Start your day with a relaxed Croatian breakfast at Dolac Market, sampling fresh pastries and local cheeses while watching vendors set up; then stroll up to Gradec (Gornji Grad) to admire its cobbled streets and hidden chapels. Pause for a coffee at Tkalčićeva Street and soak in the lively cafés and colorful facades before checking logistics for your evening arrival (airport transfer, luggage drop-off and any last-minute bookings).
Spend a leisurely afternoon wandering the leafy promenades of Zrinjevac Park, admiring its ornate fountains and music pavilion, then head to the nearby Croatian National Theatre for photos of its grand façade and, if time permits, a guided tour of the opulent interior. Finish with a relaxed early dinner at Oktogon Bistro (or another terrace on Radićeva Street) to sample modern Croatian cuisine and plan your smooth transfer to the airport for your 7:30 PM arrival.
After you arrive and drop luggage, take a gentle stroll to Ban Jelačić Square to feel the city's evening pulse, then wander a few blocks to the atmospheric Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata) where you can light a candle and admire the tiny chapel. Finish with a relaxed drink on the terrace of Café Šenoa or Bistro Apetit (both open late) for a taste of local wines and small plates before turning in-easy, close-by options that set up tomorrow's full-day explorations.
Begin with a peaceful morning walk through Maksimir Park, where you can wander tree-lined paths, visit the small lakes and spot peacocks near the pavilions before stopping for a late-breakfast at the lakeside café. Afterwards head to Mimara Museum to browse its eclectic collection of European and Oriental art, then pop into Archaeological Museum Zagreb for a compact but fascinating look at Croatia's ancient past - both offer calm indoor options to balance the park's fresh air.
Wander the compact charm of Ban Jelačić Square, then follow lively pedestrian streets to the colorful roofs of St. Mark's Church and pause for photos in the adjacent medieval lanes of Gornji Grad; climb the short hill to the viewpoint by Lotrščak Tower and, if the cannon fires at noon, feel the historic rhythm of the city. Continue with a relaxed visit to the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships for a memorable, human-curated collection, then enjoy a late-afternoon cake and coffee at the historic Dubravkin Put terrace before returning to your accommodation to prepare for tonight's plans.
As twilight falls, wander the revitalized riverside district to enjoy contemporary art at Museum of Contemporary Art Zagreb (MSU)'s evening events or temporary exhibitions, then cross to the nearby Bundek Lake for a peaceful lakeside promenade and sunset views. Finish with a convivial dinner at Lauba - House of Artists (which often hosts cultural programs) or a cozy gastropub on Heinzelova Street, sampling seasonal Croatian dishes and local craft beers while reflecting on the day's discoveries.
Set off early from Zagreb and stop for a hearty breakfast in the historic village of Slunj to sample local pastries and coffee beside the cascading waters of Korana River before continuing to the park. Arrive at Plitvice Lakes National Park (Entrance 1) in the morning to follow the wooden walkways past the emerald Veliki Slap (Large Waterfall) and take the electric boat across Lake Kozjak, soaking in crisp forest air and panoramic views before lunch.
After a morning on the main trails, take a quieter circuit to the park's lesser-trodden areas by walking the boardwalks toward Veliki Prštavac and the peaceful cascades feeding the upper lakes, where the light softens and photographers find mirror-like reflections. Later, board the scenic shuttle bus to the Upper Lakes lookout for panoramic views, then pause for a late-afternoon picnic by Gavanovac Lake (pick up sandwiches or local cheese in nearby Rakovica beforehand) before returning to your accommodation as evening colours deepen.
After the day's hikes, settle into the tranquil village near the park with a short walk to Rakovica River Viewpoint to watch golden light wash the cascades; then enjoy a riverside dinner at Lička Kuća sampling hearty Peka and local cheeses. Finish the evening with a relaxed stargazing stroll along the illuminated path by Entrance 2 or a cozy drink on the terrace of Guesthouse Borje, sharing highlights from the day's lakes and planning tomorrow's drive toward the coast.
Leave Plitvice early and enjoy a scenic coastal drive with a coffee stop at the seaside promenade of Nin's Saltworks where you can stroll salt pans and sample local sea salt; continue to Zadar to explore the waterfront, listening to the haunting tones of the Sea Organ and watching the light show at the Greeting to the Sun before heading south. Mid-morning, take a short detour to the historic fishing village of Biograd na Moru for a brisk harbor walk and fresh cevapi or grilled fish at a waterfront konoba, then resume the drive toward Split feeling refreshed and ready for the afternoon's Roman-era discoveries.
