Experience the highlights of Croatia in just one week with this itinerary

For some of the most stunning Mediterranean coastlines, featuring sparkling islands, beautifully preserved medieval towns, unspoiled national parks, and exquisite cuisine, make your way to Croatia.

Beginning in Zagreb and concluding in Dubrovnik, this seven-day itinerary is ideal for first-time travelers. You’ll discover the Croatian capital and UNESCO World Heritage sites along the Dalmatian coast, taking catamarans or ferries to visit enchanting islands. We’ve included stunning beaches, remarkable architecture, delectable food and wine, exceptional museums, and sunsets that will leave you breathless. What are you waiting for?

Ready to begin your planning? Align your visit perfectly with our seasonal guide

• When to visit: Late spring and early autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists. However, for the most reliable ferry connections to the islands, aim for the peak season from June to August, when services are at their most frequent.

• Getting to/from the airports: A 40-minute bus ride connects Zagreb's airport to the city center bus station, with tickets available online or from the driver. Taxis are also available outside the terminal. In Dubrovnik, catch the airport shuttle bus from the main bus station, Grawe station, the Old Town cable car stop, or outside One Suite hotel. Tickets can be purchased at the stops or online.

• What to bring: Swim shoes are highly recommended for beach outings. It’s inappropriate to wander beach towns in swimwear, so pack casual clothes as well. Consider including dressier outfits for evenings and attire that covers shoulders and thighs for visits to religious sites.

Visiting Croatia for the first time? Here’s what you need to know before you go

Day 1: kick off your week in Zagreb

While many Croatian itineraries focus solely on the coast and islands, skipping the Croatian capital means you're missing a crucial part of the country. Zagreb boasts fantastic museums and galleries, lively bars, cozy cafes, and restaurants, all nestled within a beautifully preserved old town featuring Secessionist-style architecture.

How to spend your day: Begin with a walking tour of the Upper Town (Gornji grad), highlighted by the iconic St Mark’s Church. Be sure to visit the fascinating and one-of-a-kind Museum of Broken Relationships. Then, stroll downhill to explore the large open market and the stunning Gothic cathedral. From the vibrant Ban Jelačić Square, meander through the parks and squares leading towards the main railway station.

Take a breather: When you crave a coffee or drink, head to Tkalčićeva, a lively, pedestrian-only street brimming with colorful cafes.

Day 2: enjoy the sunset from Zadar's waterfront

Morning: Catch an early bus to Zadar, which takes about hours. If you're driving, consider a stop at the stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park along the way.

How to spend the day: Zadar's old town features a captivating maze of narrow streets and medieval churches, all perched on a slim peninsula offering stunning sunset views from the waterfront. Be sure to visit the Cathedral of St Anastasia and the unique Church of St Donatus, located next to the Roman Forum.

Take a breather: Indulge in some ice cream, or relax by the seafront next to the fascinating Sea Organ (a stone “instrument” that creates eerie sounds driven by the tides), while soaking in the view of the islands.

Dinner: Before enjoying an exceptional meal at Foša, known for its exquisite seafood and charming waterside terrace (reservations recommended), take in the sunset from the Greetings to the Sun installation along the waterfront.

Exploring more of Croatia? Check out our guide to navigating the country

Day 3: immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Split

Morning: Catch a 2.5-hour bus ride to your next stop: Split, a vibrant coastal city known for its stunning architecture and lively nightlife.

How to spend the day: The bustling core of Split is Diocletian’s Palace. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in the 4th century, served as a grand retirement retreat for Roman emperor Diocletian. The sprawling complex features countless buildings added over the centuries and is now home to about 3000 residents. Begin your exploration here; getting lost is part of the adventure.

Make your way to the heart of the palace to marvel at the beautifully preserved Roman Peristil (courtyard) and the octagonal Cathedral of St Domnius, originally Diocletian’s mausoleum. Below the surface, the palace’s substructures offer a captivating atmosphere to explore. You might feel like dragons are nearby, as these very substructures served as the backdrop for Daenerys’s home in Game of Thrones.

Dinner: There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and bars in the old city when hunger strikes. Nosotromo, situated across from the fish market, is a top choice for savoring fresh Adriatic seafood. In the evening, take a leisurely walk and enjoy a drink along the Riva waterfront promenade.

