’d had to take a bus, we would have taken a direct bus to Zagreb

 and the next day go on a day trip from there. You can check the possible routes here .

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Nature lovers must include Plitvice National Park in their Croatia itinerary, but even if you’re more of a city person, don’t skip one of the most beautiful places in Croatia. Plitvice is the oldest and largest national park in Croatia, and today the park covers an area of almost 300 square km. The famous lakes and waterfalls constitute only 1% of the park’s total area. There are 16 main lakes (and several smaller ones) which are connected to each other with a series of waterfalls. There are two main entrances to the park and several routes you can choose from. Plitvice National Park is included in UNESCO World Heritage List and it’s a very popular tourist attraction in Croatia.

Tips for Visiting Plitvice Lakes:

• You should try and buy your ticket in advance . There is a limited number of tickets that are sold on the spot if there’s availability, but during the high season, it is better to purchase your tickets in advance. Reserve your tickets here .
• The visitor rules to the park keep changing, so check the official website before you go.
• There are two main entrances to the park, Entrance 1 , which is closer to the lower lakes and Entrance 2 which is located at the upper lakes. When buying your ticket, you would have to choose your preferred entrance to the park (look at the suggested routes inside the park before choosing your entrance). You won’t be able to get in through any other entrance.
• There are several routes you can choose from, ranging from 2-3 hours to a whole day. Entrance 2 and some of the routes are usually closed during the winter months. You can check the routes and their conditions here .
• There are high chances it is going to rain. If you have an umbrella/raincoat , bring them with you, if not, you can buy some at the souvenir shop and don’t forget to bring good shoes.
• Save your ticket because you’ll need it to use the inner bus system and the boats which cross the lakes.
• Since this is a very popular attraction, guided tours arrive in the middle of the morning from the Dalmatian Coast and Zagreb. Therefore, we suggest getting an early start or choose to visit in the afternoon. We bought a 2-day ticket and arrived later in the day and the paths weren’t too busy. The next day, we started at 7 am (there was a line to validate tickets that we got to skip since ours had already been validated). We had a fabulous time until 10 or 11 am and then it got very crowded. The opening hours vary throughout the year, so make sure to check them on the website .
• You can either drive to Plitvice with your car, take public transportation or head straight to Zagreb and visit Plitvice on a guided tour.
• If you want to spend a night here, buy the 2-day ticket .
• If you have more time, you can stop at the charming village of Rastoke , walk along the river and admire the picturesque waterfalls and mills.

Zagreb is such a great destination for culture and history lovers, and fans of urban planning will admire its newer parts. The old parts of Zagreb (referred to as the upper town) include Gradec and Kaptol and there you’ll find some of the most famous landmarks in Zagreb. Strolling through these ancient alleys of Zagreb’s upper town feels like taking a stroll through time. The newer part, or lower town, is an example of great urban planning and is made up of a series of man-made parks and beautiful buildings. 

Getting to Zagreb from Plitvice:   By car/bus : 2-2.5 hours (bus tickets cost: € 10)

Things to Do in Zagreb

• Explore the Upper Town – Take a guided walking tour of the upper town to see some of the stunning historical monuments and learn about the history of Zagreb. You can either take a free guided tour or use our self-guided walking tour of Zagreb . 
• Admire the famous landmarks: Check out some of the most beautiful landmarks such as Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, St. Mark’s Church and many more.
• Visit Dolac Market – Go shopping at Dolac Market where you’ll also find unique street art.
• Eat Štrukli at La Štruk .
• See the painting of the Virgin Mary at the Stone Gate – The Stone Gate is one of the most special places in Zagreb. How often do you see a chapel in the middle of a passage where pedestrians cross the gate just near praying believers?
• Look for the best viewpoints – Check out the views of Zagreb from Gradec Plateau and Strossmayer Promenade.
• Visit Lotrščak Tower – On top of its historical importance, if you visit Lotrščak Tower at noon, you’ll get to see (and hear) the canon that is fired from its upper deck, every day at noon.
• Ride Zagreb funicular – After all, it’s the shortest funicular in the world.
• Visit the Grič Tunnel
• Learn about Zagreb’s coffee culture .
• Check out the bars at Tkalčićeva Street .
• Walk along Lenuci Horseshoe (Zagreb Green Horseshoe) – Discover the beautiful parks and the stunning buildings around Zagreb Green Horseshoe and visit the Botanical Gardens
• Take a unique tour of Zagreb to learn more about its history and culinary traditions. These are so me of the best tours in Zagreb:

Day Trips from Zagreb

• Plitvice Lakes & Rastoke – If you haven’t seen Plitvice, you should take a day trip to visit the lakes and waterfalls of Croatia’s largest national park. You can take public transportation if you want to save some money and not be restricted by a tour. You should choose a very early bus if you’d like a less crowded visit. Driving time is 2-2.5 hours and the bus ticket costs € 11. If you want a hustle-free day and learn more about the flora and fauna of the park, this highly rated tour also stops at the charming village of Rastoke.
• Ljubljana and Lake Bled Tour – Slovenia’s capital has a charming historic center and lots of charm. This highly recommended Ljubljana tour includes a guided tour of the historic center that will show you the highlights of the old city and provide historical and cultural references. Afterward, you will continue to the magical Lake Bled, where you’ll admire the views from Bled Castle and explore the lake on a traditional Pletna boat. If you wish, you can also take the bus or train to Ljubljana by yourself, but then we’d skip Lake Bled since it’s located an hour away from the city. The ride to Ljubljana should take you about 2-2.5 hours  and costs €11. Check your option for public transportation .

Where to Eat in Zagreb

You must eat Štrukli at La Štruk and grab some Burek from any local pastry shop. Our favorite restaurant in Zagreb was Haustor Haus and we had a great breakfast at Eggspress . We have more recommendations in our Zagreb travel guide.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

You’ll find many accommodation options in Zagreb. We stayed at an apartment very close to the city center and loved the location. We chose some of the best options in the city center. 

Luxury : Esplanade Zagreb Hotel   |  Hotel Jägerhorn   |  Hotel Dubrovnik   |  Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre 

 Mid-Range: Hotel Park 45  

Budget: Boutique Hostel Shappy   | Swanky Mint Hostel  |  The Dots Hostel   |   Zagreb Sleep & Eat   |   Art apartments-Flower Sq.

For all accommodation options in Zagreb

What to See if you Have More/Less Time than 2 Weeks?

7-10 days in croatia itinerary.

Not everyone has two weeks for their Croatian trip, so if you are looking for a 7-10 day Croatia itinerary, here are some suggested itineraries according to your interests:

• Foodies and history lovers – Visit Istria, Split & Zadar or one of the islands. This is the perfect combination if you’d like to have a taste of some of the most famous historical monuments and experience the best foodie scene. Istria is ideal for wine and truffle lovers and our favorite restaurants in Croatia are located in Rovinj and Split. You’ll also have your selection of great beaches in Dalmatia and Istria. If you’re keen on seeing Dubrovnik, you can take this one day tour from Split.
• Beach and History Lovers -Visit Dubrovnik, Split & the islands. We would combine the Dalmatian Coast and the islands. You’ll get a mixture of historical monuments and your selection of some of the best beaches in Croatia. You’d rather spend your time island hopping than driving or catching a flight all the way to Istria.
• Nature Lovers – Dalmatia, the islands & inland Croatia OR Mljet, Dalmatia & inland Croatia  – Some of the best national parks are located in the center of Croatia. You can stay around Dalmatia and spend a night or two on the islands and go on day trips to the explore inland Dalmatia and Plitvice National Park. You can even spend a night around Plitvice. Another option is to stay a few nights in Mljet, explore the island and visit Dubrovnik from there and then move on to Dalmatia and spent a few nights on one of the islands or Split.
• Game of Thrones Fans – Dubrovnik & Split – You can find many GOT locations in and around Dubrovnik & Split and you can go on many day trips from Split.
• Fans of Hidden Gems – Istria & Zagreb . These are some of the least touristy areas of Croatia. You’ll get to visit less crowded beaches and secluded villages in Istria and explore the beautiful capital city of Croatia. We would also recommend reading about northern Croatia and Slavonia county since there are many hidden gems there as well.  

