best way to travel in croatia

The Ultimate 7-Day Croatia Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on November 23, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning the perfect Croatia itinerary is essential to ensuring you have the ideal trip to this incredible country.

Croatia is becoming an ever more popular European destination year after year as it has firmly cemented its beautiful Adriatic Riviera onto the pages of travel magazines, websites, and Instagram feeds. This incredibly diverse and welcoming country has endless opportunities to offer travellers.

While most visitors set their sites on Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands, they fail to dig deeper and explore the seemingly endless wonderful places to visit if you have 7 days in Croatia.

Croatia is a lot bigger and has a more diverse climate than most visitors expect, so it is essential to properly plan out your route before you go.

So if you’re visiting Croatia, these three itineraries are perfect guidelines for having the best trip possible.

Table of Contents

Best Time to Visit Croatia

Contrary to popular belief, Croatia isn’t all sunshine and sea every day of the year and the vast majority of the country really does experience all four seasons.

While winters in Dalmatia and on the coast tend to be mild compared to that of other European countries, the north of Croatia — in places like Zagreb or the Slavonia region — can expect to experience fairly heavy snowfall and average high temperatures that linger just above freezing.

It is also worth noting that a good majority of Croatia isn’t perennially blessed with endless sunny days. Zagreb, for instance, is actually quite wet and it is best to expect at least a few rainy days on your trip along the coast as well — depending on the season you are travelling.

In the most popular coastal cities in Croatia — like Split and Dubrovnik — you can expect a significant amount of rain in the winter months.

If you do want to avoid the hordes of tourist crowds, then winter can be an appealing option, especially if you’re not one to enjoy lazy beach and swimming days. It is worth knowing that many restaurants and tourist attractions are closed in the winter due to low demand.

The summer months of late June-August are the most popular times to travel to Croatia and if you plan to hit the most visited cities in the country, you can expect them to be very crowded. Temperatures can reach well over 30ºC (86ºF) on the coast and expect it to be even hotter in the capital.

Prices also mimic the high temperatures in the Croatian summer with everything from accommodation to restaurant costs inflated to take advantage of the tourism revenue. Places to stay tend to book out early, especially in July and August, so it is essential that if you’re planning a trip to Croatia , you plan well in advance if you are set on travelling in peak season.

Ideally, the best time of year to travel to Croatia is in the shoulder seasons directly surrounding summer. May and September have some of the best weather in Europe, where you can expect warm temperatures averaging around 25ºC (77ºF) and for the majority of your days to be sunny.

Most seasonal restaurants and tourist attractions will begin to open their doors again through the months of March-October so you will be able to see and eat everything that you could in the summer with a fraction of the crowds.

Getting Around Croatia

If you are only planning a one-week Croatia itinerary and want to make the most of your time, you need to be able to optimise your transport so you spend more time sightseeing and less time in transit.

If you want to rely on public transport when getting from point A to B in Croatia, then you’re going to need to get to know the bus network. Like many Balkan countries, Croatia doesn’t have an advanced train system and the majority of inter-city transport is dominated by the humble bus.

Bus connections between major cities are frequent, but they can book out early during the summer months. There are a number of different transit companies to choose from, some of which allow you to book tickets online.

Others might require you to buy a bus ticket at the station. You can check bus timetables and routes throughout Croatia on Busbud . Another thing to keep in mind is that most buses do charge to put luggage into hold — usually around €1-2.

If you can and your Croatia budget allows for it, a far better transportation option for one week in Croatia is to rent a car.

This will allow you to be more flexible with your departure times and reach places that aren’t as well-served by the bus network. Driving in Croatia is easy and going on a Croatia road trip is one of the best ways to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time.

If you only have a week, you are going to want to see as much of the country as you can and it isn’t always possible to do with irregular bus timetables and long travel times.

You can browse Rentalcars.com which compares car hire prices across major companies. Alternatively, check out Localrent which can connect you with smaller companies or individuals renting their cars.

If you’re flying into Croatia and are not hiring a car, you can organise a private transfer from the airport here.

Classic 7-Day Croatia Itinerary

If it is your first time visiting Croatia, then this is the one-week itinerary you should follow. It covers all of the main tourist highlights of Croatia with possible day-trip options to nearby national parks and beautiful islands.

We do recommend renting a car for this route, however, if you want to save money, a car is not necessary for the Zagreb portion of this trip. You can go ahead and rent a car when leaving the capital and save a couple of days of fare and parking fees.

Day 1 – Zagreb

The most logical place to start this route through Croatia is in the vibrant capital of Zagreb . For many years, tourists have treated Zagreb as merely a place to fly into before making a beeline for the coast — maybe spending a night there if their flight arrives late and leaving first thing in the morning.

However, in recent years, Zagreb has really come into its own as a tourist destination, which is why we recommend spending two days in the Croatian capital.

Zagreb has a gritty, artistic feel to it and has a number of interesting things to do. Take a walking tour of the city to get your bearings and explore some of the main historical sites like St Mark’s Church, the Stone Gate, the Zagreb Cathedral and strolling through the lush Green Horseshoe Park.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Casablanca Boutique B&B   – This boutique bed and breakfast is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if your budget allows for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available, it is located very close to the city centre and all of the main tourist attractions, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Hostel Mali Mrak – This locally-run hostel is one of the best places to stay in Zagreb if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They have an incredibly friendly staff, great common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers and have both dorms and private rooms available. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zagreb

Day 2 – Zagreb

Though you can certainly see the majority of the highlights of Zagreb within the confines of one day, spending two days in the city is ideal if you want to go at a slower pace and get your bearings in Croatia.

If you spent your first day in the Old Town there are plenty of other places you can visit on the second day.

For instance, consider hopping on a bus to see the massive and sprawling Mirogoj Cemetery. Or, if you’re a craft beer fan, there are plenty of great brewpubs to hop between. Those who love quirky museums will also like the Museum of Broken Relationships.

Zagreb is also an excellent place to educate yourself on the Yugoslav Wars, which were particularly devastating here. Many people tend to forget the horrific conflict of the 1990s when visiting Croatia, but it is important to see how far the nation has come in the past 30 years.

Two days in Zagreb is a perfect amount of time to spend in order to really get a feel for the city and will probably lend to you longing to return one day!

Day 3 – Plitvice Lakes National Park

The iconic and gorgeous Plitvice Lakes National Park is the second-most visited attraction in Croatia (after Dubrovnik) and it is for good reason — it is absolutely spectacular.

This massive network of lakes and waterfalls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is enough to charm even the most ardent of city people and visiting is a highlight of any trip to Croatia. While it can get very busy in the summer months, it is still an unmissable area to explore in Croatia.

While many people visit Plitvice as a day trip from Zagreb or Split, we recommend spending a night near the park so you can get there as early as possible, avoid the inevitable tourist crowds, and spend as much time as you can in the park.

You need at least four hours to see the majority of the park, but you can easily spend longer. Because of this, we recommend leaving Zagreb in the evening, spending the night near the park, visiting Plitvice Lakes in the morning and then driving onto your next destination by the afternoon or evening.

If you don’t have a car, you can organise a guided tour  from Zagreb or a group tour that includes transport from Zagreb to Split.

Where to Stay in Plitvice Lakes

House Turkalj — This cosy family-run guesthouse is an excellent affordable option for those looking for a little bit more than a hostel. They have a handful of private ensuite rooms available along with self-catering facilities. They also offer complimentary beer and rakija.

Falling Lakes Hostel — This is a great option for backpackers, budget and solo travellers who want a place near Plitvice Lakes. They offer both dorm and private rooms, self-catering facilities, and will arrange a shuttle to the entrance of the lakes should you not have your own vehicle.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Plitvice Lakes!

Day 4 – Split

After spending two days of your week in Croatia soaking up the arts, culture, and nightlife of Zagreb and another day at the incredible Plitvice Lakes National Park, it’s time to head to the coast and Croatia’s second-largest city of Split.

The drive to Split is absolutely beautiful and there are lots of places in Croatia to stop and enjoy along the way, so make sure to spend your day taking advantage of seeing all there is on the Croatian coast.

Spend the next day taking advantage of all of the great things to do in Split . Walk around the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, stroll along the seaside promenade, enjoy a glass of Croatian wine at an outdoor cafe, or take a hike up Marjan Hill.

Where to Stay in Split

Il Giardino Luxury Rooms & Suites – If you’re looking for a little bit more luxury, then you can’t go wrong with this boutique hotel. They have a number of spacious and comfortable rooms on offer, are located close to both the centre of Split and within walking distance of the beach and have breakfast included and a restaurant on site.

Tchaikovsky Hostel  – This hostel is a great option if you’re travelling solo or on a budget. They are centrally located, have excellent ratings, and offer both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Split

Day 5 – Split

On your second day, consider taking one of the many potential day trips from Split . You could head to the towns of Sibenik or Trogir (the latter is a UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the beautiful Krka National Park, or even make a trip to one of the islands off the coast — enjoy the laid-back nature of Brac or the lavender fields of Hvar for a day!

If you choose to visit Krka National Park, get an early start to beat the crowds – it’s located about an hour from Split. Here you can enjoy gorgeous lakes and waterfalls, swimming spots and nice walking trails.

The town of Sibenik is only about fifteen minutes from Krka, so it’s easy to also visit here. It’s small, but absolutely charming with great seaside views and plenty of winding, cobbled streets to get lost on.

If you want a jam-packed day, you could also tack on the town of Trogir on your way back to Split. This is an historic town on its own island (there is a bridge to get there) that is an absolute joy to explore.

Alternatively, consider taking a day trip to an island like Hvar or Brac. Brac is closer to Split but is a bit more sleepy – though it is home to the iconic Zlatni Rat Beach.

Hvar is a bit further away, but fast passenger ferries from Split can allow you to spend the day exploring the charming Hvar Town and swimming around the Pakleni islands.

If you have more than a week to dedicate to this particular itinerary, this is the time where it makes sense to spend more time. Spend an extra day or two in Split, for instance, and you can easily go on all of these day trips. If you have longer, head to an island like Hvar or Korcula for a few days before moving on to Dubrovnik.

Day 6 – Dubrovnik

The most popular place to visit in Croatia thanks in no part to  Game of Thrones , no trip to Croatia that covers the tourist highlights of the country would be complete without including the city of Dubrovnik .

Dubrovnik is the premier place to visit in Croatia and the image of its beautiful city walls is what automatically fills people’s imaginations when thinking of this Adriatic country. Keep in mind that Dubrovnik is small, can be very crowded, and is noticeably more expensive than anywhere else in the country.

That is not to say it’s not absolutely gorgeous and it is absolutely worth spending time in the city, especially if it’s your first time visiting Croatia. We recommend spending at least two days in Dubrovnik, one where you can stroll along the well-trodden tourist sites and another where you can try to explore outside of the Old Town.

Spend your first day in Dubrovnik taking in the highlights of the Old Town. Get an early start to beat the crowds on the City Walls and then continue on to visit the Pile Gate, the Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Rector’s Palace.

There are lots of day trippers and cruise ship crowds here, so the crowds can lessen significantly in the evenings. Take this time to enjoy a quieter side of Dubrovnik.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Boutique Hotel Porto   – Located directly in the Old Town, this boutique hotel is a great option if you’re looking to add a bit of luxury to your time in Croatia. They have a range of clean, comfortable rooms on offer and it comes very highly rated. 

Old Town Hostel   — As the name suggests, this boutique hostel is located directly in Dubrovnik’s iconic Old Town. It is one of the highest-rated hostels in the city and has both dorm beds and private rooms available.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Dubrovnik

Day 7 – Dubrovnik

On your final day, you can use it as an opportunity to explore more of Dubrovnik and get a bit beyond the old town.

You could spend your day lounging on one of Dubrovnik’s beaches or, perhaps, visit lovely Lokrum Island located just a few hundred metres from the shores of the old town.

You can grab a ferry to Lokrun Island and reach it in about ten minutes from the centre of Dubrovnik. It is a nature reserve known for its lush greenery. There are also plenty of lovely, secluded swimming spots for those who want to splash in the water!

Dubrovnik is also a great base to take a few day trips. It is incredibly possible to visit the beautiful city of Kotor, Montenegro or marvel at the Stari Most in divided Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina . If you spend one day exploring the old town, it is totally possible to tack on a visit to either of the cities on the second day.

7-Day Adriatic Coast Itinerary

If you’re interested in spending time on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast and want to see the highlights that lie in the cities, towns and islands of the Adriatic Sea, then this is the route for you.

It skips some of the inland attractions and concentrates solely on the coastal region. Keep in mind that this route is much easier to execute if you have your own vehicle.

Day 1 – Zadar

Begin your trip in the lovely town of Zadar . This historic town is located in the centre of the Dalmatia region and is actually home to its own international airport, so you can easily get here from plenty of other destinations across Europe.

Zadar is small but there is a lot to see and do in the town and it’s worth spending at least an entire day exploring. The pedestrianised old town doesn’t attract the crowds often seen in cities like Split and Dubrovnik.

There is a lovely seaside promenade complete with a delightful Sea Organ – a series of steps that plays music as the waves crash against it. There are also Roman ruins and beautiful churches to take in, along with swimming spots all along the promenade. There are also plenty of great cafes and restaurants to enjoy.

Where to Stay in Zadar

Art Hotel Kalelarga   — This boutique hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms and free breakfast in the morning in a fantastic Old Town Zadar location. It is one of the highest-rated hotels in Zadar and it is a great option for those looking for a bit of luxury. 

Downtown Boutique Hostel  — This small boutique hostel is located in the centre of Old Town Zadar. They have a number of room options available — from dorm beds to privates  — and a friendly and helpful staff. This is a great budget option. 

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other options in Zadar

Day 2 – Krka National Park & Šibenik

On your second day, plan to make your way to Split as your final destination. However, there are a couple of excellent places you can visit within easy reach of Zadar.

Start your day with a visit to Krka National Park. Though not located directly on the coast, this gorgeous natural area is absolutely worth a visit if you’re in this part of Croatia. Within the park, you will find beautiful waterfalls, swimming areas and walking trails.

Only about fifteen minutes driving from Krka, you will find the lovely town of Sibenik, which is our second destination for the day.

This is another excellently-preserved old Croatian town and it is a true delight to wander through. It attracts even fewer crowds than Zadar, so you can certainly have some of the quiet, pedestrianised streets to yourself.

From Sibenik, it’s about a 1-hour drive to Split, your destination for the next two nights.

Day 3 – Split

Your third day of this route should be spent exploring the highlights of the city of Split. Though it’s Croatia’s second-largest city, you can easily explore the compact old town in the confines of a single day.

Because you’ve spent the night here, you can beat the crowds in Diocletian’s Palace and get an early start!

You can also take the time to hike up Marjan Hill where you can get incredible views of the city below and of the surrounding islands.

Day 4 – Hvar

Try to get an early start and hop on the earliest ferry you can to get to Hvar , one of the most popular Croatian islands to visit. Car ferries from Split arrive in the port in the town of Stari Grad, which is only about thirty minutes from the far more popular Hvar Town.

Spend your first day exploring the sites in and around Hvar Town. Wander the delightful Old Town and then take the time to lounge on the beach – Pokonji Dol Beach is an excellent option!

Alternatively, you can also join a boat tour or hop on a water taxi to the lovely Pakleni Islands, little islands that lie just off the coast from Hvar Town. These are great places to swim and sunbathe.

Hvar Town is also known for its nightlife. So, if it interests you, you can party into the wee hours of the night at one of the many beach clubs. Those looking for a quieter stay will find plenty of other great places to stay elsewhere on the island .

Where to Stay in Hvar

Pharos Hvar Hotel – Located in Hvar Town, this 3-star hotel is a good option on the island. They have a number of comfortable rooms to choose from and a great location for exploring the island and the town.

Adriana Hvar Spa Hotel – This seaside hotel is a great luxury option in Hvar Town. They have an inviting swimming pool, an on-site spa and plenty of gorgeous rooms for guests to choose from.

Hostel Villa Skansi – This hostel is great for budget travellers looking to enjoy Hvar’s nightlife. They have a number of different rooms to choose from and social events organised each evening.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Hvar hotels!

Day 5 – Hvar

On your second day in Hvar, continue to explore this beautiful and tranquil island! Your second day should be spent on the gorgeous Dubovica Beach before wandering over to explore cool and quiet Stari Grad.

You can stop off at some iconic Lavender Farms before wandering over to Vrboska – a town that has a lot of charm but not a lot of tourists. It’s a great place to sample some local wines and get a great meal!

Day 6 – Korčula 

Day six of this itinerary sees you going to another gorgeous Croatian island – Korcula . However, if you’ve had enough of islands and would rather visit Dubrovnik, then consider heading there from Hvar instead.

If you decide to head to Korcula, it can also be a good idea to get an early start. The easiest way to get there from Hvar is to drive to the Sucaraj ferry terminal and take the ferry to the mainland, then drive to the Orebic ferry terminal and grab the boat from there to Korcula town.

Then, spend your first day exploring the beauty of gorgeous Korcula Town. Often marketed as a smaller Dubrovnik, this is an old and excellently preserved town that just oozes charm. There’s a lot to see here and there are also some great restaurants and lovely local wine bars to pop into.

Where to Stay in Korčula 

Apartments Milion – A great mid-range option in Korcula Town, this place offers both comfortable double rooms and apartments for guests to choose from. It makes for a great base when exploring the island.

Aminess Korcula Heritage Hotel – This plush hotel in Korcula Town has a beautiful location right on the seaside. They have plenty of beautiful rooms and a great breakfast available in the mornings.

Hostel Korcula – Backpackers visiting Korcula will love this cool hostel in the centre of Korcula Town. They offer both dorms and privates and there are great common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Korcula hotels!

Day 7 – Korčula 

On your final day in Korcula, you can spend it lounging on the beach and, in the afternoon, enjoying some of the incredible wine that makes this island a dream destination. In the morning, head to the lovely Pupnatska Luka Beach and soak up some rays.

If you want to sample some local vintages, then consider heading to the inland town of Smokvica where there are several wineries that offer tastings.

In the second half of the day, make your way to the town of Lumbarda for more wine tasting. This town is also home to some of the island’s (and Croatia’s) only sandy beaches so you can enjoy this, as well.

7-Day Istrian Highlights Itinerary

If it isn’t your first time in Croatia — or even if it is and you’re keen to venture away from the well-trodden tourist path — then consider heading to the northwestern region of Istria.

This triangular peninsula is often considered to be Croatia’s gastronomic heart and it offers incredible ancient historical sites, beautiful coastal cities, and imposing hill towns to rival those of Tuscany. So, if you want to take the road less travelled, take a look at this Istria itinerary :

Day 1 – Pula

Begin your trip in the historic port city of Pula. Pula has an international airport that serves a multitude of airlines and destinations but if you don’t arrive by plane, it is also well-connected by bus.

Three days in Pula is sufficient in order to be able to see all of the incredible sites that the city has to offer while also giving you time to take a day trip or two.

Spend your first day checking out the amazing Pula Arena, visiting the number of interesting museums in the city, browsing the bustling Pula market and learning about Pula’s history.

Foodies will love the House of Istrian Olive Oil, which is a museum that explains the history of olive oil in the region and also allows you to have some tastings. There is some delicious extra virgin olive oil to enjoy here!

Of course, the Pula Arena is really the draw of exploring this city and it is truly spectacular. Excellently preserved, it is smaller than the Colosseum of Rome, however, it attracts far fewer people, as well.l You can climb all around the arena so it’s a very cool place to visit.

Where to Stay in Pula

Boutique Hotel Oasi  – This small hotel is located very close to the beach and a short distance from central Pula. They have a number of rooms on offer, a restaurant on site, and breakfast is included in the room rate. 

Boutique Hotel Valsabbion  – If you’re the type to travel in luxury, then this boutique hotel is the place for you. Boasting sleek modern rooms, a fantastic swimming pool, an on-site spa, a beachfront location and much more, this hotel is sure to give you a great experience in Pula! 

Crazy House Hostel   – Located in the centre of the Old Town, this hostel is the perfect place for solo travellers on a budget and there is a fantastic outdoor terrace to relax on. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Pula!

Day 2 – Brijuni Islands

You can spend your second day either taking in more of Pula itself or going on a day trip to the wonderful Brijuni Islands.

These were once the summer home of former Yugoslav dictator Josip Broz Tito and today are a wildlife park and nature reserve.

To get to the Brijuni Islands, you must take a ferry from the nearby town of Fazana. This is a pedestrian-only ferry as there are no cars on the island.

Once there, it can be a great idea to hire a bicycle and ride around the island – it’s quite flat and there are plenty of secluded beaches to enjoy.

Day 3 – Labin & Rabac

On the third day, you can either take a day trip to neighbouring hill towns like Labin or spend the day lounging on a nearby beach.

There is a lot to see in this area of Istria so using Pula as a base for 3 nights really makes sense even if you only spend one full day exploring the city itself. The hill town of Labin, for instance, is located only about 45 minutes from Pula and it can be a delightful place to explore.

Nearby, if you want some seaside charms, head to the small town of Rabac, which is absolutely charming and with wandering through, as well. There are also plenty of beaches you could choose to visit should you wish to have a lazy day of sunbathing.

Day 4 – Umag

After spending some time enjoying the history and atmosphere of Pula, it’s time to head to one of the most underrated towns in Istria: Umag.

Umag is a small seaside town in the northwest of Istria and has a quaint and compact old town, a number of stellar swimming spots, great restaurants, and is close to some of Istria’s best vineyards. Two days here should be enough.

Spend the first day exploring Umag itself and maybe take the time to visit a local vineyard for some wine tasting. You can even head to the beach and swim in the warm Adriatic.

Where to Stay in Umag

Vilola  – A small boutique hotel located close to some of the best swimming areas in Umag, Vilola offers air-conditioned rooms with their own balcony and breakfast included in the room rate. 

