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Romantic Adventure on a Shoestring: Exploring Rome and Croatia

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Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Rome, Italy

9:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive in Rome and settle into your budget-friendly hostel in the Trastevere neighborhood, known for its charming cobblestone streets.
Take a local taxi or bus from the airport to Trastevere.
EUR50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Breakfast at Bar San Calisto

Enjoy a classic Italian breakfast of cappuccino and cornetto at this local bakery that is light on the wallet.
Walk 5 minutes to the nearby café.
EUR5, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Trastevere

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Trastevere and visit the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church.
Walk through the nearby streets.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Baffetto

Indulge in a delicious pizza known for its authentic thin-crust style in the heart of Rome.
Take a short bus ride across the river.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Colosseum

Marvel at the ancient architecture of the Colosseum, one of Rome's most iconic landmarks.
Walk to the Colosseum, about 15 minutes away.
EUR16, 2 hours

4:00PM

Roman Forum and Palatine Hill

Explore the historic ruins of the Roman Forum and the scenic Palatine Hill, enriching your knowledge of ancient Roman history.
Use the same ticket as the Colosseum, just walk to the Forum.
Included in Colosseum ticket, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Carbonara

Savor traditional Roman pasta dishes, such as Carbonara, in this cozy and affordable eatery.
Take a bus back to Trastevere.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Historical Highlights in Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at La Casa del Caffè Tazza d'Oro

Get your caffeine fix with their famous granita di caffè, a refreshing choice on a beautiful Roman morning.
Take a tram or walk 20 minutes.
EUR6, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Vatican City

Tour the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter's Basilica to witness unparalleled art and architecture.
Walk towards Vatican City, about 30 minutes from the café.
EUR17, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Caffè Propaganda

Enjoy a budget-friendly lunch of classic Italian salads and sandwiches in a trendy atmosphere.
Walk back to the center of Rome, about 15 minutes.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Piazza Navona & Pantheon

Visit the stunning Piazza Navona and marvel at the intricate Pantheon before taking in the lively street atmosphere.
Walk to the Pantheon, around 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Trevi Fountain

Toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain and snap some unforgettable honeymoon photos.
A brief 10-minute stroll will take you there.
Free, 30 minutes

4:00PM

Explore the Spanish Steps

Climb the famous Spanish Steps, an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a gelato while people-watching.
It’s a 10-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Dine on freshly made pasta dishes at this local favorite, perfect for maintaining that budget-friendly vibe.
Walk back towards the main areas, about 20 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and Culture in Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Start your day with a local pastry like a maritozzo, a sweet cream-filled bun, paired with a coffee.
Walk 15 minutes to reach this establishment.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Borghese Gallery

Explore an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, including works by Caravaggio and Bernini.
Walk across the beautiful gardens of Villa Borghese, about 20 minutes.
EUR13, 2 hours

11:00AM

Relax in Villa Borghese Gardens

Take a leisurely walk or have a romantic picnic in the lush gardens surrounding the gallery.
Just head out of the gallery.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pizzeria Da Michele

Enjoy a taste of Naples in Rome with a classic Margherita pizza at this loved local spot.
Take a bus back to the city center.
EUR8, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Campo de' Fiori

Visit the lively market during the day and experience local goods and fresh produce.
A quick 10-minute walk will lead you there.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Catacombs of San Callisto

Take a guided tour to explore the underground burial sites and learn about early Christian history.
Catch a bus from Campo de' Fiori for ease.
EUR8, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Il Boccone

Finish off the day with a simple yet hearty Italian meal featuring local delicacies.
Take a bus back towards your accommodation.
EUR13, 2 hours
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Day 4: From Rome to Split

Split, Croatia

6:00AM

Breakfast at Hostel

Start your day early with a simple breakfast at your hostel before checking out.
Enjoy the provided breakfast options.
EUR5, 1 hour

7:00AM

Fly to Split

Transfer to the airport and catch a morning flight to Split for stunning coastal views.
Take a taxi or shared shuttle for cost-effectiveness.
EUR60 (including shuttle), 2 hours

9:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive in Split and check into your budget accommodation near the central area.
Walk from the airport shuttle drop-off point.
EUR50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Breakfast at Café Svičnjak

Enjoy a breakfast of fresh pastries or typical Croatian bread at this local café.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR7, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tour Diocletian's Palace

Dive into history by exploring the well-preserved Diocletian's Palace, where ancient Roman architecture meets vibrant modern life.
Walk to the palace entrance.
EUR8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fife

Savor local dishes like peka or grilled fish while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
15-minute walk from the palace.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Relax at Bačvice Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Bačvice Beach, known for its scenic views and clear waters.
Take a short bus ride to Bačvice.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Konoba Matejuska

Indulge in fresh seafood dishes for a taste of the Adriatic at this quaint seaside tavern.
Short bus ride or 20-minute walk.
EUR15, 2 hours
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Day 5: Island Hopping to Hvar

Hvar, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a light breakfast at your accommodation before heading out for the day.
Provided by your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Hvar

Take an early ferry from Split to the stunning island of Hvar, known for its crystal-clear waters.
Walk to the ferry terminal in Split.
EUR25, 1 hour (ferry ride)

10:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your budget accommodation in Hvar Town, ready for an exciting day ahead.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
EUR50, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Breakfast at Hvar's Town Bakery

