Family-Friendly 5-Day Croatia Itinerary from North to South

Day 1: Zagreb Introduction

Zagreb, Croatia on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Hleb & Kifle

Start your day with freshly baked pastries and coffee in this popular Zagreb bakery, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and delicious breakfast options.
HRK50-80, 1h

9:30am

Explore Zagreb Upper Town (Gornji Grad)

Discover Zagreb’s historic Upper Town with its cobblestone streets, St. Mark’s Church with colourful tiled roof, and the Lotrščak Tower which offers panoramic city views. Perfect for kids to explore and learn history.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Agava Restaurant

Enjoy Croatian cuisine featuring grilled meats and fresh vegetables located near the city centre. The menu is well suited for families and children.
HRK150-200, 1h

1:30pm

Visit the Zagreb Zoo

Spend an afternoon at Maksimir Park’s Zagreb Zoo, great for children with a variety of animals and pleasant walking paths in a well-maintained setting.
HRK40 per adult, HRK20 per child, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Jarun Lake

Take a family-friendly stroll or rent paddle boats on Jarun Lake, a popular outdoor recreational area with playgrounds and beaches ideal for kids.
Free, rentals extra, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Didov San

End the day with traditional Dalmatian dishes in a welcoming family environment. Their grilled lamb and seafood options are highly praised.
HRK150-220, 1h
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Day 2: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Plitvice Lakes, Croatia on July 3, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your Zagreb hotel before departure to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Included in hotel, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Plitvice Lakes

Leave Zagreb for a scenic 2-hour drive south to Croatia’s most famous national park with lakes and waterfalls, perfect for families who love nature.
Fuel approx HRK150, 2h

10:30am

Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park

Walk the wooden pathways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site where kids can marvel at the turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls. The park is stroller-friendly on designated routes.
HRK300 adult, HRK150 child, 4h

2:30pm

Lunch at Licka Kuca Restaurant

Taste local specialties such as lamb and traditional Croatian stews in a rustic setting near the park entrance.
HRK150-180, 1h

4:00pm

Drive to Zadar

Continue the journey southwards with a 1.5-hour drive to the coastal city of Zadar, allowing some downtime on the way.
Fuel approx HRK100, 1h30m

6:00pm

Evening Walk along Zadar Riva Promenade

Enjoy the sunset by the sea while experiencing the unique Sea Organ and Sun Salutation, interactive installations loved by kids and adults alike.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Restaurant Bruschetta

Sample fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes on the waterfront in a family-friendly setting.
HRK180-220, 1h
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Day 3: Zadar Coast & History

Zadar, Croatia on July 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Fabrique Pub

Enjoy artisanal breads, cakes and fresh coffee in an inviting space ideal for families to relax before a busy day.
HRK50-90, 1h

9:00am

Visit Zadar Old Town

Explore the Roman and Venetian ruins, medieval churches and charming streets. Key stops include the Cathedral of St. Anastasia and the Roman Forum, engaging for older children interested in history.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Boat Trip to Kornati National Park

Take a half-day family-friendly boat excursion to explore the beautiful Kornati archipelago beaches and islands, perfect for swimming and spotting wildlife.
HRK300 per person, 4h

4:00pm

Return to Zadar and Rest

Relax at your accommodation or take a short siesta after the boat trip.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Pet Bunara

Enjoy a contemporary twist on Dalmatian cuisine with vegetarian options, ideal for a varied family palate.
HRK180-220, 1h
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Day 4: Split Ancient & Beach Day

Split, Croatia on July 5, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pension Split

Start your day with a well-reviewed buffet breakfast including fresh fruit and pastries for a family-friendly start.
HRK50-80, 1h

8:30am

Drive to Split

A 1.5-hour coastal drive from Zadar to Split with beautiful scenery along the Adriatic coast.
Fuel approx HRK120, 1h30m

10:00am

Explore Diocletian’s Palace

Discover this UNESCO World Heritage site that forms the heart of Split. Kids will love wandering through ancient Roman cellars and the bustling squares.
Free entry, some museums charge HRK30-50, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Pizzeria Galija

Enjoy traditional wood-fired pizzas with child-friendly options near the Riva promenade.
HRK70-120, 1h

2:00pm

Afternoon at Bacvice Beach

Relax and swim at Split’s most famous sandy beach, safe and suitable for children with amenities close by.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Konoba Fetivi

A family-friendly restaurant offering excellent Dalmatian dishes with generous portions and a warm atmosphere.
HRK150-200, 1h
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Day 5: Dubrovnik Sightseeing

Dubrovnik, Croatia on July 6, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have a nutritious early breakfast before your journey to Dubrovnik.
Included in accommodation, 1h

7:30am

Drive to Dubrovnik

Set off for the approximately 3-hour drive from Split to Dubrovnik, taking in stunning coastal views.
Fuel approx HRK250, 3h

10:30am

Walk City Walls of Dubrovnik

Explore the 2-km-long medieval city walls offering breathtaking views of the Adriatic and old town, an engaging and scenic activity for the whole family.
HRK200 adult, HRK100 child, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Lady Pi-Pi

Enjoy grilled meats and seafood while overlooking the old city walls, with a kid-friendly menu and relaxed atmosphere.
HRK180-230, 1h

2:00pm

Cable Car to Mount Srđ

Take the cable car for panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. A great photo opportunity and fun ride for children.
HRK200 round trip adult, HRK100 child, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at Banje Beach

Spend your afternoon unwinding at Dubrovnik’s famous pebble beach near the city walls, with nearby cafes and safe swimming areas for children.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Nautika Restaurant

Celebrate your last evening with exquisite seafood and traditional Croatian cuisine overlooking the Adriatic Sea, perfect for a memorable family dinner.
HRK300-400, 1h30m
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