Hotel Arte Casa  – Another boutique hotel in Umag, this one also has a great breakfast included in the nightly rate, air-conditioned rooms, and free parking on the premises. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Umag!

Day 5 – Istrian Hill Towns

On the second day staying in Umag, take to the car and head inland to visit some of the most picturesque hill towns in Istria. Buje, Groznjan, and Motovun are all within easy reach of Umag.

Here you can also dine on truffles and pasta for a fraction of the cost of elsewhere in the world.

This area of Croatia is completely different from the most popular tourist destinations and it is sure not to disappoint.

Day 6 – Rovinj

After enjoying the hustle and bustle of Pula and the laid-back nature and nearby hill towns of Umag, it’s time to head to the most iconic Istrian town: Rovinj.

Rovinj is an absolutely beautiful seaside town in western Istria and boasts a number of interesting things to do. Its proximity to some of the best beaches in the region is an appealing reason to visit Rovinj as well.

Spend one day exploring the Old Town and take the time to just let your feet wander and get lost. Walk around the harbour, stop in for a drink at one of the many seaside cafes, and even climb the bell tower of St Euphemia’s Church.

Day 7 – Rovinj

On your second day in Rovinj and last day of this Croatia trip, you can either spend it laying on the beach and soaking up the bright Adriatic sun or you can hop in the car and go on another day trip.

The small hill town of Bale or the lively seaside towns of Porec and Vrsar are both appealing options, as is the beautiful Lim Fjord.

Where to Stay in Rovinj

Hotel Angelo d’Oro   – A small hotel in the middle of old town Rovinj, this place has a number of rooms on offer and comes very highly rated. Breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Rooms Barbieri – Located only five minutes from the old town, this charming hotel is a great option for a place to stay in Rovinj. The rooms are large and comfortable and it also includes breakfast in the room rate. 

Not quite what you’re looking for?  Click here to browse other places in Rovinj!

Croatia is an absolutely gorgeous and welcoming country that just begs to be explored. However, mapping out the ideal 7 days in Croatia itinerary is paramount to ensuring you have the best Croatian adventure possible!

Are you planning to visit Croatia? Have any questions? Let us know in the comm

Related Posts:

How to Do A Plitvice Lakes Day Trip from Split or Zagreb

The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Hvar Itinerary

Hvar or Korcula: Which Croatian Island to Visit?

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, we are staying for 7 days. Our worry is that we arrive late at night around 00:30 in Zagreb. Do you suggest to immediately move out of Zagreb and then to return to Zagreb on the last two days (to avoid problems cause of the flight?) Also, at night which is the easiest way to travel and would Zadar be a good place to be based at? Thanks a lot!

Hi-is it reasonable to drive from Vienna to Croatia or is it better to fly & rent a car in Zagreb? Was thinking of focusing on Istrian area due to time constraints & found a hotel that caters to Vegan diets. Is there enough to do in that area for 6-7 days if your primary interest is pretty nature? Thanks

Hi Mark, especially if you’re heading to Istria and not further south in Croatia, it’s not unreasonable at all to drive from Vienna. In fact, it’s a gorgeous drive and you will have lots of opportunities for stop-offs along the way. The drive from Vienna to Pula is about 6 hours.

There is certainly enough to do in Istria to fill 6-7 days and I would highly recommend spending that amount of time there!

We are interested in visiting the Balkans at the beginning of November for about 11 days. We can rent a car but I would like to start from Sarajevo and end there. I thought of doing two countries only, maybe Bosnia and Croatia. Or Bosnia and a different country – which one? We would need to get back to Sarajevo. We are also interested in the Jewish background of the Balkans, both historically, after the expulsion from Spain through the Holocaust. Can you help me to put my head in order :-)?

For 11 days, I think you could easily visit some highlights of Bosnia along with bits of Croatia. Especially if you’re interested in Jewish history, Sarajevo can be a great place to visit.

Hi Maggie, we are planning a 20 day trip to Croatia late July/beginning of August with 3 kids (8, 12, 14). We are arriving and departing from Dubrovnik. We would like to end our trip in Dubrovnik and since there isn’t a convenient flight from Dubrovnik to Zagreb, we will have to hit the road as soon as we land. We would like to visit Istria, Lake Bled/Vintgar Gorge, Plitvice Lakes, Rijeka, Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik with various day trips throughout. It would be nice to see Zadar and/or Zagreb as well but not sure if we will have time or if necessary. We love hiking, beaches and of course sight seeing. I’m trying to figure out what’s the best way to plan out our trip. Should we break up our initial 7 hour drive from Dubrovnik or go straight through? Where should we stop first and in what order should we make our remaining stops? I would like to see as much as we can but at the same time not be overwhelmed and have some beach time. Please help!

We are arriving in Croatia in the middle of June for 7 night staying in Lapad can you recommend where to start exploring first

We need to fly into Zadar or Zagreb either is fine and out of Split. Give or take a week. We don’t need a ton of hiking but would like to see some falls. Islands? Cities. We need a plan.

Hello Maggie,

As first, I want to say that I do like your overview of Croatia trip in general and thank you for it.

However, I must say that it is very sad how people focus only on coastal region of Croatia, with exception of Zagreb and Plitvice lakes, and completely ignore the continental part of it, which is definitely not fair.

Places like Vinkovci, the oldest settlement in Europe where two Roman emperors were born, then numerous wine cellars and vineyard, especially in the town of Ilok, whose wine was used during coronation of Queen Elisabeth II and on Price Harry and William weddings, city of Osijek with its baroque architecture, city of Djakovo with its royal breed of horses called Lipizzaner which are so beautiful – closest thing to Unicorns as they are called, then the City of Varazdin, called also a “Little Vienna”, formerly even a capital of Croatia (18th century) with a beautiful castle and mesmerizing baroque style architecture, Croatian Sahara, numerous castles all around, river sites, and as I like to say most important of all, the amazing food and the most warm and welcoming people of all. Of course, there are so many more that I didn’t mention, but I don’t want to keep this long.

At the end, this is not a criticism and have no negative connotations, but just maybe a pointer that there is another side of Croatia, that is far from the sea and common touristic spotlight, however still beautiful and wort to visit.

We are planning a trip to Croatia in March 2023. Our flight lands in Zagreb on 03/09. We fly out of Zagreb as well. Have about 8 days. I like your first itinerary, but we wanted to see Istria as well. We are not planning on going all the way to Dubrovnik on this trip. Any suggestions as to routes? Would like to hit Zadar, Split, Plitvice Lakes Park, and Istria. We will rent a car. Thank you!

Hi Sandy, unfortunately, it’s not very practical to include all you want on your itinerary – especially when considering travel times. Personally, I would suggest not planning on visiting Istria if you would like to see all of the other parts of Croatia, as well.

We are planning a trip next month for 7 days and interested into going to Montenegro from Dubrovnik. I think it would be too much to think we could get to the Plitvice National Park as well? What are your suggestions in Montenegro?

Thank YOU! Sharon

I am visiting Slovenia and Croatia next summer for approximately 8 days . We will arrive in Lublanja in the middle of the day and leave from Dubrovnik at noon the last day. We would like to spend 1/2 day in Lubalanja and 11/2 days in lake bled , a day in Novo Mesto, 1/2 day in Pula and2 days in Dubrovnik We we’re thinking of a tour to Mostar and Medjagorje one day Can we do this in the time allotted? We will not be driving Could you give us a time efficient itinerary that would make it possible?

Hi Jackie, this route seems far too rushed to be enjoyable and to actually spend any time in any of the places you’re keen to visit — you’ll be spending the majority of your time in transit. I would suggest planning to spend your entire time in Slovenia or visiting a bit of Slovenia and Croatian Istria. You can find our Slovenia itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/slovenia-itinerary/

Hi Maggie, Thank you for writing one of the most thorough blogs about traveling in Croatia! I’d love to get your advice on my itinerary. I will be going to Croatia from Slovenia and will have 7 days and 6 nights. I’d like this to be a more relaxed trip if possible…and am so torn between chilling on an island an skipping Dubrovnik or fitting Dubrovnik in! My flight is out of Split so I do need to get back there somehow and figure out what to do with the car I rent. What are your thoughts on the following:

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > 4 nights in Hvar or Brac > Depart from Split

Option 1: Fly into Zagreb/stay overnight > Zagreb to Plitvice overnight > Plitvice during the day and drive to Split (overnight or head to Hvar/Brac) > Hvar or Brac for 2 nights > Dubrovnik for two nights > Split overnight > Depart from Split

Option 2 honestly sounds pretty intense. That said, do you think it’s doable? If I were to go with Option 1, do you have any suggestions between Hvar or Brac and where to stay?

Thank you so much!

Hi Gina, happy you’ve found this article helpful! I do think that your second option is doable, however, it does sound quite rushed and exhausting, especially if you’re looking to chill out a bit!. Personally, I would opt for the first option to have a more relaxing trip 🙂

Hey Maggie I hope my message finds you well! We are planning with my partner a 6 days 5 nights trip starting and ending from Zagreb airiport, at the end of August with Flix bus and Ferries. We arrive in Zagreb at 14:00 Day one and Im thinking of after spending 3 hours in Zagreb to leave for either Pula or Rovijn, spend the Night and few hours the next Day. After I was checking if there is a way to travel with Ferrie directly to Split, spend the next evening there and travel with Ferrie to Dubrovnik for night number three. Next evening I was thinking of catching the evening Flix bus for Plivitce lake, in order to get in early in the morning. Later get back to Zagreb for an early flight the next Morning.

Is it possible you thhink with Bus and Ferrie, what should I leave back or add, any advices.

Hi Zak – honestly, I think your itinerary is way too hectic for the short time you have. I’d recommend concentrating on one of the routes I have outlined above for a less stressful and easier to coordinate trip 🙂

Thanks so much for this blog it is awesome! We are a family of four with two teenagers. Are we too late to plan a visit this summer? We are environmental scientists so I am mostly interested in enjoying the natural beauty of Croatia. What is your favorite island? I am obsessed with swimming holes and also clear blue waters…. What do you think two teenage girls would like the best?

Thanks for your comment, April, and I’m so happy you’ve found this article helpful! I don’t think that you’re too late to be planning a trip for the summer at all! Unfortunately, I don’t have too much experience travelling to the Croatian islands (I hope this changes soon, though!), but I do think that the island of Brac sounds like a good fit for you. It’s easy to reach from Split and has lots of great swimming areas. Hope you’re able to have a great trip!

Looking at booking Croatia for July/August 2021 and wanting to spend 14 days touring the country. What airport would you suggest to fly into and what airport would you suggest to leave out of? We are avid hikers and defiantly enjoy our ocean and water days. Enjoy the finer hotels and spas also. Very excited being my great grandmother and grandfather came from Croatia I want to experience the finest places the country offers.

Pat Williams

Hi Pat, I would recommend flying into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik (or vice versa) if you want to see a good portion of the country in 2 weeks. Hope you’re able to plan a great trip!

Hi Maggie. I am planning a trip of about 7 days to Croatia the first part of June. I have heard such wonderful things about Rovinj and the Iberia peninsula, but we also want to visit Split and Dubrovnik. Any suggestions or is this just trying to cram too much into a week? Most of the itineraries that I see online are an either/or for visiting those areas..

Hi Karen, unfortunately, it will likely be a bit too rushed if you plan to visit Istria and also Split and Dubrovnik in just one week. You can very easily spend a week just in Istria and even more in Dalmatia, so I would recommend weighing which areas appeal to you most and concentrating on those. You just might have to plan another trip!

Hi. What is the best way to tour the islands? Day trips or charter a sleeping boat for a few days? Want to enjoy the coastal scenery without feeling rushed by a group boat. And, when does Summer/high season officially end?

Hi Cindy, if you don’t want to feel rushed on the islands, then I would recommend spending a few days overnight on the ones that interest you rather than going on day trips. A boat charter is also a great idea if you want to island hop with more flexibility! High season is typically over by the end of September and you will start to see tourists clearing out and some businesses closing up by this time. The weather usually stays very nice through October, though, depending on where you are in the country!

I am planning a trip for 2 and most likely following a schedule similar to your “Classic Croatia” route. I was interested in visiting Krka National Park as well. Do you think it is worth it or is similar to Plitvice and not necessary?

Hi Holly, thanks for your comment! Both Krka and Plitvice are similar, but you can still get different things out of them if you want to visit both. For instance, you can go swimming at Krka which is not allowed at Plitvice. I personally think that both are worth visiting but Plitvice is more stunning than Krka in my opinion.

Hi Maggie, My wife and I are planning a 14 day motorhome tour of Croatia in mid September 2020. Our trip starts in Zagreb and ends in Dubrovnik. We currently have no Itinerary but would like to spend equal time travelling the coast and inland areas. Could you advise any web sites that show motorhome overnight parking. Regards

Hi Peter, sounds like you’re in the process of planning a great trip! Unfortunately, I don’t know much at all about motorhome travel, so I can’t advise you in that area. Hope you have a great time in Croatia!

Hi Maggie, I have planned my visit to Croatia from 25th Feb to 02nd March 2020. It is going to be me and my wife only. We will land in Zagreb on 25th Feb and would move out from Dubrovnik on the 02nd of March (Flights already done). Can you suggest what all places to be covered in this duration and how is the weather going to be like? Also, I am a bit confused b/w taking a rental car (don’t know whether it is left or right hand drive) or taking public transport like bus or taxis.

Hi Apoorv, I have covered a week-long itinerary starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik as well as the average weather to expect above. Croatia, like most European countries besides the UK, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus, drives on the right-hand side. All major cities are well-connected by bus. Relying on taxis to get around is an option, however, it will be very expensive. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!

HI I’m travelling to Croatia in early May 2020. Land Zagreb, 7 days, finishing in Dubrovnik (probably fly into Athens from here I’m thinking). A friend told me that Plitvice Lake NP required 2days and to stay there a night. What’s your thoughts on this?? Many thanks Anne-Marie

Hi Anne-Marie, I think you would only need 2 days in Plitvice if you’re really into hiking and nature and that’s why you’re visiting Croatia. Especially since you only have 7 days, there are many more places to spend time in Croatia. Hope you have a great trip!

Where should one start its trip from? If we are skipping Zagreb, and want to cover places like Split , Plitvice, Dubrovnik. Any other place that should which is highly recommended?

Hi Archie, if you don’t plan on visiting Zagreb, starting in Split or Dubrovnik makes sense. If you want to visit another coastal town, Zadar will make a nice stop. Also, there are numerous islands (Hvar, Brac, Korcula, etc) that are worth visiting.

20 days in Croatia and neighboring countries

We are 6 active hikers booked a trip to Croatia for 10 days in early May, 20 2 nights Opatija 1 night Split 2 nights Dubrovnik 1 night Vodice 1 night Zagreb 2 nights Bled

We would like to stay 10 more days to go to neighboring countries as well as doing a little hiking, biking and kayaking the area.

We are planning our flight from Vancouver. Our trip starts at Opatija and ends at Bled. Any suggestions on a good itineraries for pre and post trip?

Thanks for your comment, Jennifer. For the rest of your trip, any of the itineraries in this article might be good for you. If you are curious about exploring more of the Balkans besides just Croatia and Slovenia, we also have some Balkan itineraries here: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/plan-balkans-travel-itinerary/

Hi , I would be landing at zadar airport in september and planned for a 7 day trip, could you suggest how should we plan.. About us- Couple with no historical interests but love nature, scenery , beaches. Have to use public conveyance only for travel within croatia.

We are looking for a relaxed trip not a rushed one.

Thanks in advance.. Silky

Hi Silky, I would recommend you rework the Adriatic coast itinerary above to begin and end in Zadar rather than Zagreb. Going from Zadar-Zagreb-Split-Zadar or Zadar-Split-Zagreb-Zadar both work equally well and are all easily accessible via public transit. Hope you have a great trip!

I briefly read the article and maybe you covered it already. But most people will fly into Zagreb. With a 7 day itinerary using a rental car, you will start at the North and end in Dubrovnik. One has to account the time to get back to Zagreb. Any suggestions on how best to do this?

Hi Jacob, thanks for your comment. Because many people start and end their Croatia trips from different areas of the country (there are numerous airports that people will fly into, not just Zagreb!), I’ve left out how to get back to your beginning point. However, if you’re planning on renting a car in Zagreb and making your final destination in Dubrovnik, I see no reason why you couldn’t just drive back to Zagreb. It is often a lot cheaper to pick up and return a rental car to the same location. There are also numerous bus connections to Zagreb from just about every major city in Croatia, including Dubrovnik, if you don’t want to drive back to the capital yourself.

Hi Maggie, How’s Croatia in the dead if winter? January end Feb beginning? Where do you recommend travelling and what’s there to see. Thanks b

It depends on what you’re after, but the seaside towns will be pretty sleepy in the winter months. It’s a good time to visit Dubrovnik as you can experience the city with far fewer tourists than in the high season. Across the board, you will find accommodation prices to be a lot cheaper than in the more popular months, but some businesses may not be open in the middle of winter. Hope this helps!

Hello, Maggie! travellers plan to travel to visit Croatia in June, 2019, it would be around from June 26 to July 2-3 return,trip planned sbout 7-8 days at the destination. We are coming and driving a minibus (minivan) so ,it means we are very flexible on route and in any destinstion, we are free and sould move to any place any fay. As we primary memtioned, our start of the itinerary would be Zagreb, Split or Dubrovnik. Is it right if westart our trip from Riga by bus? By our plans we have to cross Latvia, Lithuania? Poland, Slovakia, Hungary and then somehow enter the Croatia. Could you corret me and suhgest me the best trip option (7-8days trip) for us as necessary?! Best regards, Ieva Lukina (ieva@21. lv)

Hi Ieva, I think that if you only have 7-8 days for your trip, trying to drive from Riga to Croatia is going to take up a good portion of it and give you very little time to explore Croatia itself. Maybe, if you can, try to allot more time for the trip or concentrate on travelling a little closer to home instead, this time around.

It’s tough making a decision, there are so many places to see that are gorgeous. I’m honestly not a big fan of Zagreb, it’s not the real Croatia to me. It’s Central Europe. Croatia for me is Central Dalmatia and to a smaller extent, Istria. For me, the highlights of the country range along the coast from Zadar (with an excursion inland to Plitvice) to Dubrovnik (from where I think Kotor is a must see as you mention). So many great spots on the way though: Sibenik, Omis, Makarska, the island of Vis…and that’s not even including the islands on the south. So much to see.

Thanks for the comment, Frank! I agree with you that it’s so hard to plan a route in Croatia…you could easily spend months there and not see everything!

I’m going to have to disagree with you about Zagreb, however. While I’m the first person to say that a capital city isn’t necessarily reflective of a country on the whole, I’m not sure it’s right to say that it’s not the “real” Croatia. It’s certainly much different than the cities in Dalmatia, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit and I think including it on a Croatia itinerary is important to get a feel for all sides of the country…even if you only have a short period there.

Great suggestions elsewhere…I’ve only been to Šibenik out of the places you mentioned and thought it was absolutely lovely. Like you said…there’s just so much to explore!

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Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide

Home » Blog » Europe » Croatia » Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide

Whether you are backpacking through or are wanting to splurge on Yacht Week, this Croatia travel guide has everything you need to help you plan your next adventure throughout this beautiful country in the Balkans.

With piercing turquoise seas and fairytale-like architecture, there is no denying Croatia is breathtakingly beautiful.

Spanning most of the Adriatic Sea, you’re never too far away from the coast when traveling in Croatia. And even if it’s not pretty beaches you seek, stone castles and magnificent waterfalls await travelers of all kinds.

Whether you are backpacking through Croatia or are wanting to splurge on Yacht Week, this Croatia travel guide will help you plan your next adventure to the Land of a Thousand Islands .

What we really thought about Croatia

We do our best to give our honest opinions about all the destinations we travel to and the products we recommend through Two Wandering Soles. That is why we are going to be honest about our thoughts on traveling in Croatia.

So brace yourself because ours is an unpopular opinion. What we’re about to say may come as a surprise, but it has to be said: We didn’t love Croatia.

That doesn’t mean we didn’t like Croatia. We just didn’t fall in love like we so often do with places we visit.

There’s no denying Croatia’s beauty. The aquamarine waters and craggy beaches are what dreams are made of. And Plitvice Lakes National Park is out-of-this-world gorgeous!

But frankly, it takes more than beautiful landscapes to make us fall in love. Just like with people: a pretty face is nice, but we crave more. 

The thing is, we made some big mistakes when traveling to Croatia. So make sure to read until the end of this article so you don’t make the same mistakes. If you follow our advice we think you will enjoy your time in Croatia much more than we did.

Croatia Travel Guide

• Important info

Best time to visit Croatia

Top places to visit in croatia, top things to do in croatia.

• Typical costs

Transportation in Croatia

• Practical tips for visiting
• Mistakes to avoid in Croatia
• Our advice for visiting Croatia
• How to book your trip
• What to pack 

Important info about Croatia

Croatia at a glance: Croatia is a popular travel destination due to its breathtaking beauty, historic seaside villages and stunning national parks. 

• Location: The Balkans region of Eastern Europe on the Adriatic Sea ( view on Google Maps )
• Capital city: Zagreb
• Language: Croatian 
• Currency: Euro (EUR / €)*
• Plugs/outlet types: Plug types C and F / 230 V and 50Hz

*A note about the currency: As of January 1, 2023, Croatia joined the Eurozone and adopted the Euro as their currency. Kuna (kn or HRK), the former currency of Croatia, will no longer be accepted as a form of payment. However, Kuna banknotes and coins can be exchanged until December 31, 2023. 

Visa Requirements

As of January 1, 2023, Croatia joined the Eurozone and officially became part of the Schengen Area for passport control and visa purposes. If you are a citizen of a Schengen Area country, you can enter Croatia easily without the need for a visa. 

