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Castles, cities, coastlines and more: the 16 best places to visit in Croatia for 2024

Mar 2, 2024 • 8 min read

Jump into the best of Croatia with our list of top spots to visit © paulprescott72 / Getty Images

With 2500 miles of coastline and close to 1200 islands, Croatia 's sun-drenched credentials are impressive.

And that’s before you add its troves of Roman and Venetian-era architecture, UNESCO sites of both cultural and natural heritage, and gorgeous nature parks, mountain ranges, lakes and rivers. There’s such a diversity of landscapes and cultural attractions that a single visit can’t possibly cover them all.

Yet since you have to start somewhere, here’s our rundown of the very best places to visit in Croatia.

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

A turquoise ribbon of lakes linked by gushing waterfalls in the forested heart of continental Croatia, UNESCO-listed Plitvice Lakes National Park  is an awe-inspiring sight.

The park is comprised of 16 interconnected lakes, the 2.35km-long (1.5 miles) Kozjak being the largest, plus dozens of smaller ones – some just reed-fringed ponds. Travertine expanses covered with mossy plants divide the bodies of water, whose startling colors are a product of the underlying bedrock. Wooden boardwalks allow you to easily traverse this extraordinary watery world.

Planning tip: Entry tickets are limited to avoid overcrowding. Be sure to book online in advance .

2. Korčula Town

The sweet little seaside town of Korčula has a set of imposing walls and towers, as well as an extraordinary cathedral, adorned with a downright kooky set of carvings. You can walk every one of the streets of its compact old town, laid out in a fascinating fishbone pattern, in less than an hour. This leaves plenty of time for an alfresco meal under the umbrella pines at one of the restaurants lining the sea-facing Petra Kanavelića promenade.

Planning tip: Korčula Town is an easy day trip from Dubrovnik by ferry.

3. Hvar Town

Summer is when yachts anchor at this tiny seaside party town  and sun-dazed revelers descend in droves to the beachside cocktail bars.

For a step back from the action and superb views over the town, head up to Fortica , the medieval castle looming on a hill above the town. To find a swimming spot, follow the waterfront promenade and stake out one of the tiny rocky bays, or hop on a taxi boat to the nearby Pakleni Islands .

Cloaked in dense pine forests, marvelous Mljet is an island idyll. Legend has it that Odysseus was marooned here for seven years, and it’s easy to appreciate why he took his time leaving. The entire western section of Mljet is a national park , where you’ll find two sublime cobalt-colored lakes, an island monastery and the sleepy, unbelievably pretty little port of Pomena. Don’t neglect eastern Mljet, home to some tranquil little bays and brilliant beaches.

Istria delights with its undulating hills, charming hilltop towns and many seaside spots. A must-visit is lovely Rovinj , a town of pastel-hued facades and cobblestone lanes lined with art galleries, sitting on its own peninsula jutting into the Adriatic Sea.

Next, move inland to Motovun , a picturesque hilltop town rising from a forested valley. Park at its base and hop on the shuttle bus, or simply walk steadily uphill to its medieval walls for vistas of rolling hills. On Istria’s southernmost tip lies Cape Kamenjak , an undeveloped nature reserve fringed by a string of pebble bays and secluded rocky beaches.

Planning tip: Find accommodation in central Istria – from where it’s easy to get anywhere on the peninsula.

6. Vis Island

One of Croatia’s more remote islands, Vis  was best known as the site of a former Yugoslavian military base...before Mamma Mia! 2 put it on everyone’s list.

The port of Vis, neighboring Kut, and Komiža at the western end are the island's major towns, made up of lovely stone townhouses and seaside promenades. The hidden bays and rocky coves of its southern coast are best explored by boat, especially postcard-perfect Stiniva Bay , otherwise reached via a steep, rocky path.

Split 's sea-facing Diocletian’s Palace is a surprising maze of streets and lanes, a mini 4th-century Roman city chock-full of cafes, shops and restaurants. Pause in the domed Vestibule to listen to professional Klapa singers demonstrating their traditional a cappella style, then hike along the forested paths of Marjan Hill to the lookout for a sweeping panorama of the city and seascapes.

Planning tip: Split’s harbor is the launching pad for the islands of Brač, Hvar, Vis, Šolta and Korčula.

8. Kopački Rit Nature Park

Kopački Rit Nature Park  sits on the floodplain of the Danube and Drava Rivers, and is one of the largest natural wetlands in Europe. Keen bird-watchers can join a boat trip to spot white-tailed eagles, black storks, purple herons, spoonbills and wild geese – just some of the park’s 290 bird species. You can also follow the 2.4km-long (1.5 miles) boardwalk along an educational trail winding through the flooded forest floor and learn about local flora and fauna on the way.

9. Šibenik 

Set on a bay connected to the Adriatic Sea, Šibenik is a charmer that somehow – undeservedly – falls off the radar . For starters, it has two UNESCO sites: its gorgeous landmark, the 15th-century St James’ Cathedral , notable for its frieze of 71 comical faces carved into its facade, and St Nicholas Fortress, a sea-bound fortification built during Venetian times that’s linked to the mainland via a walkway, granted the World Heritage honor in 2017.

This once carefully guarded city boasts three other fortresses; Barone is the most visit-worthy, thanks to its excellent visitor center and interactive exhibits.

Planning tip: Hop on the ferry for the short trip to tiny Zlarin, a car-free island.

10. Zagorje

In  Zagorje , postcard-worthy medieval castles sit waiting for time travelers. Journey back to 1334 in Trakošćan Castle , whose neo-Gothic 19th-century exterior hides far older internal structures. Learn about the excesses of the Croatian aristocracy in its well-presented museum and wander 215 acres of castle grounds, landscaped into a romantic English-style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake.

Further west, the hilltop castle of Veliki Tabor  offers a trip to the 16th century, with its pentagonal towers and turrets, atmospheric interiors and bucolic landscapes that surround it.

11. Dubrovnik

The extraordinary fortified city of Dubrovnik is Croatia’s most popular destination for good reason. Enclosed within its massive city walls are more than a dozen churches, medieval monasteries, elegant squares of limestone and centuries-old residential quarters. An absolute must-do is the circular walk atop its walls , where you can catch glimpses of hidden courtyards and gardens and sweeping sea views.

Planning tip: Walk the walls first thing in the morning or an hour before closing to avoid the crowds and summer heat.

12. Brač Island

Near the town of Bol on Brač’s southern coast lies the tail-shaped Zlatni Rat , Croatia’s most photographed beach. As astonishing as its shape are the two-toned blue-green waters lapping its strand of fine pebbles. Its eastern side gets a steady breeze, drawing swarms of wind- and kitesurfers.

Looming above is Vidova Gora , the highest peak in the Adriatic islands at 778m (2552 ft), with gorgeous vistas of nearby islands and the famous beach below. For a taste of island life , make a halt at the colorful fishing villages of Milna or Sutivan.

Planning tip: Stop in at the Olive Oil Museum in Škrip to learn about Brač’s history of production.

Set on a peninsula, Zadar ’s compact old town is crammed with Roman ruins, Byzantine churches and Romanesque cathedrals . Dating back to Venetian times, its defensive walls are recognized by UNESCO and have been transformed into a tree-lined promenade tracing the seafront.

At nightfall, the northwest corner of the old town is the stage for Zadar’s celebrated sunsets. The spectacle is set to the ethereal sounds of the Sea Organ , a quirky installation of 35 pipes hidden under stone steps that use the wind to create music. A few feet away is the Sun Salutation , a circular surface of solar panels that transforms into a colorful light show at night.

Planning tip: From Zadar, it's a one-hour drive south to Vransko Lake Nature Park, Croatia’s largest natural lake and home to more than 100 bird species.

Wild, rugged and unspoiled, Cres  has an off-the-beaten-track vibe. Cres Town is a busy port town with pastel-colored facades, while the quiet fishing village of Valun is bookended by immaculate pebble beaches. A hiking path from here heads upwards to Lubenice , a hamlet of stone houses perched on the edge of a 378m-high (1240ft) sea-facing cliff.

Lying at the island’s southern end is Osor, a charming village of stone cottages and rose gardens with a pleasing artistic bent, revealed in the stylized bronze sculptures of musicians decorating its squares.

Planning tip: At Osor, a short bridge connects Cres to the island of Lošinj .

15. Krka National Park

The star of the show at this national park is the Krka River, rushing through canyons, broadening into lakes and splashing over numerous falls and cascades. Stroll along boardwalks past mighty waterfalls and marvel at the multitude of fish darting through the emerald waters.

You’ll also find ruins of a Roman military camp and amphitheater, historic watermills, and two fascinating monasteries – one on an island and another built over ancient catacombs.

Zagreb is made for strolling. Wander along the tree-lined Strossmayer promenade, which winds along the city’s medieval defensive walls to the Upper Town for panoramic views over the red rooftops and church spires of the Lower Town. Afterward, stop off at the open-air Dolac Market , where farmers peddle their fresh produce under bright red umbrellas. Then do like the locals and head for a coffee on Flower Square (Cvjetni trg) to experience Zagreb's cafe culture.

This article was first published Nov 17, 2010 and updated Mar 2, 2024.

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The Ultimate 7-Day Croatia Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning the perfect Croatia itinerary is essential to ensuring you have the ideal trip to this incredible country.

Croatia is becoming an ever more popular European destination year after year as it has firmly cemented its beautiful Adriatic Riviera onto the pages of travel magazines, websites, and Instagram feeds. This incredibly diverse and welcoming country has endless opportunities to offer travellers.

While most visitors set their sites on Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, they fail to dig deeper and explore the seemingly endless wonderful places to visit if you have 7 days in Croatia.

Croatia is a lot bigger and has a more diverse climate than most visitors expect, so it is essential to properly plan out your route before you go.

So if you’re visiting Croatia, these three itineraries are perfect guidelines for having the best trip possible.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Croatia

Contrary to popular belief, Croatia isn’t all sunshine and sea every day of the year and the vast majority of the country really does experience all four seasons.

While winters in Dalmatia and on the coast tend to be mild compared to that of other European countries, the north of Croatia — in places like Zagreb or the Slavonia region — can expect to experience fairly heavy snowfall and average high temperatures that linger just above freezing.

It is also worth noting that a good majority of Croatia isn’t perennially blessed with endless sunny days. Zagreb, for instance, is actually quite wet and it is best to expect at least a few rainy days on your trip along the coast as well — depending on the season you are travelling.

In the most popular coastal cities in Croatia — like Split and Dubrovnik — you can expect a significant amount of rain in the winter months.

If you do want to avoid the hordes of tourist crowds, then winter can be an appealing option, especially if you’re not one to enjoy lazy beach and swimming days. It is worth knowing that many restaurants and tourist attractions are closed in the winter due to low demand.

The summer months of late June-August are the most popular times to travel to Croatia and if you plan to hit the most visited cities in the country, you can expect them to be very crowded. Temperatures can reach well over 30ºC (86ºF) on the coast and expect it to be even hotter in the capital.

Prices also mimic the high temperatures in the Croatian summer with everything from accommodation to restaurant costs inflated to take advantage of the tourism revenue. Places to stay tend to book out early, especially in July and August, so it is essential that if you’re planning a trip to Croatia , you plan well in advance if you are set on travelling in peak season.

Ideally, the best time of year to travel to Croatia is in the shoulder seasons directly surrounding summer. May and September have some of the best weather in Europe, where you can expect warm temperatures averaging around 25ºC (77ºF) and for the majority of your days to be sunny.

Most seasonal restaurants and tourist attractions will begin to open their doors again through the months of March-October so you will be able to see and eat everything that you could in the summer with a fraction of the crowds.

Getting Around Croatia

If you are only planning a one-week Croatia itinerary and want to make the most of your time, you need to be able to optimise your transport so you spend more time sightseeing and less time in transit.

If you want to rely on public transport when getting from point A to B in Croatia, then you’re going to need to get to know the bus network. Like many Balkan countries, Croatia doesn’t have an advanced train system and the majority of inter-city transport is dominated by the humble bus.

Bus connections between major cities are frequent, but they can book out early during the summer months. There are a number of different transit companies to choose from, some of which allow you to book tickets online.

Others might require you to buy a bus ticket at the station. You can check bus timetables and routes throughout Croatia on Busbud . Another thing to keep in mind is that most buses do charge to put luggage into hold — usually around €1-2.

If you can and your Croatia budget allows for it, a far better transportation option for one week in Croatia is to rent a car.

This will allow you to be more flexible with your departure times and reach places that aren’t as well-served by the bus network. Driving in Croatia is easy and going on a Croatia road trip is one of the best ways to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time.

If you only have a week, you are going to want to see as much of the country as you can and it isn’t always possible to do with irregular bus timetables and long travel times.

You can browse Rentalcars.com which compares car hire prices across major companies. Alternatively, check out Localrent which can connect you with smaller companies or individuals renting their cars.

If you’re flying into Croatia and are not hiring a car, you can organise a private transfer from the airport here.

Classic 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

If it is your first time visiting Croatia, then this is the one-week itinerary you should follow. It covers all of the main tourist highlights of Croatia with possible day-trip options to nearby national parks and beautiful islands.

We do recommend renting a car for this route, however, if you want to save money, a car is not necessary for the Zagreb portion of this trip. You can go ahead and rent a car when leaving the capital and save a couple of days of fare and parking fees.

Day 1 – Zagreb

The most logical place to start this route through Croatia is in the vibrant capital of Zagreb . For many years, tourists have treated Zagreb as merely a place to fly into before making a beeline for the coast — maybe spending a night there if their flight arrives late and leaving first thing in the morning.

However, in recent years, Zagreb has really come into its own as a tourist destination, which is why we recommend spending two days in the Croatian capital.

Zagreb has a gritty, artistic feel to it and has a number of interesting things to do. Take a walking tour of the city to get your bearings and explore some of the main historical sites like St Mark’s Church, the Stone Gate, the Zagreb Cathedral and strolling through the lush Green Horseshoe Park.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Casablanca Boutique B&B   – This boutique bed and breakfast is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, it is located very close to the city centre and all of the main tourist attractions, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Hostel Mali Mrak – This locally-run hostel is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They have an incredibly friendly staff, great common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers and have both dorms and private rooms available. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zagreb

Day 2 – Zagreb

Though you can certainly see the majority of the highlights of Zagreb within the confines of one day, spending two days in the city is ideal if you want to go at a slower pace and get your bearings in Croatia.

If you spent your first day in the Old Town there are plenty of other places you can visit on the second day.

For instance, consider hopping on a bus to see the massive and sprawling Mirogoj Cemetery. Or, if you’re a craft beer fan, there are plenty of great brewpubs to hop between. Those who love quirky museums will also like the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Zagreb is also an excellent place to educate yourself on the Yugoslav Wars, which were particularly devastating here. Many people tend to forget the horrific conflict of the 1990s when visiting Croatia, but it is important to see how far the nation has come in the past 30 years.

Two days in Zagreb is a perfect amount of time to spend in order to really get a feel for the city and will probably lend to you longing to return one day!

Day 3 – Plitvice Lakes National Park

The iconic and gorgeous Plitvice Lakes National Park is the second-most visited attraction in Croatia (after Dubrovnik) and it is for good reason — it is absolutely spectacular.

This massive network of lakes and waterfalls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is enough to charm even the most ardent of city people and visiting is a highlight of any trip to Croatia. While it can get very busy in the summer months, it is still an unmissable area to explore in Croatia.

While many people visit Plitvice as a day trip from Zagreb or Split, we recommend spending a night near the park so you can get there as early as possible, avoid the inevitable tourist crowds, and spend as much time as you can in the park.

You need at least four hours to see the majority of the park, but you can easily spend longer. Because of this, we recommend leaving Zagreb in the evening, spending the night near the park, visiting Plitvice Lakes in the morning and then driving onto your next destination by the afternoon or evening.

If you don’t have a car, you can organise a guided tour  from Zagreb or a group tour that includes transport from Zagreb to Split.

Where to Stay in Plitvice Lakes

House Turkalj — This cosy family-run guesthouse is an excellent affordable option for those looking for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a handful of private ensuite rooms available along with self-catering facilities. They also offer complimentary beer and rakija.

Falling Lakes Hostel — This is a great option for backpackers, budget and solo travellers who want a place near Plitvice Lakes. They offer both dorm and private rooms, self-catering facilities, and will arrange a shuttle to the entrance of the lakes should you not have your own vehicle.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Plitvice Lakes!

Day 4 – Split

After spending two days of your week in Croatia soaking up the arts, culture, and nightlife of Zagreb and another day at the incredible Plitvice Lakes National Park, it’s time to head to the coast and Croatia’s second-largest city of Split.

The drive to Split is absolutely beautiful and there are lots of places in Croatia to stop and enjoy along the way, so make sure to spend your day taking advantage of seeing all there is on the Croatian coast.

Spend the next day taking advantage of all of the great things to do in Split . Walk around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the seaside promenade, enjoy a glass of Croatian wine at an outdoor cafe, or take a hike up Marjan Hill.

Where to Stay in Split

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites – If you’re looking for a little bit more luxury, then you can’t go wrong with this boutique hotel. They have a number of spacious and comfortable rooms on offer, are located close to both the centre of Split and within walking distance of the beach and have breakfast included and a restaurant on site.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  – This hostel is a great option if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They are centrally located, have excellent ratings, and offer both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Split

Day 5 – Split

On your second day, consider taking one of the many potential day trips from Split . You could head to the towns of Sibenik or Trogir (the latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the beautiful Krka National Park, or even make a trip to one of the islands off the coast — enjoy the laid-back nature of Brac or the lavender fields of Hvar for a day!

If you choose to visit Krka National Park, get an early start to beat the crowds – it’s located about an hour from Split. Here you can enjoy gorgeous lakes and waterfalls, swimming spots and nice walking trails.

The town of Sibenik is only about fifteen minutes from Krka, so it’s easy to also visit here. It’s small, but absolutely charming with great seaside views and plenty of winding, cobbled streets to get lost on.

If you want a jam-packed day, you could also tack on the town of Trogir on your way back to Split. This is an historic town on its own island (there is a bridge to get there) that is an absolute joy to explore.

Alternatively, consider taking a day trip to an island like Hvar or Brac. Brac is closer to Split but is a bit more sleepy – though it is home to the iconic Zlatni Rat Beach.

Hvar is a bit further away, but fast passenger ferries from Split can allow you to spend the day exploring the charming Hvar Town and swimming around the Pakleni islands.

If you have more than a week to dedicate to this particular itinerary, this is the time where it makes sense to spend more time. Spend an extra day or two in Split, for instance, and you can easily go on all of these day trips. If you have longer, head to an island like Hvar or Korcula for a few days before moving on to Dubrovnik.

Day 6 – Dubrovnik

The most popular place to visit in Croatia thanks in no part to  Game of Thrones , no trip to Croatia that covers the tourist highlights of the country would be complete without including the city of Dubrovnik .

Dubrovnik is the premier place to visit in Croatia and the image of its beautiful city walls is what automatically fills people’s imaginations when thinking of this Adriatic country. Keep in mind that Dubrovnik is small, can be very crowded, and is noticeably more expensive than anywhere else in the country.

That is not to say it’s not absolutely gorgeous and it is absolutely worth spending time in the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting Croatia. We recommend spending at least two days in Dubrovnik, one where you can stroll along the well-trodden tourist sites and another where you can try to explore outside of the Old Town.

Spend your first day in Dubrovnik taking in the highlights of the Old Town. Get an early start to beat the crowds on the City Walls and then continue on to visit the Pile Gate, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Rector’s Palace.

There are lots of day trippers and cruise ship crowds here, so the crowds can lessen significantly in the evenings. Take this time to enjoy a quieter side of Dubrovnik.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Boutique Hotel Porto   – Located directly in the Old Town, this boutique hotel is a great option if you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your time in Croatia. They have a range of clean, comfortable rooms on offer and it comes very highly rated. 

Old Town Hostel   — As the name suggests, this boutique hostel is located directly in Dubrovnik’s iconic Old Town. It is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city and has both dorm beds and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Dubrovnik

Day 7 – Dubrovnik

On your final day, you can use it as an opportunity to explore more of Dubrovnik and get a bit beyond the old town.

You could spend your day lounging on one of Dubrovnik’s beaches or, perhaps, visit lovely Lokrum Island located just a few hundred metres from the shores of the old town.

