croatia road trip zagreb to dubrovnik

12 Best Stops on the Zagreb to Split to Dubrovnik Drive

Last Updated on January 30, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Croatia is one of the most popular places to visit in Southern Europe, with millions of tourists flocking to this diverse country every year. And though the country is quite well-connected by an extensive intercity bus network, sometimes the best way to see the highlights of Croatia is by embarking on a Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive.

There are so many places to stop and see between Croatia’s capital city of Zagreb and the incredibly popular coastal city of Dubrovnik.

While the drive between these two cities can take just over six hours on the motorway, it is worth taking your time and spending several days making your way between the two cities.

If you’re planning a road trip and want to know about the best places to visit between these major Croatian cities, follow this guide to make your trip to this beautiful Balkan nation a great one.

Table of Contents

Planning a Zagreb to Dubrovnik Road Trip

First and foremost, you’re going to need to have a car when embarking on your trip to Croatia. When it comes to hiring a vehicle, we recommend using RentalCars.com . This platform aggregates prices from available car hire companies to ensure that you get a great deal on your rental car.

Many visitors also wonder as to what kind of car they should hire — for instance, do you need to rent a 4×4 or are you fine with sticking to an affordable sedan or compact option?

Well, all of these stops on the drive are accessible on well-paved roads and require no off-roading. Therefore, there is really no need to rent anything but the most basic option while on a Croatian road trip.

The other thing that you need to consider when renting a car — especially if you want to make any of the stops on the Split to Dubrovnik drive part of this road trip — is to make sure that you can take your car across international borders and, especially, outside of the EU.

Your rental company will be able to tell you if you’re permitted to do this with the insurance provided in your rental terms. Make sure that you have everything in order before you plan any side trips into Bosnia & Herzegovina or risk getting turned away at the border.

It is also worth noting that once you have your car and you take to the road, many of the main motorways in Croatia have tolls, so it is something to be aware of.

If you take a toll road, you will get a ticket upon entering that you hand to the attendant when you exit the toll road. This will tell the attendant how long you were driving on the toll road and accurately calculate your fare, which will then be displayed on the screen.

Best Zagreb to Dubrovnik Drive Stops

Listed from north to south, these are the best places to see and visit if you’re driving from Zagreb to Dubrovnik (or vice versa).

Some of these stops you can get the gist of in an hour or less and some deserve to have a couple of days devoted to them. No matter how long you have allotted for your Croatia itinerary , these are all unmissable additions sure to make your trip a great one!

1. Plitvice Lakes National Park

Located about a two-hour drive south of Zagreb lies the incredible Plitvice Lakes National Park, and unmissable attraction on any drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

One of the most popular places to visit in Croatia (in fact, it sees the most tourists out of anywhere else in the country, after Dubrovnik), there is no denying that this is an incredibly natural site that is very much worth visiting.

While many people opt to visit the park as a day trip, if you want to get the most out of it and avoid the inevitable crowds (no matter what season you visit in), then we recommend spending a night near the park.

This will allow you to arrive as soon as it opens (which is 7 AM in the summer season and 8 AM in the winter season) and get to enjoy the gorgeous lakes and waterfalls before the hordes of tour groups arrive.

Even if you are only able to make a stop in Plitvice and can’t budget a night to spend here, plan to spend at least three or four hours to truly get to see the best of the park and be able to wander through both the upper and lower lakes, enjoy the boat ride included in your ticket, and just take in the incredible scenery.

A more off-beat stop on this drive is the island of Pag, which is located on the Dalmatian coast about 50 kilometres north of Zadar, this is an excellent place to visit if on the way from Zagreb to Split.

Pag is famous for its delicious cheeses. Though it is most well known for the eponymous Pag Sir — which is a sheep’s milk cheese that is similar to a Parmigiano-Reggiano — there are numerous different cheeses from sheep, cows, and goats made on the island that are all delicious.

You can easily reach the island by car via a bridge meaning there aren’t even any ferries to contend with. If you’re visiting in the warmer months, you will also love the ample coastline available for sunbathing and you can even get the opportunity to tour one of the dairies on the island!

One of the most popular (and most beautiful!) stops is going to the lovely and historic town of Zadar.

Though this small gem on the Adriatic sees only a fraction of the tourists that Split or Dubrovnik do, it is still growing in popularity and it isn’t hard to see why.

The Old Town boasts ancient ruins including a Roman Forum and old Venetian walls and the seaside promenade is one of the most inviting places to stroll no matter what season it is.

Though small, you can easily get lost in the picturesque Old Town and you also certainly wouldn’t be alone if you felt like you could lose yourself listening to the waves lap against the iconic Sea Organ.

Zadar is also one of the best places to stop for the night while you’re on your road trip as there are numerous accommodation options and also some really delicious restaurants to try!

And if you have a bit more time, consider heading out to explore some of the islands in the Zadar archipelago, such as tranquil Ugljan which is only about 30 minutes via ferry from the city.

4. Krka National Park

If you didn’t get enough views of beautiful lakes and waterfalls while visiting Plitvice Lakes or you were just a bit sore that it’s against the rules to swim in the inviting waters, then you’re sure to enjoy a stop at the lovely Krka National Park.

Located about 75 kilometres southeast of Zadar and about 85 kilometres north of Split, this park makes an excellent stop on the Zagreb to Split drive.

Krka is essentially a smaller version of Plitvice Lakes , where there are some beautiful waterfalls and lakes that you can wander around via wooden pathways and you can even swim in the crystal clear waters — something that is expressly forbidden at Plitvice Lakes!

Entry prices vary seasonally with costs being higher in the summer months. No matter which season you choose to visit, you are sure to enjoy your time at Krka National Park.

Another of the best places to spend a few hours if you’re driving between Zagreb and Dubrovnik is the charming town of Šibenik.

Located on the coast just south of Zadar and just north of Split, this beautiful and historic town is the perfect place to stop for a couple of hours.

You can easily get lost in the beautiful winding streets of its old town, marvel at its gorgeous cathedral, or enjoy a seaside stroll along the promenade. Šibenik is also home to a lot of great restaurants, so it’s the perfect place to stop for a bite to eat.

Trogir, located only about 30 kilometres north of Split, is one of the most popular day trips from Croatia’s second-largest city and an absolutely excellent stop on the trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

This lovely little town is situated on a small island that is connected to the mainland via a bridge. This is a great place to stop off for an hour or two to enjoy a leisurely stroll around the island on the picturesque promenade and to wander through the beautiful side streets in the historic old town.

It is also a great place to stop for a drink (if you’re not the designated driver!) or a coffee at a streetside cafe and watch the world go by.

I would recommend finding a place to park before crossing the bridge as it will be almost 50% less expensive and you will likely only have to walk about 200 metres extra. However, no matter where you end up parking, you are sure to enjoy this beautiful and compact little island town.

Split is an incredibly popular tourist destination and for good reason — its historic Old Town is absolutely beautiful and its main sites are well situated near each other, making sightseeing in this city easy to swallow.

Split is also a well-located base to explore a lot of other areas in the vicinity (especially the islands that are accessible by ferry from Split’s terminal).

Highlights of Split, of course, include the incredible, UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace complex, its lovely seaside promenade, and the wonderful views from Marjan Park.

Split also has a fantastic restaurant scene where you can sample some of the freshest seafood and other Dalmatian specialities cooked to their best.

You can see the main sites of Split in the span of an entire day, however, if you want to relax and enjoy yourself I would recommend spending at least two in this coastal city.

This is one of the stops on the Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive that I would suggest spending the longest in, especially if you want to visit some of the southern islands in the Adriatic Sea on your way to Dubrovnik.

An easy car ferry from Split and a good place to visit if you’ve got some time on your on the Split to Dubrovnik drive is the island of Brač.

A fairly large island located only about 20 kilometres off the coast of Split, Brač is gaining popularity as a tourist attraction and is a great place to experience some laid back Croatian island vibes.

Brač is most famous for its beaches, especially the picturesque Zlatni Rat beach — where the stunningly white sand juts dramatically in a conical shape into the water. There are also numerous other beaches to visit that aren’t going to be swarmed by tourists.

You can also spend your time driving around the island and exploring the lovely scenery, beautiful views, and charming towns.

Arguably the most popular Croatian island to visit and accessible by a car-ferry from Split is the island of Hvar. Hvar is known for its hard-partying dynamic and you can find exactly what you’re looking for on this beautiful island.

Take the time to explore the charming Stari Grad, the main port town on the island. Get lost in the beautiful lavender fields that dot the island — Hvar’s most famous export.

Hvar also has countless wineries that are worth visiting, beautiful beaches, and some fantastic restaurants. You can visit this island as a day trip while driving from Split to Dubrovnik or for a little bit longer — it all depends on your preferences.

Back on the Croatian mainland, one of the best and most picturesque stops on the Split to Dubrovnik portion of this road trip is the charming small town of Omiš.

This seaside town is very small and can be seen in an hour or less, however, it is well worth the stop off to stretch your legs and enjoy the lovely scenery.

Omiš is famous for its beautiful cliffs that just directly into the harbour and its expansive beaches that are perfect for swimming. There are lots of streetside and beachside cafes where you can enjoy a coffee or a drink, as well, and it is very much worth it to stop over in this lovely town.

11. Southwestern Bosnia & Herzegovina

If you want to be a bit more adventurous and venture outside of Croatia, then you can’t go wrong with exploring some of the beautiful sites located in the south of Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Some of these popular places to visit include the lovely Kravice Waterfalls, the fortress town of Počitelj overlooking the Neretva river, or the historic and incredibly beautiful Dervish monastery at Blagaj.

You will notice a distinct difference in the feel and history between Croatia and Bosnia and it is worth stopping over and exploring a bit of this lovely country when on the way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

12. Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

If you want to venture slightly further north into Bosnia & Herzegovina and see one of the most beautiful, historic, and heartbreaking cities in the country, you really cannot go wrong with making the town of Mostar your last stop before arriving in Dubrovnik.

Mostar is most famous for its iconic Stari Most, the beautiful arched bridge that slopes over the deep blue Neretva River, however, the city has a lot more to offer than just that.

Because of its proximity to both Split and Dubrovnik, many people opt to visit the city just as a day trip , however, you could easily spend a full day and night here to get the most out of the city.

Regardless of how long you choose to spend, there is no denying that Mostar is one of the absolute best stops and makes for a fantastic finale of this Zagreb to Dubrovnik road trip!

Where to Stay on Trip From Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Obviously, on any Croatia trip, you are going to want to find a place to stay in Zagreb, Split, or Dubrovnik.

On top of that, however, if you have more time to dedicate to this road trip, I would recommend resting your head overnight near Plitvice Lakes (so you can get there as early in the day as possible!) and in Zadar.

If you would rather find yourself a whole apartment or a private room in a local’s home, then a private rental is a good option for you.

There are numerous properties available — like this luxurious apartment in a quiet neighbourhood — we just wouldn’t recommend using it in Dubrovnik due to the burden on locals there.

Casablanca Boutique B&B   — A cosy boutique bed and breakfast that is great for couples or those looking for a bit of comfort and luxury. They have several rooms available, a central location, and a hearty breakfast included in the nightly rate. 

Hostel Mali Mrak  — A small hostel that is perfect for solo and budget travellers. They have both dorm and private rooms available, clean facilities, friendly staff, and great common areas to meet other travellers. 

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

Plitvice Lakes

House Turkalj — Located about 10 minutes drive from the national park entrance, this small family-run guest house is a great affordable option. They have a handful of private, ensuite rooms available with shared kitchen facilities as well as complimentary beer and rakija .

Falling Lakes Hostel — A good option for backpackers and budget travellers near Plitvice Lakes, this hostel offers both dorm and private rooms and also organise a shuttle to the national park entrance. There is also a great common area making meeting other travellers easy.

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

Rooms Tisa Old Town  — This lovely hotel located in the centre of Zadar is the perfect mid-range option for travellers. They have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available and a location in Zadar that cannot be beaten. 

Downtown Boutique Hostel  — A small and chic hostel centrally located in the old town. They offer both dorm beds and private rooms, have a friendly staff and great common areas to meet other travellers. 

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

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites  — A great option if you’re after more luxury, this boutique hotel has several spacious, clean, and comfortable rooms available. It is located within easy walking distance of all of Split’s main attractions and there is a great breakfast included.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  — A perfect backpacker, budget, or solo traveller option. This centrally-located hostel offers both dorm and private rooms, clean facilities, and great common areas for meeting fellow travellers in Split. 

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

Boutique Hotel Porto — Centrally located in the middle of the old town, this boutique hotel is the perfect romantic option for couples looking for a more luxurious getaway in Dubrovnik. They have a range of comfortable and stylish rooms available and is one of the highest-rated places in the city.

Old Town Hostel   — A hostel situated, you guessed it, in the old town, this highly-rated accommodation is great for budget and solo travellers. Offering both dorm and private rooms, they have a helpful staff, a common kitchen, and great areas to meet others. 

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

There are so many great stops to make when driving from Zagreb to Dubrovnik that the only thing you’re going to wish you had is more time in order to experience each incredible place to the max.

Are you planning to drive between Zagreb and Dubrovnik ? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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Ljubljana or Zagreb: Which City Should You Visit?

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Plitvice or Krka: Which Croatian National Park to Visit?

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

We are traveling from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. Then we want to go to Medjugorie. Can you drive over the border to Medjugorie? Can you drive over with a rented car from Zagreb?

You can definitely drive across the border to Bosnia from Croatia, however, I would check with your car hire company to see if crossing border is allowed or if you need to pay an additional fee to do so. It depends on the company you rent through.

Hi Maggie- we would to stop in istria and the island of krk on the same road trip. Do you have some comments on that. Mike

Istria is quite a bit out of the way on this route and it’s not really much “stop” so much as a destination in it’s own right. We have a great Istria itinerary if you’d like to check it out: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/istria-itinerary/

Great article! There are so many cute towns to see in Croatia 🙂 We loved Trogir!

Hi Maggie, Loved your itinerary, it’s the exact places that I am wanting to see but we will be coming from Venice to Pula, so starting in Pula. We have 7 days in Croatia and ideally I would love to have started from Dubrovnik to Zagreb bc we will be catching the overnight train from Zagreb to Switzerland. I wished we had more time to see everything. If we did Pula to Dubrovnik, stopping along the way, is it possible to just do the drive from Dubrovnik to Zagreb in one stretch?

Hi Sue, the drive from Dubrovnik to Zagreb is about 6 hours, so it’s definitely doable in one stretch if necessary 🙂

What do you recommend as a quick drive zagreb-dubrovnik and back? How many days is the minimum for a quick scenic road trip?

Hi Jean Claude, the Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive takes >6 hours in total without stopping, so there isn’t really a “quick” drive there and back. I would honestly recommend planning at least 7 days if you want to make one or two stops on the way and actually spend in both Zagreb, Dubrovnik and anywhere along the way.

Hi Maggy, great info about the road trip! Can you tell me is it worth making a detour up to Ljubljana and Lake Bled? We have 14 days I. Croatia and want to enjoy the Dalmatian coast bit Lake Bled looks irresistible! (Couple in our mortally late 50’s)😊

Hi Stewart, unfortunately, I think that Ljubljana/Bled is a bit far off course if you only have 2 weeks to dedicate to this road trip. I’d recommend sticking to Croatia this time around.

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Zagreb to Dubrovnik: the Ultimate 10-day Road Trip Itinerary

Total Croatia News

Updated on: May 11, 2023

The best way to discover Croatia is by car , giving you the freedom to go off the beaten path and chart your own adventure around the country, all the way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

Before we jump into it, do be aware that most car rentals in Croatia are manual transmissions! Automatic cars are available for rent, though mostly by larger rental companies like Sixt, and are more expensive.

If you’re not a confident driver, no need to worry, there are plenty of private bus companies that run daily trips to most cities and tourist attractions during the high season (June – September). In larger cities such as Zagreb and Split , bus schedules are also available online. Transfers between major ports and the islands are also regularly serviced by ferries and catamarans .

Day 1: Zagreb

Welcome to Zagreb, the capital and largest city of Croatia! Nicknamed the city of museums, Zagreb is home to over a dozen award-winning museums such as the Archeological Museum , with over 450,000 artifacts and monuments.

The gorgeous buildings of Upper Town in Zagreb. Visit Zagreb/Facebook.

Cultural landmarks of the city include Ban Jelačić Square which has existed since the 17th century, the Zagreb Cathedral , or the magnificent Croatian National Theater whose unveiling ceremony was attended by Austro-Hungarian Emperor Franz Joseph I. So, make sure you squeeze in some time for a walking tour to absorb the sights of Zagreb’s Old Town .

Evenings on Tkalčićeva Street, Zagreb. Visit Zagreb/Facebook.

Hungry? Head to Dolac market , Zagreb’s main open-air farmers market to pick up some fresh, seasonal produce and souvenirs. You can also choose to end your day with a tasty meal and local wine from any of the excellent restaurants, bars, and cafes along Tkalčićeva Street .

Day 2: Rovinj

After a bustling day in Zagreb, the enchanting city of Rovinj is a splendid change of pace. Perfectly situated on the Istrian peninsula, the city boasts a rich heritage, from being settled by Venetian tribes, to becoming part of the Byzantine and Frankish Empires, all reflected in the diversity of the city’s architecture, art, and culture.

This stunning setting has been a popular film setting for movies such as “The Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard”. Rovinj Tourist Board/Facebook.

The charming, picturesque streets of Rovinj’s Old Town. Rovinj Tourist Board/Facebook.

If you have time to spare, take a day trip to Sveta Katarina , a small picturesque island that’s a mere 10-minute water taxi ride from the pier. Spend the afternoon taking a dip in the aquamarine waters of the bay, or hike on one of the numerous trails dotted around the island, or both!

Alternatively, sit back and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches in Istria such as Amarin , Borik, or Valdaliso Beach .

Day 3: Pula

Before leaving the Istrian Coast, make Pula the next stop on your road trip. Serving as the capital of Istria, Pula was the main military port for the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy at the height of its military glory. Today, remnants of these times are reflected in the city’s breathtaking landscape.

The Pula Arena frequently hosts concerts and festivals throughout the year. Pula Plus/Facebook.

The famous Pula Arena , one of the most well preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world, is a must-see! Another not to be missed landmark is the Temple of Augustus , a monument dedicated to the first Roman emperor in honor of his rule.

The unique shape of Fort Puna Christo. Pula Plus/Facebook.

Also check out the impressive Fort Punta Christo , which includes an underground section to explore and a well-stocked rooftop bar for refreshments after. You can also enjoy magnificent 360-degree views of Pula from the Venetian Fortress (Kaštel) which also houses the Historical and Maritime Museum of Istria .

Day 4: Plitvice National Park

Although Croatia boasts some of the best coastlines in the world, Plitvice Lakes National Park consistently appears in the top must-see places to visit in Croatia, and for good reason! This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds the title as the oldest and largest national park in Croatia, famous for its gorgeous turquoise lakes. Well worth the detour inland.

Be aware that the park can get very crowded during the season! To avoid this, just be prepared to visit early (7-8am), or better still, stop by during off-peak seasons where the park transforms into the perfect winter wonderland.

Plitvice Lakes National Park/Facebook.

Day 5: Zadar

After a day in the lush forests, take a scenic drive back to the Dalmatian coast and spend a day in the charming city of Zadar , the oldest continuously inhabited Croatian city. Today, cozy cafes and art galleries are seamlessly woven into remains from the times of Julius Caesar and Emperor Augustus.

Enjoy a relaxing stroll through Old Town and admire the historical architecture including the Church of St. Donatus , the Landward Gate , the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, and the Roman Forum .

Ruins in the Old Town of Zadar. Zadar Region/Facebook

Along the way, catch the famous Sea Organ, and a sunset so beautiful, it even captivated Alfred Hitchcock! Just after sunset, take in the light show at the Sun Salutation , an installation created by Nikola Bašić, the same artist who designed the sea organ.

The Landward Gate, Zadar. Zadar Region/Facebook

If you have some time in between, head to Pag Island to try some of the famous Paski Cheese or to Nin , home to Queen’s Beach , the longest sandy beach in Croatia. Other gorgeous beaches along the coast of Zadar include Kolovare and Borik .

Award-winning sheep’s cheese from Pag Island. Pag Tourist Board/Facebook.

Day 6: Split

Welcome to Split, the largest city in Dalmatia, and second-largest in all of Croatia. The city was founded as the Greek colony of Aspálathos between the 3rd and 2nd century BC.

It was later where Diocletian’s Palace was built for the Roman emperor in AD 305. The palace also houses the Peristil , or the main square, another great place to enjoy some coffee and people-watch in addition to the Riva promenade .

Enjoy a drink inside the walls of the Diocletian’s Palace, Split. Visit Split/Facebook

While exploring the Old Town , stop by the Green Market , the largest farmer’s market in Split, to pick up some fresh, organic produce. Turn the corner and it is difficult to miss the 8.5-meter statue of Gregory of Nin , sculpted by world-renowned artist Ivan Meštrović . Rubbing the statue’s toe is said to bring good luck, so much so that it has been worn smooth by visitors over the years.

You can also squeeze in a light hike up Marjan Hill , also known as the “lungs of Split”. Its summit is an ideal place for a picnic, offering marvelous views of the harbor and neighboring islands.

The crystal clear waters of Bačvice beach. Visit Split/Facebook

Fancy another beach day? Bačvice beach is a popular hangout spot in the center of Split. Relax at one of the many cafe bars and watch the locals play picigin , a traditional ball game. Rumor has it this beach is also where the sport originates from.

Day 7: Krka/Omiš/Trogir

Some of the most stunning waterfalls in Croatia can be found at Krka National Park. Krka Nationa Park/Facebook

For nature lovers, Krka National Park is another national park about an hour’s drive from Split. Spend a day walking along well-maintained trails that wind along some of the most stunning waterfalls in the country. Again, make sure you get there early to avoid the crowds!

Try white water rafting in Omiš. Tourist Board Omiš/Facebook

For those craving more action, head to the picturesque town of Omiš which offers one of the most dramatic scenes on the coast. The city is nestled in a canyon surrounded by gray, craggy mountains, contrasting the peacock blue waters where the Cetina River meets the Adriatic Sea . Omiš offers white water rafting, free climbing, ziplining, abseiling, and canyoning, amongst other activities for visitors seeking a bit of a thrill on their vacation.

Just one of the many well-preserved remains scattered around Trogir’s Old Town. Visit Trogir/Facebook

For the history buff, head to Trogir which has the best-preserved Romanesque-Gothic complex in all of Central Europe. Take a walk around the Old Town , surrounded by walls comprising a series of dwellings and palaces from the Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque periods.

Day 8: Hvar

With over 1,000 islands , it wouldn’t be a complete trip to Croatia without doing some island hopping. From Split, take the 1-hour ferry ride over to Hvar . Its beauty and vibrant nightlife have made it a regular vacation spot for the likes of celebrities such as George Clooney and Beyonce.

Hvar is one of the longest and sunniest islands in Croatia. Hvar Tourist Board/Facebook

Start by wandering around St. Stephen’s Square , the largest square in Croatia and don’t miss the Cathedral of St. Stephen and the Hvar public theater . For the best view, climb to the top of the Španjola Fortress to get an unobstructed view overlooking Hvar Town and nearby Pakleni Islands . You can even rent a small boat (no license required) to explore these islands on your own!

The view from the top of the Španjola Fortress is unparalleled on the island. Hvar Tourist Board/Facebook

Once you’ve taken in all these sights, enjoy another relaxing beach day at one of the many pristine beaches such as Malo Zaraće , Dubovica, or Pokonji Dol .

Alternatively, if you’re looking for another day trip, book a tour with one of the local travel agencies to the Blue Caves on Biševo and marvel at its clear, iridescent blue waters.

Day 9: Korčula

After the buzz of Hvar, take the ferry to the tranquil town of Vela Luka on the island of Korčula , the birthplace of famed explorer Marco Polo and home to some of the best Croatian wines .

From Vela Luka , take a scenic drive towards the town of Korčula, also known as “little Dubrovnik”. Along the way, stop by the numerous family-run vineyards that welcome visitors for wine and cheese tastings.

Grk is a white wine variety grown almost exclusively on Korčula , other white wines such as Pošip and Rukatac are also premier Croatian wines, often served on celebratory occasions. For fans of red wine, do grab a bottle or 2 of Plavac Mali.

Vineyards of Korčula island. Visit Korčula/Facebook

In Korčula, walk off the afternoon’s indulgences exploring the streets of the Old Town with its architectural influences by the Venetian Renaissance, before capping off the night with a meal and more wine at any of its superb restaurants.

Korčula town. Visit Korčula/Facebook

Day 10: Dubrovnik

There’s no better way to end the trip than with Dubrovnik . And yes, there is no shortage of Game of Thrones tours to indulge your senses, but there is so much more to this medieval city than where Cersei Lannister did her walk of shame.

The beautiful Saint Blaise’s Church in Dubrovnik was built during the 10th century. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

Talk a walk along the city walls and through Stradun , Dubrovnik’s main street. From here, you can also catch Onofrio’s Large Fountain that used to supply Dubrovnik with fresh water during the Middle Ages and other impressive structures including the Clock Tower , Saint Blaise’s Church , Saint Ignatius Church , Cathedral of the Assumption, and the Franciscan Monastery .

The view from beyond the walls of Dubrovnik looking upon Fort Lovrijenac. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

Watch the sunsets and reminisce on your amazing road trip through the country at one of the cliff bars along the city walls, before capping it all off with an exquisite meal at one of the many Michelin-starred or recommended restaurants Dubrovnik has to offer.

Nothing like a luscious meal to top off a fantastic experience road-tripping in Croatia. Dubrovnik Tourist Board/Facebook

And that’s all folks, you’ve done it! Croatia in 10 days! Bear in mind, this is merely the appetizer of what Croatia has to offer. Customize this guide to better suit your tastes and pace and remember, don’t hesitate to ask the locals in order to unlock the best secrets each location has to offer.

For more on travel in Croatia, follow TCN’s dedicated page .

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Home > Croatia Road Trip From Dubrovnik to Zagreb (And Stops In Between)

Croatia Road Trip From Dubrovnik to Zagreb (And Stops In Between)

Written by our local expert Ana

Croatian born Ana is an avid traveler who is always looking for the next travel story from the Balkans to share. Her passion is creating travel itineraries and in-depth guides.

Croatia road trip tips. Here is the perfect itinerary when driving from Dubrovnik to Zagreb and the must-see stops In between.

From its days as an eastern outpost of Rome to its position at the front line between the Habsburg and Ottoman empires to its initiation as a member of the Socialist Federative Republic of Yugoslavia, Croatia’s culture and history have long been deeply entwined with its neighbors.

Independent since the ’90s, for me, Croatia feels like a nation searching for its own identity – with each region having a different idea of what that identity should look like.

The sun-dappled coastal south and west look very Mediterranean, whereas the northern and eastern interior feels every bit as Mitteleuropean as Prague and Vienna.

This diversity, coupled with the country’s limited rail network, makes Croatia an excellent road trip destination. If you’re keen to explore as much of this stunning country as possible , read on to find out how we planned and completed our own grand Croatia road trip.

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

When To Visit Croatia

Despite only being about a quarter of the size of the UK, Croatia has an extremely varied climate. Coastal Dalmatia and Istria enjoy warm summers and mild winters, whereas Central Croatia and Slavonia experience far greater temperature extremes.

Unsurprisingly, this leads to a significant difference in tourist numbers and, therefore, prices during the peak months. We recommend visiting at the following times .

With temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius and tourists flocking by the boatload to the major cities ( particularly Dubrovnik ), July and August should be avoided if at all possible.

Take advantage of the shoulder months . June and September will be a little cooler and considerably less busy , plus a fair bit cheaper. We visited in late May, and the weather on the coast was perfect. However, outside of the main tourist areas, we found some bars and restaurants were closed, and on the few occasions when we stayed in hotels rather than apartments, there were just a handful of other guests.

While undoubtedly beautiful at the height of summer, Istria really comes into its own in spring and autumn when the main tourist crush has abated.

You’ll be able to survive in a T-shirt as early as March and as late as October, and it’ll be much easier to get a table at one of the many fine restaurants that make the region a must-visit for foodies.

Central Croatia

Winter in Central Croatia brings temperatures plummeting to just above freezing, and snow isn’t uncommon. While these conditions are fine for a spot of sightseeing in Zagreb , they’re less than ideal if you’re planning to visit major outdoor attractions like the beautiful Plitviče Lakes.

That said, if snow-covered hills and Christmas markets are your thing, you’ll love a Central Croatia road trip in winter.

The only Croatian region that still feels largely undiscovered by tourists, Slavonia is – unusually – at its quietest in summer, when the local population traditionally head for the coast.

You’ll be able to enjoy bargain prices at this time of year, but you’ll need to deal with the often roasting heat. Harvest-time (August and September) is an excellent opportunity to explore Slavonia’s countless traditional farmhouses and wineries .

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Tips for traveling by road in croatia.

While we spent plenty of time planning our Croatian road trip , it’s fair to say we didn’t get everything right. Learn from our successes and (numerous) failures, such as:

The Adriatic Highway Is Your Friend

This beautiful road – also known, less poetically, as the “D8” – runs the length of Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coast, from the Slovenian border to the north all the way to Montenegro in the south (incorporating a brief and unavoidable trip through Bosnia and Herzegovina ).

Truly one of the great driving roads of the Mediterranean, it offers incredible views of azure seas and red-tiled rooftops, punctuated by sweeping corners that bypass beautiful hidden coves and tiny, picturesque fishing villages.

The highway became a constant and reassuring travel companion throughout the Dalmatian section of our road trip, and we felt a pang of melancholy when we were finally forced to say goodbye and head inland. It’s the road you’ll drive on almost continuously on a Dubrovnik to Pula road trip, for instance. In the other direction, it’s the route for a Zadar to Dubrovnik road trip on the Croatia coast.

Stay Off The Motorways (Unless You’re In A Hurry)

Part of the joy of a driving holiday is the freedom it offers. If you spot a glorious view, a cute place to stop for a picnic, or a charming little village , you can simply pull over and explore to your heart’s content. Croatia’s motorways offer none of those benefits.

