Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, is a vibrant city with a mix of old and modern architecture. Take a stroll through the picturesque old town, visit the St. Mark's Church and Museum of Broken Relationships, and try some traditional Croatian dishes in one of the many restaurants.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its breathtaking waterfalls and turquoise lakes. Explore the various trails and enjoy the scenery. Don't forget to bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera!
Split is a charming coastal town with a rich history. Visit the Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the narrow streets of the old town. Take a stroll along the Riva Promenade and admire the sea view.
Hvar is a picturesque island with a laid-back vibe. Visit the Fortress Fortica for amazing views of the town and the sea, and take a swim in one of the secluded coves. Enjoy a cocktail in one of the beach bars and watch the sunset.
Šibenik is a hidden gem on the Adriatic coast. Visit the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, which was built entirely of stone in the 15th century. Take a walk through the old town and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.
Zadar is a historic city with a lively modern waterfront. Visit the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation, two unique attractions that use solar energy to create music and light. Take a walk along the promenade and try some local seafood.
Dubrovnik, also known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic", is a must-see destination in Croatia. Walk the ancient walls of the old town, visit the Franciscan Monastery, and take a cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for stunning panoramic views.
For this road trip, renting a car is the most convenient option to get around Croatia. The estimated cost for a 7-day rental is around $200 USD. Ferry tickets for the Hvar route are approximately 100 HRK (around $16 USD) per person for a one-way trip. Be sure to check the ferry schedule beforehand and book in advance during peak season.
If you have more time, consider adding a visit to the island of Vis for its beautiful beaches and charming towns. For those interested in history, a visit to the city of Pula and its famous Roman Amphitheater is worth adding to the itinerary.
If you have less time, consider skipping Hvar and spending more time in Split or Dubrovnik. Alternatively, you can skip Plitvice Lakes National Park and spend more time exploring Zagreb.
The main international airport in Croatia is Zagreb Airport (ZAG), which is located about 10 miles from the city center. Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and Split Airport (SPU) are also popular entry points for visitors. Both airports are located within 20 miles from the city centers of Dubrovnik and Split, respectively.