This Croatia itinerary takes you from the medieval charm of Dubrovnik all the way to Zagreb, with scenic islands, dramatic waterfalls, and historic towns in between.
Along the way, you’ll explore ancient city centres, take coastal drives, hike through national parks, and even cross into neighbouring Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina on easy day trips. This route covers a mix of highlights and hidden corners, balancing relaxing stays with active sightseeing.
If you’re travelling in spring or autumn, you’ll find this itinerary especially rewarding, with fewer crowds and vibrant seasonal colours. Ready to begin?
Planning Your Trip to Croatia
Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, here are a few practical tips to help you plan your Croatia adventure.
How to Get to Croatia
Croatia is well-connected by air, especially in peak season.
- Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb all have international airports with regular flights from across Europe. During the summer season you can usually also fly to Zadar, Rijeka and Pula.
- If you’re coming from Montenegro, Bosnia & Herzegovina, or Slovenia, it’s easy to arrive by bus or rental car.
For this itinerary, flying into Dubrovnik and out of Zagreb makes the most sense. Or if you don’t want to visit Zagreb, you can also fly out of Pula or Rijeka.
Getting Around Croatia
Croatia is a long, narrow country, so transport options vary depending on the region.
- Ferries | Ideal for travelling between coastal cities and islands (especially Dubrovnik–Hvar–Split).
- Buses | Reliable and budget-friendly for major routes, but less flexible if you’re short on time. Works well if you use the main towns as a base to explore the region around it on organised day trips.
- Car Rental | Highly recommended for the second half of this trip. We picked up our rental car in Split and dropped it off in Zagreb, which was perfect for exploring Krka, Plitvice, and Istria. Find the best deals on booking.com.
When to Visit Croatia
The best time to follow this Croatia itinerary is May to early October.
We visited in late October and loved the autumn colours, especially in the national parks, but do note that some coastal spots can be quieter or already shutting down for the season.
June and September are ideal as they’re warm, but less crowded than peak summer.
Croatia Itinerary Days 1–4 | Dubrovnik & Day Trips
Start your journey in Dubrovnik, one of the most iconic cities on the Adriatic coast. With its fortified Old Town, baroque architecture, and views over the shimmering sea, it’s the perfect introduction to Croatia.
Spending four days here gives you enough time to explore the city itself and take two organised day trips to nearby countries. No extra visa needed for passport holders from most Western countries.
Even when you don’t go abroad, there’s plenty of other options in Dubrovnik. Just check out the ideas in my one week in Dubrovnik article.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Dubrovnik
Begin by exploring the compact UNESCO-listed Old Town. Walk the City Walls for unforgettable views over the terracotta rooftops, and don’t miss landmarks like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and Stradun, the city’s main street.
Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for sunset, or enjoy quieter moments around Gradac Park, Pile Gate, and Lapad Bay. Need more ideas? Then read my article on things to do in Dubrovnik.
If you’re visiting in shoulder season, you’ll likely have many of these spots to yourself. Unless there’s large cruise ships in town, so check the schedule and plan your days accordingly.
Go on a Day Trip to the Bay of Kotor (Montenegro)
Use one of your days in Dubrovnik to join a small-group tour to Montenegro. We joined this one small group tour that takes you along the coast to the beautiful Bay of Kotor.
On the way stop in Perast, a peaceful village known for its baroque buildings and access to Our Lady of the Rocks, a picturesque island church. Then continue to wander the fortified town of Kotor.
The tour is an easy way to get a taste of Montenegro without adding an overnight stay. And the landscapes along the way are stunning as well.
Head to Kravica Waterfalls & Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina)
On yet another day in Dubrovnik join this organised tour to Kravica Falls and Mostar in Bosnia & Herzegovina. Surrounded by forest and limestone cliffs, Kravica waterfalls are perfect for a short hike or a refreshing swim in warmer months.