Suggested Croatia Itinerary for 3 Weeks

Lucky you! In three weeks, you’ll get to explore our suggested itinerary and do it at a leisurely pace. We’ve listed many possible day trips and stops throughout our itinerary. If you love beaches, choose at least one more island to stay at. Another option is to explore a lesser-known county such as Slavonia or instead of going on a day trip to Ljubljana, spend a few nights there and explore the nearby area without a rush.

For More Information and Tips for your 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary

• Best 2 Days Itinerary to Discover Dubrovnik
• How to Plan the Perfect Split Itinerary and Why It Should Be on Your Croatia Bucket List
• Zagreb’s Self Guided Walking Tour
• Things to Do in Rovinj, Istria
• Best Day Trips from Rovinj to the South, East and North of Istria
• Olive Oil Tasting in Istria
• The Ultimate Istria Itinerary
• Tasting Istria – A Foodies Guide

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12 thoughts on “2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary – 14 Days to Visit the Most Beautiful Places in Croatia”

Croatia is so high on my list this will come in super useful thanks!

Our pleasure Kariss! You should definitely try and visit it ASAP 🙂

I LOVE Croatia! I’ve only been to Dubrovnik but definitely need to get back and explore more. Saving this itinerary for my next visit. Thank you!

Dubrovnik is stunning but there are so many more beautiful places to visit in Croatia! Glad we could help!

There’s definitly so much to do in Crotia, even two weeks doesn’t seem enough. It’s certainly on my list of places to visit soon! xo

We tried to build our Croatia itinerary so you can extend it if you wish. Yes, Croatia is full of wonders and in 2 weeks in Croatia, you can’t see everything!

This guide is FANTASTIC! I really appreciate how impressively comprehensive and helpful it was. Not only that, but your photos made me want to book my flight straightaway. Well done!

Thank you so much Gwen! So glad you like it! We really tried writing a Croatia travel guide we’d be happy to follow that provides loads of information to help you plan your own perfect Croatia itinerary 🙂

This would be such an incredible trip! I’ve been to Split, Hvar, Istria and Zagreb, but still need to see Dubrovnik and the lakes!! Croatia is such a beautiful country, planning to get there with croatia yacht charter. Thanks for sharing your tips!

Thanks Veronica, you are going to have a blast! Croatia is wonderful, enjoy your trip!

Thank you so much for sharing this. I want to ask you about Lošinj island. Is it a good place to go with kids? We prefer calm rest in less crowded places but not to be completely remote from the civilization 🙂

Hey Robert, glad you like this article. We actually haven’t been to Lošinj island ourselves so it’s hard for us to give you advice regarding that specific place. Croatia has some wonderful hidden gems if you want to avoid the crowd so I am sure you won’t have a problem finding such a place. Have fun!

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Cost of a Trip to Croatia & the Cheapest Time to Visit Croatia

The average price of a 7-day trip to Croatia is $1,602 for a solo traveler, $2,737 for a couple, and $1,564 for a family of 4 . Croatia hotels range from $44 to $199 per night with an average of $78, while most vacation rentals will cost $160 to $390 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Croatia (from all airports) are between $972 and $1,414 per person for economy flights and $3,052 to $4,440 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $35 to $71 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit Croatia

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to Croatia and stay in a Croatia hotel:

• January 1st to April 1st
• May 7th to May 20th
• October 1st to December 9th

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in Croatia is usually late March .