If you are a U.S. citizen, you can enter the Schengen Area countries with a visa on arrival (just a stamp in your passport) and stay for up to 90 days in a rolling 180 period. (Meaning you cannot exceed 90 days in the previous 180 days.) If you are from a non-Schengen country, and not a U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to enter Croatia. However, this is dependent on your nationality and purpose of visiting.  We suggest double-checking with your home state department for updates on visa requirements. 

Language and helpful phrases

The official language of Croatia is Croatian (shocking!), but most people in the tourism industry will speak at least a bit of English. 

With that being said, it is always nice to learn a few local phrases to show you’ve done your homework and respect the local culture. 

• Hello = Bok
• Please = Molim
• Thank you = Hvala 
• Beer = Pivo
• Bathroom = Kupaonica 
• How much? = Koliko Kosta? 

Tipping in Croatia

While it isn’t necessarily expected to tip in Croatia, it is fairly common to round your bill up to the nearest whole number after a meal. You might consider adding a bit extra if you were especially pleased with your service.

For cafes, bars or drivers, you can simply round up your bill.

Since Croatia is a popular tourist destination, you can assume getting tips is becoming more and more common for service-industry workers and tour guides. Offering a few extra Euro is a great way to show someone they did an excellent job.

In short, you’ll have the most favorable weather and avoid peak season crowds during the late spring and early fall. 

Although Croatia’s busiest season is during the summer, the sheer number of crowds and scorching heat are no joke. So while it is the most popular time to visit, those factors may heed you to reconsider.

However, each season and month has its own draws and drawbacks, so there’s really no correct answer as it depends on what you’re doing and where you’re going.

Psst! You’ll find our guide to the best time to visit Croatia helpful to get the full breakdown on what makes each season distinct and unique to help cater to your trip.

Croatia boasts of beauty and unique places to visit. Choosing where to go is the hardest part! 

• Dubrovnik : For those who have a love for history (or happen to be a Game of Thrones super-fan), definitely plan a visit to this Croatian walled city to see its medieval architecture. 
• Split : This central coastal city has it all from gorgeous beaches to historic landmarks and a fantastic nightlife scene. Due to its central location, it is a great ‘home-base’ when traveling to many of the islands. 
• Plitvice Lakes National Park : Nature enthusiasts flock to the stunning waterfalls, lush forests and array of wildlife in this national park. This is an absolutely perfect place for anyone looking to get swept away in the beauty of nature. 
• Zagreb: As the capital of Croatia, you can expect this city to always be bustling with activity. Whether you’re visiting a museum, a cute boutique or trying out a new dish at a local restaurant, you will not run out of things to do.
• Croatian Islands: Home to over 1,000 islands, Croatia is a beach-lovers paradise. Hvar, Brac, Vis and Korcula are some of the most popular island destinations. Connected by a network of ferries, it’s easy to hop around.
• Istria Peninsula: Roman ruins and delicious cuisine make up this part of Croatia that shares a lot of similarities to neighboring Italy. 

Want more info? We have an entire article with a round up of the best places to visit in Croatia , including the top things to do and where to stay in each place. 

Croatia truly offers a variety of activities for every type of traveler. We’ve pooled together a few of the highlights (though there are many, many more!) in this Croatia travel guide. To find out more, check out our round up of absolute best things to do in Croatia .

• Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park. With its network of waterfalls, stunning canyons and array of wildlife, you’ll adore Plitvice Lakes. This is one of the oldest national parks in the country and part of the World Heritage Foundation. 
• Go truffle hunting. Croatia happens to be the best (and one of the only!) place to find truffles in the world. If you are visiting during the months of April – November, Karlic Tartufi , a local family business of 3 generations, offers a truffle hunting experience that we highly recommend. 
• Walk Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls. Throw on your walking shoes and weave through these ancient city walls to explore the stunning Medieval architecture.
• Explore Krka National Park . Throughout Krka National Park, there are dozens of waterfalls, picnic spots and numerous winding nature trails waiting to amaze you. 
• Discover Diocletian’s Palace. Experience a (mega) slice of ancient history by visiting a real-life palace built for the Roman emperor, Diocletian, over 1,500 years ago. If you’re in Split, you really cannot miss this. 
• Go sailing. One of the best ways to explore Croatia’s gorgeous coastline is from the water. As a popular sailing spot, there are numerous companies that offer sailing tours, lessons or charters.  

Budgeting for Croatia

Compared to its neighbors, Croatia is a pretty expensive place to visit. There are areas to cut costs so it doesn’t have to break the bank, but it’s definitely pricier than we expected.

You can expect to see the highest prices in popular places like Dubrovnik and Split. Many prices countrywide may double or even triple during summer. 

Typical daily budget for Croatia

• Budget traveler: If you are on a tight budget and watch your spending closely, €45 – €55 could be a sufficient budget. 
• Mid-range traveler: If you want to have a few splurges and stay in nicer accommodation, plan to budget €100 – €150 per person, per day in Croatia.
• Luxury traveler: You can easily spend as much as you want traveling around Croatia without any budget concerns. However, if you hope to have a luxury vacation, you should expect a minimum daily budget of €210+. 

Typical costs for Croatia

Prices in Croatia fluctuate depending on the area you’re traveling and the season, with summer being the most expensive time to travel. 

Accommodation

• Dorm bed: €10 – €20 
• Private room: €20 – €30 
• Mid-range hotel: €50 – €80 
• Luxury hotel: €150+ 
• Street food: €5 – €10
• Mid-range restaurant meal: €10 – €25
• Local beer: €3 – €5
• Coffee: €2 – €4
• Taxis: €2 – €4
• Local bus: €1 – €3 
• Cross-country bus: €13 – €24
• Ferry: €5 – €13 (small ferries) and €30 –  €40 (large ferries)
• Plitvice Lakes entrance: €10 – €40 (depending on the season)
• Dubrovnik City Walls:  €35 
• Truffle hunting tour:  €35 – €200
• Krka National Park entrance: €20 – €40 

There are a few convenient ways to get around Croatia, but if you stay near the city center, you’ll find that most cities are convenient and walkable. 

For longer distances, buses and ferries are quite popular. Or, if you really crave freedom, you may opt to rent your own vehicle.

Renting a car in Croatia is shockingly affordable (around €13 – €26 per day) and allows you the freedom to explore the natural wonders of Croatia without having to adhere to a schedule or timetable. 

Overall, the roads in Croatia are safe and easy to navigate making this an ideal spot for a road trip. However, because some of the roads can be twisty and locals tend to drive with a lead foot, be sure you’re a comfortable driver. For the best deals on car rentals and to compare prices, we recommend using Discover Cars . 

You’ll easily be able to snag an Uber in popular areas like Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split which can be a convenient way to get around. Ubers might not be available on the islands, but taxis are around.  Whenever traveling with Uber, always be mindful of your journey home. Sometimes Ubers are happy to take you to a remote location, but finding a ride back can be tricky. 

Traveling by ferry within Croatia is really convenient, affordable and makes island hopping a dream. There are two major ferry ports in Dubrovnik and Split and it takes about 4.5 hours to travel between the two. This will cost you around €30 –  €40. There are also smaller ferries that almost work like a public bus system connecting the smaller islands to the mainland. Prices for these ferries can range from €5 – €13. 

In recent years, Croatia has committed to improving their roadways, which has resulted in a fantastic public transport system. Although buses are usually a cheaper option, they aren’t always the quickest option—except in Croatia. 

You’ll be pleasantly surprised that the public buses in Croatia are both quick and inexpensive. With AC, WIFI  and comfy seats, you’ll be riding in style—er—as stylish as a public bus can get. 

There are a few major routes connecting the big cities and smaller ones that run between villages and towns. Therefore, prices can range anywhere from €1 to €25.

Ues Bookaway to search routes and purchase bus tickets in Croatia. 

Enjoy the freedom of waking up to some of the most scenic landscapes in Croatia by renting a campervan . This is becoming an increasingly popular way to explore some of the most magical spots in Croatia—ones that might not be accessible by public transport or within the constraints of a tour’s timetable. 

We are big fans of campervan travel and highly recommend this mode of transportation if you love adventure and straying from the beaten path a bit. 

Practical tips for traveling in Croatia

Whether it’s your first time traveling in Croatia or you’re a regular, it’s always helpful to keep in mind some helpful tips that can come in handy when you’re traveling. 

• Download a local eSIM. We recommend using Airalo . 
• Use public transportation. Not only is it an easy way to reduce your carbon footprint, the public transportation in Croatia (Ubers, buses, ferries) is accessible and cheap. 
• Check visa rules. If you’re from a non-Schengen area, you’ll be granted 90 days to visit. However, you must keep in mind this accumulates for time spent in all other countries in the Schengen Area in a rolling 180-day period.  
• Book ahead. This is especially important if you’re traveling during peak travel season because things will book out months in advance.
• Drive carefully. If you’re renting a car or a campervan, be sure you’re a comfortable driver and map out your routes ahead of time to avoid any added stress. 

Don’t make these mistakes when traveling to Croatia

We’re not writing this to discourage anyone from visiting this Mediterranean beauty. We tend to shy away from sharing when we don’t like a place. But I think we’ve pinpointed what it was that turned us off to Croatia at the top.

We hope by sharing our disappointment, it may help others come with more realistic expectations and avoid the mistakes that we made while traveling in Croatia.

There are a few things that affected our feelings about Croatia, and we made some big mistakes when we traveled there. Once you understand the mistakes we made, you will enjoy Croatia so much more!

1. Our expectations were high

For one thing, we had super high expectations. Back in 2009, Ben and I studied abroad in Italy . That was the first time I remember hearing about Croatia. 

A friend of mine went there and raved about the beaches, the lack of other tourists compared to neighboring Italy. She said it was cheap, “off the beaten path”, and beautiful. I’ve been dreaming about visiting Croatia ever since. You can probably guess where I’m going with this…

Have you ever visited a place that was so hyped up that even though you had a good time, you left feeling underwhelmed? 

That’s how we felt about Croatia. We had allotted 2 and a half weeks to visit Croatia, but ended up leaving early – something we rarely do when traveling (in fact, it’s almost always the opposite!).

2. It was PEAK tourist season

When we visited Croatia in July, it was packed with tourists everywhere you looked. Places that were described online as “hidden gems” had lines around the block.

The famed Plitvice Lakes that grace your Instagram feed are magical, yes, but some of that magic is diminished when you have to walk the wooden boardwalks behind long lines of people carrying selfie sticks.

And in Dubrovnik, you couldn’t walk a few minutes in the Old City without seeing one of the many corny “Game of Thrones” tours (complete with a guide dressed in chainmail and holding an iPad that was playing a scene from the show). 

Historic buildings had been turned into overpriced pirate-themed candy shops. It felt a bit like Disney World. And not in a good way.

I think a few years ago, these crowds didn’t exist to the extent that we experienced. But with photos of Croatia being an Instagram staple (I’m guilty of posting these too !) and with the exploding popularity of Croatia as a filming location for Game of Thrones, people are flocking to this Mediterranean country in hordes. Especially during the summer months. 

3. We didn’t budget correctly

Prices were much higher than any of the neighboring countries we visited (and with all the tourists there, I totally understand why). 

This is more on us than anything else, but we just didn’t have the right budget expectations to fully appreciate Croatia. If we raised our budget, we probably would have been able to enjoy ourselves a little more.

4. The people weren’t as friendly as the neighbors

On top of everything else, we’d just come from Bosnia & Herzegovina where the people were incredibly friendly, funny and excited to talk with us. Many of the people we met in Croatia were lacking in this department.

This isn’t to say we didn’t meet friendly Croatians – just the opposite. We had a few lovely guesthouse owners that were very kind, but the overall vibe just wasn’t as friendly as many of the countries we visited during our round-the-world trip – especially the neighboring countries.

5. Our feelings are relative

Our travels were bookended with visits in two countries that seriously surprised us: Bosnia and Slovenia . And it just so happened that Croatia fell in between.

Think of it this way: You go to a dinner party and speak with 3 people. The first (Bosnia) and the last (Slovenia) are humble and surprisingly interesting. You laugh, you cry. You listen to their stories and they listen to yours.

That person you speak with in between is perfectly nice. A little cocky, maybe. They are beautiful, but they know they are. Everyone in the party wants to talk to them, so you kind of just feel like you scratch the surface of really getting to know who they are. 

And when it comes time to leave the party, you reflect on the two fantastic conversations you just had. The one in the middle kind of fades away. Maybe if you hadn’t spoken with the other two party-goers, you would have really appreciated that middle convo a bit more. 

For better or worse, our opinions of people or places are heavily impacted by where we’ve just come from or where we’re going (literally and metaphorically). We just weren’t in a place to fully and wholeheartedly appreciate what Croatia had to offer.

6. We may have gone to the wrong places

This is a lesson we learn over and over again. 

The most popular destinations almost always leave us a bit disappointed. I’m sure anyone who has ever gone to the Leaning Tower of Pisa can relate. Cool tower, but that’s about it for Pisa. 

Maybe it was our route: Dubrovnik – Korčula – Split – Plitvice Lakes – Zagreb. We started off with a city that we really didn’t enjoy, and that sour taste lasted in our mouths for the rest of the country. 

We probably should have done some more research and found more off-the-beaten-path areas, but we were traveling so fast that we just defaulted to the easiest route. 

Would we go back to Croatia?

Yes, without a doubt. We would return in a heartbeat. 

There are a few places we already have in mind that we’d like to visit the second time around. These include some that our Director of Content, Amanda, has visited and wrote about in some of our other Croatia guides. 

We won’t deny that Croatia is absolutely breathtaking. Dubrovnik is as touristy as it is beautiful and Plitvice Lakes are a natural treasure.

Our advice to others visiting Croatia

Avoid peak tourist season. Period. Go somewhere else.

Budget quite a bit more money than you would for the rest of Eastern Europe. We knew Croatia would be one of the more expensive countries on our trip. But we didn’t think we would be seeing the same prices as Western Europe. 

Don’t make the mistake we did. You’ll enjoy yourself more if your budget has some wiggle room.

Have realistic expectations about crowds. Unless you visit during a totally off-peak time, Plitvice Lakes will be crowded. Dubrovnik may feel a bit like Disney World. If you go in knowing that there will be long lines and selfie sticks, you won’t be as disappointed as we were.

I’m sure there will be a few people who read this and think we’re crazy because they had a fantastic time in Croatia. And I know we rave about places that others may not like. Travel is personal. 

We try not to highly publicize when we don’t like a place because we truly believe that there are so many factors that can affect how much you like a particular city or country. But we also believe in honesty, and think that it’s okay not to fall in love with every place we visit. 

Our intention is not to discourage anyone from visiting Croatia, but instead to help set expectations and give you advice so you avoid some of our mistakes. We would definitely go back to Croatia; and knowing what we know now, we would most likely enjoy it much more.

How to book your trip to Croatia

Planning a trip to Croatia, whether long or short, can seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Take the stress out of planning by following these simple steps that’ll ensure you don’t forget anything. 

1. Decide where you want to go

Okay, this is definitely the hardest part of traveling, right? The looming feeling of trying to pack in every magical hike, every historical site, every restaurant … how!? We feel you, seriously. In our opinion, less is usually more. Choose a few of the best places to visit in Croatia and work backward from there. 

Once you’ve narrowed down the places you actually want to go, the rest becomes easy (and fun!). While we know this will differ based on your budget, time and interests, Croatia truly offers something for every type of traveler. 

2. Book your flights

As we all know, airfare is one of the priciest parts of traveling, so definitely check out our guide on how to find cheap flights before you book your trip to Croatia. Skyscanner is a great way to gauge prices and easily compare between airlines, days and flight times. We really love the ‘whole month’ feature, too, especially if you can be a little flexible with your dates. 

3. Book your accommodation

There are loads of options in terms of accommodation in Croatia suitable for a variety of budgets. Whether you’re looking to stay at a swanky beach-side villa, a quaint home-stay or a hostel, sites like Booking or Airbnb are your best bet in finding exactly what you’re looking for. 

4. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is a key component when planning a trip and we NEVER leave home without travel insurance. Honestly, it’s never a fun thing to pay for, but it is definitely worth it if something goes wrong and can put your mind at ease while you explore a new place. 

For a trip like this, we’d recommend Safety Wing insurance .

For more information on how to pick a policy and what we look for in travel insurance, check out our detailed travel insurance comparison article .

5. Start packing!

Now that you’ve got all the boring logistical stuff out of the way … it’s time to get packing for your trip. Whether you’re rolling, folding or using packing cubes, we’ve got a quick guide on what you don’t want to forget on your trip to Croatia. 

What to pack for visiting Croatia

Croatia experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, so be mindful of the time you travel when packing. Aside from clothes, here are some essential things you don’t want to leave at home. 

• Outlet adapter
• Back up credit cards 
• Comfortable walking shoes (your feet will thank you)
• Reusable straw & reusable bag (always!) 
• Reef safe sunscreen
• Swimwear (with over 3,000 miles of coastline, you’ll want to take a dip!)
• Light breathable clothing and plenty of layers 
• Camera and tripod ( this one is our favorite for travel)
• Insulated water bottle 
• Insect repellent (we prefer the natural stuff )

Are you planning a trip to Croatia?

We have lots of resources on travel in Croatia and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Croatia Travel Homepage  for everything you need to know, or start by reading some of our favorite Croatia articles here:

• Fun Things to Do in Dubrovnik + Advice for Traveling
• Plitvice National Park Guide: Ultimate Guide
• Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Split, Croatia + Travel Guide
• Krka National Park Croatia: Ultimate Visitor’s Guide

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We want to hear from you!

Are you planning a trip to Croatia and still have questions? Let us know if anything in this Croatia travel guide surprised you, or what you’re most excited about in the comments below!

Comments (41) on “ Croatia: A Completely Honest Travel Guide ”

Well why did you come during “peak months” and stayed at the most popular destinations, and also expect there will be no crowd and prices would be lower…??? This makes no sense.

Point of advice from a local Croatian living in Rijeka: stay in not-as-popular places and visit very popular places for a day, then go back to the not-as-popular place. Recommendations: Umag Motovun Labin old town Fuzine lake Ucka nature park Brijuni national park Cres Island (Lubenice beach) Island of Rab, with many beaches Risnjak National park City of Varazdin Last but not least, the City of RIJEKA!

hi and thank you for the great info on the blog. We are fellow Minnesotans traveling with small group next year. Any recommendations on where to fly in and out of in Croatia?

Thank you for all your advice and the honesty you share with us. It’s still a country I want to go to.

I want all the travel guides that you got,because I was thinking about travel throughout the globe sometime this year. So will you send me your travel guides to me,please.

I went in March, and it was sunny, warm enough to swim even, and none of the tourist hoards that swarm there in the high season.

I thought this blog post was hilarious. 20 percent of Croatia’s GDP comes from tourism so yeah there are going to be tourists there in July. Also Dubrovnik will probably be fine without the GoT fans… It’s great with honest reviews but they’re meaningless if the writer hasn’t bothered to find out basic facts about the country beforehand.

I think this article sealed the deal for me to not go. The only time I can go this year is in July and given the pandemic I’m not sure I want to be in crowds. The pandemic could translate into less tourists but I don’t think I want my first big overseas trip in 2 years to be a let down.

I truly hope you didn’t let this article dissuade you from visiting Croatia. I read this article before my trip and I was very disheartened but I found the exact opposite of this article to be true. We loved Croatia and it exceeded every expectation we had for it. We are almost 50 years old and our trip to Croatia was the best in our lives. My husband and I agree and we don’t always agree on everything. Honestly I think the people who wrote this article really just did everything wrong when visiting Croatia.

Hi Katie & Ben,

Thx so much for your comprehensive review! I found your blog while looking around for some ideas on doing a coastal Croatian trip for our 40th anniversary. I especially appreciated your 3 different budget types of lodging…so helpful. We’ve been to Croatia many times before, Dubrovnik, Split, etc. etc. but this time I wanted to do strictly coastal and end up exactly where you went – the northern region almost to Italy – the Istrian Peninsula. I heard it’s less crowded and you did confirm that. Now, about the people lol. My husband was born here so he’s a local, well sort of. I never speak English while we’re there and let him speak his native tongue and we get along just fine. We get that they just don’t have the best attitude in the world, but as some others have said, they probably hate all of the tourism. Thanks again for all the info…you really helped me out a lot!

Croatia is a small country full of negative, arrogant, and lazy people. I know because I lived there. Many people think that Croatians are hospitable and good people but the truth is most of that is fake and you have no idea what they are saying behind your back – if you don’t understand the language. Croates look down upon tourists, they feel that everyone is inferior to them and this stems frim a deep seeded jealousy they have for the rest of the world- especially those countries with normal economies where people travel. So they will have no problem to cheat you. They will smile to you but curse and make fun of you behind your back. I know because I understand the language but often spoke English when there. Yes, the nature is stunning but people are miserable. Keep that in mind.

Hi Alex, thanks for sharing your opinion. However, in our experience, we had lovely interactions with Croatians. As with any society, there will be people who are not as nice, but from our travels, we have nothing but good things to say about the people of Croatia.