Afterwards, continue to Mostar, one of the most picturesque towns in the Balkans. Stroll through the Ottoman-era Old Bazaar, cross the famous Stari Most bridge, and take in views of the Neretva River.
Don’t forget to try some local dishes like ćevapi or burek before heading back to Dubrovnik.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
Stay inside or just outside the Old Town walls for easy access to the city’s main sights.
- Boutique Hotel Stari Grad | Excellent rooftop views and a quiet base in the centre
- Hotel Villa Monte Santo | A peaceful, well-designed stay just steps from the Old Town
- Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik | A classic luxury hotel with sea views, history, and an unbeatable location near Pile Gate
Croatia Itinerary Days 5–6 | Hvar Island
After four packed days based in Dubrovnik, it’s time to slow the pace a little. Hvar offers a mix of lively coastal towns, scenic walking routes, and small inland villages, especially outside peak season.
You’ll reach the island by ferry directly from Dubrovnik, often with some stops along the way in Mljet and Korcula. In season there’s multiple ferries a day, operated by Krilo and TP-Line. You can book them all easily on omio.com.
Spend two nights here to soak up the charm of Croatia’s most famous island.
Explore Hvar Town and the Coast on Foot
Base yourself in Hvar Town, known for its harbour views, Venetian architecture, and relaxed cafés. Start your day with a walk up to the Španjola Fortress for some amazing views of the town and nearby Pakleni Islands. The path winds through pine trees and takes about 20 minutes.
In the afternoon, follow the coastal paths heading east of town to Pokonji Dol beach and Mekicevica Beach. You’ll pass small coves, rocky beaches, and clear turquoise waters that are perfect for a swim if the weather’s right. The walk is peaceful and easy to follow, especially outside the busy summer months.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a konoba in the old town and a drink along the harbour.
Go on a Road Trip Around the Island
On your second day, rent a car to explore Hvar’s western side. The island’s interior is dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields. Though the blooms are seasonal, the scenery is always worth the drive.
Suggested route:
- Stop at Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe
- Continue to Vrboska, a pretty village known as “Little Venice”
- Drive along the coastal road toward Jelsa for a relaxed lunch
- Visit a winery or take a short hike in the countryside before looping back on the interior road via Brusje
Roads can be narrow in places, so take your time as this is one of the most scenic drives of the trip.
At the end of the day, return to Hvar Town for dinner, and then take the final ferry of the day to Split.
No car? Then go on this island tour including a wine tasting and local dinner.
Where to Stay in Hvar
Base yourself in Hvar Town for the best mix of sights, food, and ferry access.
- Pharos Hvar Bayhill Hotel | Good for younger travellers, with a pool and social vibe
- Heritage Hotel Park Hvar | A stylish stay with views of the harbour
- History Hvar Design Heritage Suites | We stayed here and loved it. The place has beautifully designed apartments in a historic building, just steps from the main square
- Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel | A sleek and modern hotel with a rooftop terrace and excellent spa facilities
Croatia Itinerary Day 7 | Discover Split’s Historic Centre
Wake up in Split, Croatia’s second-largest city and a fascinating stop along the coast. With a full day here, you can dive into a mix of Roman ruins, medieval alleyways, and modern seaside life, all packed into a walkable centre.
Discover Diocletian’s Palace & the Old Town
Start your day exploring the heart of Split, the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. Built in the 4th century, this Roman complex isn’t a museum, it’s a living part of the city. Locals still live and work inside its walls, and cafés spill out into ancient courtyards.
Highlights include:
- The Peristyle (main square) and Cathedral of Saint Domnius
- The Bell Tower for panoramic views
- The Basement Halls, now filled with shops
- Tiny alleys and hidden corners behind every turn
Everything is easy to explore on foot, and you’ll likely want to linger in a few spots. So, this morning’s activities will easily take you far into the afternoon. Go on this walking tour if you want a little more context as you explore Split.