You can grab a ferry to Lokrun Island and reach it in about ten minutes from the centre of Dubrovnik. It is a nature reserve known for its lush greenery. There are also plenty of lovely, secluded swimming spots for those who want to splash in the water!

Dubrovnik is also a great base to take a few day trips. It is incredibly possible to visit the beautiful city of Kotor, Montenegro or marvel at the Stari Most in divided Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina . If you spend one day exploring the old town, it is totally possible to tack on a visit to either of the cities on the second day.

7-Day Adriatic Coast Itinerary

If you’re interested in spending time on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and want to see the highlights that lie in the cities, towns and islands of the Adriatic Sea, then this is the route for you.

It skips some of the inland attractions and concentrates solely on the coastal region. Keep in mind that this route is much easier to execute if you have your own vehicle.

Day 1 – Zadar

Begin your trip in the lovely town of Zadar . This historic town is located in the centre of the Dalmatia region and is actually home to its own international airport, so you can easily get here from plenty of other destinations across Europe.

Zadar is small but there is a lot to see and do in the town and it’s worth spending at least an entire day exploring. The pedestrianised old town doesn’t attract the crowds often seen in cities like Split and Dubrovnik.

There is a lovely seaside promenade complete with a delightful Sea Organ – a series of steps that plays music as the waves crash against it. There are also Roman ruins and beautiful churches to take in, along with swimming spots all along the promenade. There are also plenty of great cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Art Hotel Kalelarga   — This boutique hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and free breakfast in the morning in a fantastic Old Town Zadar location. It is one of the highest-rated hotels in Zadar and it is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury. 

Downtown Boutique Hostel  — This small boutique hostel is located in the centre of Old Town Zadar. They have a number of room options available — from dorm beds to privates  — and a friendly and helpful staff. This is a great budget option. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zadar

Day 2 – Krka National Park & Šibenik

On your second day, plan to make your way to Split as your final destination. However, there are a couple of excellent places you can visit within easy reach of Zadar.

Start your day with a visit to Krka National Park. Though not located directly on the coast, this gorgeous natural area is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in this part of Croatia. Within the park, you will find beautiful waterfalls, swimming areas and walking trails.

Only about fifteen minutes driving from Krka, you will find the lovely town of Sibenik, which is our second destination for the day.

This is another excellently-preserved old Croatian town and it is a true delight to wander through. It attracts even fewer crowds than Zadar, so you can certainly have some of the quiet, pedestrianised streets to yourself.

From Sibenik, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Split, your destination for the next two nights.

Day 3 – Split

Your third day of this route should be spent exploring the highlights of the city of Split. Though it’s Croatia’s second-largest city, you can easily explore the compact old town in the confines of a single day.

Because you’ve spent the night here, you can beat the crowds in Diocletian’s Palace and get an early start!

You can also take the time to hike up Marjan Hill where you can get incredible views of the city below and of the surrounding islands.

Day 4 – Hvar

Try to get an early start and hop on the earliest ferry you can to get to Hvar , one of the most popular Croatian islands to visit. Car ferries from Split arrive in the port in the town of Stari Grad, which is only about thirty minutes from the far more popular Hvar Town.

Spend your first day exploring the sites in and around Hvar Town. Wander the delightful Old Town and then take the time to lounge on the beach – Pokonji Dol Beach is an excellent option!

Alternatively, you can also join a boat tour or hop on a water taxi to the lovely Pakleni Islands, little islands that lie just off the coast from Hvar Town. These are great places to swim and sunbathe.

Hvar Town is also known for its nightlife. So, if it interests you, you can party into the wee hours of the night at one of the many beach clubs. Those looking for a quieter stay will find plenty of other great places to stay elsewhere on the island .

Where to Stay in Hvar

Pharos Hvar Hotel – Located in Hvar Town, this 3-star hotel is a good option on the island. They have a number of comfortable rooms to choose from and a great location for exploring the island and the town.

Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – This seaside hotel is a great luxury option in Hvar Town. They have an inviting swimming pool, an on-site spa and plenty of gorgeous rooms for guests to choose from.

Hostel Villa Skansi – This hostel is great for budget travellers looking to enjoy Hvar’s nightlife. They have a number of different rooms to choose from and social events organised each evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hvar hotels!

Day 5 – Hvar

On your second day in Hvar, continue to explore this beautiful and tranquil island! Your second day should be spent on the gorgeous Dubovica Beach before wandering over to explore cool and quiet Stari Grad.

You can stop off at some iconic Lavender Farms before wandering over to Vrboska – a town that has a lot of charm but not a lot of tourists. It’s a great place to sample some local wines and get a great meal!

Day 6 – Korčula 

Day six of this itinerary sees you going to another gorgeous Croatian island – Korcula . However, if you’ve had enough of islands and would rather visit Dubrovnik, then consider heading there from Hvar instead.

If you decide to head to Korcula, it can also be a good idea to get an early start. The easiest way to get there from Hvar is to drive to the Sucaraj ferry terminal and take the ferry to the mainland, then drive to the Orebic ferry terminal and grab the boat from there to Korcula town.

Then, spend your first day exploring the beauty of gorgeous Korcula Town. Often marketed as a smaller Dubrovnik, this is an old and excellently preserved town that just oozes charm. There’s a lot to see here and there are also some great restaurants and lovely local wine bars to pop into.

Where to Stay in Korčula 

Apartments Milion – A great mid-range option in Korcula Town, this place offers both comfortable double rooms and apartments for guests to choose from. It makes for a great base when exploring the island.

Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel – This plush hotel in Korcula Town has a beautiful location right on the seaside. They have plenty of beautiful rooms and a great breakfast available in the mornings.

Hostel Korcula – Backpackers visiting Korcula will love this cool hostel in the centre of Korcula Town. They offer both dorms and privates and there are great common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Korcula hotels!

Day 7 – Korčula 

On your final day in Korcula, you can spend it lounging on the beach and, in the afternoon, enjoying some of the incredible wine that makes this island a dream destination. In the morning, head to the lovely Pupnatska Luka Beach and soak up some rays.

If you want to sample some local vintages, then consider heading to the inland town of Smokvica where there are several wineries that offer tastings.

In the second half of the day, make your way to the town of Lumbarda for more wine tasting. This town is also home to some of the island’s (and Croatia’s) only sandy beaches so you can enjoy this, as well.

7-Day Istrian Highlights Itinerary

If it isn’t your first time in Croatia — or even if it is and you’re keen to venture away from the well-trodden tourist path — then consider heading to the northwestern region of Istria.

This triangular peninsula is often considered to be Croatia’s gastronomic heart and it offers incredible ancient historical sites, beautiful coastal cities, and imposing hill towns to rival those of Tuscany. So, if you want to take the road less travelled, take a look at this Istria itinerary :

Day 1 – Pula

Begin your trip in the historic port city of Pula. Pula has an international airport that serves a multitude of airlines and destinations but if you don’t arrive by plane, it is also well-connected by bus.

Three days in Pula is sufficient in order to be able to see all of the incredible sites that the city has to offer while also giving you time to take a day trip or two.

Spend your first day checking out the amazing Pula Arena, visiting the number of interesting museums in the city, browsing the bustling Pula market and learning about Pula’s history.

Foodies will love the House of Istrian Olive Oil, which is a museum that explains the history of olive oil in the region and also allows you to have some tastings. There is some delicious extra virgin olive oil to enjoy here!

Of course, the Pula Arena is really the draw of exploring this city and it is truly spectacular. Excellently preserved, it is smaller than the Colosseum of Rome, however, it attracts far fewer people, as well.l You can climb all around the arena so it’s a very cool place to visit.

Where to Stay in Pula

Boutique Hotel Oasi  – This small hotel is located very close to the beach and a short distance from central Pula. They have a number of rooms on offer, a restaurant on site, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Boutique Hotel Valsabbion  – If you’re the type to travel in luxury, then this boutique hotel is the place for you. Boasting sleek modern rooms, a fantastic swimming pool, an on-site spa, a beachfront location and much more, this hotel is sure to give you a great experience in Pula! 

Crazy House Hostel   – Located in the centre of the Old Town, this hostel is the perfect place for solo travellers on a budget and there is a fantastic outdoor terrace to relax on. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Pula!

Day 2 – Brijuni Islands

You can spend your second day either taking in more of Pula itself or going on a day trip to the wonderful Brijuni Islands.

These were once the summer home of former Yugoslav dictator Josip Broz Tito and today are a wildlife park and nature reserve.

To get to the Brijuni Islands, you must take a ferry from the nearby town of Fazana. This is a pedestrian-only ferry as there are no cars on the island.

Once there, it can be a great idea to hire a bicycle and ride around the island – it’s quite flat and there are plenty of secluded beaches to enjoy.

Day 3 – Labin & Rabac

On the third day, you can either take a day trip to neighbouring hill towns like Labin or spend the day lounging on a nearby beach.

There is a lot to see in this area of Istria so using Pula as a base for 3 nights really makes sense even if you only spend one full day exploring the city itself. The hill town of Labin, for instance, is located only about 45 minutes from Pula and it can be a delightful place to explore.

Nearby, if you want some seaside charms, head to the small town of Rabac, which is absolutely charming and with wandering through, as well. There are also plenty of beaches you could choose to visit should you wish to have a lazy day of sunbathing.

Day 4 – Umag

After spending some time enjoying the history and atmosphere of Pula, it’s time to head to one of the most underrated towns in Istria: Umag.

Umag is a small seaside town in the northwest of Istria and has a quaint and compact old town, a number of stellar swimming spots, great restaurants, and is close to some of Istria’s best vineyards. Two days here should be enough.

Spend the first day exploring Umag itself and maybe take the time to visit a local vineyard for some wine tasting. You can even head to the beach and swim in the warm Adriatic.

Where to Stay in Umag

Vilola  – A small boutique hotel located close to some of the best swimming areas in Umag, Vilola offers air-conditioned rooms with their own balcony and breakfast included in the room rate. 

Hotel Arte Casa  – Another boutique hotel in Umag, this one also has a great breakfast included in the nightly rate, air-conditioned rooms, and free parking on the premises. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Umag!

Day 5 – Istrian Hill Towns

On the second day staying in Umag, take to the car and head inland to visit some of the most picturesque hill towns in Istria. Buje, Groznjan, and Motovun are all within easy reach of Umag.

Here you can also dine on truffles and pasta for a fraction of the cost of elsewhere in the world.

This area of Croatia is completely different from the most popular tourist destinations and it is sure not to disappoint.

Day 6 – Rovinj

After enjoying the hustle and bustle of Pula and the laid-back nature and nearby hill towns of Umag, it’s time to head to the most iconic Istrian town: Rovinj.

Rovinj is an absolutely beautiful seaside town in western Istria and boasts a number of interesting things to do. Its proximity to some of the best beaches in the region is an appealing reason to visit Rovinj as well.

Spend one day exploring the Old Town and take the time to just let your feet wander and get lost. Walk around the harbour, stop in for a drink at one of the many seaside cafes, and even climb the bell tower of St Euphemia’s Church.

Day 7 – Rovinj

On your second day in Rovinj and last day of this Croatia trip, you can either spend it laying on the beach and soaking up the bright Adriatic sun or you can hop in the car and go on another day trip.

The small hill town of Bale or the lively seaside towns of Porec and Vrsar are both appealing options, as is the beautiful Lim Fjord.

Where to Stay in Rovinj

Hotel Angelo d’Oro   – A small hotel in the middle of old town Rovinj, this place has a number of rooms on offer and comes very highly rated. Breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Rooms Barbieri – Located only five minutes from the old town, this charming hotel is a great option for a place to stay in Rovinj. The rooms are large and comfortable and it also includes breakfast in the room rate. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Rovinj!

Croatia is an absolutely gorgeous and welcoming country that just begs to be explored. However, mapping out the ideal 7 days in Croatia itinerary is paramount to ensuring you have the best Croatian adventure possible!

Are you planning to visit Croatia? Have any questions? Let us know in the comm

Related Posts:

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Dubrovnik Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Split Itinerary

The Ultimate One Day in Zagreb Itinerary

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

Hi, we are staying for 7 days. Our worry is that we arrive late at night around 00:30 in Zagreb. Do you suggest to immediately move out of Zagreb and then to return to Zagreb on the last two days (to avoid problems cause of the flight?) Also, at night which is the easiest way to travel and would Zadar be a good place to be based at? Thanks a lot!

Hi-is it reasonable to drive from Vienna to Croatia or is it better to fly & rent a car in Zagreb? Was thinking of focusing on Istrian area due to time constraints & found a hotel that caters to Vegan diets. Is there enough to do in that area for 6-7 days if your primary interest is pretty nature? Thanks

Hi Mark, especially if you’re heading to Istria and not further south in Croatia, it’s not unreasonable at all to drive from Vienna. In fact, it’s a gorgeous drive and you will have lots of opportunities for stop-offs along the way. The drive from Vienna to Pula is about 6 hours.

There is certainly enough to do in Istria to fill 6-7 days and I would highly recommend spending that amount of time there!

We are interested in visiting the Balkans at the beginning of November for about 11 days. We can rent a car but I would like to start from Sarajevo and end there. I thought of doing two countries only, maybe Bosnia and Croatia. Or Bosnia and a different country – which one? We would need to get back to Sarajevo. We are also interested in the Jewish background of the Balkans, both historically, after the expulsion from Spain through the Holocaust. Can you help me to put my head in order :-)?

For 11 days, I think you could easily visit some highlights of Bosnia along with bits of Croatia. Especially if you’re interested in Jewish history, Sarajevo can be a great place to visit.

Hi Maggie, we are planning a 20 day trip to Croatia late July/beginning of August with 3 kids (8, 12, 14). We are arriving and departing from Dubrovnik. We would like to end our trip in Dubrovnik and since there isn’t a convenient flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb, we will have to hit the road as soon as we land. We would like to visit Istria, Lake Bled/Vintgar Gorge, Plitvice Lakes, Rijeka, Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik with various day trips throughout. It would be nice to see Zadar and/or Zagreb as well but not sure if we will have time or if necessary. We love hiking, beaches and of course sight seeing. I’m trying to figure out what’s the best way to plan out our trip. Should we break up our initial 7 hour drive from Dubrovnik or go straight through? Where should we stop first and in what order should we make our remaining stops? I would like to see as much as we can but at the same time not be overwhelmed and have some beach time. Please help!

We are arriving in Croatia in the middle of June for 7 night staying in Lapad can you recommend where to start exploring first

We need to fly into Zadar or Zagreb either is fine and out of Split. Give or take a week. We don’t need a ton of hiking but would like to see some falls. Islands? Cities. We need a plan.

Hello Maggie,

As first, I want to say that I do like your overview of Croatia trip in general and thank you for it.

However, I must say that it is very sad how people focus only on coastal region of Croatia, with exception of Zagreb and Plitvice lakes, and completely ignore the continental part of it, which is definitely not fair.

Places like Vinkovci, the oldest settlement in Europe where two Roman emperors were born, then numerous wine cellars and vineyard, especially in the town of Ilok, whose wine was used during coronation of Queen Elisabeth II and on Price Harry and William weddings, city of Osijek with its baroque architecture, city of Djakovo with its royal breed of horses called Lipizzaner which are so beautiful – closest thing to Unicorns as they are called, then the City of Varazdin, called also a “Little Vienna”, formerly even a capital of Croatia (18th century) with a beautiful castle and mesmerizing baroque style architecture, Croatian Sahara, numerous castles all around, river sites, and as I like to say most important of all, the amazing food and the most warm and welcoming people of all. Of course, there are so many more that I didn’t mention, but I don’t want to keep this long.

At the end, this is not a criticism and have no negative connotations, but just maybe a pointer that there is another side of Croatia, that is far from the sea and common touristic spotlight, however still beautiful and wort to visit.

We are planning a trip to Croatia in March 2023. Our flight lands in Zagreb on 03/09. We fly out of Zagreb as well. Have about 8 days. I like your first itinerary, but we wanted to see Istria as well. We are not planning on going all the way to Dubrovnik on this trip. Any suggestions as to routes? Would like to hit Zadar, Split, Plitvice Lakes Park, and Istria. We will rent a car. Thank you!

Hi Sandy, unfortunately, it’s not very practical to include all you want on your itinerary – especially when considering travel times. Personally, I would suggest not planning on visiting Istria if you would like to see all of the other parts of Croatia, as well.

We are planning a trip next month for 7 days and interested into going to Montenegro from Dubrovnik. I think it would be too much to think we could get to the Plitvice National Park as well? What are your suggestions in Montenegro?

Thank YOU! Sharon

I am visiting Slovenia and Croatia next summer for approximately 8 days . We will arrive in Lublanja in the middle of the day and leave from Dubrovnik at noon the last day. We would like to spend 1/2 day in Lubalanja and 11/2 days in lake bled , a day in Novo Mesto, 1/2 day in Pula and2 days in Dubrovnik We we’re thinking of a tour to Mostar and Medjagorje one day Can we do this in the time allotted? We will not be driving Could you give us a time efficient itinerary that would make it possible?

Hi Jackie, this route seems far too rushed to be enjoyable and to actually spend any time in any of the places you’re keen to visit — you’ll be spending the majority of your time in transit. I would suggest planning to spend your entire time in Slovenia or visiting a bit of Slovenia and Croatian Istria. You can find our Slovenia itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/slovenia-itinerary/

Hi Maggie, Thank you for writing one of the most thorough blogs about traveling in Croatia! I’d love to get your advice on my itinerary. I will be going to Croatia from Slovenia and will have 7 days and 6 nights. I’d like this to be a more relaxed trip if possible…and am so torn between chilling on an island an skipping Dubrovnik or fitting Dubrovnik in! My flight is out of Split so I do need to get back there somehow and figure out what to do with the car I rent. What are your thoughts on the following:

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > 4 nights in Hvar or Brac > Depart from Split

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > Hvar or Brac for 2 nights > Dubrovnik for two nights > Split overnight > Depart from Split

Option 2 honestly sounds pretty intense. That said, do you think it’s doable? If I were to go with Option 1, do you have any suggestions between Hvar or Brac and where to stay?

Thank you so much!

Hi Gina, happy you’ve found this article helpful! I do think that your second option is doable, however, it does sound quite rushed and exhausting, especially if you’re looking to chill out a bit!. Personally, I would opt for the first option to have a more relaxing trip 🙂

Hey Maggie I hope my message finds you well! We are planning with my partner a 6 days 5 nights trip starting and ending from Zagreb airiport, at the end of August with Flix bus and Ferries. We arrive in Zagreb at 14:00 Day one and Im thinking of after spending 3 hours in Zagreb to leave for either Pula or Rovijn, spend the Night and few hours the next Day. After I was checking if there is a way to travel with Ferrie directly to Split, spend the next evening there and travel with Ferrie to Dubrovnik for night number three. Next evening I was thinking of catching the evening Flix bus for Plivitce lake, in order to get in early in the morning. Later get back to Zagreb for an early flight the next Morning.

Is it possible you thhink with Bus and Ferrie, what should I leave back or add, any advices.

Hi Zak – honestly, I think your itinerary is way too hectic for the short time you have. I’d recommend concentrating on one of the routes I have outlined above for a less stressful and easier to coordinate trip 🙂

Thanks so much for this blog it is awesome! We are a family of four with two teenagers. Are we too late to plan a visit this summer? We are environmental scientists so I am mostly interested in enjoying the natural beauty of Croatia. What is your favorite island? I am obsessed with swimming holes and also clear blue waters…. What do you think two teenage girls would like the best?

Thanks for your comment, April, and I’m so happy you’ve found this article helpful! I don’t think that you’re too late to be planning a trip for the summer at all! Unfortunately, I don’t have too much experience travelling to the Croatian islands (I hope this changes soon, though!), but I do think that the island of Brac sounds like a good fit for you. It’s easy to reach from Split and has lots of great swimming areas. Hope you’re able to have a great trip!

Looking at booking Croatia for July/August 2021 and wanting to spend 14 days touring the country. What airport would you suggest to fly into and what airport would you suggest to leave out of? We are avid hikers and defiantly enjoy our ocean and water days. Enjoy the finer hotels and spas also. Very excited being my great grandmother and grandfather came from Croatia I want to experience the finest places the country offers.