I could not agree more with your review of Croatia. As a Croatian, living in Canada over 20 years now, I stopped visiting the country as often as I used to. You summed up pretty much everything I have been thinking for years now and although preparation and expectations go a long way, some destinations need less of those in order for one to enjoy the destination. I will preface my comment by saying that I have been vacationing in Croatia for pretty much every two years and there have been some major changes that will prevent me from going back soon. The main one are the prices. I get expensive, since I live in Toronto, one of the most expensive cities in North America. The problem is the value. For example, we rented a yacht last summer and visited tons of little islands. The prices were exorbitant and before anyone says that is normal for island pricing, I have been to plenty of other places, where this wasn’t the case. In Lisbon or Barcelona, you can get a cup of fresh fruit for 1 or 2 Euros (berries and cherries), while Croatia would sell the same type of fruit cup (cheaper selection like watermelon and honeydew and grapes mix) for 5 or 6 euros. Rudeness was at an all time high in places of official business, the public transit and connection between cities is abysmal and overpriced, plus finding information in places that are frequented by tourists can be a challenge and I do not even want to get into what happens when you travel to smaller places. Most restaurants serve the same fare or a slight variation of it. We ate in some fine dining places and also in some regular joints, and overall the experience has been underwhelming. Way too expensive for what it is and also the quality of food declined drastically over the years. I am assuming lot of places have a high turnover and might not care about the returning customers, and yet lot of dishes were particularly bland and just too expensive. Renting anything, you will pay through an arm and a nose. Bike fees are obscenely expensive, as are cab fares. Due to the high increase in tourist numbers, it seems that every Joe is trying to capitalize on the opportunity and rents rooms and apartments. Again, price – value ratio is disappointing. Some of the accommodation prices we had to laugh at, since they thought they were renting at the Four Seasons, but instead you were getting the most recent Ikea dress-up. Public smoking seems to be ubiquitous, and it is really hard to avoid smoke everywhere you go. On one of the ferries we took, the crew was smoking on the dock, despite prohibition signs and then tossed the cigarette butts into the sea. Pollution and garbage everywhere, including the sea, made me question how clean some of the beaches are. I am comparing it to previous years and some garbage piles have net been cleaned in years.

Having said all of that, I can share few tips from travelling abroad over the years.

• Avoid places like Split or Dubrovnik in high season
• Smaller Dalmatian islands like Vis or Hvar are great, and less crowded. Stay away from the main ports and pick other parts of the island for a more relaxing stay
• Rent a car if you can
• Rely on several sources for official information. It is very common to give incorrect info and this can vary from one representative to another.
• Eat where locals eat. This usually means moderately priced places and places that are rarely located by the marina
• Bring reusable water bottle. The amount of plastic wasted is sad, and never buy bottled water in Croatia. Croatia ranks as one of the highest countries when it comes to water drinking quality.
• Money exchange rates are similar in the tourist spots and post offices have one of the best exchange rates, even better than banks.
• Lot of bus stations don’t have anyone announcing anything, so it is very common to ask the driver if the bus is the right bus, since sometimes the labels on the buses can be incorrect.
• Bakeries are very often the best option for a fast and cheap meal on the go.
• Lot of places don’t accept debit or credit cards, so always have cash on you.

This turned out to be a longer post than I originally anticipated. In conclusion, Croatia is an amazing place to visit, the nature is truly breathtakingly beautiful, but please be wary that it is not cheap or undiscovered. This was maybe true 20 years ago, but not anymore.

Croatian expat here. I have to go every summer for holidays in Croatia to spend some time with the family and I’m even more annoyed about the prices, the crowds and rude locals. But I also know where to go and how to avoid it. The biggest mistake travellers like you make is thinking Croatia is eastern Europe or "balkans". It’s not. It’s always been (well besides the dark era or communist occupation) a Central European and Mediterranean society. So you should compare it as such. Rapid increase of tourists drives certain behaviours everywhere. But then again towns like Dubrovnik, Hvar and others are unique. their historical, cultural value plus the beauty justifies the price you need to pay to see them. Tourists shouldn’t expect some 3rd world shithole where their 100 bucks or euros will make them Kings. I don’t want our country to be overrun by cheap backpackers and cruisers . It spoils it for everyone.

Croatia is not the Balkans?? That’s a story Croates maybe tell themselves because they hate the fact, but Croatia is as Balkan as it gets.

The reason why people in Croatia, or more specifically Split and Dubrovnik, are not as friendly as the "neighbours" lies in the fact that locals are just absolutely inundated and fed up with mass tourism and the type of tourists their cities get. The old town of Split has in the past years lost hundreds of its inhabitants cos people have lost access to basic necessities in the centre and are abused night and day by groups of drunken tourists pissing at their doorsteps, vomiting under their windows, screaming and in general, acting like complete morons. Every shack downtown has turned into a shitty and overpriced pizza and burger place or an almost Michelin-star restaurant, neither of which the locals can afford. If that wasn’t enough, from April until October there’s at least 2 cruise ships daily docked in the harbour, each with thousands of passengers that just clog the already overwhelmed city, and who bring absolutely no value to the economy. People are bursting at the seams, they can’t function normally in their daily life and they are also being priced out of their homes, as everybody decided to squeeze whatever little buck out of tourism they can. And so on, and so on.

Well said, my friend. I can’t even imagine what the streets look like when passengers from the ships go on land. And that’s in addition to other tourists. And yes, I like it what you said about people wanna be kings for $100. That kind of money won’t buy you much anywhere else, why would anyone expect a lot in such touristy country. And people complaining about Dubrovnik and GoT. Lol. Go anywhere else and every town in the world promotes best what they can. I can’t even imagine what it is like for locals to be overrun by tourists who pee everywhere and vomit yet don’t leave a dime. A little respect goes long way, in my humble opinion. You get what you give. On the other side, just fir fun I Google Croatia sometimes and I always get the same towns in search engines. It’s like Croatia is nothing more but Dubrovnik and Split, how annoying. There’s so much more to see if you know where to go, and probably fir a lot less money.

Hi! Thanks so much for all the information. We’re planning a small wedding in Split and are debating restaurants for our reception (small is very small, ie 6 people including us). Our planner recommended Bokeria which looks like it has great food but seating looks a little communal and not private. Were there any more private seating options there or would you recommend we look elsewhere. Sorry for the random message but appreciate your input!!

Thanks for sharing all your information! I’m sorry the people aren’t friendly in Croatia. I have a friend that’s from there and she’s darling! She says it deoends where you go and what you do ..I don’t know never been.bit it looks beautiful! Great pictures as well ! Happy travels to you! Oh didn’t you get any massages while travelling? I always do so I can stay relaxed and enjoy my trip ! ?

Thanks for the tips – they are great! Can I ask how many days you spent in Croatia with this itinerary?

I would like to say that Croatia is cheaper than Slovenia!

An interesting article and sensible tips. I am going to visit Croatia in the near future, and your article helped me figure out some points. Great photos. Thank. Good luck.

I totally agree with you guys, having just coming back from Croatia. I didn’t have that high of an expectation but I didn’t really think it was that amazing either (also wanted to starting heading back). It was the same price as many other western european cities but without the infrastructure.. I loved the island (Hvar) but that was about it. It’s definitely not one of my favorite countries in Europe.

What a guide, being a best tours providers in Croatia we completely agreed what you are trying to state here…

Appreciate the review. I am hoping to go in September a little off the busy season, I was wondering if you think one day is enough for Plitvice Lakes?

Honest review is much appreciated. I must say, as a local, I agree with most of your thoughts.

Thank you so much for your comment. It’s always good to get a local’s opinion!

I have travelled to Croatia many times over the last ten years from Australia as it became one of my favourite places in the world after my first visit. The towns of Split and Dubrovnik are busy in July and August however in my opinion people overstate this as all the beautiful places in the world are busy, ie French Riviera, Amalfi Coast, Dalmatian Coast and places like Mykonos and Santorini. I for one don’t mind the Crowds other than when Cruise ships are around which you may have encountered in Dubrovnik. They are normally gone by 6pm. There are places that are off the beaten track in Croatia that are stunning and if you want smaller crowds go in June or September. But places like Vis island and Island of Murter are beautiful and not overcrowded during peak season. There is still a good vibe and not too sleepy. Also small cities of Sibenik and Zadar are stunning as is Rovinj and places like Opatilja. Croatia is also a lot cheaper in shoulder season. I’m an avid traveller and blog reader and surprisingly the only time I’ve read a blogger write a negative review is when they are a budget traveller, backpacker or nomadic traveller and the first place they visit in Croatia is Dubrovnik. It’s as if they expect these cheap third world prices not realising they are coming to some of the most stunning and classy old towns in the entire world.

Hey Dan, thanks for your detailed comment. Love hearing about more cities to explore in Croatia, especially ones that are not as crowded. During our trip to Croatia, we were on a year-long trip so we were traveling on a budget, and were slightly surprised but the prices in Croatia compared to neighboring countries. Just want to set expectations straight for other travelers and share our experience so they are prepared.

Hi! I stumbled upon your site while researching for our 2019 trip to Croatia and Slovenia. I appreciate the candid feedback and helps solidify my decision to skip a few of the "must see" towns. It’s hard to skip when you don’t know when/if you’ll make it back, but I know it’s not what we like to do when we travel. It will give us more time to explore wine country.

Glad we could help, Mandy. It is tricky choosing cities sometimes, but you have travel according to your travel style and not just because places are marked as “must see” spots. Have a great trip!

Katie and Ben, Just finished reading about your Croatia trip. First time to see your site. Feedback: You did a good job! Don’t be overly concerned about offering candid opinions based upon your experiences. Even when they may be negative. Travel is like beauty – "In the eyes of the beholder". It is refreshing to read a site that avoid hype and focuses on being honest, even if you sounded somewhat apologetic for not loving Croatia. What is most important is truth in travel. Keep at it.- Costas Christ, Editor at Large, National Geographic Traveler

Wow, we are honored at such a compliment from you, Costas. We always aim to be honest, even if it’s not the easiest way to write. We appreciate honesty when we read other blogs, and we hope others feel the same when they read our writing. Thank you for taking the time to comment.

Thank you for your advice! We are planning a trip to Croatia and plan to use a few tidbits learned from what you’ve mentioned here.

You are very welcome Emily! Let us know if you have any more questions about traveling to Croatia.

I definitely appreciate your honesty! Great tips and advice and words of caution. 😉

Great article, thanks for the tips!

Indeed, Croatia is indeed home to many amazing sights and sounds, but in this beautiful land also lie some tourist-targeting scammers. Do be wary of the hostess bar scam, beach thieves, overcharging restaurants, pickpocketing, flat tire scam, overcharging taxi drivers, holiday apartment scam, car rental scam, border scam and many more!

It’s always good to travel with common sense, David, so thanks for that reminder. We didn’t experience any of these scams while in Croatia (even during busy season). It’s good to be aware, but not to worry about traveling in Croatia.

You’ve numbered the main problems regarding your trip to Croatia: thinking it is still an "undiscovered gem", that you’ve mostly stayed within the most touristy locations and that you had way too high expectations. Croatia is having a huge influx of tourists for the last several years and many people think that it’s still not that discovered, which isn’t true. This year it will be visited by around if not more than 20 million people. Have in mind that the country itself has only a bit over 4 million inhabitants. Also, people read blogs like this that rave about the country and have unrealistic expectations that sometimes can be hard to meet. Especially when you travel in the middle of the summer when the number of visitors can be off-putting. That being said, one needs to do some homework before the trip to know what more or less to expect and not to get unpleasantly surprised and enjoy their visit to Croatia.

Thank you Mario for basically summarizing what we stated in the article. We acknowledged that our expectations were off and wrote this article to inform others so they don’t have the same experience as us. We really liked traveling in Croatia and encourage others to go there as well. We would love to go back during an shoulder or off season.

Hello Ben and Katie,

fantastic and honest article. I agree with everything you write about Croatia. I had to smile about your "high expectations". 😉

My family and I used to travel to Istria in Croatia every summer for, well, at least 5 years? I think the last time we spent our holiday there was maybe in 2011? I remember it to be always crowded, even though we stayed in a small fishermen’s village, not really a big player in the touristic landscape of Croatia. Still, the beach was packed with tourists, families,… but beautiful though. The reason could be, that many Germans and Austrians go there in summer, because it’s nearby, easy to reach and (still) cheaper than Spain or Italy. Sooo july & august, or summer in general isn’t really a great time to explore Croatia.

Though, I have beautiful memories of that country as well. We used to drive around the countryside – and one time, by chance, we came by an old, very small village. It was in the middle of nowhere. Located on a hill and surrounded by the remains of a medieval fortress. The houses and streets were made of stone – and there was absolutely nobody far and wide. So calm. By the time the landscape darkened, it was a cloudy day, and this gave the whole scenery the final touch 😉 I don’t remember the name of that place, but it was somewhere in the middle of Istria.

Hope you’ll go back someday (not in summer!) and have a great time, maybe you can still find some hidden treasures. <3

all the best for your future-journeys,

Kathi from nomadenleben.tumblr.com

Hi Kathi, that sounds like a lovely memory of Croatia, so peaceful and charming. And don’t get us wrong, we would love to travel back to Croatia, but you’re right, we probably won’t go in the summer again. Thanks for your comment.

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9 Best Places to Visit in Croatia, According to Locals

Here's how to see the best of Croatia, from under-the-radar islands to stunning forests and hilltop towns.

The coast of Croatia gets all the love — and though I was born and raised in the country, even I set my gaze on the Adriatic Sea whenever I visit. You can't deny the beauty of hotspots like Dubrovnik and Split, but busy locales like these can also mean crowds, stressed-out service, and little sense of discovery, especially during the peak summer season.

Thankfully, Croatia has more than 1,200 islands you can escape to, as well as coastal towns that remain off the radar, plus a majestic interior that spans idyllic pastoral landscapes and mighty mountains where wildlife roams in nature. There's a lot to see and do — and love — beyond the go-to tourist destinations as well. Here's my list of some of the best places to visit in Croatia.

Jadranko Markoc / Getty Images

For the longest time, Croatia's capital was mostly skipped in favor of more popular destinations down south. That started changing a few years ago, when visitors got wind of the numerous delights this pocket-size metropolis has to offer, including its buzzing art scene and the colorful Christmas market that helped put this city on the wintertime map. Advent festivities, typically held throughout December and into early January, feature alfresco merriment, live music, and street food all around Zagreb's city center, including its ancient Upper Town.

For the plushest place to stay, pick the grand Esplanade Zagreb Hotel , which blends Art Deco flair with the latest modern-day comforts, and serves iconic and traditional štrukli (cottage cheese dumplings) at its restaurant, Le Bistro .

Gorski Kotar

GoranStimac / Getty Images

While the country's coast may be one of the best places to visit in Croatia for local residents and visitors alike, general interest in the great outdoors has spiked in recent years. Enter Gorski Kotar, Croatia's answer to Switzerland, a forested expanse of mountain wilderness that lies southwest of Zagreb, en route to the coast of Kvarner.

This verdant region has become the "it" destination lately, especially for city dwellers looking for an easy-to-reach pocket of pristine nature. Wolves, bears, and the endangered Eurasian lynx can be spotted roaming through Risnjak National Park . Gorski Kotar also offers a number of chic cabins and lodges to rent, such as the spectacular Casa Nube and the adorable Gorska Bajka . Don't miss the chance to indulge in a meal of wild edibles and game meats at the Vagabundina Koliba (Vagabond's Cabin) mountain hut, where the nettle bread is a real treat.

Wilfried Krecichwost / Getty Images

A string of sweet little seaside towns may line Istria, the heart-shaped peninsula in Croatia's northern Adriatic, but Rovinj steals the show for its storybook beauty. The area is so stunning it tends to get regularly jam-packed with visitors between June and September, so the locals will generally try to avoid it that time of year.

It's best to head to Rovinj outside of that busy season, ideally in October or from April to May. Book a stay at the ultra-sleek Grand Park Hotel Rovinj , one of Croatia's most luxurious properties. An architectural stunner with a cascading structure that slopes down to the sea in a twine of fragrant garden terraces, the hotel showcases impressive views of Rovinj's Old Town , with its cobbled piazzas and steep lanes leading up to St. Euphemia Church , a baroque beauty with a copper statue-topped campanile.

At the hotel's fabulous Albaro Wellness & Spa , try the Batana Bodywork treatment, which involves using a stimulating combination of hemp balm, a traditional Rovinj boat's batana oar, and intense rowing motions to massage your sore spots. A meal at the property's Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant is a sensory adventure, as is a walk around the protected forest park of Punta Corrente (Golden Cape), located nearby. And don't leave without checking out the hotel's secret art room.

Inland Istria

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While first-time visitors to Istria , easily one of the best places to visit in Croatia, make a beeline for the coast, those in the know swear by the peninsula's green interior. And as soon as you hit those curvy country roads — winding their way through the woods, vineyards and olive groves — you'll see why. It's easy to swoon over the area's bucolic charm, home to medieval towns strewn across the hilltops, and shady forests where prized truffles hide.

Luxury villa rentals tucked away in the Istria countryside are increasingly becoming popular hideaways. Take Stanzia Vinella , a renovated and formerly abandoned hamlet turned rustic-chic retreat, with Wabi-Sabi–inspired interiors and an infinity pool that overlooks the postcard-perfect town of Motovun on the hill just across the way. For a meal of Istrian mainstays, book ahead at Toklarija , an age-old olive-mill-turned-tavern on the hilltop overlooking the village of Sovinjsko Polje.

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Few visitors to Croatia pay heed to the coastal city of Šibenik in central Dalmatia; it usually tends to get overshadowed by Split, located just an hour to the south, and, of course, Dubrovnik. What visitors are missing is a true seaside gem, one of a handful of cities in the world with two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: St. James Cathedral , a domed basilica built entirely of stone between 1431 and 1535, and the Venetian-era St. Nicholas Fortress , situated on an islet across from the old town.

Šibenik is also home to a number of charming heritage hotels, including boutique Armerun , which opened in summer 2021 along the seafront just steps from the cathedral, and Pelegrini , a seasonal restaurant graced with a Michelin star, where owner and chef Rudi Štefan conjures up some of Croatia's most innovative cuisine. Don't miss a visit to St. Michael's Fortress and Barone Fortress , each known for their alfresco concerts and dazzling panoramas.

Close to Šibenik, the island of Zlarin is best known for its exquisite handmade red coral jewelry. It was also the first island in Croatia to eliminate single-use plastics back in 2019; in the summer of 2021, it was joined by the nearby island of Krapanj as part of a special "Archipelago Without Plastic" campaign.

Locals head here for its beautiful beaches, which may have pebbles in place of sand but offer clear, warm waters perfect for swimming, floating, and snorkeling. Other popular waterfront activities include sea kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding, while landlubbers can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing. The island is car-free, giving you the perfect excuse to explore it by bike or on foot. Accommodations are few and far between, with just one hotel and a limited amount of apartments available for rent, so during more crowded times of the year (like summer), it might be worth staying nearby in Šibenik and visiting Zlarin as part of a day trip instead.

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Located just off the coast of Zadar, the island of Silba is a car-free, hotel-free paradise that tends to be frequented by those in the know. You'll note a distinct Boho, offbeat vibe, where the creatives of Croatia prefer to hide away in summertime. It’s also a stellar choice for families, as little ones can run around barefoot and carefree.

Be sure to book your accommodations way ahead of time, as rooms can fill up quickly here. And don't miss the chance to enjoy a sunset dinner of freshly caught seafood at Konoba Alavija . Spend your days sunbathing or playing volleyball, basketball, or tennis at the island's busiest beach, Sotorišce, known for its clear, shallow waters. Under the water, the archaeological ruins of an ancient sarcophagus , estimated to be more than 1,500 years old, can be seen just off the shore of Pocukmarak Bay.

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Hvar island may already be on everyone's list of the best places to visit in Croatia, but that spotlight mostly shines on Hvar town, which is known for its funky beach party scene. More artsy and low-key, Stari Grad, located along the island's northern side, has been coming into its own lately as an alternative Hvar base — and for all the right reasons.

For starters, Stari Grad has two World Heritage sites: The Stari Grad Plain , with its striking farm landscape that has been cultivated since ancient Greek times, and an old town that dates back to 384 B.C.E. On top of that, Maslinica Bay, just steps from the ferry dock, is home to the chic Maslina Resort , featuring Asian-Mediterranean fusion flair and design and a spa with "garden to skin" treatments that showcase herbs from the resort's organic garden.

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Taking a trip to Pag is comparable to taking a trip to the moon. The island is well known for its barren, lunar-like landscapes, as well as for the epic parties that take over the beaches of Zrće come summertime. But beyond the raucous revelry, the island is home to one of Croatia's loveliest family-run hotels, Boškinac , which sports an award-winning winery and a Michelin-starred restaurant within a beautifully renovated stone building surrounded by olive groves and vineyards, just inland from the coastal town of Novalja.

Pag is also known for its fragrant, hard, and strong sheep's milk cheeses. Gligora Dairy , which keeps racking up awards internationally, offers tastings of this local delicacy. While on Pag, check out the Pag Triangle — a mysterious land formation near Novalja that's rumored to be the site of a UFO landing — and the walkway through the ancient olive groves of Lun , where most of the trees are as many as 1,500 years old.

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One Week in Croatia: Ultimate 7 Day Croatia Itinerary

So you want to visit Croatia? Honestly, great choice. This country is ridiculously beautiful, with waterfalls, a gorgeous coastline, and cute old towns . Whether your trip is a couple days or a couple weeks, you’ll have a good time. For a first-time visit, however, I think a full week is perfect . That’s why I put together this one week Croatia itinerary. With seven full days in Croatia, you’ll hit all the can’t miss spots and get a good idea of the country.

Croatia Travel Itinerary Overview

Or, jump straight to the actual Croatia itinerary here .

Seven Day Croatia Itinerary Summary

For a first-time visit to Croatia, I recommend spending a sizable amount of time on the coast. Croatia is best known for its coastline, after all! But if flying into Croatia from abroad, the capital city of Zagreb will likely be your first point of entry.

So, I recommend taking advantage of Zagreb’s proximity to Plitvice Lakes and spending one week in Croatia like below.

* If you don’t mind changing accommodation one more time, I highly recommend you stay overnight in Hvar instead of Split on nights 4 and 5 of this one week Croatia itinerary. Not only will it save you around 5 or 6 hours total of boat/bus rides, but staying on the island of Hvar is magical . But I totally understand if you prefer not to move around so much within one week. So the choice is yours ! This itinerary explains both options.

If you’re the typical traveler with limited vacation days, I suggest breaking down your week in Croatia like below. This way, you only need to use five vacation days , but you actually get seven full days in Croatia.

Why does it work out that way? For those of you traveling from North America, when you depart for Croatia on a Saturday, you will land in Croatia Sunday morning. And when you depart from Croatia on a Sunday, you will land back in North America Sunday afternoon or evening. Those of you traveling from Europe will just get an extra full or half day on Saturday!