Follow the Riva Promenade and Head to Marjan Park
After lunch, take a walk along the Riva promenade, where locals sip their drinks with views of the harbour. From there, head up to Marjan Hill, a green escape with panoramic viewpoints. The walk is uphill but manageable, and the scenery makes it worthwhile.
If you have time, browse Split’s green market or visit a local gallery like the Meštrović Gallery for a cultural break.
End your day with dinner in the Old Town or down by the water. Split’s mix of casual konobas and upscale spots has something for every taste.
Where to Stay in Split
Stay in or near the Old Town so you can walk to Diocletian’s Palace and the Riva.
- Hotel Luxe | Just outside the walls with sea views and parking
- Judita Palace Heritage Hotel | Elegant rooms right on the main square
- Divota Apartment Hotel | Scattered apartments with hotel-like service
Croatia Itinerary Day 8 | Šibenik & Krka National Park
On Day 8, it’s time to hit the road. Pick up your rental car in the morning and begin your drive north along the Dalmatian coast. This stretch of the journey is packed with highlights, so plan for a full day with a couple of well-timed stops before reaching Zadar in the evening.
No car? Book this day tour to visit Krka and Trogir with return to Split.
Drive to the Historic Centre of Šibenik
Your first stop is Šibenik, a coastal town with a unique charm and a compact historic centre. It’s best known for the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage Site made entirely of stone. Wander through the narrow lanes, grab a coffee on a quiet square, and enjoy the laid-back pace.
You won’t need more than an hour or two to take in the highlights, but it’s a great first break from the drive.
Tip: Alternatively, you can also visit Trogir, another UNESCO-listed town along the Dalmatian coast. It’s a lot more touristy though than Šibenik, but a worthwhile visit.
Walk the Boardwalks in Krka National Park
Next, continue to Krka National Park, just a short drive from Šibenik. While smaller than Plitvice, Krka is still spectacular, especially because you can get up close to the waterfalls.
The most popular area is Skradinski Buk, where a wooden boardwalk winds through streams and cascades. If you have extra time, consider adding Roški Slap or the Visovac Monastery island to your route.
You’ll likely spend 2–3 hours here, depending on your pace. Entry tickets vary by season, so check in advance.
Arrive in Zadar
After Krka, continue your drive to Zadar, arriving late afternoon, early evening. This historic port city will be your base for the next two nights.
If there’s time, take a short sunset stroll along the promenade and enjoy the solar powered light installation ‘Greeting to the Sun’, but don’t worry, you’ll have more time to explore tomorrow.
Where to Stay in Zadar
Choose the Old Town if you want history and atmosphere, or stay nearby with easier parking.
- Art Hotel Kalelarga | Modern and central, with a local feel
- Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel | Boutique charm steps from the Roman Forum
- Teatro Verdi Boutique Hotel | Walkable to all main sights
- Apartments & Rooms Mareta Exclusive | Stylish, modern rooms with comfortable beds, sleek design, and excellent location
Croatia Itinerary Day 9 | Explore Zadar
Zadar is often overlooked, but it’s one of Croatia’s most interesting coastal cities. With Roman ruins, medieval churches, modern art, and a dramatic waterfront, it offers a unique mix of history and atmosphere, without the crowds of more famous spots.
With a full day here, you’ll have plenty of time to experience its main highlights.
Learn about the Roman Ruins & Historic Streets
Start your day in the Old Town, located on a peninsula and easy to explore on foot. Key sights include:
- The Roman Forum, laid out during the 1st century BC
- The Church of St. Donatus, a 9th-century landmark built over the ruins
- The Cathedral of St. Anastasia, with its striking bell tower (you can climb it for great views)
- The Land Gate and old Venetian walls, part of a UNESCO-listed fortification system
Zadar’s streets are full of charm with marble underfoot, stone façades, and small cafés tucked away in every square.