Pat Williams

Hi Pat, I would recommend flying into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik (or vice versa) if you want to see a good portion of the country in 2 weeks. Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

Hi Maggie. I am planning a trip of about 7 days to Croatia the first part of June. I have heard such wonderful things about Rovinj and the Iberia peninsula, but we also want to visit Split and Dubrovnik. Any suggestions or is this just trying to cram too much into a week? Most of the itineraries that I see online are an either/or for visiting those areas..

Hi Karen, unfortunately, it will likely be a bit too rushed if you plan to visit Istria and also Split and Dubrovnik in just one week. You can very easily spend a week just in Istria and even more in Dalmatia, so I would recommend weighing which areas appeal to you most and concentrating on those. You just might have to plan another trip!

Hi. What is the best way to tour the islands? Day trips or charter a sleeping boat for a few days? Want to enjoy the coastal scenery without feeling rushed by a group boat. And, when does Summer/high season officially end?

Hi Cindy, if you don’t want to feel rushed on the islands, then I would recommend spending a few days overnight on the ones that interest you rather than going on day trips. A boat charter is also a great idea if you want to island hop with more flexibility! High season is typically over by the end of September and you will start to see tourists clearing out and some businesses closing up by this time. The weather usually stays very nice through October, though, depending on where you are in the country!

I am planning a trip for 2 and most likely following a schedule similar to your “Classic Croatia” route. I was interested in visiting Krka National Park as well. Do you think it is worth it or is similar to Plitvice and not necessary?

Hi Holly, thanks for your comment! Both Krka and Plitvice are similar, but you can still get different things out of them if you want to visit both. For instance, you can go swimming at Krka which is not allowed at Plitvice. I personally think that both are worth visiting but Plitvice is more stunning than Krka in my opinion.

Hi Maggie, My wife and I are planning a 14 day motorhome tour of Croatia in mid September 2020. Our trip starts in Zagreb and ends in Dubrovnik. We currently have no Itinerary but would like to spend equal time travelling the coast and inland areas. Could you advise any web sites that show motorhome overnight parking. Regards

Hi Peter, sounds like you’re in the process of planning a great trip! Unfortunately, I don’t know much at all about motorhome travel, so I can’t advise you in that area. Hope you have a great time in Croatia!

Hi Maggie, I have planned my visit to Croatia from 25th Feb to 02nd March 2020. It is going to be me and my wife only. We will land in Zagreb on 25th Feb and would move out from Dubrovnik on the 02nd of March (Flights already done). Can you suggest what all places to be covered in this duration and how is the weather going to be like? Also, I am a bit confused b/w taking a rental car (don’t know whether it is left or right hand drive) or taking public transport like bus or taxis.

Hi Apoorv, I have covered a week-long itinerary starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik as well as the average weather to expect above. Croatia, like most European countries besides the UK, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus, drives on the right-hand side. All major cities are well-connected by bus. Relying on taxis to get around is an option, however, it will be very expensive. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!

HI I’m travelling to Croatia in early May 2020. Land Zagreb, 7 days, finishing in Dubrovnik (probably fly into Athens from here I’m thinking). A friend told me that Plitvice Lake NP required 2days and to stay there a night. What’s your thoughts on this?? Many thanks Anne-Marie

Hi Anne-Marie, I think you would only need 2 days in Plitvice if you’re really into hiking and nature and that’s why you’re visiting Croatia. Especially since you only have 7 days, there are many more places to spend time in Croatia. Hope you have a great trip!

Where should one start its trip from? If we are skipping Zagreb, and want to cover places like Split , Plitvice, Dubrovnik. Any other place that should which is highly recommended?

Hi Archie, if you don’t plan on visiting Zagreb, starting in Split or Dubrovnik makes sense. If you want to visit another coastal town, Zadar will make a nice stop. Also, there are numerous islands (Hvar, Brac, Korcula, etc) that are worth visiting.

20 days in Croatia and neighboring countries

We are 6 active hikers booked a trip to Croatia for 10 days in early May, 20 2 nights Opatija 1 night Split 2 nights Dubrovnik 1 night Vodice 1 night Zagreb 2 nights Bled

We would like to stay 10 more days to go to neighboring countries as well as doing a little hiking, biking and kayaking the area.

We are planning our flight from Vancouver. Our trip starts at Opatija and ends at Bled. Any suggestions on a good itineraries for pre and post trip?

Thanks for your comment, Jennifer. For the rest of your trip, any of the itineraries in this article might be good for you. If you are curious about exploring more of the Balkans besides just Croatia and Slovenia, we also have some Balkan itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/plan-balkans-travel-itinerary/

Hi , I would be landing at zadar airport in september and planned for a 7 day trip, could you suggest how should we plan.. About us- Couple with no historical interests but love nature, scenery , beaches. Have to use public conveyance only for travel within croatia.

We are looking for a relaxed trip not a rushed one.

Thanks in advance.. Silky

Hi Silky, I would recommend you rework the Adriatic coast itinerary above to begin and end in Zadar rather than Zagreb. Going from Zadar-Zagreb-Split-Zadar or Zadar-Split-Zagreb-Zadar both work equally well and are all easily accessible via public transit. Hope you have a great trip!

I briefly read the article and maybe you covered it already. But most people will fly into Zagreb. With a 7 day itinerary using a rental car, you will start at the North and end in Dubrovnik. One has to account the time to get back to Zagreb. Any suggestions on how best to do this?

Hi Jacob, thanks for your comment. Because many people start and end their Croatia trips from different areas of the country (there are numerous airports that people will fly into, not just Zagreb!), I’ve left out how to get back to your beginning point. However, if you’re planning on renting a car in Zagreb and making your final destination in Dubrovnik, I see no reason why you couldn’t just drive back to Zagreb. It is often a lot cheaper to pick up and return a rental car to the same location. There are also numerous bus connections to Zagreb from just about every major city in Croatia, including Dubrovnik, if you don’t want to drive back to the capital yourself.

Hi Maggie, How’s Croatia in the dead if winter? January end Feb beginning? Where do you recommend travelling and what’s there to see. Thanks b

It depends on what you’re after, but the seaside towns will be pretty sleepy in the winter months. It’s a good time to visit Dubrovnik as you can experience the city with far fewer tourists than in the high season. Across the board, you will find accommodation prices to be a lot cheaper than in the more popular months, but some businesses may not be open in the middle of winter. Hope this helps!

Hello, Maggie! travellers plan to travel to visit Croatia in June, 2019, it would be around from June 26 to July 2-3 return,trip planned sbout 7-8 days at the destination. We are coming and driving a minibus (minivan) so ,it means we are very flexible on route and in any destinstion, we are free and sould move to any place any fay. As we primary memtioned, our start of the itinerary would be Zagreb, Split or Dubrovnik. Is it right if westart our trip from Riga by bus? By our plans we have to cross Latvia, Lithuania? Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and then somehow enter the Croatia. Could you corret me and suhgest me the best trip option (7-8days trip) for us as necessary?! Best regards, Ieva Lukina (ieva@21. lv)

Hi Ieva, I think that if you only have 7-8 days for your trip, trying to drive from Riga to Croatia is going to take up a good portion of it and give you very little time to explore Croatia itself. Maybe, if you can, try to allot more time for the trip or concentrate on travelling a little closer to home instead, this time around.

It’s tough making a decision, there are so many places to see that are gorgeous. I’m honestly not a big fan of Zagreb, it’s not the real Croatia to me. It’s Central Europe. Croatia for me is Central Dalmatia and to a smaller extent, Istria. For me, the highlights of the country range along the coast from Zadar (with an excursion inland to Plitvice) to Dubrovnik (from where I think Kotor is a must see as you mention). So many great spots on the way though: Sibenik, Omis, Makarska, the island of Vis…and that’s not even including the islands on the south. So much to see.

Thanks for the comment, Frank! I agree with you that it’s so hard to plan a route in Croatia…you could easily spend months there and not see everything!

I’m going to have to disagree with you about Zagreb, however. While I’m the first person to say that a capital city isn’t necessarily reflective of a country on the whole, I’m not sure it’s right to say that it’s not the “real” Croatia. It’s certainly much different than the cities in Dalmatia, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit and I think including it on a Croatia itinerary is important to get a feel for all sides of the country…even if you only have a short period there.

Great suggestions elsewhere…I’ve only been to Šibenik out of the places you mentioned and thought it was absolutely lovely. Like you said…there’s just so much to explore!

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What NOT to do in Croatia: Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make

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Croatia is one of my favorite destinations on the planet. I’ve explored the country in depth and consider myself a Croatia expert. It’s heart-wrenchingly beautiful and an absolutely divine place to spend the summer!

Which is why it drives me crazy when I see travelers making big mistakes in Croatia — mistakes that I’ve learned the hard way during my own travels in Croatia. A list of what NOT to do in Croatia.

It’s okay if you make mistakes! I don’t expect anyone to know Croatia like a native, and mistakes often turn into great memories.

But my ultimate goal is for you to have a Croatia trip that you’ll remember fondly for the rest of your life. Follow these tips and you will be well on your way.

Here is my list of what NOT to do in Croatia!

Table of Contents

Assuming Croatia is in Eastern Europe.

The easiest way to piss off a Croatian is to tell them you visited because you’ve never been to Eastern Europe before. Yikes.

Eastern Europe is great. But Croatia is not Eastern Europe.

A lot of travelers tend to think that anything east of Germany is considered Eastern Europe. Not so. Central Europe is a huge region that doesn’t get enough attention as its own entity. While Eastern Europe includes countries like Romania, Latvia, and Ukraine; Central Europe includes countries like the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary.

Some people refer to the countries of the Former Yugoslavia and Albania as the Balkans or the Western Balkans; I am one of them. The Balkans are also considered part of Central Europe.

(Then again, it can be complicated. Some Croatians reject the name “the Balkans” due to the history of war. Many Croatians prefer the term “the Adriatic.”)

Don’t expect Eastern European prices, either. It’s often said that if you want to save money in Europe, head east. And you can often get much better value for money in Central Europe than in Western Europe.

But Dubrovnik, Hvar , Rovinj, and Vis can be remarkably expensive. Like most other countries in Europe, the cheapest places tend to be in rural areas away from the coast. And if you’re looking for a cheap Croatia beach trip, you’re best off renting an apartment in an area more popular with Europeans, like the Makarska Riviera.

If you’re coming to Croatia for Eastern European prices, get ready for your eyes to pop out of your head.

Visiting Croatia by cruise ship.

If I had to pick out the single worst thing about tourism in Croatia, it would be the impact of large cruise ships. If I could wave a magic wand and make all the megaships disappear from Croatia, I would.

Croatia is a popular cruise destination, and there are many cruises from Venice to Greece that stop along the Croatian coast, particularly in Dubrovnik.

But in the last few years, megaship tourism has surged, and Croatian cities are too small to accommodate these crowds. They can’t handle an extra 3,000 to 6,000 on top of the regular travelers they get. Go to Dubrovnik on a July day and the old city will be packed from wall to wall with sweaty people.

If you’re on a cruise ship, this is the only way you’ll experience Dubrovnik — during the hottest part of the day with all the massive crowds. If that’s the only glimpse of Dubrovnik you get, I don’t blame you for not enjoying yourself. That’s the reason why it’s best to avoid Dubrovnik when cruise ships are in port and it was extraordinary exploring an empty Dubrovnik in summer 2020 .

Additionally, cruise ship passengers make a negligible economic impact on the destinations they visit. They don’t spend money on accommodation. They might not spend money on restaurants — why eat off the ship if it’s free on the ship?

That said — small sailing trips can be a wonderful way to see Croatia! It makes a much gentler impact on the environment, you spend more time in the ports and dock closer to town, and sailing the Adriatic is something you need to do once in your lifetime, even if it’s just for one day.

I did a sailing trip with Busabout that was a LOT of fun , though very much for young backpackers. (A great trip to take in my twenties, but I’ve aged out of that kind of trip. I’d go with G Adventures if I went today. You can see their Croatia sailing trips here. )

Just keep in mind that even with a small sailing ship, you’re on someone else’s schedule, not yours. You give up flexibility in exchange for that kind of trip.

Overall, you don’t need a tour in Croatia. It’s a very easy country to travel independently and you’ll be able to tailor a trip closer to your tastes if you rent a car and explore on your own.

Underestimating the steepness of the coastline.

On my most recent visit to Croatia, we started in the town of Bol on the island of Brač. We booked an apartment that was a bit further from the seafront because it was cheaper than the ones by the water’s edge.

Little did we know that walking back from the waterfront would be a 10-minute nearly-vertical uphill walk! And Bol was not the only place where we had that experience.

Croatia’s coastline is dramatic, jagged and mountainous. This steepness is why there are so many islands in the first place; it’s a world apart from the Italian side of the Adriatic.

And these old cities in Croatia are often not super-accessible. In Korčula , the old city itself is elevated like a wedding cake and accessible only by stairs. Rovinj is curvy and cobblestoned in addition to being steep. Even on the small island of Vis , parts of the town are walled off by steep inclines and staircases.

If you have mobility difficulties, Croatia can be very challenging. It’s not impossible to enjoy a trip here if you have mobility challenges, but I would do further research to make sure you’re able to get around easily.

And if you’re looking for a lazy trip without any multi-staircase climbs or trudges uphill, book accommodation close to the water!

Spending too much time in Split.

A lot of travelers choose to base in Split — and at first glance, it seems like a good idea. Split is Croatia’s second-largest city, home to the most flights in the country. It’s the main hub for ferries with easy access to lots of islands. It has a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Why not Split?

Well. It’s a big city. It gets horrendously hot in the summer. Diocletian’s Palace, which comprises much of the old city, is filled with price-gouging souvenir shops. And the only decent beaches are a ways away.

Split also tends to attract lots of wild, lads-on-holiday, drink-all-the-alcohol type travelers from within Europe.

Is Split worth visiting? Yes. Diocletian’s Palace is especially worth visiting, and it’s nice watching the sun go down on a square while having a glass of wine.

But Split is not the type of destination that travelers envision when planning a coastal holiday in Croatia. If you’re looking for a more peaceful atmosphere with nice beaches, the islands have more to offer. Zadar is lovely, too.

Someone on Reddit the other day asked for advice for their Croatia trip which had 10 days in Split and I spent a few hours convincing them to change their plans.

What’s the perfect amount of time to spend in Split? An overnight. I recommend arriving in the afternoon, exploring a bit, having a nice dinner, maybe dropping into a wine bar, and leaving in the morning by car or ferry . That’s all you need.

Getting around Croatia by public transportation.

Croatia is one of my favorite places in the world to explore by car. Seriously! Croatian roads are in excellent condition (though you do pay for that, with pricier-than-average tolls on the big highways), and the drivers are far more sane than their Balkan neighbors.

One of the pleasures of traveling around Croatia is stopping in randomly cute towns and pulling over to take photos of gorgeous viewpoints. And the drive along the Adriatic is one of the most stunningly beautiful journeys you can take! It’s much harder to enjoy that when you’re taking public transportation.

Some of Croatia’s islands, like Korčula, are good to explore by car. They’re a lot larger than you think. For example, it’s a 40-minute drive from Vela Luka to Korčula’s old town, and there are plenty of interesting places to explore along the way.

There are buses that criss-cross Croatia, and they’re in good shape. If all you need is a life from Split to Dubrovnik, you’ll be fine. Though keep in mind that island public transit is more limited.

Also: there are some trains in Croatia, but there’s no train to Dubrovnik. Lots of travelers come to Croatia expecting to be able to hop on a train to Dubrovnik, and nope, that doesn’t exist!

Dubrovnik will probably be the beginning or end of your trip, and you don’t need a car for your time in Dubrovnik. It’s a pain to park and it’s easy to get by with taxis.

Definitely rent a car. Make sure it’s an automatic if you don’t drive stick. And get ready for one of your best road trips ever!

Eating nothing but pizza and pasta.

When you say “Croatian food,” what comes to mind? Probably not much. And when you stroll through touristy areas, it seems like everyone is sitting down to pizza and pasta instead. Especially if you’re not a seafood eater.

There’s a lot more to Croatian food than you think! Superb fish dishes, enormous shrimp, squid ink risotto, pastas with Istrian truffles, rich grilled lamb, Pag cheese from the island of Pag. In Croatia I ate my weight in octopus salads and marinated anchovies!

But the single best food experience you can have in Croatia is enjoying a traditional peka, where dinner is cooked “under the bell.” You choose either veal and lamb or octopus, and it’s cooked under a bell in an oven for hours, with potatoes and other vegetables, until it becomes tender and glorious.

One of my all-time favorite Croatia experiences was attending a peka with  Dubrovnik Eat With Locals . You get to have dinner in a local couple’s backyard, share outstanding food with people from around the world, and you’ll leave stuffed with delicious food and grateful for new friendships. Marija and Zlatko are wonderful hosts.

And if you really want to blow your mind, head to Slavonia in the far northeast of the country and see what they have on offer. In the town of Osijek I enjoyed perkelt od soma , a stew of catfish cooked in tomatoes with lots of paprika, served with a side of pasta with bacon and soft white cheese. Then you put them both in a bowl and mix them together.

Only visiting one island: Hvar.

Hvar is the most famous of Croatia’s islands. It’s a lovely place — but it’s not the only Croatian island worth visiting, nor is it necessarily the best island for every traveler.

Hvar is perhaps most famous for its party scene. The partying is concentrated in Hvar Town with some clubs on the Pakleni Islands just off shore. Hvar is also home to some of the most high-end hotels and restaurants, particularly in Hvar Town.

As a result, Hvar is eye-waveringly expensive, and I don’t think the prices are worth it. I also wasn’t a fan of the trendy and wealthy party crowd that dominates in peak summer months.

There’s more to Hvar than just Hvar Town, though. I enjoyed Hvar more when I got outside the town. Maslina Resort is the most inspiring boutique hotel I’ve experienced. Jelsa was low-key and a good base for exploration. Canal-filled Vrboska was a lovely surprise.

So which Croatian island should you visit instead?

If you’re looking for a great all-around island with culture and interesting things to do, head to Korčula. Korčula packs a ton in, with history, island-hopping, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town, hidden beaches, sword dancing, and some wine varietals you can’t find anywhere else. See my Korčula guide here.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-filled island, head to Mljet. You’ll enjoy an expansive national park, mountain views, and streets that are easy to explore by bicycle. And if sleepy Mljet is too active for you, head to remote, forest-covered Lastovo instead!

If you’re looking for an easy island vacation with young kids, head to Brač. Brač is the fastest and easiest island to get to from Split, and the Bol area is filled with nice beaches (including world-famous Zlatni Rat), a boardwalk, and tons of kid-friendly amenities.

If you’ve done Croatia before and you’re looking for something truly special, head to Vis. This island is small and far out — but it’s upscale and feels a world away from the mainland. There aren’t as many activities but it’s good for relaxing. See my Vis guide here.

Finally, if you want an unpretentious, low-key escape with lots of wine, head to Pelješac. It’s actually a peninsula, not an island, but it’s such a distinctive area that it deserves to be on this list. Come here to road trip, drink Dingač red wine, and enjoy spectacular beaches — maybe even some windsurfing!

Swimming without water shoes.

Are water shoes really necessary in Croatia? ABSOLUTELY. I don’t think I’ve worn water shoes in my life, ever, except in Croatia. But if you’re in Croatia, you will be so glad that you packed water shoes.

The vast majority of Croatia’s beaches are either pebble beaches or slabs of rock. And when I say pebbles, it’s more akin to large round rocks. Sandy beaches do exist here and there, many of them on the island of Rab, but rocks and pebbles are the norm. Even famed Zlatni Rat on Brač, commonly believed to be sandy, is made of rocks!

The first time you try climbing out of the water on a pebble beach without water shoes, you’ll be wincing and toppling over before crawling your way out of the ocean like Tom Hanks in Cast Away . It’s not fun — and you may make a spectacle of yourself to the more experienced Croatian beachgoers.

As for rock slab beaches, people often cut their feet by accident when they hit a sharp rock. Water shoes keep you from injuring yourself this way and leaving a trail of blood behind you.

You can get a pair here.

Day tripping to Bosnia, Montenegro, or Slovenia.

I LOVE the Balkans, and many cool international spots are within close proximity to Croatia. I completely understand the impulse to visit as many countries as you can on a single trip. But international destinations like Mostar, Kotor , and Ljubljana are much better if you stay overnight.

If you visit during high season, as most Croatia travelers do, you could be spending hours of your day trip waiting at the border. An eight-hour trip, three or four hours of it at the border? Not very fun.

