5-Day Croatia Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tkalciceva Street

Start your day with a delicious and affordable breakfast at one of the cafes along Tkalciceva Street, known for its charming atmosphere and variety of food options.
Tkalciceva Street is located in the city center, easily reachable by walking from most accommodations.
10 HRK, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Zagreb Cathedral

Explore the iconic Zagreb Cathedral, a must-see attraction in the city with its stunning architecture and rich history.
A short walk from Tkalciceva Street.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Dolac Market

Head to Dolac Market for a budget-friendly lunch experience, where you can sample fresh local produce and traditional Croatian dishes.
Walking distance from Zagreb Cathedral.
50 HRK, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Upper Town

Spend the afternoon wandering through Upper Town, discovering historic landmarks, cozy cafes, and picturesque streets.
Accessible by funicular or a short walk from Dolac Market.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Vinodol

Enjoy a budget-friendly dinner at Vinodol, a traditional Croatian restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.
Located in the city center, not far from Upper Town.
80 HRK, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Zagreb

Zagreb, Croatia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Otto & Frank

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Otto & Frank, known for its delicious coffee and pastries.
Located near the city center, easily reachable by walking or public transport.
15 HRK, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Museum of Broken Relationships

Explore the unique Museum of Broken Relationships, showcasing personal stories through donated objects from past relationships.
A short walk from Otto & Frank.
40 HRK, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Mali Medo

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Mali Medo, a popular spot for traditional Croatian dishes and local beers.
Located in the city center, close to the museum.
60 HRK, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Maksimir Park

Spend the afternoon exploring Maksimir Park, the oldest public park in Zagreb, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.
Accessible by tram or a short taxi ride from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Mundoaka Street Food

Indulge in a casual dinner at Mundoaka Street Food, known for its creative and affordable dishes inspired by street food from around the world.
Located in the city center, a short walk from Maksimir Park.
70 HRK, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Start your day with breakfast at your accommodation before heading to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Take a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park, approximately 2.5 hours journey.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

Spend the day exploring the stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Follow the marked trails within the park to discover its natural beauty.
180 HRK (entrance fee), Full day

1:00PM

Lunch at Park Restaurant

Enjoy a simple lunch at one of the park's restaurants, offering panoramic views of the natural surroundings.
Choose a restaurant along your hiking route.
100 HRK, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Ethno Houses

Have dinner at one of the ethno houses near the park, where you can taste traditional Croatian cuisine in a cozy setting.
Recommended to book a table in advance at one of the local ethno houses.
120 HRK, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Discovering Zadar

Zadar, Croatia

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bruschetta

Start your day with a breakfast at Bruschetta, a popular cafe known for its delicious coffee and pastries.
Bruschetta is located in the city center, easily reachable by walking from most accommodations or public transportation.
20 HRK, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun

Explore the unique Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun installations along the Zadar waterfront, offering a blend of art and nature.
A short walk from Bruschetta towards the waterfront.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Konoba Skoblar

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Konoba Skoblar, a traditional Dalmatian restaurant offering seafood and local specialties.
Located near the waterfront, close to the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun.
70 HRK, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Zadar Old Town

Spend the afternoon wandering through the charming streets of Zadar Old Town, discovering historic landmarks and hidden gems.
Walk from the waterfront towards the Old Town area.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pet Bunara

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Pet Bunara, a cozy restaurant serving Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist.
Located in Zadar Old Town, not far from the main attractions.
100 HRK, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Exploring Split

Split, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Bokeria Kitchen & Wine, a trendy spot offering a variety of breakfast options.
Located in the heart of Split, near the Diocletian's Palace.
30 HRK, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Diocletian's Palace

Explore the historic Diocletian's Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its ancient walls and narrow streets.
Diocletian's Palace is a short walk from Bokeria Kitchen & Wine.
75 HRK, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Villa Spiza

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch at Villa Spiza, a hidden gem serving fresh seafood and homemade dishes.
Located near Diocletian's Palace, in the heart of Split.
60 HRK, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Marjan Hill

Spend the afternoon hiking or biking through Marjan Hill, a natural park offering panoramic views of Split and the Adriatic Sea.
Take a taxi or public transport to Marjan Hill from the city center.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fife

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Fife, a popular restaurant known for its authentic Dalmatian cuisine and generous portions.
Located near the city center, a short walk from Marjan Hill.
80 HRK, 1.5 hours
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