These soulless stretches of tarmac may be the quickest way to get from A to B by car, but they typically achieve this by bypassing anything that you’d actually like to see. What’s more, you’ll have to pay to use them, and while they may offer a faster journey than smaller roads, they often take a longer route.

This means they’re unpopular with a lot of Croatians, so you might find yourself driving for extended periods without seeing many – or any – other vehicles on these faintly sinister roads. Avoid unless you’re on a tight itinerary and can’t afford the luxury of a slightly longer journey time.

Plan Time For Detours

In a similar vein, all but the most time-poor road trippers should allow some time for spur-of-the-moment diversions. You’ll inevitably pick up recommendations from people you meet along the way or merely spot an intriguing road sign and decide to see where it takes you.

We only visited the gorgeous island city of Trogir on a whim, having been urged to do so by a woman we met in Sutivan, and our decision to spend a night on the island of Pag was made on the morning we were due to leave Zadar.

It doesn’t pay to restrict yourself with a rigid Croatia driving itinerary . You’re on holiday after all.

Don’t Rely Solely On Your Satnav (GPS)

Driving allows you to see much more of Croatia than traveling by public transport, and you should definitely take advantage of that fact.

But if our road-trip experience is anything to go by, your trusty satnav will become increasingly useless the further you venture off the beaten track. On Pag, we were directed down numerous roads that ended at private houses or narrow tracks leading down precipitous hillsides.

In short, make sure you have some backup for when your GPS tries to kill you. Outlining your tour of Croatia route on a prepared Croatia road trip map is probably a good idea.

Advice For Planning A Two-Week Croatia Road Trip

Sadly, not everyone – us included – has the luxury of spending months at a time on the road.

Itinerary planning is therefore essential . You don’t want to bite off more than you can chew as you’ll constantly be on the move. On the other, though, there’s so much to see in Croatia that you won’t want to spend too long in a single place. And most of all, you certainly want to avoid wasting valuable time doubling back on yourself. So, how to spend 14 days in Croatia?

With this in mind, our 11-day Croatia road trip itinerary took in the towns and cities we were most desperate to visit, plus a couple of islands and the gorgeous Plitviče Lakes National Park, all without us having to retrace our steps until the final hop back to Dubrovnik . Below is the outline of our road trip through Croatia from Dubrovnik to Zagreb.

Day one: Pick up a hire car at Dubrovnik Airport. Drive to Dubrovnik Day two: Explore Dubrovnik Day three: Drive to Split Day four: Leave the car in Split . Passenger ferry to Brač, stay in Sutivan Day five: Ferry to Split, drive to Trogir, then on to Zadar Day six: Explore Zadar Day seven: Drive to Povljana, on the island of Pag Day eight: Drive to Grabovac to explore Plitviče Lakes, National Park Day nine: Drive to Zagreb Day ten: Drop off hire car at Zagreb Airport , fly back to Dubrovnik Day eleven: Fly home

Not-To-Be-Missed Experiences

As well as famous attractions like Plitviče Lakes and Dubrovnik’s panoramic cable car , there are plenty of lesser-known experiences that shouldn’t be missed. They might not be the main reason you chose to visit Croatia , but there’s every chance they’ll end up being your favorite part of your road trip from Dubrovnik to Zagreb.

Eat In Family-Run Konobas

In recent years, the rest of the world has been forced to sit up and take notice of Croatia’s fantastic culinary scene .

Fine dining is abundant, but sometimes you’ll feel the desire to forego the haute cuisine in favor of something a little heartier. On those occasions, you should seek out your nearest konoba. These are traditional, often family-run Croatian eateries that serve delicious regional specialties like Istrian minestrone and grilled sardines.

Best of all, konobas are typically much cheaper than the gourmet restaurants and hotels that are prevalent in tourist-heavy cities such as Dubrovnik and Split . If you’d like to save some money during your road trip around Croatia , eating out in konobas is an excellent option to have.

Sunbathe On The Rocks In Dubrovnik

Fancy soaking up the sun in Dubrovnik , but want to avoid the overpriced beach clubs?

Look no further than Buža Bar, which is accessible via an inconspicuous hole in the grand Old Town city walls . The drinks aren’t exactly cheap by Croatian standards, but there’s no need to rent a sun lounger. Instead, lay down your towel on the smooth rocks and spend the afternoon diving into the crystal clear waters of the Adriatic .

• Is Dubrovnik Worth Visiting?

Explore Zadar’s Bar Scene

It might be less well-known than Dubrovnik and Split, but Zadar can make a pretty convincing case for possessing Croatia’s best bar scene.

The Old Town is littered with trendy watering holes . Expect to find your new favorite bar lurking around every corner. There really is something for everyone, from foodie delights like The Garden to student hotspots such as Kult and artsy, bohemian enclaves like Djina. Just don’t forget to line your stomach if you plan to explore them all!

Break Up Your Drive By Visiting Roadside Picnic Spots

Stick to the Adriatic Highway, and you’ll come across countless gorgeous places to pull over and enjoy a simple but delicious packed lunch of crusty bread and olive oil . After all, when the weather and scenery are this spectacular, who wants to be stuck in a restaurant?

Ready to start your Croatia road trip ? Driving from Dubrovnik to Zagreb is easy and fun , so give it a go, and let us know your thoughts below when you do.

We’ve also got another fabulous road trip itinerary, from Trogir to Dubrovnik, here!

Comments (3).

This itinerary is exactly what me and my husband are looking for! We are planning a 10-11 day trip and we were originally thinking of doing Zagreb – Dubrovnik but your way sounds much more direct. Which direction would you recommend? We know we would need a rental car for the entire trip, but our only concern is leaving the car in Split when we take a ferry to Brac or Hvar island. Were you able to leave your car with the rental company and pick it up when leaving Split?

Also if you don’t mind me asking what was the total cost of your trip? I am working on a budget to determine how much everything will cost.

Thank you so much!

My wife and I are planning a 11 day driving trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik in mid September of this year. Is it absolutely necessary to have hotel reservations in advance for each and every night or can we take a chance without them?

In September you can totally wing it.

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Ultimate Croatia road trip - Drive from Dubrovnik to Zagreb

Trying to plan the perfect Croatia road trip? With so much incredible diversity - sapphire coastlines, ancient cities, jaw-dropping landscapes and sensational cuisine, to name just a few - creating the perfect Croatia driving itinerary can prove to be something of a daunting task.

Not to worry; we've got you covered with the ultimate road trip plan starting in Dubrovnik and finishing in Zagreb. It features all the best places to see and things to do in Croatia, including island-hopping, sight-seeing, wine tasting, and visiting the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park .

From wild peacock-inhabited beaches and secret gardens to quirky museums and top-notch restaurants with sensational views, here's how to spend 10 incredible days exploring this paradise on the Adriatic Sea - no matter what time of year you visit .

Day 1: Dubrovnik - Fly into Dubrovnik and explore the Pearl of the Adriatic

For ease of flying in, begin your Croatia road trip in Dubrovnik, famously described by Lord Byron as 'the Pearl of the Adriatic.'

The international Dubrovnik Airport has direct flights from cities all over the world including London, Madrid and Prague. Plus, it's just 15.5km from the city centre (that's a 30 minute drive or about 40 minutes by bus.)

Pick up your rental car from the airport and head west into town.

Note that there's no parking in the old centre, which is completely pedestrianised, but you should be able to find a spot in Gruz harbour for about 100 kuna (£12) per day.

For more detailed information about touring Croatia by car, check out our Driving in Croatia blog post , featuring info on tolls, roundabouts and general road rules.

Walk around Old Town and spot the Game of Thrones filming locations

Once you've checked into your hotel and unloaded your things, it's time to explore - and the UNESCO-listed old town is a great place to start.

Have a wander around and keep your eyes peeled for sights and landmarks you recognise from TV (Game of Thrones fans - you know who you are!)

Top tip: If you're into museums and would like to see as many as possible during your stay, it might be worth purchasing a Dubrovnik city card .

Dubrovnik, which was first founded back in the 7th century, wears its history on its sleeve.

Around every corner you'll find ancient buildings like the Arboretum Tsteno, ornate 15th-century drinking fountains, and the remarkably well preserved medieval city walls.

Every little part of the city looks constantly poised for a picture, especially the impossibly shiny marble streets that are polished daily to preserve their sheen. In fact, Croatia is so famous for its marble that the USA imported the stuff to build the White House.

Marvel at the grand Rector's Palace

A massive earthquake in 1667 destroyed many of the Renaissance buildings in Dubrovnik, but a few still survive - including your first sightseeing stop, the Rector's Palace .

Flanked by grand marble pillars and and finely carved archways, this spectacular palace is quite the sight to behold and most definitely deserves to be on your Dubrovnik itinerary.

It was built in the late 15th century as a residence for the Rector, who governed the former Republic of Regusa, as Croatia was once known.

Due to multiple rebuilds and additions over the years, you'll be able to see a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles.

And Game of Thrones will no doubt recognise the atrium, which was used to represent the Spice King's palace in the TV programme.

These days the Rector's Palace houses Dubrovnik's Cultural History Museum, featuring artfully restored rooms, portraits of Ragusan aristocrats, and the original keys to the city.

Thanks to its impressive acoustics, the palace also hosts super popular concerts during the yearly Dubrovnik Summer Festival between mid-July and late August.

Head to Sponza palace

Once you've had enough of the Rector's Palace, wander north towards Sponza Palace.

On your way, at the very end of Stradun (the main street), you'll pass the iconic Clock Tower, a magnificent 31-metre-tall monument that dates back to the 15th century.

Every hour, two bronze figures that locals have nicknamed Maro and Baro chime the two-tonne antique bell, sending forth a pleasant tune.

It's worth seeing the clock tower in the daytime as well as the night, when it comes to life with lights.

Next, head into the main courtyard of Sponza Palace, which is free to enter. Don't bother buying tickets to enter the palace, as there's not much to see inside, but it's worth having a look around the tranquil courtyard for a few minutes of peace.

Get yourself some Croatian cuisine

No doubt you've worked up an appetite by now, so it's time to sample some delicious Croatian delicacies.

Fresh seafood, juicy oysters, rich black risotto and local wines abound in this part of the world, which means you can expect to eat very well over the next few days.

The intimate and super casual Barba restaurant is a Dubrovnik institution, famous for its fresh fish dishes and iconic octopus burger. It's a little pricey, but it's worth it for the atmosphere and unique experience!

Walk along the old city walls

Octopus burger - done. Now it's time to see more of Dubrovnik.

One activity that's pretty much obligatory in Dubrovnik is walking around the city walls, which provide ever-changing views over the sea and the old town.

The whole circuit is just over a mile long, so even the least fit among you should be up for it (just remember to bring some water with you, especially if you're doing it in the heat of the summer).

The city walls are open daily from 8am to 7pm in the summer and 9am to 3pm in the winter (admission fee is 100 kuna and includes a visit to the Lovrijenac Fort.)

Go on a sunset funicular ride

Have a rest in your hotel room before heading out again to take in the sights at great heights aboard the Dubrovnik cable car.

The four-minute journey is quick and admittedly a tad pricey, but it's entirely worth it for the spectacular views of the blue Adriatic Sea - especially if you go at sunset.

Dinner in Dubrovnik

For dinner, you have a whole assortment of options in Old Town ranging from authentic Croatian eateries to uber trendy bars.

At the friendly and intimate D'Vino Wine Bar , you can sample their selection of more than 60 Croatian wines, paired with tapas and delectable cheese boards.

If you're into your wine, here's a fun fact: It was recently discovered that the Zinfandel grape, which is widely grown in California, originates from Croatia. Why not order a glass of the real deal?

If it's a special occasion or you're just in the mood for dinner with a view, head to the Above 5 Rooftop restaurant.

You'll have to climb up quite a few stairs to get there, but the reward is fantastic views and even better food. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Day 2: Dubrovnik to Split - Go on a boat trip & start your Croatia road trip with a drive to Split

Get stuck into the croatian coffee culture.

Today your Croatia road trip officially kicks off - huzzah!

But first things first: coffee.

Croatia has a very strong coffee culture and Dubrovnik is home to a happy mix of traditional streetside cafes and trendy third-wave roasters serving up fancy but delicious brews.

Today, wake up and get your caffeine fix at Soul Caffe & Rakhija Bar, which is hidden in a small side street like a delicious breakfast secret.

Catch a boat to Lokrum Island

Dubrovnik is great, don't get us wrong, but thanks to a swell in Croatia tourism recently it can get just a little bit overcrowded at times.

That's what makes Lokrum Island, just 600m off the coast, so very alluring. That, and the wild rabbits and peacocks roaming freely around the unspoilt beaches, of course.

Pick up some snacks and bottled water, pack your waterproof shoes and head to the Old Port to catch a ferry to Lokrum (these run every 30 minutes in high season and the journey takes 15 to 20 minutes).

The island is Dubrovnik's natural playground, where you can spend the morning swimming, hiking, picnicking and exploring the ruins of an old Benedictine monastery.

After enjoying your picnic lunch, pack up and hop on a boat back to mainland before the midday heat kicks in.

Then collect your things at the hotel and throw them into your car; it's time to drive to the next stop.

Drive from Dubrovnik to Split

A couple of things you need to know about driving from Dubrovnik to Split.

First, the journey passes briefly through Bosnia and Herzegovina, so have your passport ready to show at the border.

Second, the coastal route (known as the Magistrale) takes slightly longer - just over four hours - than the inland toll road, but it's lighter on the wallet and easier on the eyes. You make the call!

Split is often overlooked in favour of its better known neighbour to the south, but the second largest city in Croatia has a whole lot going for it.

Funky galleries, popular hiking paths and one of the most imposing palaces you'll ever see… these are the things that give Split its unique appeal.

Parking in Split

The annoying thing about a Croatia road trip as that more often than not, finding a good, cheap and safe parking spot in these types of ancient, pedestrianised towns is a nightmare.

But lucky for road trippers like you, Split has a covered parking garage on Domovinskog rata Street in the city centre with ample spaces.

Drivers can leave their car in Acorus Garage for 1-3 days at a rate of 15 €/per day (in cash).

Head to the website in advance of your trip to reserve a spot.

Once you're parked, unload your suitcase, find your hotel and check into your room. Have a shower or a rest before setting out to explore this exuberant city on the scenic Dalmatian coast.

Dinner and drinks in Split old town

At night, Old Town Split teems with tourists and locals eating, drinking and walking around the labyrinthine marble streets.

Get stuck in straight away by grabbing a pizza at a terrace restaurant or seeking out some fresh seafood and Croatian wine.

For a taste of local nightlife, head to the bars that line the tangle of streets behind the 15th-century Diocletian's Palace , Split's main attraction.

The popular Gaga Caffe bar is known for its buzzing atmosphere and dangerously cheap cocktails, while the pleasantly kitschy Academia Ghetto Club has a bohemian vibe.

You could also get a sneak peek at tomorrow's sightseeing destination by heading to the library jazz club Marcvs Marvlvs Spalatensis, which is housed within the aforementioned palace.

Day 3: Split - Hiking, sightseeing & beach

Start your day right with an early morning trip to the Green Market on Stari pazar, right next to the palace walls.

Here you'll find dozens of vendors hawking local produce, freshly baked bread and tasty Croatian snacks.

It's the perfect place for an al fresco breakfast before doing some exercise.

Climb up Marjan Hill - the 'lungs' of the city

Bring along a bottle of water and navigate to the bottom of Marjan Hill, Split's nature playground.

It's a three-kilometer journey to the top of the hill, but luckily most of the pathways are lined with lush trees that provide much needed shade from the strong Croatian sun.

It should take you about two hours round-trip, and you can follow up your excursion with a hearty lunch in the town centre.

Step back in time at Diocletian's Palace

Next stop: Diocletian's Palace (in the light of day this time!)

The most amazing thing about Split's most popular attraction is that it's seamlessly integrated into the city itself, forming about half of the old town.

As such, most of it is free to roam around, although you do have the option of paying to climb the bell tower and access various other sections.

To get the full experience, buy a ticket that grants access to all areas of the Palace including the crypt, the treasury and the incredible St Domnius Cathedral, also known as St Duje's Cathedral.

The latter is a repurposed Imperial Roman mausoleum, originally built in 305 AD, with a distinctive octagonal shape.

The cathedral's bell tower, built much later between the 13th and 16th centuries, is a real highlight, and - as long as you're not claustrophobic - the climb to the top is worth it for the sensational views.

The wonderfully intact Temple of Jupiter, situated in the western part of Diocletian's Palace, is also worth peeping into.

Don't forget to look up at incredibly intricate design on the coffered ceiling.

Head to Bacvice beach for an afternoon of leisure

Sightseeing over; time to chill out.

Beaches are not exactly Split's strong suit (compared to some other destinations you'll visit on your Croatia road trip), but the sandy Bacvice Beach is ridiculously convenient (about a 15 minute walk from the city centre) and this is a holiday, after all!

Rent a sunbed for 100 kuna and spend the rest of the afternoon lounging in the sun.

Keep an eye out for locals playing Picigin, a popular Croatian game where people stand in a circle in shallow water and bat a small ball around with their hands.

When you're ready to leave the beach, buy an ice cream along the Riva and get lost exploring the city's narrow pedestrian streets on your way back to your hotel.

Then treat yourself to a traditional Croatian dinner of octopus salad or a serving of crni rizot (black risotto).

Day 4: Ferry from Split to Hvar

Check out of your room, collect your car and make your way to the port to hop on a ferry.

With so many different beaches and sights to see on the island of Hvar, it's great to have your own car there so you can check them out at your own pace.

Car ferries go from Split to Hvar several times a day in both peak times and the off season, with the journey taking just under two hours.

Book your tickets in advance at the Jadrolinija website so you're good to go on the day.

Take the car ferry from Split to Hvar island

Once you arrive on the island, breathe in the air; Hvar is world-famous for its fragrant fields of lavender, which come into full bloom in June and July.

Go for a drive around Hvar on your way to your hotel and check out the pristine beaches, elegant restaurants and unbelievable natural beauty that make this island the perfect holiday destination.

While beaches are not necessarily Split's strong point, they are most certainly one of the best aspects of Hvar.

Whether you're looking for serene and secluded coves or party-friendly beach bars, you'll find it on this island of dreams.

One particular seaside paradise is located in the village of Zarace, in west Hvar on the south coast. It's little and quiet, far removed from the bustling scenes around Hvar Town.

Bring your towel and waterproof shoes (it's a little bit rocky around here) and enjoy the crystal blue waters.

Dinner in Hvar Town

After a day spent sunbathing and swimming, you'll want to treat yourself to a hearty and happy evening meal. We're thinking seafood - Hvar's speciality.

Head to Hvar Town in the early evening, before the sunset casts a golden glow on the town's ancient stone buildings.

Most of the bars and restaurants are concentrated around St Stephen's Square, the main hub of activity.

Bunar restaurant in Hvar Old Town is super popular thanks to their menu of deliciously fresh seafood dishes and locally sourced ingredients. The ultra friendly staff and wonderful ambience are the cherry on top.

Round out the night with a drink at one of the many cocktail and wine bars in the area - or, if you're up for it, get your groove on in one of the lively late-night spots (Carpe Diem, we're looking at you!)

Prepare to get delightfully lost walking around the narrow stone passages that make up this centuries-old town.

Day 5: Hvar - Hiking, winery and amazing dinner

Rise and shine! It's time for another day in paradise.

Grab yourself some breakfast, a strong coffee and bottled water at your hotel. Then slather on some sunscreen and strap on your walking shoes - it's time for some outdoor exercise.

Climb to Hvar Fortress for sensational views

Between the 13th and 18th centuries, Hvar was an important naval base as well as a centre for trade and culture.

The magnificent Hvar Fortress, aka Fortica, which stands proud at a high point overlooking the city, is a testament to the power and strength of the region during the medieval era.

The 20 minutes-or-so climb up to this scenic vantage point is half the fun!

It begins in the back streets of Old Town, winding gradually uphill through the forest along shaded pathways.

Once you reach the fortress, skip the entrance fee (there's not much to see inside) and instead check out the views from the cafe at the top.

Note: If you or your Croatia road trip companion has mobility issues, you can also drive up to the fortress - there's plenty of free parking at the summit.

Go on a mini Hvar road trip

You've got your own car at your disposal - today, let's use it.

So far you've seen the charms of Hvar Town, but there's a lot more to this Dalmatian island than just its biggest town.

Here are some great spots to include on your Hvar drive:

Stari Grad: Quieter and more laid-back than the buzzing Hvar Town, Stari Grad is all peaceful cobbled streets, blossom-covered buildings and inviting terrace restaurants - with a lovely harbour to boot.

If you've got time, visit the Renaissance-era Tvrdalj Castle, known for its pleasant shaded garden and the tranquil find inside.

Stari Grad is between 20 to 30 minutes away by car from Hvar Town.

Tomic Winery: Hvar is famous for producing a particular red wine called Plavac Mali, and Tomic Winery, located in the town of Jelsa, is the place to go if you want to sample it.

Book a tasting in advance for the chance to sample the best of the best in Tomic's intimate underground Roman-style wine cellars.

Sveta Nedelja: You won't see many tourists in this tiny village in southern Hvar - and that's precisely its appeal.

Grapevines are interspersed with rosemary bushes and lavender fields, and the island's highest peak, St Nikola, stands guard in the background.

Pokrivenik Bay: On the north coast of Hvar, sandwiched between forested cliffs on either side, is the secret Pokrivenik Bay.

Keep your walking shoes or waterproof shoes close at hand, as this beach is a pebbly one!

Dinner at the best restaurant in town

Once you've completed your Hvar road trip, head back to the hotel and have a relaxing bath or shower before going out to dinner.

Dalmatino, a steak and fish house, is widely regarded as the best restaurant in Hvar Town (book a table beforehand to guarantee a spot).

For a meal with a view, order some calamari and homemade pasta at Grande Luna, which has a fabulous open-roof terrace.

Day 6: Ferry from Hvar to Trogir

Miles: 54.5

Have a lie in this morning before treating yourself to a traditional Croatian breakfast of coffee, anchovies and bread with pasteta (paté).

Then pack up your things and get ready to continue on with your epic Croatia road trip.

Arrive at the ferry port early and ride on the boat back to Split. From there, it's a 45 minute drive along the Adriatic coast to the small island town of Trogir, known as the Little Venice of Dalmatia.

Often overshadowed by its better known neighbours, Trogir is most definitely worthy of a visit in its own right.

Sure, there's not much to do here except wander around the historic centre, sit in streetside cafes and marvel at the scenery… but really, what else do you need?

Once you've dropped your things in your hotel room, go out and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the UNESCO-listed medieval town, which is protected by remarkably well preserved 15th-century walls.

If you're feeling peckish, the area around the waterfront Riva has plenty of restaurants serving up fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas and Dalmatian specialities.

Visit St Lawrence Cathedral

Of course, if you're dying for some sightseeing there are a handful of places to see and explore.

As the tallest building in town, you can't possibly miss St Lawrence Cathedral, known among the locals as St John.

This impressive structure is a melange of architectural styles including Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque, reflecting Croatia's long and storied past.

Be sure to climb up to the bell tower on your visit for spectacular views of the surrounding area.

Just a few minutes' walk from the cathedral is Kamerlengo Castle, built by the Venetians in the 15th century. You can't go inside, but it's worth climbing up and doing a tour around the walls for views of the boats floating in the harbour below.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the delightfully laid-back atmosphere in Trogir.

Try to have an early night, as well; we have big plans ahead for tomorrow.

Day 7: Drive Trogir to Plitvice Lakes

It's another early morning today! Wake up early, pack your things and hit the road.

It's a four hour journey to your next Croatia road trip stop: Plitvice Jezera, home of the famous Plitvice Lakes National Park,which is widely considered one of the most beautiful parks in the world.

You may recognise its stunning waterfalls from postcards and travel blogs, but even the photos don't do it justice. This place truly has to be seen to be believed.

Spend the day at Plitvice Lakes National Park

Exploring the ins and outs of this spectacular 73,350-acre park will take all day, with 16 natural lakes and dozens of jaw-droppingly gorgeous waterfalls to discover.

Park your car in one of the parking zones for 6 euros, then wait for a shuttle bus to take you to the entrance of the park.

Be sure to take a selfie in front of the highest waterfall, Veliki Slap.

There are quite a few hotels in Plitvice that are reasonably priced and easy to get to after a day of lake-spotting.

Take it easy tonight and have a low-key dinner at your hotel before setting off tomorrow for more road tripping.

Day 8: Drive Plitvice to Rovinj

Next stop on your Croatia road trip is the city of Rovinj, located on an egg-shaped headland along the western coast of the Istrian peninsula.

Once an old fishing town, Rovinj today is immensely charming, with its historic city centre and tangle of quaint cobbled streets attracting visitors year after year.

Spend the afternoon exploring Rovinj

Like Trogir, Rovinj does not have loads of museums, historic sites or tourist attractions - and that's exactly where its charm lies.

The best thing to do here is simply walk around and admire the cobbled streets and colourful pink and yellow houses rising up from the azure sea.

If you're visiting Croatia with your other half, it doesn't get much more romantic than Rovinj.

Explore the bohemian Grisia neighbourhood, filled with boutique shops and art galleries, for the best photo ops.

To get a taste for authentic Rovinj life, embark on a boat tour around the harbour in a batana - a traditional type of fishing boat that's been in use here for hundreds of years.

Head to the Batana House Eco-Museum to learn more about boat tour schedules.

Feast on truffle-covered everything

What Rovinj lacks in tourist sites it more than makes up for in food!

Despite its small size, Rovinj boasts a truly incredible dining scene, with a pleasant mix of Croatian, Italian and Mediterranean cuisines.

In particular, this part of the world is famous for its penchant for (read: obsession with) truffles.

Head to any one of the restaurants and eateries in Rovinj, and you'll likely find truffles on the menu. Restoran Sante Croce is known for its fabulous location and signature truffle sauce.

Meanwhile, the nearby Monte restaurant was recently awarded the first Michelin star in the country.

P.S. If you're bonkers about truffles the way the Istrians are, consider booking a Wine and Truffle tour around the peninsula.

Truffle Hunting Croatia has a number of options, from bike tours to drives through the nearby Motovun forest.

Day 9: Drive to Pula for a day trip

Enjoy a strong coffee this morning before embarking on a day trip to Pula, about 45 minutes away by car at the southern tip of the Istrian peninsula.

You may know Pula as the location of the world-famous Outlook Festival, which is held in the ancient Roman-era Pula Arena and attracts thousands of music lovers every summer.

But there's countless other reasons to visit this delightful fishing port on the Adriatic, from its unspoilt beaches to its alluring wine-making traditions.

Catch a glimpse of the ancient Roman Pula Amphitheatre

Pula's proximity to Italy (it's a 3-hour ferry ride from Venice) can be felt not only in its classical architecture, but also its refined culture and its old-world feel.

Nowhere is this more apparent than at the 1st-century Amphitheatre de Pula - the sixth largest amphitheatre in the world.

The incredibly well-preserved monument, which once hosted gladiator battles and medieval fairs, is quite the sight, and when you see it, you can't help but feel like you've stepped back in time to ancient Rome.

Top tip: Don't bother paying the entrance fee to go inside; it's enough to see this masterpiece of architecture from afar as you meander through the city.

If you feel like an outdoor adventure, drive south another 30 or 40 minutes until you reach Cape Kamenjak nature park, at the very end of the Istrian peninsula.

The beaches here are sensational, with blue-green water that's popular among cliff-divers, snorkellers, kayakers and windsurfers.

There's plenty of parking available near all the best beaches, and the laid-back Safari Bar is the perfect place to unwind after a day in the sun.

Dinner in Rovinj

Towel off and jump back in your car to head back to Rovinj for the night.

Satisfy that seafood craving with dinner at the cliffside La Puntulina restaurant, where the fantastic food is paired with even more incredible views.

Day 10: Drive from Rovinj to Zagreb & fly home

Today is the last day of your Croatia road trip - but don't worry, there's still plenty more to do.

Get your caffeine and breakfast fix, then load your things into the rental car and set off towards Zagreb, the capital of Croatia.

This final leg of your Croatia driving itinerary takes between three and four hours, and you should be prepared to pay a couple of tolls along the way.

Make a quick stop in Optaija

If you're in need of a coffee or bathroom break en route, we recommend stopping in the lovely seaside town of Opatija, about 1.5 hours outside of Rovinj.

During the days of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Opatija was considered the most chic seaside resort around, and these days you can see evidence of its glorious past in the stately belle époque villas dotted around the town.

For a gourmet treat, make your way to Plavi Podrum, a super romantic restaurant overlooking the water. You'll feel like royalty as you feast on exquisite fresh fish dishes. Wash it down with bubbles for an added bonus!

Arrive in Zagreb

Noticeably more cosmopolitan than Dubrovnik or Split, Zagreb is very much a capital city - and it has all the perks that come with it.

Funky shops, boatloads of top restaurants, a gazillion fabulous cafes, and - famously - a whole host of quirky and crazy museums, including your first sightseeing stop: The Museum of Broken Relationships.

Remember former partners at the trendiest museum in Zagreb

The quirkiest museum of them all - and yet also somehow the trendiest - is the Museum of Broken Relationships.

At this offbeat attraction, the exhibitions feature relics of - you guessed it - broken relationships, from jilted lovers' belongings to mementos from friendships gone sour.

It may sound depressing, but it's oddly uplifting. If you've ever been heartbroken (and haven't we all?) this place will offer solace and just the right amount of humour.

After leaving the museum, have a wander around the surrounding area, known as Zagreb's Upper Town (Gornji Grad), which is generally considered the most charming and lively area of the city.

You can stop by Dolac - the largest green market in Zagreb - for a bite to eat before taking the funicular down to the Lower Town.

Follow up your museum visit with a tour of Zagreb's famous green spaces.

Unusually for a big city, Zagreb is home to multiple lush forests and parks that give locals a place to walk, picnic, and generally enjoy the outdoors.