During high season, you’ll be crossing borders twice in a single day. (And in the case of Mostar, four times, due to passing through Neum, the little slip of Bosnia that bisects Croatia.)

Mostar, an incredibly moving town in Bosnia, works better as an overnight trip from Dubrovnik. I stayed overnight in Mostar and nighttime was magical — all the day trippers left, the bridge was lit up beautifully, and the city felt so light and airy.

Montenegro is one of my favorite countries — I adore it there. Many travelers do a day trip to Kotor, but I recommend staying for a few nights if you can. (Just don’t get haunted by a ghost like I did.) There’s so much to see, from whitewater rafting in Tara Canyon to city-hopping in Budva and Herceg Novi to catching a glimpse of Sveti Stefan at sunset.

As for Slovenia, many people visit Ljubljana or Bled for a day from Zagreb . That’s doable, but I honestly think Ljubljana and Bled are charming destinations that deserve more time. (And frankly, I prefer Ljubljana to Zagreb.) Slovenia is a very compact country and you can see a lot in a few days .

Sticking to the coast and ignoring the rest of the country.

Croatia is known for its beaches and coastline. You could easily spend your whole trip on the coast, but there are some wonderful inland destinations worth visiting as well.

There are the Plitvice Lakes, of course — the waterfalls that dot many a Pinterest board, and the most famous pit stop between Zagreb and Split! Far and away the most famous nature getaway in Croatia.

Krka National Park also has spectacular waterfalls — with the bonus that you can actually swim in them!

Zagreb is a nice, fun Central European city. Worth visiting, but I don’t think you need to spend much time there beyond a walk through town and a visit to the superb Museum of Broken Relationships .

But best place to enjoy inland Croatia is Istria — the heart-shaped peninsula at the northwest of the country. Grožnjan is a hill town filled with music and art. Motovun is spectacular, erupting from the land and surveying everything around it. Vodnjan is filled with art, blood-red buildings, and ancient mummies. Just driving around Istria can be a lot of fun!

You’ve got plenty of options.

It’s okay if you make a mistake!

This piece is tongue-in-cheek — I don’t expect you to be what my idea of a perfect traveler is. God knows how many mistakes I’ve made, both in Croatia and around the world. Please don’t take everything as gospel!

But Croatia is a very special place. I want you to have the best trip possible there — and I think following these tips will give you a Croatia trip to remember.

Planning a Trip to Croatia:

• Two Weeks in Croatia Itinerary
• Best Time to Visit Croatia
• Solo Female Travel in Croatia: Is it Safe?
• 30 Stunning Mediterranean Islands To Visit In Your Lifetime

Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:

• How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
• Why Korčula, Croatia, is the Coolest Island of All
• Vis, Croatia, is a Quietly Stunning Island
• Dubrovnik Survival Guide
• The Waterfalls of Krka National Park
• A Place Like Zadar
• 30 Fabulous Things To Do in Split, Croatia
• 29 Sunny Things To Do In Hvar, Croatia

Istria and the North:

• Guide to Rovinj, Croatia’s Prettiest City
• Places to Visit in Istria, Croatia’s Italian-Flavored Peninsula
• 21 Unforgettable Things To Do In Zagreb, Croatia

More on What NOT To Do:

• What NOT to Do in Prague
• What NOT to Do in Italy
• What NOT to Do in Croatia
• What NOT to Do in Iceland
• What NOT to Do in Mexico
• What NOT to Do in New York City
• What NOT to Do in Boston

Have you been to Croatia? Have any mistakes to add?

13 thoughts on “What NOT to do in Croatia: Biggest Mistakes Travelers Make”

How’s the language barrier in Croatia? Did you find it difficult in places outside of the main spots? (Or while driving?)

I visited for several weeks in 2016 and rented a car for a while. I don’t remember any language barrier. The road signs are in Croatian and English (and Italian in Istria), and in general European road signs have a lot less text and more images than American. Anyone working in tourism speaks English, as do all young people that I encountered.

Beautiful! I can’t wait to see it for myself — still hoping for that road trip — and I will be using your guides for sure. (Side note: There are steep cliffs on parts of the Italian Adriatic as well — specifically in Le Marche. They may not be as dramatic as Croatia’s, but try climbing the paths to Sirolo from its beach, and you’ll see it’s no joke!)

Omg do NOT tell anyone from the 3 Baltics that they’re in Eastern Europe – they HATE the association (probably more than the Croats bc of the Russia/USSR connection). They very much prefer to be Northern 🙂 I can even see Poland more logically be considered Eastern over Central, with a highly intertwined culture, history and geography with Ukraine and Belarus. PS – great list. These are often more helpful than the what TO do 🙂

Really! That’s another great tip. Thank you!!

I love Croatia, too, and your tips are great! Mljet, Krk and Pag are my favorite islands, and I adore Risnjak National Park which is further from the coast and not very well-known among foreigners.

I was laughing out loud when reading your first tip. Eastern Europe, hah. You’re right that most tourists call everything east of Germany Eastern Europe. As a Hungarian I can tell that Hungarians are also pissed off about it. 😀 Though I know there’s no bad intention behind this, people just don’t realize it’s a sensitive topic, and Central Europe and the Balkans are ethnically complex regions with a complicated history.

Why do you recommend G Adventures? I’ve been looking at loads of cruise options today, so now I’m curious before I go and book something! (P.S been following you for years, thanks for all the blogging you do!! It’s so helpful)

I’ve traveled with them and they do a great job. Good mix of adventure and culture on their tours, small group sizes, good prices for what they offer.

I completely agree that Split is an incredible destination worth visiting, and a 24-hour stay is more than sufficient to experience its magic. Since you mentioned Zadar, I have a fantastic recommendation for your readers: make sure you visit Zaton Beach. It’s a stunning sandy beach located just 13 km west of Zadar. The crystal-clear sea and well-maintained surroundings have earned it the prestigious Blue Flag award. At Zaton Beach, you can engage in various sports activities like tennis, volleyball, and mini-golf. Moreover, the beach is designed to accommodate individuals with disabilities, and it is an ideal spot for families with children who can enjoy the adjacent amusement parks, water slides, and restaurants.

Nice tips. Thank you!

As a Croat, we are Eastern Europe. Central Europe does not exist I’ve never personally met any Croats that don’t consider them self Eastern Europe. Must be the cities

Excellent info! We are planning a trip for April/May 2025 starting in Albania and ending in Vienna. I’m allocating 8 days for Croatia but open to adding a couple more. I’m thinking Dubrovnik (timed for non-cruise ship days), Korcula, Krck, Rovinj. We try to avoid crowds and I think it might be a bit cold for water activities. I would love your thoughts on how doable these 4 stops are is using public transport. This is our first visit to Croatia. We are also thinking about adding 3 nights for Mostar and Sarajevo. Not sure yet. We want to enjoy Slovenia before the crowds arrive.

If I were you, I’d remove Krk altogether. After Korcula you’ll travel through Split, so you could stop there easily as well. Korcula to Rovinj is a very long day by driving (I did Hvar to Rovinj which is similar) — I don’t think I’d want to do that by public transit.

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Travels with Erica

A Solo Traveller's Guide to the World

Solo Travel in Croatia: 9 Things to Know Before You Go

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Croatia is quickly becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Tourists are flocking to Croatia, but there are a few things you need to know about solo travel in Croatia before your trip.

Before we get too deep into this post, I figure I should let you know that Croatia is an amazing place to take a solo trip.

It is very welcoming to solo travellers and easy to navigate.

Even if you’re a first time solo travellers, you can confidentially book a solo trip to Croatia and know everything will go smoothly.

If you’re planning a solo backpacking trip to Europe and visiting multiple countries, Croatia is the prefect addition.

It is very different from the standard places like London and Paris that people book for their European vacations.

You get a different taste of Europe while still being able to easily travel around.

Plus Croatia is less expensive than Western Europe, so your wallet will enjoy the break as well!

While Croatia is a great place to add to your itinerary, there are still some things you need to know about solo travel in Croatia before you trip.

Lucky for you, I’m sharing everything I learned during my solo trip to Croatia, so you don’t make the same mistakes I did!

Tips for planning your first solo trip

Table of Contents

1. Don’t Skip Zagreb

When I was planning my first solo trip to Croatia, every blog I read told me to skip Zagreb because it wasn’t anything special.

Seriously! Every single blog about where to go in Croatia told me to skip Zagreb!

The only thing people said was worth visiting near Zagreb was Plitvice Lakes. So, visit the lakes and then get out of town was the message.

Thankfully, I didn’t listen to what I read on the internet and booked four days in Zagreb.

There were four of the best days I had in Croatia!

There is so much to do in Zagreb outside visiting Plitvice Lakes, and it is well worth taking the time to explore what the capital of Croatia has to offer.

My personal favourite attraction in Zagreb is the Museum of Broken Relationships .

I know it sounds odd, but it is actually a very moving museum and one of only three museums I’ve ever shed a tear in.

Zagreb is just so different from the other popular cities in Croatia, and no trip to Croatia is complete without visiting it in my opinion.

Most underrated cities in Europe

2. Explore More than Just the Old Towns

When you imagine Croatia, you probably imagine wandering through all the beautiful old towns the country has to offer.

The old towns are definitely some of the best parts of Croatia, but there are countless other things to do in Croatia that you should take the time to explore.

One of the best tips for solo travel in Croatia I can give you is to get outside the old towns and see what modern Croatia has to offer.

You won’t be disappointed, and you never know what you’ll stumble on.

There are museums, gardens, palaces, food markets, shopping centres, and everything else you could dream of visiting as a tourist.

Most people who visit Croatia focus on the old towns and ignore the rest of Croatia.

That is a huge mistake I don’t want you to make!

You miss out on the majority of the country and the true culture when you focus all your attention on the old towns and none of it on everything else.

Book an extra day or two in every city and get off the beaten track and explore the city you’re in.

3. Krka National Park > Plitvice Lakes

This may cause a little controversy, but if you only have time to visit one waterfall, I think it should be Krka National Park.

Excuse me while I duck in case you’re flinging something at me in anger after reading that.

In my opinion, Krka National Park is significantly underrated. Not many tourists visit it. You get more space to explore and enjoy the natural beauty without being crammed next to a bunch of tourists.

Plus, I think the falls at Krka National Park are simply nicer than the ones at Plitvice Lakes.

Of course, if you have time, you should visit both, but a lot of people don’t have time to visit both.

Krka National Park is a short bus ride away from Split, which is one of the best cities in Croatia. You can easily visit it as a day trip without any inconvenience.

I know it is a controversial thing to say in a post about solo travel in Croatia, but I said what I said, and I stand by it.

Don’t sleep on Krka National Park.

It is probably my favourite thing to do in Croatia, and you won’t regret visiting it on your solo trip to Croatia!

4. It is More Expensive than You Think

Croatia isn’t as expensive as other countries in Europe like Iceland , Denmark , and the UK , but it isn’t as cheap as you think it is either.

Without a doubt the thing that surprised me the most about solo travel in Croatia is that it was more expensive than I thought.

I had spent the last month in the Balkans in places like Bulgaria, Albania, and Macedonia, so I was used to very inexpensive travel.

It was a bit of a shock to arrive in Croatia and start having to pay more than I was used to.

Not that Croatia is terribly expensive, but it isn’t super budget friendly. With the rise of it’s popularity, it will likely only get more and more expensive as time goes on.

To give you an idea, visiting Croatia costs about the same as visiting Czechia, a little less than visiting Portugal, and 25% more than visiting Poland.

Group tours and popular tourist attractions are going to cost more because the country is becoming more popular.

It is still a good option for people backpacking Europe on a budget though.

You get to experience a new side of Europe, and it is a very easy travel experience. And if you’re coming from Western Europe, it will definitely feel like a budget experience!

I just wanted to give you a realistic budget for solo travel in Croatia. There is nothing worse than being misled by bloggers about how much a certain destination costs and then running out of money partway through your trip or not being able to experience everything you want to.

I’ve been there are number of times before and don’t want you to go through the same thing. Because it really sucks!

Tips for travelling alone for the first time

5. Don’t Rush Around the Country

One of the biggest mistakes travellers make is rushing through a trip and running from place to place without seeing anything.

I’m looking at you bus trips through Europe where you see 10 countries in 12 days.

This solo travel in Croatia tip goes back to the point I was making when I said visit more than just the old towns.

While it is tempting to only go to Dubrovnik or take an island hopping tour, that is so much more to Croatia that is worth exploring.

Spend a little longer in Croatia, get off the beaten track, and see what else the country has to offer than just Game of Thrones filming locations and party islands.

Explore the history, the museums, the food, the modern side of the country.

If you have a week to spend in Croatia, only visit two cities rather than three cities and go on an island tour.

Travel isn’t about rushing around, getting a photo everywhere you go, and bragging about how many places you’ve been.

Travel should be about experiencing something new, learning, and growing as a person.

Taking the time to really explore Croatia is especially important for solo travellers. If you’re introverted and anxious like me, it is a good idea to book an extra night or two in each city in case you need to get away and go back to your hotel early.

If you’re extroverted, you may meet people in Croatia and want to spend extra time with them exploring.

No matter your travel style, you won’t regret not rushing through Croatia and actually getting to experience the beautiful country.

6. It is Super Easy to Get Around

No matter your experience level travelling alone, Croatia is a great choice.

It is super easy to travel around the country using public transportation, and once you’re in a city, you can normally walk anywhere you want to go.

If you’re nervous about solo travel in Croatia, don’t be. English is widely spoken, and people are super willing to help you out if you get lost or need advice on what bus to take.

Croatia has an extensive bus network that will get you anywhere you need to go.

The buses are super affordable and run throughout the day. Just be sure to check the departure schedule before you show up at the bus station.

The one important thing to know about public transportation in Croatia is that it doesn’t always run on time.

When I was travelling between Dubrovnik and Split, the bus was running about an hour behind.

I knew what time the bus was supposed to arrive in Split, but the bus station we arrived at during that time didn’t look right. I asked the bus driver if it was Split, and he said no, so I stayed on the bus.

My top tip for taking the bus between cities anywhere in the world is open Google maps before you leave you accommodation and have access to wifi and keep it running in the background.

The blue dot tracking where you are keeps moving and tracking you even when you’re not connected to the internet.

Keep an eye on the blue dot and get off when it says you’re in the city you want to be at.

This is a lifesaver in situations where there aren’t announcements about where you arrived at, and the bus is running late.

You don’t want to get off at the wrong stop and be stuck in a completely different city!

7. Croatia is Extremely Safe (Even for Solo Female Travellers)

Before I visited Croatia in 2015, I heard some misconceptions about the country. Some of the older people in my life were saying it was dangerous to visit Croatia because there were land mines from the Bosnian War.

Well, I went to Croatia anyways and quickly found out Croatia is safe for solo travellers.

Including solo female travellers.

There wasn’t a single moment where I felt unsafe on my solo trip to Croatia. Even when I was walking out and about alone in the evening in the dark.

I felt comfortable, confident, and secure everywhere I went in Croatia.

Safety is not something you have to consider when deciding whether or not to partake in solo travel in Croatia.

It is 100% safe.

Of course, anywhere is as safe as you make it. Something could still happen if you’re not engaging in safe behaviour.

But, for the average solo traveller, it is completely safe to visit Croatia!

Top benefits of travelling alone

8. You Don’t Have to Island Hop to Experience Croatia

A lot of what you see about Croatia on social media is island hopping. People on boats having an amazing time.

Island hopping is definitely part of Croatia, but you don’t need to island hop to experience Croatia.

If you’re like me and don’t like water or socializing, your solo trip to Croatia may not include island hopping. And that’s perfectly okay!

Don’t feel like you have to island hop during solo travel in Croatia.

You can having an amazing trip to Croatia without stepping on a boat or visiting an island.

Your solo trip to Croatia should be what you want it to be not what you think it has to be based on what other people are doing.

Plus, island hopping can get quite expensive (especially as a solo traveller), and you may not have the budget for it.

For me, I would choose visiting Zagreb over island hopping any day of the week.

But the choice is yours!

Make sure you’re having the trip of your dreams and do what suits your personality and interests best.

9. Visit Dubrovnik Old Town in the Morning or Evening

This isn’t just a tip for solo travel in Croatia but travel in Croatia in general.

Old Town Dubrovnik is absurdly busy basically all year around now.

It is packed wall to wall with tourists hunting Game of Thrones filming locations, and it can feel claustrophobic at times.

Shoulder to shoulder with other tourists.

If you want to get the most out of Old Town Dubrovnik, it is best to visit it either first thing in the morning before the rest of the tourists are up for the day or in the evening after dinner.

It will still be busy, but it will be significantly less busy than it is during the height of the day. You’ll be able to wander the old town without feeling rushed by the crowds.

You’ll also be able to snag one of those Instagram pictures on the stairs between the old buildings that are so popular nowadays!

If you do visit Old Town Dubrovnik at the height of day, consider doing things that most other tourist aren’t doing.

There are a number of small, hidden museums throughout the old town that many tourists don’t even know exist.

You can purchase a pass to all the old town museums and explore then while the rest of the tourists are exploring the more touristy things to do in the old town.

The same suggestion of visiting the old town during off-peak times applies to every other old town in Croatia.

They just aren’t as busy, so it isn’t as necessary as it is in Dubrovnik.

Click here and use code TRAVELSWITHERICA for 10% my favourite Instagram presets!

The Importance of Internet Safety While Travelling Alone

Everybody talks about physical safety when travelling alone but not enough people talk about the importance of internet safety.

Internet safety is so important when travelling.

You rely on public wifi networks to access the internet, and that leaves your online data, information, and privacy at real risk of being stolen.

And, yes, a hotel or restaurant wifi network with a passcode is still considered a public wifi network since anybody and everybody can get access to the password.

As a solo traveller, it is extra important you take precautions to keep your online information safe.

You’re all alone, and you don’t have anybody to help you if your information is stolen.

What are you going to do if your banking information is stolen, and you have to shut down your credit cards and debit card?

You don’t have a travel companion who can lend you money. You’re all alone and have to figure a way out of a bad situation.

Everybody who travels should take internet safety seriously.

The only way you can be safe and secure while using a public wifi network is by installing a VPN on your devices.

A VPN essentially puts a forcefield around your devices and makes using public wifi as safe as using your home wifi where you’re the only person who knows the password.

Not being internet safe isn’t worth the risk!

My Favourite VPN

As you can probably imagine, I’ve used a lot of different VPN providers during my many years of solo travel.

Time after time I ended up cancelling my VPN subscription after the first year. VPNs are known to slow your devices down, and I would get so frustrated at how slow my internet was that I’d stop using the VPN altogether and put myself at risk.

That all changed when I discovered NordVPN .

NordVPN is the fastest VPN on the market, and that’s why I recommend them to travel lovers.

You get the best of both worlds.

Your devices are protected, but your internet isn’t slowed down.

In my mind, there is no excuse not to install NordVPN on your devices. It costs less than the price of a latte per month, and you can install it on up to six devices.

The peace of mind you get knowing your online information and privacy is protected is worth every single penny (and many pennies more).

My philosophy is that if you can afford to travel, you can afford to protect your online information!

If you’re on the fence about whether solo travel in Croatia is right for you or not, I hope this is the sign you needed to know that it likely is!

Croatia is an amazing country, and nobody I know has ever regretted visiting it.

It is a unique mixture of architecture, history, museums, nature, and modern culture. It is impossible to find anywhere else like it!

Just be sure you keep the tips and tricks included in this post in mind on your solo trip to Croatia.

They’ll help you have the best trip possible and get the most out of your holiday to Croatia!

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I Spent a Month in Croatia—Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

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So,  I’m traveling for a year . As part of this whirlwind adventure, my husband and I recently spent 36 days in Croatia. Many people asked if the country “had enough” to warrant a month-long trip. I always remarked yes, despite not being certain at the time. But now that I’ve done it, I can assure you there’s plenty to see and do. The crescent-shaped country may seem small, but it’s packed with pristine beaches, centuries-old landmarks and delicious food. Here’s a rundown of everything you need to know before visiting this beautiful Balkan nation..

RELATED 19 DESTINATIONS TO VISIT BEFORE EVERYONE HEARS ABOUT THEM

1. ‘Hvala’ Means Thank You

When traveling to a new place, I think it’s essential to learn how to say a few basic words. This shows you’re making an effort, even if you don’t speak the language. I got through simple exchanges with molim (please) and hvala (thank you). 

