Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

15-Day Central Europe and Croatia Itinerary with Hallstatt and Budapest Day Trips

Day 1 · Fri, May 28
Prague

Prague arrival and orientation

  1. Prague Airport to Old Town — Prague Airport → city center; afternoon, allow ~1 hour door-to-door for transfer and check-in.
  2. Old Town Square — Staré Město; late afternoon, ~45 minutes exploring the Astronomical Clock and historic buildings.
  3. Charles Bridge — Old Town–Malá Strana; sunset, ~1 hour for the river views.
  4. Café Savoy — Malá Strana; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately CZK 500–900 per person.

Afternoon Arrival

From Václav Havel Airport Prague, allow roughly an hour door-to-door to Staré Město, including baggage collection, transport, and hotel check-in. The simplest option is the Airport Express bus to Praha hlavní nádraží, followed by a short taxi or tram ride; a pre-booked taxi is more comfortable with luggage and usually costs about CZK 700–1,000. Public transport is much cheaper—around CZK 40–50 for a 90-minute ticket—but requires a bus and metro or tram connection. Once checked in, keep the first outing gentle and walk toward Old Town Square.

Late Afternoon

Spend about 45 minutes around Old Town Square, taking in the Týn Church, pastel façades, and the Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall. The clock’s hourly display is brief and crowded, so treat it as a curiosity rather than the main event; if you want to go inside the tower, tickets and timed entry may be available, but do not force this on an arrival afternoon. From the square, follow Karlova Street toward Charles Bridge, allowing 15–20 minutes and plenty of pauses in the small lanes. The bridge is busiest in the center, so walk to the ends for better views of the Vltava and the domes of Malá Strana.

Evening

Aim to reach Charles Bridge around sunset, but check the actual sunset time and expect crowds, especially on a Friday. After crossing, continue through Malá Strana to Café Savoy for dinner—roughly 15 minutes from the bridge, or take tram 12, 15, 20, or 22 toward Újezd if your feet and luggage are protesting. Reserve ahead if possible; dinner generally runs about CZK 500–900 per person, and the high-ceilinged interior is worth seeing even if you only stop for dessert. Keep the evening relaxed after the flight: Prague is best enjoyed slowly, and the riverside streets around Kampa make an easy post-dinner wander if you still have energy.

Day 2 · Sat, May 29
Prague

Prague highlights

  1. Prague Castle — Hradčany; morning, ~3 hours; reserve timed entry for St. Vitus Cathedral if available.
  2. Golden Lane — Prague Castle complex; late morning, ~45 minutes.
  3. Lennon Wall — Malá Strana; early afternoon, ~30 minutes.
  4. Kampa Park — Malá Strana; afternoon, ~1 hour beside the Vltava.
  5. Lokál U Bílé kuželky — Malá Strana; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately CZK 400–700 per person.

Morning

Start early at Prague Castle, ideally arriving around 8:30–9:00 through Pohořelec or Malostranské náměstí before the main sightseeing crowds build. Allow about three hours for the courtyards and principal interiors, with St. Vitus Cathedral as the essential stop. Reserve a timed cathedral entry if the booking system offers one for your date; security lines and ticket queues can add 20–40 minutes. The castle complex is best explored on foot, and comfortable shoes matter on the sloping cobbles.

Late in the morning, continue to Golden Lane, included within the castle circuit. Its tiny historic houses are charming but narrow, so it is more enjoyable before tour groups arrive; allow around 45 minutes. Walk downhill afterward toward Malá Strana, roughly 20–25 minutes via Nerudova and the castle steps, or take tram 22 for the less strenuous option. For lunch, pick up something casual along Mostecká rather than pausing for a long restaurant meal, since the afternoon is designed for wandering.

Afternoon

Make Lennon Wall your first stop in Malá Strana, allowing about half an hour to look at the changing layers of messages and artwork. It is a compact stop, but the surrounding lanes near Velkopřevorské náměstí are worth exploring slowly. From there, stroll into Kampa Park for about an hour beside the Vltava. Follow the riverside paths toward the park’s lawns and waterwheel area; this is a good place to sit, take photographs, and let the day’s pace ease off. If you want a coffee, the cafés around Kampa are convenient, though prices are higher than across the river.

Evening

Have dinner at Lokál U Bílé kuželky, a relaxed Czech beer hall near Malostranské náměstí. Expect roughly CZK 400–700 per person before any extensive drinks order, with hearty Czech dishes and freshly poured beer rather than formal dining. Arrive around 18:30–19:00, especially on a Saturday, or reserve if possible. Afterward, avoid adding another major sight: a short evening walk through Malá Strana toward the Charles Bridge gives you Prague’s atmospheric nighttime views without turning the day into a race.