Day 4: unwind at the iconic Zlatni Rat beach near Bol

Morning: Catch a fast catamaran from Split to Bol on Brač Island. This charming town is renowned for Zlatni Rat beach, a stunning stretch of smooth white pebbles that juts 500m (1640ft) into the Adriatic, accessed via a mile-long stroll along a pine-lined waterfront promenade.

How to spend the day: This popular beach is also an excellent windsurfing spot due to its consistent winds. For breathtaking views over to Hvar and beyond, embark on a two-hour hike to Vidova Gora. At 778m (2552ft), it’s the highest point in the Adriatic Islands. Remember to pack water, sunscreen, and a sun hat, as there’s little shade on the trail.

Planning tip: If you're visiting outside of peak season, direct catamarans to Bol are unavailable, running only from June to September. No problem: you can take the regular ferry from Split to Supetar and then catch a bus across the island to Bol—just be sure to allow extra time for potential traffic delays near Supetar.

In the evening: If time allows, hop on a local bus to explore the UNESCO-listed Trogir and its remarkable 13th-century cathedral.

Day 5: relax in Hvar Town and discover the old town of Korčula

Morning: During the peak season (June to September), there are multiple catamaran options for traveling from Split to Korčula Town, and it’s easy to stop in Hvar Town to unwind along the way. Keep in mind that catamarans between Split, Hvar, Korčula, and Dubrovnik can sell out quickly in summer, so it's wise to purchase your tickets in advance.

How to spend the day: The sparkling capital of Hvar Island, Hvar Town, is one of Croatia’s most glamorous destinations, renowned for its lively nightlife and beautiful historic architecture set against a breathtaking backdrop. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, passing charming churches and squares; if you’re in the mood for a swim, hop on a boat to the Pakleni Islands. Later, catch an afternoon catamaran to Korčula—or if Hvar captures your heart, consider taking a direct catamaran to Dubrovnik tomorrow.

Korčula Town is a stunning walled settlement perched on a boat-shaped peninsula extending into the Adriatic Sea. Encircled by a ring of walls and towers, the old town is anchored by the 15th-century St Mark’s Cathedral, which features artworks by Tintoretto and Ivan Meštrović. Known for its wine, be sure to taste some at one of the local wine bars near the harbor.

Dinner: Hvar Town offers numerous dining options. Macondo, located on the harbor, specializes in freshly caught fish and steaks stuffed with seasonal local ingredients like olives.

Day 6: get ready to be amazed by Dubrovnik’s historic old town

Morning: In high season (June to September), catamarans operate between Korčula Town and Dubrovnik. During off-peak times, take a car ferry from Dominče to Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula and then catch a bus to Dubrovnik. Your first view of Dubrovnik’s UNESCO-listed old town—its stunning white limestone walls towering above the sparkling turquoise waters of the Adriatic—will leave you speechless. Plan to spend at least two days discovering this incredible city and its surroundings.

How to spend the day: Stroll along the marble streets within the walls, visiting the city’s numerous palaces, churches, and museums. It’s best to tackle the city walls first thing in the morning, so save that for tomorrow if you just arrived from Korčula. Don’t miss the War Photo Limited gallery, which offers a profound experience with its permanent collection of war photography from former Yugoslavia and temporary exhibits on global conflicts.

Dinner: Enjoy a hearty seafood feast at the taverna-style Glorijet by the water, or try Nishta for a unique vegan and vegetarian menu that showcases Croatia's rich bounty of fresh produce.

In the evening: Wrap up your day with a cable car ride up Mt Srđ, located just behind the old town, to catch the sunset reflecting off the rooftops before you take a dip in the Adriatic Sea.

Day 7: stroll along the city walls of Dubrovnik and take a dip at Lokrum

How to spend the day: Begin your second day in Dubrovnik with a walk atop the ancient city walls; aim to arrive as soon as they open to beat the crowds. This is the quintessential Dubrovnik experience, and exploring the various towers while enjoying panoramic views of the old town rooftops and the sparkling Adriatic will take at least a couple of hours.

In the afternoon, make your way outside the city for a refreshing swim, whether on Lokrum Island, just a 10-minute ferry ride away, or at one of the nearby beaches. Conclude your day with a sunset drink at one of the quaint bars perched on the rocks outside the city walls of Dubrovnik.