Grab a quick bite of local pastries or a sandwich to fuel your adventure.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR6, 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore Hvar Town

Wander around Hvar Town's charming streets, quaint shops, and beautiful waterfront.
Explore on foot.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Malu' Wine Bar

Taste local Croatian wines and light bites like bruschettas or cheese platters over stunning views.
Short walk back towards the town center.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Fortica Fortress

Hike up to the ancient Spanish Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views over the Adriatic Sea.
Walk up the hill from town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Restaurant DiVino

Enjoy fine dining with farm-to-table dishes, giving you a taste of Hvar's local flavor.
Short stroll from Fortica.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 6: Exploring the Beauty of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Hvar before heading to Dubrovnik.
Provided by your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Ferry to Dubrovnik

Take a scenic ferry ride from Hvar to Dubrovnik, arriving at the stunning walled city.
Walk to the ferry terminal.
EUR30, 2 hours (including travel time)

11:00AM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your budget accommodation in the Old Town of Dubrovnik.
Walk from the ferry terminal.
EUR50, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Lokanda Peskarija

Feast on fresh seafood at this bustling eatery right by the waterfront.
Located in the Old Town, just a short walk away.
EUR15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Wander the Old Town

Explore the stunning marble streets, vibrant shops, and historical landmarks of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
On foot, easy to navigate.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk the City Walls

Experience the incredible views of the city and coastline while trekking the iconic city walls.
Entrance located near the Pile Gate.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Coffee break at Café Dubrovnik

Recharge with a coffee while enjoying the view of the Old Town from this charming café.
Short walk from the city walls.
EUR5, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Taj Mahal

End the day with delicious Bosnian cuisine, featuring unique dishes that will leave lasting memories.
Walk back towards the Old Town for dinner.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Dubrovnik

Day 7: Last Days of Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your accommodation before the day begins.
Provided by your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Lovrijenac Fortress

Explore this impressive fortress offering stunning views of the Old Town and the coastline.
A short walk from your accommodation to the fortress.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Cable Car Ride to Mt. Srđ

Take the cable car for breathtaking views of the city below – a perfect photo opportunity!
Walk to the cable car station.
EUR20, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Restaurant Panorama

Dine overlooking Dubrovnik while indulging in local Dalmatian cuisine.
Located at the top of Mt. Srđ.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Free Afternoon

Spend the afternoon relaxing at a local beach or enjoying additional sightseeing, exploring at your leisure.
Walk to the selected beach or local points of interest.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Nautika

Treat yourselves to an elegant dinner at this high-end restaurant offering exquisite seafood, a culinary highlight of your trip.
Walk back to Old Town.
EUR40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Dubrovnik

Day 8: Transfer to Zadar

Zadar, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy breakfast before checking out of your accommodation in Dubrovnik.
Enjoy the provided breakfast options.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Bus to Zadar

Travel to Zadar by bus, allowing for picturesque views of Croatia's countryside.
Board the bus from Dubrovnik's main bus station.
EUR25, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check into Accommodation

Arrive in Zadar and check into a budget-friendly accommodation.
Short walk from the bus station to the accommodation.
EUR50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lunch at Restaurant 2Ribara

Delight in fresh seafood dishes featuring local ingredients at this cozy spot.
Short walk from your accommodation.
EUR12, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Zadar's Old Town

Discover the historic buildings, vibrant culture, and the famous Sea Organ's mesmerizing sound.
Explore on foot throughout Old Town.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Pet Bunara

End your day with a hearty meal featuring local recipes and flavors, a perfect way to wrap up your time in Zadar.
Walk through the Old Town to reach this restaurant.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Last Day in Croatia

Zadar, Croatia

8:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Enjoy breakfast at your accommodation in Zadar, preparing for your day ahead.
Provided by your accommodation.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Zadar's Museum of Ancient Glass

Explore this unique museum showcasing glass artifacts dating back to the Roman period.
Short walk to the museum.
EUR6, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Forum and St. Donatus Church

Visit the ancient Roman Forum and the 9th-century St. Donatus Church, historical gems in Zadar.
Right next to the Museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Bistro Gourmet

Savor modern Croatian cuisine featuring regional specialities at this trendy bistro.
A short walk through the Old Town will take you there.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Relax at Kolovare Beach

Spend your last afternoon soaking up sun and dipping your toes in the sea at Kolovare Beach.
Short bus ride or a long walk to the beach.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant Konoba Stari Grad

Enjoy your final dinner in Croatia, indulging in local pizza and pasta while reminiscing about your journey.
Return back towards your accommodation.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Zadar

Day 10: Return to Rome

Rome, Italy

6:00AM

Breakfast at Accommodation

Have a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before making your way to the bus station.
Enjoy the provided options.
EUR5, 1 hour

7:00AM

Bus to Zadar Airport

Catch an early bus to Zadar Airport for your return flight to Rome.
Board the bus from Zadar’s main bus station.
EUR10, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Flight to Rome

Catch your return flight, concluding your memorable trip filled with exploration and love.
Flight duration approximately 1 hour.
EUR40, 2 hours (including wait)

10:00AM

Arrive in Rome

Arrive back in Rome, allowing time to enjoy your last day in the city or catch the flight back home.
Take a taxi or public transport to your next destination.
EUR30, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Rome
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