Drive into Split and wander the sunlit terraces of Diocletian's Palace, slipping through its Roman cellars to discover hidden courtyards and the bustling Peristyle where street musicians perform; climb the spiral staircase of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for panoramic rooftop views over the harbor. Afterwards, stroll the lively Riva promenade to sip a chilled beer at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine Bar and take a short ferry to the nearby Marjan Hill for a shaded pine walk, lookout points and a peaceful sunset above the Adriatic before dinner.
As twilight deepens, wander the winding lanes of Veli Varoš to discover its intimate konobas and murals, then take a short taxi up to Sustipan Park for sweeping coastal views and a peaceful cliffside bench to watch lights glitter across the Adriatic. For dinner, choose a seafood-focused konoba on Matejuška Harbor to savor grilled scampi and local white wine, then finish with a digestif at the lively waterfront bar near Prokurative Square, soaking in Split's relaxed night rhythm.
Cross the border early and arrive in Mostar to begin with a traditional Bosnian breakfast at Hindin Han, then wander the atmospheric Ottoman-era streets toward the riverside to watch local fishermen and the morning light on the water. Continue with a guided walk through the cobbled lanes to visit Kujundziluk (the Old Bazaar) for handcrafted souvenirs and a coffee at Tima-Irma Cafe, then climb the steps to Crooked Bridge viewpoint for a serene panorama before the day's crowds arrive.
After a morning in the old bazaar, wander across the iconic Stari Most and linger on the riverbanks to watch local divers and capture postcard views; then meander up to the Ottoman-era Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque to climb its minaret for sweeping panoramas of the Neretva and red-roofed streets. Follow this with a leisurely riverside lunch at Šadrvan Restaurant sampling cevapi and burek, then explore the evocative Muslibegović House museum to see restored merchant interiors and learn about daily life in Mostar's past.
As twilight settles, wander to Kajtaz House to admire its Ottoman-era garden and enjoy a quiet tea while locals play traditional melodies; then cross to the riverside and take a short boat ride from Mostar River Cruises for an intimate sunset view of the town and the illuminated bridge area. Finish with a convivial dinner at Hindin Han's terrace alternative, Sadrvan's sister konoba, sampling slow-cooked Bosnian lamb and a glass of regional plum rakija while sharing stories from the day's discoveries.
Begin with a leisurely Bosnian breakfast at Buregdžinica Bosna sampling freshly baked burek and ayran, then stroll through the leafy pathways to Latin Bridge to set the historical context of the city before the crowds arrive. Continue into the atmospheric Baščaršija neighborhood to wander the artisan lanes of Sebilj Fountain, explore the traditional copper workshops along Kazandžiluk (the Coppersmiths' Street), and stop for a strong Bosnian coffee at Morica Han while watching morning life unfold.
After a morning in Baščaršija, cross the Miljacka to explore the Austro-Hungarian quarter with a guided walk through Ferhadija Street, admire the ornate façade of Vijećnica (City Hall) and pop into the atmospheric Gazi Husrev-beg Library for a quiet look at Ottoman manuscripts. Pause for a late-afternoon snack of Bosnian sweets and tea at Morica Han's riverside cousin, then climb to Žuta Tabija (Yellow Fortress) for golden-hour views over the old town and a reflective moment on Sarajevo's layered history before an early evening mezze crawl back toward the Baščaršija cafés.
As dusk falls, wander to the atmospheric hillside of Fortress Sarajevo (Tvrdava) for panoramic sunset views across the valley, then descend to sample hearty local stews and seasonal salads at the cozy tavern Inat Kuća perched by the river. After dinner, join a guided evening walk through the illuminated lanes around Alipašina Street to discover intimate wine bars and a live-sećija (traditional music) performance at Jazzbina, ending the night with a nightcap on a terrace overlooking the Miljacka.