One of the best of these is the 50-acre Jelenovac Forest, located right near downtown at the foothills of Mount Medvednica. If you're up for it, follow hiking trail number 14 up to the top of the mountain for awesome views and crisp mountain air.

Sip on a cocktail in A Most Unusual Garden

Finish up your Croatia road trip with a gin cocktail (or two) at the delightfully whimsical A Most Unusual Garden, which truly lives up to its name.

The black and white checkered outdoor terrace is lit by fairy lights and overlooked by a treehouse, with colourful drawings adorning the walls.

By day, the vibe is relaxed and laid-back, and at night the garden comes alive with music and a buzzing atmosphere.

It's the perfect place to reflect on your epic road trip before heading off to the Zagreb airport and flying back home.

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Related posts

37 Best Stops Between Zagreb and Dubrovnik

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How long is the drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik?

The direct drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is 372 mi (599 km) , and should have a drive time of 6 hrs 16 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Split , Plitvice Lakes National Park , Zadar , Mostar , Hvar , Sibenik , and Trogir , as well as top places to visit like B&B Lower Lakes and Plitvice Lakes National Park, or the ever-popular Great Waterfall.

Top cities between Zagreb and Dubrovnik

Plitvice lakes national park.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Best stops along Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive

Great waterfall.

B&B Lower Lakes

Nikola tesla memorial centre, office of una np, paklenica national park, the greeting to the sun, paseo maritimo, beach slanica, knin fortress, krka national park, pakleni otoci, path to spanish fortress.

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Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Vidova gora

Zlatni rat beach hotel, tučepi beach, croatia divers, korcula town museum, mostar old bridge viewpoint, kravica waterfall, blagaj tekke.

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Stonske zidine

Elaphiti islands, top searches in dubrovnik, other popular road trips from zagreb, explore nearby places.

• Sipanska Luka
• Dunave Krajnje
• Herceg-Novi Municipality
• Herceg-Novi

All related maps of Dubrovnik

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• Map of Orasac
• Map of Srebreno
• Map of Trsteno
• Map of Mlini
• Map of Lopud
• Map of Cavtat
• Map of Sudurad
• Map of Sipanska Luka
• Map of Cilipi
• Map of Slano
• Map of Trebinje
• Map of Zavala
• Map of Konavle
• Map of Saplunara
• Map of Gruda
• Map of Dunave Krajnje
• Map of Molunat
• Map of Ston
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• Map of Herceg-Novi Municipality
• Map of Herceg-Novi
• Map of Neum
• Map of Stolac
• Map of Denovici
• Map of Risan
• Map of Kamenari

Dubrovnik throughout the year

• Dubrovnik in January
• Dubrovnik in February
• Dubrovnik in March
• Dubrovnik in April
• Dubrovnik in May
• Dubrovnik in June
• Dubrovnik in July
• Dubrovnik in August
• Dubrovnik in September
• Dubrovnik in October
• Dubrovnik in November
• Dubrovnik in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Dubrovnik?

Get inspired for your trip to Dubrovnik with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Dubrovnik Itinerary
• 2-Day Dubrovnik Itinerary
• 3-Day Dubrovnik Itinerary
• 4-Day Dubrovnik Itinerary
• 5-Day Dubrovnik Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from zagreb to dubrovnik.

Yes! You can drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik.

How far is Dubrovnik from Zagreb by car?

The drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is 372 miles (599 km).

How long does it take to drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik?

Driving from Zagreb to Dubrovnik should take you 6 hrs 16 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Zagreb to Dubrovnik?

Gas from Zagreb to Dubrovnik would cost around $33 to $76 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik?

You could check out B&B Lower Lakes and Plitvice Lakes National Park, or the always popular Great Waterfall!

What are the best cities to visit between Zagreb and Dubrovnik?

People love visiting Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park, and Zadar, among others.

What's the weather like in Zagreb?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Zagreb in January
• Weather in Zagreb in February
• Weather in Zagreb in March
• Weather in Zagreb in April
• Weather in Zagreb in May
• Weather in Zagreb in June
• Weather in Zagreb in July
• Weather in Zagreb in August
• Weather in Zagreb in September
• Weather in Zagreb in October
• Weather in Zagreb in November
• Weather in Zagreb in December

What are some other road trips from Zagreb?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Zagreb.

• Zagreb to Rome drive
• Zagreb to Budapest drive
• Zagreb to Vienna drive
• Zagreb to London drive
• Zagreb to Venice drive
• Zagreb to Paris drive
• Zagreb to Prague drive
• Zagreb to Florence drive
• Zagreb to Barcelona drive
• Zagreb to Milan drive
• Zagreb to Berlin drive
• Zagreb to Amsterdam drive
• Zagreb to Munich drive
• Zagreb to Istanbul drive
• Zagreb to Madrid drive
• Zagreb to Turin drive
• Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive
• Zagreb to Ljubljana drive
• Zagreb to Krakow drive
• Zagreb to Salzburg drive
• Zagreb to Naples drive
• Zagreb to Verona drive
• Zagreb to Edinburgh drive
• Zagreb to Trieste drive
• Zagreb to Dublin drive
• Zagreb to Lisbon drive
• Zagreb to Athens drive
• Zagreb to Brussels drive
• Zagreb to Bled drive

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Zagreb to Dubrovnik drive

Zagreb to dubrovnik road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. If you're planning a road trip to Dubrovnik, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start in Zagreb drive for about 1.5 hours

12:20 pm   Jasenak stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:20 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:48 pm   Paklenica National Park stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:48 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours

10:00 am  leave from Krka National Park drive for about 47 minutes

10:47 am   Split stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:47 am drive for about 1 hour

12:56 pm   Makarska stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:56 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:05 pm   Mljet stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:05 pm drive for about 36 minutes

4:41 pm  arrive in Dubrovnik stay at Radisson Blu Resort & Spa

day 2 driving ≈ 3.5 hours

Zagreb to Dubrovnik questions

Where should I stop along the way?

Jasenak Paklenica National Park   (2 mentions) Krka National Park   (21 mentions) Split   (95 answers)     Diocletian's Palace   (9 mentions)     Marjan   (3 mentions)     Marjan   (2 mentions)     Cro-Split Old Town   (2 mentions)     Riva   (2 mentions)     questions about Split:         What should a friend and I do in Split?         Please suggest some great water sports in Split!         Transportation to Krka National Park from Split?         Where's the best place to go for an authentic lunch in Split, Croatia?         What's the best neighborhood in Split for a first time visitor? Makarska   (5 answers) Mljet   (5 mentions)

Where's the best place to stay in Dubrovnik?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Dubrovnik .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Radisson Blu Resort & Spa , which was mentioned 3 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Dubrovnik? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Dubrovnik?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Gil's Dubrovnik , which was mentioned 2 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Dubrovnik? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Dubrovnik?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Dubrovnik. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Dubrovnik.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Dubrovnik to Zagreb drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Zagreb to Dubrovnik . Or get a full Zagreb to Dubrovnik flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Zagreb well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Zagreb!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Zagreb to Dubrovnik

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Croatia Road Trip Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide

A road trip through Croatia topped my travel bucket list for quite some years. Until I finally had the chance to do it and it was me-mo-ra-ble. Here’s a complete guide for you to make your first Croatia road trip along the coast too!

When I was planning my trip, I found loads of websites talking about Croatia . Surprisingly none of them was complete and concise enough. Either they are too specific, too broad or simply not valuable pieces of information.

So just like I did with my island hopping guide for Thailand , and my Rio , Japan , Mexico , and Portugal itineraries, I’m helping you plan a 100% independent road trip in Croatia.

Croatia Overview and FAQ

Is croatia worth it.

In a nutshell: HELL YES. Croatia is one of my favorite countries in Europe, period. I miss all the awesome landscapes we’ve come across along the Dalmatian Coast in particular the unique Zlatni Rat beach in Brac.

Is it easy to travel around Croatia?

Croatia is perfectly safe and has decent transportation options. The elongated form of the country makes the trip along the coast a bit more lenghty though.

Can you drive around Croatia?

Absolutely yes. Renting a car is the best way to enjoy Croatia. Roads are generally in very good condition, well signalized and there aren’t many cars on the road. Tours or agencies only take away the fun of exploring this beautiful country on your own.

Planning a trip to Croatia

When to do a road trip in croatia.

First of all, there reasons to visit Croatia all-year round. Some people go to Croatia in January just to see Plitvice Natural Park with snow – which judging by some pictures it’s a true delight!

That said, if you’re like me, you’ll most likely want to take advantage of the beautiful coastline and make sure you go when it’s warm and sunny.

With this in mind, definitely avoid the winter months, between November and March and the peak season, between July and August. Peak season can be terribly expensive and crowded everywhere you go, including an spike in traffic in the major cities.

Aim to book your trip between April to June or between September-October, which coincides with the shoulder season in Europe.

How long for a road trip in Croatia?

How many days do you have? *wink*

Although Croatia is not a huge country, it is big enough to keep you busy and happy for weeks. Or months. Make no mistake: there are loads of things to see and places to make your wanderlust go crazy. The longer you can stay, the less you’ll regret it later.

To make a first-time Croatia road trip itinerary you’ll need at least 10 days . If you have more time, great, just check the extra stops to the itinerary you can add below.

How to island-hop in Croatia?

Choosing which island(s) to go in Croatia is a FOMO-inducing first-world problem. With more than 1,000 islands to pick from, it can quickly become overwhelming.

If you’re indeed renting a car (or bike), I recommend starting by studying the ferry connections that allow vehicles. This can potentially save you a lot of money coming and returning from islands.

Other than that, it’s up to pick the island that resonates with you the most. Go to Brač for stunning landscape and beaches, Vis or Korcula for a getaway atmosphere, or Hvar if you’re looking to party.

My Croatia road trip itinerary

Here’s how my itinerary for my first-time in Croatia could looked like.

Hopefully this guide will save you hours of Google searches, trying to put your head around stops all to come up with the perfect journey.

Croatia Road Trip

• Zagreb : 1 day
• Plitvice : 1 day
• Zadar : 1-2 days
• Krka : 1 day
• Split : 1-2 days
• Brac : 2-3 days
• Dubrovnik : 2-3 days

Duration : for all the places mentioned above, stay at least 10 days. Activities : it includes a wide range of things to do: urban explorations, beach time, ancient ruins’ history, hiking natural parks and even swim in waterfalls. Where to stay : most of the places we’ve stayed were fully-furnished apartments. I’ve used Booking.com to book all our accommodation.

Croatia Road trip – route map

I’ve pinned all the places I’m about to mention in this map. This way you can easily find them and follow the journey visually.

Orange pins : main road trip stops Yellow pins : must-go places Blue pins : extra places you might want to include in your itinerary

Find more information on the orange places below:

Chances are Zagreb will be the starting point for your road trip. Visiting the capital is a good way to get you introduced to Croatia, even though I later realised how different it is from the rest of the country.

The major highlight is definitely the emblematic Crkva sv. Marka ( St. Mark’s Church ), with its colourful tile pattern representing the coat of arms of both the city and of the country on the roof.

The entire old town is picturesque and walkable. Grab a beer at Tkalčićeva – a vivid street full of bars and small stores, great for people-watching.

Other important attractions are the Croatian National Theatre and the unique Museum of Broken Relationships , displaying personal objects of ex-lovers that somehow tell their (sad) story.

While Zagreb has some strikes of awesomeness going on, it falls a bit flat, specially if compared to nearby european capitals like Vienna or Budapest .

Still a great place to spend a full day and get your Croatian adventure started.

My value-for-money place to stay in Zagreb ⭐

Rooms Zagreb 17

Superb location in central Zagreb and a helpful staff to help you settle on your spacious bright room. Can’t go wrong.

PLITVICE LAKES

Plitvička Jezera ( Plitvice Lakes ) is one of Croatia ’s most popular tourist destinations, made up of sixteen lakes inter-connected by a series of waterfalls and mountains.

This was the major FAIL of our road trip. Plitvice was one of the main reasons I wanted to go to Croatia in the first place so getting there under heavy rain, fog and cold winds was heart-breaking. There was no point to go inside, since we wouldn’t see a thing.

In any case, I highly recommend you to go to Plitvice . There must be a reason why everyone speaks about it with a little sparkle on the eyes. Good luck with the weather!

Plitvice National Park is open all year round, everyday from 7:00 to 19:00. The entrance to the park in peak season is 180 kuna .

It’s advisable to book a place nearby to stay and visit the Lakes early in the morning to beat the crowds that arrive from tours from Split and Zadar. For complete details on prices and operating hours go here .

Weather is unpredictable in this region of Croatia . The owner of the apartment we stayed advised there is sort of a micro-climate going on in Plitvice (we definitely experienced that!). Be extra careful with the possibly extreme foggy and rainy conditions when driving up to the mountains.

The ancient capital of Dalmatia , Zadar displays a compelling mix of ruins, fortress city walls and pedestrian-only marble streets which lead to a wide and modern waterfront.

The historical print of the city is particularly conveyed in the area where St. Donatus Church and the Cathedral of St. Anastasia sit in front of a huge lawn with scattered roman ruins.

While the old town displays an interesting combination of ancient and medieval heritage with a vibrant nightlife, the most unique feature of Zadar is in its waterfront.

Zadar has the most beautiful sunset in the world, more beautiful than the one in Key West, Florida, applauded at every evening. – Alfred Hitchcock

The Morske orgulje ( Sea Organ ) is quite hard to notice at a first glance, but it does make sure it’s being heard . The marble steps leading toward the Adriatic display small tubes/whistles that create tunes driven my a combination of waves and wind. Listening to this sea concert is oddly satisfying…

A few steps further, you’ll find Sun Salutation : a giant blue circle embedded into the ground. This set of photovoltaic plates that collect solar energy during the day and put on a wonderful LED light show at night. A fabulous mix of high-tech and nature. I could watch it for hours.

For me, this was the first true wow moment in Croatia .

Where to stay in Zadar

Most hotels in Zadar are 3km out in the Puntamika area, but that’s too far away if you ask me.

Staying is the best option but can easily become expensive. If you really wish to stay here, I’d recommend you to book well in advance.

If you’re on a budget, look for the area near the bus/train station Željeznička stanica or in the other side of the bridge that connects the peninsula with the mainland. In both cases, you’ll be just a short walk away from all the action.

Here’s a list of the top-rated accommodation in Zadar ‘s downtown, with free WiFi, and parking included.

⭐ My top place to stay in Zadar

Guest House Pegla

Centrally located 3 minutes away from the Old Town, but far away form noice. Sea view included!

Murter island is probably the most off-the-beaten-track destination in this itinerary. Many driving along the coast of Dalmatia would probably add in Šibenik or Makarska instead.

However we were looking for relaxation and a more local vibe. The good thing about this island is that you don’t need a ferry to get there. Murter is connected to the mainland by a bascule bridge at Tisno which makes it technically sort of a peninsula.

Being the largest island in the Šibenik archipelago, it offers a wide range of beach possibilities within its numerous awe-inspiring coves and bay with shallow waters (perfect for kids!).

The bridge that connects the “mainland” to Murter is open each morning and at late afternoon.

From the 4 main settlements in the island, we chose Betina to stay. Easy-going and with a very local feeling and very close to Slanica Bay . It’s a small place but the whole setting of the beach, including the fine sand, and the surrounding olive and pine trees, felt like a hidden paradise.

Discover other sandy and pebbly beaches around like Podvršak , Korisina and Čigrađa and consider a day trip to Kornati islands. Many locals own a second property there and may be able to take you out there in a boat. The archipelago is a national park and is known for its preserved raw beauty and rich maritime ecosystem.

KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Krka National Park is a well-known nature spot in Croatia . Comprising more than 800+ species of fauna and flora across its 100 square kilometers of area, it’s a place of exceptional natural value.

I had great expectations that Krka would somehow make it up for the disappointment in Plitvice a few days earlier. And boy, everything went better than expected.

I got to say the lower part of the park has an unremarkable music summer festival feeling to it. But all is forgiven by the surrounding scenery once you start exploring the surroundings.

The highlight are the swimmable Skradinski Buk waterfalls. This set of 400-meter wide magnificent waterfalls that end up in stunning natural pools, reflecting the green of the surrounding lush vegetation. It’s definitely one of the most memorable experiences you can have in the Dalmatian Coast .

I also had time to explore further trails around the Skradinski Buk full of caves, lakes and other waterfalls which only proved how beautiful and special this place is. The whole park seems a distorted reality. It seems someone tuned up the contrast and saturation configurations: everything around overflows your eyes with color!

It’s worthwhile to spend a day here, hiking, biking or whatever you want to do in nature. Everything happens for a reason and I was glad I came to Krka instead.

Getting to Krka NP

You can enter the park in five different points. As most people visit from Šibenik (a 20-min ride), the two most popular starting points are Skradin and Lozovac at the southern end.

We ended up leaving the car in Skradin , taking a boat up the Krka river until the park. Boats sail every fill hour and return at half hours. The sailing time from Skradin to Krka is about 25 minutes and it is completely free with your entrance ticket. Woo-hoo, a bonus boat trip through the river valley!

Prices and opening hours

Krka National Park is open all year round, everyday from 8am to 5pm. The entrance to the park in peak season is 200 kuna .

Check prices and opening hours here .

Split is a major transportation hub in Croatia and a popular cruise ship port. It is also an ideal departure place to take a ferry and explore the islands along the Dalmatian coast.

When Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build himself a modest retirement home, he chose Split. Diocletian’s Palace was so massive that a bustling town started being build around it. Today, tons of shops, restaurants and cafés in Riva – the main pedestrian street – are the centre of the city action.

If there’s a major sight not to be missed in Split is definitely the Peristyle , the central square of the palace. Grab a seat in the nearest roman ruin, order a beer and marvel the spectacular architecture and the patchwork of Roman, medieval and Renascence buildings around you. It’s particularly beautiful during the evening.

Split is worth at least 1 or 2 days. Personally, I’d try to allocate more time to Zadar , but that’s my preference for a slightly less touristy city.

Where to stay in Split

I highly recommend you stay in the center of the old town. If possible inside the city walls. The outskirts of Split can be a bit disappointing and they’re surely not worth the extra trip.

Beware though: finding a parking spot in centre Split during the summer can be a needle-in-a-haystack task,

Here’s a good option for accomodation:

Villa Boban Luxury

Just a 4-min walk from the beach and 20-min from the Diocletian Palace, this is a great location. The apartments are clean, modern and tidy.

You can also start your search with this pre-selected list of the best accommodation in Split city center, with free WiFi, and access to parking for your car.

BRAC ISLAND

If you are road tripping Croatia, you’ll want to go to one (or more) of its 1,000 islands. Don’t let FOMO settle in!.

After checking the possible ferry routes and ruling out time-consuming connections, we ended up with three possibilities: Brac, Hvar and Korcula . In the end we’ve chosen the first one because it seemed to have the perfect mix of what we wanted to find: beaches, nature and relax.

I’ve praised the island of Brac before . It was a true show-stopper for me and quite possibly the major highlight of the trip. This is where the real and authentic Croatia lies.

Brac is one of those places with the power of take you away and make you forget all your problems.

The highlight: Zlatni Rat beach . One of the most popular postcards of the country. Due to its unique natural conditions, it’s a mecca for all the watersports enthusiasts but also a true delight to all nature lovers.

Allow yourself at least 2-3 days in Brac and don’t be limited to Zlatni Rat . The island has many other stunning coves and bays waiting to be explored, such as Lovrecina and Sumartin . The quaint small villages of Supetar , Pučišća and Bol are worth to visit too.

Where to stay in Brac island

BlueSun Borak

Peaceful spot close to Zlatni Rat and to the walking promenade that leads to Bol.

You’ve probably heard of Dubrovnik . The city has grown hugely in popularity in recent years and much credit should be given to the TV series Game of Thrones . In fact, you can see a GoT tour in every corner of the old town.

The amount of people inside the walls of Dubrovnik during the day is impressive, especially when cruise boats arrive. Stradun , the main commercial artery, can be completely packed at that times.

In any other destination, it would totally take away the charisma and authenticity – take Venice for example. But somehow in Dubrovnik that does not happen. Even with all the crowds and tours, wandering around the narrow cobbled streets of the old town felt as special as ever.

Walking the two-kilometre ancient walls allows for the best views of Dubrovnik , but I found it more interesting seeing it from the sea. Sea kayaking tours are widely available – I recommend Adventure Dubrovnik – and usually are done starting from Pile Gate and around the Lokrum island, right in front of the city.

One great place to stay – far away from the old town madness but easily reachable by bus/car – is the Lapad peninsula. While it’s an area with high-end luxurious hotels, it’s also possible to find cheap accommodation next to the best beaches near Dubrovnik .

Take a look at this shortlist in Booking . It contains only the top-rated hotels in Dubrovnik , with WiFi, parking, and breakfast included.

Bring your passport

Did you know Dubrovnik is geographically isolated from the rest of Croatia ? If you are coming from anywhere else in Croatia to Dubrovnik by road, you’ll have to pass through Bosnia & Herzegovina . Bosnia is not part of the European Union, so depending on the country of your passport you may need to show your documents.

Getting around Dubrovnik

Traffic and parking in Dubrovnik is a total CHAOS. I highly recommend you get around using the reliable and efficient network of bus . We didn’t wait more than 5 minutes every time we used it, even during the night.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

I stayed in the Lapad peninsula which turned out to be a great area in Dubrovnik . Just a short bus trip to the crazy Old Town, it allows you to be away from the tourist madness and have a little bit of beach time close by. My hotel was the one below, but here’s a shortlist of the top places with WiFi in Lapad to get your search started.

Where I stayed in Dubrovnik ⭐

Apartments Silva

Just a 5-min walk from the beach, with a super friendly host, and a gorgeous view over Lapad area.

Extra places to go in Croatia

If you have some more spare days, there are many other options to enrich your itinerary with places not only in Croatia but in other neighbour countries.

Istria peninsula, Croatia

I’ve left the entire western-most region of Croatia out of my basic itinerary due to time limitations. If time is not a problem, you can spend some days exploring the peninsula of Istria. Amongst the green countryside and the coastal little ports, the main city Pula and the fortified town of Rovinj stand out. Nearby there also some of Croatia’s popular islands: Krk , Rab and Cres .

Hvar Island, Croatia

Hvar is the most popular island destination in Croatia . From its endless lavender fields to the bubbling nightlife of Hvar Town , there’s always something to keep you busy. If Hvar still bores you, you can always rent a boat and head to the deserted Paklinski islands on a day trip.

Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina

A day trip to Mostar is perfectly doable from either Split , Makarska or Dubrovnik . The city holds a complete different vibe from the whole Croatia, which makes it a great addition to your road trip route. Besides the stunning Stari Most ( Old Bridge ), Mostar is an interesting mix of a vibrant oriental culture and a joyless recent history.

Kotor, Montenegro

Backed up by impressive mountains keeping its authenticity untouched, many consider Dubrovnik to be a Euro-trashy version of Kotor . With scenic views, four-kilometre medieval walls and a ever-lasting medieval architecture, you might want to consider adding this city to your route. Next time, I will.

Driving in Croatia

I must say I was impressed with how easy it is to drive in Croatia . No matter the natural obstacles you’ll be driving on – mountains, cliffs, coves – the roads are in perfect condition and very well signalised. Pay tolls, when existent, are very cheap.

Within the cities, the story is a bit different. While Zagreb is still much calmer to what you’d expect of an european capital, traffic in cities like Zadar , Split , and specially Dubrovnik can be CHAOS.

Same for parking: we wandered around 45 minutes to find a (paid!) parking spot in Split . And we decided to ditch our car when arriving Dubrovnik (our last stop) and switch immediately to public transport. Remember this was in September, can’t even imagine on the peak summer months.

Which car hire companies to use in Croatia?

You can find most of the big heavy weights in Croatia. More importantly than the company you go for, is try to book your car as soon as possible – it can save you loads of money. We ended up going with Sixt and getting an additional insurance from Insurance4carhire . Good value for money in both cases, so I can just recommend them!

Pro tip: due to the geography of Croatia , consider returning the car in a different place than the pick up. Most companies will charge you a “one-way” fee, but it will be worth to avoid driving all the way back to your starting point.

Accommodation in Croatia

There’s a wide range of hotels, hostels, guesthouses, villas, and especially private apartments available on Booking and on Airbnb .

Rooms are usually cheap and with good quality rooms. Yet, due to the increase of tourism in recent years, it is recommended to book well in advance for July and August months.

Start your search using the lists I’ve put together of all hotels in Croatia with WiFi, parking, and good-to-excellent reviews in Split , Zadar , and Dubrovnik .

Costs for a Croatia trip

So how much all of this madness cost?

Find out a breakdown on my numbers below. Keep in mind these are values per person and that I travelled with four other people, which tends to lower down the global costs. If you’re travelling with less people, I’d add 10-30% extra to the total for a better estimate. And don’t forget to add in your flights!

• Car Rental: 102 € (rental value per person)
• Diesel: 13 € (total value per person)
• Ferries: 14 €
• Meals and snacks: 291 €
• Supermarket stuff: 30 €
• TOTAL COST (€):  585€ /pax

Tips for your road trip in Croatia

Here are some generic tips to save you time and money in Croatia:

Saving money

• Try to stay in apartments with kitchen, where you can prepare some meals. We actually did stay but we were too lazy to make any meals, which could have saved us loads!
• Pay attention to exchange rates, in some of the most touristy places they are outrageous. You can lose a lot of money changing money to kunas !

Saving time

• If you’re boarding a ferry with your car, arrive to the port EARLY. Lines can start forming 1 or 2 hours before the departure time and car availability is limited.
• Only a VERY limited number of ferries allow cars on board and they’re usually popular routes. Study well your itinerary as you can easily you make you waste a lot of time getting back to the mainland.
• For detailed ferry information check the Croatia Ferries website or go directly with the largest croatian ferry company, Jadrolinija .

Uma foto publicada por BRUN🌎 (@bruno_mb) a Set 13, 2015 às 3:37 PDT Other Croatia Resources Croatia Tourism Board Map with top attractions in Croatia, Slovenia, Albania, and Montenegro Croatia Road Trip Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide 7 Unforgettable Experiences in the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia Zlatni Rat Beach + Tips to Brac Island, Croatia My travel tips valid anywhere 🏨 To find the best deals and book your stay with free cancellation, I recommend Booking.com 🚗 Always compare car rental prices before you book anything (and if possible use local rental shops!) ☑️ Travel insurance is a must these days – don’t overlook it! I recommend Allianz or Safety Wing 💰 Use Revolut to save in exchange rates and payments abroad ⚙️ Amazon has the largest offer in travel gear and accessories – check out my Travel Store ! ✈️ Are you dealing with a delayed or cancelled flight? Airhelp may help you get a compensation for it! Do you feel ready to do a Croatia road trip? What other tips do you have? Share your experience below!

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Croatia , Travel Guide · May 6, 2017

Croatia road trip itinerary; from Zagreb to Dubrovnik

A road trip is the best way to explore Croatia, one of the most diverse countries I’ve ever been to. It has fantastic cities, cute little towns, amazing national parks with incredible nature, paradise islands and a dreamy coastline. So it would be a shame to visit just one or two places during your stay. Don’t have a driving license or don’t feel like driving yourself? Don’t panic! Croatia has a very practical and cheap bus network that will take you everywhere you want to go! I traveled from Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, to Dubrovnik (that became famous thanks to Game of Thrones) for only 50€ in total by bus! Of course I wasn’t able to do everything in Croatia; the options are endless, but I’d say this itinerary is perfect for a first time two week Croatia road trip!

The ultimate Croatia road trip itinerary

Stops : Zagreb – Plitvice Lakes NP – Sibenik – Krka – Split – Hvar – Dubrovnik – Mljet Hotels/Appartments : all places I stayed at were located in the center of the towns near the bus station Duration : 10-16 days (depending on how long you want to stay in each place) Total kilometers : 641km Activities : city trip, national parks, swimming, boat trip, little town exploration, forts, blue cave Practical tips for how to plan your trip through Croatia: How to plan a trip through Croatia on a budget

Duration : 2 nights Where did I stay : Best Western Premier Astoria Hotel (book here)

Zagreb is a perfect first stop for your Croatia road trip! It is also known as little Vienna. To my surprise it was a very trendy city and super budget friendly! Zagreb consists of two parts; the lower town (Donji Grad) and the upper town (Gornji Grad). Donji Grad is the modern part of town where you can go shopping, visit museums or go to fancy restaurants.  Gornji Grad is the more historical part with its old structures, churches and monuments. Make sure to visit its many vivid squares, the cathedral, the Dolac market, Tkalciceva street where you can watch people passing by while enjoying a good drink and Saint Mark’s Square with the cute Saint Mark’s church! Read more about Zagreb here: How to spend 36 hours in Zagreb

Plitvice Lakes NP (2 hours drive from Zagreb)

Duration : 3 nights Where did I stay : Guesthouse Academia Danica (book here) , only 400m from entrance 1

If you always wanted to visit a fairytale landscape or if you’re a sucker for waterfalls like me, you need to visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. It truly is one of the dreamiest places I’ve ever visited! Most people spend only one day at this park, but I recommend at least 2 days to be able to explore every corner before the crowds arrive! Discover the best views, how to avoid the crowds and more tips & tricks in my post Plitvice Lakes NP; the guide with everything you need to know  

Sibenik (2 hours drive from Plitvice Lakes)

Duration : 3 nights Where did I stay : Guesthouse Merla (book here) , small but perfect location in the middle of the old town

Sibenik is the oldest Croatian city on the Adriatic coast and  not yet overrun by tourists. It was a filming location for Game of Thrones and it consists of small narrow cobblestone streets, often with stairs. The eyecatcher is probably the Cathedral of St James and also the fortresses are fun to visit. Curious about what’s to explore at Sibenik? Find out here: The ultimate quick guide to Sibenik .

Krka NP (day trip from Sibenik)

Krka National Park is another fantastic park with a lot of beautiful waterfalls formed by Travertine, a limestone deposited by mineral springs. The big difference with Plitvice Lakes NP? You are allowed to swim at Krka! Discover everything you need to know before your visit to Krka here: Tips for Krka NP: what you should know before your visit 

Split (1 hour 10 minutes drive from Sibenik)

Duration : 3 nights Where did I stay : Jupiter Luxury Hotel (book here) located at Diocletian’s Palace!