Day 3 · Sun, May 30
Munich

Munich city stay

Getting there from Prague
Train via České dráhy/DB (direct or via Regensburg), about 5.5–6.5 hours, approximately CZK 900–1,800 (€35–70). Depart around 07:00–08:00 from Praha hlavní nádraží to arrive mid-afternoon; book on cd.cz or bahn.de.
FlixBus, about 5–6 hours, €25–50; book on flixbus.com. Usually cheaper but less comfortable.
  1. Prague to Munich by train — Prague hlavní nádraží to München Hbf; morning, allow ~6.5–7.5 hours including station access and check-in logistics.
  2. Marienplatz — Altstadt; late afternoon, ~1 hour after arrival.
  3. Viktualienmarkt — Altstadt; early evening, ~1 hour for Bavarian snacks and market browsing.
  4. Hofbräuhaus München — Altstadt; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €25–45 per person.
  5. Isar River promenade — Altstadt–Ludwigsvorstadt; evening, ~45 minutes if energy allows.

Late Afternoon

After the morning train from Prague—allow roughly 6.5–7.5 hours door-to-door, including getting to Praha hlavní nádraží, possible platform changes, and hotel check-in—you should reach München Hbf around mid-afternoon. From the station, walk or take the U-Bahn a couple of stops toward the Altstadt, drop your bags, and head to Marienplatz. Spend about an hour taking in the Neues Rathaus, St. Peter’s Church exterior, and the surrounding lanes; the square is lively, but the pedestrian streets just south toward Sendlinger Straße are better for an unhurried first wander. If you want to go up the church tower, check the day’s entry hours and allow extra time for the climb.

Early Evening

A short walk brings you to Viktualienmarkt, where the stalls are ideal for an informal first taste of Bavaria: try a Leberkäse roll, Obatzda with pretzels, or seasonal fruit and pastries. The market generally winds down by early evening, so browse soon after arriving rather than treating it as a late-night stop. For dinner, continue a few minutes to Hofbräuhaus München. It is touristy but atmospheric and convenient on an arrival day; expect roughly €25–45 per person for a hearty meal and beer. Seating can be communal, and waits are possible, so go directly after the market rather than returning later.

Evening

If you still have energy, finish with a gentle 45-minute walk along the Isar River promenade, heading southeast from the center toward Ludwigsvorstadt. The riverbanks are especially pleasant around dusk, and this gives you a quieter contrast to the crowded beer hall. Keep the walk flexible—after a long rail day, returning to your hotel early is sensible. Munich’s U-Bahn and trams are straightforward, but check the final connection and validate or purchase the correct local ticket before boarding; contactless payment is available on many services, though the exact ticket options depend on the route.

Day 4 · Mon, May 31
Salzburg

Hallstatt day trip from Salzburg

Getting there from Munich
Bayerische Regiobahn (BRB) train, about 1 hour 45 minutes, €25–35. Depart around 07:00–08:00 from München Hbf; book via bahn.de or the DB Navigator app.
  1. Salzburg to Hallstatt by train and ferry/bus — Salzburg Hbf to Hallstatt; morning, allow ~3 hours door-to-door; check connections and ferry or bus schedules in advance.
  2. Hallstatt Old Town — Lakeside village; late morning, ~1.5 hours.
  3. Hallstatt Skywalk — Salzberg; midday, ~2 hours including funicular queues; advance ticketing is advisable in peak periods.
  4. Lake Hallstatt boat ride — Hallstatt waterfront; afternoon, ~45 minutes, subject to seasonal schedule and weather.
  5. Traditional lakeside restaurant in Hallstatt — Waterfront; lunch, ~1 hour; approximately €20–35 per person.
  6. Hallstatt to Salzburg — Return by scheduled train and ferry/bus; late afternoon or early evening, allow ~3 hours.

Morning

Take an early train from Salzburg Hbf toward Hallstatt, allowing roughly three hours door-to-door once you include the local connection and the ferry or replacement bus from Hallstatt station into the village. Check the exact ÖBB connection the night before: the ferry is wonderfully scenic but does not meet every train, and schedules can vary by season. Aim to arrive around 10:30–11:00, before the waterfront becomes busiest.

Spend about 90 minutes wandering Hallstatt Old Town, following the lakeside promenade and narrow lanes around Marktplatz. This is the time to enjoy the village rather than rush through photographs; the best views are along the water just beyond the central square. For lunch, choose a traditional lakeside restaurant such as Restaurant im Seehotel Grüner Baum or Gasthof Simony—expect roughly €20–35 per person, and allow extra time if you want a terrace table.

Afternoon

Continue to the Hallstatt Skywalk on the Salzberg above the village. The funicular ride is only a few minutes, but queues can be significant in peak periods, so pre-book a combined funicular and viewing-platform ticket if available and allow around two hours overall. The platform gives the classic high view over the rooftops and Lake Hallstatt; weather can change quickly, so bring a light layer even if the village feels warm.

Back at the waterfront, take the scheduled Lake Hallstatt boat ride for approximately 45 minutes. Confirm the sailing time before going up to Salzberg, since the service is seasonal and weather-dependent; if the boat is not running, keep the waterfront walk as your relaxed alternative rather than trying to force a tight connection.

Evening

Return via the scheduled ferry or bus to Hallstatt station, then take the train back to Salzburg, allowing close to three hours door-to-door. Leave enough margin for the final connection rather than choosing the last possible service—this route is scenic but relatively infrequent, and a missed ferry or train can add a long wait. Back in Salzburg, keep the evening simple around Neubau or the Linzergasse area; you will have had a full day outdoors, and an early night will make tomorrow’s Salzburg and lakes-region plans much more enjoyable.