Continue in Zadar with Museums, the Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun
If you’re into museums, consider visiting the Museum of Ancient Glass for one of the most unique collections in Croatia. Alternatively, enjoy a slow lunch and some seaside relaxation.
Later in the afternoon, head to the city’s modern waterfront where Zadar’s two most famous contemporary sights await.
- The Sea Organ, an experimental instrument built into the marble steps, plays music powered by the waves.
- Next to it, the Greeting to the Sun, a solar-powered installation, comes alive at night with colourful lights.
Experience the Sunset on the Promenade
Zadar is famous for its sunsets that Alfred Hitchcock once called them the best in the world. End your day with a drink on the promenade or dinner in the Old Town, watching the sun dip behind the islands on the horizon.
Croatia Itinerary Day 10 | To Rijeka via Plitvice Lakes National Park
Day 10 takes you inland, trading coastal towns for Croatia’s most iconic national park.
Plitvice Lakes is a must-visit on any trip through Croatia, with its terraced turquoise lakes, wooden walkways, and stunning waterfalls. The park is especially magical in autumn when the forest glows in shades of gold and red.
Drive to Plitvice Lakes and Admire the Waterfalls
Leave Zadar early to make the most of your time at Plitvice Lakes National Park. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the route.
Once you arrive, choose from several marked walking loops. For a half-day visit, Route C or Route H are great options — both cover the Lower Lakes and the Veliki Slap (Great Waterfall), and include a scenic boat ride across Kozjak Lake.
Wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks or water with you, because there’s limited food once you’re on the trails.
Arrive in Rijeka
After your hike, continue driving north toward Rijeka, a journey of about 2.5 hours. By the time you arrive, you’ll likely want to unwind. This coastal port city isn’t a major tourist destination, but it’s a convenient overnight stop with excellent dining options.
Where to Stay in Rijeka
We stayed at the Hilton Rijeka Costabella, just outside the city, mainly for the food. The on-site fine dining restaurant was one of our favourite meals of the trip. If you’re into food travel, the Hilton Rijeka is worth considering as more than just a place to sleep.
Croatia Itinerary Day 11 | Day Trip to Pula
With a full day at your disposal, take a detour to the Istrian Peninsula to explore Pula, a city famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins and relaxed coastal feel. It’s just under a two-hour drive from Rijeka, making it an easy day trip if you get an early start.
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre in the Heart of Pula
Pula’s standout attraction is the Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in the world. Unlike the Colosseum in Rome, you can walk freely through its underground corridors and upper levels, giving you a real sense of its original scale and use.
After visiting the arena, explore more of Pula’s ancient sites:
- The Temple of Augustus, on the old Roman forum
- The Triumphal Arch of the Sergii, marking the entrance to the city
- Parts of the original city walls and Roman gates
The city centre is compact, so you can see most of the highlights within a few hours.
What I really loved about Pula was how different it felt from the many Venetian-built towns along the Croatian coast. The Roman history takes centre stage here, and walking through the amphitheatre and ancient forum gives the city a completely different atmosphere.
Go on a Coastal Walk or Have Lunch in Town
After sightseeing, enjoy lunch at one of Pula’s many cafés or konobas. Istria is known for its truffles and olive oil, so look for regional specialities on the menu.
If you want to stretch your legs, follow the waterfront promenade or head toward the Verudela Peninsula, just a short drive away, for sea views and quiet beaches.
Return to Rijeka for a Michelin-star Dinner
Drive back to Rijeka in the late afternoon or early evening. If you’re staying at the Hilton Rijeka, this is a great night to enjoy a relaxed dinner and sunset views before hitting the road again the next day.
Croatia Itinerary Day 12 | Drive to Zagreb
On Day 12, it’s time to leave the coast behind and head inland to Zagreb, Croatia’s capital. The drive from Rijeka takes about 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
While this leg is more about getting from A to B, the shift from coastal scenery to rolling hills and city life marks a fitting transition for the final part of your trip.