2. There Are Four Main Regions

Croatia is divided into four main regions that reflect the history and culture. Croatia proper encompasses much of inland Croatia—basically Zagreb and the surrounding territories. Located in the northwest of the country, Istria is the triangular peninsula that’s bordered by Slovenia and the Adriatic Sea. Arguably the most underrated region, Slavonia comprises the easternmost portion of Croatia. Dalmatia covers the southern part of the country and includes many holiday hot spots (e.g., Split, Hvar and Dubrovnik).

3. ...AND MORE THAN A THOUSAND ISLANDS

It’s not a coincidence that island hopping is so marketable in Croatia. From isles connected to the mainland by bridges (hello, Krk) to uninhabited atolls, there are more than a thousand islands along the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea.

4. PLUS, GORGEOUS NATIONAL PARKS

UNESCO-protected Plitvice Lakes National Park offers alpine forests, rugged hiking trails and crystalline pools. Situated 15 minutes from Sibenik, waterfall-studded Krka National Park stands among the most accessible choices for nature lovers. Both are unbelievably picturesque and popular tourist attractions. It’s vital to buy tickets online well in advance. Otherwise, you’ll end up waiting in a long line and risk the chance of not being permitted to enter.

5. Expect (Mostly) Rocky Beaches

Sand tends to be a main component of any good beach, right? That may be the case in the U.S., but Croatia doesn’t follow such a limited definition. It has many pebbly coves and jagged rocks that jut into the Adriatic Sea. On that note, investing in aqua socks might not be a bad idea.

6. It’s a Bargain (Most of the Time)

Croatia is affordable. After gallivanting around Stockholm and Copenhagen, I was happy to give my wallet a rest. Beer and fresh-caught fish won’t set you back more than a few bucks at local joints, so you can definitely stay on budget. Not everything is a steal, though—particularly if you want to do  private boat excursions  and dine at high-end restaurants. Also, the time of year you visit definitely plays a role in the price. We ended up paying higher summer rates. For example, an Airbnb that would cost $68 during other times of the year spikes to $150 during peak season. Something to keep in mind.

7. Cash Is King

Ready for some sage wisdom? Always carry kuna. Whether you’re in a major city or a remote village, having cash will make things a heck of a lot easier.

8. You Need to Drive a Stick Shift

Croatia doesn’t have a well-connected railway system, so buses are really the only option in terms of public transport. From my experience in northern and central Croatia, renting a car is your best bet. FYI, unless you request and confirm availability of an automatic whip in advance, you’ll definitely end up with a stick shift—which is what happened to us. Luckily, my husband knows how to drive a manual and I’m an excellent passenger.

9. Ferries Are Your Best Bet in Dalmatia

Once you get into Dalmatia, a car begins to be a bit of a burden as it limits the vessels you are able to take. Remember the name  Jadrolinij a , because this ferry operator is going to be your best friend. Be sure to research schedules and book tickets in advance.

10. What to Eat

Culinary traditions vary depending on the region. Ruling empires and neighboring countries have left their mark too. You can definitely taste the Italian influence in Istria with all the pizza, pasta, gnocchi, truffles, cured ham and seafood. Dalmatia cuisine is very Mediterranean. Think lots of grilled fish, olive oil and vegetables. If you find yourself in Hvar, definitely try gregada, a traditional soup made with cod. On the heartier side of things, the food in Croatia proper leans more toward meat and potatoes, while paprika and pork are staples of Slavonian fare.

11. Where to Stay

Overall, we had a ton of luck with Airbnbs. My three favorites were our cute studio in Rovinj , cool duplex in Zadar and recently refurbished flat in Split . Not only is renting an apartment a good way to stick to your budget, but it feels really homey and also gives you the freedom to cook. Though we did splurge toward the end of our trip with overnights at Palace Elisabeth , a new five-star property in Hvar, and Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik .

12. Best Things to Do

You’ll probably fly into Zagreb, as it’s the biggest airport in Croatia. Have a free day to kill? Check out the  Museum of Broken Relationships  and the colorfully tiled roof of St. Mark’s Church. In terms of cities, I honestly preferred Split. Besides visiting Diocletian’s Palace, it’s a great starting point for excursions to the Blue Lagoon and  island hopping . On the Dalmatia leg of our journey, we did a mix of sunset cocktails in Hvar, blissing out on the beaches of Brac, exploring sea caves off the coast of Vis and wine tasting in Korčula. 

13. When to Visit

Zagreb is a major city, so you can do all the urban activities any time of year. It empties out during summer. As the thermometer rises, everyone flocks to Istria and Dalmatia. Of course, going in peak season has its positives and negatives. The weather is amazing for sunning, swimming and sailing. That said, it’s prime for tourists. Ultimately, it’s a matter of what’s more important to you—boat days or sightseeing without the crowds. Would I personally do another summer getaway to Croatia? Absolutely.

14. Tourism Is on the Rise

As you’ve gathered by now, Game of Thrones didn’t just shine a light on Dubrovnik. By extension, it brought selfie-snapping mobs to the entire country. I anticipated tourists in the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” but was truly shocked by how packed it was in formerly less-frequented places like Trogir and Zadar. My advice? Go soon before Croatia reaches the stardom level of the Amalfi Coast or Greece. How to Travel the Croatian Islands Like a Millionaire (on a Plebeian Budget)

Lindsay's Must-Haves in Croatia

Avi stripe sleeveless cover-up tunic dress.

Mara Ribbed One-Piece Swimsuit

Freelance PureWow Editor

The Cost of Travel in Croatia: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

After 12 years of travel and over 90 countries, I’ve come to the conclusion that Croatia is one of the most underrated travel destinations on the planet.

I’m slightly biased, of course.

When I first decided to set off on my round-the-world adventure, I decided Croatia would be the very first country on my itinerary.

It was an unusual choice, I know. Most travellers set off for Bangkok, London, Sydney, or Beijing to kickstart their gap years, but something about Eastern Europe fascinated me. I wanted to explore some of the lesser-visited parts of the continent in which I was born, and Croatia sounded like the perfect place to start.

It’s since held a special place in my heart as the destination that helped me gain my travel footing, and I immediately fell deeply in love with it.

What’s not to love? 

You’ve got gorgeous architecture to snap photos of, hundreds of islands to explore, the spectacular Plitvice National Park to wander around, underrated Zagreb for a city break, and some of the best beaches in the world. There are opportunities to sail the coastline, surprisingly fantastic cheese to eat, lovely locals, and so many beautiful landscapes that it’s hard to believe one country can offer up so much.

I originally planned to spend two weeks travelling around Croatia for my first visit, but after falling in love with the country, I quickly extended my stay to a full month. I hit up Dubrovnik, Split, Brac, Zadar, Pag, Zagreb, Plitvice, and Crikvenica over that time, and easily could have spent longer if I didn’t already have a flight to the other side of the world to catch.

I’ve since returned twice more to Croatia, and every time I do, I realise just how underrated a country it is.

I’ve been recording every single cent I spend in the countries I visit from day one of my travels because I want to prove that seeing the world is inexpensive and achievable. I want to be able to give a realistic and accurate look at how much you can expect to spend in each country you visit.

Today, it’s Croatia’s turn. I visited Croatia first of all as a solo backpacker, and then secondly and thirdly, as part of a couple on a mid-range budget. My costs have gone up during that time, both because my travel style changed and due to rising prices in general. Even so, as long as you’re not visiting in the height of peak season, Croatia still isn’t a crazy-expensive destination.

(As of the start of last year, Croatia adopted the Euro — not the Kuna — as its currency).

Here’s how much you can expect to spend on a trip to Croatia in 2024.

How to Save Money on Flights to/From Croatia

My European readers won’t have to worry too much about the cost of flights to Croatia, as the wide range of budget airlines means finding something affordable is never too much of a problem. As always, I recommend heading to Skyscanner  to snag yourself a bargain.

If you’re flexible with dates and itinerary, you’ll find the best deals by searching to flights to “Croatia” rather than an individual city, as you may find it’s far cheaper to fly into Zagreb over Dubrovnik, for example. It’s also worth setting your flight departure date to be across an entire month, which you can do with Skyscanner . This will show you the cheapest dates to fly and ensure you have the very best deal possible.

In general, you’ll find that it’s cheapest to fly to Croatia outside of high season, which coincides with typical European summer vacation dates (late June to late August). May and September are the shoulder season months, and October to March is the official low season, where you’ll find the lowest prices.

If you do have the freedom to visit during shoulder season, I highly recommend it, as it’ll mean spending less on flights and accommodation while having to deal with fewer tourists. Shoulder season is my favourite time of year to travel, and it’s worth making the effort to do so in Croatia.

What if you’re not European?

Well, unfortunately, there are only a handful of direct flights between North America and Croatia — you can fly from Newark to Dubrovnik — but that doesn’t mean you’ll have to spend an enormous amount of cash in order to get there.

Fortunately, getting to Europe from North America is surprisingly cheap these days, and I wouldn’t expect you’d need to pay more than around $400 for a return ticket. Allow me to introduce you to one of my favourite websites in the world: Secret Flying ! I’d estimate that 80% of the flights I book these days are due to a deal I’ve found on Secret Flying.

Once you’ve booked your flight to Europe, you’ll need to figure out how to get to Croatia for cheap, but that’s when Skyscanner comes back in! Europe is full of cheap airlines and getting from country to country is nearly always easy and inexpensive.

How to Save Money on Accommodation in Croatia

As always with travel, it’s possible to cut your accommodation costs down to zero if you have the time and patience to seek out an offer.

Free Accommodation

Couchsurfing exists in Croatia, and allows you to stay with a local for free, sleeping on their sofa and gaining their insight into life in their country. It’s not the most comfortable of living situations, but if your budget is tight, it’s worth sending out a few requests to hosts to see if anything comes of it. You can search for potential hosts on the site .

Housesitting is another option. This is where you’ll take care of somebody’s house for free while they’re away, and usually look after their pets, too. It’s best for long-term travellers or retirees as you can’t pick and choose dates and destinations, so you need to have a lot of flexibility as to where you go and at what time of year. If you do have that freedom, it’s a wonderful way to cut down your travel expenses, soak up some home comforts, and live like a local for a while — I’ve even have friends who have landed housesitting gigs in a castle! Trusted Housesitters is my favorite site for finding housesits — it’s definitely worth taking a look to see if any listings match with your dates.

And finally, if you’re travelling long-term and don’t mind getting your fingers dirty, you could look at WWOOFing  or WorkAway as a way to cut down your costs while working on a farm in exchange for accommodation and food. It’s not the most glamorous of travel, but getting to live for free in a foreign country is an incredible experience, so if you’re backpacking around Europe, this may be the way forward for you.

Affordable Accommodation

I’m suspecting, though, that for most of you, you’re not interested in the free accommodation and just want somewhere clean, safe, and affordable to rest your head each night. If that’s the case, there are several options available for you.

The first of these are hostels . In Croatia, you’ll come across hostels all over the country, finding them on tiny islands, in large cities, and even in the national parks. They’re one of your best options for saving money.

Hostels in Croatia are slightly cheaper than equivalents in Western Europe, with the big exception being Dubrovnik over the summer, which is eye-wateringly expensive. You can expect to spend around €20-25 for a dorm bed in most spots in Croatia, with the price increasing to €30-40 a night on the popular islands, national parks, and more tourist-filled areas.

When it comes to private rooms in hostels, you can expect to spend around €60 a night for a clean, basic room in a good location, so if you’re travelling with friends or with your partner, you may find there’s not much in it if you’d prefer a little privacy over settling for two beds in a dorm room.

If you’re an older traveller and put off by the thought of nights spent in hostels, you shouldn’t be! Private rooms are usually very quiet and clean, and most hostels are modern, safe, and centrally located. They tend to have a little more personality than generic hotels, and the staff are fantastic at offering kickass travel advice. As long as you check the reviews of any hostel before booking it to make sure nobody refers to it as a party hostel, you’re all good to make a booking there.

I use HostelWorld to find the cheapest hostels, as they tend to have the greatest number of listings at the lowest prices.

And, of course, there are always hotels and apartments, which will usually cost around €70-€100 a night for a decent, clean, mid-range property in a central location in shoulder season. I always use Booking , as they have the most accommodation options for the cheapest prices.

The Best Hostels and Guesthouses in Croatia

As I mentioned above, I’ve visited Croatia during various stages of my travel career, both as a solo backpacker who was travelling on a shoestring budget and as part of a couple that was looking for all things private and mid-range. I’ve learned a lot about how to travel affordably through this country in the process.

I always like to share which accommodation I stayed in on my travels, as well as recommend alternatives when mine sucked. Everywhere I recommend below has excellent reviews and offers great value for money. On my most recent two-week trip around Croatia, I followed this itinerary:

Dubrovnik: 3 nights Split: 3 nights Zadar: 3 nights Plitvice: 2 nights Zagreb: 3 nights

Here’s my list of my favourite accommodation options in Croatia, listed in Euros:

Dubrovnik —  Apartments Sv.Jakov (€145 a night) : There’s two things you need to know about accommodation in Dubrovnik. The first is that it’s expensive, and the second is that staying inside the old town is extremely expensive. The good news is that Apartments Sv.Jakov solves both of those problems by being both affordable and accessible to the centre of town (a 15 minute walk from your room). But not only that, it also has one of the best views in the entire city and some of the best reviews of any property. Throw one of the friendliest owners in the country in the mix and you can see why I’m gushing its praises. This is an excellent option for Dubrovnik.

Split —   Apartment Citadela (€110 a night) : Split is full of expensive hotels. In fact, you’ll struggle to find a stay in one for under €200 a night. I recommend Apartment Citadel because it’s half the price of the hotels, receives incredible reviews, and right in the heart of town — it’s a truly fantastic location! And you’ll have access to a kitchen, too, to help you save money on meals.

Zadar —  Harvey’s Luxury Rooms (€55 a night) : This is a no-brainer when it comes to accommodation in Zadar! It’s inexpensive, in the centre of the old town, close to tons of excellent restaurants (I recommend Kantuna), and a super-accommodating owner. With some seriously nice furniture providing decoration in the rooms as an added bonus, you really can’t go wrong.

Plitvice Lakes National Park —  Lake House   (€55 a night) : I loved both of my stays at Lake House in Plitvice Lakes National Park and have sent so many of my readers there since visiting! I chose this place because it’s easily the best-rated accommodation that’s close to the park, and it’s pretty affordable too. It didn’t disappoint. You’ll likely spend most of your time walking in the park, but when you’re at the house, you’ll be greeted by lovely staff, presented with a filling breakfast, and marvel at the fresh air. That’s one of my lasting memories of the area Lake House is in: how peaceful the surroundings were, and how healing the clean air felt.

Zagreb — Embassy Row B&B (€160 a night) : It’s rare to check out the reviews of accommodation and find yourself greeted with a wall of 10 out of 10s, but that’s exactly what drew me to Embassy Row B&B. If there’s a better spot in Zagreb, I’d be seriously surprised. What I love about this place is the lavish, fresh breakfast, the great location, and the wonderful owner. Nadia is kind, friendly, welcoming, and only too eager to give recommendations on how to make the most of your time in the city. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else.

How to Save Money on Transportation in Croatia

Transportation is fairly inexpensive in Croatia, so you won’t need to worry about it upping your travel budget by too much. The best, easiest, and cheapest way to travel around the country is by bus or ferry.

Domestic buses will take you pretty to much anywhere you need them to, and are fast, comfortable, and modern. You can expect your ride to come with power sockets and Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and large, spacious seats, making it a no-brainer to go for the bus over anything else.

If you book your bus tickets in advance through Arriva , you can save 5% on the price of your ticket by using the app, and not have to worry about the bus being full.

If you’re anything like me, though, you can’t imagine visiting Croatia and not  spending time on some of its gorgeous islands (my personal favourites are Brac and Pag). In this case, you’re going to want to hop on a ferry to get from the mainland to paradise. You can find a map of the ferry routes on CroatiaFerries  — and most ferries run at least once a day in peak season.

Keep in mind that if you’re going to be renting a car in Croatia, you’ll pay quite a bit extra to take it on the ferries, so it may work out cheaper for you to find somewhere to park for free before heading to the islands on foot. On average, you can expect to pay €15-20 a day to hire a small car in Croatia depending on the time of year and where you collect it from.

When it comes to hiring a car to drive around Croatia, you shouldn’t feel intimidated. Even my parents managed a two-week road trip around the country without any hassle, and said it was a far more peaceful experience than driving in nearby Italy! I always hire a car through Discover Cars : a comparison search engine that brings up the best deals from all the popular providers; I always seem to score the cheapest deals through their site!

As always, you’ll have far more independence if you decide to drive through Croatia, as you’ll be able to stop off whenever you feel like it, take detours to tiny villages, and stop at spectacular viewpoints to take photos whenever you want. This is a country that rewards those who venture off the beaten track, and hiring a car is the easiest way to do so.

Parking is going to be your main issue when it comes to driving in Croatia. Many of the popular tourist destinations are pedestrianised, so you may find yourself driving around for half an hour in search of a parking space. If you’re happy to park up at your accommodation and then take public transport or walk, you’ll have a much easier time of it.

You can also hire scooters in Croatia, so if you’re competent on two wheels, you may want to opt for this instead! You’ll pay less to hire them and won’t find parking as difficult either.

Flying is typically expensive and time-consuming, so you’ll want to skip out on that if at all possible. You’ll save money and see a lot more of the country by travelling overland.

Here are some of the typical transportation costs you can expect to run into while in Croatia:

• Bus from Dubrovnik to Split: €22,10
• Bus from Zagreb to Zadar: €11,90
• Bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes: €14,90
• Bus from Zagreb to Pula: €26,20
• Ferry from Dubrovnik to Hvar: €45 
• Ferry from Dubrovnik to Brac: €45
• Ferry from Split to Brac: €20

How to Save Money on Food in Croatia

Food can be expensive in Croatia, but there are plenty of ways to cut costs while you travel around this beautiful country.

Cooking is always going to be more affordable than eating out, so if you’re willing to sacrifice some restaurant meals on your vacation, this is a great way to keep on track with your budget. Hostels will usually give you access to a shared kitchen, and if you’re opting for an apartment, check that it has a kitchen and at least basic cooking facilities. If that’s the case, you can head to a local market (a great cultural experience) and stock up on fish, vegetables, and fruits, to spend far less on your meals than you would at a restaurant.

Many hotels offer free or discounted breakfasts, so if that’s the case, I always recommend eating later in the morning and eating a lot of food, as you may find you’re too full to have lunch. If that’s not the case, then I recommend going for a larger lunch and a smaller dinner.

Most restaurants charge less for their lunch menus, even though they’re serving the exact same meal for lunch and dinner. If you can eat a bigger meal for lunch, you can then get by with a much smaller one for dinner and save money through doing so.

In general, you should expect to spend the following on each meal:

Breakfast:   €6.50  each for bacon and eggs;  €9-11  each for something in a hipster cafe.

What can you expect from breakfasts in Croatia? If you’re looking for something cheap and simple, you can’t go wrong with pašteta (pate) on bread. Bread and spreads are commonplace in the country, whether it’s margarine, the aforementioned pate, cheese, jam or Nutella. Often, these will be accompanied by cold cuts of meat, such as ham, prosciutto, and salami.

In cafes, you’ll regularly be able to pick up some burek, a savoury pastry containing meat, cheese, or vegetables. Pair it with a serving of yoghurt and you’ve got yourself a traditional Croatian breakfast!

Beyond that, you’ll be able to find those standard omelettes, oatmeal, full English breakfasts, and croissants that you can get across the continent, either served up in your accommodation or up for grabs in a cafe in town.

Lunch: €7  each for a sandwich/slice of pizza from a deli with a soft drink

Lunches in Croatia can be delicious and large. Croatians prefer to have a larger meal for lunch and a smaller portion of food for dinner, so loosen up those waistbands and prepare yourself for a true feast! You’ll typically kick things off with some soup to start, then follow that up with some slow-roasted meat, which is practically guaranteed to be so tender that it’s falling off the bone, accompanied by potatoes and vegetables.

Dinner: €15  each if you’re on a budget,  €25  each for a mid-range restaurant,  €50+  each for something higher-end.