Day 5 · Tue, Jun 1
Salzburg

Salzburg and lakes region

  1. Mirabell Palace and Gardens — Neustadt; morning, ~1.5 hours.
  2. Getreidegasse — Old Town; late morning, ~1 hour of historic lanes and shops.
  3. Mozart’s Birthplace — Getreidegasse; midday, ~1 hour; reserve admission if the museum is a priority.
  4. Salzburg Cathedral — Altstadt; afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  5. Mönchsberg Lift and Museum der Moderne Salzburg — Mönchsberg; late afternoon, ~1.5 hours for views and galleries.
  6. Balkan Grill Salzburg — Getreidegasse area; dinner, ~45 minutes; approximately €10–20 per person.

Morning

Start at Mirabell Palace and Gardens around 8:30–9:00, when the parterres and Pegasus Fountain are especially pleasant and tour groups have not yet filled the paths. Allow about 1½ hours, including the Marble Hall if it is open to visitors; access can vary with concerts and private events, so check the palace schedule beforehand. From the gardens, cross the Makartsteg footbridge into the old town—an easy 10–15-minute walk—and continue to Getreidegasse. Spend an hour browsing the ornate guild signs, passageways, and independent shops rather than rushing straight through the main lane.

At midday, visit Mozart’s Birthplace at Getreidegasse 9. The museum generally takes about an hour, and advance tickets are sensible if this is a priority, particularly during the summer season; allow time for a possible entry queue. For a quick break afterward, stop at Café Tomaselli on the nearby Alter Markt for coffee and cake, though service can be leisurely and prices reflect its historic setting.

Afternoon

Walk through the compact Altstadt to Salzburg Cathedral, allowing roughly 45 minutes for the interior and the surrounding cathedral square. Check the liturgical schedule before visiting, since services may restrict sightseeing access; modest clothing is appreciated. Continue toward the Mönchsberg Lift, a short walk away, and ride up to Museum der Moderne Salzburg. Give yourself about 1½ hours for the galleries and the terrace views over the rooftops and river. A combined lift-and-museum ticket is usually around €15–20, with reduced fares for some visitors; the lift is the easiest way up, while walking back down is a good option if you still have energy.

Evening

Return toward Getreidegasse for dinner at Balkan Grill Salzburg, a tiny, casual counter known for its Bosna sausage in a spiced roll. Expect roughly €10–20 per person, but seating is limited and the queue can build around dinner time. It is best treated as a relaxed, quick meal rather than a long restaurant evening. Afterward, wander the quieter lanes around Franziskanergasse and the riverfront; the old town is particularly atmospheric once the day-trippers have left.

Day 6 · Wed, Jun 2
Vienna

Vienna city stay

Getting there from Salzburg
ÖBB Railjet, about 2 hours 30 minutes, €25–60. Depart around 08:00–09:00 from Salzburg Hbf to arrive before noon; book on oebb.at.
Westbahn, about 2 hours 30 minutes, €25–45; book on westbahn.at. Check the destination station, as some services use Wien Westbahnhof.
  1. Salzburg to Vienna by train — Salzburg Hbf to Wien Hbf; morning, allow ~3.5–4.5 hours door-to-door including station transfers.
  2. Belvedere Palace — Landstraße; afternoon, ~2 hours; reserve a timed slot for Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss.
  3. Karlskirche — Wieden; late afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  4. Naschmarkt — Wieden; early evening, ~1 hour for stalls and snacks.
  5. Gasthaus Rosi — Wieden; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €25–45 per person.

Morning — Salzburg to Vienna

Take a morning ÖBB Railjet from Salzburg Hbf to Wien Hauptbahnhof, allowing roughly 3½–4½ hours door to door once you include the walk to the station, boarding buffer, and onward transfer. A departure around 8:00–9:00 should get you into Vienna around midday. From Wien Hbf, Belvedere Palace is an easy walk or a short tram ride; leave luggage at your hotel or a station locker before sightseeing. Reserve a timed entry in advance for the Upper Belvedere, particularly for Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss—your train timing should be built around that reservation rather than the other way around.

Afternoon — Belvedere and Wieden

Spend about two hours at Belvedere Palace, starting with the Upper Belvedere’s Klimt collection before wandering through the Baroque rooms and gardens. The palace complex is generally open Tuesday through Sunday, but hours and timed-entry rules can change, so check the official schedule for your travel date. Afterward, walk approximately 20 minutes through Wieden toward Karlskirche. The church is one of Vienna’s most striking interiors, with a dramatic dome and elevated viewing access when available; allow about 45 minutes, and check the day’s closing time before setting out.

Early Evening and Dinner

Continue on foot to Naschmarkt, where an hour is enough for a relaxed browse and a few snacks rather than a full meal. The market is liveliest during daytime and early evening, while individual stalls keep different hours; Monday–Saturday is the safest assumption, and Sunday trading is limited. Try a small Austrian bite or seasonal produce, then walk a few minutes to Gasthaus Rosi in Wieden for dinner. Allow about 1½ hours and budget roughly €25–45 per person. This is a good place to settle into Vienna’s neighborhood atmosphere after the long transfer—book ahead if possible, especially for an evening meal.