Average Croatia Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit Croatia for a week is $1,073-$2,278 ($153-$325 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $35 to $71 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $498 to $1,277 for economy

Lodging : $55 to $72 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $69 to $84 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit Croatia for a week is $1,816-$4,044 ($259-$578 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $70 to $141 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $996 to $2,553 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit Croatia for a week is $3,589-$7,938 ($513-$1,134 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $139 to $282 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,992 to $5,106 for economy

Lodging : $111 to $143 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $104 to $126 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to Croatia

How cheap can you make a vacation to Croatia? The cheapest trip to Croatia is about $121 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $16 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $38.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit Croatia for a week is $845-$1,924 ($121-$275 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $17 to $35 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $38 to $44 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $38 to $67 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit Croatia for a week is $1,469-$3,438 ($210-$491 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $35 to $69 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit Croatia for a week is $2,817-$6,678 ($402-$954 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $69 to $138 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $75 to $89 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $57 to $101 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very possible to travel to Croatia cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury Croatia Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in Croatia.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit Croatia for a week is $2,321-$8,801 ($332-$1,257 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $69 to $141 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,244 to $3,188 for first class

Lodging : $99 to $199 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $389 to $771 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit Croatia for a week is $4,049-$12,976 ($578-$1,854 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $138 to $282 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,489 to $6,376 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit Croatia for a week is $8,096-$23,642 ($1,157-$3,377 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $275 to $564 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,977 to $12,752 for first class

Lodging : $199 to $399 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $584 to $1,157 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Croatia Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in Croatia is slightly lower than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in Croatia due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

Croatia Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on Croatia hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in Croatia.

Flight Costs to Croatia

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $1,414 average in mid December to a low of $972 in late March. Median flight price is $1,135. These prices are based on millions of flights. For Croatia our data includes thousands of originating airports, and hundreds of airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In Croatia, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $442, so you can easily save about 45% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around Croatia can easily cost $260 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $17 per person. Private tours can cost $519 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other Croatia Guides

Travel costs nearby.

• Skradin, Croatia
• Starigrad, Croatia
• Pirovac, Croatia
• Biograd na Moru, Croatia
• Adelaide, SA, AU
• North Adelaide, SA, AU
• Footscray, VC, AU
• Port Pirie, SA, AU
• Zemunik Donji, Croatia
• Braybrook, VC, AU

Travel Costs in Popular Places

• Malacca, Malaysia
• Chiang Rai, Thailand
• Moscow, Russia

How to: Croatia for first time visitors

You probably keep seeing Croatia mentioned in the travel press all the time . You’ve probably heard your friends and family talk about what an excellent time they’ve had in Croatia – how “stunning” it was. (It is!) And you may well have glimpsed parts of Croatia on TV or film – whether the country was “playing” itself or another destination (which in turn, could have been a real destination – such as the island of Vis playing a Greek island in Mamma Mia 2 – or a fake location, such as Dubrovnik playing King’s Landing in Game of Thrones). So now, it’s surely your time – you need to pay a visit to the country. But how? It’s easy, don’t worry! Follow this guide to Croatia for first-time visitors!

Croatia for first-time visitors: the kind of holiday to go for

Unless you’re a particularly adventurous and highly experienced traveller – in which case you’ve probably been to Croatia before, let’s face it – let’s make things easy for you. I would recommend one destination as a base for your stay. In the case of almost all of the most popular destinations in Croatia , you will be able to use that place to enjoy yourself with sights, restaurants, bars, cafes, a little shopping, beaches and activities and be able to make day trips to other places of interest.

This kind of holiday to Croatia for first-time visitors is a great introduction to the country!

Croatia for first-time visitors: how long to visit for

Yes, of course – Croatia’s a pretty small country as far as countries go but it’s not that tiny. There’s no way you can cover most of the country’s main sights, experiences, towns, cities and islands even if you had a month to hand.

I would therefore suggest that you either opt for a week-long stay, or – if you can’t quite stretch to that – a long weekend break.

A week-long stay would allow you enough time to mix up your holiday with some days relaxing by a pool or on the beach, taking gentle strolls into town for a delicious evening meal, and some days devoted to day trips by boat to local islands.

A long weekend break (or any kind of break that lasts a few days) would also give you a decent amount of time to explore one city in Croatia, with some local trips within that general region.

• More info: take a look at Visit Croatia’s itineraries and ideas for one week in Croatia and a city break in Croatia . Perhaps you will be inspired to add more travel during your holiday!

Croatia for first-time visitors: where to go

Okay, now the big one, Where should you go? Oof! How do I answer this…?