One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll often be given freshly-baked bread, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar with lunches and dinner in Croatia, so you should aim to take full advantage of this. Seriously — this was one of my culinary highlights from Croatia. Most of the time it was free with the meal and so ridiculously tasty.

What about tipping? In most restaurants you’ll frequent, tipping will be welcome but not in any way expected. So don’t panic — it isn’t seen as offensive if you don’t tip! And likewise, it won’t be viewed as offensive if you do. Expect to pay 10-15% in any fancy restaurants you head to, but anything laidback and local won’t require you to pay extra.

I don’t often have much success with this suggestion, but I do recommend keeping an eye on your drink consumption while travelling in Croatia. Alcohol is obviously a big budget buster on the road (and Croatian wines can be quite pricey in restaurants), so if you’re happy to substitute the sodas, juices, and booze for tap water, you’ll save a ton of money. And yes, the tap water is free and safe to drink in Croatia, so you really don’t need to worry about buying bottled water.

If you’re determined to jump headfirst into the Croatian food scene and don’t want to spend your vacation cooking, you should look to eat at the konobas and pizzerias as opposed to the fancier restaurants.

Konobas are small family-run restaurants that offer big dishes and low prices, and sometimes even family-made wine. If in doubt, avoid anywhere with white tablecloths and a big English menu outside, because that means it’s set up for tourists and charging more. Delis are great options for lunches, as they offer sandwiches for low prices.

You can always ask the locals for food recommendations, too! Ask at your accommodation for recommendations on the best budget eats, or simply walk around and see which restaurants are full of locals. In the case of the more tourist-filled cities, like Dubrovnik, you’ll find that just walking a couple of blocks outside of the Old Town is all you need to do to find cheaper prices in restaurants.

Here are some typical prices of food and drink in Croatia to help you budget better:

• Pint of draught beer:  €3-5
• A bottle of house wine in a restaurant:  €23-50
• A slice of pizza: €2.50-5
• Sandwich from a deli for lunch: €3-5
• A 30 cm pizza for dinner: €8-15
• Seafood dish in a fancy restaurant:  €30-50
• Cappuccino in an expat area of town:  €2-3
• Litre of milk:  €1-1.50
• A loaf of bread:  €1.50-2.50
• 10 eggs:  €2.50-3.50
• 1 kilogram of tomatoes:  €2-3.50
• 1 kilogram of potatoes:  €0.80-1.40
• A 1.5l bottle of water:  €0.90
• A risotto for lunch:  €12-20
• A steak dinner: €20-30
• Famous Croatian lamb from the spit: €15-30
• A gyros for lunch:  €5-8
• A local meal from a konobos for dinner with wine: €20-35 each
• A three course meal and wine in a high-end restaurant in Dubrovnik:  €70-100+

How to Save Money on Activities in Croatia

We’ve covered accommodation, transportation, and food, but let’s face it: you’re not going to have the trip of a lifetime if you skip out on entrance fees and activities! Here’s a detailed breakdown of some of the costs you’re likely to encounter while travelling around Croatia. Note that prices for many attractions go up a lot during peak season: I’ve given a range where that’s the case.

• Walking the city walls in Dubrovnik: € 15-35
• Entrance to Plitvice Lakes National Park: € 10-40
• Entrance to Krka Waterfalls National Park: € 7-40
• A Game of Thrones-themed walking tour in Dubrovnik: € 25
• Entrance to Pula’s amphitheatre : € 10
• Sea kayak tour at sunset with snack and wine in Dubrovnik: € 45
• A day trip to Montenegro from Dubrovnik: € 60
• Skip-the-line entrance to the Museum of Broken Relationships in Zagreb: € 7

If you’re in Split for a few days, be sure to grab a free SplitCard from a tourist information centre. Visitors staying five or more nights in summer, or two or more nights in winter, are entitled to the card for free, and get discounts on everything from museums and galleries to excursions and restaurants.

If some of the above prices are just too much, there are plenty of free activities in Croatia as well. I know that I had a fantastic time simply wandering through the old towns, exploring local markets, sunbathing on beaches, and making the most of the museums that don’t charge for entrance.

While, for example, you’ll get a great view of Dubrovnik by walking the city walls, you could be just as satisfied by walking the streets of the old town, as it’s as beautiful from the ground as it is from above. If you love beaches, you’ll save money on activities by lounging out on the sand/pebbles rather than jumping on a banana boat or hiring some snorkelling gear.

Markets are always a great way to get a taste of the local culture without spending any money, and simply heading out for a stroll through some of the more local neighbourhoods will introduce you to lesser-visited parts of the country. Yes, if you’re looking to save money on activities, my biggest recommendation is to walk everywhere — Croatia is so beautiful that there’s always something wonderful to see.

If, like me, you love taking tours to get to know a country better, I recommend heading to Get Your Guide for inspiration — it’s where I book all of the tours I take. They have a whole range of activities and tours available, like  day trips to Bosnia  ( € 82 ) or Slovenia  ( € 120 ) to boost your country count, a Game of Thrones tour in Split  ( € 35 ), and an island-hopping trip to five Croatian islands ( € 105 ).

Miscellaneous Items to Buy for a Trip to Croatia

A Croatia guidebook : A guidebook will give you an in-depth look into Croatia’s culture, suggest the perfect itineraries for the amount of time you have, and offer recommendations for where to eat and what’s worth doing. I like Lonely Planet guidebooks, and have a wide selection sitting in my bookcase as I write this!

A dry bag :  Croatia is all about the water, so I highly recommend packing  a dry bag  to take with you. A dry bag has saved me while travelling on so many occasions:

• On a kayaking trip from Koh Yao Noi to Koh Nok, a freak wave splashed over me, as well as my camera and phone. Had I not had them in a dry bag, the water damage would have likely destroyed them.
• On a ferry ride in Thailand, the boat sprung a leak and began to sink. I was able to put my laptop, camera, hard drive, passport, and money in my dry bag, seal it up, and know that they’d stay safe and dry if the worst were to happen.
• I chartered a yacht in Greece and relied heavily on my dry bag while I was there. When mooring in tiny bays, I was able to fill my dry bag with my camera, towel, and sunscreen, jump in the sea, and swim to the nearest empty beach without worrying about keeping my belongings dry.
• I also think dry bags are fantastic for solo travellers on beach days. It’s tough going to the beach when you’re travelling alone because you’ll need to bring nothing with you, risk getting robbed while you’re in the ocean, or stay on the sand at all times. If you have a dry bag, you can fill it up with your valuables and take it for a swim with you, rather than leaving them on your towel and hoping nobody will grab them.

I love all things Sea to Summit, and after trying several of their dry bags out, my champion is the  Ultra-Sil 8L  — it’s durable, thin, lightweight, and has never let me down.

Travel insurance: If you’ve read any other posts on Never Ending Footsteps, you’ll know that I’m a great believer in travelling with travel insurance. I’ve seen far too many Go Fund Me campaigns from destitute backpackers that are unexpectedly stranded in a foreign country after a scooter accident/being attacked/breaking a leg with no way of getting home or paying for their healthcare. These costs can quickly land you with a six-figure bill to pay at the end of it.

In short, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.

Travel insurance  will cover you if your flight is cancelled and you need to book a new one, if your luggage gets lost and you need to replace your belongings, if you suddenly get struck down by appendicitis and have to be hospitalised, or discover a family member has died and you need to get home immediately. If you fall seriously ill, your insurance will cover the costs to fly you home to receive medical treatment.

I use  SafetyWing  as my travel insurance provider, and recommend them for trips to Croatia. Firstly, they’re one of the few companies out there who will actually cover you if you contract COVID-19. On top of that, they provide worldwide coverage, don’t require you to have a return ticket, and even allow you to buy coverage after you’ve left home. If you’re on a long-term trip, you can pay monthly instead of up-front, and can cancel at any time. Finally, they’re way cheaper than the competition, and have a clear, easy-to-understand pricing structure, which is always appreciated.

With SafetyWing, you’ll pay  €1.50 a day  for travel insurance.

SIM cards and eSIMs : Assuming that you’re like me and want to have a working phone as soon as you arrive (did you even go to Dubrovnik if you can’t send photos of it to everyone you know?), you’ll want to buy an eSIM before leaving home.

I use aloSIM these days: prices are good and I’ve found their speeds to be faster than the other companies I’ve used. It costs $15 (€14) for 5GB of data that lasts a month, or $24 (€22) for 10GB, and you get a 5% discount by using the code FOOTSTEPS.

If your phone can’t use eSIMs, a tourist SIM card with unlimited data from T-HT costs €10 for ten days. If you’re staying longer, a card with 70GB of data that lasts for a month is €11.95 . You’ll need to find a phone store in whichever city you arrive in to buy them, though: they’re not available at the airports.

Don’t forget that if you live in another EU country, you should be able to roam for free with your normal phone company.

How Much it Costs to Travel in Croatia

I always like to share my own personal expenses when travelling in a country, as I think it helps you figure out what you should be expecting to pay each day while you’re there. A list of expenses is great and helpful, of course, but putting them all together in order to come up with a reasonable estimate can be trickier.

Because prices have risen recently in Croatia, I’m only using the costs from my most recent trip. Here’s what I spent!

Accommodation: €109 per day  (shared between two = €54.50 each) Transportation: €9 per day Food: €34 per day Activities: €36 per day

My average daily cost of travel in Croatia is therefore: €133.50 per day .

Related Articles on Croatia 🧳 How to Pack for a Trip to Croatia ☀️ 30 Incredible Things to Do in Dubrovnik, Croatia 🇭🇷 20 Best Things to Do in Zagreb, Croatia

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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82 comments.

Dude, this guide is fantastic!

If I were there, I would have a really hard time leaving! I understand why you extended your initial trip by a few weeks.

Right?! The longer I spent in Croatia, the more I wanted to see. You could spend months just travelling up and down the coastline.

Hello! I do not think that this is nice: ‘I usually recommend not staying in an entire Airbnb apartment’. You should know, that most of the people on the coast and on the Islands, live from renting apartments, from 30 euro and up and also, when you stay in apartment you can save a lot of money for food (not 23 euro a day for shore). So you help local people and you save money at the same time. 😊

Wish you a nice day. Valentina

Airbnb is destroying cities and towns around the world, and having seen this destruction first hand, I am not comfortable recommending my readers to stay in Airbnb apartments. You help the locals who own properties, sure, but you fuck over everybody else who now can’t afford to pay rent because everything in their town is now an expensive Airbnb apartment. It raises the prices of accommodation for locals.

So sorry, I believe staying in Airbnb apartments is an unethical practice and I don’t support it. Do you own an Airbnb apartment?

Thanks Kris! :)

I wasn’t sure about visiting Croatia later this year, but the photos in this post now have me convinced! It looks like a very beautiful country. One small suggestion I have is that it would be useful if you could share some of the costs of food and drink so that we can create a travel budget with more ease. Appreciate all of your tips in this very useful post.

That’s a great suggestion, Kimme! My posts are always a work in progress, so I love receiving feedback on how they can be improved. I’ll get working on that today :-)

Great advice! My question to you is where would you recommend going in Croatia if you had just two weeks in August and a small budget? Thank you

Hmmm. If it was me, I’d do the following:

3 nights in Zagreb 2 nights in Plitvice 3 nights in Zadar 3 nights in Split 3 nights in Brac

And then back to Split to fly out. I’d avoid both Dubrovnik and Hvar as they’re going to be very expensive over summer.

Wow! Holy Moly. It’s my dream to see a landscape like the ones you’ve shared in this post. I haven’t been to Europe before (I live in the USA) so I have other countries at the top of my bucket list before Croatia but this is making me think I need to visit Croatia too. There’s too many places in this world to see!

I definitely understand that, Sheryll. But while Western Europe often receives all of the glory, there are parts of Eastern Europe that are just as beautiful. I hope you make it to both sometime soon :-)

Well I was so pleased with my Italian Lake photos until I saw these!!! Awesome

Thanks, Dad! :-)

Hi! I will be there in Croatia in the middle of August. Appreciated this guide as it helped me understand how much I will spend when there. Should I not go to Dubrovnik in August because it will be busy/costly?

Kind regards

Hmmm. Well, I really liked Dubrovnik, but it was packed in the summer months! It’s a beautiful spot and there’s a reason why it’s so popular with cruise ships and tourists, but you have to weigh up whether that beauty is worth spending a lot of money and dealing with a ton of crowds. If you can afford it, go for it. If you’re worried about the costs, choose to go somewhere like Split instead.

Wow, easily the best guide to Croatia I’ve seen today. Thank you for putting all of this information together, very useful. I plan to visit Croatia in April so I’m releaved to see it won’t be too expensive at that time of year.

Thank you so much, Ofelia! That means a lot. I hope you have a wonderful trip :-)

Really appreciated that you included everything in this post, Lauren. I’ve just bought the dry bag you recommended, as it sounds like a lifesaver!! Any thoughts on yacht week in Croatia? Costs, etc?

Thanks Jordan :-) I actually have a couple of friends who did yacht week in Croatia and they said that if you’re not really into partying it’s not a great option. They’re definitely pretty chill and found they didn’t really vibe with the people on their boat who were all about drinking and hooking up.

In terms of costs, well, I haven’t actually done it myself, but from a quick look online, it looks like it’ll cost around $4,000 for the yacht for a week, although you’ll be splitting that with a bunch of people, so it might not work out to be that expensive.

Hope you have a great trip if you do decide to go. You’ll have to let me know what Yacht Week is like!

Wonderful post, Lauren, coming from a Croatian. I wonder though have you visited islands like Hvar or Brač and checked their beautiful sunsets. Btw, I’m impressed with your knowledge about places you visit and some details that even I wasn’t aware of. You’ve done your homework, girl!

Thanks Mimo!

I spent a few days in Brac, and also visited Pag too. Didn’t get a chance to see many sunsets there though!

WE LOVE CROATIA! Great post Lauren. Covers everything I could say and more about the cost of travel in Croatia. Cracking read. Great. We celebrated our 10 year wedding anniversary in Split and have been returning every two years ever since. Love it. If anyone’s reading this and debating whether to go or not, I say do it! One of my favorite countries.

Wow, what a recommendation! Split sounds would be a pretty perfect place to celebrate an anniversary.

YES! I love Croatia and I love this post, Lauren. I agree that it’s more expensive than other countries in the Balkans, but it’s still a lot cheaper than countries in Western Europe. One thing I couldn’t believe was how expensive it was to walk the city walls in Dubrovnik. Not worth the money imo.

Yeah, seriously. Dubrovnik as a whole can be pretty over-the-top expensive — it was a bit of a shock to the system when I landed on my first day of my big trip and was like whoa, my money is not going to last as long as I thought . Fortunately, everywhere else in Croatia was much more affordable, and let’s face it: Dubrovnik is pretty special, so it’s worth the expense to a lot of people.

OMG I really can’t wait to get to Croatia etc one day – so awesome hun =)

You’d love it here!

This has me looking at flights to Croatia based on those stunning photos alone! I’m a mega GoTs fan so the fact that you mentioned all of those tours is so exciting. I’d love to see all of the filming locations, and then the beautiful beaches will just top it all off nicely.

You know I haven’t ever watched Game of Thrones before? A big oversight of mine! But I know that my friends who love the show have had so much fun geeking out over all the filming locations in Dubrovnik and Split. I hope you decide to book a flight to Croatia!

So many great tips in this article. You’ve made planning this trip so much easier. I now feel like I can visit Croatia on the cheap while retaining some comfort levels. Looking forward to trying to food after you have sold it so well. Thanks.

Hey, thanks so much! Enjoy all of that fresh and tasty seafood for me :-)

I really didn’t know much about Croatia until I stumbled across this post. Fantastic! You’re really selling it to your readers and now I’m trying to work out if I can squeeze in a visit before the end of summer.

Ooh, I hope you can! September would be a really good time to visit, as there aren’t many crowds and the prices are starting to drop.

I’ve been to Croatia numerous times from AUSTRALIA as I’m addicted to the country, easily one of the most beautiful places in the world. It’s the sort of place that you don’t need landmarks and sites because the atmosphere, nature, beauty, medieval feel , smells, sounds just make this place heaven on earth for me. One of my most amazing sights was driving to our base on the beautiful island of Murter from a late night clubbing. It was 5.30-6am approx in the morning and the sun was coming up as we were crossing from the mainland to the island via bridge and at that moment the colours an beauty of the place overwhelmed me. I have seen many beautiful sunsets in Croatia, what makes them amazing is the deep red and orange colours. I’ve never seen them so vivid anywhere and I’ve been half way around the world.

I totally agree with you about the sunsets! Some of the best I’ve ever seen were while travelling in Zadar. Incredible colours!

Thank you so much for putting this together. I have been trying to work out where to go with my boyfriend on holiday next week and I think I’ve just settled on Croatia. Your post made it really easy to decide with all of the photos and information on how to travel there on a budget. I love your style of writing as well.

Thanks so much, Charlotte! You’re going to have an amazing trip :-)

If you could travel to Croatia during any month, which would you choose? Taking into account the weather, the crowds, and the prices. I’m thinking May or September is probably best? Do you have strong feelings either way?

I’d probably go for September, just because there’s a school holiday in May that might clash with your travel dates and could push the prices up. For weather, as well, the average temperatures in September are around 25, compared to 22 for May. So not a huge difference, but 25 is a little nicer in my eyes.

I don’t really think you’d regret going for either month, but I’d probably choose September.

Amazing blog Lauren. What do you recommend for a solo traveler to Croatia btw? Should I stay in hostels and is it safe? Did you get lonely on your own or is it easy to meet people? I know I need to just get there and experience it for myself but its always intimidating to go to a new place by yourself.

Croatia is super safe! You really don’t have to worry, Emma. I never once felt in danger over my six weeks in the country, and found it easy to meet people in hostels. I’d recommend staying in them as a solo traveller if you’re looking to meet people — you could always stay in a private room if you’re not down for sleeping in a dorm.

Thank you so, so much for this detailed breakdown Lauren. Can I ask which islands you’d most recommend visiting if you have two weeks in Croatia? Are you missing out if you don’t spend much time on the mainland?

Fun question! One thing you could do is to fly into Dubrovnik, and then take the ferry up to Hvar and Brac, then fly out of Split, so that way you’d get to see some of the mainland as well as the islands. Korcula is another great option for an island that’s close to Hvar and Brac if you want less time on the mainland.

I personally really like the mainland spots in Croatia, and think they have just as much to offer as the islands, but it really depends on what you’re into. If you love beaches, they tend to be better on the islands. If you’re into mountains and villages, I think the mainland has better options.

Thanks for the wonderful tips! I’m thinking of going to Croatia from the US, possibly this coming April or May. What do you think about traveling there in April, mainly due to the weather and accessibility to shops, museums, attractions, etc.? Also, are you familiar with any tours offered that you could recommend as I may be traveling alone (I’m in my early 60s). Thanks!

Hi Lauren. It’s such an awesome article you built. I appreciate. I am looking for a suitable market for pets and precious stones in Croatia. Please if you have an idea how I can go about this let me know. Thanks

Ah, sorry, I’m afraid I really don’t know!

Thanks Lauren! This was really helpful in planning a daily budget for our delayed honeymoon/1 year anniversary trip there in September. We are flying into Naples and staying on the Amalfi Coast before driving across to fly from Bari to Dubrovnik. Then I planned Dubrovnik to Hvar, to Brac, to Markarska, to Split then fly to Venice then home:( . Does this seem like a good itinerary? I would’ve loved to make it up north more but maybe another trip. I cannot wait!!! Any advice is greatly appreciated.

This information is great. Is it possible to see Croatia in a week?

For a week, I’d suggest picking either the north or the south. So for the south, you could check out Dubrovnik, Split, and Hvar/Zadar. And for the north, you could go with Zagreb, Plitvice, and Pula/Rijeka/Zadar. Or just choose two places for each, if you want more of a relaxed holiday.

Both itineraries would give you a good feel for the country, and I’d be happy doing either :-)

Hi Lauren Your experience and information is amazing…thank you so much.

We are traveling to Dubrovnik on our way to Rome but only have 2 days. Is there a self guided walking tour map of some of the movie sites in Dubrovnik? We are renting a car and would love to see the non tourist beach you picture in your blog. Is there a name or information on how to get there?