Day 7 · Thu, Jun 3
Vienna

Budapest day trip from Vienna

  1. Vienna to Budapest by train — Wien Hbf to Budapest-Keleti; early morning, allow ~3 hours door-to-door each way; verify current international schedules and bring passport or accepted travel documents.
  2. Hungarian Parliament Building — Pest riverfront; morning, ~1.5 hours; advance timed-tour booking is strongly recommended.
  3. Shoes on the Danube Bank — Pest riverfront; late morning, ~30 minutes.
  4. Great Market Hall — District IX; lunch and browsing, ~1.5 hours; approximately HUF 4,000–8,000 per person.
  5. Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion — Castle District; afternoon, ~2.5 hours.
  6. Budapest to Vienna by train — Budapest-Keleti to Wien Hbf; evening, allow ~3 hours plus final transfer to accommodation.

Early Morning — Vienna to Budapest

Take an early Railjet or EuroCity from Wien Hauptbahnhof to Budapest-Keleti, allowing about three hours door to door, including getting from your hotel to the station and a sensible boarding buffer. Trains usually take around 2½ hours, but international connections and the final transfer can stretch the journey. Check the 2027 timetable shortly before travel and carry your passport or other accepted travel document. From Keleti, take the M2 metro toward the center or a licensed taxi; use a contactless bank card or purchase a validated ticket before boarding.

Morning and Late Morning — Parliament and the Danube

Go first to the Hungarian Parliament Building on the Pest riverfront for your timed tour, allowing about 1½ hours including security. Advance booking is strongly recommended, as English-language visits can sell out; arrive at least 15–20 minutes early at the visitor entrance on Constitution Street. Afterwards, walk south along the riverside to Shoes on the Danube Bank, the understated memorial along Id. Antall József rakpart. Give it around 30 minutes, and keep the atmosphere respectful—this is a place for quiet reflection rather than a quick photo stop.

Lunch and Afternoon Exploring

Continue toward the Great Market Hall in District IX, roughly 25 minutes on foot or a short tram ride away. Browse the produce, paprika, sausages, and handmade goods before stopping for lunch; budget about HUF 4,000–8,000 per person, though sit-down choices and drinks can push that higher. The upper level is useful for a casual bite, but quality and opening hours vary, so treat it as a flexible lunch stop rather than a must-have food experience.

After lunch, cross to Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion by taxi or public transport—allow around 25–35 minutes depending on traffic—or walk up through the Castle District if you want the approach on foot. Spend about 2½ hours wandering the courtyards and viewpoints, especially around Fisherman’s Bastion, where the late-afternoon light opens across the Danube toward Parliament. The bastion’s terraces have both free and ticketed sections; check the current access policy on the day, and wear comfortable shoes on the steep, uneven streets.

Evening — Return to Vienna

Head back to Budapest-Keleti with plenty of margin for the evening train: leave the Castle District roughly 45–60 minutes before you would normally need to be at the station, allowing for traffic and station navigation. Take the next suitable Railjet or EuroCity to Wien Hauptbahnhof, allowing about three hours including boarding and your final transfer to the hotel. If you arrive before dinner, keep the evening simple near your accommodation—this is a long day, and the international return journey is more tiring than the timetable suggests.

Day 8 · Fri, Jun 4
Zagreb

Zagreb gateway to Croatia

Getting there from Vienna
Direct FlixBus, approximately 5.5–6.5 hours, €30–55. Take a morning departure around 07:00–08:00 to reach Zagreb mid-afternoon; book on flixbus.com. Verify the 2027 timetable.
Train connections via Graz, roughly 7–9 hours, €45–80; book on oebb.at and hzpp.hr. Coach is generally more practical.
  1. Vienna to Zagreb by train or coach — Vienna city center to Zagreb; morning, allow ~6–8 hours door-to-door; confirm the seasonal timetable before booking.
  2. Ban Jelačić Square — Lower Town; late afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  3. Dolac Market — Upper edge of Lower Town; late afternoon, ~45 minutes, subject to market hours.
  4. Zagreb Cathedral — Kaptol; early evening, ~45 minutes; access may vary with restoration.
  5. Tkalčićeva Street — Upper Town edge; evening, ~1 hour for cafés and bars.
  6. Vinodol — Lower Town; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €20–35 per person.

Morning — Vienna to Zagreb

Take the first practical direct coach from central Vienna to Zagreb, ideally around 07:00–08:00. Allow 6–8 hours door-to-door, including getting to the departure terminal, a boarding buffer, traffic at the border, and the transfer from Zagreb Bus Station to your hotel. The coach is usually more straightforward than the train via Graz; check the 2027 timetable and luggage rules before booking. After checking in, take a short tram or taxi into the Lower Town and keep the afternoon deliberately easy.