The old town center of Split actually consists mainly of Diocletian’s Palace, so most of your time you’re walking along the remains of a Roman palace! The Peristyle is a great place to sit on the steps and enjoy the view and the Riva is the place to be at night! Read everything you need to know about this fantastic historical gem here: Split, Croatia: things you must see and do

Boat trip to Biševo (Blue Cave) Vis (Green Cave) & Hvar (day trip from Split)

Boat trips are a must at Croatia which counts over a thousand islands! The boat trip I did from Split, took me to the magical blue and green caves and to the wonderful island Hvar, where you can explore the town and climb to the fortress. Read more about my boat trip here and watch my video of this fantastic boat trip on my YouTube channel

Dubrovnik (3 hours drive from Split)

Duration : 5 nights Where did I stay: Apartment Lucic (book here) with the best view in town!

What a way to finish this Croatia road trip! Dubrovnik is like nothing you’ve ever seen! As soon as I stood on the terrace of my apartment tears started to burn behind my eyes simply because the view was so breathtakingly beautiful. Dubrovnik takes you way back into time when you walk inside of the city’s walls. It’s no surprise so many Game of Thrones scenes were shot here! Discover what the big fuss is all about here: The essential travel guide to Dubrovnik

Mljet (day trip from Dubrovnik)

This island is probably one of the most unspoiled islands of Croatia and so the ideal place to escape the cruise crowds that invade the Dubrovnik walls from 10.00 til 18.00. You can swim, hike and bike here. Fun fact; there’s an island within the island Mljet! Read more about Mljet here: Mljet island; escape the crowds of Dubrovnik 

If you like my pictures of my Croatia road trip I suggest to follow my Instagram account where you can find a lot more!

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May 6, 2017 at 9:38 AM

Your pictures are always stunning. Seems like you really had a great time!

Charmaine Ng

February 12, 2018 at 1:02 PM

Hi Jollee, I loved reading your article, it is very informative and your itinerary seems to be very good. I am planning a trip in May, is it a good time to travel to Croatia. The bus journey from Plitvice Lake NP to Sibenik is for about 4.5hrs as perGetbybus.com, whereas you have mentioned 2hr. Can you please tell me where to book it. If I rent a car, how safe it is to drive in Croatia. Thanks Amit

February 12, 2018 at 2:30 PM

You can check how I planned everything here: http://www.worldwanderista.com/plan-trip-croatia-budget/ including the busses. I went to Croatia at the end of June. I’m sure May will be OK! You can never predict the weather! I didn’t rent a car in Croatia, so I don’t know, but I’m sure it will fine! Have a great trip!!

March 22, 2018 at 11:34 AM

5th photo “Split” there is a guy peeing against the wall if you zoom up 😂

March 22, 2018 at 12:05 PM

OMG! You’re totally right! Never noticed that hahahaha! 😀

April 4, 2018 at 9:00 PM

Wow! Looks amazing! I was just wondering if you don’t mind me asking, how much approx did it cost you? I am thinking of doing something similar this summer.

April 5, 2018 at 2:10 PM

Hi Becky! You can read about that here; https://www.worldwanderista.com/plan-trip-croatia-budget/ 🙂

April 10, 2018 at 12:09 AM

Hi Joelle, My husband and I loved your blog and itinerary traveling through Croatia! Such awesome ideas and stops. I have a few questions as we are doing a very similar trip with the same stops as you did.

1. When do you recommend we drop off our rental car and which ferry to to take to finish off our trip would you suggest? We are picking up the car in Zagreb and thinking we should drop it off once we are ready to leave Split, so that we do not take it all the way to Dubrovnik (our final destination)? I heard it is really hard to travel around or park with a rental car? Ideas and thoughts?

2. What were the company names of the 1 day island excursions that you did? We want to do the same day trips and hoping to book in advance. We are going first 2 weeks of July.

April 10, 2018 at 7:41 AM

Hi Alicia! Didn’t rent a car so can’t answer that question for you! Would keep it since there are some nice places along the coast you can visit between Split and Dubrovnik! That’s what I would do if I redid it! Just contact your hotel or b&b owner to ask where it’s best to park your car! The details about the tours you’ll probably find in my more detailed posts about Croatia! So check them out! I’m sure the info is there!

August 3, 2018 at 10:52 AM

Loved your blog . This seems to be the perfect itinerary for the first timers . Thank you so much for sharing this with the world. Also i want to ask you do suggest Visiting Croatia in med February?

August 3, 2018 at 11:18 AM

Hi Ved! Thanks for your nice comment! I was in Croatia in June, don’t know about February, but it will be cold! Would be cool to see Plitvice in the snow though! But then you have to be lucky! It doesn’t always snow!

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Tour Croatia+ trip

Hot Spots of Croatia, Zagreb to Dubrovnik

What are the top things to do and see in Croatia? This trip covers all the basics and gives you a taste of what Croatia is all about. You will never experience it like this if you’re flying from place to place. The trick is to try to get to know it from a different angle, by land and sea.

Trip highlights

• Tour Zagreb, one of the most beautiful capitals in Europe
• Explore the waterfalls, lakes, and rivers of Krka and Plitvice national parks
• Marvel at the remains of Diocletian’s Palace in the coastal city of Split
• Visit Korčula and find out where the famous explorer Marco Polo came from
• Dive into history with a tour of Dubrovnik's medieval Old Town and city walls

Trip designed by: Anna Maria Frid

Avid skier and swimmer, fluent in 5 languages. She spends most of her free time trekking, skiing, cycling, ice skating or simply walking through the woods.

Create your adventure

Fill out a few details and get a detailed itinerary with all inclusions and trip details - we can customize them together

This road trip takes you south through Croatia, taking in many of the popular highlights in a short period of time. Begin in the capital city Zagreb before working your way down to the coast, the beautiful cities of Šibenik and Split, explore the islands of southern Dalmatia before ending your trip in Dubrovnik. Cruise through the breathtaking landscapes, taste one of the finest wines this region has to offer and enjoy in one of the best meals.

Zagreb is a the capital of Croatia. It is known as a perfect blend of a Central European architecture and the relaxed tempo of the Mediterranean

A sightseeing walking tour of the Plitvice Lakes National Park is complemented with a boat ride for complete immersion

Half-day buggy safari on Korčula island is spiced up with some wine tasting and then you can hit the beach...

You will explore Dubrovnik a.k.a. King's Landing accompanied by a local guide and detailed scene descriptions from famous TV show

Croatia's extraordinary island-speckled coastline and clarity of its waters are indisputably Croatia's main attraction. 

Historic cities and unspoilt nature are also among the top things people seek to explore while visiting Croatia. The vibrant capital city of Zagreb is home to some of the country's best museums, galleries, restaurants, and shopping. Along the coast, centuries-old harbor towns are packed with Venetian-era stone buildings, while countless pebble beaches offer things to do such as scuba diving, water skiing, and windsurfing. 

On the Adriatic, Croatia's blissful islands are a haven for yachters and those wanting to simply relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sunshine. Sharing food and drink plays a big part in the culture here, so expect some authentic local food delights along the way.

Day-by-day itinerary

Arrival in zagreb.

Arrival at Zagreb airport where you will be picked up and taken to your accommodation.

Once you've settled in, you will have time to relax and freshen up. After that, we suggest you take a walk around Zagreb. The Croatian capital is in many ways an exceptional city. Zagreb offers its guests the Baroque atmosphere of the Upper Town, a picturesque open market, green parks, and promenades, but also superb culinary delights and an exciting nightlife. It has managed to preserve its distinctive beauty and relaxed atmosphere and is the perfect blend of a Central European metropolis and the relaxed tempo of the Mediterranean. Overnight.

From Zagreb to Split through Plitvice Lakes National Park

After a buffet breakfast at the hotel and check-out, you will pick up your rental car and depart for the Plitvice Lakes National Park, registered on UNESCO's List of World Heritage Sites. The park is a magical world of lakes, waterfalls, moss, and forests. Nestled in the embrace of the surrounding wooded mountains are sixteen smaller and larger crystal turquoise lakes, interconnected by foaming cascades and deep falls. The park includes the headwaters of the Korana River in an area surrounded by dense forests and is additionally ornamented by several caves, springs and flower-filled meadows, which show the vast diversity of flora and fauna in the park. A sightseeing walking tour of the National Park, which includes a boat ride, allows you to experience first-hand the magical beauty of the lakes and waterfalls, each spectacular in its own right. Lunch at a local restaurant features a delicious array of local specialities.

After visiting the park, you will continue towards Split where you will return the car and spend the night.

Brač Island From Split Tour

After breakfast, meet your guide at the designated location for your full-day visit of the Island Brač.

The Split to Brač ferry journey offers breath-taking views of the mountains, the City of Split and Brač island. You might even be lucky and catch sight of the many Adriatic dolphins on the way!

This Split to Brač day trip is shown by a local guide who has spent his life exploring Brač island and who gives great insights into the local culture – all in a fantastic vintage Land Rover – ideal for the rough Brač terrain. On this tour, you will visit an unmarked gem in the village of Skript, Brač, the olive oil museum – where you can taste the local produce and learn all about olive growing and oil production – new and old. You will also visit a local stone quarry – it’s what Brač is best known for – its famous white stone which was used for Diocletian’s Palace, the White House and Liverpool Cathedral high alter no less! A great lunch will be served in a local vineyard near Bol and followed by a visit to the famous Zlatni Rat beach or Golden Horn, perhaps the most photographed beach in all of Croatia where you can take a swim if you fancy.

This whole-day tour then visits Vidova Gora, the highest point on the entire island, with spectacular ethereal views across the Adriatic Sea to the island of Hvar – your photos from this viewpoint out to the island of Hvar will be memorable. Then you will wander back to Supetar though Brač’s numerous quaint fishing villages for your ferry back to Split.

Ferry from Split to Hvar

After an easy morning in Split, catch the ferry to the island of Hvar and check into your hotel. 

A Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, Hvar is a popular destination with tourists due to its natural setting, mild climate, and its historic port town of the same name. Highlights of Hvar Town include its 13th-century walls, a hilltop fortress, and the main square anchored by the Renaissance-era Cathedral.

For some of the best views of the island, Hvar Town, and the nearby Pakleni Islands take a short walk up to the 16th-century Španjola Fortress. Or, join a kayaking tour and head out on the Adriatic to discover the many secluded coves that outline the islands. To cover some ground and appreciate the variation in island landscape: from lavender plantations and olive groves to vineyards and pine woods, you may like to join a (wine tasting) cycling or hiking tour. The less active might opt to rent a scooter for faster coverage of the local scenery.

After an easy day, treat yourself to a drink in the ancient piazza of Hvar overlooking the Venetian loggia, 7th-century fortification walls, and the oldest municipal theatre in Europe. Overnight Hvar.

Blue and Green Caves: Full-Day Speedboat Tour from Hvar, overnight Korčula

Today you'll set out on an exciting full-day organized excursion!

After meeting your guides at a designated place, enjoy a full-day excursion on a speedboat off the coast of Hvar, with the first stop on your trip at the spectacular Blue Cave. The Blue Cave’s ethereal silvery blue colour is created by the sun as it bathes the cave’s interior through an opening in the roof and is reflected by the sandy surface below. Continue on the cruise to Stiniva Bay. Seeing it from the seaside, Stiniva is closed in by 2 high rocky cliffs which, at their closest point, are just 4 meters from each other. Between the cliffs you’ll see a pebble beach appear as you sail through the gateway, opening up the site like a Roman amphitheatre paved in stone. Continue to the Green Cave, where you'll have a chance to enjoy a swim, before heading to the little island of Budikovac, another ideal spot for a swim and a chance to relax. You’ll find a wonderful pebble beach, a small bay, protected from the open sea, and a beautiful lagoon for swimming on the southeastern side of the island of Vis. On the way back from Vis Island to the island of Hvar, you'll stop at Palmižana on Pakleni islands.

After the day trip, you'll catch the evening ferry to Korčula. Overnight in Korčula.

Explore Korčula, overnight Dubrovnik

After breakfast at the hotel, you will meet your guide who will accompany you on a fun adventure buggy trip.

The ride starts by driving out to the place called Medvidnjak, and from there going uphill to the viewpoint from where you can see the town of Korčula and the Pelješac-Korčula channel. Here you will take a short photo-break and enjoy the view. Next stop is the long sandy beach “Pržina” in Lumbarda, where you will spend some 45 minutes swimming and relaxing. The ride continues through the village of Lumbarda, which is full of small vineyards where the famous grape variety “Grk” is grown, as well as some other varieties. After that you will descend and drive for about 3 km along the coast. Then you will turn to the forest where you ride through the hills leading to the small village of Žrnovo, and after passing it you will arrive at Žrnovska Banja where you will visit a family estate. You are welcome to try some liquors and wines that are made according to old recipes that were passed on to younger generations for years, without artificial ingredients or additives and here you end your half-day buggy safari.

If you want the afternoon to relax, grab the public transportation and head off to Lumbarda and the two beautiful sandy beaches there. Make sure you try some local Grk white wine.

In the evening, you'll board the ferry to Dubrovnik, where you will check in the hotel. 

Dubrovnik Sightseeing

In the morning you will participate in the Dubrovnik Game of Thrones walking tour.

On the GOT guided walking tour, you will be taken through all the parts of Dubrovnik Old Town where some of the most memorable scenes from the cultural phenomenon were filmed, including The Pile Gate where King Joffrey was faced with a citizens’ riot and pelted with dung, the Lovrijenac fort (menacing Red Keep), and the place where the unsuccessful attack on King's Landing - the Battle of Blackwater - took place.

All Dubrovnik Game of Thrones filming locations, including ones from the final 8th season, are accompanied by commentary from a local guide with detailed scene descriptions and actual stills and images of scenes from the exact episodes they made an appearance on.

Have a blast recollecting the best moments of the show and take home some unique memories with you! If you have watched the series and you are passionate about GOT, this is a perfect thing to do while visiting Dubrovnik. If you are not a Game of Thrones fan, please note that we can also organize a different kind of sightseeing tour according to your liking.

You can also take an optional trip to the nearby islet of Lokrum. Just a boat ride from the port in the Old Town, it is great for a swimming break on a hot day and has loads of interesting legends about its history.

Departure Dubrovnik

Breakfast at the hotel and free time until transfer to Dubrovnik airport.

If you have some spare time, buy some unique souvenirs or gifts: arancini (candied orange peel), sugared almonds or Konavle-style embroidered tablecloth.

Ask about availability & get an offer

We have children discounts for this trip! They are based on child’s age. How old will each child be on the date when the trip ends?

What happens when you request an offer?

We will double-check availability and make reservations for your rooms, restaurants, guides etc.

With reservations confirmed, we will prepare the best offer possible in regard to your arrival date & party size

You will get the offer via e-mail, along with the payment options. Feel free to request further customisations!

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Croatia Road Trip: Build Your Ultimate 5-14 Day Itinerary

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Plan the Perfect Croatia Road Trip With Our Detailed Guide!

If you want to plan your perfect Croatia road trip, you’ve come to the right place! We love Croatia – and while we also recommend visiting the other Balkan countries, a Croatia road trip is never a bad idea.

Planning a Croatia driving itinerary can be difficult because of a variety of factors. From tolls on highways to hidden gems you might drive through without realizing, there is not one way to plan a road trip.

Another consideration is where you leave from and where you want to end your Croatia road trip. Leaving on a road trip from Zadar is going to look very different than if you leave from Zagreb.

Croatia’s unique geography makes it important to know the differences between the regions and what you can see and do in each of them!

So, whether you’re planning on doing a 5 day Croatia road trip, a 7 day Croatia road trip, or an ultimate 14 day Croatia road trip, we’ve got you covered. There’s a lot you can discover on a Croatia road trip in 2 weeks! Consider this your Croatia road trip planner. Ready to get exploring? Let’s drive around sunny Croatia!

Table of Contents

Things to Consider When Driving in Croatia

Aside from deciding on the destinations you want to check out all over Croatia, there are lots of other factors and details you’ll need to think about before you head off on your big Croatia road trip.

Driving Rules in Croatia

Generally, driving in Croatia shouldn’t be too difficult – especially if you are used to driving in other European countries. Many of the road signs are quite similar. In Croatia, people drive on the right side of the road – as is the case in most of Europe (minus the United Kingdom, Ireland and a few others).

Distances are given in kilometres (not miles)  and speed limits are given in kilometres per hour. The speed limit for roads within cities is usually 50 kilometres per hour, 90 km/hr for rural roads and 130 km/hr on the motorways . However, always follow the specific signage and speed limits specified where you are driving!

To be able to drive a car in Croatia, you must be over the age of 18. Of course, you also need a valid drivers licence. If you are from outside of the European Union you might need a valid international drivers licence in addition to your normal licence. Please double check before departure with your transportation board/agency. If you’re renting a car , the age restrictions of the car company might be different so keep this in mind, too.

Car Rental in Croatia

Renting a car in Croatia should be pretty straight forward as this is a pretty normal scenario for visitors spending time in the country.

However, depending on where you are driving, you should check whether you are allowed to take the car across international borders.

If you’ve read any of our Croatia transportation posts you might be aware that north of Dubrovnik there is a tiny part of Bosnia and Herzegovina that reaches the coast and thus separates Croatia into two parts.

If you’re driving from the north to the south of Croatia you, therefore, have to cross the Bosnian border. We will get into the details of this border crossing if/when they affect the itineraries below, so don’t worry just yet!

While generally, rental car drivers don’t experience any problems, you should double check with your agency about the rules of changing countries. This is even more important if you consider taking a day trip to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina or Montenegro (which we would absolutely recommend if you have the time).

In both those cases, you would be crossing EU outer borders so you have to check with your rental agency whether this is allowed! You can compare rental car prices with this handy tool .

Tolls in Croatia

If you are driving on the motorway, you will have to pay tolls. During our month in Croatia, we never used the motorway so we can’t give you any specific details about our experience.

However, if you only have a limited amount of time and want to get from one place to another quickly, you might decide to use them instead. The A1 from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is probably the main toll road in the country.

While there is an option for electronic toll collection, this is probably not the best option if you are only in Croatia for a few weeks on holiday. You will most likely just pay the toll at toll gates that you pass through.

That said, make sure you have enough Croatian Kuna with you. In most cases, you can also pay with credit card and sometimes Euro.

Accommodation in Croatia

During our time in Croatia, we stayed in a few apartmani. This is just the local word for an “apartment”. We like to have our own space and cook our own meals when we stay in a place for more than just a few days.

That said, when doing a road trip you’ll have lots more options for places to stay since you can drive to places high up on the coast (with the best views). You won’t have to rely on staying only in the city centre or on bus routes to get you around/home.

Another bonus of our own apartment is that you’ll have cheap/free parking with the apartment.  We will mention suitable accommodation throughout the post, but if you want to get an idea of what’s out there right now, start searching below:

• For charming old towns – Check for Accommodations in Dubrovnik .
• For easy island hopping – Check for Accommodations in Split .
• For discovering the capital city-  Check for Accommodations in Zagreb .
• For seaside vibes- Check for Accommodations in Pula .
• For Roman ruins –  Check for Accommodations in Zadar .

If you’re on a budget – or you simply like to stay in more of a community – then you might book hostels in Croatia. Lots of hostels will have parking but not all of them.

It’s important to check the booking site and/or call the hostel if you’re unsure whether you can park your car there.  Check out hostels in Croatia here .

Top Activities in Croatia

If you’re planning a road trip around Croatia, you’ll likely find that there are lots of cities, towns, and attractions that you can visit. The amount of top things to do in Croatia is staggering!

As for things to do in each place, those can be a little more tricky to figure out. It’s important to do your research beforehand if you’re going to Croatia in the busy summer season from June to September. The best attractions and tours get booked up and it can make impromptu planning a little more tricky.

So, to help you out, we’ve included a few ideas of things that you can do while touring around Croatia. We’ve discussed things to do briefly in each of the cities we know best but to help you out, you can also browse the top tours and attractions before you start planning.

Remember, the summer gets busy – so best to plan and book the things you are absolutely keen on doing if you know your travel dates ahead of time!

Dubrovnik 3-Hour Sea Kayaking Tour with Snack – Kayak the Adriatic Coast Around Historic Dubrovnik! Zagreb: 2.5-Hour Walking Tour with Funicular Ride – Discover the Capital City + Admire the Views Hvar 5 Islands and Blue Cave Tour from Trogir and Split – Explore Beautiful Croatian Islands in a Single Day!

Croatia Road Trip – 5 Day Itinerary

If you planned on doing a shorter road trip in Croatia, it’d be best to fly into one of the larger centres, rent your car, take yourself to the main sights, and then drop it off and fly out. To do this, there are a few different versions of a 5 day Croatia road trip.

You COULD go top to bottom in 5 days but it would be a very rushed trip. In our opinion, you wouldn’t get to take in the sights in the places you stop because you’d be so conscious that you have to hop in the car and drive to the next location. Because of this, we suggest a Northern Croatia itinerary and a Southern Croatia itinerary – both of which are about 5 days long.

Croatia Road Trip – Northern Trip

This route includes more of the scenic national parks and less of the famed Adriatic Coast. It’s about 1,000 km if you hug the coast between Pula and Zadar and about 14 hours of driving time total . There are also tolls on this route. To avoid tolls, you’d take quite a few turns from Zagreb to Pula and would have to add a little extra driving time.

Day 1: Start in Zagreb Day 2: Pula/Rovinj/Poreč or Rijeka Day 3: Zadar Day 4: Skradin + Krka National Park Day 5: Back to Zagreb 

Day 1: Start in Zagreb

Ah, Zagreb – the perfect place to begin any Croatia road trip. The capital city is also Croatia’s largest, and there is no shortage of things to do and see. What makes the city unique is the fact that it’s NOT on the coast. While many of the coastal towns and cities get all the attention (and for good reason) Zagreb stands as a stunning centre of culture, tucked away – almost hidden – among the nearby bigger cities Europe.

Picking up a car in Zagreb would be easy seeing as it’s a huge centre of tourist activity. In general, Day 1 of your Northern Croatia itinerary is very dependent on when you arrive and how. Depending on when you fly or drive in, you will have more or less time in the capital city.

In any case, you can do what you like on the first day but we recommend you spend a night in Zagreb if you want to see more of the city that day and the following day as well.  Check here for accommodations in Zagreb . Specifically, Main Street Apartment is a gorgeous Zagreb apartment in the city centre with  free private parking.

If you have the time, you could consider an optional tag-on trip to Varaždin, which is about an hour drive north of the capital. This Baroque city has a medieval charm with the old town and fortifications to check out.

Day 2: Pula/Rovinj/Poreč or Rijeka

On Day 2, you’ll head for the northwestern coast of Croatia. There are lots of places you could set as your main destination. On the above map, we chose Pula to show you how far the drive could potentially be from Zagreb. The drive from Zagreb to Pula is about 3 hours . However, instead of Pula, you could just as easily drive to Rovinj or Poreč which are within the hour north of Pula on the coast.

Pula is the bigger centre that people gravitate to and then use it as a base to visit the other two towns on a day trip. However, you can easily stay in the other two to avoid the crowds – even though Rovinj is still quite popular. Check for your accommodation in  Pula or Rovinj or Poreč .

• If you end up in Pula, Park Plaza Histria is a relaxed resort hotel with  free parking.
• If you end up in Rovinj, Apartments Isabella is an authentic apartment with  free parking.
• In Poreč, Apartments Maj  are clean apartments with pools and free private parking .

If you didn’t want to drive all the way to the far west coast knowing you would see it in Zadar, then you could make your stop to sleep in Rijeka. This lesser-talked about city is actually the third largest in Croatia so it has lots to offer.

As a main seaport, the city has been a crossroads for the world of centuries and it shows in the architecture, the history, the layout of the city, and the things to do!

If you plan on sleeping in Rijeka, check here for hotels or apartments in Rijeka . Specifically, Casa San Vito is a bright, central apartment in Rijeka with cheap  parking available nearby.

Day 3: Zadar

On Day 3, you’ll head for Zadar. Eric visited Zadar on a trip with friends in 2013 and he’s been dying to get back. The drive to Zadar from Pula will take about 5 hours but will be less if you stop and sleep in Rijeka instead. Just remember to hug the coastline for a stunning drive. You’ll pass through tiny seaside towns in which you can choose to stop at or not – time depending!

This is a simple day and you’ll have time to explore the city once you get in. You’ll have a short driving day tomorrow so don’t feel guilty for stopping along the coast or getting into Zadar late. You can also explore Zadar the next morning before you head for Krka.

To sleep in Zadar, the best places are in the historic centre or on the coast – check out accommodations in Zadar . Check out Apartmani Natali , an authentic apartment with  free private parking.  You could even choose a hostel – the Mellow Monkey in Zadar made our list of our  favourite hostels in Europe !

Day 4: Skradin + Krka National Park

Day 4 is going to be a great day if you like exploring waterfalls! Today, you’ll drive to the small town of Skradin, which has one of the main entrances to Krka National Park! The drive to Skradin from Zadar is about an hour so it’s not too long. You can also choose to stop in Šibenik (a nice coastal town/city) on the way to Krka. That said, Krka is a popular spot so it’s best to get there early-ish to catch the ferry from Skradin into the park.

If you want to visit Krka National Park – we went and wrote a whole Krka National Park Guide so you understand the entrances, the fees, and other logistics. Krka can be confusing but once you read about the main details it will make more sense. We even made a great little video about exploring Krka !

There are actually two main towns/entrances to Krka National Park at the south end of the park. So, you could sleep in the town of Skradin or you can choose to sleep in the more remote Lozovac. Each entrance comes with different pros and cons to accessing Krka so choose the one that works for you.

The ferries go from Skradin, however, and that’s what we did. Book a place to stay in historic Skradin or check out Lozovac if you are interested in a more remote experience ! If you want free parking , check out Hotel Bonaca for a central hotel in Skradin!

Day 5: Back to Zagreb

On Day 5, it’s time to wrap up your northern road trip. The drive back to Zagreb will take about 4.5 hours if you head straight there from Skradin. That said, if you didn’t have enough nature on this road trip, you could always detour on the way north to Plitviče Lakes National Park. This stop will break the drive roughly in half which can help the driver get a nice break.

In the busy season, the Plitviče Park actually closes during the day to alleviate the number of guests so keep this as a side option and not as part of the itinerary unless you’re absolutely dying to go (instead of Krka). You can learn more about visiting Plitviče here .

Another consideration for your last day is the time you need to return the car by. Each dealer is going to be different so be sure to read the fine print and adhere to the times for drop-off. This way you make sure you don’t get charged late fees or other unnecessary fees.

Croatia Road Trip – Southern Trip

If exploring classic cities like Dubrovnik and islands like Hvar is in your sights, then perhaps a Croatia road trip of the southern portions of the country is for you? This itinerary above is just over 600 kilometres with a total driving time of just over 12 hours . Of course, this is including toll routes so if you want to avoid tolls then you’ll need to adjust the driving time.

Day 1: Start in Dubrovnik Day 2: Makarska Day 3: Split (Stop in Omiš on the way) Day 4: Skradin + Krka National Park Day 5: Ferry to Hvar Day 6: Back to Dubrovnik via Hvar

With this road trip route, there are a few considerations you need to think about. If you drive from Dubrovnik towards Split, you will cross through Bosnia and Herzegovina for about 15 minutes even though you stay on the same road.

Because it’s a formal crossing in and then out of Bosnia, you’ll need your passport or ID card handy for inspection. We did this exact crossing a few times in the span of a few weeks and wrote a whole post on our  experience at this Croatia-Bosnia border crossing when we travelled from Dubrovnik to Split on a larger bus trip !

This itinerary also takes you to the island of Hvar. To get there, you’ll need to consider the ferry schedules. We’ll dive into the logistics of the ferry down below. 

If you want to drive this route in the off-season or on the days that the ferries run don’t line up with your timeline, then you can simply make Hvar a day trip from Split or skip the islands all together and hug the coast to drive back down to Dubrovnik. There are plenty of beautiful towns to stay in/stop in to fill the time.

Day 1: Start in Dubrovnik

You’ll begin this itinerary in the south of the country in the popular city of Dubrovnik. You can read all about things to do in Dubrovnik here . The bottom of the country is a busy spot, but it means that the car rental industry is well-developed. This allows you to shop around for the best deal if you have the time.

If you’re flying in, pick up your car from Dubrovnik airport, perhaps settle into your apartment or hotel, and then take the day to explore the city. Since you’ll be sleeping in Dubrovnik, you can read our guide on the best places to stay in Dubrovnik or just go ahead and  check now for top accommodations in Dubrovnik . Specifically, Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is a gorgeous hotel with  free private parking.

Day 2: Makarska

For Day 2, you’ll wake up early and hop in the car. Drive up the coast towards Makarska . The drive is about 2.5 hours so not too long for a scenic day drive up the coast. Keep in mind, you will be crossing into Bosnia and Herzegovina at the coastal town of Neum so be sure to have your passports ready.

Depending on the season, this crossing might be very quick or you might be waiting for a few hours. The earlier you wake up, the earlier you are to beat the tour buses to the border as they head for places in the north of Croatia – like Split, Zadar, Zagreb, etc.

Get into Makarska, park the car at your accommodation, and go explore the seaside town. Since you’ll be sleeping in Makarska, you’ll likely find an apartment rather than a hotel. Luckily, the industry is well-developed here. Check for accommodations in Makarska here . Specifically, Hotel Park Makarska is a lovely seaside hotel with cheap  parking.

Day 3: Split

Good morning! Today, you’re going to Split. We lived outside of Split for a few weeks in early 2018 and loved every second of it. The drive to Split from Makarska is about 1.5 hours if you hug the coast and drive through Omiš. Speaking of Omiš, this seaside town makes a great stop-in to break up the day drive.