The Best Time of Year to Visit Croatia

As this itinerary (and most every Croatia itinerary) focuses on the coast, the best time to visit Croatia is definitely during warmer weather. Specifically, I recommend the shoulder seasons of late May – early June and September – early October .

This allows you to enjoy everything in amazing weather, but you can avoid the extreme crowds that some cruise-ship cities like Dubrovnik experience in the summer. Aiming for September – October in particular will give the waters all summer to get warmer, though the Adriatic Sea is definitely more-than-bearable by even early May.

The Best Way to Get Around Croatia

Unlike nearby Italy , Croatia is not an easy country to travel by train . So, you need to either rent a private car or stick to public buses and ferries.

Car rentals in Croatia are actually quite affordable, but only if renting a manual transmission (i.e. stick shift) car.

Thus, this Croatia itinerary guides you through the beautiful country solely using buses and ferries . I include all the details, such as bus and ferry stations, prices, and trip duration for each time you’ll use public transport to move around Croatia. I’ve got you covered!

You can absolutely still do this exact same itinerary with your own car rental. However, I must say I was pleasantly surprised how clean, comfortable, and free-WiFi-offering buses and ferries in Croatia are . Also, a plus side of traveling Croatia without a car rental is no looking for parking and no filling up gas.

Money in Croatia

Croatian currency.

Croatia is in Europe. It is also in the EU. But for many years, it was not in the Eurozone or the Schengen area. But as of January 1, 2023, that has changed! Now Croatia’s currency is the euro , not the kuna. Also, the days you spend in Croatia will count towards your 90 visa-free days in the Schengen area per 180 day period, if you come from a country whose passport allows that. If you don’t, Croatia now is included in the area you can travel with your Schengen visa.

Credit Cards in Croatia

Credit cards are accepted in Croatia by hotels and by many restaurants, but it will be difficult to get through the entire one week in Croatia without using cash. So, you definitely will want to have some euros on hand in Croatia. This will be how you pay for smaller attraction entries, bus rides you purchase on board, and meals in certain restaurants.

Is Croatia Expensive?

Croatia has had the reputation of a budget travel destination for some years. It was a European destination considered off-the-beaten-path, and the prices relating to tourist activities reflected that. It also used to help that Americans and Euro-zone-country visitors faced a favorable exchange rate for kunas.

But in recent years, Croatia is becoming more and more popular to visit. Thus, its travel-related costs are rising quickly relative to its neighboring Balkan countries. Croatia is not “cheap” like it used to be , at least in the popular destinations making up most itineraries. That being said, I still would not classify Croatia as expensive .

AND NOW, LET’S GET TO THE ACTUAL ITINERARY ITSELF

Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia . Croatia’s interior isn’t what tourists usually come to see, but since you are flying into Zagreb, take a day to walk around and shake off any jet lag. This inland region is known to be the culinary core of the country as opposed to the coast. So try some truffle and oil-based meals before the rest of the week, which will be filled with seafood from the coast.

Zagreb is also close to Croatia’s top tourist attraction, Plitvice Lakes National Park, which you will visit on day two. So Zagreb also serves as a convenient base from which to head there.

How to Get to Zagreb

As the starting point of your Croatia trip, you will need to fly into Zagreb. Zagreb’s international airport is Zagreb Franjo Tuđman Airport (ZAG) . To get from ZAG airport to the city center, you have two options.

• Option 1: Take a bus. From ZAG, you can take the Pleso Prijevoz airport shuttle bus to the Zagreb city center for €6 ($6) one way. You can find the schedule and purchase tickets in advance at the official site . You can also ride the Zagreb Electric Tram (ZET) bus line 290. This should cost around €2 ($2) if bought on board and the ride should be around 35 minutes.
• Option 2: Take a taxi. Taxis from ZAG are not a fixed fare. The price ranges from €10 – €33 ($12 – $40), and you should confirm the estimated fare range before getting in. You can find the official taxis in the Passenger Terminal, near the ground floor arrivals. The drive should take around 30 minutes.

Things to Do in Zagreb (One Day)

Since this is the day your flight lands, take it easy. Zagreb is home to many museums, shopping malls, and cafes, but you should focus on the key highlights with just one day here.

• Ban Jelačić Square : This is the central square in Zagreb.
• St. Mark’s Church : This iconic church boasts a colorfully tiled roof and is one of Zagreb’s oldest buildings.
• Zagreb Cathedral : This beautiful Gothic-style cathedral is actually the tallest building in Croatia.
• Lotrščak Tower : A fortified tower built to protect the south city gate, this tower offers sweeping views over Zagreb from the top. 
• Dolac Market : This colorful, open-air market is open daily, but try to enjoy it on a Saturday morning if you can!
• Stone Gate : Now a shrine of sorts, this gate was apparently burned in a fire centuries – all except for a painting of the Virgin Mary and Child.

Plitvice Lakes National Park

As Croatia’s top tourist attraction , you absolutely should not miss a day in Plitvice Lakes National Park. With wooden walkways and comfortable hiking trails taking visitors right up past the cascading falls, Plitvice is a turquoise dream land .

How to Get to Plitvice from Zagreb

Get on a bus from Zagreb at Autobusni Kolodvor Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park. The bus will be a large, comfortable coach bus, and it even has good WiFi inside. The ride should take 2.5 hours and cost around €10 ($12). Look up timetables and even book tickets online ahead of time here . Otherwise, you can show up to the station and buy tickets in person.

Once you arrive at the park, expect an entry fee of around €40 ($47) from June to September. If visiting Plitvice any other time of year, expect €24 ($28) in April, May, and September, and €11 ($13) in winter. Check fees and even book ahead online here .

If you buy tickets at the door, look for the little booth across the wooden bride near Gate 2, not in the car park. There is free luggage hold at both entrances to the park, so leave your luggage here while you explore.

Things to Do in Plitvice (One Day)

First things first, because I know you are thinking it. No, you cannot swim in the waters at Plitvice !

The main thing to do in Plitvice Lakes National Park is to walk the trails , which takes the better part of a day. Definitely stop by the information center at the entrance to get an overview of the day before starting. They can explain the trail routes, the train ride back at the end, the ferry ride in the middle, and where to buy food if you haven’t packed your own.

Split is Croatia’s second largest city, the largest city along the Dalmatian coast, and my personal favorite destination of this itinerary . It boasts a stunning old town, which is essentially the remains of Roman Emperor Diocletian’s palace from back in the 4th century. Split is also the perfect jumping-off point to enjoy some of Croatia’s best islands, and has even served as backdrop to some Game of Thrones scenes. I’m sure you’ll love Split!

How to Get to Split from Plitvice Lakes

( Pssst : You’ll actually be doing this transfer from Plitvice to Split on the same day that you visited Plitvice. Then, the next morning, you’ll wake up in Split to start your full day there. Just scroll back up to the itinerary summary at the top of this page if you’re confused!)

After finishing your day at the Plitvice Lakes National Park, grab your luggage and hop on a bus headed for Split. The bus should depart from the same area you were dropped off this morning, but you can double-check with the information desk to be certain. The bus ride from Plitvice to Split should take 4 – 4.5 hours if departing in the mid-to-late afternoon and cost €18 – €22 ($21 – $26).

I recommend buying this ticket ahead of time online , since you obviously cannot buy it from the arrival bus station in Split in person yet.

Things to Do in Split (One Day)

• Diocletian’s Palace : It’s impossible to miss this one, since it’s the entire old town!
• City cellars : This was a filming spot for Game of Thrones! But when it’s not cleared out for filming, it’s a market where you can souvenir shop.
• Temple of Jupiter : This was originally a Roman temple dedicated to the god Jupiter.
• Cathedral of St. Domnius : Climb up the bell tower. Entry should be 2 USD or 2 EUR.
• Peristyle : This is the main public square where any city tours you take likely begin. Definitely visit here at night. It’s lit up and a totally different vibe than in the day.
• Brace Radica Square : This is a very picturesque, smaller square.
• Milesi Palace : This is another lovely square, regarded as one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Dalmatia.
• Marjan Hill : This is a hill-side park with great views over Split. You can walk or bike around, or you can grab a drink or snack at the cafe.
• Riva : This is the seafront area of Split.

There’s nothing more Croatian than a beautiful island , so you can’t leave Croatia before seeing at least a couple of them! On this seven day Croatia itinerary, you’ll start with the most popular island to visit , which is the island of Hvar. More specifically – the town of Hvar Town. With impressively clear water, orange rooftops, and an imposing Spanish fortress, Hvar Town is the picture perfect island destination.

How to Get to Hvar Town from Split

First, you will need to head to the Split Jadrolinija ferry terminal and catch a ferry stopping at Hvar island . The ride takes 1 hour, and the ferries depart from right near the bus terminal where you first arrived into Split. There are several different ferries and catamarans stopping at different ports in Hvar. The schedule differs through the week and throughout the year. You can look up the ferry schedule in advance online , or check it out in person at the terminal on one of the previous days you used the Split bus station.

If there is a ferry stopping at the port of “Hvar,” this will be directly to where you want to go; Hvar Town . But there is a good chance the morning boats will instead be heading to “Stari Grad,” another port on the island of Hvar. From Stari Grad, you will need to take a short cab ride to Hvar Town. Taxis will be waiting at the port, so find some other travelers heading to Hvar Town (most will be) and split the price of the taxi.

If you are staying the night in Split, once you arrive in Hvar Town, purchase your return ticket to Split from the Hvar Town ferry ticket office. You do not have to go back through Stari Grad. 

Things to Do in Hvar Town (One Day)

• Spanjola Fortress : Hvar’s Spanish Fortress offers the best view in town – that cliche one in all the brochures! It would be a shame to come to Hvar Town and not to enjoy it.
• Venetian Loggia and Clock Tower : A beautiful display of Renaissance architecture.
• St. Stephen’s Square : As the main square in Hvar Town, you will inevitably pass by without even trying. In the square is also St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
• Go to the beach : The closest beaches to Hvar Town are by no means the best on the island, but walk a short ways from the harbor, and you do find some decent options. Two close ones are Križna Luka and Pokonji dol Beach.
• Rent a motorbike : There is a lot more to the island of Hvar than Hvar Town, so renting a motorbike will allow you to ditch the beaten path and explore less crowded beaches and parts of the island.
• Rent a bicycle : For those of us unable to rent a motorbike, renting a normal bike is the next best thing. It allows you to get a little further from Hvar Town’s harbor and enjoy some of the beaches and beach clubs nearby.

Island Hopping Tour

In order to see a variety of what the area has to offer in a short amount of time, you can book an island hopping tour. They are advertised all over Split and Hvar (especially in the tourist offices) for something like €120. Alternatively, you can also booking this type of tour in advance online through things like AirBnb experiences.

I did this type of tour on my first trip to Croatia, and it was my top favorite thing of my trip . I was very reluctant about the price at first, especially because it was May. I didn’t know if the weather would cooperate or that the water was warm enough to swim in. In the end, I loved the tour and only wished there were more hours in a day.

Our tour group included two bay boats that could fit around 8 people each. We started in Split* in the morning around 8:30am. We returned as the sun was setting around 6:30pm, after hitting all the below sites:

• Blue Grotto (or Cave) : A natural sea cave on Bisevo island whose waters glow blight blue from light coming through an underwater opening.
• Green Grotto : Another cave similar to the Blue Grotto, but green and located on the southern side of Vis island
• Stiniva Bay : One of Croatia’s most famous beaches and located on Vis Island, but sadly the tour just does a drive-by stop to look and snap pics rather than stop and get out.
• Lunchtime and swimming on a smaller island.
• Swimming on a different smaller island.
• Hvar Town : You get about 1.5 hours to explore, which honestly is enough time to just “see” the town.

* If you are doing this from Hvar instead (which I recommend), the departure time will be later and the arrival time will be earlier (because Hvar is closer). So, more time to sleep in – yay!

Thanks to Game of Thrones and Star Wars , this little walled city by the sea has boomed in tourism. Add that to all the cruise ships that stop here, and you’ve got yourself a very crowded little town in the summer. But in the mornings and the evenings after the day trippers have left, you’ll be able to enjoy Dubrovnik, its cute alleyways, and spectacular Adriatic views a bit more.

How to Get to Dubrovnik

You have two options for getting from Split* to Dubrovnik without a car. Either way, it will take 4 – 5 hours to get to Dubrovnik from Split. So, your first day in Dubrovnik will be a half day.

• Option 1: Take a ferry . From the Split Jadrolinija ferry terminal, hop on a ferry headed towards Dubrovnik. The schedule varies based on day of the week and time of the year. Some days, ferries to Dubrovnik do not run at all. So check the ferry schedule online before your trip.
• Option 2: Take a bus . From the Split bus terminal, hop on a coach bus heading towards Dubrovnik. This will cost around $19 or €16. Make sure to get off the bus at the “Pile Gate/Old Town” bus stop . I recommend you sit on the right side of the bus if possible, to get views of the coast on the whole ride down. The bus drives through the country of Bosnia and Herzegovina, so you will need your passport handy onboard.

* If you decide to stay the night in Hvar instead of Split, your only option will of course be to take a ferry from Hvar to Dubrovnik . This ride takes 3.25 hours. As always in Croatia, be sure to check the ferry schedule online before booking your trip.

Things to Do in Dubrovnik (One and a Half Days)

• Stradun Street : This is the main pedestrian street of the town. It starts at the main gate, Pile Gate.
• Square of the Loggia : This is a plaza in the heart of the old town.
• Dubrovnik Cathedral : Beautiful Baroque building located in the square above.
• Rector’s Palace : This is now the Cultural Historical Museum, but it used to be a palace. It’s located on the same square above and has beautiful columns.
• Sponza Palace : A very pretty building near the above three sites.
• Fort Lovrijenac : This is the fort across from the main walled town. Climb here to get that cliche view over Dubrovnik. Fun fact: the little bay between this fort and the main walled town appears many times in Game of Thrones .
• City walls walk : The entrance for this is to the left of Pile Gate as you approach it from inside the walls and will put you back €26 ($31). The walk takes about 2 hours to complete and afford the best views of the water and the city. I highly recommend timing this during sunset if you can!
• Cliff jumping : Did you really go to Croatia if you didn’t cliff jump? You can join a kayak tour around the city walls and to Lokrum that ends at a beach with cliff jumping spots. The young guys outside Pile Gate sell this tour. You can also DIY cliff jump near famous Cafe Buza. Just follow signs saying “cold drinks, beautiful view.” You’ll see this place on your city walls walk.
• Cable car ride : The cable car goes from behind Dubvonik Old Town up to the mountain looming above. This will set you back around €23 ($25) round trip.
• Beach day : Try Banje Beach, Sv Jakov Beach, or Uvala Lapad Beach (take bus 6 for this one).
• Lokrum Island : You can rent a jet ski and go yourself, or take a 15 minute taxi boat ride for €5 ($5). This place is known for tons of peacocks, great views of Dubrovnik in the distance, and the French Port Royal Castle.
• Elafiti Islands : You can take a pre-booked boat tour to these three islands near Dubrovnik. Tours allow ample time to explore each island, and lunch is included. This costs around €31 ($35).
• Sit on the Iron Throne : Stop by Dubrovnik City Shop – IRON THRONE for a photo op on a plastic iron throne.

How to Get Out of Dubrovnik

And before you know it, your one week Croatia itinerary must come to an end. You will need to make your way out of Dubrovnik city center. Dubrovnik’s international airport is called Dubrovnik Airport (DVB) . But you will need to transfer at another, larger airport if you are traveling to North America.

• Option 1: Take a bus . From the Dubrovnik Main Bus Station in Gruž Port , take the bus to the Dubrovnik Airport. The ride takes around 90 minutes, and tickets for this official shuttle bus are purchased on the bus for €7 ($8).
• Option 2: Take a taxi . A taxi ride between Dubrovnik Old Town and the airport will cost €32 – €39 ($39 – $47). The drive takes 30 min to 1 hour in summer months.

Adjustments to this Croatia Itinerary

The above is how I would spend seven days in Croatia. After having spent over a month in the country across two different visits, I think this one week route is the absolutely perfect first visit to Croatia . But maybe your interests differ slightly! Below are some easy adjustments you can make to this one week Croatia itinerary.

• Arrive in Zadar instead of Zagreb : If you are not arriving to Croatia from outside Europe, you might not have to fly into Zagreb. You might then want to switch out day one in Zagreb for a day in Zadar, by flying into Zadar instead of Zagreb. You can then day trip to Plitvice from Zadar round trip for day two. This avoids keeping your bags in luggage hold during your time in the park. Then, you would continue onto Split from Zadar on the morning of day three.
• Reverse the order of this itinerary : The order of this itinerary can definitely be reversed. If you are coming from outside Europe, you will simply have to transfer to Dubrovnik via a domestic flight after arriving in Zagreb Airport.
• Day trip to Korčula : Another beautiful and popular island is Korcula. It has the absolute clearest waters I have ever seen – even better than the waters in Hvar! If you are not interested in the island hopping boat tour or it is out of your budget, you might consider a DIY day trip to Korcula from Hvar on that day instead. Korčula is the name of the island and the town I’m recommending, so be sure your ferries go to Korčula the town and not Vela Luka, on the other side of the island. If you’re traveling light and don’t mind changing accommodation once more, you could even overnight in Korcula, because it’s a stop on the route between Hvar and Dubrovnik.
• Day trip into another country : Two popular day trips from Dubrovnik are to Kotor in neighboring Montenegro and to Mostar in neighboring Bosnia and Herzegovina. That would of course require a full day, so you will have to substitute out the island hopping day. Keep in mind that border crossings can take over an hour each way for these options!

What Do You Think?

What do you think of my one week Croatia itinerary for first timers? Have you been to Croatia? Was it for more or less than one week? Let me know if you need any Croatia itinerary help below. I love playing travel agent for people!

And in Case You Need One Last Summary

Croatia One Week (7 Day) Itinerary:

• Day 1: Zagreb
• Day 2: Plitvice Lakes
• Day 3: Split
• Day 4: Hvar
• Day 5: Island Hopping
• Day 6: Dubrovnik
• Day 7: Dubrovnik

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Veronika Konečná

Hi That. Loved your blog. This seems to be the perfect itinerary for the first timers . Thank you so much for sharing this with the world. Hopefully I am gonna experience this beautiful country on a yacht with https://yachting.com/en-gb/croatia-yacht-charter .

The Solivagant Soul

I did a similar tour although in my case it was in the opposite direction. Also, I spent 3 days in Hvar and loved each one of them! The town may be visited in 1.5h but the island alone deserves far more time! Loved your pictures and experiences! Thanks for sharing =)

That Travelista

Totally agree! I was already planning my return trip while on this short trip, and it definitely involves more island time!!

Margarida Vasconcelos

Beautiful pictures

Thanks so much!

Nathalie Bolet

Very well detailed! Loved all of the pics! Definitely will need to go back to Croatia and visit these places.

Thanks! And yes, Croatia is definitely a repeat-trip type of destination!

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The Balkan Extended tour truly showcases the finest of Balkan’s heritage and natural beauty as you make your way through the 5 countries. Learn about the Serbian Athens, climb the splendid Old Bridge in Mostar, observe Slovenia's water castle and dive into the pearl of Croatia's beauty in Istria.

11 days  / from 2678 USD

Love Thy Neighbor - Croatia and Slovenia

Slovenia and Croatia are neighboring countries, and the close proximity of Slovenian and Croatian Istria make them a perfect destination for a single trip. The area has numerous stories waiting to be discovered, from magical alpine landscapes of Slovenia to charming historical towns inland.

8 days  / from 3499 USD

Croatia's Best Kept Secret - Vis Island

Surrounded by an archipelago of other islands and islets, the island of Vis is simple, sleepy and authentic. As a military base, the island was closed until 1991 and has remained its original charm. Come for the unique experience, stay for the hospitality and friendliness of the locals.

9 days  / from 2111 USD

The Ultimate Croatian Adventure

This trip is designed for people searching for an exciting lifestyle and never-ending adventure. With so many different landscapes, beautiful nature, stunning mountains, and picturesque Adriatic coast, Croatia is a place that can offer a truly incredible and adventurous experience.

9 days  / from 2527 USD

Dalmatian Honeymoon

This honeymoon trip was inspired by love towards our home that Dalmatia is. The tour is planned out to the last possible detail, but still respecting the time you wish to spend at your own pace in privacy. It will take you around the most romantic islands of Korcula and Hvar.

10 days  / from 2569 USD

Balkan & Adriatic

The most relaxing Balkan & Adriatic tour! This trip is for travellers who are interested in visiting different locations in the Balkans but prefer a comfortable way of travelling. Get to know parts of Serbia, Montenegro and the beautiful towns of Croatia, all while travelling at a slow pace.

12 days  / from 4535 USD

Croatia and Slovenia: An Adriatic Adventure

This expansive trip celebrates the splendour of Croatia and Slovenia, with their wondrous hilltop towns and stunning cities, such as Dubrovnik, Ljubljana and Split. Experience the wine and olive oil-making traditions of these two countries, and go truffle hunting on the Istrian Peninsula.

8 days  / from 2419 USD

The Best of Croatia and Slovenia

Combine the highlights of neighboring countries Croatia and Slovenia on this self drive trip. Explore Dubrovnik, Plitivce Lakes, Zadar and Zagreb in Croatia before heading out to see Lake Bled and Slovenia's capital Ljubljana. Make stops along the way and soak in the culture, food and history.

9 days  / from 2354 USD

Adriatic Roadtrip from Istria to Dalmatia

Croatia from North to South - start your trip in Rovinj, a town close to the Italian border with a lovely medieval port. Pick up your rental car and make your way through Croatia's inland with Plitvice Lakes and further down to Zadar, Split and Dubrovnik. Nature, culture and adventure await!