Late Afternoon — Lower Town

Begin at Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb’s central meeting point, and spend about 45 minutes getting your bearings around the statue, arcades, and surrounding streets. From the square, walk uphill for a few minutes to Dolac Market. It is most lively in the morning, so by late afternoon expect a quieter, partly closed market rather than a full produce hall; treat it as a quick local orientation and check the current hours before relying on it. Continue toward Zagreb Cathedral in Kaptol, allowing around 45 minutes. Exterior viewing may be the main experience because restoration and religious services can affect interior access—dress respectfully and check the latest visitor information.

Evening — Tkalčićeva and Dinner

Walk down toward Tkalčićeva Street, a colorful pedestrian lane lined with cafés and bars. This is a good place to pause for a drink and watch Zagreb’s after-work crowd rather than rushing through another monument; allow about an hour. For dinner, head to Vinodol in the Lower Town, roughly a 10–15-minute walk away. Reserve if possible, particularly on a Friday, and budget about €20–35 per person for a substantial meal. Afterward, keep the evening nearby—Zagreb is especially pleasant once the day-trippers have gone and the café terraces begin to fill.

Day 9 · Sat, Jun 5
Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes base

Getting there from Zagreb
Direct Arriva or FlixBus to Plitvička Jezera, about 2.5–3.5 hours, €15–25. Depart around 06:00–07:00 for an early park arrival; book on arriva.com.hr or flixbus.com.
  1. Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes — Direct bus or private transfer; early morning, allow ~2.5–3.5 hours including park-entry logistics.
  2. Plitvice Lakes National Park, Entrance 1 — Lower Lakes; late morning, ~3 hours on a shorter walking route.
  3. Veliki Slap — Lower Lakes; midday, ~30 minutes.
  4. Electric boat and panoramic train — National park route; afternoon, ~1.5 hours, included on selected trails; reserve park entry for the desired entrance and arrival window.
  5. Traditional restaurant near Plitvice — Park vicinity; dinner, ~1 hour; approximately €20–35 per person.

Early Morning — Zagreb to Plitvice

Take an early Arriva or FlixBus from Zagreb Bus Station to Plitvička Jezera, ideally around 06:00–07:00. Allow 2½–3½ hours door to door, including getting to the station, a boarding buffer, and the possibility of traffic. If you have luggage, confirm whether your accommodation near the park will accept bags before check-in; otherwise, use the staffed luggage storage where available at the entrance or bus stop. Buy your Plitvice Lakes National Park entry for Entrance 1 and a timed arrival window in advance—Saturday is a busy day, and entry availability can control the whole morning.

Late Morning — Lower Lakes

From Entrance 1, follow the shorter Lower Lakes route, allowing about three hours at an easy pace. The paths lead through the limestone gorge beside vivid turquoise water, with boardwalk sections that can be damp and uneven; wear shoes with decent grip and bring water. Make Veliki Slap your main viewpoint around midday, allowing roughly 30 minutes for the walk, photographs, and the return connection. There are food stands near the entrance, but they are more convenient than memorable, so a packed sandwich is worth carrying.

Afternoon — Water and Forest Connections

Continue with the park’s electric boat and panoramic train, allowing about 1½ hours including waits. These rides are included on the relevant selected trails, but queues can build even with a timed park entry, particularly on a Saturday; keep your ticket handy and follow the staff’s route instructions rather than assuming every departure serves the same stop. Afterward, collect your luggage and walk or take a short local transfer to your accommodation near Plitvička Jezera. The village is spread along the main road, so avoid planning a long walk with bags.

Evening — Dinner Near the Park

Have an early, relaxed dinner at Restaurant Degenija in Selište Drežničko, about a 10-minute drive from the park, or ask your guesthouse to arrange a taxi. It is a good place for grilled trout, veal, and other hearty regional dishes; expect approximately €20–35 per person. Book or call ahead if possible, since restaurants near the park fill quickly after the tour buses return. Keep the evening quiet—tomorrow’s bus to Zadar is much more enjoyable if you are rested.

Day 10 · Sun, Jun 6
Zadar

Zadar and the Dalmatian coast

Getting there from Plitvice Lakes
Direct bus with Arriva, about 1.5–2.5 hours, €15–25. Depart late morning after breakfast, checking the stop at Entrance 1 or Entrance 2; book on arriva.com.hr.
Private transfer, about 1.5–2 hours, roughly €120–180 per vehicle; arrange through your accommodation or a local transfer company.
  1. Plitvice Lakes to Zadar — Bus or private transfer; morning, allow ~2–3 hours door-to-door.
  2. Roman Forum and Church of St. Donatus — Zadar Old Town; late morning, ~1 hour.
  3. Sea Organ — Waterfront; midday, ~30 minutes.
  4. Greeting to the Sun — Riva promenade; afternoon, ~30 minutes.
  5. Kolovare Beach — Southeast waterfront; late afternoon, ~1.5 hours for a swim or coastal break.
  6. Pet Bunara — Old Town; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €25–45 per person.