That said, don’t spend too much time here because you’ll need to get into Split to be able to explore it to the max! Split has so much to offer – from the stunning old town to serving as a gateway to island hopping adventures. There are also lots of great day trips from Split which we cover in another post if you are interested in modifying the itinerary to suit your needs!

For this itinerary, we’d suggest sleeping in Split and booking the accommodation for two nights. It’ll make the rest of the itinerary easy to execute.

You can check here for accommodations in Split or read our guide on where to stay in Split . Specifically, Marta Sea Residence is a lovely apartment with  free parking  available in front of the accommodation. Split parking can be a real challenge so this is a pretty good deal.

If you want to see the beautiful Split Old Town, you can watch our video on our YouTube Channel here .

On Day 4, you’re going to drive to Skradin from Split to where you can enter and explore Krka National Park. The drive (depending on Split morning traffic and where you stay) can take anywhere from 1-2 hours . We’ve covered this in the above itinerary but, again, if you want to visit Krka National Park – here is our Krka National Park Guide  that has all the essential information you’ll need to visit.

The difference in this itinerary from the one above is that instead of sleeping close to Krka National Park, you’ll return to Split because the next morning you’ll hop onto the ferry to Hvar from Split. Once again, here’s where to look for places to stay in Split .

Day 5: Hvar

On Day 5, you’re going to head to the famous island of Hvar. For this itinerary, you slept in Split and so you can take an early ferry from Split with your car. This ferry schedule for Split to Hvar with a car is here  – with the journey taking about 2 hours to Stari Grad on Hvar.

In the summer, there are more frequent ferries but in the off-season getting to Hvar can be trickier. If you are taking a car, it’s recommended to be there 1-2 hours early to load the car given the other traffic that needs to get to the island as well. There is a chance you don’t get on the ferry if you don’t book ahead or if you aren’t there early enough with your car.

It’s also important to consider the price of a ferry ticket with your car. These two ferry crossings are among the few in Croatia that allow for cars. Many of the other island hoppers on catamarans are “foot traffic” only.

Either way, the trip is worth it. Hvar is a very cool island to explore and having a car makes it easy to discover lots of different places that the buses simply don’t reach. Check out our guide on the best things to do in Hvar . You can also rent a car ON the island but you’ll need to ditch your old car (or just leave it in Split and grab it again if you want to come back to Split?).

We suggest you spend the night on Hvar so you don’t have to worry about the ferry crossing twice in one day. Check here for accommodation on the island of Hvar . Specifically, Labranda Senses on Hvar is a tranquil resort with  free parking.

Alternatively, if you want to leave the island hopping for its own day trip and leave the car in Split, you might consider an island hopping tour that takes you to 5 islands (including Hvar). Read about our Croatia Island Hopping day trip  because it was an absolute blast of a day and well worth the money!

Day 6: Back to Dubrovnik via Hvar

On the last day, you’ll return to Dubrovnik. There are a few ways you can do this depending on how you got to Hvar and what you took with you. If you took the car on the ferry, then you can drive the length of the island (1.5 hours) and leave the island via the Sucuraj-Drvenik Ferry . The ferry schedule for Sucuraj to Drvenik (with a car) is here .

From Drvenik, the drive back to Dubrovnik would be just over 2 hours and you’ll cross through Bosnia again on the highway. If you did a day trip to Hvar (or skipped Hvar altogether) and you are leaving for Dubrovnik from Split , then the drive is about 3.5 hours down the highway you came up.

Croatia Road Trip – 7 Day Itinerary

Our version of a 7 day Croatia Road Trip would be a mix of both itineraries above. With one week to drive around, you could very well drive the length of the country to see the best spots and still have the time to see smaller gems along the way.

We’ve already covered most of the places below in the itineraries above but we will cover them again with respect to this itinerary! So, your updated 7 day Croatia road trip itinerary could look something like:

Day 1: Start in Dubrovnik Day 2: Makarska Day 3: Split (Stop in Omiš on the way) Day 4: Krka National Park + Skradin Day 5: Zadar Day 6:  Pula/Rovinj/ Poreč or Rijeka Day 7: Back to Zagreb

For this road trip, the total distance is about 1000 kilometers with a total driving time of about 14 hours . This is similar to the northern Croatia road trip itinerary we presented except that one is a loop from Zagreb.

Isn’t it crazy – you can cover the length of the country in basically the same time/distance! Of course, these are rough estimates. The actual time is dependent on traffic in the centres you pass through, border crossings into and out of Bosnia and Herzegovina (which we covered above), and a variety of other factors.

You’ll notice that this itinerary takes you from bottom to top of the country but you could easily reverse the order. Since it doesn’t take you onto any islands, there are no ferry schedules to worry about.

This route as planned also includes tolls but you can avoid them. If you do so, you’ll end up on smaller roads and not the major routes. While this is generally safe for travel, it’s a good idea to have (or rent) a GPS so that you don’t end up getting turned around and lost in the Croatian countryside!

Day 1 – 3: Start in Dubrovnik, Makarska, Split

The beginning of this itinerary is the same as the “5 Day Southern Trip” outlined above. Start in Dubrovnik and drive to Makarska. Remember the border crossing through Bosnia.

Then drive from Makarska to Split – stopping in Omiš on the way. If this is how you want to start your 7-day itinerary around Croatia, then you can get started looking for accommodation in Dubrovnik , Makarska , and Split .

• Starting in Dubrovnik, Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is a gorgeous hotel with  free private parking.
• In Makarska, Hotel Park Makarska is a lovely seaside hotel with cheap  parking.
• In Split,  Marta Sea Residence is a charming apartment with  free parking  available in front of the accommodation. Split parking can be a real challenge so this is a GOOD find.

Day 4 – 5: Krka National Park + Zadar

On Day 4 and 5, you’ll drive from Split to Krka National Park. We discussed Krka National Park in length above in the “5 Day Northern Trip” itinerary above in this post. The drive takes between 1 and 2 hours . For this itinerary, we suggest sleeping in Skradin as opposed to returning to Split. This is because you will be heading to Zadar after Krka which is continuing up the coast in a northern direction.

However, since the drive from Split to Krka/Skradin is only like an hour, you don’t HAVE to sleep in Skradin – just a suggestion. Sleeping in Skradin allows you to see more of the park later into the day since you don’t have to drive home as far!  Book a place to stay in historic Skradin  close to Krka. Again, Hotel Bonaca in Skradin has  free parking.

For Day 5, you’ll drive to Zadar up the coast from Krka, as we mentioned. This drive takes about an hour. We’ve discussed Zadar in the Northern itinerary above so consider spending your night in Zadar . Again,  Apartmani Natali  is an authentic apartment with  free private parking

Day 6: Pula/Rovinj/ Poreč or Rijeka

On Day 6, you’ll head up from Zadar to any of the following places: Pula, Rovinj, or Poreč on the coast, and Rijeka tucked away more inland.  The map for this itinerary has “F” as Pula but it is more to show the general location of this leg of the journey. We’ve covered all of these locations in brief in the above itineraries.

The drive from Zadar to Pula is about 5 hours but is reduced if you stop in Rijeka instead. Check for your accommodation in  Pula or Rovinj or Poreč  and if you’re thinking Rijeka, check for hotels and apartments in Rijeka .

• In Pula, Park Plaza Histria is a relaxed resort hotel with  free parking.
• In Rovinj,  Apartments Isabella is an authentic apartment with  free parking.
• In Rijeka, Casa San Vito is a bright, central apartment with cheap  parking available nearby.

Day 7: Zagreb

On the last day, you’ll finish up your week long Croatia road trip in Zagreb. The drive from Pula is about 3 hours but less if you stayed in Rijeka. We cover Zagreb in the top itinerary on “Northern Croatia – 5 Days” itinerary but if you nee to stay over in Zagreb, check here for accommodations in Zagreb . Again, Main Street Apartment is a beautiful city centre accommodation in Zagreb with free private parking.

That concludes our epic itinerary for a 7 day Croatia road trip. As we mentioned, you can reverse the order if you want to start in Zagreb. Feel free to swap out cities and towns for ones that you want to check out. This is only to serve as a driving guide to show you distances and help you plan! That said, you COULD travel this as is – if you do, let us know!

Croatia Road Trip – 14 Day Itinerary

Here it is. The big one. The epic road trip. If you wanted a two week Croatia road trip, this could be the itinerary for you. 14 days to drive around Croatia is quite a while but you would certainly see a great deal of this awesome country.

Our version is written from south to north, so from Dubrovnik to Zagreb. As with most of our itineraries, you can reserve the direction if you feel like going from inland Croatia to the coast instead. So, to really see the whole country, your updated 14 day Croatia road trip itinerary might look something like this:

Day 1: Start in Dubrovnik Day 2: Makarska Day 3: Ferry to Hvar Day 4: Hvar Day 5: Ferry to Split Day 6: Day Trip to Omiš Day 7: Kaštela Day 8: Day Trip to Trogir Day 9: Krka National Park + Skradin Day 10: Šibenik Day 11: Zadar Day 12: Pula Day 13: Rovinj or Poreč Day 14: End in Zagreb

This road trip would be a beast. As planned above with the scheduled day trips you’d cover around 1300 kilometres . The driving time would be around 20 hours – but of course, this varies by traffic, border crossings, ferry crossings, which day trips you opt to take, etc. You should also consider the price of renting a car for two weeks to see if there are any companies that offer discounts!

Depending on the ferry schedule and season, you could cut the two nights in Hvar and stick to the mainland coast, doubling a night in any one of the following places: Dubrovnik, Omiš, Šibenik or Rijeka. Alternatively, you could also add on Varaždīn at the end.

To make this modification, you would just go from Dubrovnik to Split through Makarska and add on things to see/places to stop in the north of the country. Alternatively, you could just slow the pace to see another national park like Plitviče (you’d get to it from Zadar or Rijeka).

Day 1 – 2: Start in Dubrovnik, Makarska

Like we’ve mentioned in the above itineraries, start in Dubrovnik and drive to Makarska on Day 2. The key here is that you don’t extend the drive to Omiš – you’ll see Omiš later on this trip. The drive from Dubrovnik to Makarska is 2.5 hours . Get started looking for accommodation in Dubrovnik  and  Makarska .

• In Dubrovnik,  Sun Gardens Dubrovnik is a gorgeous hotel with  free private parking.

Day 3 – 4: Ferry to Hvar

You’ll have to take the Sucuraj-Drvenik Ferry we discussed in the 7 Day itinerary. You’ll explore Hvar Town and sleep in Hvar Town this evening. The drive from the ferry crossing to Hvar Town on Hvar is about 1.5 hours – or the length of the island of Hvar, basically. On Day 4, you’ll explore Hvar but move to Stari Grad and sleep in Stari Grad to catch the ferry the next day. You can’t get the ferry from Hvar Town.  Check here for accommodation on the island of Hvar . As mentioned above,  Labranda Senses  is a tranquil resort with  free parking.

Day 5 – 6: Split and Omiš Day Trip

On Day 5, you’ll take the ferry from Hvar to Split and sleep in Split for two nights. This is because you’ll use it as a base to do a day trip on Day 6 to Omiš. The drive from Split to Omiš about an hour one-way .  Check here for the best accommodations in Split .

In Split, Marta Sea Residence is a lovely apartment with  free parking  available in front of the accommodation. Split parking can be a real challenge so this is a GOOD deal.

Day 7: The Kaštela

On Day 7, you’ll explore the area outside of Split as you head up the coast towards Zadar and Krka. Kaštela is one town made up of seven small seaside villages that were created centuries ago and remain to this day. Located about 30 minutes outside of Split, they are a great getaway from the busy city.

As small fortified fishing villages, there is a ton of history packed away in these small towns. We stayed in Kaštel Kambelovac for a few weeks and we think you should stay in one of the Kaštela as well! Check here for apartments in the seaside Kaštela outside of Split . Check out Vasto Apartments – comes with  free parking  in Kaštel Kambelovac! – but you can use this place as a base for two nights if you so choose!

Day 8: Trogir

On Day 8, you can take a day trip to thew historic town of Trogir. Trogir is known for its medieval old town that sits on its own island and was a strategic point in Croatia’s defense and trading many, many years ago. Today, the rich history draws visitors in huge numbers and it’s worth checking out!

We suggest sleeping in your place in the Kaštela since you have the car and it’s very close. However, since you are heading to Krka after Trogir and you’d be backtracking to go back to your base you COULD sleep in Trogir since it’s very popular and there are SO many places to book. Check here for accommodations in historic Trogir . Specifically,  Hotel Brown is a trendy beach house & spa just outside Trogir with  free parking .

Day 9: Krka National Park + Skradin

On Day 9, head to Krka National Park – which we have covered in detail in the above itineraries. The drive from Split would be about 1.5 hours and slightly shorter from the Kaštela or Trogir since you’re already outside the busy city centre traffic.

We suggest sleeping in Skradin since you’ll be continuing up the coast.  Check here for a place to stay in historic Skradin close to Krka!  Again, Hotel Bonaca is a central hotel with  free parking  in Skradin!

Day 10: Šibenik

On Day 10, you’l drive from Skradin to Šibenik. This is a very short drive (20 minutes) so you’ll have loads of time to explore the two places. Alternatively, you can keep your base in Skradin and make Šibenik a day trip. However, since you’ll head to Zadar tomorrow changing your sleeping base to somewhere on the highway/coast would be worth it.

So, if you want to sleep in Šibenik, search for accommodations in Šibenik on the coast ! Specifically, Apartment Luka is centrally in the Old Town BUT the host will guide you to cheap parking !

Day 11: Zadar

On Day 11, head for Zadar up the coast from Šibenik about 1.5 hours . The next few days are pretty simple and we’ve covered them above but we’ll do it again if this is the first time you’re reading this itinerary. Check out accommodations in Zadar . Again,  Apartmani Natali  is an authentic apartment with  free private parking .

Day 12 – 13: Pula and Rovinj or Poreč

Day 12 takes you to Pula from Zadar, a drive of about 5 hours along the coast. Day 13 takes you from Pula to Rovinj or Poreč. The drive would be very short – about 40 minutes to an hour if you go to Poreč . Depending on what you want to see, you can choose to stay in one of these coastal places and day trip to the other, or just choose one and make it easy. Check for your accommodation in  Pula  and  Rovinj or Poreč .

Day 14: Zagreb

Finally, on Day 14, you’ll drive from the coast (wherever you stopped) to Zagreb. The drive is about 3 hours from those locations but will vary depending on traffic and other factors. If you need to drop off the car, remember to be mindful of the drop-off hours so you don’t get fined or charged extra! Staying in Zagreb? Check for accommodations to spend a night in Zagreb . Again, Main Street Apartment is a gorgeous Zagreb apartment in the city centre with  free private parking.

And there you have it – some of the best put together Croatia road trip itineraries out there! Obviously, these can be travelled as is or modified how you like. We just tried to give you the baseline knowledge to put together the road trip of your dreams.

We loved Croatia and look forward to exploring even more of it with a car. Don’t forget to make arrangements for your rental car before you start your adventure!

Even though we spent a few weeks there, we know there is so much more to discover! Have you road tripped around Croatia? What do you think of these itineraries? Get in touch and let us know if you end up travelling one of them! We’ve love to hear it!

As always, Happy Croatia Road Trip Waddlin’, – L&E

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Best 7 Days in Croatia Itinerary: Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Croatia is an amazing country with beautiful coastlines and islands, rich culture and history, delicious food, and incredible yet inexpensive wines.

Even though Croatia is a small country, you can spend easily a few weeks there without getting bored. There are so many islands to explore. But, in this itinerary, I will give first-time visitors a 7-day itinerary to experience the highlights of Croatia from its northern capital city Zagreb to the famous southern historic town, Dubrovnik.

Day 1: Arrive into Zagreb

Zagreb and Dubrovnik are the two major airports in Croatia for international arrivals and departures. To optimize your itinerary, I recommend booking your flight into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik to avoid backtracking. You can also do it reversely.

The capital of Croatia, Zagreb, is a beautiful vibrant city. If you arrive in Zagreb early, you can explore the city and spend the evening in the old city center. If you have an extra day, I definitely recommend spending a full day exploring Zagreb.

If you flight arrives late in the day, spend the evening near the airport.

Day 2: Plitvice Lake National Park

In the morning, drive around 2 hours (140km) from Zagreb to Plitvice Lake National Park.

Plitvice Lake National Park has a well built boardwalk system navigating through the park. Take a boat ride over the pristine lake and feed fish along the way.

In the mid afternoon, drive 1.5 hours further southwest to Zadar, where you will be spending the night. After checking into the hotel, head to the waterfront in the old town to wait for a beautiful sunset by the underwater organ. It’s such a romantic and peaceful setting watching people swimming and boats passing by.

Stay at Palazzo Venezia or Classy Design Accommodation in the old town of Zadar to take full advantage of Zadar’s evening beauty and dining experience. Pay attention to parking situations. Most hotels don’t have parking nearby.

Day 3: Zadar

In the morning, explore Zadar before tourists arrive. Get on the tower

After lunch, start heading toward Split where you will spend the evening. The drive to Split for around 1.5 hours (160km). Split is a much bigger city than Zadar and the traffic can be hectic especially as you approach the old town and the port.

If you are staying in the heart of the old town hotel like Hotel Vestibul Palace , you probably want to contact the hotel ahead of time to get their advice on where to park your car. The old town is pedestrian only. I recommend staying in the old town because most of the hotels are built on the old palace itself. It’s worth to drag your luggage and walk into the old town in my opinion. The Diocletian’s Palace is alive and more enjoyable at night.

Or, you can find a hotel like the Bajamonti 5 in Split rarely, for a great location with parking and a fantastic view of the Diocletian’s Palace. It’s also close to many restaurants and bars and nightlife.

For dinner, besides all the delicious fish, clams, and scallops most Split restaurants offer, give the fish fries a try. It’s addictive!

Day 4: Split

After breakfast, head to the Diocletian’s Palace before tour buses arrive. Hire a local guide to explore the amazing old town morphed from Roman emperor, Diocletian’s retirement palace. Our guide was a history professor at the University of Croatia. He is a wealth of knowledge and interesting history lessons. Check out this Walking Tour of Split with a “Magister” of History .

I will give you two options to choose from for tomorrow:

Option 1: visit Mjlet National Park through a car ferry from Ston

Option 2: take a day tour for the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split

Under option 1, you will pick up your luggage from the hotel in Split and drive an hour to spend the night in a much quieter and quint coastal town, Ston.

Stay at the beautiful Bed & Breakfast Sorgo Palace in Ston. Enjoy your dinner at one of the local seafood restaurant for fresh oysters and fish.

Under option 2, simply spend another night in Split and take a day tour the next morning: Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split.

Day 5: Mjlet National Park, or, Hvar and More Island Hopping

Option 1 for today:

After checking out of your hotel in Ston, head to the ferry station for the car ferry to Mjlet Island. We visited Mjlet on a cloudy day so the colors are less vibrant. But you can see how beautiful the water still is in the photo.

After returning to the mainland, drive 1.5 hours from Ston to Dubrovnik airport to return your rental car. Parking in Dubrovnik is quite challenging. You can easily explore Dubrovnik and relax for one day and two nights without a car. We got a very expensive parking ticket during our visit. Signs are pitiful even if they exist.

If you got to Dubrovnik before dark, get on the city walk to catch the sunset and watch people diving off the cliffs below the old city wall.

Hotels in old town Dubrovnik are limited. You may have to stay a few miles outside toward the airport. The Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel is only 15 minutes drive away. You can also stay at Villas and Apartments Mlini to relax at the Mlini Beach after exploring Dubrovnik on a day trip.

Option 2 for today:

If you want to visit the Blue Cave and five islands including Hvar, a more famous island, you will be picked up in the morning for the Five Island Speedboat Tour Featuring the Blue Cave and Hvar from Split.

Depending on the length of the tour, you may not be back in Split until early evening. You may have to spend another night in Split and travel to Dubrovnik early the next morning.

Day 6: Dubrovnik

Your hotel may be able to arrange transportation to Dubrovnik in the morning. Or you can take a Discover the Old Town Dubrovnik Walking Tour . For the Game of Thrones fans, take the Game of Thrones Walking Tour of Dubrovnik .

If you took option 2 yesterday, you may drive from Split directly toward Dubrovnik. The drive takes about 3 hours (235km).

After the tours, walk around the old city wall. Stop at a restaurant or bar along the way. Watch how residents live their daily lives peacefully while tourists admire and enjoy this amazing old town with excitement.

Day 7: Depart from Dubrovnik

Sadly, it’s time to leave Croatia. I hope your first visit make you want to return to Croatia as we did.

If you have any questions or want to share your experience in Croatia, leave a message below.

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10 Day Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Zagreb

Home » Destinations » Europe » Croatia » 10 Day Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Zagreb

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Updated: 26th January 2024

I often credit Croatia with my love of slow travel. My first month-long backpacking trip saw me traverse the country from tail to toe, exploring with a tent, guidebook and an ad hoc itinerary. But if you’ve not got as much time to spare, you can certainly fit many of Croatia’s highlights into a 10-day Croatia itinerary. If you can spare two weeks, even better, you could also include a detour to the hidden gems of the Istria peninsula. 

This 10-day Croatia itinerary packs in plenty, mainly focused along Croatia’s Adriatic coast. From storied Dubrovnik to Split and the slightly more underrated cities of Zadar and Zagreb, via some of Croatia’s best islands , you’ll get a great first overview of the country.  

Still, if you want to make your itinerary a little more laidback – this is one of Europe’s best beach destinations , after all – you could cut an island or national park from the route below to enjoy some more downtime. 

In this article...

How to get around Croatia: ferry, cruise, car or bus?

Between April and October, getting around Croatia is a breeze. Plenty of ferries, tourist buses, and tour options make exploring the islands and interior of the country straightforward. Outside of this holiday season, you’ll need to do a bit more research to ensure that schedules align with your plans and that the destinations you pick are fully open and not shuttered for the winter – most of these inclusions should be. That’s not to say Croatia is a bad winter destination , just that you’ll have more freedom and longer days to explore during the warmer months.

You might also want to consider exploring the Dalmatia coast exclusively by boat and then switching to bus or car from Split onwards. There are plenty of small ship Croatia cruise operators to choose from, offering a range of itineraries covering different islands and cities in varying levels of comfort and price points, so research is key to finding your perfect sailing.

But even if you’d prefer to travel DIY, I’d not recommend hiring a car for the first week of this 10-day Croatia itinerary. Parking costs are high, car ferries are less regular than foot-passenger ferries, and it’s easy enough to cover some of the islands and southern cities without a car. Then, once arriving in Split, you can decide whether to continue the rest of the journey by bus or if you’d prefer the freedom of doing a road trip between Split and Zagreb. Either way, I’ve included advice, routes and stops for either option below, luggage storage (you might want to download a travel app such as Bounce) suggestions for those travelling by bus, and parking-friendly hotels too.

7, 10 or 14-day Croatia itinerary: which is best?

These Croatia itineraries are aimed at covering as much ground as you can, so it’s fairly fast-paced. Personally, the reason I fell in love with Croatia is the chilled vibes and the fact when I first crossed the country, I did it slowly, with no real plan. So, keep in mind it’s a lengthy country, and if you don’t feel the urge to go to a particular place, just cut it out to make these 10 or 14-day Croatia itineraries slower-paced. Or, if time is precious, opt for a 7-day Croatia itinerary instead.

This 10-day itinerary starts in Dubrovnik and ends in Zadar or Zagreb, depending on where you choose to fly out from. If you’d prefer to cover the Dubrovnik to Split section by boat, then these one-week cruises around Croatia that flit between the islands and Adriatic cities would work, and then you could pick up a car for the final days, or use buses if you’d prefer to leave the driving to someone else.

10-Day Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Zadar  

• Day One: Arrival & Dubrovnik
• Day two: Dubrovnik 
• Day three: Korcula
• Day four: Hvar 
• Day five: Split
• Day six: Split

Day seven: Trogir & Sibenik

• Day eight: Zadar 
• Day nine: Plitvice National Park

Day ten: Zagreb and departure

Sleep: Dubrovnik for two nights (Budget suggestion: Hostel Angelina | Parking included: Hotel Excelsior )

Getting around: There are public and shuttle bus options available from the airport. If you’re hiring a car for this 10-day Croatia itinerary, keep in mind that parking is difficult and expensive in the Old Town, so try to find a hotel with parking included.

• Dump your bags and take an orientation walk around town to get your bearings, or slink off to Plaža Banje for a swim and sunbathe to ease into your trip with views of the Old Town.
• Before sunset, take the cable car up to Mount Srđ for perfect panoramas across the city’s terracotta roofs to watch the crimson sun disappear.
• Enjoy dinner from a high at Restaurant Panorama, or head back into the Old Town for a more peaceful meal now the cruise ships and day trippers departed.

• Wake up early to make the most of the city before the crowds descend – especially as this is the only full day in Dubrovnik on this 10-day Croatia itinerary. Take a brief walking tour from Pile Gate down the main thoroughfare, Stradun, admiring the 15th-century Onofrio Fountain, Franciscan Church and Monastery, Zvonik (Clocktower), Church of St. Blaise and the Palača Sponza.
• Continue out to the waterfront at Porat Dubrovnik and then explore some of the small side streets in the Old Town.
• As day trippers arrive and the heat starts to pick up, double back to visit the interiors of some of those key attractions, starting with the Franciscan Church and Monastery, which closes at 2 pm.
• After lunch, you’ll have time to visit another monument or museum. The Palača Sponza’s courtyard (free entry) is a fantastic example of 16th-century Renaissance and Venetian architecture. Or head inside the Rector’s Palace, which doubles as a museum.
• Closer to sunset, but before closing time, head up to walk the Old Town walls (check hours; they vary by season) so you can linger until the very end and try to get a few brief moments of serenity. There are combined tickets available for the walls and some other attractions. 
• Enjoy a fresh seafood feast in the Old Town. 

Day three: Dubrovnik and Korcula

Sleep: Korcula for one night – or two if you’d rather skip Hvar and go a bit slower (Budget suggestion: Hostel Korcula | Cheap parking: Aminess Liburna )

Getting around: The direct foot passenger ferry from Dubrovnik to Korcula takes around two hours. If you’re travelling by car (or fancy a detour by bus), then head to Orebic (around 1:45) and take the car ferry from there (15 minutes) – the journey times are similar either way.

Morning 

• Start early again to beat the crowds and head to Fort Lovrijenac for its opening time (usually 8 am). Allow yourself an hour or two to explore this historic defensive fort and enjoy the Adriatic views over to the Old Town. 
• An alternative, or a bonus, is to take a kayak tour around the fort (try and get an early departure, around 10 am) for another perspective.
• Enjoy a quick lunch before travelling onwards to Korcula Island. Ferry schedules vary by season, but aim for the 13:00 departure or the 15:00 departure if you’ve done a kayaking tour. Book these tickets in advance. 
• The first island of this 10-day itinerary is Korcula, and you’ll arrive around two hours later into the 10th-century Old Town, often referred to as ‘Mini Dubrovnik’. 
• Dump your bags and have a wander. The Korcula Town Museum , housed in an old palace, is open into the evening, while the Saint Mark’s Church bell tower offers some pretty views over the island and sea.
• Enjoy a delicious sunset meal outside the walls, next to the lapping waves. Fresh seafood here is first-class and pairs well with the island’s own wines. Moreska sword dancing is one of Korcula’s most treasured customs, and while performances aren’t daily, ask around to see if there’s a show you could try and catch this evening. 

Day four: Korcula and Hvar 

Sleep: Hvar Town or Stari Grad (Budget options are few and far between in Hvar, so shop around to find the best choice)

Getting around: The direct foot passenger ferry between Korcula and Hvar takes around 90 minutes. If you’ve hired a car, there are no direct car ferries to Hvar from Korcula. You would need to go first to Split (Korcula’s car ferry departs from Vela Luka) and then take a car ferry to Stari Grad (not Hvar Town). As such, you might want to spend an extra day exploring Korcula instead and skip Hvar. 

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast followed by a little beach time. If it’s summer, it’s already going to be warm. Pebbly Luka Korculanska near the Old Town is an easy choice, or you could make the short excursion to Badija Island.
• Mid-morning, aim to book a wine tasting tour . These under-the-radar wines are great, and they will give you the chance to see a little more of the island while someone else does the driving. Some tours also include lunch. Alternatively, head underwater – I found the scuba diving decent here, although they weren’t my most memorable dives.
• Again, check ferry schedules for the month you’re visiting, but aim to take the foot-passenger route onwards to Hvar Town around either 13:00 or 17:00 (if you’ve joined a wine tour). 
• On arrival, stroll the storied streets, grab a drink in Saint Stephen’s Square across from the Baroque cathedral, and then, at sunset, head up to the Hvar Fortress (Fortica). A defensive structure has been here since the Byzantine times, and the vistas are incredible. It’s a small entrance fee but well worth it; just check on closing times (usually around 9 pm).
• For dinner, there’s no shortage of upscale restaurants to pick from – Hvar has long been a haunt of the rich and famous. After dining, you’ll likely have plenty of choices for a party, too, especially in summer.

Day five: Hvar and Split 

Sleep: Split for two nights (Budget suggestion: Hurricane Hostel | Free parking: very few hotels close to the Old Town have free or cheap parking, so you’ll likely be looking at paying around €20+ per day)

Getting around: The direct foot passenger ferry between Hvar Town or Stari Grad and Split takes between one and two hours, depending on which sailing you take.

• To make the most of this 10-day Croatia itinerary and avoid doubling back, I’d suggest crossing Hvar Island to visit Stari Grad, the oldest town in Croatia, for a couple of hours this morning. This way, you can leave your bags at the hotel and pick them up before the afternoon ferry. You can take them to Stari Grad if you wish and take a ferry from there, but there isn’t any official luggage storage near that port.
• Take the morning bus from Hvar Town to Stari Grad around 9:30 (check seasonal schedules) and spend a couple of hours strolling around the historic streets. 
• Head back to Hvar Town around 12:30 for lunch and a final wander before taking the afternoon ferry.
• Check seasonal schedules, and choose from a ferry onwards to Split around 14:30 or 17:00. The ferry port in Split isn’t too far from the Old Town, so you can choose to walk if you wish.
• This enchanting Unesco-listed city is one of the country’s finest. The Old Town is a former Roman emperor’s palace – the Diocletian’s Palace – and it creaks under the weight of its historic importance and tales.
• After ditching your bags, enjoy a walk along the Split Riva waterfront, lively by the evening, before exploring the Old Town. Particularly magical at night, there might be traditional performances happening (check in advance for tickets), but it’s just as special to enjoy from a table outside a konoba (tavern) on a back street or lively Pjaca Square. Dine on local specialties such as oysters and black risotto. 