Drive coastal roads early and begin with a peaceful breakfast beside the marina at Kaštela Promenade in Trogir, then wander the morning market to sample fresh mandarins and artisan cheeses. Continue with a gentle stroll through Trogir's UNESCO-listed center to admire the sculptural details of St. Lawrence Cathedral and climb the adjacent bell tower for sweeping views, or opt for Šibenik where you can explore the sunlit terraces of St. Michael's Fortress and sip coffee overlooking the archipelago before heading onward toward your next stop.
Drive into Šibenik for a sunlit afternoon exploring the seaside promenades and the maritime museum at St. Nicholas Fortress, then wander the stone lanes to discover the Renaissance carvings of Cathedral of St. James before pausing for a seafood risotto at the waterfront Konoba Nostromo. Alternatively, choose Trogir's quieter side and stroll the quay to the small museum inside Cipiko Palace, climb the Kamerlengo Fortress ramparts for panoramic views of the harbor and islands, and relax with gelato under the plane trees of Trg Ivana Pavla II as the coast-bound drive continues toward Zagreb.
As daylight softens, settle into the harbor at Prvić Luka for a short island ferry hop and enjoy a seaside aperitif watching fishing boats drift home; return to the mainland for a sunset walk along Šibenik's waterfront promenade where you can browse artisanal stalls and catch a live street musician. Finish with dinner on a terrace at Konoba Pelegrini (for a refined take on Dalmatian flavours) or a rustic meal at Trogir's Fisherman's Konoba beneath the ramparts, then linger over a nightcap while the old town's stone plazas glow under warm lantern light.
Ease back into Zagreb with a relaxed breakfast at Kavkaz Coffee Roasters, then browse the curated boutiques along Ilica Street-stop at Botaničar for Croatian designer accessories and Luka Modrić Bookshop for travel memoirs and local photography books. Mid-morning, head to the charming covered arcade of Dolac Market Annex to pick up artisanal olive oil and honey as souvenirs, and finish with a calm canal-side walk through Zrinjevac Park Conservatory to savor the city's spring greenery before afternoon plans.
Stroll through European Square (Europski trg) and browse the nearby concept stores, then head to Britanski trg (British Square) to relax at an outdoor café and watch street performers while hunting for last-minute Croatian ceramics at Arte. Afterwards, visit Maksimir Botanical Garden for a peaceful walk among seasonal blooms and finish with a leisurely tasting of artisanal chocolates and craft liqueurs at Malko Coko & Likerija, perfect for souvenir treats before your evening plans.
As twilight falls, head to Martićeva Street for an aperitif at Pivnica Medvedgrad followed by a relaxed stroll through the illuminated lanes of Maksimirska Promenada, where outdoor sculptures glow gently in the night. Continue to Tkalčićeva's quieter side streets to discover a family-run konoba such as Konoba Didov San for a slow, home-style dinner of seasonal plates and finish with a nightcap at the speakeasy-style Dežman Bar, reflecting on the trip and packing small souvenirs bought earlier.
Wake early for a relaxed final Croatian breakfast at Café U Dvorištu near your accommodation, then take a short scenic walk through the nearby lanes to enjoy last glimpses of Zagreb's spring light before collecting luggage. Arrange a private transfer or hop into an Airport Shuttle from Glavni Kolodvor (Zagreb Central Station)-time permitting, pause for a final espresso at Otto & Frank in the station before the smooth drive to Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tuđman Airport) and check-in for your flight home.
Spend a relaxed final afternoon wandering the leafy terraces of Bundek Lake, enjoying a lakeside coffee at Caffe Bar Bundek and renting a pedal boat for one last calm view of Zagreb's skyline. Before heading to the airport, stop at Avenija Mall to pick up any forgotten Croatian delicacies (olive oil, rakija) and enjoy a casual farewell meal at Restoran Vatra for grilled specialities, then collect luggage and take a direct taxi or pre-booked transfer to Zagreb Airport (Franjo Tuđman Airport) for a smooth check-in.
For a final relaxed Zagreb evening before tomorrow's morning departure, enjoy a calm riverside walk along Sava River Promenade, watching soft lights reflect on the water, then stop for a light dinner of seasonal small plates at the intimate Bistro & Wine Bar Kaptol to savor one last Croatian wine. Finish with a slow stroll through the illuminated arcade of Vlaška Street to pick up a final pastry at Artisan Patisserie Kraš and a calming herbal tea at Zagreb Tea House before returning to your accommodation to pack and rest.