Morning — Plitvice Lakes to Zadar

After breakfast, take a late-morning Arriva bus from Plitvička Jezera to Zadar, allowing roughly 2–3 hours door to door. Check your ticket carefully for the departure stop—services may use Entrance 1 or Entrance 2—and arrive 20–30 minutes early, especially with luggage. A private transfer is more comfortable and usually takes around 1½–2 hours, but costs approximately €120–180 per vehicle. On arrival, leave bags at your accommodation or a luggage-storage point near the bus station, then walk or take a short taxi into the Old Town.

Begin with the Roman Forum and Church of St. Donatus, allowing about an hour. The forum is best appreciated as an open archaeological space rather than a single formal site, while the round Church of St. Donatus is the unmistakable centerpiece. Opening hours and interior access can vary, so treat the church visit as conditional and check locally; combined or separate admission is generally modest, around €3–5. From here, it is only a few minutes through the narrow lanes to the waterfront and the Sea Organ. Spend half an hour listening to the pipes played by the movement of the Adriatic—late morning is a good time before the promenade becomes busiest.

Afternoon — Riva and the Coast

Continue along the Riva promenade to the Greeting to the Sun, where the glass panels are quiet and reflective by day but come alive after dark. Allow about 30 minutes, then walk or take a short taxi east toward Kolovare Beach. This is a useful break after the morning’s travel: bring swimwear, water shoes, and a towel, as the shoreline is pebbly rather than sandy. Allow around 1½ hours for a swim and an unhurried coastal pause; beach facilities and seasonal cafés can vary, so buy water and snacks before leaving the Old Town.

Evening — Dinner in the Old Town

Return to the historic center for dinner at Pet Bunara, a long-established restaurant known for Dalmatian ingredients, seafood, and regional wines. Reserve if possible, particularly on a summer weekend, and budget approximately €25–45 per person before drinks. Afterward, leave time for a slow walk through the lanes near Narodni trg and the waterfront—the city is especially atmospheric after the day-trippers have departed.

Day 11 · Mon, Jun 7
Šibenik

Šibenik and Krka National Park

Getting there from Zadar
Direct Arriva bus, about 1.5–2 hours, €10–18. Depart around 08:00–09:00 from Zadar bus station; book on arriva.com.hr or getbybus.com.
Rental car via the A1, about 1 hour 15 minutes, approximately €35–70 per day plus fuel and tolls; book through a comparison site such as Rentalcars.com.
  1. Zadar to Šibenik — Bus or private transfer; morning, allow ~1.5–2 hours including hotel checkout and arrival.
  2. St. James Cathedral — Šibenik Old Town; late morning, ~1 hour.
  3. Šibenik Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden — Old Town; midday, ~45 minutes.
  4. Krka National Park, Skradinski buk — Lozovac or Skradin entrance; afternoon, ~3 hours; reserve park entry and check boat or shuttle operations.
  5. Konoba Providenca — Šibenik Old Town; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €25–45 per person.

Morning

Check out in Zadar early and take the morning bus to Šibenik, allowing about 1½–2 hours door to door with the walk to the bus station and a little waiting time. After leaving your bags at your Šibenik accommodation—most places will store them before check-in—walk into the old town for St. James Cathedral. Give it about an hour to appreciate the remarkable stone construction and the carved heads around the exterior; modest clothing is appropriate, and opening arrangements can vary if services are taking place.

Late Morning and Afternoon

Continue on foot through the narrow lanes to the Šibenik Medieval Monastery Mediterranean Garden, a peaceful little pause in the old town with medicinal and culinary plants arranged around the restored monastery setting. Allow roughly 45 minutes, then have a light lunch nearby before heading to Krka National Park for Skradinski buk. A taxi or pre-arranged transfer is the smoothest option today: allow around 30 minutes each way from central Šibenik, depending on whether you use the Lozovac or Skradin entrance. Reserve park admission in advance, particularly in summer, and check the official schedule for the park shuttle or boat before leaving; services and swimming rules can change seasonally. Plan about three hours for the boardwalks and falls, with comfortable shoes and water—the exposed sections can feel hot even when the air is mild.

Evening

Return to Šibenik and settle in at Konoba Providenca, where the terrace and elevated views make it a particularly good dinner choice after the national park. Expect around €25–45 per person depending on seafood, grilled dishes, and wine; booking is sensible in the evening. The old town is compact, so you can walk from the restaurant back to your accommodation, but keep a little time for an unhurried stroll along the stone lanes after dinner rather than trying to add another attraction.

Day 12 · Tue, Jun 8
Split

Split historic center

Getting there from Šibenik
Direct Arriva bus, about 1.5–2 hours, €10–18. Morning departures fit the planned Split sightseeing; book on arriva.com.hr or getbybus.com.
Rental car via the D8/A1, about 1 hour 15 minutes, €35–70 per day plus fuel and tolls.
  1. Šibenik to Split — Bus or private transfer; morning, allow ~1.5–2 hours door-to-door.
  2. Diocletian’s Palace — Split Old Town; late morning, ~2 hours.
  3. Cathedral of Saint Domnius and Bell Tower — Palace complex; midday, ~1 hour; allow for stairs and queues.
  4. Riva Promenade — Waterfront; afternoon, ~45 minutes.
  5. Marjan Hill viewpoint — Marjan; late afternoon, ~1.5 hours by taxi and walking.
  6. Konoba Fetivi — Varoš; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €25–45 per person.