Day six: Split 

• With a full day to tour Split, you might be feeling ready for a sleep-in, but this is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations year-round, so an early start will allow you to explore the Old Town with fewer fellow visitors. 
• Head back into the Diocletian’s Palace and wander the streets while they are still quiet. By mid-morning, it will be busy, so tour some of Split’s top attractions, such as the Underground Cellars , The Peristyle and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius.
• Post lunch, enjoy a lazy afternoon outside the Old Town walls. Walk along the Split Riva esplanade towards Marjan, a forested hill that offers some fantastic views – I highly recommend walking up to the viewing platforms for sunset.
• Make the most of the afternoon sun by chilling on one of the nearby beaches, such as Obojena or Kasjuni. Or, hide away from the sun and visit the excellent Mestrovic Sculpture Gallery.

Sleep: Zadar for two (if flying out of Zagreb) or three nights (if flying out of Zadar). If you’re going to make this into a two-week Croatia itinerary, stay for two nights here and then have a night in Pag if you want to party. Budget suggestion: Sky Hostel | Free parking: Hotel Kolovare )

Getting around: While the rest of this itinerary is best by public transport, hiring a car at this point (from Split to drop off in Zadar or Zagreb) will be handy as you can enjoy a few more detours, won’t have to worry about luggage storage, or be constrained by timetables. While this is especially true if doing the 14-day itinerary to Istria, it also will be helpful for visiting the national parks on the 10-day Croatia itinerary. See further details in the plans below. 

• Leave Split early in the morning to visit Trogir, a World Heritage Site . It’s a 30-minute drive, or you can take the FlixBus (very early departure) or one of the local companies, Promet or Samborcek. In the summer, the Bura Line ferry offers an alternative (foot-passengers only) way to cross between the two, with some lovely views from the water. Luggage can be stored at Trogir bus station for a small fee – just ask at the desk.
• Small and compact, pretty seaside Trogir is easily explored on foot in a couple of hours, with the historic core set on a small island. Venetian, Renaissance and Baroque architecture dazzles here, with architectural wonders such as the San Lorenzo Cathedral, Clock Tower, and the closed-to-the-public Cipiko Palace being standouts.

Afternoon option one: Sibenik

• From Trogir to Sibenik, it’s around a 50-minute drive or bus journey. Again, FlixBus serves this route (if you want to book in advance), as do some local operators. When you arrive at Trogir bus station, check the timetables and book your ticket to depart before or after lunch. Luggage storage is available at the bus station.
• Sibenik is a little different from its neighbours in that Croats founded it, although the architecture is quite similar. It’s a handsome city touching the Adiratic, and well worth a tour after enjoying lunch. The arrow-like Saint Nicholas Fortress is a little pricey but worth a visit if of interest, as is the Saint James Cathedral, though it’s also a great city just to explore on foot, hopping between wine bars and pretty plazas.
• From Sibenik to Zadar, it’s around an hour’s drive or 90 minutes by bus. There are public transport options into the evening with the same various companies, so you can plan to leave and continue to Zadar whenever suits you. If you’re planning to drive the road closer to the coast, it will take around 90 minutes, but you’ll have a couple of pretty stop-off points en route, such as Turanj.

Afternoon option two: Sibenik and Krka National Park (if you have a car)

• If you have a car, then you could have a quick visit to Sibenik and then go to Krka National Park today, as it’s only a 20-minute drive from Sibenik, and then continue to Zadar in the evening. Still, as Plitvice National Park is included in this Croatia itinerary, you might want to skip it. That’s not to say they aren’t both worth visiting, so do your research and decide if you’d like to tour both. If you’re reliant on public transport for timetable and luggage reasons, I’d suggest either skipping Krka or visiting tomorrow from Zadar.

Day eight: Zadar

Getting around: If you’re staying in Zadar today, enjoy a chill one; park the car and just explore on foot. 

• Enjoy a slow walk ambling around Zadar’s compact Old Town today before a lazy afternoon of swimming and sunbathing.
• Flit between the historic city walls around Five Wells Square, the ruins of the Roman Forum backed by the Church of Saint Donatus, and climb the bell tower at St Anastasia’s Cathedral for some city panoramas. 
• Enjoy a lazy afternoon on the beach. Some of the best not far from central Zadar are Kolovare and Borik. Or, for a sandy option, go a little further to Bilotinjak.
• At sunset, head down to the Sea Organ, my favourite spot in Zadar. The Sea organ is a set of underwater pipes that create a musical instrument played by the waves and tides. From the marble steps leading down to the Adriatic, you can walk amongst the sounds while watching the sunset.
• After dark, Greeting to the Sun installation is the place to be. A vast, circular glass platform along the waterfront, this nightly light show is a playful sight.
• Finish up the night with some drinks at the bars along Stomorica.

Krka National Park alternative (and two-week itinerary)

• If you prefer to visit both Krka and Plitvice, then you can take a day trip today instead of having the full day in Zadar. Take the bus to Skradin Krka . Check the seasonal timetable, but the first departure is usually around 9:00, taking 50 minutes, with return buses at 15:00 or 17:00. If you’re following the two-week version of this itinerary, then today would be the day to head to Krka. 

Day nine: Plitvice National Park (or Krka National Park) 

Sleep: Zagreb (Budget suggestion: Chillout Hostel | Free parking: Admiral Hotel )

Getting around: The drive from Zadar to Plitvice takes around 90 minutes. By car, it’s then around two hours to continue onto Zagreb if you want to spend a night in the city before flying home. Without a car, it’s also possible. There is free luggage storage at some of the park’s entrances.

Morning & Afternoon

• If you want to DIY this trip, then the Prijevoz Knežević buses (seasonal) to Plitvice depart around 8 am and return at 17:00. They also have connections onwards to Zagreb in the late afternoon. Alternatively, if you’re coming back to Zadar, then you might want to book a tour bus trip for ease of access.
• Plitvice National Park is the largest in the country, and it’s one of my favourite memories of my time in Croatia. Plan to spend the full day in the park, as while the waterfalls and lakes are absolutely the main draw, the forested area and trails extend far beyond the lake walking routes. There are a few different routes you can follow (plan in advance using the official website), including a boat ride and a short panoramic train – included in the price.
• It will be evening by the time you arrive in Zagreb. So, ditch the bags and head out to the lively Tkalčićeva Street to sample some of the excellent wine bars.

Wrapping up this Croatia in 10 days route, your final day will depend on where you’ve decided to depart from. If you’ve managed to get an evening flight out of Zagreb, great, you can spend today exploring the city (see some tips in the 14-day itinerary below). Or, if you’re flying out from Zadar, you can just enjoy a chill day on the beach before departure.

• Away from the coast, you’ll find a big shift in scenery and pace of life as you explore the melange of architectural styles that Zagreb offers, a far cry from the Venetian looks you’ve got used to.
• Start your visit in the Lower Town, as you’ll likely arrive in time for a quick visit around the Dolac Market before peeking at other popular attractions, including Zagreb Cathedral or the Art Pavilion and its surrounding gardens. Colourful Tkalčićeva Street is a good place to stop for lunch. 
• Next, head to the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), the oldest part of the city, to stroll the cobbled streets between sights such as St Mark’s Square and the flag-tiled roof of St Mark’s Church. The Museum of Broken Relationships is also well worth a visit – I found the quirky space fascinating.
• Book a late afternoon or evening flight out of Zagreb to maximise your day.

14 Day Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Zadar (including Istria)

• Day seven: Trogir & Sibenik 
• Day eight: Zadar (and/or Krka National Park)

Day nine: Zadar and Pag

Day ten: plitvice national park.

• Day eleven: Rovinj
• Day twelve: Pula
• Day thirteen: Zagreb
• Day fourteen: Zagreb & Departure

To make the 10-day Croatia itinerary into a two-week route, including Istra, follow the itinerary already detailed until day eight. From day nine, there will be some slight changes to avoid doubling back on yourself. These are as follows:

Instead of heading to Plitvice National Park on day nine, head over to Pag Island for another chilled beach day. Pag is renowned for nightlife, so you can spend a night here partying. 

Head to Plitvice for the day before continuing on to Rijeka to spend the night.

Day eleven and twelve: Istria Peninsula

Exploring the gorgeous Istrian peninsula using either Pula or Rovinj as a base. These are some of Croatia’s prettiest corners, with Roman amphitheatres, temples, and postcard-perfect small villages allowing for delicious seafood pauses. 

Day thirteen and fourteen: Zagreb

Drive to Zagreb (if you’re travelling by bus, then the 5 am Autotrans departure is perhaps the best option to enjoy a full day in Zagreb) to spend an afternoon and the following day exploring the city before your onward flight. 

Other suggestions to extend your Croatia itinerary

There’s always the option of adding on some of the neighbouring countries, too, if you have more time. Day trips to Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina , or slinking off to the Vipava Valley wine region in Slovenia are easily done and highly recommended. But however you spend your 10 days in Croatia, remember to make time to slow down and soak it all in. That’s what the Mediterranean lifestyle is about, after all. 

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Wow, this itinerary is amazing! I’m planning a trip to Croatia this summer and this post has given me so much inspiration. I can’t wait to explore Dubrovnik, Split, and Plitvice Lakes National Park. The recommendation to spend 2-3 days in each location is perfect – I never want to leave! Thanks for sharing your experiences, I can’t wait to try some of the local cuisine and drinks. Your post has made me even more excited for my trip to Croatia!

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The Best Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik to Zagreb

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: October 10, 2021

If you are planning a trip to Croatia this post will provide you with a comprehensive itinerary including places to visit, what to see, where to stay and recommended tours to ensure you make the most of your time in this beautiful European destination.

Fast facts about Croatia

Transfer from the airport to the hotel, where to stay in dubrovnik, day 2/3  – exploring dubrovnik old town, days 4/5 – day trips from dubrovnik, day 6 – sail the elafiti islands, day 7 – arboretum trsteno, choosing your accommodation in split, where to eat in split, day 11 trogir and šibenik,  day 12 krka waterfalls, day 13 take the train from split to zagreb, day 14 zagreb, final thoughts, a 7 to 15 day croatia itinerary.

Wonderful, beautiful, gorgeous…just 3 adjectives to describe a country that is rapidly growing in popularity as a destination of choice for holiday makers from all over the world.

The first decision to make when planning a trip to Croatia is where to actually go. The choices are numerous when designing your Croatia itinerary – the wonderful cities of Split and Dubrovnik , the beautiful islands of Hvar, Brač and Korčula (to name just 3 of the many islands off Croatia) or the gorgeous National Parks.

You will also find information about some of the best places to visit on day trips from Croatia. This Croatia itinerary therefore not only includes information about Croatia but also day trips into neighbouring Montenegro and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

This is a pretty packed itinerary – we like to be busy, to explore and to discover! We also completed most of this Croatia itinerary using public transport (though there are some exceptions as you will see!)

We didn’t end our holiday in Croatia but travelled on into Slovenia, Austria and Switzerland before flying home. Altogether we took 3 weeks to complete this trip but obviously it can be shortened or extended depending on you own requirements.

The first 7 days in Croatia provides a perfect Dubrovnik itinerary whilst days 8 -15 detail an itinerary for Split. Combine the two and you have a fantastic 2 week holiday.

A short history of Croatia

11th century BC – 5th century AD: The Romans lived in what was then called Dalmatia. Find amazing Roman ruins in Split and Pula (Diocletian’s Palace and a Roman ampitheater respectively)

7th century : At this time historians believe Croat tribes moved into Dalmatia.

8th century:  Spread of Christianity (90% of Croats are Catholic)

10th century: King Tomislav creates the Kingdom of Croatia when he unites Dalmatia and Pannonia.

11th century: Hungary take over Croatia. Over the next few hundred years Croatia resists attempts to conquer it by the Ottoman Empire and joins the Hapsburgs and eventually the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

1918:  After WW1 and the break up of the Austro-Hungarian Empire Croatia descends into civil war.

1945: Tito takes over as leader and Yugoslavia is born out of Bosnia, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Slovenia and Serbia.

1991:   Croatia declares its independence from Yugoslavia.

1992/5 : The Bosnian War. It is estimated that over 100,000 people died in what was the most horrific war in Europe since WW2. The murder of numerous civilians characterised this brutal and bloody war. Since the end of the war in 1995 many of the leaders have been tried and found guilty of war crimes at the International Criminal Court at The Hague.

2018 :  20 plus year after  the end of the war Croatia is a safe and independent country with a strong economy and a stable government. It is growing in popularity every year with an estimated  18.5 million tourists visiting the country in 2017.

• The capital of Croatia is Zagreb
• The currency used is the Croatian Kuna though many places accept Euros.
• The time zone is GMT +2
• Population is just over 4 million
• It has 1,777 km of coastline
• Croatian is the official language
• There are 10 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Croatia
• There are many beautiful sandy beaches to explore in Croatia

Croatia itinerary – Week One Dubrovnik

We decided to start our Croatia itinerary in the south of the country and flew into Dubrovnik .

It is just one of the many destinations in Croatia which has attracted a huge amount of attention since it was revealed that it was the main filming location in Croatia for  King’s Landing a city from the hugely successful television series “Game of Thrones.”

Day 1 – Arriving in Dubrovnik

After exploring the options of how to get to our hotel from the airport we found it was best to pre-book a transfer . If you have reserved accommodation in Dubrovnik Old Town a taxi has to drop you off at the main Pile Gate as it is pedestrian only so be aware of this especially if you have lots of luggage.

The airport is about 20 km south of Dubrovnik and you will enjoy superb views as you drive towards the city.

We decided not to actually stay in the Old Town itself.  It can become incredibly busy especially in summer (and even worse when the cruise ships dock). We decided to stay in an area called Babin Kuk which is at the northern end of the Lapad peninsula and only around 4 km from the Old Town.

Babin Kuk itself is a lovely.  It has a long pedestrianised street with lots of cafes and restaurants which is great in the evenings and was ideal for us as we had chosen a self-catering option.

Babin Kuk is a perfect area for families with numerous hotels to suit all budgets. There are lots of walking paths in Babin Kuk as well as Copacobana beach which is the longest beach in Dubrovnik.

We stayed at the Villa Antea Apartments which has an 8.3 rating on booking.com. The apartments were great value and the swimming pool, though small, had the most spectacular outlook!

FOR BUDGET CONSCIOUS FAMILIES AND COUPLES LOOKING FOR AN APARTMENT IN AN IDEAL LOCATION NEAR DUBROVNIK

We spent a couple of days exploring Dubrovnik Old Town. To get to the Pile Gate (entrance to the city) from Babin Kuk catch the number 5/6 bus. Buy your tickets on the bus as you get on.

The buses do get very busy at times so try to go earlier in the day or later afternoon. If you are planning to walk the walls I would highly recommend doing this early in the day if you are there in summer. It is incredibly hot and there is no shade. Also make sure you are wearing comfortable flat shoes, put on plenty of sun screen, take a hat and a bottle of water!

You can read more about what there is to do and see in Dubrovnik in my guide to the city.

If you are in the Old City catch a ferry across to the island of Lokrum . The island is only 600 metres from the city. No-one lives on the island and there are no cars so it is an idyllic location to relax for an afternoon.

If you enjoy kayaking I would highly recommend taking a kayaking tour of the walls of Dubrovnik (seeing them from the water – wow!) and Lokrum Island – you can book that tour via this link!

We didn’t spend more than a few hours at a time in the city as it was very hot (late August) Staying in Babin Kuk we had access to some lovely walks later in the afternoons.

On one of these walks we discovered the Cave Bar at the Hotel More which I would highly recommend. The views were beautiful at sunset. We also booked an evening meal one night. It was a most wonderful place to enjoy a romantic dinner with my husband.

We decided to take a couple of day trips from Dubrovnik to two of the surrounding countries – Montenegro and Bosnia Herzegovina. There are a large number of tour companies offering day trips to Kotor Bay and Kotor in Montenegro and Mostar in Bosnia Herzegovina.

I did a lot of research as I didn’t want to be part of a large tour. I was looking for something more personal. And I found that with Cheap Dubrovnik Tours. 

They offer bespoke tours with your own guide/driver for the day. Tell them what you want to see and they will give you options for your day’s itinerary. You are picked up and dropped back off at your hotel. As neither myself nor my husband is fond of driving this seemed like an excellent and affordable option.

We had 2 fantastic and informative days out with the company and we cannot recommend them highly enough.

With so many wonderful islands to visit by yacht in Croatia you just have to include a trip in your itinerary.

As a special treat for my husband I hired a boat for the day to take us sailing around the Elafiti Islands. The islands are a short boat ride to the north-west of Dubrovnik. We had a fantastic day and visited 2 out of the 3 inhabited islands. Being skippered for the day in a boat all to ourselves was a wonderful experience.

You can read more about our visit to the Elaphiti Islands in this article – “A day sailing the Elaphiti Island by private boat”

When I was researching and planning our holiday I came across a stunning photograph which had been taken at Arboretum Trsteno. It was also I found out later another location used during the making of Game of Thrones. 

Arboretum Trsteno is a short bus or taxi ride from Dubrovnik. We enjoyed a few hours wandering the gardens and enjoying the rather spectacular view.

I have noticed mixed reviews from visitors to Arboretum Trsteno on Trip Advisor but we enjoyed our visit.If you have the time I would certainly consider adding it into your Croatia itinerary.

Read more about visiting Arboretum Trsteno 

Alternatively you can also visit Arboretum Trsteno during a 6 hour tour of Game of Thrones locations from Dubrovnik with Get Your Guide. You can book that tour via this link.

Croatia Itinerary week 2 – Split

Day 8 – sail to split.

We caught the catamaran from Dubrovnik to Split. This service takes approximately 4 hours and operates between April and October every year. There are no car ferries between the 2 cities. Other options to travel between Dubrovnik and Split include taking a bus or hiring a car and taking a road trip.

The ferry stops in Korcula, Hvar and Brac. We found it to be a pleasant journey and I would add a stay in Hvar to our itinerary if we take this trip again. The islands looked incredibly beautiful.

To book the trip (which I did as soon as I had organised our itinerary) you have a choice between 2 companies sailing this route. 

Kapetan Luka Catamarans is a private company while Jadrolinija is the state run company.

You may like to read this article to find out more about booking ferries and catamarans in Croatia 

One tip when booking your accommodation in Split is to look for hotels or apartments within the walls of the Diocletian’s Palace. It is an experience not to miss and unlike anywhere I have ever stayed in the world.

We chose a lovely apartment called Apartment Kaleta which was perfect. Beautifully furnished, well equipped, and in a wonderful part of the Old Town I would highly recommend it. With a 9.5 rating these apartments are popular and book up well in advance.

FOR COUPLES LOOKING FOR AN IDEAL LOCATION IN SPLIT – Click to book a stay at the Apartments Kaleta

Day 9/10 Split

Split took me by surprise. I unexpectedly and unequivocally fell head over heels in love.

While I had been expecting the beauty of Dubrovnik, for me Split outshone it in every way. With the Dalmatian mountains behind and the Adriatic at its shores it is easy to understand why, 1700 years ago, a retiring Roman emperor chose it as the site on which to build his palace.

Diocletian’s Palace takes up about half of Split’s Old Town. Entering through one of its 4 impressive gates will lead you into a living museum. It is in my view the most impressive Roman building left on earth. Today people still live in the Old Town – within the walls of this great palace.

There is so much to do and see in the Old Town. At night wander the streets, have a meal or drink in one of its many restaurants, cafes and bars or just soak in the ambiance. Stroll the Riva, the palm tree lined promenade in front of the Palace and watch the sun go down with a cocktail.

There are many tours available in Split . I would highly recommend learning more about the history of this city and Diocletian’s Palace and a tour is a great way of doing this.

If you are a fan of Game of Thrones there are tours which will take you to the areas used in the filming of the series.

These are my recommended tour options

Walking Tour of Split

A great way to learn about Split is to take a walking tour. This tour take approximately 90 minutes and is a perfect way to become acquainted with the city.

Split: Diocletian’s Palace Walking Tour

If you have a particular interest in learning more about Diocletian’s Palace I would recommend this 45 minute tour. It is fascinating to learn all about the history of the buildings as you walk through.

As we had an apartment we were able to save on costs by self-catering. The market is a great place to buy fresh fruit and vegetables and there is also a fish market to purchase some fresh catches brought in by the local fishermen from the Adriatic.

There are also some lovely restaurants in Split and we did try out a few!

Our favourite place for breakfast was Bepa which can be found in in the square at Narodni trg. For dinner I would recommend Chops Grill for great steaks and seafood.

Also buy a freshly made smoothie or ice cream and enjoy an evening stroll along the Riva!

I try to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites during our trips if possible. I had identified 2 sites in Croatia that were within a stone’s throw of Split – Trogir and Šibenik.

Although I booked tours to visit both it is possible to hire a car and drive, take a bus or take the hop-on- hop-off bus which travels between Split and Trogir. I don’t like large tours and I always look for companies which offer small group options. I chose tours with Get Your Guide as I find them affordable and generally well organised.

Trogir is a set within medieval walls on an island linked by bridges to the mainland. It is known for its mix of Renaissance, Baroque and Romanesque buildings.

Šibenik is the home of the 15th-century stone Cathedral of St. James which is decorated with 71 sculpted faces.

I would recommend visiting both Trogir and Šibenik if you have time. You can read more about these beautiful towns in my guide to Sibenik and Trogir.

Tours to the towns from Get Your Guide include:

Hop-on hop-off bus from Split which also includes 2 hour walking tours in Split and Trogir

Half-Day Blue Lagoon & Trogir Tour from Split

Private Sibenik Sightseeing Tour

KrKa National Park is 87 kms north of Split. Famous for its beautiful waterfalls is a popular day trip . We again booked our trip to KrKa with Get Your Guide which you can also book via this link.

If you can’t fit a visit to Plitvice into your travel plans (as we couldn’t) I would definitely head to KrKa. The waterfalls are stunningly beautiful – take your swimming gear as here you can actually swim in the gorgeous clear water!

Read more about visiting KrKa National Park

My husband loves train journeys and so rather than taking a day tour to Plitivce Lakes and onto Zagreb (the capital of Croatia) which is offered by many of the tour companies he wanted to make the journey via train. This was a mistake .

The train line between Split and Zagreb was like a roller coaster. It took 6 hours and although the scenery was lovely the journey was uncomfortable. Luckily we took food and drinks with us as there were nothing available to purchase on the train. This is easily the worst train trip I have ever taken.

I would consider hiring a driver to take you between the 2 cities, catching a bus or taking one of the tours which starts in Split travels to Plitvice Lakes National Park and then onto Zagreb.

The best way to get from Split to Zagreb ( DO NOT take the train!!) in my view is one that includes a trip to Plitvice such as this one from Get Your Guide which we WILL be doing next time!

Split to Zagreb: Private Transfer with Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Croatia’s most popular tourist attraction. I would highly recommend visiting them and they would certainly be on any future itinerary.

We spent a day in Zagreb before catching our onward connection to Slovenia. The Croatian capital is served by many airlines so is an ideal place to end your Croatian holiday.

Alternatively, you could,  like us, continue on into Slovenia.

Or if you want to spend more time in Croatia why not head to Istria instead – this travel guide to Istria will certainly inspire you to visit!

Croatia is a beautiful country to visit and one of your favourites in Europe. My itinerary will have provided lots of inspiration and practical tips for your to make the most of your visit. You can read more about Croatia in these articles;

• Croatia travel tips (How to make the most of your trip)
• Best books about Croatia (or set in Croatia)

A Complete One Week Croatia Road Trip Itinerary

This summer, I just fancied a road trip in Croatia. I had one week or so to spare, and knew that I wanted to spend my week doing a mixture of city exploring in Dubrovnik, spending lazy days on the twinkly Adriatic Sea and of course, sampling delicious local food. Before I knew it, I had planned an epic one week Croatia road trip itinerary, starting in Dubrovnik in the South, to the very North of Croatia. In fact, we then realised that Lake Bled in Slovenia was really close. And then it made sense to continue all the way north into the Julian Alps of Slovenia.

And what an adventure this was. The roads in Croatia are simple and easy to drive. There’s generally minimal traffic and pretty decent driving from your fellow Croatians. Parking is straight forward and there are simply so many brilliant places to stop at. This blog post is focused on a one week Croatia road trip itinerary – I think you’ll be surprised how much you can do and see in this time. We loved what we were able to include, so this is a suggested Croatia itinerary based on our amazing experience. However, I realise you may have longer than one week in Croatia, so I’ve popped some other suggestions lower down in this blog post.

Car or Campervan?

Well, first things first you need a motor for your Croatia road trip! You can either opt for a car from one of the well known hire car companies operating in Croatia, such as Hertz, Budget and Avis.

Or another alternative is to take on a real adventure and rent a camper van for your road trip!

One excellent recommendation is Balkan Campers , a local retro campervan rental company based in Slovenia and Croatia. They have more than 20 funky vans to choose from, of which 13 are legendary old school VW buses (campervan dreams!)

Not only does this help save money on accommodation costs, but it can also serve as your kitchen or BBQ on wheels. A campervan offers complete freedom and flexibility on a road trip through Slovenia and Croatia.

Now my road trip itinerary below is primarily based on a summer adventure, but that’s not to say you couldn’t explore northern Croatia and Slovenia during the winter months too. Balkan Campers have even kitted out several of their vans with portable heating systems, winter tyres, blankets and a drop of local warming liquor.  

One Week Croatia Road Trip Itinerary

So, for the itinerary!

You can of course start a Croatia road trip in either direction. You could start in the north and head south, or start in the south and head north to Pula. It’s likely that flight routes and flight prices will have a pretty strong influence on where you start your Croatia road trip. The least expensive place for us to start our road trip was Dubrovnik, and this is likely due to the number of flight options to the city. Another major airport in Croatia to fly into is Split, however this is right in the middle of the country. So starting in Split means you would have to pick one direction to drive in, rather than driving the length of the country from top to bottom.

So for this reason, my suggested one week Croatia road trip itinerary starts in beautiful Dubrovnik. From here, we followed the stunning coastal route north. We sampled the freshest of oysters in the tiny village of Ston, passed through Bosnia-Herzegovina for literally less than 10 miles and stopped at the coastal towns of Makarska , Split and Šibenik . We even enjoyed a spot of luxury glamping on the private island of Obonjan , which I would highly recommend.

So without further ado, here’s my one week Croatia road trip itinerary. I’ll be writing a mini guide on each town covering where to stay, what to do and where to eat. I’ll also write a complete driving guide for Croatia, including the essential things to know whilst planning a road trip in Croatia.

Day 1: Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik blew me away. Possibly one of the best city breaks in Europe, it’s a destination that has it all. In fact, to be honest, you could easily spend a whole week in Dubrovnik or longer. Not only do you have the Old Walled City of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but the surrounding area is dotted with stunning islands with white sandy beaches. You can even enjoy an array of outdoor activities in the nearby forests or kayaking in the open sea.

Not only is the city steeped in historical sites, it’s also the filming location for many iconic Games of Thrones scenes.

This being said, Dubrovnik receives a lot of tourists and visiting in peak high season (July-August) can mean the crowds are almost unbearable. For that reason, visiting in May, June or late August and September can be a very good idea. From less intense crowds to slightly cooler temperatures and lower accommodation prices, the shoulder months can make for a far more enjoyable trip.

One Day Itinerary for Dubrovnik

I’d recommend spending one day in Dubrovnik exploring the heart of the city. You can really see a lot in one day and tick off most of the best things to do in Dubrovnik. And if you’re visiting the city for the day from a cruise ship, this cruise guide to Dubrovnik here is helpful !

I would start with breakfast al fresco in the main city square (Gundulic Square) at Gradska Kavana Arsenal or just outside the city walls, at Bistro Revelin.

I’d then spend around 4-5 hours walking the medieval Old Town, with plenty of time to get lost in its labyrinth laneways. This is a must-do for any visitor to Dubrovnik. You can also climb and wander within the city walls, which are open to the public and offer incredible panoramic views of the city and the surrounding red roofs. It costs 100 HRK to access the walls and takes around 1-2 hours to fully explore.

Book your tickets for a Dubrovnik walking tour here!

I’d stop for a relaxing drink in one of cliffside ‘ Buza Bars ‘ and watch the local cliff divers. Then, pick up a delicious gelato on the lanes leading to the main square.

If you’ve had enough of the historical sites by then, another brilliant activity to do in Dubrovnik is to go kayaking around the City Walls. These tours depart from Pile Gate , which is also one of the main entrances to the Old City Walls. Book your sea kayaking tour here!

Around 3pm, I recommend heading to this point on Google Maps to start the hike to the top of Mount Srd, one of the most scenic locations in Dubrovnik. You can of course catch the Dubrovnik cable car up but if you’re feeling like doing a steep but quite brief hike, I’d recommend going by foot! The views are astounding over the Old City, and you can stop whenever you want to take photos.

At the top of Mount Srd is an incredible restaurant, called Panorama , and I recommend making a reservation in advance for about 5.30/6pm. This is one of the best restaurants for a sunset view in Dubrovnik, without a doubt. It is completely magical. I’d say prices are not cheap, but it’s no more expensive than dining in the centre of Dubrovnik.

Afterwards, as it will be dark, I would definitely recommend taking the cable car back down. The city views are still phenomenal with the Old Town all lit up. A one way ride on the cable car costs 85 HRK, and a return journey is 120 HRK.

As mentioned, many Game of Thrones scenes were filmed in Dubrovnik. So if you’re a keen fan of the TV series, you can spend a morning or afternoon doing one of the very popular Game of Thrones walking tours. The tours take around 2-3 hours and show you all of the famous locations that were used in the filming of the series.