7 days  / from 1026 USD

An active trip to authentic Hvar

Meet an entirely different Hvar, discover its hidden corners, learn about the local food and wine production and day-to-day life of a typical island family. Easy hikes will allow you to experience the island with a local, through many vineyards, olive groves and dense pine forests.

6 days  / from 1507 USD

Wine & Adventure in Croatia

Land in Dubrovnik and explore the city on a guided tour before basing yourself in Split for the remainder of your trip. Explore the surroundings in your rental car, including Krka National Park, rafting on the Cetina river, Zadar, a special wine tasting, kayaking and more.

10 days  / from 3661 USD

Highlights of Croatia Trip: Zagreb, Split, Hvar and Dubrovnik

Discover Croatia, with its fascinating history and glistening Adriatic coast. Your adventure begins in the capital, Zagreb, before moving on to Split, via the stunning Plitvice Lakes. Continue to the beautiful Hvar Island, before ending your trip in dazzling Dubrovnik, 'the Pearl of the Adriatic'.

12 days  / from 2959 USD

Nature & Culture

Inspired by timeless natural and cultural landmarks of the area, this trip is taking you through the highlights of Croatia, Southern part of Bosnia & Herzegovina and coastal Montenegro.

8 days  / from 2699 USD

The Pearl of the Adriatic - Dubrovnik

Stay in a beautiful hotel in Dubrovnik and take day tours, either in small groups or privately guided, all throughout Dalmatia. Visit vineyards, hidden bays, islands, a stint to neighboring Montenegro and more. Ideal for those hating to unpack and pack again, discover on day tours.

8 days  / from 1458 USD

Croatia Game of Thrones and Highlights

Discover the lakes and waterfalls of forested parks that are Croatia Game of Thrones locations, before exploring medieval walled Trogir and the Diocletian’s Palace in Split. Ancient fortresses on the stunning Makarska coastline await en route to dramatic Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island monastery ruins.

11 days  / from 2549 USD

Feel & Taste Dalmatia

This trip is inspired by the traditional Dalmatian lifestyle, including some of the most amazing and dream-like Croatian islands. It is tailored for people who wish to take a break from everyday life, get a genuine insight into the local culture and taste local products.

10 days  / from 2191 USD

Balkan Essentials

The Balkans are stunning and you will have a chance to experience their beauty during this 10 day-multiple country trip. Feel the welcoming vibe of Belgrade, visit Kotor, Europe's unmissable town, walk down the famous Bridge on Drina and observe stunning Plitvice Lakes.

10 days  / from 1970 USD

Explore the Balkans

Enjoy the sights of Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro and Croatia in one trip - the best of the Balkans! Stroll through the old towns, marvel at the historic buildings and stunning natural landscapes as you make your way through these four interesting countries.

7 days  / from 1814 USD

Treasures of Slovenia

This trip will take you around a rather small country that is Slovenia, yet a place full of natural wonders, cultural landmarks and delicious foods. In 7 days, you will go from Europe-worthy capital of Ljubljana, along a charming part of the Slovenian Adriatic coast all the way across the Alps.

11 days  / from 3186 USD

Sailing across Dalmatia

With some of the most exciting islands, pristine Adriatic sea waters, intoxicating lagoons, bays and inlets, charming and historical coastal towns, rich culture, delicious food, and easy-going locals, Dalmatia is easily one of the most valuable and desirable regions of Croatia.

Airfares always depend on the season . Peak times for flights to Croatia are between May and September, and around the Easter and Christmas holidays; at these times be prepared to book well in advance. Fares drop during the “shoulder” seasons (April and October), and you’ll usually get the best prices during the low season (Nov–March, excluding Easter and Christmas). Many of Croatia’s cities are served by budget airlines , although flights may be limited to the summer tourist season (May–Sept). The best deals are usually to be found by booking through discount travel websites or the websites of the airlines themselves.

You may sometimes find it cheaper to pick up a bargain package deal from a tour operator. The main advantage of package holidays is that hotel accommodation is much cheaper than if you arrange things independently, bringing mid-range hotels well within reach and making stays in even quite snazzy establishments a fraction of the price paid by walk-in guests. The season for Adriatic packages runs from April to October; city breaks in Zagreb and Dubrovnik are available all the year round. Croatia is also the venue for an increasing number of maritime packages – ranging from sailing courses for beginners to boat charter for the experienced (see Travel agents and tour operators).

Flying from the UK to Croatia takes between two hours fifteen minutes and two hours 45 minutes. Direct scheduled flights are operated by Croatia Airlines, which flies from London Heathrow to Zagreb, and British Airways, who run year-round direct flights from London Gatwick to Dubrovnik and London Heathrow to Zagreb, and twice-weekly seasonal flights from London Heathrow to Split. EasyJet, Wizzair, Jet2 and Ryanair operate seasonal (usually May-Oct) services to Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, Rijeka, Pula and Osijek from a wide range of UK airports. Travelling from Ireland , Aer Lingus fly from Dublin to Pula and Dubrovnik, while Jet2 and easyJet fly to Dubrovnik and Split respectively from Belfast.

Expect to pay around £170 return low season, £250–300 return high season if travelling with Croatia Airlines or British Airways, although bear in mind that prices rise drastically if you don’t book well in advance. Tickets with budget carriers can be significantly cheaper – again, you have to book well in advance to take advantage of the lowest fares.

Package deals

The widest range of package deals is offered by Croatia specialists, who can put together customized flight-plus-accommodation deals; in high season (June–Sept) expect to pay from around £670 for a week, and from £850 for two weeks. As for city breaks , a three-day stay in Zagreb or Dubrovnik will cost £450–550 per person depending on which grade of hotel you choose. A few specialist operators offer naturist holidays in the self-contained mega-resorts of Istria.

Motorsailer cruises in Dalmatia start at around £650 for seven days. To learn the rudiments of sailing , you can arrange a one-week beginner’s course – prices start at about £680 per person. The cheapest seven-day holiday in an eight-berth yacht is typically around £600–700 per person (rising to £800–900 in a two-berth yacht), depending on the season. Prices rise steeply for fancier yachts. You won’t be able to charter a smallish three- to four-berth bareboat yacht for much under £750 per week, while prices for larger craft can run into thousands; a skipper will cost upwards of £120 a day extra.

There are currently no direct flights from North America to Croatia, though most major airlines offer one- or two-stop flights via the bigger European cities, often in conjunction with Croatia Airlines, the national carrier. From the US , a midweek round-trip fare to Zagreb in low season starts at US$750 from New York (US$1200 from US West Coast cities), rising to US$1300 (US$1800 from the West Coast) during high season. From Canada , round-trip fares start at Can$1250 from Toronto and Can$1800 from Vancouver during the low season, rising to Can$1800 and Can$2300 respectively during high season. Note that the above prices are for tickets bought from airlines directly, and the pricing varies hugely depending on the route and the carrier combination; discount agencies usually have lower fares.

Specialist travel agents such as TravelTime offer air-inclusive independent packages . Expect to pay about US$1100 for eight days in Dubrovnik or Dalmatia in low season, $1650 in high season. There are also several North American tour operators offering escorted and independent tours and activity holidays to Croatia – a number of which also include Slovenia in their itinerary.

If you’re planning to visit Croatia as part of a wider trip across Europe, you may want to get the cheapest transatlantic flight you can find, and continue your journey overland – in which case it’s worth considering a Eurail pass for train travel.

Flying to Croatia from Australia and New Zealand with major airlines often involves two stops en route and can work out quite expensive – fares hover around the Aus$2750 mark from Australia, NZ$3450 from New Zealand. It probably makes far more sense to aim for a big European city such as London or Frankurt and then travel on to Croatia on a local budget airline. This can work out quite cheaply if booked well in advance. Another option is to fly to Doha or Dubai and pick up one of the regular flights to Zagreb operated by Qatar Airways and flydubai.

A small number of package-tour operators offer holidays in Croatia from Australia and New Zealand, including accommodation, cruises along the Dalmatian coast, sightseeing packages and rail passes.

There are no direct flights to Croatia from South Africa , but plenty of airlines offer one-stop flights via European hubs such as London, Frankfurt or Paris. Flying with an airline such as Lufthansa from Johannesburg to Zagreb via Frankfurt costs around ZAR9200 in low season, ZAR10,700 in high season, and takes around eighteen hours. Flying to Split or Dubrovnik usually involves one more stop and costs ZAR1500–2500 extra.

Adriatic Travel US t 1 310 548 1446. Croatian travel specialists offering escorted tours, pilgrimages and activity holidays.

Adventure World Australia t 1300 295 049. Accommodation, sailing, hiking tours and more.

Completely Croatia t 01323 832 538. Upmarket tour company specializing in charming villas and hotels in the less touristy parts of Croatia.

Concorde Ireland t 01 775 9300. Holidays in Dalmatia and charter flights from Dublin and Cork from an operator with long-time Croatian experience. They also deal with accommodation, flights and car rental.

Croatia for Travellers UK t 01825 766 896 20 7226 4460. Tailor-made packages and activity holidays using a wide range of hotel and apartment accommodation along the Adriatic coast and in Zagreb and the Plitvice Lakes.

Croatia Tours Ireland t 01 878 0800. Destinations in Istria, Dalmatia and the Dubrovnik region, plus tailor-made itineraries, from a specialist operator.

Croatia Travel Agency US t 1 800 662 7628. New York-based agency specializing in all things Croatian, including packages, airfare, cruises and car rental.

Croatian Villas UK t 020 8888 6655. Tasteful apartments and holiday houses throughout Dalmatia and the Kvarner region, with a particularly good choice of properties in Lovran and on the island of Veli Brijun.

Discover Croatia Holidays Australia t 1300 660 189. Dedicated specialists offering packages and tailor-made arrangements to pretty much everywhere in the country.

Eastern Eurotours Australia t 1800 242 353. Holidays in Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb, plus multi-centre Adriatic tours and sea cruises.

Exodus UK t 0845 863 9600. Guided cultural tours, walking trips, mountain biking and cycling expeditions along the Croatian Adriatic.

Explore Worldwide UK t 01252 888 554, US t 1 800 715 1746, Canada t 1 888 216 3401. Cultural tours, cycling, hiking and Adriatic cruises.

Headwater Holidays UK t 01606 828 110. Light walking tours taking in nature and culture in Dalmatia.

Kompas US t 1 954 771 9200. Various packages including city breaks in Dubrovnik, Split and Zagreb, yachting trips and customized tours.

Ramblers Holidays UK t 01707 331133. Cultural tours with a bit of easy walking, centring on Split and Dubrovnik.

Road Scholar US t 1 800 454 5768. Specialists in educational and activity programmes, cruises and homestays for senior travellers, including Croatia, Hungary and Slovenia combo packages.

Skedaddle UK t 0191 265 1110. Biking tours in Istria, staying in rural accommodation.

TravelTime US t 1 800 354 8728. The main Croatian specialist operator in the US, with a wide range of packages including guided tours, city breaks, kayaking, wine-tasting and culinary tours, plus programmes for senior citizens.

Vintage Travel UK t 01954 261431. Apartment holidays with small-town Istria a speciality.

Travelling to Croatia by train from the UK is unlikely to save money compared with flying, but can be a leisurely way of getting to the country if you plan to stop off in other parts of Europe on the way. It’s certainly simpler and more cost-effective to buy a rail pass, invest in an international rail timetable and plan your own itinerary than to try and purchase a rail return ticket to Croatia: most ticket agents deal exclusively with premier express services, and fares often work out more expensive than flying – a London–Zagreb return will set you back something in the region of £210–300. The high cost is at least partly explained by the fact that almost all through-tickets from London to European destinations now use Eurostar trains, rather than the (traditionally cheaper) ferries. It’s still possible to travel by rail from London to the continent via ferry, but (unless you have a rail pass) you’ll probably have to buy individual tickets for each stage of the journey.

There are two main London–Zagreb rail itineraries : the first is via Paris, Lausanne, Milan, Venice and Ljubljana; the second via Brussels, Cologne, Salzburg and Ljubljana. The total journey time on either route is around thirty hours, depending on connections – considerably longer if you cross the Channel by ferry rather than taking the Eurostar. If you’re making a beeline for Dalmatia, consider heading for Ancona in Italy (16hr from Paris), the departure point for ferries to Zadar, Split and Stari Grad.

Rail passes

If you’re planning to visit Croatia as part of a more extensive trip around Europe, it may be worth buying a rail pass . Croatia is covered in the Inter-Rail pass scheme, which is available to European residents.

Inter-Rail passes can be bought through Rail Europe in the UK and come in over-26 and (cheaper) under-26 versions. They cover most European countries, including Croatia and all the countries you need to travel through in order to get there. A pass for five days’ travel in a ten-day period (£205 for adults, £149 for those under 26) will just about suffice to get you to Croatia and back; although a more leisurely approach would require a pass for ten days’ travel within a 22-day period (£291 and £219 respectively) or a pass for one month’s continuous travel (£488 and £359). Inter-Rail passes do not include travel between Britain and the continent, although pass-holders are eligible for discounts on rail travel in the UK and on cross-Channel ferries.

Non-European residents qualify for the Eurail Global pass , which must be purchased before arrival in Europe from selected agents in North America, Australia and New Zealand or from Rail Europe in London. The pass allows unlimited train travel in twenty European countries, including Belgium and Germany. Passes for those aged 26 and over are for first-class travel only. Passes for the under 26s come with a second-class option. There's an extensive choice of time periods: for example a pass for five days' travel in a ten-day period costs $522 for those over 26 (first class), $341 for those under 26 (second class); ten days' travel within a two-mont period costs $784 and $512 respectively; a pass for one month's continuos travel costs $1054 and $687. Further details of these passes can be found on w raileurope.com.

Driving to Croatia is straightforward. The most direct route from the UK is to follow motorways from the Belgian coast via Brussels, Cologne, Frankfurt, Stuttgart, Munich, Salzburg and Villach as far as the Slovene capital, Ljubljana, from where you can continue by ordinary road south to Rijeka on the Adriatic coast or southeast to Zagreb. An alternative approach is through France, Switzerland and Italy as far as Ancona on Italy’s Adriatic coast, from where there are ferries to various points on the Dalmatian coast. Farther down towards the heel of Italy there are ferries from Bari to Dubrovnik.

Note that if you’re driving on Austrian motorways you’ll have to buy a vignette (a windscreen sticker available at border crossings and petrol stations; €8 for ten days, €25.30 for two months). In Slovenia you’ll need to buy a vignette to drive on all but minor country roads (€15 for one week, €30 for one month).

The bus journey from London to Zagreb (changing in Frankfurt) takes 34–38 hours and is slightly cheaper than the train, with a return costing £200. Contact Eurolines (UK T 08717 818 187, Ireland T 01 836 6111).

Seasonal ferry services (usually spring to late autumn) run from Ancona to Split, Stari Grad and Zadar; and from Bari to Dubrovnik. Passengers can usually buy tickets on arrival at the relevant ferry port, but if you’re travelling with a vehicle it’s wise to book in advance, especially in July and August. Services to Split and Dubrovnik usually take eight to twelve hours; services to Zadar slightly less.

From northern Italy, passenger-only catamarans operated by Venezia Lines serve Poreč, Pula and Rovinj from Venice.

Simple deck passage from Ancona or Bari to Croatian ports costs about €65–70 in peak season, although booking early online can uncover some cheaper deals. Most crossings are overnight, so consider investing an additional €30 for a bed in a basic cabin. Pushbikes are free, motorcycles cost about €45, cars €85. Return tickets are usually twenty percent cheaper than two singles.

Croatia’s island-scattered littoral is the perfect place for sailing and yachting, the season usually lasting from early May to early October. The most basic form of sailing holiday, for which you need no nautical experience, is a cruise in a motorsailer – basically a large, engine-powered yacht with simple bunk accommodation and a crew to do the work. If you already know the ropes you might consider flotilla sailing, in which a group of yachts with an expertly crewed lead boat embarks on a set seven- or fourteen-day itinerary. Flotilla yachts usually range from two-berth to eight-berth, so per-person prices decrease according to the size of your group. At least one of your party will have to have sailing experience – exactly how much differs from one travel company to the next.

Sailing holidays and yacht charter contacts

Yacht charter can either be “bareboat” (meaning you have to sail it yourself) or “skippered” (which means you pay for the services of a local captain). Prices are subject to many variables, the most important being the model of yacht and the number of berths. For bareboat charter, at least one member of the party has to have about two years’ sailing experience – again, precise requirements differ from company to company. To find out more, you can contact a specialist agency in your home country.

Activity Yachting UK t 01243 641304. Learn-to-sail packages, flotilla sailing and bareboat charter out of Murter in central Dalmatia.

Cosmos Yachting UK t 0800 376 9070. Individual yacht charter or skippered charter out of Zadar, Pula, Split, Dubrovnik and other ports.

Interpac Yachts US t 1 619 222 0327. Yacht-charter specialists offering customized Adriatic cruises.

Nautilus Yachting UK t 01732 867445. Learn-to-sail packages based in Murter, plus bareboat yacht and motor-yacht charter from various Dalmatian ports.

Sail Croatia Croatia t 00 385 21 494 888. Skippered and bareboat charter from a wide range of Dalmatian island bases.

Sail Croatia Adventures UK t 0845 257 8289. Motorcruiser tours of Dalmatia, sailing-plus-cycling combinations.

Seafarer UK t 020 8324 3117. Bareboat charters and flotilla sailing based in Dalmatia.

Setsail Holidays UK t 01787 310445. Bareboat charter, and two-week flotilla sailing in Dalmatia.

The Rough Guides to Croatia and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Croatia

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Croatia

• Eating and drinking in Croatia
• Getting around Croatia: Transportation Tips
• National Parks in Croatia
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Croatia
• Travel Tips Croatia for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit Croatia

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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The Best Ways to Fly to Croatia With Points and Miles

Michael McHugh

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Best Programs to Fly to Croatia

Best programs to connect to croatia, final thoughts.

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With a sprawling coastline along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is a country located in eastern Europe. Bordered by Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, Croatia has a mix of influences that can be seen through its medieval cities, food, and beaches .

There is 1 major and 2 large regional airports in Croatia. Zagreb (ZAG) offers the most options for those flying in from the U.S., however, you’ll also want to look into seasonal flights that fly into Split (SPU) and Dubrovnik (DBV).

Best Programs to Use to Book Flights

There are currently no nonstop flights offered from the U.S. to Croatia , so you’ll likely want to connect in Europe. This actually isn’t that bad as the Oneworld , SkyTeam , and Star Alliance partner airlines offer a number of flight options between the U.S. and Croatia.

As we work our way through this list, it’s important to note that the award prices shown are for round-trip flights. Outside of ANA partner airline flights and American Airlines flights using Iberia Avios (miles), you can book one-way flights to Croatia for half of the miles shown in the respective award charts. With that behind us, let’s dive into how to book your next flight to Croatia!

Air Canada Aeroplan

Aeroplan offers solid redemption pricing on both Economy and Business class flights to Europe. Better yet, you can add stopovers in other European cities for no extra mileage cost.

• Newark (EWR) – Warsaw (WAW) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 140,000 Aeroplan points in LOT Polish business class
• Washington (IAD) – Copenhagen (CPH) – Split (SPU) for 140,000 Aeroplan points in SAS business class

The steps below will help you during your booking process with Aeroplan:

• Search for flights on United.
• Confirm the same availability on Aeroplan.
• Book the flight online.
• Pay the taxes and fees.

Earning Aeroplan Points

It’s easy to earn Aeroplan points because the program is an American Express transfer partner , Chase transfer partner , Capital One transfer partner , and Marriott Bonvoy transfer partner . In addition, Aeroplan has a co-branded credit card that earns Aeroplan points directly with your spend.

You’ll want to keep the transfer ratios and transfer times in mind before transferring any points. American Express, Capital One, and Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott point transfers take 5 days at a 3:1 ratio. With that said, here are the American Express cards we recommend:

Recommended American Express Cards (Personal)

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com
• Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment ( airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit )
• TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
• Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts
• Access to Amex International Airline Program
• No foreign transaction fees ( rates and fees )
• $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card ® , Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card ® . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
• $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
• $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.
• Terms Apply.

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This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card  is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
• Up to $120 annual dining credit: up to $10 monthly statement credit when you pay with the Amex Gold card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com , Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations
• Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash : get $10 monthly in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account
• No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees )
• Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
• Access to American Express transfer partners
• $250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
• No lounge access
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.
• Find the Amex Gold 75k or 90k Welcome Bonus Offer
• Benefits of the Amex Gold
• Upgrade Amex Gold to Amex Platinum
• Amex Gold Benefits for Military
• Amex Gold vs Blue Cash Preferred
• Amex Platinum vs Amex Gold
• Amex Gold vs Delta Gold

Business owner? See our list of the best Amex business credit cards .

You can also opt to acquire the co-branded Chase Aeroplan ® Credit Card, which earns 3x points per dollar spent on dining, groceries, and Air Canada, as well as 1x point per $1 spent everywhere else.

Bottom Line: Aeroplan is one of the easiest and best Star Alliance programs to use to book business class flights to Europe. 

ANA Mileage Club

The second Star Alliance program to make the list is ANA Mileage Club . ANA is primarily known for its hard product (the actual seat you fly in) and its competitive award chart when flying on its own and partner award flights.

One of the main downsides when using ANA miles is that you must book round-trip partner airline flights. Programs like Aeroplan give you more flexibility by allowing you to book one-way partner airline flights — not the case with ANA. Unless you’re flying on an ANA award flight, you must book a round-trip flight.

Hot Tip:  Business class award flights are where ANA really shines —  88,000 miles is one of the lowest award prices in this list for flights from the U.S. to Croatia. 

Here are a couple of example flights to Croatia that you can book when you have enough ANA miles in your account:

• Chicago (ORD) – Amsterdam (AMS) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 88,000 ANA miles in United and Croatia Airlines business class
• Houston (IAH) – London (LHR) – Split (SPU) for 55,000 ANA miles in United and Croatia Airlines economy

When booking flights to Croatia using ANA miles, the steps below will be helpful in the booking process:

• Confirm the same availability on ANA.