Morning — Šibenik to Split

Take a morning Arriva bus from Šibenik to Split, allowing 1½–2 hours door to door with the walk to the station and a small boarding buffer. If you are carrying luggage, leave it at your Split accommodation or use a station locker before heading into the center. The bus station is right beside the ferry port, so from there it is only a few minutes’ walk to Diocletian’s Palace.

Late Morning — Diocletian’s Palace

Spend about two hours wandering the palace complex, entering through the Bronze Gate from the waterfront and working inland through the narrow lanes around the Peristyle. This is best enjoyed without trying to identify every Roman remnant: look for fragments of columns built into later houses, the cellar passages, and the busy little squares where residents still live above cafés and shops. The palace area is free to explore, while the cellars and some interiors charge separate admission; bring small cash, and expect polished stone, uneven steps, and crowds around the Peristyle.

Continue to the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and Bell Tower for roughly an hour. The cathedral itself is compact, but the bell-tower climb is the main event, with steep stairs and exposed sections near the top—skip it if heights or cramped stairways are a concern. Entry arrangements and hours can change around religious services, so check locally and allow time for a queue rather than booking the rest of the day too tightly.

Afternoon and Evening — Waterfront, Marjan, and Dinner

Walk out to the Riva Promenade for a relaxed 45-minute break, preferably choosing a shaded table away from the busiest waterfront restaurants. Afterward, take a taxi toward Marjan Hill—the uphill walk from the center is possible, but a taxi preserves your energy for the viewpoints and pine-scented paths. Allow about 1½ hours to stroll toward Telegrin viewpoint or one of the lower lookout terraces; late afternoon gives the best light over the islands, though wear proper shoes and carry water.

Return to Varoš for dinner at Konoba Fetivi, a well-regarded traditional spot known for Dalmatian seafood and grilled dishes. Reserve if possible, particularly in June, and budget approximately €25–45 per person before drinks. Order whatever local fish is available, or choose a simple seafood or meat dish with blitva; after dinner, the quiet lanes around Varoš make a pleasant final wander before returning to your accommodation.

Day 13 · Wed, Jun 9
Hvar

Hvar Island stay

Getting there from Split
Jadrolinija or TP Line catamaran from Split ferry port to Hvar Town, about 1 hour, €20–35. Take a morning sailing and arrive at least 30–45 minutes early; book on jadrolinija.hr or tp-line.hr.
  1. Split to Hvar by catamaran — Split ferry port to Hvar Town; morning, allow ~2–3 hours including port arrival and luggage; book the sailing in advance.
  2. Hvar Town Loggia and St. Stephen’s Square — Hvar Town; late morning, ~1 hour.
  3. Franciscan Monastery — Hvar waterfront; midday, ~45 minutes.
  4. Fortica Fortress — Above Hvar Town; afternoon, ~1.5 hours for the climb and views.
  5. Hula Hula Hvar — Western waterfront; sunset, ~1.5 hours for a relaxed drink.
  6. Dalmatino — Hvar Town; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €30–50 per person.

Morning — Split to Hvar

Take a pre-booked morning catamaran from Split Ferry Port to Hvar Town, allowing about 2–3 hours door to door with the walk to the port, luggage, boarding queue, and disembarkation. Arrive 30–45 minutes early; seats are assigned or limited depending on the operator, and summer sailings can sell out. Once in Hvar Town, leave your bags at the accommodation if the room is not ready, then walk uphill into the historic center for Hvar Town Loggia and St. Stephen’s Square. Allow about an hour to admire the Venetian façades and absorb the lively café atmosphere without rushing.

Midday and Afternoon

Continue down toward the waterfront to the Franciscan Monastery, a peaceful stop with a shaded cloister and a notable collection of religious art; allow around 45 minutes, checking the current visiting hours as they can vary seasonally. For lunch, choose a simple seafood plate or grilled dish along the harbor rather than committing to a long meal—the best views are pleasant, but prices are higher than in the back streets. Later, climb to Fortica Fortress via the stone paths above town. The ascent takes roughly 20–30 minutes, with uneven steps and little shade, so carry water and wear proper shoes; allow about 1½ hours for the climb, ramparts, and wide views over the Pakleni Islands. A taxi can save energy on the way up, but walking down is straightforward.

Sunset and Dinner

Head west along the waterfront to Hula Hula Hvar for a relaxed sunset drink, arriving 30–45 minutes before sunset if you want a good spot. It is more about the setting, music, and first drink than a quiet dinner, so keep the stop to about 1½ hours. Finish at Dalmatino in Hvar Town, a popular choice for grilled fish, seafood, and Croatian specialties; reserve ahead for dinner, particularly in June. Expect approximately €30–50 per person before substantial drinks. Afterward, the center is compact and easy to explore on foot, though the polished stone streets become slippery—flat shoes are much safer than sandals with smooth soles.