For a one-week stay

Let me just throw some names out there!

Dubrovnik – an absolute gem of a place, it is no surprise that this is one of the most popular places in Croatia for holidaymakers. With a hugely impressive Old Town that is so well-preserved, and plenty of other sights, there’s absolutely no way you will be bored. Dubrovnik also has a wealth of accommodation options – from budget-friendly to absolute luxury – as well as being chock-full of restaurants, cafes, bars and more.

Split and nearby – I wouldn’t necessarily choose the city of Split itself for a week-long stay, but instead flying into Split and then transferring to somewhere close by. Consider holidaying in somewhere such as Trogir or Ciovo , the Makarska Riviera , the island of Brac or Hvar or the Sibenik region.

Zadar – Zadar is a very charming town that offers much for travellers. It benefits from having a number of excellent accommodation options on its outskirts, as well as some great day trip opportunities; the Kornati Islands National Park and the islands of Dugi Otok and Ugljan , and even the world-famous Plitvice Lakes .

Istria – oh, beautiful, beautiful Istria with its excellent food and wine, stunning coastal towns and exceedingly pretty countryside. If there’s something negative about Istria, I haven’t found it yet. Fly into Pula and stay there for top Roman sights, or transfer to the lovely Rovinj or very popular Porec . There are lots of family-friendly attractions in Istria too!

• More info: I’ve linked to our pages on the above-mentioned destinations in the text above – take some time out of your day and give the information a read!

For a long weekend break

If you’re certain you want to head to the coast, Dubrovnik or Split would be the simplest to get to whilst offering plenty of things for you to see and do. I would also highly recommend Pula if you can reach this charming town easily.

Otherwise, please consider Zagreb ! No, it doesn’t have the Adriatic Sea, but there is SO MUCH to enjoy in this city. Maybe consider it for a winter break – timed to coincide with its world-famous Advent in Zagreb celebration?

• More info: Take a look at our guides to Two Days in Dubrovnik , Two Days in Split , Two Days in Pula and Two Days in Zagreb to give you some ideas on what to do

Croatia for first-time visitors: how to book your holiday

Undeniably, booking a package deal or via a travel agent would really simplify your holiday booking plans. Leave someone else to do all the hard work of figuring out accommodation, flights and transfers! I totally understand, I often do the same! (But not, normally, for Croatia as you may understand.)

Take a look at our Best package holidays to Croatia post for some ideas of (UK-based) companies to help you plan a holiday.

Do also look at our Tour Operators for Croatia for UK-based companies, and American Tour Operators for Croatia for…well, it’s obvious!

No thanks – I want a more detailed itinerary!

Okay, okay – I hear you! Perhaps you’re a first-time visitor travelling from a fair way away and want to make the most of your time in the country, seeing as much as possible. That makes sense, I get it!

My best advice to you would be to opt for a “one-way” itinerary, flying into one place and out of another.

Consider something like this:

Fly into Zagreb – Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes – Zadar – Split – day trips to Hvar and/or Brac – Dubrovnik – day trips to Mljet and Elafiti Islands – fly out of Dubrovnik

Or what about:

Fly into Dubrovnik – Dubrovnik – day trips to Peljesac Peninsula (for wine and oysters) and Korcula – Split – day trip to Krka National Park – Zadar – Opatija – Pula – day trips to Brijuni islands and Rovinj – fly out of Pula (or hop over to Italy)

Really, if you’re looking for advice on a more detailed itinerary, take a look at our full-to-the-brim Itineraries for Croatia section where there is advice on actual routes to take, how to travel, when and where to go and plenty more to help and inspire you.

I’ve mentioned day trips multiple times in this post and for good reason. There is so much choice from so many destinations. You’ll certainly encounter many boat trips to islands and along the coast, but there are also opportunities to go to national and nature parks , wineries , gastro spots and more. You might even be able to pop over the border to Montenegro or Bosnia and Hercegovina , depending on where in Croatia you will be.

Take a look at some of the most popular day trips in Croatia for inspiration.

Final advice

Remember – the beauty about going to Croatia for the first time is…you will fall in love, and then need to go back!

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