Earning ANA Mileage Club Miles

It’s easy to earn ANA Mileage Club miles because ANA has partnerships with American Express and Marriott Bonvoy. The points that you earn in this program can be transferred directly to ANA. There is an ANA co-branded card, however, it’s not available for the U.S. market. With that said, point transfers from American Express and Marriott will be the main way to earn ANA miles.

If you have American Express points, you’ll want to transfer those points to ANA first because point transfers take 2-3 days at a 1:1 ratio. Those of you with Marriott points will need to wait 7 days for the transfer at a 3:1 ratio.

Bottom Line: If you do not need flexibility, booking round-trip business class partner airlines to Croatia using ANA miles is a great deal. 

Asiana Airlines Asiana Club

For flights to Croatia, it’s hard to beat the award pricing offered by Star Alliance partner Asiana Airlines Asiana Club. This program is primarily known for its extremely competitive partner award chart.

One of the reasons you likely don’t hear much about Asiana Airlines is because its partner award flight booking process is cumbersome. You have to call Asiana Airlines to book partner flights as they cannot be booked online.

Hot Tip:  Asiana Airlines has the lowest first class award pricing to Europe. However, you won’t be able to fly first class all the way from the U.S. to Croatia. If you’re eyeing first class, flying Lufthansa to Frankfurt or Munich will be your bet, although fuel surcharges will be high. 

The Star Alliance has a ton of its members based in Europe, so you’ll have a number of award flights options from the U.S. including:

• San Francisco (SFO) – Istanbul (IST) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 80,000 Asiana miles in Turkish Airlines business class
• Denver (DEN) – London (LHR) – Split (SPU) for 50,000 Asiana miles in United and Croatia Airlines economy

Booking Star Alliance award flights to Croatia using Asiana Airlines miles requires a few additional steps in the process as follows:

• Search for Star Alliance partner flights on United.
• Call Asiana Airlines at 800-227-4262 between 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. PST on Monday-Friday.
• Book the flight over the phone.

Earning Asiana Airlines Miles

You’ll likely have a tough time earning Asiana Airlines miles because they only partner with Marriott Bonvoy . However, Asiana Airlines offers co-branded credit cards that earn miles directly with your spend. The best strategy is to put your spend on a combination of Asiana Airlines and Marriott credit cards.

For those of you already with Marriott points, the point transfer to Asiana Airlines takes 4 days at a 3:1 ratio. Separately, with every 60,000 Marriott points that you transfer you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus.

Bottom Line:  Asiana Airlines is a great option if you’re looking to fly in a premium cabin and are able to earn Asiana Airlines miles. 

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Another Oneworld alliance program to consider using to fly to Croatia is Cathay Pacific. One of the best ways to use Cathay Pacific Asia Miles is to book British Airways award flights due to the taxes and fees. When you book British Airways flights with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, you’ll pay ~$600 roundtrip instead of $1,000 round-trip for flights to Europe.

The primary downside when using Asia Miles to book partner award flights is that the pricing isn’t that competitive. As you’ll see in this list, there are cheaper ways to use points and miles to fly transatlantic in economy, business, and first class.

Hot Tip:  Reference the Asia Miles Standard Award if you’re flying 1 Oneworld airline partner. From there, add 5,000 miles to the cost of the award flight that’s based on the distance of your itinerary. 

Examples of award flights that you can book with Cathay Pacific Asia Miles include:

• Boston (MIA) – Madrid (MAD) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 100,000 Cathay Pacific miles in Iberia business class
• New York (JFK) – London (LHR) for 150,000 Cathay Pacific miles in British Airways first class

The process to book award flights using Asia Miles is dependent on the airline. For flights to Croatia, you can book Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Finnair, and Iberia online. All other airline partners that fly between the U.S. and Croatia (i.e. American Airlines) require a phone call to book the flight:

• Search for partner airline flights on asiamiles.com.
• Or call Cathay Pacific at 866-892-2598 to confirm award availability.
• Book the flight online or over the phone.

Earning Cathay Pacific Asia Miles

Cathay Pacific has partnerships with American Express, Capital One, Citi, and Marriott Bonvoy — in other words, it’s easy to earn Cathay Pacific Asia Miles . Separately, Cathay Pacific offers a co-branded credit card for the U.S. market, meaning that the spend you put on this card earns Cathay Pacific Asia miles.

If you have a stash of American Express , Capital One , Citi , and/or Marriott points , you’ll want to keep tabs on the transfer ratios and transfer times. American Express points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, Capital One Miles transfers take up to 3 days at a 1:1 ratio, Citi point transfers take 24 hours at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott point transfers take 5 days at a 3:1 ratio.

Bottom Line: The way to receive the most value with this Cathay Pacific redemption is to fly British Airways. The fuel surcharges will still be there, however, they will be much lower than what you’d otherwise pay. 

Japan Airlines Mileage Bank

The last program to make our list is Japan Airlines Mileage Bank . Japan Airlines routinely offers some of the lowest award rates on its own and partner airline flights. For award flights to Croatia, Japan Airlines has one of the lowest economy, business, and first class prices to Croatia.

Japan Airlines is a program you should use, but miles are hard to earn in the Mileage Bank program. If you can generate Japan Airlines miles, you’ll open yourself up to a number of high-value award flight options.

Hot Tip:  Japan Airlines has a partnership with SkyTeam member Air France. This means that you can use Japan Airlines miles to book an Air France award flight. 

The Mileage Bank program offers a number of interesting options to book flights between the U.S. and Croatia including:

• New York (JFK) – Madrid (MAD) – Split (SPU) for 50,000 Japan Airlines miles in Iberia economy
• Washington (IAD) – Paris (CDG) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 110,000 Japan Airlines miles in Air France business class

Booking Japan Airlines partner award flights is easy. Just follow these steps:

• Search for Oneworld flights on British Airways.
• Search for saver level Air France flights on Delta.
• Confirm the same availability on Japan Airlines.

Earning Japan Airlines Miles

There are not a ton of ways to earn Japan Airlines Mileage Bank miles because the airline only partners with Marriott. Japan Airlines has a co-branded credit card, however, the card has a low welcome offer and earn rates.

For those of you already holding Marriott points, the point transfers to Japan Airlines take 2 days at a 3:1 ratio. You’ll also receive a 5,000-mile bonus with every 60,000 Marriott points that you transfer.

Bottom Line: Japan Airlines offers one of the cheapest ways to fly transatlantic first class. Air France first class can’t be booked with Japan Airlines miles, but you can book American Airlines and British Airways first class. 

Iberia Avios

Yet another Oneworld airline partner to check out is Iberia. The Iberia Avios (miles) program is likely familiar to some U.S. travelers because you can cheaply book domestic American Airlines flights using Avios.

What many people are not fans of with Iberia is that American Airlines flights must be booked round-trip. If your goal is flexibility and you want to fly American Airlines, other Oneworld programs offer greater flexibility.

Hot Tip:  The longer the distance of your flight, the more miles you’ll need. Both Iberia’s own and partner airline flights are distance-based. 

Examples of flights to Croatia that you can book with Iberia Avios include:

• Boston (BOS) – Madrid (MAD) – Zagreb (ZAG) for 88,000 Iberia Avios Iberia business class off-peak
• New York (JFK) – Milan (MXP) for 100,000 Iberia Avios in American Airlines business class

The Iberia award flight booking process will be different depending on which airline you fly:

• Search for American Airlines and Iberia flights on British Airways.
• Confirm the same availability on Iberia.
• Search for Royal Air Maroc flights on Royal Air Maroc.
• Call Iberia at 800-772-4642 to confirm award availability.
• Book American Airlines and Iberia flights online.
• Book Royal Air Maroc flights over the phone.

For the Milan flight, you’ll need to book a cheap points or cash flight to continue on to Croatia. Croatia Airlines operates the MXP-ZAG route seasonally for 12,500 Avianca LifeMiles in economy class. You can transfer points from Membership Rewards, Marriott Bonvoy, and ThankYou to LifeMiles.

Alternatively, easyJet operates the MXP-SPU route seasonally. This flight can be had for as little at $33 one-way, and you can use your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to cover the flight when booked through the Chase Travel Portal . If you don’t mind flying an ultra-low-cost carrier, this is likely your best bet.

Earning Iberia Avios

Earning Iberia Avios is extremely easy because Iberia has partnerships with American Express, Chase, and Marriott. In addition, Iberia has a co-branded credit card for the U.S. market. The spend that you put on this card earns Iberia Avios.

If you’re looking to earn American Express , Chase , and/or Marriott points , American Express and Chase points transfer to Iberia at a 1:1 ratio within 24 hours. Marriott transfers also happen within 24 hours, however, the ratio is 3:1. With Marriott, you’ll want to transfer 60,000 points at a time so you’ll receive the 5,000-mile bonus.

Bottom Line: The cheapest way to fly transatlantic business class in this list is with Iberia. During the off-peak season, you’ll only need 68,000 Iberia Avios for a round-trip flight. 

While not all programs book to a final destination of Croatia, there are still great options that you can get you to an airport within an easy connection to Croatia simply by purchasing an additional short flight. These flights may be great if you have miles or points to utilize with a specific program.

Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan

Our first U.S. airline program is Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan . Long-known for the ability to book a stopover on a one-way flight, another thing you may not have considered is using Alaska miles to fly American Airlines to Europe. Alaska Airlines has other airline partners, however, you’ll likely receive the most value booking American Airlines award flights.

Without a doubt, the primary drawback with Alaska Airlines is that it can be tough to earn Alaska Airlines miles. Another downside is the partner award booking fee, similar to Avianca, however, the cost is nominal.

Hot Tip:  American Airlines doesn’t fly all the way to Croatia. Instead, you’ll need to book an additional flight after landing at your European destination. 

For those of you with Alaska Airlines miles , check out the examples below for the types of flights that you can book:

• Charlotte (CLT) – Frankfurt (FRA) for 45,000 Alaska Airlines miles in American Airlines economy
• New York (JFK) – London (LHR) for 170,000 Alaska Airlines miles in American Airlines first class

To help you with your flight booking process, reference the steps below when using Alaska miles to book an award flight:

• Search for flights on Alaska Airlines.
• Pay the taxes and fees, including the $12.50 partner award flight booking fee.

Since American Airlines doesn’t fly all the way to Croatia, you’ll need to book an additional jumper flight from Frankfurt or London to Croatia. You can book LHR-ZAG for just 7,500 British Airways Avios in economy class — British Airways is an American Express transfer partner , Chase transfer partner , and a Marriott transfer partner . Alternatively, you can fly LHR-ZAG and LHR-SPU (seasonally) on Croatia Airlines for 12,500 Avianca LifeMiles.

Croatia runs year-round service between FRA and DBV, SPU, and ZAG airports. Further, Lufthansa flies year-round to ZAG and seasonally to SPU. Both of these airlines are in the Star Alliance, and the route can also be booked using LifeMiles as well. However, this route only costs 8,000 as it’s a shorter flight from FRA than LHR.

Earning Alaska Airlines Miles

Alaska Airlines miles can be challenging to earn as they only partner with Marriott Bonvoy. However, Alaska Airlines offers co-branded credit cards and the spend on these credit cards will directly earn Alaska Airlines miles.

For those of you with Marriott points, the transfer takes 2-4 days at a 3:1 ratio. If you’re looking for additional Alaska Airlines miles earned from Marriott transfers, here are the Marriott credit cards we like:

Recommended Marriott Cards 

There are a number of Marriott credit cards available which we cover in our in-depth guide.

Bottom Line: The best value for Alaska Airlines redemption is to book economy flights. Business class pricing is middle-of-the-road relative to the other options in this list. 

British Airways Executive Club

For U.S. travelers, Oneworld partner British Airways is known for the ability to book cheap, short-haul American Airlines flights within the U.S. British Airways uses a distance-based award chart, so the less distance that you fly, the fewer miles that you’ll need.

Although this doesn’t affect Aer Lingus flights, British Airways recently devalued its partner airline award flight chart. The number of miles required for award flights didn’t increase across the board, however, some airline routes require additional miles.

Hot Tip:  Flying Aer Lingus from Boston (BOS) – Dublin (DUB) during off-peak dates is the cheapest way to fly transatlantic. If you book this flight, you’ll only need 13,000 British Airways Avios (miles) each way. 

Examples of award flights that you can book with British Airways Avios include:

• Boston (BOS) – Dublin (DUB) f or 26,000 British Airways Avios in Aer Lingus economy
• Chicago (ORD) – Dublin (DUB) for 100,000 British Airways Avios in Aer Lingus business class

To book Aer Lingus flights using British Airways Avios, use these steps:

• Search for Aer Lingus flights on British Airways.

For these flights, you’ll need to purchase a separate, cheap flight from Dublin to Croatia. Aer Lingus flies nonstop from DUB to DBV and SPU seasonally, and you can use just 10,000 Aer Lingus Avios to fly one-way on-peak or 8,500 Avios off-peak. You can transfer to Aer Lingus from Membership Rewards, Ultimate Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy.

Earning British Airways Avios

You’ll have no issues earning British Airways Avios because the airline partners with American Express, Capital One, Chase, and Marriott Bonvoy. The points earned in these programs can be transferred directly to British Airways. In addition, British Airways has a co-branded credit card with a sizeable welcome offer available to the U.S. market.

Transfer ratios and transfer times differ across these programs. With that said, American Express, Capital One, and Chase points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio and Marriott point transfers take 24 hours at a 3:1 ratio. If you transfer 60,000 Marriott points, you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus. In short, these are the Chase cards that you should consider:

Recommended Chase Cards (Personal)

Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
• 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
• 2x points on all other travel worldwide
• $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Travel portal
• 6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
• Excellent travel and car rental insurance
• 10% annual bonus points
• No foreign transaction fees
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt
• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Chase Ultimate Rewards

• The Chase Sapphire Preferred 80k or 100k Bonus Offer
• Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Score Requirements
• Military Benefits of the Chase Sapphire Preferred
• Chase Freedom Unlimited vs Sapphire Preferred
• Chase Sapphire Preferred vs Reserve
• Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Preferred

Chase Sapphire Reserve ®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
• 5x points on airfare booked through Chase Travel SM
• 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
• $300 annual travel credit
• Priority Pass airport lounge access
• TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
• Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
• Rental car elite status with National and Avis
• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck ®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
• Chase Sapphire Reserve 100k Bonus Offer
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Airport Lounge Access
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Travel Insurance Benefits
• Chase Sapphire Reserve Military Benefits
• Amex Gold vs Chase Sapphire Reserve

Business owner? See our list of the best Chase business credit cards .

Bottom Line: If economy is your style, you can’t beat using less than 30,000 Avios to fly Aer Lingus economy across the Atlantic. 

Etihad Guest

The second airline not in a major airline alliance to make the list is Etihad. Its Etihad Guest loyalty program is fantastic, especially for those looking to fly in a premium cabin. American Airlines, Brussels Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc are airline partners to keep an eye on.

It’s not all great news with Etihad, as partner award flights need to be booked by phone. The process isn’t as bad as it sounds, however, it’s not as simple as booking the flight online.

Hot Tip:  Etihad Guest partners with an array of airline partners. Many of these partners have prices in their award charts that you simply will not find as low anywhere else. 

American Airlines and Royal Air Maroc fly a number of routes that will get you close to Croatia. From there, you’ll book a cheap cash or points flight to get the rest of the way.

• Miami (MIA) – Milan (MXP) for 100,000 Etihad miles in American Airlines business class
• Washington (IAD) – Casablanca (CMN) for 88,000 Etihad miles in Royal Air Maroc business class

As mentioned, a phone call is required to book Etihad partner airline flights:

• Search for American Airlines flights on British Airways and Qantas.
• Search for Brussels Airlines flights on United.
• Call Etihad at 877-690-0767 to confirm award availability.

Flying MIA-MXP? See the above “Iberia Avios” section on booking hopper flights from MXP to Croatia — we’ll go in-depth there!

There are no non-stop flights between CMN and Croatia, so you have 2 options: fly to another European city nearby, hang out there for a few days, and then head to Croatia, or fly on a 1-stop itinerary to Croatia. One of the best ways to book a 1-stop itinerary is by using Iberia Avios to fly via Madrid. Flying CMN-MAD-ZAG costs 12,000 Iberia Avios off-peak or 13,250 on-peak in economy class.

You can transfer Membership Rewards , Ultimate Rewards , and Marriott Bonvoy points to Iberia Avios. Plus, you can transfer British Airways Avios to Iberia Avios so long as both accounts have been open for 90+ days.

Earning Etihad Guest Miles

Etihad has partnerships with American Express, Capital One, Citi, and Marriott. For this reason, it’s super easy to earn Etihad Guest miles . The points that you earn in these programs can be transferred directly to Etihad.

For those of you looking to transfer points, American Express points transfer instantly at a 1:1 ratio, Capital One Miles transfers take 36 hours at a 1:1 ratio, Citi transfers take 7 days at a 1:1 ratio, and Marriott point transfers take 3 days at a 1:1 ratio. With Marriott transfers, you’ll receive a 5,000-mile bonus with every 60,000 points that you transfer.

Bottom Line: 88,000 miles for business round-trip on Royal Air Maroc is one of the cheapest transatlantic business class flights that you’ll find. 

Although you can’t fly nonstop to Croatia from the U.S., it’s an easy 1-stop flight. The country is incredibly beautiful and should certainly be added to your dream travel list.

To wrap things up, earn transferable points before booking your next trip to Croatia. American Express, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Marriott each have airline partners that will help you to book an incredible trip to this eastern European country.

The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Bold ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer. The information regarding the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless ® Credit Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Bevy™ American Express ® Card, click here . For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant ® American Express ® card, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How many air miles do you need for europe.

The lowest number of miles needed for economy, business, and first class flights in this list are 26,000, 68,000, and 100,000 miles respectively.

How do you travel with points?

Banks and hotels have partnerships with airlines. These partnerships allow you to transfer points from a bank and/or hotel. With the transferred points, you can book an award flight or hotel.

How do you use credit card points for free travel?

American Express, Capital One, Chase, Citi, and Marriott earn transferable points. These points can be transferred directly to their airline and hotel partners for award flights and hotel rooms.

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About Michael McHugh

Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Michael took his first international trip in 2013 with friends to the Bahamas. Although he didn’t travel much in his younger years, on that trip, he caught the travel bug and has been hooked ever since.

Michael first caught wind of the points and miles game in 2014 while at a bar in Washington, DC where the conversation amongst friends was quickly derailed because of an alert on a friend’s phone about a mistake fare.  That’s where the love affair with points and miles began.

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16 BEST Places to Visit in Croatia this Summer

C roatia is a summer love story waiting to happen. The backdrop? The sparkling Adriatic Sea and its thousand islands, the iconic limestone cities of the Dalmatian coast, and the stunning waterfalls and verdant national parks behind the famous coastline.

With sun-soaked beaches, ancient walled cities, and postcard-perfect landscapes, Croatia has no shortage of world-famous ‘bucket list’ destinations as well as many lesser-known hidden gems waiting to be discovered. But what are the best places to visit in Croatia? 

Croatia is a country that caters to just about every type of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacking beach bum, a history (or fantasy) buff wishing to stand above the walled cities, or just a family looking for your own slice of unspoiled Mediterranean paradise, Croatia has you well and truly covered.

In this guide, we’ll dive into some of Croatia’s most deservedly famous spots to the lesser-known nooks that are Croatia’s best-kept secrets.

This travel guide details the 16 best places to visit in Croatia – from the cities, to the islands, and tiny unknown towns.

Best places to visit in Croatia

If you’re planning a trip to this incredible Balkan country, you’ll surely want to include many of these incredible destinations in Croatia on your itinerary.

Dubrovnik: The Historic Walled City

If you’re prepared to battle the throngs of crowds descending on Dubrovnik each summer, you’ll be treated to one of Croatia’s most iconic and arguably most beautiful cities.

Entering the walled city of this UNESCO World Heritage site is like stepping into a history book but with better cafés. Wander along the Stradun, where every cobblestone tells tales of the past, and don’t forget to climb the city walls.

Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the Adriatic, returning in the cool of the evening to sip a gemišt in a tucked-away square and let the city’s magic work its charm. As the sun dips, the old town shimmers under the moonlight, transforming into a scene straight out of a romantic novella.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN DUBROVNIK

Split: Gateway to the Islands

Split is another marquee name on Croatia’s roster of world-class destinations. It is incredibly popular, not just for its blend of historical charm and modern sophistication but for its strategic position as a jumping-off point to explore some of Croatia’s best islands .

The heart of the city is Diocletian’s Palace , the palace of the ancient Roman emperor, which makes up half the city’s old town. Wander inside, and you’ll find a maze of streets brimming with bars, shops, and a few thousand years of history.

Don’t miss the Riva Promenade, perfect for people-watching and sea-gazing. Grab a gelato and join the locals in their favorite pastime: strolling and chatting, often at the same time.

Split is also your gateway to island-hopping adventures. Fancy a day trip to Hvar or Brač? Ferries are ready to whisk you away to these sun-soaked islands.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN SPLIT

Plitvice Lakes National Park: Iconic Scenes

The iconic scenes of the Plitvice Lakes National Park are instantly recognizable as one of the most impressive sets of terraced waterfalls anywhere in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a variety of trails, and each one is a walking postcard.

The lower lakes are all about dramatic waterfalls, while the upper lakes offer serene views. Boardwalks meander through the park, sometimes right over the water, in an immersive and spellbinding experience.

A paradise for photography enthusiasts, set your alarm to get the best photos in the morning light. And if you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, including deer, owls, and maybe even a bear.

Plitvice is also a lesson in patience and preservation. With its popularity comes responsibility, so stick to the paths. This place is all about enjoying nature’s wonders without leaving a mark.