Day 14 · Thu, Jun 10
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik old town

Getting there from Hvar
Direct TP Line or Kapetan Luka catamaran, about 3.5–4.5 hours, €45–ек70. Take the earliest available morning sailing; book on tp-line.hr or krilo.hr. Services are seasonal, so confirm the 2027 timetable.
Catamaran to Split, then bus to Dubrovnik: roughly 6–8 hours total, about €45–75. Use only if direct sailings are unavailable.
  1. Hvar to Dubrovnik by catamaran — Hvar Town to Dubrovnik; morning, allow ~4–5 hours including port arrival and disembarkation; reserve seats in advance.
  2. Pile Gate and Stradun — Dubrovnik Old Town; afternoon, ~1 hour.
  3. Rector’s Palace — Old Town; mid-afternoon, ~1 hour.
  4. Dubrovnik City Walls — Old Town perimeter; late afternoon, ~2 hours; purchase or reserve admission and avoid the hottest period.
  5. Buza Bar — Outside the western sea wall; sunset, ~1 hour.
  6. Proto — Old Town; dinner, ~1.5 hours; approximately €35–60 per person.

Morning — Hvar to Dubrovnik

Take the earliest direct catamaran from Hvar Town to Dubrovnik, allowing roughly 4–5 hours door to door with the walk to the harbor, luggage, boarding queue, and disembarkation. Reserve seats in advance through TP Line or Kapetan Luka and check the 2027 timetable shortly before travel, since this route is seasonal. On arrival, leave luggage at your accommodation or use a storage service near the port; the walk or local bus to the Old Town takes about 15–25 minutes, depending on where you stay.

Afternoon — Old Town

Enter through Pile Gate and follow Stradun eastward, taking about an hour to absorb the limestone-paved main street and its side lanes. Continue to Rector’s Palace, where an hour is enough for the elegant courtyard, state rooms, and compact museum collection. Admission is generally around €15–20, though ticket combinations with the walls can offer better value; check the official Dubrovnik Museums information before going, as hours and prices can change.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Walk the Dubrovnik City Walls in the late afternoon, when the light softens and the western-facing sections are less punishing than at midday. Allow about two hours, bring water, and expect many stairs; admission is commonly around €35, with advance purchase or a combined ticket sometimes available. Finish at Buza Bar, reached through a small opening in the western sea wall, for a drink above the rocks—arrive before sunset if you want one of the best cliffside tables. For dinner, reserve Proto in advance and allow about 1½ hours; its seafood-focused menu typically runs roughly €35–60 per person.

Day 15 · Fri, Jun 11
Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik departure

  1. Mount Srđ cable car — Above Dubrovnik; morning, ~1.5 hours, subject to operating conditions.
  2. War Photo Limited — Old Town; late morning, ~1 hour.
  3. Gundulić Square Market — Old Town; midday, ~45 minutes, subject to market schedule.
  4. Banje Beach — East of Ploče Gate; early afternoon, ~1.5 hours for a final swim.
  5. Dubrovnik Airport transfer — Old Town or hotel to Dubrovnik Airport; allow ~45–75 minutes plus check-in and security, departing according to flight requirements.

Morning

Start with the Mount Srđ cable car, going as early as practical while visibility is usually clearest and the Old Town is still relatively quiet. From the Ploče Gate area, walk to the lower station in about 10 minutes; the ride takes only a few minutes, but allow around 1½ hours overall for queues, the summit viewpoints, and photographs. A return ticket is typically around €15–€25, and service can pause in strong wind or poor weather, so check the official operating status before leaving. If the cable car is not running, do not try to force the timing with a taxi unless the views are genuinely worthwhile—your airport transfer is the day’s fixed priority.

Return toward the Old Town for War Photo Limited, a compact, powerful photography museum on Antuninska Street. Allow about an hour and expect difficult subject matter rather than a light final-day attraction; it is best treated as a focused visit before lunch. Continue down toward Gundulić Square Market, where the morning produce stalls are the main draw. Spend roughly 45 minutes browsing seasonal fruit, dried figs, local sweets, and small edible gifts. The market is generally a morning activity and may be reduced or absent outside its usual schedule, so check locally; don’t count on it as a full lunch stop.

Afternoon and Departure

Have a simple lunch near the eastern side of the Old Town, then walk through Ploče Gate to Banje Beach for your final swim. Allow about 1½ hours, keeping valuables to a minimum and using a staffed locker or your hotel for passports and electronics. The beach is convenient but can be busy and relatively expensive for drinks; bring water, or buy it before arriving. A short swim and a final view back toward the walls is more realistic than settling in for a long beach afternoon.

Collect your luggage and allow roughly 45–75 minutes from the Old Town or your hotel to Dubrovnik Airport, depending on traffic and whether your transfer is shared or private. A pre-booked taxi or hotel-arranged transfer is the least stressful option; the airport is south of the city beyond Čilipi, and traffic around the Old Town access roads can be slow. Leave according to your airline’s international check-in recommendation, adding extra time for a checked bag and security. If your flight is late enough to leave a comfortable margin, keep the beach visit short and return to your hotel well before the transfer window rather than risking a rushed departure.

Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version