Thank you so much and I hope you get to feeling better

The beach in that photo is Podrace Beach, in Brela. It’s unfortunately probably going to be too far for you to drive out to from Dubrovnik. For the filming locations, your best bet is just to google around. For example, this post is super detailed for Game of Thrones, with a map included: https://hellojetlag.com/dubrovnik-game-of-thrones-locations/ — there should be be similar guides for movies that have been filmed there, like Star Wars.

Hope you have a wonderful time in Dubrovnik! :-)

Thanks for all the info!! My bf and I will be heading to Croatia in late-June and we’ve planned to do a lot of grocery shopping on our own. How did you find the grocery stores and where would you recommend?? We’ll be in Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar and Zagreb overnight, but many other places for day trips. Thanks!

In your opinion, is it safe to travel to Croatia? You’ve spent a lot of time there, so I’d love to know your thoughts.

Yes! Very safe. I didn’t have any safety issues in Croatia and feel comfortable recommending it as a safe travel destination. I feel safer there than I do in my home country and the U.S.!

Hey Lauren, We plan to visit Croatia this September. Can you recommend a day or less bike tours that takes us to some cool places that is not too strenuous? Either by a guide or by renting bikes and exploring on our own. Your information has been so helpful to us and appreciate you taking all the time and effort in posting this.

Another great post, I can’t thank you enough for these budget travel guides. I’m planning on spending two weeks in Croatia in June, traveling to Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice, and Zagreb, and I’m hoping to keep my budget under $60 a day. Do you think this is possible?

Hey Lauren, Lovely article :-)

I am planning to go Croatia this Sept with my 1.5 year old Infant. Will it be feasible to visit the places along with a kid, Also I am planning to hire a car along with driver or you would recommend to take daily trips from Zagreb to all across Croatia?

Many Thanks, Shraddha

What a great post! Very informative – just what I needed. Thank you.

No problem! Hope you have a wonderful time in Croatia :-)

if you only had 5 days to see some of croatia, what would you do to make it worth it on the cheap?

A very comprehensive article. Thanks for taking the time to put it together – much appreciated. I’m still in the very early stages of planning my world trip but this info has sown the seed of curiosity about visiting Croatia thank you.

Yay! I’m so happy to hear that, Chris :-)

Great post Lauren and very informative. Thanks very much for this. Best regards, Nicholas

Thanks for reading!

It might help to know that American Airlines has recently introduced a direct line connecting Philadelphia and Dubrovnik during the season months (June through September). If my memory serves me well, they will operate 3 flights per week.

Kind regards Ivan

Thank you so much! Will add it to the post :-)

Thank you for the awesome guidelines :)

Thanks for reading! :-)

This has been so helpful! I noticed the typical pricing has the euro symbol next to it, have you given the pricing in euro to make things easier to compare to or is the price actually in Kuna as I read you should take Kuna. I’m going in 3 weeks and just trying to work out a budget

Hi Lauren, This may be a hard question to answer, but I thought I’d put it out there:) I have dual citizenship (U.S. / Ireland) and was entertaining the idea of retiring in a European country. I was considering both Croatia and Portugal, based on my Internet research. I know that you spent some time in Lisbon and wondered how it would compare to, say, settling in Zagreb. I know Spanish so it would be easier to learn Portuguese. But I like where Croatia is situated (closer to more countries for visiting), and it also seems a little more affordable. It’s hard to get a sense of the cultures just by doing research online, but it sounds like the people are lovely in both places. I plan to visit soon and try it out, but I just wondered if you had any thoughts on this. Thanks, Rose

Hi Rose! Ah, those are two wonderful options :-)

You’re correct in that Croatia is more affordable, but the language would be tricker to learn. And that locals in both countries are lovely and so friendly! English is spoken widely in both countries, so there wouldn’t be too high of a language barrier either way. There’d be a much larger community of expats/retirees in Portugal, as it is such a popular retirement destination, so it would probably be a lot easier to build a community there. Lisbon, to me, feels more like an *international city*, in that there are tons of different restaurants and cuisines and immigrants from countries all over — Zagreb doesn’t have that as much.

I don’t know if that helps at all, but I think both options sound pretty good!

Your reply does help – thank you, Lauren! By the way, I’m sorry about the Brexit situation. I have an English cousin in Spain, and she was disappointed about the decision to leave. But on a positive note, it’s wonderful you live in a country that is so geographically close to so many interesting countries/cultures. I’m in Northern California, just outside of San Francisco (which sounds exciting), but you have to travel far (and by plane) to get to culturally distinct locations. I’m trying to keep my carbon footprint small, and I like the idea of visiting a variety of places by train. You’re fortunate that you have that option and at the same time be close to family. Thank you for your help and for a terrific website! Rose

Hi We are going to Croatia in April 2024. Can you give us any idea about what to expect the weather to be like. Also it is our first time in Croatia for 10 days we would like to see as much as possible as well as some down time. Thanks

Lauren, thank you!! I am visiting Croatia and of course, I need to plan my expenses in advance. Your article really helped me with this issue I have been trying to figure out the past week.

Thanks for your blog and keep posing,

We also document every cent of our travels, partially to show how affordable travel can be, but mainly to ensure we stick to a budget. We only have limited funds (as do most people) and try to be frugal in some areas while still having the ability to learn about the culture, cuisine, people and history of a country.

And in the end, our costs were very similar to yours. Always good to have several data points to compare.

Sweet! Glad to hear your costs matched up with mine :-)

Hello Lauren! Great article, lovely read. I am looking to visit Croatia for a month or more if I love the country and I can see that you do not favor Airbnbs for reasons, which I understand. I do not wish to contribute to gentrification or high prices, so what are my options. I will bring my entire life with me (as I am living out of a suitcase at the moment) as well as my cat. I am sure that makes hostels out of the question. I’d like an entire place to myself. Is there a more ethical version to Airbnb? Thanks in advance!

is it possible to rent a car in Zagreb drive and cover all the major cities, I did this in Italy and covered – Rome, Venice, Florence and all the way to Sorrento & Amalfi coast, the highways were excellent

Amazing post, I almost convinced my wife that we will greece in October in between someone said why not greece and then I explored I found your post..I strongly believe that anyone reading your post is 100’% convinced with your recommendation. Thanks so much keep writing… we are planning to travel this October. Any advise that you can recommend ?

Amazing photos. This was a really helpful post for my upcoming trip and I’ll be sure to stay at some of the guesthouses you recommend too.

No problem! Glad you found it useful :-) Have an amazing trip!

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Meet Lauren Juliff

A One Week in Croatia Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal (7 Day Guide)

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 14th January 2024

Categories Croatia , Itineraries

Last Updated on 14th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

A land of beautiful cities and even more beautiful coastline, Croatia is quickly skyrocketing to the top of many traveller’s bucket lists on account of its ease of access and relative affordability. Here’s your ultimate guide and itinerary for spending one week in Croatia , as well as things to know before visiting.

Why visit Croatia?

When to go to croatia, where to stay in croatia, day 1: zagreb, day 2: rijeka, day 3: plitvice lakes, days 4: split, day 5: brac island or mostar, day 6: dubrovnik, day 7: devote your second and last day in dubrovnik to explore the beautiful coast of dubrovnik.

When thinking about visiting the Balkan peninsula, choosing the right country to visit can be overwhelming. Most of them promise a time of incredible experiences.

Croatia is one of the most popular destinations in the area with amazing landscapes, interesting history mixed with a fascinating recent past, charming beaches, and quite affordable fees.

The country is so varied and eclectic, that even a couple of months wouldn’t be enough to see it all, however, a short vacation of a week in Croatia is a great start to scratch the surface and discover a memorable destination.

In this article, I share with you this well-tested one week in Croatia. An itinerary through three different cities, a few of the best places to visit in Croatia , and some of the most impressive landmarks that you don’t want to miss.

For more inspiration, be sure to check out the best-kept secrets of Croatia , how to plan a honeymoon in Croatia , how to spend 3 days in Split , how to spend one day in Zagreb , and how to spend 3 days in Dubrovnik .

Located facing the Adriatic Sea, towards the northern part of the Mediterranean, the country has an extensive coast and features varied weather without many extreme climatic conditions.

The country has four well-defined seasons, with cold, wet winters, hot summers, and mild weather in the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) . As a consequence, it is better to decide on when to visit according to your preferences and what activities are you planning to do over there.

If you are a confessed beach goes, then summer is best for warm weather and pleasant sea temperatures. Keep in mind that summers tend to be overcrowded and more expensive too.

Winter is best if you enjoy the snow and cozy cafés, or if you prefer exploring the city or the countryside instead of sunbathing. In winter, it is also possible to go skiing or snowboarding or to join excursions to lush pine forests and frozen lakes. Prices go down for accommodation, transport, and attractions as well, and the country is not overcrowded.

If you’re looking for a compromise between beach time and city walks, then both autumn and spring have the most pleasant temperatures. And even when swimming in autumn can get cold, the weather is perfect for long walks on the beach.

On the other hand, after a few months of basking under the summer sun, the temperature in the sea is perfect to swim during spring. Prices for accommodation are affordable and, although many visitors travel to Croatia, it is not as crowded as in summer.

When planning to stay for a week in Croatia, choosing accommodation will largely depend on the activities you have planned and the places you want to see. If you’re planning on visiting a lot of places scattered across Croatia, you’ll probably want to plan to stay in each destination for only a night or two.

Most flights land in Zagreb, the capital, which is located in the north of the country, while many gorgeous places can be found in the south, on the Dalmatian coast. So choosing a place to stay will also have to do with transportation.

Renting a car is affordable and safe, and driving is quite doable. However, the country also has a very good public transport system (ferries, trains, buses), and all major cities have an airport. Check here for car rental comparison prices.

If you are in Croatia for beach holidays, you could consider staying in the south. Dubrovnik is a great city with amazing islands nearby, pristine beaches, and a wonderful historic town, in this case, you’ll be staying about 6 hours away from the capital.

Split is a good compromise too. Located in the geographic centre of the country, it lets you move around easily cutting down hours on the road. Its strategic position makes it an important hub, with easy connections to every corner of the territory. Moreover, the city also faces the sea, so you can access many islands as well as beaches during your stay.

In this itinerary, I’ve included things to do in and around these three important cities, choosing Split as a base for its convenient location. However, if your plane lands in another area, you can move around the activities to fit your own itinerary.

One Week in Croatia: Unmissable Things to Do

Use your first day in Zagreb to get acquainted with the local culture, the time zone, and the climate. As of 2023, Croatia uses the euro as its currency. Start by heading to the funicular so as to climb all the way up to Zagreb’s upper town, the picturesque historic district of Croatia’s capital.

Here, take a walk along the ancient cobblestoned alleys with colourful houses dating from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, built in the so-called Austro-Hungarian style. If you wish to explore the city together with a local guide, then you can book a walking tour like this one.

Check out Strossmayer Promenade, perfect for a stroll with many coffee shops, restaurants, and a few interesting shops to peruse.

After that pay a visit to the thirteenth-century Saint Mark’s Cathedral an imposing Gothic church with an ancient facade and two impressive spires. The church is particularly noted for its interesting rooftop.

Not far, you will also find the pedestrian Tkalčićeva Street, lined with outdoor cafes and ideal for a morning break. Next up, you can head to the old WWII tunnels that played a key role not only during the war but also in the long years of Communist rule.

One of my favorite places in old town Zagreb is an original museum displaying very personal objects through a unique art project.

Known as the Museum of Broken Relationships, the place features hundreds of objects related to break-up stories around the world that took place due to cultural, class, or wealth differences. Purchase your Skip-the-Ticket-Line Museum of Broken Relationships here.

Early wake up on day two for a day trip to Rijeka, a bus will take you in a little more than two hours and the price varies between €12 to €18. Rijeka is a Croatian port city situated on the Kvarner Bay facing the northern Adriatic. It is the best departure point to visit some of Croatia’s islands too.

When in town, check out the so-called Korzo, the most important street in town where there is a clear Habsburg era heritage with impressive buildings, a few interesting churches, and squares.

In Rijeka, you can also visit the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre located in a magnificent aristocratic building dating back to the nineteenth century that displays spectacular paintings by Gustav Klimt on its ceiling.

After lunch, walk your way uphill to visit the complex of Trsat Castle from where there are great views of the underlying bay and the islands nearby. You can spend the afternoon visiting the castle as well as a magnificent shrine located inside the complex.

Later on, go for a traditional Croatian dinner and make your way back to Zagreb.

Pack a comfortable day bag with your essentials for a hiking day, wear comfortable walking shoes and embark on an unforgettable adventure at the amazing Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of the many UNESCO-listed sites in Croatia.

Probably the most popular attraction in the country, this will be a very interesting trip, full of magnificent views, so don’t forget your camera! The lakes are located a bit less than three hours from Zagreb.

You need to take the bus that takes you to Plitvicka Jezera (about €18 one way) and from there a local bus or a taxi to the main gate to access the park.

For a seamless visit, you can also join an organized tour that includes pick-up and drop-off, meals, and a few extra visits to other interesting nearby places like this one. On the site, you will be able to marvel at the pristine emerald waters of the lakes, dotted with gorgeous old watermills and refreshing waterfalls.

If you visit in summer you can even swim or discover the area in a kayak. If you visit in winter, many of the cascades will be frozen, an unforgettable sight that you wouldn’t want to miss. The park charges an entrance fee to visitors that ranges from around €12 in winter to €31 in summer.

At this point of your week, you can decide to visit Split as a day trip from Zagreb, or — if you don’t mind changing accommodations — head south and find a place to stay in Split. The main reason for doing so is not just that Split has a lot on offer for visitors, but that it will allow you to discover the south of the country with shorter traveling times.

Besides, from Split, it is even possible to visit some foreign destinations as well, such as Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina, or the small city of Kotor in Montenegro. From Split, you will also have easy access to different islands as well as to the beautiful city of Dubrovnik.

On your first day in Split, start by exploring the imposing Diocletian Palace, the most important building in the city, home to dozens of things to see. This is another Croatian UNESCO-listed site, a complex built back in Roman times (about the fourth century) and extremely well preserved.

The main purpose of the building was to become the retirement home for Emperor Diocletian. On the premises, you can check out the remains of the villa, the cellars, the military camp, but also imposing gates, squares, and the oldest cathedral in the world.

The palace is so long that you could easily spend all day visiting. To avoid wandering aimlessly in the complex, you can also join a guided tour like this one to devote time to the main highlights and then head to other parts of town.

After this experience, you can explore other corners of the old town where you will find not just Roman remains, but also several buildings dating back to the Renaissance.

In the afternoon, it is a good idea to head to the coast for a kayak trip. Kayaking is one of the most popular activities all along the Croatian coast. A sea kayaking activity is perfect to make friends, explore the coastline, and have tons of fun.

All the necessary equipment for the activity, including snorkeling equipment, is often provided by the tour companies. There are many of them along the coast , this one in particular offers excellent value for money .

There are two things you could do on this fifth day, it all depends on what you’re looking for and even the weather. On a hot, summer day, you can take a full-day trip to Brac by ferry. Brac is the largest island in the area and it is located on the Adriatic Sea, opposite the city of Split.

Being quite close to the shore, it is very easy to reach with the public ferry, although there are also tours that will take you there, and once on the island, they will also show you the best places around.

On Brac, you can go to the beach, spend time swimming, or even go snorkelling. Most shores on the island are calm and shallow, and the beaches relaxing. On the island, it is also possible to go hiking or to take long walks up the hill.

If the day is not as hot for a beach then why not visit a nearby country? Lesser- known than Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is located a few kilometres from Croatia and one of its main landmarks, the old city of Mostar, is easily reached by bus or with a tour from Split.

If you travel on your own, the bus ride is around 3 hours and 30 minutes and the ticket is about €25) Once in Mostar, spend time admiring the beautiful Stari Most, a legendary stone bridge that crosses the Neretva River.

In town, you can also explore the oriental buildings, and the mosques with their tall minarets, and dedicate at least a few hours to the gorgeous Old Bazar of Mostar, great not just for souvenirs but also for lunch!

If spending a long time on a public bus is not your cup of tea, then check out this organised tour that takes you there and back to Split in a much shorter time.

Even if the trip seems to be reaching its end, there is still a lot to see. You will spend the next two days enjoying one of the most popular destinations in the country, Dubrovnik, a favorite for Game of Thrones fans as well as a great place to kickstart your island-hopping experience in Croatia.

But let’s head to the old own first! Dubrovnik’s old town is a complex maze of ancient buildings and sites from different historic periods built with a varied diversity of architectural styles.

From Medieval to Gothic and from Romanesque to Renaissance, the city has an ever-changing facade that makes it attractive and mysterious.

Checking out the ancient city walls surrounding the old town is a must when visiting. These thick walls with imposing gates and defensive towers gained the name of the best protective system in the Middle Ages.

A walking tour of the old town and the walls like this one or even a tour of the top filming sets of the popular HBO series like this one can provide all the insight you need to learn about the past of Dubrovnik.

Touring most of the walls will take you a good part of your morning, get lost in the alleys of the historic district until you find a nice stop for a snack and a rest.

Later on, check out some of the main landmarks in this ancient district, including In the center of town, its promenades and squares, the cathedral, and the curious Fountain of Onofrio an ancient water fountain that sill channels channeling water from an aqueduct nearby.

If you have only time in the morning, because you’re traveling back to Zagreb in the afternoon to catch your plane, check out this adventure that takes you kayaking Betina Cave early in the morning. After the early rise, reach the coast and jump on a kayak.

This experience takes you to see the whole sea length of the ancient walls and then continue to Betina Cave Beach, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

If you don’t need to reach Zagreb because your plane leaves from Dubrovnik, then consider spending a full day exploring Lopud, Sipan, and Kolocep. You can even book a day trip like this one. Also known as the Elaphite Islands where you won’t only swim, sunbathe, and spend spectacular moments by the sea…

In fact, you can also enjoy the local cuisine, go hiking, taste local wines, and a lot more before going back to the port of Dubrovnik. As you could see, the area is filled with experiences and activities that will keep you happy and (very) busy for the whole length of your seven days in Croatia!

Enjoyed reading this itinerary for one week in Croatia? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Gabi Ancarola is a journalist and travel writer who has lived over 20 years in Italy, and has been living in Crete for the last five years. She hosts culinary tours, translates and writes for her Crete travel blog The Tiny Book . She’s written for Greek Reporter and published several travel guides about Greece.

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Wednesday 20th of September 2023

Amazing itinerary. Invaluable information. Thank you so much! I will copying, with pleasure.

Thebeautifulcroatia.com

Reddit Travelling In Croatia

Reddit Travelling in Croatia

As a picturesque country situated along the Mediterranean Sea, Croatia has continued to rise in popularity among travelers, hosting tourists from across the world. With its rugged coastline and peaceful islands, Croatia has plenty to offer. Recently, Reddit has seen an influx of travelers on the platform to share their experiences of traveling in Croatia. From providing advice to detailing general tips for travelers, Reddit has become an invaluable source of information for those interested in exploring the area, with Redditors offering a wealth of knowledge on the topic.

The /r/Croatia subreddit, for example, offers an array of posts from visitors as well as locals alike. Regular posts cover a range of topics from weather updates to travel tips, with many of them from visitors seeing what the country has to offer. With a variety of posts being offered by visitors, it’s easy to get a comprehensive view of the area. In addition to these posts, Redditors also provide unique perspectives on destinations within Croatia and other tips that visitors may not necessarily find elsewhere. This knowledge can be invaluable for travelers when planning an upcoming trip.

The /r/Croatia subreddit is just one part of Reddit’s vast repository of Croatian-related posts. Redditors have also been actively sharing their insights into the country’s different regions and cities. Subreddits such as /r/zagreb or /r/Dubrovnik have their own community sections that offer information for anyone considering visiting either location. These posts can provide invaluable information about options for accommodations, transportation, typical activities and attractions, and much more.

With the diversity of posts comes an array of information that can be beneficial to travelers. Redditors have gone into detail about items they’ve encountered while in Croatia, such as beaches, streets, language barriers, food, and more. This information can provide travelers with valuable insight into the country. Additionally, Redditors are also keen to offer advice on the best times to visit different regions and cities. This knowledge can give travelers a better idea of the types of experiences they might encounter in a certain area.

Furthermore, Redditors have also suggested locations that might be worth exploring. From stunning national parks to cultural cities, these tips can enable travelers to discover new and interesting places outside the normal tourist route. These suggestions can also be useful for those who find themselves uncertain of which locations to visit in the country.