Book your tickets for a ‘Game of Thrones’ walking tour here!

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Dubrovnik. If you want to stay really close to the Old Town, you will pay for this privilege. But you’ll then save money on the taxis or ubers.

If you want to save some cash and stay a little further out, you may find your hotel has a beach or access to the sea. In the Croatian heat, this can be quite a nice treat. We chose to stay at a small Airbnb about a 10 minute taxi out of town and it was just wonderful. We didn’t mind the taxi as we only had to do it a few times.

Dubrovnik does have some fairly iconic luxury hotels, here are some of the best:

• Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik
• Hotel Excelsior
• Dubrovnik Palace
• Villa Orsula
• Hotel Bellevue

For a more reasonable price, these are some of the best value hotels in Dubrovnik:

• Villa Sigurata
• Prijeko Palace
• Fresh* Sheets Kathredral
• Boutique Hotel Kazbek
• Klarisa Palace

Where to eat and drink in Dubrovnik

One of the best meals during our time in Croatia was actually in Dubrovnik at Panorama Restaurant at the top of Mount Srd. As detailed just above, you can either hike here or take the cable car to the top. This restaurant not only had phenomenal views, but the food was excellent and the atmosphere quite magical.

Another of the best places to eat in Dubrovnik is tucked away in one of the laneways near the main square. Dalmatino Dubrovnik served up incredible local Dalmatian food, as well as Italian dishes with a twist. I highly recommend.

The most romantic restaurant in Dubrovnik is without a doubt, Restaurant 360 , offering Michelin-starred food in an unbelievable location.

Day 2: Day trip from Dubrovnik

Once you’ve spent a full day or two soaking up the magic of Dubrovnik, it’s time to explore the surrounding islands. There are SO many beautiful islands to visit, all within a 1-2 hour ferry from Dubrovnik. All of the islands near the city can be done as a day trip from Dubrovnik, but many could be a holiday destination all on their own.

Some of the islands to consider for a day trip from Dubrovnik include Lokrum, the Elaphite Islands, Mljet, Cavtat and Korčula. You can actually travel to several other countries as a day trip from Dubrovnik, such as Kotor Bay in Montenegro and Sarajevo/Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Spending the day at Mljet Island

We decided to spend the day visiting Mljet. This island is unique in that it is dominated by a National Park. It is covered in thick pine forest and offers wonderful hiking and biking routes.

The island of Mljet is home to two interconnected lakes, Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (“Big Lake” and “Small Lake”) which are dazzling turquoise. Big Lake is even home to an 800-year-old Benedictine monastery called St Mary located on its own tiny island. You can easily head over to here on a quick (free) speedboat, assuming you’ll have lunch at one of the restaurants.

Getting to Mljet from Dubrovnik is easy. From the Dubrovnik port, you need to take a G & V ferry to Polače, a small town within Mljet National Park. Please note this route only operates in the summer months and the trip time is about 1h50.

On the island, you can travel into the National Park by two main options. You can buy shuttle bus tickets on arrival that’ll take you up the steep hill and into the National Park, or you can hire bikes. The bike route is around 10km and is a brilliant way to explore. However, the hills can be quite steep so make sure you’re up for it!

We spent a full day cycling and stopping for swims on Mljet. The island is as stunning as we expected and we didn’t see too many other visitors once we got away from the main entrance.

As lunch time approached, we came across the monastery in the middle of the lake I mentioned above and had a pretty tasty lunch stop here.

If you prefer, you can of course join a guided local tour to Mljet or one of the islands. Here are a few suggestions:

• Korcula Full-Day Trip
• Full Day Elaphite Islands Tour incl. Lunch
• Dubrovnik: Odysseus Cave and 5 Islands Speedboat Tour
• National Park Mljet Island Day Trip from Dubrovnik

Day 3: Ston and Makarska

Assuming you’ve made the best of two days in Dubrovnik, it’s time to get on your way on your Croatia road trip!

We’re big fans of oysters and a little prior research led me to the quaint village of Ston . The tiny village is only an hour out of the city (approx 55km) so can be visited as a day trip from Dubrovnik too. Ston was tiny and absolutely wonderful. Like Dubrovnik, the town is dominated by huge medieval city walls. But without any of the crowds! It is famous for the city walls, for its salt pans and for its world renowned oysters.

Having left Dubrovnik at around 9am, we arrived in Ston a fair bit before lunch so we enjoyed a swim in the crystal clear water. We then took our seats at one of just a handful of restaurants right by the water and tucked into what I can only describe as one of the VERY best meals of my life.

Just look at this:

The staff were so wonderful too. Unsurprisingly and despite our very best efforts, we were unable to finish this platter. So the kind waitress took our hams, cheeses and salad and made us delicious baguettes so we could take them ‘to go’ for the next part of our road trip. Awesome!

I would say you probably only need two or three hours in Ston. Heading north, you will quickly come to the border of Bosnia Herzegovina which has around 20km/12 miles of coastline which lands in the middle of Croatia. Totally fascinating but luckily, no visas are needed at the tiny border control stations you pass through.

We drove north and decided to stop in the holiday town of Makarska, which took about two hours of driving. Along the route, we didn’t stop at too many places but the views were astounding. On one side we had the ocean and the other, we’d see pine forests or occasionally, beautiful deep blue lakes.

Known as the Makarska Riviera, this lesser known area offers beautiful beaches and a huge number of outdoor activities in the nearby Biokovo mountain range. There were few tourists there from the UK, but plenty of local holiday makers. We spent a couple of hours on the main beach which was pretty packed and not overly scenic. It was quite cool to sit alongside all the locals and made for an interesting afternoon!

If I were to stay in the Makarska area for longer, I wouldn’t stay on the central strip area. I would stay outside of it , and maybe only come into the centre in the evening for dinner.

Day 4: Split

Beautiful Split is easily one of the best places to visit in Croatia. Second only to Dubrovnik in terms of visitor numbers, Split is the gateway to some of Croatia’s most beautiful islands and popular holiday locations, including Hvar. It cannot be missed from a one week Croatia road trip itinerary.

The city itself is so vibrant, nestled between the mountains and the sea. The whole central part of Split is centered around the incredible Diocletian’s Palace, which means you can dine in, and wander amongst famous Roman sites. It’s quite magnificent. We only spent two days in Split, one of which we did a day trip on a boat. But it would be very easy to spend three days or even a week in Split. If you can only spare a day, then check out this guide on how to spend one day in Split .

Things to do in Split and the surrounding area

A few hours can be spent wandering the city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage old town. It’s very easy to explore Split on foot.

Split feels particularly lively in the afternoon and evenings, when the city comes alive. The incredible Diocletian’s Palace, which is more than 1,700 years old, is another famous location in Croatia used in the Game of Thrones series. But today, it is packed with small stores, restaurants, cafes and bars. In fact, one of our most memorable nights on our Croatia road trip was spent in a large square, called the Peristyle, in the middle of the Palace. Live music acts performed to a packed crowd, all sitting on the terraced ledges around the performers. Bar staff even came and took our orders to bring us drinks all evening long. It’s wonderful.

Another popular area to wander around is the vibrant seafront promenade in Split, called the Riva. In the early evenings especially, it’s a hive with activity and buzz.

Other things to do in Split include climbing Marjan Hill for panoramic views over Split, as well as tucking into the lively food scene. You can even do Game of Thrones film locations tours here too!

Where to stay in Split

Location is key in Split, and fortunately you can stay pretty close to the town centre for an affordable price. Frank About Croatia has an amazingly detailed post that covers every neighbourhood and a huge number of hotels in Split, which you can read here . The apartment we stayed in is no longer taking bookings, which is a shame. However, do take a browse here for great deals and places to stay in Split .

Boat trips from Split

As mentioned, Split is the gateway to many of the Dalmatian island summer resorts, such as the Pakleni islands, Brač, Vis, Bol and Hvar. Many of these are worthy holiday destinations all on their own, particularly Hvar which is quickly becoming one of the most popular summer holiday places in Europe. It has the biggest party scene in Croatia too!

We chose to spend a day island-hopping. We organised our tour through GetYourGuide and spent a glorious day speeding across the glassy water. The speedboat journey out to the islands was a highlight in itself, we even saw dolphins at sunrise.

A few other highlights included a stop at the famous Blue Lagoon on the island of Bisevo, as well as the islands of Vis and Palmizana, a snorkelling stop at Budikovac and plenty of time in Hvar . We had lunch in Palmizana at Laganini Lounge Bar on the water’s edge, which I highly recommend. It’s a bit of a place ‘to be seen’, but it is really cool and has an awesome atmosphere.

• From Split: Trogir and Blue Lagoon Half Day Tour
• Blue Lagoon: 3 Islands Tour
• Split: 6 Islands Tour and Blue Cave Full-Day Group Tour
• From Split: Brač and Šolta Island Cruise with Swimming

The island of Hvar and its stylish harbour, Stari Grad is definitely becoming the flashy ‘St Tropez of Croatia’. I imagine the cost of food and drink might add up if you’re spending a week here. But for just one day, it was a wonderful port of call for a late afternoon drink!

Krka National Park

Another brilliant day trip from Split is to visit Krka National Park. Home to some of Croatia’s most beautiful waterfalls, a relaxing day can be spent at Krka, swimming under and around the cascading falls. Go early though, it certainly gets busier as the day goes on.

It’s only about an hour from Split, making Krka National Park easily done in one day.

Book your tickets to Krka National Park & Waterfalls here!

Day 5-6: Obonjan Island

You could easily spend several days in Split, but whilst planning our trip, I came across some luxury glamping on a private island called Obonjan. It looked incredible, so I realised we were going to have to leave Split earlier than expected on our Croatia itinerary.

I’ve written a full blog post on luxury glamping at Obonjan , but in summary – imagine an adults-only private island located in the twinkling Adriatic Sea. That’s a pretty good start, right?

Part music festival, part wellness retreat, part pure holiday destination – guests can get as involved as they want or not. We spent three days here lounging around in the sun, taking easy runs around the island and of course, making sure we were free for the daily sunset happy hour. It was a blissful, relaxing few days with a delightful absence of traffic, noise and annoying people!

The ferry to Obonjan island departs from the town of Šibenik which is about 2 hours drive north from Split.

Day 7: Šibenik and onwards

From the Obonjan/ Šibenik area, there are several options north from there. As mentioned earlier, we drove a long 5 hours north to Lake Bled, near to Ljubljana in Slovenia. The weather changed drastically as we gained altitude. I couldn’t believe how different the environment was, having just spent a gorgeous week on the Adriatic Coast.

Although we chose to do this, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend driving from Dubrovnik to Lake Bled. We were really keen to tick Lake Bled off our list, but actually, we could have easily spent more time exploring Croatia. There are still so many beautiful towns north of Split and Šibenik. I’ve put some alternative suggestions here for a one week croatia road trip itinerary:

This small town between Zadar and Šibenik is home to some of Croatia’s most famous festivals, such as Love International (next taking place in July 2020). Tisno has its own epic festival set up in an area called The Garden. This area draws revellers from across the globe who want to attend epic music festivals in a stunning location. If you’re planning a Croatia road trip around a music festival, chances are you’ll be heading to Tisno.

Check rates for places to stay in Tisno here!

Zadar is one of the largest towns on the Dalmatian Coast and is about a 2 hour drive north from Split. Despite often being considered Croatia’s coolest city , it still doesn’t attract the vast crowds that Dubrovnik does, or even Split. There are a great number of things to do in Zadar, not least to explore its iconic monuments and unusual art installations. Playing tribute to the sea and its waves is the world famous Zadar Sea Organ, located on the waterfront promenade. Created by cutting steps into the promenade and then installing underwater pipes, it plays music when the waves roll in. Magical.

Zadar is also the gateway to some of Croatia’s most beautiful beaches and untouched islands. It is also a launch point to five National Parks: Paklenica, Plitvice lakes, the Kornati Islands, Krka and Sjeverni Velebit.

Check rates for places to stay in Zadar here!

This is Croatia’s largest island and is near to Rijeka on the mainland. The island is full of cultural attractions, a reflection of the many groups of people who’ve called Krk home through the centuries. It’s even believed that Krk was home to the very first Croatians.

Check rates for places to stay in Krk Island here!

Far less visited than Dubrovnik, Rijeka is a ‘real’ city with a bustling seaport and stunning neoclassical architecture, seen in the theatre and the palaces. An excellent place to get to know the locals and see them going about their daily lives.

Check rates for places to stay in Rijeka here!

Beautiful Pula is home to some of Croatia’s most brilliantly-kept magnificent Roman buildings. Pula is most famous for its incredible and enormous amphitheatre called the ‘Arena’, built to seat up to 20,000 spectators. In fact, it is the only Roman amphitheatre in the world with a complete circle wall that’s still standing. Pula is also the capital of Istria in the North of Croatia, it’s close to the Italian border (and was once part of Italy in fact!). This means you’ll find some amazing Croatian/Italian food here. When you’re not wandering the stunning Roman streets of Pula, you can sample the wines that Istria is famous for.

Check rates for places to stay in Pula here!

Further north from Pula, but still in Istria is the pretty fishing port of Rovinj. Home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Croatia, this town feels distinctly different to the south of the country. This is partly due to its close proximity to Italy. It’s cosmopolitan and colourful, and just an easy 45 minute drive North of Pula.

Check rates for places to stay in Rovinj here!

Plitviče Lakes National Park

Another final option for a Croatia road trip, is to head slightly inland and go to Plitviče Lakes . This is Croatia’s most-visited tourist attraction. These stunning waterfalls are a bit different to Krka in that you can’t swim in them. Visitors can only explore them via a series of inter-connected walkways. But don’t let that deter you from visiting, because the falls are stunning! Interestingly, they’re good to visit at any time of year too, with winter offering an unparalleled snowy landscape with the cascades peeping through.

I hope this one week Croatia road trip itinerary is useful for planning your Croatia trip or inspires you to visit this beautiful country. Feel free to ask me any questions below if there’s something I haven’t covered here.

If you liked the sound of Croatia, you might also like Santorini in Greece. Don’t forget to check out my guide to visiting Santorini on a budget!

Wanna see more? Check my Instagram  here , my Facebook  here  or my Twitter  here !

Disclaimer: This visit to Croatia was entirely paid for by myself . T here was no involvement from the tourism board or a hotel. This is an independent guide.

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Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income.

One of the best ways to explore the beautiful country of Croatia is by taking a road trip, where you can drive along winding coastal roads, visit charming towns and villages, and discover off-the-beaten-path hidden gems.

Known for its picturesque coastline, stunning national parks, and rich history, Croatia is full of surprises. From the Ventian-inspired architecture of the Istrian Peninsula, and the rivers and lakes of the mountainous interior, to its gorgeous islands, Croatia is well worth exploring.

In this Croatia road trip guide, we’ll share some of our favorite road trip routes and destinations in Croatia, along with tips for planning your perfect Croatia road trip. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most captivating countries!

Where is Croatia?

Croatia is situated in Central and Southeast Europe, on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. Hungary is to the northeast, Serbia to the east, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro to the southeast, and Slovenia to the northwest.

The crescent-shaped country features low mountains and highlands near the Adriatic coastline, flat plains that hug the Hungarian border, and a multitude of islands. The Croatian archipelago has 1,244 natural formations, of which 78 are islands, 524 are islets, and 642 are cliffs and reefs.

Croatia joined the Schengen area on 1 January 2023, and at the same time swapped the official currency from the Croatian kuna to the euro.

You may notice the letters HR being used in website domains and on car number plates. This is because HR stands for Hrvatska , the country’s name in Croatian.

Getting to Croatia

Whether you’re traveling in Croatia by car, motorcycle, or campervan from Europe, or picking up a hire car, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this fantastic Balkans country.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Zagreb, Dubrovnik or Split airports . With direct flights from North America, Europe , and the UK , we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Croatia? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning your Croatia driving tour.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan to road trip through Croatia. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Best Time for Visiting Croatia

Croatia’s climate is continental and gets more Mediterranean towards the Adriatic and equator. The sea has a big influence on the coast’s weather and in the north, the Pannonian Plains are responsible for the weather patterns. The central Dinara mountains are always cooler than the coast and it rains less as you go east due to the low-lying Danube valleys.

The weather generally improves as spring moves into April, however, the notorious Bura winds also blow along the coastline through spring, making it an unpredictable time weather-wise.

May is a much better time to plan a Croatian road trip when the sea becomes warm enough for swimming and there are many more warm and sunny days than not, and the wind risk reduces.

A Croatia summer trip promises heat, warm water, and sea breezes. In August coastal temperatures can be in the high 30s, making it uncomfortably hot without air conditioning.

Summer is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit, and cities like Dubrovnik and Split can feel very crowded as cruise ships pull in and disgorge their passengers for the day.

Autumn is generally warm, with September being our favorite time to road trip Croatia, although temperatures stay in the low 20s well into October. Everywhere is quieter, hotels actually have free rooms and flights, and accommodation and tours are much less expensive than in the summer season.

RELATED POST: Autumn in Europe: 23 Stunning Destinations for Fall

Winters in Croatia are seriously wet, but coastal areas can be warm and the sea water in winter is slightly warmer than the air. Although it will be quiet, this would be our least favorite time to roadtrip in Croatia!

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Croatia . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Croatia Road Trip Map

These five routes through Croatia can be as flexible as you need them to be. Take a long weekend and road trip the Istrian Peninsula, or go island hopping on the Dalmatian coast.

If you have longer, string a few of the road trips together for a one or two week Croatia road trip itinerary, or connect Krka to Split to create a Zagreb to Dubrovnik road trip.

• Get the Essentials
• Reusable Water Bottle: We love our LifeStraw Go 2 personal water filter bottles, knowing we can top up anywhere and anytime.
• Snorkel & Mask: Make sure to take this Kuyou snorkel set – watching the sea life around the islands is a must-do!
• Water Shoes: You really need water shoes in Croatia, and we love the Teva Hurricane for their style and functionality.
• Microfibre Towels: These Dock and Bay beach towels are perfect for all the wild swimming you’re going to want to do!
• Flask: If you watch us on YouTube , you’ll know we love a cup of tea, especially mid-way through a hike or day trip! We’ve used our Lifeventure vacuum flask for years
• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Croatia
• The Rough Guide to Croatia
• DK Eyewitness Croatia

Best Road Trips in Croatia

Zagreb to krka national park road trip.

This 5-7 day Croatia road trip starts in the capital fiesty capital of Zagreb and covers the northwestern part of Croatia, as well as two famous national parks.

Zagreb – Samobor – Rastoke – Plitviče Lakes National Park – Krka National Park

• Distance: 346km | 215 miles
• Drive Time: 5 hours
• Length: 5-7 day itinerary

Zagreb , the capital of Croatia, is a vibrant and charming city with a mix of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. 

The city’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, and it has been influenced by various cultures and empires throughout the centuries. Today, Zagreb is a cosmopolitan city that blends its traditional charm with modernity and innovation.

One of the most notable aspects of Zagreb is its architecture. The city boasts a diverse range of building styles, with 18th and 19th century Austro-Hungarian architecture taking prominence. Some of the must-see buildings in Zagreb include the Croatian National Theatre, the 13th century Church of St. Marks, Lotrščak Tower, the Gothic Zagreb Cathedral, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

We loved exploring the city’s historic districts of Gradec or Gornji grad and Kaptol, which are filled with charming narrow streets, colorful buildings, and picturesque squares, or head north for a spot of tombstone tourism and explore the wonderful tree-lined Mirogoj Cemetary at the foot of Medvednica.

Zagreb is also known for its vibrant culture, which is reflected in its museums, galleries, theaters, and festivals. Some of the top cultural attractions in the city include the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Zagreb City Museum , the Museum of Illusions, and the Zagreb Film Festival.

For sustenance, head to Dolac Market and try traditional Croatian dishes like Ćevapi , grilled kofta-style meat, Pašticada , beef in a sweet and sour sauce, and Kremšnita , a sweet custard cake, or grab a local beer or glass of Croatian wine at one the city’s many bars.

RELATED POST: Best Cities in Croatia for an Amazing Visit!

Samobor is a historic town to the west of Zagreb’s city center and makes a nice change from the always busy capital.

Samobar has a long and fascinating history that dates back to the Roman Empire and visitors can explore ruins of ancient settlements. A slightly newer ruin is Samobar Castle, although it’s still well over 750 years old!

A stone fortress, Samobar Castle was originally built for the Czech king Ottokar II of Bohemia in the 13th century before Croatian-Hungarian forces retook the castle for their own. If you’re interested in Croatian history, Samobor Museum is set in a beautiful location and well worth a visit, and the Samobor Open Air Museum has traditional Croatian houses and buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries. 

To the east is the Žumberačko-Samoborsko Gorge Nature Park, where there are plenty of easy scenic hikes, which are all accessible from Samobor. If you don’t have much time, the hike from Smerovišće to the Cerinski waterfall will only take a couple of hours.

Wine lovers will enjoy the abundance of wine cellars in the town, which is close to the Plešivica Hills, a large wine-producing area, where Portugizac, a young and fruity red, is the signature variety.

Rastoke is a small village south of Samobor, famous for its picturesque waterfalls and traditional wooden houses and watermills. This watery paradise sits on the rivers Korana and Sluncica, crystal clear rivers that flow south to create Plitviče Lakes, and is perfect for a spot of wild swimming or kayaking.

In the village of Rastoke itself, you can admire the Rastoke Waterfalls, which are a collection of small waterfalls over a large surface of water, explore the traditional wooden houses, which have both Croatian and Ottoman influences, and visit Stari Mlin or Old Mill to learn about the traditional milling process.

Top Tip: Make sure to visit Restoran Petro , a traditional Croatian restaurant situated over the water where you can enjoy delicious grilled trout from the river.

Plitviče Lakes National Park

Plitviče Lakes National Park is Croatia’s most beautiful natural attraction, where a series of sixteen interconnected lakes drop over an altitude of 636 to 503 meters (2,087 to 1,650 ft) and create many waterfalls.

The pristine lake system is surrounded by lush forests and a boardwalk weaves between the lakes and waterfalls to create paths from the upper to lower lakes, or vice versa , depending on your start point.

There are 8 different routes, which can take from two to eight hours to complete, and you can go from the upper lakes down, or the lower lakes up, but all routes have a similar amount of elevation gain. On each route you will also take a boat trip at some point, to transport you over Kozjak, the largest lake.

Plitviče National Park gets very, very busy in the summer months and the sheer number of people can mar the experience a little. If you do visit in summer, we recommend buying your tickets online in advance and starting from car park 2 at 7am when the park opens.

Top Tip: We chose route H, which involves getting a bus to the start point (many of the routes use buses due to the topography of the park), and managed to get off the bus first. We upped the pace for the first 10 minutes and then enjoyed 90 minutes of absolute peace and tranquility before we met the hordes coming the other way from Car Park 1!

RELATED POST: Most Beautiful Places in Croatia: 17 Scenic Places to Visit

Krka National Park

Krka National Park rivals Plitviče Lakes for its waterfalls, but luckily you don’t have to make a choice, as Krka is the next stop in this itinerary!

The Krka National Park is centered around the jade-green Krka River and offers more than just waterfalls to explore, with bike trails, five medieval fortresses, and the small island of Visovac, which was settled in 1445 by Franciscan monks and features a monastery with a library and preserved artifacts.

The Krka waterfalls are formed in a series of terraces, as the Krka and Čikola Rivers cascade over seventeen travertine steps into deep pools before flowing into the next set, creating Skradinski Buk that stands tall at 45 meters (148ft) high and helped power the world’s second oldest hydro-electric plant.

You can take a boat trip to see the Roski Slap waterfall, which is made up of twelve separate falls flowing over 450 meters (1,476ft), including one that’s an impressive 60 meters (197ft) wide and 22 meters (72ft) high.

Top Tip: There are ten different entrances to the park, with the Skradin entrance the best if you want to take the boat ride through the canyon to Skradinski Buk. Note that although it was possible to swim here, in 2021 a ban on swimming was introduced to protect the national park.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Split to Dubrovnik Road Trip

This 7-10 day Dalmatian Coast road trip from Split heads south along the coast, exploring several of the beautiful islands that Croatia is famous for before ending in iconic Dubrovnik.

Split – Brac – Hvar – Korčula – Dubrovnik

• Distance: 486km | 302 miles
• Drive Time: 14 hours
• Length: 7-10 day itinerary

Split  is a vibrant coastal city in Croatia founded by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century BCE, and his palace still stands as the heart of the city. The Palace of Diocletian is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world.

Explore the palace, its peristyle and underground cellars, and the bell tower of St Dominus Cathedral for a stunning view of the city before hitting the old town. A maze of narrow streets, courtyards, and ancient buildings, it’s the perfect place for wandering and soaking up the history to your heart’s content.

The city’s modern architecture is also worth exploring, with new buildings like the Croatian National Theatre and the St. Francis Church adding to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

After all that culture, the beach might be calling! Split is known for its beautiful beaches, which are among the most popular attractions in the city. One of our favorites is Bačvice Beach, a sandy beach located just a short walk from the city center, closely followed by Žnjan Beach, a long pebble beach with plenty of facilities, and Kasjuni Beach, a secluded beach located at the foot of Marjan Hill.

Top Tip: If you can’t find accommodation in Split or you’re on a budget, look for somewhere to stay in nearby Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. There is a regular ferry from Trogir which takes 30 minutes to arrive in Split – the journey is all part of the adventure!

A picturesque island near Split, Brac is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. To get there, hop on the Split to Supetar ferry, which takes around 50 minutes.

Brac is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with plenty of things to do and see. Hiking is a popular activity with the trails to the top of Vidova Gora, the highest peak on the island, and UNESCO Blaca Monastery, which can only be reached by hiking through a narrow canyon, being amongst the best.

Brac is known for its beaches, with Zlatni Rat near Bol, being one of the most famous. The beach is a great place to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding. Other popular beaches on the island include Lovrečina Bay, which is a secluded sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, and Supetar Beach, which is a sandy beach located near the town of the same name.

Once you’re beached out, head to one of the most famous sites on the island, the Dominican Monastery in Bol, which features stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Other popular attractions include the Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary, which features beautiful Baroque architecture, and the Olive Oil Museum in Skrip, which offers a unique look into Brac’s olive oil industry.

There is no car ferry from Brac to Hvar , so head back to the mainland on the Sumartin to Makarska boat and then cross to Hvar on the Drevenik to Sućuraj ferry.

One of Croatia’s best-loved islands, Hvar is the longest and sunniest island in Croatia and is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world.

Part of the central Dalmatian archipelago, the island’s bustling hub and most popular destination is Hvar town surrounded by 13th century walls and beautifully ornamented Gothic palaces. With stunning architecture, natural beauty, and mild climate it’s the perfect place to stop for a few days of rest and relaxation on your road trip.

Hvar town also loves a party and many come here for the town’s reputation as Croatia’s premier party destination, but if that’s not for you, or you want to escape the town for a day, head out to discover the fragrant flower-filled island.

Make time to visit white-washed towns and historic cobbled streets of Stari Grad, Vrboska, and Jelsa, swim from the numerous beaches, explore the Pakleni Islands by boat, and take a Blue Cave tour.

There is no car ferry between Hvar and Korčula so you need to get the ferry back to the mainland and drive south along the coast to Ploče. From here, either catch the 60 minute crossing to Trpanj or take our preferred route over the newly built Pelješac Bridge.

Pelješac Most was built to enable people to drive from the northern to the southern part of Croatia without having to cross the thin strip of coastal land that belongs to Bosnia and Herzegovina. From the bridge, make for Orebić on the Pelješac peninsula and catch the car ferry to Korčula town on the island of Korčula , also known as the Emerald Isle.

The gorgeous Dalmatia town of Korčula, with its labyrinth of cobbled streets, incredible restaurants, wine bars, and eclectic stores is famous for being the birthplace of the renowned explorer Marco Polo and is affectionately nicknamed ‘Little Dubrovnik’ due to its similar architecture and Old Town structure.

Korčula island tends to be quieter and more couples-oriented than Hvar and nearby Vis, and is known as a wine island with unique varietals – perhaps that’s why we loved it so much!

Renting a bike and cycling around the island between wineries is a popular activity, as is hiring a boat to explore the islands of Mljet and Lastovo. You should also make time to see a performance of the Moreška, a traditional Croatian sword dance that tells the folk tale of two kings fighting for the love of a kidnapped princess.

The jewel of the Adriatic coast of Croatia, known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik is known for its medieval architecture, crystal-clear waters, and its history, which dates back to the 7th century.

One of the top things to do in Dubrovnik is to walk around the 13th century city walls, which offer fantastic views of the old town’s terracotta rooftops and the sea. The complete 2km (1.2 miles) circuit is a must-do that will take you back in time to the city’s medieval past.

From here, it’s easy to dive into the maze that is Dubrovnik’s UNESCO old town, featuring beautiful squares and historical landmarks such as the Rector’s Palace, the Franciscan Monastery, the Church of St. Blaise, Baroque-style Dubrovnik Cathedral , and the Large Onofrio Fountain built in 1438 as part of a water-supply system that involved bringing water from a nearby spring.

Just outside of the old town you can take the scenic cable car ride to Mount Srd and visit the War Museum and the Imperial Fort. Game of Thrones fans will also want to visit the nineteen filming locations in the city, which doubled as King’s Landing in the show.

Plan to spend a few days in Dubrovnik and once you’ve explored the city, head for Lapad and explore the beaches or discover the breathtaking Elafiti Islands, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.

Top Tip: The old town of Dubrovnik is car-free. We recommend staying outside and taking public transport or walking into the old town. Make sure to book accommodation with free parking, as it’s super-expensive in the city.

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Rijeka to zadar road trip.

This road trip in Croatia explores the Hapsberg-era port city of Rijeka and the islands of the north Dalmatian archipelago before ending in the gorgeous city of Zadar.

Rijeka – Krk – Rab – Pag – Zadar

• Distance: 222km | 138 miles
• Drive Time: 7 hours
• Length: One week itinerary

Rijeka is the third-largest city in Croatia, located on the northern coast of the Adriatic Sea. A bustling port city, Rijeka is known for its rich cultural heritage and lively atmosphere, as well as being the gateway to Croatia’s Kvarner Bay islands.