FIND THE BEST DAY TOURS TO PLITVICE LAKES NATIONAL PARK

Hvar: The Sun-Soaked Island

Hvar – an island so sunny, with an average of 2,724 hours of sunshine a year definitely deserves a ranking among the best places to visit in Croatia. But it’s after the sun goes down that Hvar shines, with a glamourous reputation for beach bars and all night clubs.

Hvar has a lot more to offer than just its glitzy surface. Start your adventure in Hvar Town, where historical architecture meets a buzzing nightlife. Stroll through the quaint streets, and you’ll find Gothic palaces cozied up next to trendy bars.

A hike up to Fortress Fortica rewards you with views that will make your heart skip a beat – but maybe that’s just the climb.

For a taste of the quieter side of Hvar, head to Stari Grad. This old town is more laid-back, with its winding streets and sleepy squares. It’s the perfect backdrop for enjoying a coffee while pondering life’s big questions, like “Should I have gelato now or later?”

Don’t forget the Pakleni Islands , a stone’s throw away and a haven for beach lovers. These little slices of paradise offer crystal-clear waters and hidden coves – ideal for a day of swimming, sunbathing, and pretending you’re on a deserted island.

Hvar’s vineyards are another must-visit. The local grape varieties produce some of Croatia’s most unique wines. After a day of exploring, nothing beats watching the sunset with a glass of local wine in hand.

Rovinj: A Charming Coastal Town

Rovinj, a slice of Italian charm on Croatia’s coast, boasts Venetian-style buildings and winding cobblestone streets. The picturesque St. Euphemia Church reigns from a hilltop, offering incredible views.

A short boat ride away, the Rovinj Archipelago beckons with hidden beaches and unspoiled nature. Explore art galleries and perhaps catch a local artist at work.

Evenings in Rovinj are for marina strolls and unforgettable sunset boat rides , followed by seafood feasts at waterside restaurants.

Zagreb: The Cultural Hub

While many will miss it as they make a beeline straight for the Adriatic Coast, the capital city of Zagreb is a worthy stop on any Croatian itinerary.

Begin your journey at Ban Jelačić Square, the city’s bustling heart, then wander through the historic Upper Town, where cobblestone streets and the majestic Zagreb Cathedral await. Don’t miss the colorful Saint Mark’s Church, as well, known for its colorful tiled roof.

A standout attraction is the unique Museum of Broken Relationships , a poignant collection of items that share tales of lost love – it’s moving and therapeutic.

Zagreb’s cafe culture is a way of life; join the locals in sipping espresso or enjoying people-watching at the countless cafes.

The capital city also makes for a great place to base yourself if you want to journey across the border into Slovenia to spend a day in Ljubljana . Located just 2 hours away by car, Ljubljana is an easy drive or guided tour from Zagreb.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND EXCURSIONS IN ZAGREB

Zadar: A City of Sunsets and Sound

Zadar, a city that marries the ancient and the innovative, is all about sensory experiences. Start your journey at the Roman Forum, where history whispers through ancient ruins. Nearby, the St. Donatus Church stands as a testament to early Christian architecture.

The Sea Organ is another popular attraction on the town’s promenade, playing the melodies created by the sea itself. Next door, the Sun Salutation, also known as the Monument to the Sun, is a solar-powered installation that offers a mesmerizing light show at dusk.

Zadar’s evenings are best spent by the waterfront. As the sun dips below the horizon, find a cozy spot to witness the famous Zadar sunset – a daily masterpiece.

Boat tours are a popular choice here, offering a unique perspective of the city, and, if you’re lucky, the sight of dolphins surfing on the gentle Adriatic waves.

Korčula: The Emerald Isle

Korčula, often called the “Emerald Isle,” an island shrouded in dense forests and dotted with medieval towns, feels like a journey back in time.

There are so many fun things to do in Korcula . Start exploring Korčula Old Town, where narrow streets wind past ancient stone buildings. The alleged birthplace of Marco Polo proudly shows off its medieval charm.

For a taste of local culture, experience a traditional Moreska sword dance performance. It’s a thrilling spectacle that tells a story of love and battle.

Wine enthusiasts, take note – Korčula’s vineyards produce some exceptional wines. Visit local wineries for tastings and get a glimpse of the island’s winemaking traditions.

When it’s time to relax in the sun, Korčula’s beaches won’t disappoint. Whether you prefer sandy shores or hidden coves, the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic are waiting for you.

Pula: A Glimpse into Roman History

Pula, a coastal city on the Istrian Peninsula, is like an open-air museum of Roman history. At its heart stands the Pula Arena , a remarkably preserved Roman amphitheater that could give the Colosseum a run for its money. Walking through its ancient corridors feels like stepping into a gladiator movie.

But Pula’s Roman legacy doesn’t end there. Take a walking tour of the city to discover well-preserved arches, gates, and temples, remnants of its rich past. The Roman Forum and the Triumphal Arch of Sergius are testaments to the city’s historical significance.

Pula isn’t stuck in the past, though. It’s a city with a vibrant present, hosting film festivals and concerts within the amphitheater’s historic walls, making it one of the best places to visit in Croatia.

If you’re up for an adventure, take a boat to Brijuni National Park , an archipelago of lush islands that was once Tito’s summer playground. Explore the safari park, ancient ruins, and beautiful landscapes.

Primošten: Croatia’s Prettiest Town?

Perched on an isthmus with the Adriatic lapping at its edges, Primošten is definitely in the conversation when it comes to Croatia’s most picturesque towns.

There are plenty of things to do in Primošten , but the first is to explore the quaint and historic village.

The old town, a delightful maze of cobblestone streets, sits upon the isthmus like a child’s sandcastle waiting to be explored. It’s here, among the tightly knit stone houses, that you’ll stumble upon the majestic Church of St. George. The church sits at the highest point like it climbed up there to get a better view of the Adriatic. And what a view it is.

But Primosten isn’t just about stunning vistas and quaint streets. It’s also home to Babić vineyards that cling to the rocky terrain with a stubbornness that’s mirrored in the robust local wines they produce. A sip of these, and you’ll understand why the town takes its winemaking as seriously as its beach lounging.

For adventurers, Primosten is more than a pretty face. The beaches surrounding Primosten are some of Croatia’s most spectacular. Primosten is also a launchpad to the Kornati Islands and Krka National Park, offering a smorgasbord of outdoor activities.

Bale: A Step Back in Time

Bale, a charming town in Istria, is a hidden treasure waiting to be uncovered. As you wander through its cobblestone streets and alleyways, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time.

The town’s medieval architecture, with its stone buildings and quaint squares, creates an atmosphere of timeless beauty. Stroll through Bale’s Old Town and you’ll encounter historical gems like the Soardo-Bembo Palace.

One of the unique aspects of Bale is its vibrant arts scene. The town is home to numerous art galleries and studios, where you can witness local artists at work. It’s a place where creativity thrives, and you might just stumble upon a masterpiece in the making.

Bale also hosts cultural and music events throughout the year, making it a hub for artistic expression. Check the local calendar for concerts and festivals that showcase the town’s lively spirit.

In Bale, time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor the beauty of history, art, and culture in a tranquil setting.

Rijeka: A Port City with a Rich History

Rijeka is Croatia’s largest port city. As you explore its streets, be sure to observe the blend of different cultural influences, from its Austro-Hungarian architecture to its Mediterranean charm.

Rijeka’s Trsat Castle, perched on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city and the Kvarner Bay. It’s a historical gem that’s worth the climb, and the picturesque Korzo promenade below is perfect for leisurely strolls.

The city’s maritime heritage comes alive at the Maritime and History Museum, where you can delve into Rijeka’s seafaring past.

Nearby, the Ivan Zajc Croatian National Theatre hosts opera and ballet performances, showcasing the city’s cultural diversity.

Rijeka’s multicultural spirit is also reflected in its cuisine. Try local dishes influenced by Italian and Hungarian flavors at waterfront restaurants.

Rijeka also makes for a great place to base yourself if you want to take a day trip to some of the most beautiful places in Slovenia , as well – like Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle .

Brijuni Islands: Croatia’s Presidential Paradise

The Brijuni Islands, a collection of 14 islands in the Adriatic Sea, are like a slice of paradise reserved for presidents. Once the summer retreat for the former president of the now defunct Yugoslavia, these islands boast both natural beauty and historical significance.

The star attraction on Veli Brijun island is the Brijuni Safari Park . Here, you can encounter zebras, elephants, and other exotic animals, all living on this Mediterranean island. It’s a surreal experience that feels like a journey to another continent.

But the Brijuni Islands aren’t just about wildlife. They also hold a treasure trove of historical sites, including Roman ruins, Byzantine forts, and the Yugoslavian president’s former residence, now a museum.

Exploring the islands is a breeze with guided tours that take you through their highlights. You can also enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.

Krka National Park: Nature’s Masterpiece

Krka National Park is a natural wonderland in Croatia. Here, the Krka River weaves its way through a series of cascading waterfalls, creating a landscape that’s nothing short of magical.

The park offers a network of wooden boardwalks and hiking trails that allow you to explore its beauty up close. Be prepared to be wowed by Skradinski Buk, the park’s most famous waterfall, where you can even take a refreshing swim.

For a different perspective, take a boat tour along the river, passing through lush greenery and ancient monasteries.

The sight of waterfalls cascading into crystal-clear pools is a photographer’s dream.

Krka isn’t just about waterfalls; it’s also a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for the diverse bird species that call this park home, as well as the occasional fox or otter.

FIND THE BEST TOURS AND DAY TRIPS TO KRKA NATIONAL PARK

Kornati Islands: A Sailor’s Paradise

The Kornati Islands, often referred to as a “nautical paradise,” are an archipelago of 89 islands and islets that beckon sailors and nature enthusiasts.

Sailing through the Kornati National Park is like navigating through a postcard-worthy seascape. The barren cliffs, hidden coves, and azure waters create a surreal backdrop.

Drop anchor in one of the secluded bays, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered your private piece of heaven.

Snorkeling and diving in these waters are unparalleled experiences. The underwater world is teeming with marine life and colorful reefs, making it a paradise for underwater explorers.

While the islands are primarily uninhabited, you can find a few charming fishing villages where you can enjoy fresh seafood and local hospitality. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor the catch of the day at a waterfront restaurant.

Šibenik: A Coastal Gem with Medieval Flair

Šibenik, a coastal gem on the Adriatic, is a city where history and beauty converge. Its medieval old town, a labyrinth of narrow alleys and stone buildings, is a treasure trove of historical wonders.

The crown jewel of Šibenik is the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its intricate stone lacework and stunning architecture make it a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance art.

Climb the cathedral’s bell tower for panoramic views of the city and the sea or join an evening walking tour to explore the town as the sun sets.

Šibenik is also known for its fortresses, with St. Michael’s Fortress and St. Nicholas’ Fortress offering glimpses into the city’s defensive past. Each fortress comes with its own captivating history and breathtaking vistas. 

The city’s waterfront promenade, Riva, is the perfect place to unwind and watch boats go by. Šibenik’s lively atmosphere comes alive during summer festivals and events, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in local culture.

And when it comes to dining, Šibenik’s restaurants offer a mix of Mediterranean and Croatian cuisine. Savor seafood dishes and local wines while overlooking the picturesque bay.

Cultural Festivals and Events: Where Croatia Comes to Life

Croatia isn’t just about stunning landscapes; it’s a country that knows how to celebrate life. Throughout the year, you’ll find a calendar filled with cultural festivals and events that bring communities together and showcase the country’s spirit.

One of the most famous events is the Dubrovnik Summer Festival , a grand celebration of the arts. Held in the stunning backdrop of Dubrovnik’s old town, it features theater, music, and dance performances that transport you to another world.

If you’re a music enthusiast, don’t miss the INmusic Festival in Zagreb. This open-air festival hosts international and local bands, making it a must-visit for music lovers.

For a taste of local traditions, attend the Sinjska Alka in Sinj, a knightly competition that dates back to the 18th century. Watch as knights on horseback aim their lances at a hanging metal ring – it’s a thrilling spectacle.

And if you’re a film buff, the Pula Film Festival in Pula is your ticket to cinematic delights. It’s one of the oldest film festivals in Europe and showcases a diverse range of films.

What to Eat and Drink in Croatia

From the coast to the interior, you’ll find Croatian cuisine reflects the flavors of its different regional influences.

Start with seafood along the coast. Fresh Adriatic fish, calamari, and mussels take center stage in dishes like “brudet” and “black risotto.” Don’t forget to try “Dalmatinska pašticada,” a slow-cooked beef stew that’s a Dalmatian specialty.

In Istria, the truffle reigns supreme. Indulge in truffle-infused dishes, from pasta to cheese, and savor the earthy aroma of this exquisite delicacy.

Venture inland to Zagreb, where “štrukli,” a cheese pastry, is a local favorite. Pair it with “kulen,” a spicy sausage, and you’ve got yourself a traditional Croatian meal.

And of course, Croatia is known for its wine. Explore the vineyards of Istria and enjoy crisp white wines and robust reds. In Dalmatia, try the local “plavac mali” or indulge in the sweet dessert wine, “prošek.”

End your meal with “kava,” Croatian coffee, or a glass of “rakija,” a fruit brandy that’s popular across the country.

Tips for Travelers: Navigating Croatia with Ease

While it is good to have an idea of the best places to visit in Croatia, as you start planning your trip, these travel tips will come in handy. Navigating Croatia will be a breeze with these tips that are sure to enhance your travel experience.

• Currency: The official currency is now the Euro. While many places accept credit cards, it’s wise to have some cash on hand, especially in rural areas.
• Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas. Although Croatian isn’t one of the primary languages to learn for travel, learning a few basic Croatian phrases can be a fun way to connect with locals.
• Transportation: It’s easy to get around in Croatia, and most major cities such as Zagreb, Split , and Dubrovnik which are well served by public transport, taxis, and rideshare. For longer distances, Croatia offers an efficient network of buses, ferries, and domestic flights. Renting a car is a great way to explore the countryside, but be prepared for narrow roads and occasional tolls.
• Island Hopping: Exploring Croatia’s archipelago of islands is a must-do here. Check out popular routes and pre-purchase tickets with Ferryhopper .
• Seasonal Timing: Summer (June to August) is ideal for experiencing Croatia however, be prepared for warm weather and crowds in tourist hotspots.
• Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying local specialties. Each region has its own culinary delights, so explore the menus and savor the flavors.
• Respect Local Customs: Croatians are friendly and hospitable, so reciprocate with respect. Dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
• Safety: Croatia is generally safe for travelers. Exercise the usual precautions, like safeguarding your belongings, and you’ll have a worry-free trip.
• National Parks: If you plan to visit national parks like Plitvice Lakes or Krka, arrive early to beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
• Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. It’s a wise precaution for peace of mind.

Final Thoughts on Croatia’s Summertime Splendor

With its stunning coastlines, historic towns, and cultural heritage, Croatia is an ideal summer vacation. From the sun-soaked beaches of Hvar to the medieval charm of Dubrovnik, each of these best places to visit in Croatia offers a unique experience.

As you journey through this picturesque country, don’t forget to savor the local cuisine, attend cultural festivals, and immerse yourself in the warmth of Croatian hospitality.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation on the Adriatic shores, adventure in the national parks, or cultural immersion in the historic capital, Croatia promises to be an unforgettable trip.

Do you have a question or comment about any of the best places to visit in Croatia? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Lonely Plan-it: how to plan a Croatian island-hopping adventure

Feb 7, 2023 • 7 min read

With a bit of planning, you can get the most out of a jaunt across Croatia’s staggeringly beautiful islands © Getty Images/ iStockphoto

In Lonely Plan-it, we take you step by step through how we planned some of the most complicated travel adventures, so you can recreate them yourself with ease. Here, writer Lucie Grace shares how to put together the perfect Croatian island-hopping trip. 

When I moved to Croatia , I was aware of length of the country and its sprawling coastline. But the number of islands and islets here? That came as a surprise.

“More than 1200” is definitely not the answer I would have guessed. So after arriving, I decided to leave my suitcases at my friend’s hostel in the leafy, laid-back capital of Zagreb and trundled off with just a backpack to see as many of the 48 inhabited islands as I could. I started with the Dalmatian Coast, keen to visit the most famous destinations and catch a glimpse of the dazzling Renaissance churches and baroque town halls before tourism bounced back. 

I don’t drive a car – but since bus, train and ferry links in Croatia are cheap and efficient, reaching the islands is entirely doable without getting behind the wheel. And no matter how long the journey takes, once you dip your toes in the clear waters of the Adriatic, you’ll forget all about the bus you were just on.

The ultimate island-hopping trip does take a bit of planning, though – not only to home in on your must-see destinations, but also to research ferry schedules, off-season closures and local festivals. Accept that you’ll barely scratch the surface, put FOMO to bed and aim for the spots that appeal most: fewer is more in the island game.

Luckily, we’re here to demystify the process, with some helpful tips and practical pointers. 

Step 1: Pick your loop 

Decide whether to see the greatest hits or to visit lesser-known spots. 

First things first: ask yourself if you’re committed to jumping between islands. If not, you can always do as the locals do and spend your vacation happily grazing and lazing on just one. Rustic Šolta , olive grove–dotted Ugljan or the rugged shores of Vis are great picks, all being idyllic yet easily accessible from mainland city ports. 

Definitely keen to visit a few? Decide between doing a loop of the Dalmatian islands in the  south  or exploring the equally charming archipelago in the Kvarner Gulf to the  north . 

The classic Dalmatian-coast route employs ferries that start in Split and link  Brač ,  Hvar ,  Korčula  and  Mljet , before ending in  Dubrovnik  (or the other way around, starting in Dubrovnik and ending in  Split ). It boasts popular islands like Hvar, while also ensuring you can see two of the country's top cities for travelers. 

The  Kvarner  islands are ever-so-slightly less trodden, and include  Krk ,  Cres ,  Lošinj ,  Pag  and  Rab , in the bay between the vibrant maritime cities of  Rijeka  and Zadar. This cluster is  just as wonderful as the Dalmatian islands , if marginally less popular due to their lack of  Game of Thrones  cachet.

Regardless, all of Croatia’s islands have buckets of charm, with different traditions, foods and scenery. 

Step 2: Find the right time of year 

Ferry schedules vary by seasons, so find the time that works for you. 

You’ve chosen your route? Now to select the best time to go . Spring and autumn are the perfect seasons to immerse yourself in local culture and gastronomy, when the climate is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. Cyclists and hikers enjoy the fresh temperatures of these seasons too – they just require some extra organization as you’ll need to work around the irregular ferries. 

The two main ferry services –  Krilo and state-owned Jadrolina – start ramping up their daily services come May and June, adding ever-more service throughout the glorious summer months. But August is best dodged: as in Italy , Croatia subscribes to the tradition of closing the office for the month of August to relax on (you guessed it) an Adriatic island. This makes accommodation scarce and pricey, and adds traffic to otherwise quiet beach roads. Aside from August, summer is ideal for beach lovers; the konoba restaurants and guest houses are open, and there’s a swathe of festivals to add to your itinerary.

A few top local shindigs to have on your radar: the Easter weekend procession Za Križen (“Following the Cross’’) on Hvar; the Korčula Sword Dance Festival , performed from June to September; EDM fun at Hideout Festival on Pag in July; and the Brač Film Festival in August.

Finally, if you’re a committed off-peak traveler, it’s not impossible to cruise to a few islands in the winter, as a skeleton service of ferries does run to keep the islands connected. Just keep in mind that the winds are fierce and many businesses close during the off-season; I wouldn’t recommend visiting then unless you have a novel to write.

Step 3: Decide how many nights to spend on each island

Our advice: you're not going to want to rush on any of these amazing islands. 

Now that you’ve pinpointed your region and time of year to visit, it’s time to pick the islands that provide the sort of experience you want from your holiday. Do you fancy wild, unspoiled beaches? Head to Cres. Roman ruins? It’s Hvar you’re after. Wine-tasting at rolling vineyards? Don’t miss Korčula. Dancing all night long? Pag is for you. And then there’s the most scenic beach in the country, the famous peninsula of Zlatni Rat , on Brač. I also rate Krk very highly, as I love to visit abandoned buildings: the seaside town of Malinska is home to the Haludovo Palace Hotel , a dilapidated modernist masterpiece (but since you’ll have to enter at your own risk, you didn’t hear that from me).

Once you’ve worked out whether you’re after rest and relaxation or all the food and culture you can get your hands on, decide how many days to spend on each island. The ferries may dictate the length of your sojourn, depending on the month you go; either way, don’t rush it. I definitely advise two nights minimum per stop – ideally three, to really relax into the pace of island life. No one wants to end a vacation more exhausted than they started it.

Step 4: Book your accommodation and transport 

Spontaneity is great, but Croatian island-hopping benefits from some planning. 

Finally, it’s time to get booking. I’d start the accommodation trawl a few months before you go so as to have your pick of the best places. It’s also smart to book your bus tickets a few weeks prior. Local bus service Arriva Croatia offers routes on the islands, with seats bookable up to 30 days in advance; you save 50% by buying as soon as they go on sale, with fares cheaper on the phone app than the website (download it in advance). I’d also advise booking ferry spots in advance. You’ll be fine booking the main routes a day or two before you set sail – but best not to chance it if you’re traveling outside the summer months when services are less frequent. If you’re taking the scenic train from Zagreb to Split or vice versa, that’s worth pre-booking, too, as it’s a small train and it fills up fast.

If I could do it all over again…

My next visit to a Croatian island or two (or 14) will certainly be less rushed, and I’ll plan to stay on each island for longer. One night on sleepy Cres is not enough; I’m still reminiscing over the smell of cypress trees and the light dancing on the crystal blue bays. I won’t be staying bang in the center of Hvar old town again, though: it’s the clubbing center of the Dalmatian islands, so not for you unless you want to party all night (if you do, then don’t miss it).

Pack your own food if you’re vegan; dietary requirements are catered to in big Croatian cities but less so on the islands. And of course, driving is much easier than relying on buses. I’ve since got my motorbike license – so I’ll be rolling along in 2023.

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