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7-Day Cultural and Coastal Exploration of Croatia

Viewed by 93 travelers

Day 1: Zagreb Arrival & Sightseeing

Zagreb, Croatia on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Vincek

Start your day with traditional Croatian pastries and excellent coffee at Vincek, a popular pastry shop open from 7:00am to 8:00pm.
HRK50, 1h0m

9:00am

Explore Zagreb Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

Stroll through the historic Upper Town to see landmarks like St. Mark's Church, the Lotrščak Tower, and the Stone Gate. This area offers beautiful architecture and insight into Croatia’s history.
Free, 2h0m

11:30am

Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships

This unique museum showcases artifacts and stories of past relationships, offering an emotional and intriguing experience unique to Zagreb.
HRK40, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Agava Restaurant

Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine with a Croatian twist, situated on Tkalčićeva Street, a lively area famous for local dining.
HRK120, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk in Maksimir Park

Relax in Maksimir Park, one of Zagreb’s oldest public parks with beautiful greenery, lakes, and a small zoo.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Coffee break at Kava Tava

Stop for a coffee and light snack at this cozy cafe known for quality brews and relaxing ambiance.
HRK30, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Didov San

Enjoy authentic Dalmatian dishes like black risotto or lamb in a rustic setting open until 10:00pm.
HRK150, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Zagreb

Day 2: Plitvice Lakes Park

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia on May 13, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at your hotel in Zagreb

Have a hearty breakfast before traveling to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Drive or take a guided tour about 2 hours south from Zagreb to reach the famous national park.
Transport approx. HRK200, 2h0m

10:00am

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

Spend the day hiking the wooden trails and bridges around the spectacular series of 16 terraced lakes and numerous waterfalls. The park is open 8:00am to 7:00pm in May.
HRK200, 5h0m

3:00pm

Lunch at Licka Kuca Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Croatian mountain cuisine in a cozy setting near the entrance of the park.
HRK100, 1h0m

4:30pm

Return to Zagreb

Travel back to Zagreb in the later afternoon.
Transport approx. HRK200, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner near hotel

Choose a light dinner at a local bistro or your hotel restaurant to rest after the day’s hike.
HRK80, 1h0m
Find Hotels in Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 3: Zadar Coastal Charm

Zadar, Croatia on May 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Baltazar

Enjoy fresh pastries and quality coffee in the heart of Zagreb before departure.
HRK40, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Zadar

Drive south along the coast to Zadar, about 3 hours journey showcasing beautiful Adriatic views.
Transport approx. HRK300, 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun

Discover the innovative Sea Organ that plays music by sea waves and the solar-powered light installation Greeting to the Sun, located on the waterfront.
Free, 1h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Pet Bunara

Dine at Pet Bunara, known for fresh Dalmatian dishes emphasizing local ingredients and traditional recipes.
HRK130, 1h15m

2:15pm

Explore Roman Forum and St. Donatus Church

Wander around the ancient Roman Forum and visit the pre-Romanesque St. Donatus Church, iconic of Zadar's rich history.
Free, 1h15m

4:00pm

Relax at Kolovare Beach

Take a relaxing late afternoon swim or walk along Kolovare Beach, enjoying the Adriatic coastline.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bruschetta

Finish the day with casual dining offering seafood and Mediterranean dishes in a lively atmosphere.
HRK120, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Zadar

Day 4: Historic Split

Split, Croatia on May 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel or local bakery

Have a quick and tasty Croatian breakfast before travel.
HRK40, 1h0m

8:30am

Travel to Split

Head further down the Dalmatian coast; the drive from Zadar to Split is about 2 hours.
Transport approx. HRK200, 2h0m

10:30am

Tour Diocletian's Palace

Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site which forms the historic heart of Split with its ancient Roman architecture and bustling markets.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Fife Restaurant

Taste traditional and affordable Dalmatian dishes loved by locals in a casual setting.
HRK90, 1h0m

2:00pm

Climb Marjan Hill

Enjoy panoramic views over Split and the Adriatic Sea from walking trails on Marjan Hill, open all day.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Bačvice Beach

Spend late afternoon at Bačvice Beach, famous for its sandy shore and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Zinfandel Food & Wine Bar

Have an upscale dinner focusing on Croatian wines and modern cuisine, open until 11:00pm.
HRK200, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Split

Day 5: Hvar Island Relaxation

Hvar Island, Croatia on May 16, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a quick breakfast before your ferry to Hvar.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Ferry to Hvar Island

Catch a morning catamaran or ferry from Split to Hvar, approximately 1 hour journey.
HRK120, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk around Hvar Town

Explore charming streets, visit the Renaissance-era town square and fortress with panoramic views of the Pakleni Islands.
Free to walk; Fortica Fortress entry HRK30, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Dalmatino

Enjoy Mediterranean seafood and local specialties at a popular well-reviewed eatery.
HRK150, 1h0m

1:30pm

Beach time at Dubovica Beach

Relax at this stunning pebble beach 10 minutes drive from town, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Free, 3h0m

5:00pm

Coffee and refreshment at Fig Cafe

Recharge with coffee and light snacks at the trendy Fig Cafe in Hvar Town.
HRK40, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Gariful Restaurant

Dine on fresh seafood right on the harbor with excellent views and ambiance, open until 10:30pm.
HRK180, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Hvar Island

Day 6: Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik, Croatia on May 17, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel

Get ready early for travel to Dubrovnik.
Included, 1h0m

8:00am

Ferry & Drive to Dubrovnik

Take the ferry and/or coach from Hvar to Dubrovnik, approximately 3-4 hours including transfers.
HRK350, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Taj Mahal (local Bosnian cuisine)

Enjoy hearty and flavorful Bosnian dishes in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
HRK130, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk Dubrovnik City Walls

Walk the entire 2 km long city walls (open 8:00am-7:00pm) to admire spectacular sea and old town views.
HRK200, 2h0m

4:30pm

Visit Rector’s Palace and Sponza Palace

Explore these historic buildings showcasing Dubrovnik’s history and architecture.
HRK120 combined, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nautika Restaurant

Enjoy fine dining with a focus on seafood and Adriatic cuisine with stunning views of the fortress and sea.
HRK350, 2h0m
Find Hotels in Dubrovnik

Day 7: Dubrovnik Leisure & Departure

Dubrovnik, Croatia on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dubravka 1836

Kick off with breakfast at this terrace restaurant overlooking the city walls and Lovrijenac fortress.
HRK90, 1h0m

9:30am

Cable Car Ride to Mount Srđ

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic from the top of Mount Srđ; cable car open 9:00am-8:00pm.
HRK150 round trip, 1h30m

11:30am

Relax at Banje Beach

Spend time at Banje Beach nearby with fantastic views of the Old Town waterfront, ideal for a last swim or stroll.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Proto Fish Restaurant

Savor your final meal in Croatia with traditional seafood specialties at Proto, a well-established Dubrovnik institution.
HRK180, 1h0m

2:30pm

Departure preparations

Return to your hotel or travel to the airport for your onward journey.
Varies, Varies
Find Hotels in Dubrovnik
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