Culture vultures will enjoy the contemporary art museums, historic palaces, and historic Trsat Castle perched on a hill above the city. Rijeka’s busy promenade of Korzo and the lively central market provide retail therapy and the chance to try local foods, and if you happen to be visiting between late January and early February, the city’s annual carnival is considered to be one of the liveliest in Croatia.

Rijeka is also a perfect destination for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sailing, and if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can try windsurfing, jet skiing, and parasailing.

Head south and cross the Krk Bridge onto the island of Krk , the largest island in the Adriatic and a historic center of Croatian culture.

A treasure trove of attractions and experiences, Krk offers something for everyone, be it culture, nature, or lively tourist hotspots. This diverse island boasts a wealth of options, from ancient towns like Omisalj, Vrbnik, and Krk town, to charming rural villages like Brzac, secluded swimming bays, olive groves, and your choice of restaurants, bars, and cafés.

Krk town is famous for the 12th century St. Mary’s Cathedral, the  Frankopan Castle  that was finished in the 14th century and guards the town against attacks from the sea, and the unique 11th century Church of St Quirinus and is probably the best place to stay for a few days – unless you want a sandy beach. If you do, head for Baška, which is famous for its sandy  Vela plaža beach.

From Krk, it’s a 90 minute crossing to Rab on the Valbiska to Lopar ferry, which sails four times a day in the high season and twice a day in the low season.

Rab is one of Croatia’s greenest islands, covered in fragrant pine forests, the smell of which reminds me of childhood summer holidays in the south of France .

The main resort on the island, Rab town, is where most of the island’s sights are located. You’ll find medieval buildings dating back to the 13th century, the 11th century Romanesque Rab Cathedral, old town walls that are still visible in some places, several Medieval churches, and the town loggia (a type of portico) that was built in 1509.

Elsewhere, Rab is home to some fabulous beaches, including a group of sandy beaches around the town of Lopar, including Paradise Beach, popular for its shallow waters and soft sand. If you fancy a spot of nude sunbathing, check out Sahara Beach, the best-known naturist beach on the island.

If you’re ready for a bit of activity, hire a bike or go hiking in Kalifront Forest, Kamenjak Hill, and the Dundo Forest, or rent a boat and explore Goli Otok Island , a nearby island once used as a political prison during the communist era. 

There is no car ferry from Rab to Pag, so you need to head back to the mainland, drive south and catch the ferry from Prizna to Zigljen or take the E65 to Posedarje (which will take around 90 minutes) and then pick up the 106 over Paški Bridge to Pag island.

Pag is a captivating island with unique geographical features shaped by the Bura winds, a vibrant community, and a rich cultural heritage including the famous Pag cheese, or paski sir , made from sheep’s milk, and UNESCO-listed Pag lace.

The main resorts on Pag are Novalja in the north, one of Croatia’s premier party destinations, and Pag town, in the center of the long and skinny island. Unless you’re a real party animal and relish the noise and all-nighters of the open-air clubs, we suggest heading for Pag town.

Other things to see and do on Pag include visiting the fascinating Salt Museum , wandering in the old town of Pag, hitting the beaches of Zrće, Simuni, or Mandre, exploring the Pag Triangle, a curious land formation, and visiting some of the world’s oldest olive trees at the Lun Olive Grove , which you can explore by bike.

Zadar is a beautiful coastal city known for its maritime history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking sunsets, best seen from the extraordinary Sea Organ whose subterranean pipes give song to the tide.

Zadar is also home to an old town crisscrossed with Roman streets, the ancient Roman Forum, St. Anastasia’s Cathedral, and St. Donatus Church, an early-Byzantine church that was built in the year 800 and remains in a near-perfect state of preservation. Over time, St. Donatus’ tall, rounded outline has become a symbol and a source of pride for Zadar.

Another must-see attraction is the Museum of Ancient Glass, which houses one of the largest collections of ancient glassware in the world. You can see glass artifacts from the Roman and Medieval periods, as well as contemporary glass art. We highly recommend taking one of the workshops where you can learn the art of glassblowing.

Make sure to try the seafood here – think octopus steeped in garlic and wine and bluefin tuna, sustainably farmed around Ugljan Island. Both work superbly well with the zesty and full-bodied Pošip wine made in Korčula. Finish with Maraschino, the local cherry liqueur served on ice, a popular tipple in the bars of Zadar’s old town.

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect road trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Pula and Istria Road Trip

This northern Croatia road trip explores the Ventitian-inspired Istrian Peninsula, which is actually shared between Croatia, Italy, and Slovenia.

Pula – Rovinj – Poreč – Nature Park Učka

• Distance: 139km | 86 miles
• Drive Time: 3 hours
• Length: 3-4 day itinerary

Pula is the largest city of Croatia’s Istria County, located at the southern tip of the peninsula. Conquered by the Romans in 177 BCE, Pula’s architecture is mainly Roman-inspired, and many travelers visit to see the famous Roman amphitheater, the Pula Arena, and the 1st century CE Temple of Augustus .

Another popular attraction is the Brijuni Islands, a group of fourteen islands off Pula’s coast that form the Brijuni National Park. You take a boat ride from Pula and rent a bike on the islands to explore undiscovered beaches and Byzantine settlements and hunt for dinosaur footprints.

Head to Pula Market Hall for our favorite, burek , a flaky pastry with savory fillings like meat or cheese, and all things truffle. The forests of Istria have three types of black truffles and one of the world’s most prized white truffles, making Pula the ideal place to buy truffle-based Croatian souvenirs!

Located on the west coast of Istria, Rovinj is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Croatia with an old town that is situated on an island only connected to the mainland in the 18th century.

Rovinj is renowned for its picturesque setting and romantic atmosphere. The town’s cobbled narrow streets provide a glimpse into the past, and the traditional spacio taverns offer a fish-focussed gastronomy scene. We loved Revera for its waterside location, fantastic cocktails, and delish Croatian tapas.

The area around the Church of St. Euphemia is a favorite gathering place for artists from all over the world, as well as being an epic sunset spot! Art galleries and studios line the streets, and in August every year, the largest open-air exhibition on the Adriatic coast takes place on Grisia, one of the main streets of the old town.

Top Tip: If it’s a hot day, wear your swimmers and take a towel. There’s a perfectly protected swimming spot, Plaža Balota, on the west of the old town island.

Poreč is a charming seaside town and popular thanks to its beautiful beaches and cultural treasures. One of the most popular things to do in Poreč is to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Euphrasian Basilica . This stunning 6th century church is home to some of the most impressive mosaics in the world and is a good starting point from which to explore the maze of cobbled streets and pretty squares that make up the old town.

Another must-visit attraction in Poreč is the Baredine Cave. An underground cave system, Baredine is home to a variety of stalactites and stalagmites, as well as an underground lake, and a guided tour to learn about its geological history makes a great option for a really hot day!

Foodies will also love Poreč , which is home to a wide range of restaurants serving up delicious Croatian cuisine and authentic pizza.

Top Tip: There are also a couple of great gelato places, with Il Gelato di Salvatore being our favorite – make sure to try the citrus carrot flavor.

Nature Park Učka

The Učka Nature Park is a sprawling protected area with hiking routes leading to canyons, waterfalls & historic sites, on the hilly Ćićarija plateau. The beauty of the mountains of Učka and Ćićarija are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, and a great antidote to the hustle and bustle of the coast.

There is a host of educational, hiking, and biking trails enabling access to the highest peak of Vojak at 1,396m (4,580ft) above sea level and the stunning Poklon Pass, as well as opportunities for climbing the limestone towers and rocks on the 67 climbing routes in the park.

Head for the Poklon Visitor Centre where you can pick up maps with trail routes and information about the park.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Croatia.

Osijek to Ilok Road Trip

This 4-5 day Croatia itinerary takes you to a part of the country that is less traveled, but no less beautiful than the popular coast.

Osijek – Kopački Rit – Vinkovci – Ilok

• Distance: 137km | 85 miles
• Length: 4-5 day itinerary

Osijek is Croatia’s fourth-largest city and the most extensive in the eastern part of the country. Located in the historic region of Slavonia, Osijek is known for its culture, beautiful architecture, and friendly locals.

One of the most popular attractions in Osijek is the Tvrđa Osijek, a well-preserved 18th century fortress that is now home to a variety of museums, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can explore the fortress walls, admire the Baroque-style buildings, and learn about the city’s history at the Museum of Slavonia .

Another popular attraction in Osijek is the Cathedral of St. Peter and Paul, a stunning 19th century Baroque church that is considered one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in Croatia with intricate stained glass windows, ornate altars, and beautiful frescoes that adorn the interior of the church. The nearby pedestrian bridge that spans the Drava River, known as the Suleiman the Magnificent Bridge, is a popular spot for selfies.

For those looking for outdoor activities, Osijek has plenty to offer. The Copacabana complex is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing during the summer months, while the parks along the Drava offer opportunities for hiking, cycling, and picnicking. Visitors can also take a stroll down Osijek’s European Avenue and wander Ante Starčević Square, colorful and lively places full of cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Kopački Rit

Kopački Rit is a stunning nature park situated at the border with Serbia. The park is home to over 2,300 species, many of which are endangered, and is known for its many backwaters and ponds along the Danube making it a popular destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.

One of the main attractions at Kopački Rit is the chance to see the park’s incredible birdlife. During the winter months, the park is home to over 20,000 water birds of 267 different species.

Visitors can take guided tours of the park to learn more about the birds and their habitats or explore on their own along the many hiking trails. Other popular activities at the park include cycling, fishing, and boating.

In addition to its natural beauty, Kopački Rit also offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. The park is home to several traditional villages, where visitors can learn about local customs and traditions and you can also rent a boat to explore further or try your hand at fishing for carp and pike.

Vinkovci is a charming town and one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Europe, dating back to the 5th century BCE, and the Roman thermal bath is still preserved along with several other Roman buildings near the center of today’s Vinkovci.

Although not a touristy town, you should make time to explore the well-preserved old town to see the 18th century Baroque Church of St. Eusebius and the 19th century Town Hall before climbing to the top of the water tower, an iconic landmark of the town. A visit to the Vinkovci Municipal Museum will help you learn about the town and region’s history.

In nearby Vukovar is the Church of St. Philip and St. James, a beautiful Baroque-style church that is over 300 years old on the bank of the mighty Danube River. The church, built by Franciscan monks was badly damaged in the  Croatian War of Independence when Serbian forces occupied the town.

Foodies will also love Vinkovci, as the town is known for its delicious cuisine. Local specialties include Kulen , a spicy sausage made from pork, and Čobanac , a hearty stew made with various meats and vegetables.

Ilok is Croatia’s easternmost town, near the border with Serbia. The picturesque town sits on a hill called Fruška Gora above the Danube and has impressive wine cellars and a rich cultural heritage.

Ilok is home to several historic sites, including the Medieval Ilok Castle, which dates back to the 14th century. Visitors can explore the fortress and learn about the town’s past, including its time under Ottoman rule. Additionally, the Sanctuary, Church, and Friary of St. John of Capistrano is a beautiful religious site that is worth a visit.

For wine lovers, Ilok is a must-visit destination. The town is home to some of the best wineries in Croatia, and visitors can sample local wines like Graševina and Chardonnay and learn about the winemaking process.

Top Tip: One of our highlights was a visit to Principovac Country Estate , a beautiful park that is home to an excellent restaurant and winery in the restored castle of the princely family Odescalchi, with stunning views of the Danube River and the surrounding countryside.

Croatia Road Trip Essentials

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Croatia.

• Search for affordable flights to Croatia with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Croatia with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Croatia with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Croatia with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Traveling & Driving in Croatia

If you are a confident driver, you shouldn’t find it too difficult to drive in Croatia. However, you should be aware that Croatian drivers can be quite erratic, overtaking on bends and speeding at every opportunity, and this can be a little disconcerting on the mountain roads!

Whether you’re traveling in your own car, touring Croatia in a motorhome, or flying in and picking up a rental car, you need to follow these rules on your Croatia roadtrip.

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport at your intended departure date from Croatia.
• Croatia joined the Schengen zone on 1st January 2023, so counts towards your 90 days if you are a non-EU citizen,
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .

Rules of the Road

• Croatia drives on the right and overtakes and passes on the left.
• You must carry a reflective jacket, warning triangle, and first aid kit by law. We also recommend that you carry at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of your vehicle and a fire extinguisher.
• Drivers must not use mobile phones without a special hands-free system, but you can use a smartphone in a fixed position to navigate with Google Maps for example.
• You can’t drive with two headphones in your ears.
• The taking and use of radar detection equipment is prohibited. As far as is known, the use of equipment with signaling for fixed speed cameras or route checks (such as navigation equipment and telephones) is permitted.
• It is illegal to drive without headlights on during winter (late October-April) and all cars must have snow chains and a shovel onboard in snow 2 inches thick or more, or in black ice conditions.
• Like many other European countries, Croatia has motorways and other highways with tolls. You can pay for them at toll booths with cash or a credit card.
• There are currently no low emission zones in Croatia.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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Dubrovnik & Zagreb in 2 Days: A Cultural Journey Through Croatia's Gems

April 20, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a 2-day cultural journey through Croatia's stunning cities, Dubrovnik and Zagreb. Begin your adventure in Zagreb, where you'll spend the first day immersing yourself in the city's rich history and artistic spirit. Start at Ban Jelacic Square, the central hub of Zagreb's social life, where you'll spend an hour soaking in the lively atmosphere. A short walk leads you to the Stone Gate, a historic site that offers a glimpse into Zagreb's past during a 30-minute visit. Next, delve into the unique and poignant world of the Museum of Broken Relationships, dedicating two hours to explore its evocative exhibits. Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Lotrscak Tower, where you'll spend an hour admiring panoramic views of the city. Conclude your first day at the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb, a beacon of Croatian culture, enjoying an hour of its grandeur and performances. On day two, head to the majestic city of Dubrovnik, starting with the iconic Dubrovnik City Walls. Spend an hour walking along the ancient fortifications, enjoying breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea. Dedicate the rest of your day to wandering through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with history, stunning architecture, and charming streets that will captivate you for the entire day. This 2-day itinerary is designed to give you a taste of Croatia's historical splendor and cultural vibrancy, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

• Day 1: Discovering the Heart and Art of Zagreb

Ban Jelacic Square

Begin your Zagreb adventure at the iconic Ban Jelacic Square, the central hub of the city's vibrant life. As the first stop on your itinerary, this bustling square offers a perfect introduction to the local culture and history. Spend an hour soaking in the atmosphere, where historical buildings frame the view and locals go about their daily routines. It's a living snapshot of Zagreb's pulse, inviting you to join in the city's rhythm.

Attraction Info

• Trg bana Josipa Jelačića, 10000, Zagreb Croatia
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

A short stroll from the city's central square leads you to the historic Stone Gate, one of the more serene landmarks in Zagreb. As the second destination of the day, this medieval stone passage holds a special place in the hearts of locals, doubling as a shrine where people come to light candles and offer prayers. The half-hour visit here provides a peaceful interlude, contrasting the lively pace of the square and setting the tone for the day's exploration of Zagreb's rich heritage.

• Kamenita ul., 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 hour
• Open 24 hours

Museum of Broken Relationships

Next, delve into the unique and poignant world of the Museum of Broken Relationships. Set aside a couple of hours to wander through this art gallery that transcends traditional museum experiences. Each exhibit tells a story of love and loss, contributed by people from around the globe. The museum's innovative concept and relatable narratives make it a must-visit, offering a profound insight into the universality of human emotions.

• Ćirilometodska ul. 2, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open from 9:00am-9:00pm

Lotrscak Tower

Continuing the journey through Zagreb's historical tapestry, Lotrscak Tower awaits as your fourth stop. Spend an hour climbing this ancient watchtower to be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. The tower's cannon, which fires daily, is a tradition dating back centuries and is a testament to Zagreb's storied past. It's an ideal spot for those looking to capture the essence of the city from above.

• Tomićeva 9, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
• Open on Tue-Fri,9:00am-7:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,11:00am-7:00pm

Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb

Conclude your day with a touch of elegance at the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. This architectural masterpiece is not only a venue for world-class performances but also a symbol of national pride. During your one-hour visit, admire the theatre's ornate facade and, if time permits, catch a glimpse of a performance to experience the cultural heartbeat of Croatia. It's the perfect finale to a day steeped in the arts and history of this captivating city.

• Trg Republike Hrvatske 15, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour

Where to Stay Tonight

Design and modern studio near national theater, modern studio apt near croatian national theater.

• Day 2: Historic Marvels and Heritage Wonders of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik City Walls

As the sun rises on the second day of our adventure, we begin with a stroll along the iconic Dubrovnik City Walls. These ancient fortifications offer a one-hour journey back in time, wrapping around the old city with a protective embrace. Standing atop these walls, you're treated to panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the terracotta rooftops that make Dubrovnik so picturesque. The walls, a historic site that has withstood the test of time, tell tales of past sieges and prosperity. As you meander through the well-preserved ramparts and fortresses, each step reveals a new vista or hidden nook of this UNESCO-protected marvel.

• Placa Ulica 32, Dubrovnik 20000, Croatia
• Open from 8:00am-6:30pm

Following the historic contours of the City Walls, we seamlessly transition into the heart of Dubrovnik's Old Town. This World Heritage site is a treasure trove of cultural wonders, where every cobblestone whispers stories of antiquity. Spend your day exploring the labyrinthine streets, where each turn leads to charming squares, baroque buildings, and echoes of the past. The Old Town is not just a place—it's an immersive experience that captivates the senses for an entire day. From the Rector's Palace to the Sponza Palace, and the bustling Stradun to the serene cloisters, Dubrovnik's Old Town is a living museum waiting to be discovered.

• 20000, Dubrovnik, Croatia
• Suggested tour duration: 1 day

Apartment Toni

Blasius residence.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Croatia Road Trip: Driving the Coast from Istria to Dubrovnik

Written by Meagan Drillinger Jul 10, 2023

I always knew that Croatia was a gorgeous country; the colorful spreads in splashy travel magazines had told me that for years. But nothing can fully prepare you for the drama of Croatia's coastline. There is something about it — careening down coastal highways, hugging the mountainous switchbacks, and gazing out to the splinters of mist-covered islands that dot a perfectly glassy, turquoise-colored sea — that you really must experience in person. If you're going to visit Croatia , a road trip is the way to do it.

Driving in Croatia

Where to begin a road trip in croatia, croatia road trip: istria to split, driving from split to dubrovnik.

Before beginning a road trip, it's good to know the basics about driving in Croatia. Renting a car is extremely easy. We rented a car from the Franjo Tuđman Airport Zagreb for a full month, which cost about $700 USD. Our credit card has car rental insurance included as a travel perk, which saves us some money whenever we rent cars on our travels.

The road system in Croatia is really well-maintained, with choices of tolled highways and toll-free local roads. A coastal road trip will have you driving on mostly toll-free roads . While it takes longer, you are rewarded with some of the best views in the country. Driving in Croatia is on the right-hand side of the road, as well.

After spending a few days adjusting to the time zone in Zagreb , I made my way west to Istria. Istria is a peninsula in the northwestern corner of Croatia, bordering Slovenia and Italy and jutting out into the Adriatic Sea. It's a region marked by rolling green hills, slate-colored mountains, rocky coves, and calm, blue-green bays with white pebble beaches. It's also peppered with both coastal and hilltop Medieval villages waiting to be explored.

The best places to visit in Istria are Rovinj, Pula, and Porec, which are all on the coast. These Medieval towns have stunning Old Towns with centuries-old architecture, white-stone streets, and narrow alleyways. But these towns are also surrounded by some of the best beaches in Croatia . I spent a week driving around Istria popping in and out of the villages, basking on its stony beaches, and crisscrossing the narrow county roads that weave around the countryside.

Tip: A great place to stay overnight is the town of Rijeka . One of Croatia's largest cities, Rijeka is right at the entrance to Istria, just before the elegant seaside city of Opatija. Rijeka itself is a busy port city with a historic Old Town and a Medieval castle, but it's also conveniently located from Zagreb and equidistant from most places of interest in Istria. Lodging is cheaper in Rijeka than in Istria, so we stayed there for a week while we explored. When you continue on your road trip, Rijeka is perfectly positioned to continue south.

The stretch of coast between Istria and Split is one of my favorites in the country. The drive winds along craggy coves and inlets, with views out to the scattered islands in the distance. This is one of the best stretches of coastline for exploring the historic towns of Croatia, like Zadar, Sibenik, and Trogir. It's along this section of the Adriatic coast that you can also detour to the island of Pag, one of the few islands you do not need a ferry to access.

Sibenik , in my opinion, is one of the most underrated medieval villages in Croatia. This coastal city is just as beautiful as its more touristy neighbors, Zadar and Trogir, but with a fraction of the crowds. Wander the narrow alleyways or stop for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink along the waterfront.

The most beautiful section of Sibenik is its main plaza, next to the Cathedral of St. James. You can also get a lovely bird's eye view of the town and the waterfront from the clifftop perch outside of St. John's Fort.

Trogir was my home base during this leg of my Croatia road trip, although it was very far south and became a slog to drive up to Zadar and Sibenik to explore. If I were to do the road trip again, I would have made Sibenik my base, simply for the ease of exploring Zadar and Pag.

But Trogir as a destination is wonderful and I would also suggest staying here a few nights, particularly if you are looking to explore a quintessential Old Town with a glamorous waterfront and a lengthy list of beautiful beaches . Trogir is about 30 minutes north of Split and, in my opinion, is like a mini version of the city.

Its historic Old Town sits on a small island, accessible by foot or car. The walled Old Town has the iconic red tile roofs, church steeples, and city gates that have become synonymous with medieval cities all along the Adriatic Coast. It is bite-sized, as well, and can be explored on foot all within a matter of a few hours.

Of course, it's very easy to explore Split from Trogir, which I would recommend. Split has many options for accommodation, including some of Croatia's top beach resorts , but parking, crowds, and prices tend to all be issues here, particularly in Croatia's high season, which runs from May through September. This is why I recommend Trogir over Split, especially if you have extra time.

The last leg of my Croatia road trip was the real showstopper: the Dalmatian Coast and the Makarska Riviera . Running between Split and Dubrovnik (more or less), the Dalmatian Coast is what you think of when you close your eyes and picture the Adriatic Coast.

It is along this coastline that you have Croatia's most famous islands, like Hvar, Brac, Vis, Korcula, and Mljet. The mainland coastline itself is jaw-droppingly beautiful as you wind in and out of beach town after beach town along what is known as the Makarska Riviera. Ever present along the drive are the looming Biokovo mountains, which tower along the Dalmatian coastline.

This stretch of coast is a paradise for beach lovers, as some of the best beaches in Croatia are found here. My favorite was Punta Rata , a stunning slice of turquoise-colored water and smooth, round white pebbles on the shore. With the views of the mountains unfolding as far as the eye can see and a color palette of bright turquoise, gleaming white, Mediterranean green, and copper from the village rooftops in the distance, this is the section of coast that will forever be etched into my memory.

The prize at the end of the journey is the world-famous city of Dubrovnik , legendary for its perfectly preserved walled Old Town — whose epic beauty has earned it leading roles in productions like Game of Thrones , Star Wars: The Last Jedi , and Robin Hood .

Though the city will have you feeling like you're stepping back in time, its modern energy vibrates with the hum of thousands of tourists, which can be admittedly overwhelming at times. But the epic beauty of the city makes up for it, with its stone streets, boat-filled harbor, and nearby pebbly beaches, plus its world-renowned hotels and restaurants. If you end your road trip here, then you will have seen the very best sights along Croatia's coastline.

Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can always press on and cross the border into Montenegro — which is exactly what we did.

But that is another story for another time.

More on Croatia

Discover Croatia: Zagreb to Dubrovnik- 9 Days

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Croatia, spanning from the vibrant capital of Zagreb to the enchanting coastal gem of Dubrovnik , encapsulating the essence of the Adriatic in just 9 captivating days.

Commence your adventure in Zagreb , where history seamlessly blends with modernity. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Upper Town, discovering architectural marvels such as St. Mark’s Church and the iconic Zagreb Cathedral.

Next, immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park , a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cascading waterfalls and azure lakes. Traverse wooden walkways amidst lush foliage, marveling at the ethereal beauty that surrounds you.

Continue your odyssey to Zadar , a coastal gem boasting Roman ruins and medieval churches. Witness the enchanting Sea Organ and Sun Salutation, innovative installations harnessing the power of the Adriatic.

In Šibenik , uncover the architectural splendor of St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO masterpiece adorned with intricate sculptural details.

Journey onward to the historic town of Trogir , a UNESCO gem brimming with Venetian architecture and ancient fortifications. Cruise through the idyllic islands dotting the Adriatic, each offering its own distinct charm and allure.

Explore the rugged beauty of the Neretva Valley , a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Experience the traditional way of life as you traverse the fertile plains and meandering river, dotted with ancient villages and historic landmarks.

Conclude your expedition in Dubrovnik , the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” where medieval walls encircle a treasure trove of Baroque churches and Renaissance palaces. Lose yourself in the maze-like streets of the Old Town before ascending the city walls for panoramic views of the shimmering coastline.

• All transportation in destination location as explaind in itinerary 
• Stella Croatica experience
• Hotel Accommodation in 4*  with breakfast
• Return Catamaran tickets for Hvar island
• Photo safari with authentic boat through the Neretva Valley 
• Entrance Fees to NP Plitvice Lakes, Klis fortress, NP Mljet
• Sightseeing tours included: Zagreb, Plitvice, Zadar, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, & Islands, Dubrovnik,
• Flight tickets
• Lunch, Dinner, drinks at meal time, extra services and costs which are not in the program as well as any personal expenses.
• Tips for guide and driver (non-compulsory)

Arrival to Zagreb Airport. Transfer to hotel in Zagreb. Consider heading out on a guided walking tour of the historic heart of the city. This involves walking from Ban Jelačić , the main square, to Zagreb’s  Upper Town  and passing through local markets before reaching  St. Mark’s Square . Alternatively, you can visit one of the many museums and art galleries, like the  Homeland War Museum , the  Nikola Tesla Technical Museum , or the ever-popular  Museum of Broken Hearts . Or stroll through the city centre, enjoying 17th-century neo-baroque architecture found at Zagreb’s  Art Pavilion  and  Croatian National Theater . Overnight at your hotel. (B)

Expert local guide will lead you throughout the park along the wooden paths and bridges to show you the most impressive points of interest and explain the significance of its history and natural features. After your tour (up to 3 hours), you will have free time to continue exploring, have lunch, or you may wish to bring a bought lunch (and a bottle of wine!) with you to enjoy a picnic. Departure towards Zadar for overnight.

Following breakfast, transfer toward Split , stopping in Šibenik for 2 hour guided tour . On this tour you will get a chance to learn about St. James Cathedral, our most popular attraction and beautiful monument from Renaissance pe­riod. Cathedral has been on UNESCO World Heritage List since 2000. Come mid-afternoon, travel further south to  Split , settling into your hotel before taking the rest of the afternoon to wander its historic center on your own.  Overnight at your hotel. (B)

After a leisurely morning in Split, your driver will pick you and you’ll catch the ferry to the island of  Hvar  and settle into your hotel. Hvar is a popular destination with tourists due to its natural setting, mild climate, and its historic port town of the same name. Highlights of  Hvar Town  include its 13th-century walls, a hilltop fortress, and the main square anchored by the Renaissance-era cathedral. or some of the best views of the island, Hvar Town, and the nearby  Pakleni Islands , take a short walk up to the 16th-century  Španjola   Fortress . Or, join a kayaking tour and head out on the Adriatic to discover the many secluded coves that outline the islands. You can also opt for organized tours of lavender plantations, olive groves, vineyards, and pine woods, which can include wine tastings, cycling, or hiking. Scooters are available for rent in Hvar Town and are a much faster option if you want to see more of the local scenery.After the day’s adventures, treat yourself to a drink in the ancient piazza of Hvar, overlooking the Venetian  loggia , 7th-century fortification walls, and the oldest municipal theater in Europe. Return to Split late afternoon. Overnight at your hotel. (B) 

On Your way discover the places where once the ancient Illyrians, Greeks, Romans sailed, and the pirates of Neretva planned their raids of enemy galleys.

Afternoon and evening is at leisure. Enjoy tasting local food in a local restaurant and the best days of summer in this beautiful town. Overnight in the hotel.(B)

Alternatively, for a collection of 15,000 pieces of interesting works, visit the  Rector’s Palace and C ultural Historical Museum . Wander this well-preserved palace-turned-museum and explore its exhibits, some detailing life in the Republic of Ragusa during medieval times.The drive to the airport from Dubrovnik takes around 45 minutes with normal traffic.

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Private tour šibenik, krka waterfalls & winery sladić, magnificent croatia: zagreb to dubrovnik – 7 days, explore croatia: dubrovnik to zagreb – 8 days, best of croatia: zagreb to dubrovnik – 12 days, charms of croatia: dubrovnik to zagreb – 10 days, classic dalmatia: split to dubrovnik – 7 days, tour locations, kornati national park, herceg novi, the neretva valley, island of brac, island of mljet, hvar island, plitvice lakes national park, get in touch.

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Croatia 13 Day Itinerary in July 2024 - Croatia Forum

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Zagreb- 3 Nights to Split -3 Nights.

Split to Hvar -3 Nights

Hvar to Dubrovnik-3 Nights

3 replies to this topic

Use busses and ferries.

For busses, use buscroatia.com or flixbus.

Hiring a car would give you flexibility you don't get with public transport.

Having said that, check krilo and TP lines for catamarans.

You don't need to prebook this far in advance. A few days in advance is sufficient IMO.

You can also use car ferries where available. As a foot passenger, you don't need to prebook those at all.

The car ferry goes to Stari Grad, not Hvar town. If you want to continue to Dubrovnik from Hvar , there are no car ferries on that route. Vast majority of car ferries go from the mainland to the islands, with a few exceptions.

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