Begin your Croatian adventure in the charming city of Dubrovnik. Nicknamed "the Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik is a historic city filled with impenetrable walls, cobbled streets, and Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Walk along the city walls to enjoy the stunning views of the red-roofs, the sea, and the islands. Make sure to visit the Old Town, The Rector's Palace, and the Lovrijenac Fortress.
Spend the day on the island of Hvar, famous for its lavender fields, wonderful beaches, and crystal clear waters. Start at the port of Hvar and wander through the old town's alleys and imposing fortresses. Visit the Franciscan monastery and Museum of Hvar, explore the intricate lacework, and go on a walk to the fortress for jaw-dropping views of the town and the sea. Finally, relax on Palmizana bay, a hidden gem beach with turquoise shallow waters.
After breakfast, head to Split, the buzzing second-largest Croatian city. The highlight of the town is the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's Palace, a 1700-year-old Roman monument. Filled with bars, shops, and restaurants, the palace is a vibrant hub of activity. Stroll the Riva promenade, visit the Cathedral of St. Domnius, climb the Bell Tower of St. Duje, and explore the Peristil Square. Take a relaxing walk through the green oasis, Marjan Forest Park and enjoy a dip in the sea at the Kašjuni beach.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is one of the most spectacular natural sights in Croatia. Home to 16 interconnected lakes cascading into each other, the park offers enchanting walks through the waterside wooden paths and hikes to panoramic viewpoints. The park has numerous waterfalls, lush vegetation, and a variety of wildlife. The park can be crowded in summer, so arrive early to avoid the masses.
Drive to the Croatian capital, Zagreb. It's a charming fusion of Eastern and Western Europe and has a rich cultural heritage. Start your journey by exploring the Upper Town, which features the medieval atmosphere of the Gradec and Kaptol neighborhoods, including St. Mark's Square, Stone Gate, and Zagreb Cathedral. Then proceed to the Lower town, which features lively streets filled with shops, bars, restaurants, and art galleries. Finally, take a relaxing walk through the Maksimir Park forest.
Next head to Rovinj, which is among the most picturesque Istrian coastal town. The town sits atop a hill jutting into the Adriatic Sea and features a labyrinth of steep, cobbled streets and small squares packed with a colorful history that dates back to Venetian times. Visit the St. Euphemia church, the Rovinj Heritage Museum, and the Balbi Arch. Take a boat trip to the external islands, enjoy, swim, and visit the St. Andrew or St. Catherine island.
End your trip in Pula, a sight of a well-preserved ancient Roman amphitheater that is the sixth-largest in the world, slightly smaller than the famous Colosseum in Rome. Explore the bustling port city's winding streets, admire the city gates, visit the Forum and the Temple of Augustus, and walk through the maze of the Venetian old town alleys. Then, wind down at the Verudela Beach.
You can rent a car or use public transportation to get around Croatia. Buses and ferries connect the country's islands, popular cities, and nearby countries. Taxis and ride-shares services like Uber are readily available. The cost of renting a mid-size car with insurance starts at £35 per day, and a one-way ferry ticket costs around £3.50.
If you have more than seven days, you can add Korcula island, Istria Peninsula, or Krka National park to your itinerary. Suppose you have less time, then consider visiting fewer locations. It's also important to note that summer can be too crowded in tourist hotspots.
Croatia's busiest airport is Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG) located 10 kilometres southeast of central Zagreb. Other significant international airports are Split Airport (SPU), Dubrovnik Airport (DBV), and Rijeka Airport (RJK).