Finally, Redditors are quite forthcoming about their recommendations. Most time, travelers can expect honest and informative reviews from Redditors who have visited the region. From opinions on attractions to restaurants, Redditors have no problem offering up helpful advice on the best places to visit and the most effective way to go about doing so. Combined with the other posts shared on Reddit, this advice can help to craft a unique and memorable journey for travelers.

Different Types of Accommodations

When it comes to accommodation, Croatia offers a plethora of different options to fit any budget or taste. From chic rentals overlooking the Adriatic Sea to budget-friendly hostels, travelers are sure to find something to suit their needs and preferences. Redditors are quite enthusiastic about discussing the various types of accommodations they have encountered during their travels. Many will comment on the quality and amenities offered, which can be especially helpful for those who are looking for a certain accommodation type. This knowledge can give potential travelers a better idea of what’s available in the area.

One of the best ways to score the ideal accommodation is by using reviewing websites. Redditors have recommended taking advantage of TripAdvisor, Airbnb, HostelWorld, and more to get an accurate assessment of available options. Many travelers find this helpful for narrowing down their search, as they can receive a comprehensive overview of different accommodations. Taking the time to read through these reviews can help travelers to make a more informed decision when selecting the best place to stay as they explore the beautiful country of Croatia.

In addition, many Redditors will recommend talking to travelers who have recently stayed in a certain area prior to booking. This can be an especially helpful tactic, as it can provide visitors with an inside look from someone who has experienced the country firsthand. By engaging in conversations with others, travelers can gain information about specific amenities, locations, and more.

On the other hand, for those looking for a more authentic experience, Redditors have suggested participating in a home exchange. This can help to create a unique and unforgettable stay in Croatia, as travelers get to truly see what life is like in the country. It can also be an incredibly cost-effective option for those looking to explore Croatia on a budget.

Exploring Nature and the Great Outdoors

A major part of experiencing Croatia is taking the opportunity to explore its majestic natural landscapes. From exploring the deep seas to wandering through vibrant forests and grassy meadows, nature lovers will find plenty to admire. Redditors discuss in great detail the captivating natural beauty that Croatia has to offer. Many Redditors recommend visiting the Plitvice Lakes National Park, as it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in the country. Photos of the area capture the stunning scenery, with waterfalls cascading against a backdrop of lush green foliage. Other popular destinations include the Krka National Park and the Mljet National Park.

For those looking for a unique experience, Redditors have suggested looking into Croatia’s many outdoor activities. From fishing and beachcombing to kayaking and cycling, visitors can find a variety of ways to explore the country’s vistas. Redditors have also noted that Croatia is home to a variety of adventurous sporting activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and caving, making it an ideal destination for thrill seekers. Additionally, Redditors have shared many posts about the area’s wildlife, adding to the excitement of the country’s many natural wonders.

Another great suggestion for travelers looking to experience Croatia’s natural beauty is to embrace the country’s many historic sites. As the country is full of sites of historical importance, travelers can get an immersive view of the region’s history. Redditors suggest exploring cities like Dubrovnik and Split for a comprehensive look at cultural sites. These cities offer a fascinating glimpse into the region’s past as well as its present.

Unique Restaurants and Food Specialties

No destination is complete without sampling some of the local cuisine, and Croatia is no exception. Redditors have enjoyed a variety of restaurants throughout the country, offering travelers a comprehensive look into the region’s culinary scene. Popular posts on Reddit have detailed experiences at some of the country’s best restaurants, with visitors discussing the friendliness of the staff, the atmosphere, and, of course, the food. Some of the country’s most popular dishes include peka, a roasted dish typically served with vegetables and meats. Additionally, visitors have enjoyed a variety of fresh seafood and meat dishes, and there are a variety of vegan and vegetarian options available for those with dietary restrictions.

In addition, Redditors have also discussed local traditions and customs that make Croatian food so unique and special. From attending local festivals and trying homemade dishes to experiencing traditional cooking techniques, there’s much to discover about Croatia’s culinary culture. As these experiences are some of the best memories travelers can take away from their trips, Redditors highly encourage visitors to dine in and explore the country’s diverse cuisine.

For those looking to experience the cuisine in the most traditional manner possible, Redditors have also suggested embracing the region’s many small eateries. Many of these places offer unique meals and tasty treats that visitors can’t find anywhere else. From sampling traditional wine to trying local delicacies, these spots can be quite an unforgettable experience. Additionally, these types of eateries are known to offer excellent prices, giving travelers a great option for an affordable yet delicious meal.

Suggested Activities and Excursions

In addition to its many dining experiences, Redditors have also shared wonderful stories about their excursions in Croatia. A popular post suggested taking a short boat ride to the stunning Elaphite Islands for a day of exploration. Visitors have noted the unique atmosphere that these islands offer, with their peaceful solitude and stunning views making them a great destination for travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life. Redditors have also suggested renting a car and taking a road trip around the country. From exploring quaint towns to visiting rugged landscapes, travelers can experience Croatia’s varied sights and sounds on this type of journey.

On the other hand, for those looking to go beyond Croatia’s borders, Redditors have suggested taking an excursion to Bosnia. This nearby country to the east offers a unique opportunity to explore a country with a different history and culture, while still having the comforts and conveniences of a tourist-friendly destination. Redditors have praised the cultural experiences here, with many tourists noting the historical lessons they learned while exploring this country.

Furthermore, visitors can look forward to experiencing the Gold Coast, which is a collection of cities and towns that offer pristine beaches and beautiful views. This area is also full of vibrant nightlife and activities, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a good time. Additionally, Redditors have also discussed their experiences with whale and dolphin spotting throughout the area. From the waters of the Adriatic Sea to the Bay of Kvarner, travelers can witness some of nature’s most incredible marvels.

Preparation and Safety Tips

Before heading out on their journey, Redditors have recommended taking some precautions as with any travel destination. One of the main tips that Redditors have suggested is purchasing travel insurance. This can provide a security blanket in case of any unexpected events, ensuring that visitors can continue their holiday without any worries. Additionally, Redditors have discussed the importance of being aware of the country’s climate conditions. From making sure to stay hydrated in the summer to bundling up during chilly months, visitors can be sure to enjoy their holiday without any issues.

Further, Redditors have also addressed the need to be prepared when it comes to money. From researching exchange rates to ensuring that ATMs are available around the country, travelers should have no issue accessing the cash they need. Additionally, Redditors have recommended having plenty of cash on hand, as there are certain establishments that don’t accept card payments. For added convenience, travelers should also research the country’s various credit card options and decide which one to use during their trip.

Safety is also a top priority for most travelers, and Redditors have addressed this concern in many of their posts. From providing advice on how to stay safe while exploring new places to noting basic safety protocols, Redditors have offered many useful tips to ensure that visitors can have a worry-free experience. Additionally, Redditors have suggested staying up to date on any potential governmental regulations that might impact visitors’ plans, as this information can prove to be invaluable.

Tiana Francis

Tiana R. Francis is an American writer, editor, and content creator based in Zagreb, Croatia. With her work, she hopes to bring attention to the cultural and social issues of the region, and to help bridge the gap between Croatian culture and the rest of the world.

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UK tourists told to 'avoid' Dubrovnik in Croatia travel warning

UK tourists have been advised to steer clear of Dubrovnik in Croatia due to overwhelming crowds. British holidaymakers heading to the popular Star Wars and Game of Thrones filming location have been alerted about the issue.

A post on Reddit warned Brits: "End of July is high season in Croatia, so crowds are to be expected. Someone already mentioned inland Croatia as an option for your potentially less-crowded second week, and I would also suggest to look up Zagorje (northern part of the country), inland Istria (lots of cute villages to visit, and not far from Krk), and the regions of Gorski Kotar and Lika (mountainous parts of Croatia)."

One traveller shared their experience: "We did a lot of Croatia a some summers ago, it was REALLY crowded! Not even the cities but places like the Piltvace Lakes were insane; also very hot! But there is a reason they are all there, it is worth it if you can handle the crowds! ".

Another user pointed out: "Croatia has about 237 "tourist beds" per 1000 inhabitants. I recently mad a map that covers this for most of Europe."

Yet another added: "With the human population continuously growing such things are only going to become more and more common in Europe which has so many beautiful cities.", reports Birmingham Live .

"Tourism is killing life in many European city destinations. It has become very hard to find affordable apartment for long term rent so young people move out to suburbs. Many owners ask people to move out before June and then they make more money over summer," one individual commented.

""It's extremely touristy, huge boats are coming in and out bringing thousands of tourists in the very small old town. After 9am it's packed and really not enjoyable anymore," another person explained. A third added: ""Croatia is amazing but this city doesn't represent it well. It's super expensive and very, very touristy."

"Even worse when cruise ships roll in. Explore the rest of the country too."

Holidaymakers warn to avoid sunny Croatian seaside city despite its beauty

Brits travelling to Dubrovnik this summer have been warned about an issue sweeping the area, as some travellers say it has taken the enjoyment out of their holiday

• 15:14, 15 May 2024

Brits heading to Croatia this summer are being warned of huge crowds that some holidaymakers say has sucked the joy out of their trips.

The travel warning covers the city of Dubrovnik – famed for being the chosen filming location for Star Wars and Game of Thrones . But Dubrovnik appears to be attracting more than just film and TV lovers, with those who have already travelled to the city in the height of summer warning of huge crowds that are 'killing' the area.

On Reddit one user said the herds of tourists in the city were "insane", arguing that it is only worth visiting by those who could "handle the crowds". They added: "We did a lot of Croatia some summers ago, it was REALLY crowded! Not even the cities, but places like the Plitvice Lakes were insane; also very hot! But there is a reason they are all there, it is worth it if you can handle the crowds!"

Have you been to Dubrovnik? How did you find the crowds? Let us know in the comments below.

As beautiful as the country may be and sought after its coastline, Croatia has long had a reputation as a crowded country.

Offering advice on how to ignore the floods of people in Dubrovnik, the experts at Responsible Travel write: "Anyone who’s timed their holiday to Dubrovnik just wrong will know that sinking feeling of standing on the city walls, watching as a sixth cruise ship rocks up to the horizon. Like Venice and Barcelona before it, Dubrovnik has become synonymous with overtourism."

The travel company added that the idea "tourism has ruined the city – or that you shouldn’t visit at all – isn’t quite right" as "Dubrovnik is still one of the prettiest cities in the world, spun with impossibly picturesque streets." But it went on to advise holidaymakers not to travel to the city in the height of summer.

Responsible Travel added: "Thanks to its spot in the deep south of Croatia, Dubrovnik serves up some of the sunniest, warmest days in the country. Summer heralds six ships a day arriving in Gruz port, families freed from school and work commitments, packed beaches and city streets that give Venice a run for its money in terms of crowds.

"Crowds aside, it’s not always the best time to be on the Dalmatian Coast anyway. July and August see highs of 28°C, which turns the crowds in the city and beaches into a new kind of torment. Activity holidays sometimes take a siesta during this time; hiking with heatstroke is no fun."

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Croatia conservative leader Plenkovic appointed as prime minister-designate for third term

Croatian conservative leader and two-time prime minister, Andrej Plenkovic has been appointed prime minister-designate after he forged an alliance with an extreme party following an inconclusive election. Plenkovic’s ruling Croatian Democratic Union won most votes at last month’s parliamentary vote in the European Union nation but not enough to stay in power on their own.

Andrej Plenkovic, centre, arrives at the presidential palace to meet President Zoran Milanovic, in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 10, 2024. Croatian conservative leader and two-time prime minister, Andrej Plenkovic, on Friday was appointed prime minister-designate after he forged an alliance with an extreme party following an inconclusive election. (AP Photo)

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Andrej Plenkovic, left, meets President Zoran Milanovic at the presidential palace in Zagreb, Croatia, Friday, May 10, 2024. Croatian conservative leader and two-time prime minister, Andrej Plenkovic, on Friday was appointed prime minister-designate after he forged an alliance with an extreme party following an inconclusive election. (AP Photo)

ZAGREB, Croatia (AP) — Croatian conservative leader Andrej Plenkovic was formally appointed prime minister-designate on Friday for a third consecutive term after he forged an alliance with an extreme right party following an inconclusive election .

Plenkovic’s ruling Croatian Democratic Union won the most votes at last month’s parliamentary vote in the European Union nation, but not enough to stay in power on their own. The party this week agreed to form a coalition with far-right Homeland Movement for a parliamentary majority.

Lawmakers are set to approve Plenkovic’s new government next week. It will have a slim majority of 78 lawmakers in the 151-member assembly, which could herald political uncertainty.

“We will continue in our third mandate to work for progress,” Plenkovic said on X, former Twitter, after he was appointed by President Zoran Milanovic.

Plenkovic’s new Cabinet is likely to push Croatia further to the right ahead of next month’s European election, which takes place as the continent faces a war in Ukraine , climate emergencies, migration and other problems.

The Homeland Movement, or DP, is a relatively new political party in Croatia, made up largely of radical nationalists and social conservatives who had left the center-right HDZ. The party is led by the hard-line mayor of the eastern town of Vukovar, which was destroyed during Croatia’s 1991 war for independence after it split from the former Yugoslavia.

For the first time in years, Croatia’s government will not include a party representing minority Serbs because DP opposed their inclusion. That has fueled concerns about ethnic tensions stemming from the conflict in the 1990s.

HDZ has largely held office since Croatia gained independence. The Balkan nation became an EU member in 2013, and joined Europe’s passport-free travel area and the eurozone last year.

2024 WNBA season rookies to watch: Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese, Kamilla Cardoso

The 2024 WNBA rookie class is one of the most anticipated in history, led by none other than Caitlin Clark , the scoring phenom from Iowa who re-wrote the college record books. 

But she’s not the only newcomer expected to make a big impact, and do so immediately. There hasn’t been this sort of attention and excitement around WNBA rookies since 2013, when Brittney Griner , Elena Della Donne and Skylar Diggins-Smith joined the league. 

To get you ready for the 2024 WNBA season that tips Tuesday , USA TODAY Sports' Lindsay Schnell gives a primer on the nine rookies she thinks will have the biggest impact this season.

Caitlin Clark, Indiana Fever

Position: guard

College: Iowa

College career stats: 28.4 points, 7.1 rebounds, 8.2 assists

She’ll play right away because: You know she’s the best scorer in the history of college basketball, men or women, right? 

She’ll need to work on: Her defense

She said it: “I do feel a responsibility to lead the women’s game.” 

Did you know: Clark is obsessed with chocolate chip cookies, especially if they’re freshly baked. In high school, she was often late to practice, leading her team on a trek to the concession stand for warm chocolate chip cookies. Her mom Anne is known for baking desserts for Clark’s teammates.

Kamilla Cardoso, Chicago Sky

Position: center

College: South Carolina

College career stats: 10.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 1.2 assists

She won't play right away because: Cardoso is expected to miss the first month of the season with a shoulder injury. But the 6-foot-7 center has impressive athleticism and body control for someone her size, and she’s a rebounding machine.

She’ll need to work on: Developing more offensive moves and improving her shooting range

She said it: “Nobody is going to get any rebounds on us.” — on playing in Chicago with Angel Reese (she tossed her hair over her shoulder for extra flair after she said this).

Did you know: A Brazilian native, Cardoso is a huge soccer fan. Her favorite player, of course, is Marta , someone who Cardoso said inspired her to follow her athletic dreams. 

OPINION: Want WNBA, women's sports to thrive? Fans must do their part, buying tickets and swag.

OPINION: Caitlin Clark builds on 1999 U.S. soccer team's moment in lifting women's sports

MORE: WNBA's newest team has a name: The Golden State Valkyries

Cameron Brink, Los Angeles Sparks

Position: forward

College: Stanford

College career stats: 14.0 points, 9.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists

She’ll play right away because: Brink is the best two-way player in the 2024 class, and will provide scoring and defense from Day 1. 

She’ll need to work on: Learning how to defend without fouling (this is an evergreen statement).

She said it: “You can only hope to do half of what they’ve done … I just hope to be half of the player they were.” — on following in the footsteps of other great Sparks forwards Lisa Leslie, Candace Parker and Nneka Ogwumike

Did you know: Brink learned about the WNBA from her mom, Michelle Bain-Brink, who played college basketball at Virginia Tech and then became a product manager at Nike, where she worked on Dawn Staley’s signature shoe. (Brink is signed with New Balance).

Rickea Jackson, Los Angeles Sparks

College: Tennessee and Mississippi State

College career stats: 17.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.6 assists

She’ll play right away because: Jackson has a pro-ready frame and her size will help her adjust. She can score in bunches, and the Sparks need that after losing their top two scorers in the offseason.

She’ll need to work on: Jackson improved her outside shooting significantly throughout her college career. Now, will she be able to create space and hit against bigger, longer and stronger defenders?

She said it: “It’s just different — the weather, the culture, it’s just this different vibe when you get into Cali(fornia). I like it a lot, besides the traffic.”

Did you know: Jackson worked as a Pioneer mascot for one game in high school, but said she couldn’t do it full-time because the costume was too hot. 

Jacy Sheldon, Dallas Wings

College: Ohio State

College career stats:  15.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.1 assists

She’ll play right away because: She’s one of the best defenders in the class, especially gifted at defending in transition and pushing the pace after she’s stolen the ball. 

She’ll need to work on: Being able to create her own shots in the half court

She said it:  “It's the hardest professional roster to make. But I think (the key) for me just staying confident and being ready to learn and listen."

Did you know: Sheldon’s sister Emmy, a 16-year-old with Down syndrome, became a fan favorite at Ohio State and is widely known as her big sister’s No. 1 fan. After Jacy was drafted in April, Emmy joined her on stage to celebrate. 

Aaliyah Edwards, Washington Mystics

College: UConn

College career stats: 13.4 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.7 assists

She’ll play right away because: With Elena Delle Donne out this season, the Mystics are in need of a big(ger) body who can score, rebound and get out in transition. Edwards loves to run the floor. 

She’ll need to work on: Being able to consistently knock down open 3s

She said it: “I’m just really grateful to make an impact here in the States and to lead the way so they can build their own footprints.” — on her desire to inspire other Canadian basketball players

Did you know: Edwards is the only member of this rookie class who comes into the league with Olympic experience, having played for Canada at the Tokyo Olympics. 

Angel Reese, Chicago Sky

College: LSU and Maryland

Career college stats: 18.6 points, 12.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists

She’ll play right away because: The Sky need rebounding, and Reese is a machine on the boards. She’s also an excellent facilitator.

She’ll need to work on: Scoring on her first opportunity (she rebounded a lot of her own misses in college) and shooting range

She said it: “I went to the Met Gala, slayed the Met Gala in New York, came back, slayed New York. It’s what I do. I’m not one-dimensional, women don’t have to be one-dimensional.” 

Did you know: Reese is the face of women’s basketball at Reebok, a company owned and operated by her mentor, Shaquille O’Neal . She said Reebok plans to give her a signature sneaker soon. 

Alissa Pili, Minnesota Lynx

College: USC and Utah

Career college stats: 16.9 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.7 assists

She’ll play right away because: Though undersized, she’s a crafty scorer who has found a way to get buckets on anyone and everyone.

She’ll need to work on: Generously listed at 6-foot-2, Pili will need to work on being able to defend players who are bigger. 

She said it: “Shoot, I don’t think anything’s been easy about this. This transition (to the WNBA) has been tough.”

Did you know: At the draft, Pili honored her Native heritage by wearing a dress with a gold skirt covered in tribal print. The dress’s slit showed off Pili’s Polynesian tattoo, which wraps around her right leg from ankle to hip. Pili is Samoan and Alaska Native (Inupiaq).

Nika Muhl, Seattle Storm

Career college stats: 5.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, 5.2 assists

She’ll play right away because: The two-time Big East defensive player of the year, she’s one of the best on-ball defenders in the class, and is particularly good at locking down offensive stars.

She’ll need to work on: Staying out of foul trouble (it was a problem in college)

She said it: “Six fouls, honestly, I had no idea that is the case (in the WNBA). So I’m very excited about that.”

Did you know? Muhl has two tattoos for her younger sister Hana — one behind her left ear and another on her left hand. Hana plays basketball at Ball State. The sisters grew up in Croatia.

Email Lindsay Schnell at [email protected] and follow her on social media @Lindsay_Schnell