If you have time, consider stopping for lunch along the way in a smaller town like Karlovac or one of the roadside rest stops with local-style food. Otherwise, aim to arrive in Zagreb by early afternoon to settle in and get your bearings.
Check into your accommodation and take a relaxed walk through your new surroundings. Zagreb feels different from the coastal towns, with Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy streets, and a more lived-in vibe.
Croatia Itinerary Days 13–14 | Explore Zagreb
With two full days in Zagreb, you’ll have time to dive into the city’s mix of culture, history, and everyday life. It’s walkable, creative, and full of local character — a great way to wrap up your Croatian adventure.
Explore the Upper Town, Markets & Museums
Start your day in the Upper Town (Gornji Grad), the oldest part of the city. Don’t miss:
- St. Mark’s Church, with its colourful tiled roof
- The Stone Gate, a shrine built into a medieval passage
- The Lotrščak Tower, where a cannon still fires every day at noon
From there, take the funicular or stairs down to the Lower Town, where you’ll find the Dolac Market, a great spot to pick up local produce, souvenirs, or snacks.
In the afternoon, explore one of Zagreb’s standout museums. The most popular? The Museum of Broken Relationships, filled with personal and often moving stories from around the world.
Discover Zagreb’s Street Art, Coffee Culture & Local Life
Zagreb is a city made for wandering. Spend your final day exploring some of its creative corners such as the Art Park, hidden courtyards, or one of the city’s many street art routes.
Stop for coffee in one of the many cafés in Tkalčićeva Street, or check out the peaceful Maksimir Park if you’re craving green space.
If you’re into design or concept stores, browse local finds in the Martićeva neighbourhood, a rising star in Zagreb’s creative scene.
Finish your trip with a relaxed dinner at a neighbourhood bistro or go for something upscale to mark the end of your journey.
Where to Stay in Zagreb
Stay in Donji Grad (Lower Town) or near Ban Jelačić Square for the best access to shops, museums, and restaurants.
- Esplanade Zagreb Hotel | Classic luxury right by the train station
- Timeout Heritage Hotel | A trendy pick close to nightlife and attractions
- Canopy by Hilton Zagreb City Centre | We stayed here and loved the modern design. The hotel has a unique Transfer Lounge for early arrivals or late departures
Map of the Route
To help visualise this two-week Croatia itinerary, here’s a custom Google Map with all the main stops.
The map includes the key overnight stops, day trip destinations and the national parks.
Croatia Travel Tips
Before you go, here are a few practical tips that might come in handy during your two-week journey:
- Currency | Croatia uses the euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for small cafés, markets, and tips.
- Connectivity | EU travellers can use free roaming. Others can easily pick up an eSIM card with Airalo for Croatia or Europe.
- Wi-Fi | Most hotels, cafés, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. Speeds are generally reliable even in smaller towns.
- Power Plugs | Croatia uses Type C and F plugs (like most of continental Europe), with a standard voltage of 230V.
- Language | The official language is Croatian, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basics (like hvala for thank you) is always appreciated.
- Road Rules | If you’re renting a car drive on the right-hand side. Highways are excellent and well sign-posted, though some roads (like the A1) have toll fees. Watch out for narow roads on the islands and in hill towns.
Final Thoughts on this Croatia Itinerary
This two-week Croatia itinerary offers a perfect balance of coastal cities, island escapes, national parks, and cultural experiences. From walking Dubrovnik’s walls to hearing the Sea Organ in Zadar, swimming near waterfalls, and exploring Zagreb’s museum scene, every day brings something different.
Have you been to Croatia, or have any questions? Feel free to drop a comment below, or reach out to me on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you. And make sure to sign up for my newsletter to get travel guides and insider tips in your mail.
Planning your trip to Croatia? Then check out my Croatia Travel Guide for more travel inspiration, or continue reading the latest articles:
