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Looking for the last word Croatia itinerary? I’m so excited to share this with you! Croatia is among the greatest locations on this planet to go to in the summertime months, the place you may get pleasure from spectacular shoreline, vibrant turquoise water, lovely cities, and a lot extra.
I’ve been exploring Croatia extensively for greater than a decade and even received Croatia’s prime journey writing award for foreigners, the Golden Pen Grand Prix, in 2021. This is a rustic that has meant lots to me for a very long time, and I like serving to my readers plan Croatia journeys.
So you need to plan a visit to Croatia! Great! This itinerary is structured as a two-week Croatia journey, however I additionally embody data on reducing it all the way down to 10 days or 7 days, plus some extra 3- or 4-day itineraries for Istria and Montenegro which you could simply add on to the 7-day itinerary for one thing completely different.
You can obtain this as a printable itinerary right here!
This publish was revealed in June 2023.
![View of Hvar Town from the Spanish Fortress: a view from above, you see a small harbor surrounded with white buildings topped with orange roofs. In the distance are the green Pakleni Islands.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/View-of-Hvar-Town-1024x705.jpg)
Two Weeks In Croatia Itinerary
My final two weeks in Croatia itinerary is finished as a street journey. Croatia is certainly one of my favourite international locations on this planet for a street journey! Roads are in glorious situation, drivers are way more sane than elsewhere within the Balkans, signage is simple to observe, the surroundings is breathtaking, and there are tons of fascinating locations to cease and discover.
Can you do that two-week Croatia itinerary by public transportation? You can — primarily by bus on land and ferry by sea. Buses are significantly better than trains in Croatia (trains don’t even run additional south than Split).
Keep in thoughts that with no automotive, you may take passenger-only catamarans somewhat than automotive ferries, that are sooner and provide you with extra choices. (For instance, passenger ferries to Hvar Town, somewhat than Stari Grad, saving you time.)
This itinerary additionally provides you a whole lot of freedom to do what you need. If you need to spend your time taking plenty of excursions and visiting all of the spots, go forward! If you need to relax and lie on the seaside, that’s cool, too. Most folks lie someplace in between.
I positively suggest prioritizing someday within the center to sit back out with none plans. You’ll want it a couple of week into your journey.
And lastly, certainly one of my massive pet peeves is altering lodging every single day (or when somebody publishes an itinerary that has you altering lodging every single day), so I attempted to maintain resort switching minimal. One evening in Zagreb, two within the Plitvice Lakes, two in Split, three in Hvar, three in Korčula, and three in Dubrovnik.
And if you wish to see extra, simply take day journeys! You can simply go to Vis from Hvar, Mljet from Korčula, and the Elafiti Islands from Dubrovnik — with out having to lug your luggage to one more resort.
Two-Week Croatia Itinerary, Day by Day
This itinerary is good for first-time Croatia guests, who need to see the islands of the Dalmatian Coast, the waterfalls of the Plitvice Lakes, the dynamic capital of Zagreb, and loads of different cool spots. But this additionally provides you sufficient freedom to do your personal factor, no matter which may be.
This itinerary doesn’t embody the area of Istria — however additional down I’ve data on the right way to add just a few days in Istria to a Croatia itinerary! Let’s have a look:
- Day 1: Zagreb
- Day 2: Zagreb, drive to Plitvice Lakes
- Day 3: Plitvice Lakes
- Day 4: Drive to Split by way of Krka or Zadar
- Day 5: Split
- Day 6: Ferry to Hvar
- Days 7-8: Hvar
- Day 9: Ferry to Korčula
- Days 10-11: Korčula
- Days 12: Drive to Dubrovnik by way of Pelješac
- Days 13-14: Dubrovnik
![A fresh produce market outside in Zagreb with lots of red umbrellas, a church tower in the background.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Dolac-Market-Things-to-Do-in-Zagreb-1024x683.jpg)
Days 1-2: Zagreb
Welcome to Croatia — you’re beginning in Zagreb! This small capital metropolis has quite a bit to supply, even because it’s lived within the shadow of Europe’s hottest capitals. You’re particularly going to like the cafe scene and parks right here.
More than something, prioritize visiting the Museum of Broken Relationships, my favourite museum on the PLANET, which is able to deeply transfer you. I additionally suggest exploring each the Upper Town and Lower Town, eating outdoor on Tkalčićeva Street, visiting the Botanical Garden, and hitting up the numerous cool third-wave espresso cafes within the metropolis middle.
If you’re trying to do one thing extra energetic, you may discover Zagreb by bike or take a Croatian cooking class.
Where to Stay in Zagreb
Read More: Complete Guide to Zagreb, Croatia’s Hopping Capital
In the afternoon of Day 2, drive all the way down to the Plitvice Lakes National Park. It’s a couple of two-hour drive from Zagreb. I like to recommend arriving in meal time, as you received’t be exploring the lakes till the next morning.
Where to Stay Near the Plitvice Lakes
![An overhead view of a pathway leading between green lakes in front of several waterfalls in the Plitvice Lakes, Croatia](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Plitvice-Lakes-1024x682.jpg)
Day 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park
This is your full day on the Plitvice Lakes! Here’s your probability to reside in everybody’s screensaver or calendar for just a few hours! (I child, I child, but it surely actually is that lovely.) This is the one factor in your Croatia itinerary at the moment, so take your time and make it rely.
Book your park ticket forward of time if exploring independently, or you may e-book a guided tour if you happen to’d like.
Upon entry, you’ll get entry to a number of strolling trails starting from 3 km (2 miles) to 18 km (11 miles).
Either manner, find time for each the wild, thundering waterfalls of the Upper Lakes, and the Instagram-famous Lower Lakes with their platforms taking you thru smaller waterfalls. There is a ship connecting the 2 of them.
After an energetic day, seize dinner close by and prepare for an early evening — the sooner you begin tomorrow, the extra you may see.
![People walking across a blue disk -- the sun salutation -- on the gray boardwalk in Zadar, Croatia, trees on the left side.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/DSC_04151.jpg)
Day 4: Drive to Split by way of Zadar, Krka National Park, and/or Šibenik
Today, set off for Split within the morning and revel in certainly one of my favourite components of driving in Croatia — going by means of an enormous, lengthy tunnel beneath the mountains, and rising into sunshine! The mountains maintain again the clouds, so that you’ll immediately know you’ve made it to Dalmatia!
You have just a few completely different choices right here. The drive from Plitvice Lakes National Park to Split takes about 2.5 hours, and you could possibly drive straight there, or you could possibly take just a few detours alongside the best way.
You can go to Zadar. Zadar is certainly one of my favourite locations in Croatia — a stupendous and nice seaside metropolis that doesn’t get as many vacationers as Split, with Roman ruins and quirky components like a sea-powered organ. If you’re there for lunch, I like the squid ink gnocchi at Restaurant Bruschetta.
Adding Zadar to your Croatia itinerary will add an additional half-hour of driving to your day.
You can go to Krka National Park and/or Šibenik. Krka National Park is commonly in comparison with the Plitvice Lakes, with its waterfalls and vibrant inexperienced rivers, but it surely’s a lot lower-key and a nice place to get pleasure from nature. The city of Šibenik is simply exterior Krka, making it a simple add-on, and is dwelling to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral.
Adding Krka and Šibenik to your Croatia itinerary will add one other half-hour of driving to your day.
Make it to Split by night, verify into your lodging, and take a stroll alongside the Riva whereas having fun with the sundown.
Where to Stay in Split
![A view from above of Split, Croatia -- a city of stone buildings and orange roofs with one big church tower sticking out; in the background, some tall apartment buildings, then mountains.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Things-to-Do-in-Split-1024x682.jpg)
Day 5: Split
This is your full day within the Dalmatian metropolis of Split — and there’s a lot to do in Split! You could have heard of Diocletian’s Palace — Split’s UNESCO World Heritage Site — however you may not know that the palace is extra like a neighborhood, with tons of retailers and eating places and lodges which might be a part of the palace!
One of one of the best issues to do is climb the bell tower for excellent views over Split. If you need to get pleasure from extra of the outside, hike Marjan Hill or go to Klis Fortress. I like getting a espresso on blood-red Republic Square, and hitting up a few of the wine bars for a glass of pink and a few Pag cheese from the close by island of Pag.
And if you wish to be extra energetic, take a sundown yoga class or go on a bike tour!
For dinner, if you happen to’re getting a bit bored of Croatian meals, I like to recommend To Je Jako, a Honduran-Mexican restaurant that makes a stunning change of tempo. Ever had Honduran meals earlier than? Try the baleadas!
Read More: Complete Guide to Split, Sunny City on the Adriatic
![A clear turquoise bay with some boats in the water and people going for a swim in Hvar, Croatia.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Hvar-Beach-Things-to-Do-in-Hvar-Croatia-1024x663.jpg)
Days 6-8: Hvar
Take the automotive ferry to Hvar on the morning of Day 6, and know that the automotive ferry docks within the city of Stari Grad, not Hvar Town. From right here, head to your lodging (you’ll quickly understand simply how massive of an island that is!) and spend time chilling out, exploring your environment, and taking your first dip within the Adriatic Sea! This is Hvar, child!
If you need a spot to go to, FALKO Beach Bar is a good place to sit back and a brief stroll from Hvar Town, whereas Hula Hula Bar has extra of a celebration vibe because the solar goes down.
For Day 7, I like to recommend exploring Hvar Town, together with climbing as much as the Spanish Fortress for one of the best view. You can add to your day with a brief boat tour — both romantic sundown sail from Hvar, or go on a kayaking journey from Hvar Town to the Pakleni Islands.
For Day 8, I like to recommend driving round and exploring the island of Hvar in depth. There are so many cool seashores to discover, little cities like canal-filled Vrboska, in addition to Jelsa and Stari Grad. You may even go wine tasting or go to lavender fields.
Alternatively, you may take a day journey from Hvar. If you’re eager on visiting the Blue Cave on the island of Vis, it makes essentially the most sense to go to from Hvar, because it’s closest. This day journey by speedboat is very rated.
Where to Stay in Hvar
Read More: Complete Guide to Hvar, Croatia’s Sunniest Island
![Kate wears a racerback top and bike helmet and stands with her hand on her hip, overlooking the vineyards of Lumbarda, Croatia.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Korcula-Croatia-Travel-Guide-1024x686.jpg)
Days September 11: Korčula
Start your subsequent day by taking the ferry from Hvar to Korčula. The automotive ferry will take you from Stari Grad on Hvar to Vela Luka in Korčula (KOR-chu-la), which occurs to be a 40-minute drive from common Korčula Town. Take benefit and take just a few hours of exploring the island from finish to finish.
I like to recommend visiting the gorgeous bay at Zavalatica, which has eating places overlooking the neon teal waters. If you’re up for some seaside time, drop by Pupnatska Luka (enjoyable and has a restaurant) or Bačva Beach (quieter and more durable to succeed in). The inland cities of Smokvica and Pupnat have wineries and cafes.
Finish your first day in Korčula Town. For a deal with, eat at LoLe Tapas Bar — the dishes listed below are essentially the most ingenious conventional Dalmatian meals you’ll discover! It’s highly regarded, so get there early.
Two full days in Korčula after this, consider me, will not be extreme. On your first day, discover Korčula Town in depth — I like to recommend taking a 90-minute historic strolling tour. You may take a motorbike tour to wineries, expertise a Moreška sword dance efficiency, or take the hop-on hop-off water taxi to the islands of Badija and Vrnik, adopted by the chilled out city of Lumbarda.
On Day 11, if you happen to’re prepared for one thing new, you may take a day journey to lovely Mljet. Mljet National Park is closest to Korčula Town, so I like to recommend doing a day journey from right here if you happen to’re going to do one. This one comes extremely really useful; you can even simply take the ferry to Pomena and discover independently.
Where to Stay in Korčula
Read extra: Complete Guide to Korčula, Croatia’s Coolest Island
![Farmland in Peljesac, with stone farmhouses in the background.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Peljesac-1024x659.jpg)
Day 12: Korčula to Pelješac to Dubrovnik
After testing of your lodging, take the automotive ferry from Korčula Town to Orebić on the mainland. From right here you’ll be on the Pelješac Peninsula, one of the vital underrated and exquisite drives in Croatia.
The drive from Orebić to Dubrovnik takes about two hours. You can energy by means of if you need — however in case you have time, I like to recommend exploring Pelješac a bit. Plaža Divna, northwest of Orebić, is certainly one of my favourite seashores in Croatia. The city of Ston is legendary for its oysters and one of many longest metropolis partitions on this planet. And tiny family-owned wineries are in all places, serving up that improbable Dingač wine.
Closer to Dubrovnik, the city of Trsteno is dwelling to Trsteno Arboretum, one of many prettiest gardens in Croatia that was featured on Game of Thrones.
Depending on once you get to Dubrovnik, I like to recommend taking the cable automotive up Mount Srd for sundown if you happen to can. I extremely suggest making a reservation at Panorama Restaurant upfront — the meals is surprisingly nice and the views are FABULOUS. Finish your night at a bar or cafe within the Old City.
Where to Stay in Dubrovnik
![Dubrovnik's orange roofs underneath a blue sky](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/DSC_1056-4.jpg)
Days 13 and 14: Dubrovnik
Welcome to the Pearl of the Adriatic! There is a lot to do in Dubrovnik and the encompassing space.
On your first day, my suggestion is to discover the Dubrovnik Old Town on foot, stroll the town partitions (ideally late afternoon or near sundown for cooler temperatures), have a drink on the sting of the cliffs at Buža Bar, and have dinner at Dubrovnik Eat with Locals (most individuals who do that find yourself saying it’s their favourite factor they did in Croatia!).
On your second day, be happy to do your factor — loosen up on a seaside or relax at Buža Bar. Go kayaking across the metropolis partitions. Take a Game of Thrones tour if you happen to’re a fan. Visit close by Lopud Island for just a few hours.
If you need extra time on the water, take a boat journey to Mljet or the Elafiti Islands. Visit the fascinating Red History Museum if you happen to love 60s and 70s type (and an ideal place to go to after a ship journey because it’s near the port!).
And don’t neglect my favourite Dubrovnik eating places: Proto for seafood, Azur for Asian-Adriatic fusion fare, and Kopun for capon (a distinct form of rooster).
Finish your journey with a flight out of Dubrovnik.
Read More: How to Spend Three Days in Dubrovnik
![Two giant, multi-tiered waterfalls overflowing into bright teal water, surrounded by forest.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/DSC_0762.jpg)
10-Day Croatia Itinerary
Don’t have fairly sufficient time to do the total 14-day Croatia itinerary? You can completely shave off just a few days to make the itinerary work. I typically suggest axing the locations that you just personally don’t really feel as strongly about.
Here’s the Croatia itinerary that I might personally suggest for 10 days:
As you may see, it’s fairly just like the unique itinerary, simply shaved a while off each Split and Hvar, which I believe are a few of the simpler cuts to make. Just be sure that to have a full afternoon in Split, and to get an early ferry to Hvar to maximise your time there.
If you’re intent on visiting extra of Hvar than Korčula, be happy to spend two nights in Hvar and one in Korčula. This is your journey! Do what’s best for you!
![A cable car ascending a mountain, lit up from behind in a pink sunset. You can see islands in the distance.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Dubrovnik-Cable-Car-1024x666.jpg)
7-Day Croatia Itinerary
Is it price visiting Croatia if you happen to solely have seven days? Absolutely! You simply should be practical about what you may accomplish in seven days.
And right here’s one massive distinction — for this one week Croatia itinerary, I believe it’s higher to do it with no automotive. This is principally ferry transportation and with no automotive, you’ll have extra choices. If you need to discover the islands of Hvar and Korčula in depth with no automotive, I like to recommend hiring a scooter.
Here’s the Croatia itinerary that I might personally suggest for 7 days:
Which island is healthier, Hvar or Korčula? Personally, I’m extra of a Korčula fan, however both would make an ideal selection. Hvar tends to have extra choices for boat journeys and excursions, whereas Korčula tends to have extra distinctive cultural issues to do.
Because you received’t have a automotive, you may take the passenger-only catamaran ferries somewhat than the automotive ferries, that are sooner and run to extra handy ports.
![The brightly colored town of Vodnjan: yellow, peach, and blood-red buildings on an open square, underneath a bright blue sky.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Vodnjan-Istria-1024x676.jpg)
Three Days in Istria Itinerary
My two-week itinerary for Croatia doesn’t embody any time in Istria, the Italian-flavored peninsula in northwest Croatia. I am keen on Istria, but it surely’s robust to suit it into the above two-week itinerary.
However, if you happen to have been set on visiting Istria, I’ve added on a three-day Istria itinerary, plus data on the right way to be part of Istria to Dalmatia! I like to recommend basing within the attractive city of Rovinj in your time right here.
![Rovinj at sunset: The whole sky is lit up orange and yellow. In the foreground are rows of small white boats docked up; in the back is the old city of Rovinj on the edge of the water, a big church tower sticking out of the top.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Rovinj-1024x681.jpg)
Day 1: Best of Rovinj
Rovinj is among the most spectacularly lovely locations in Croatia, and I believe this makes one of the best base for exploring Istria for just a few days. This seaside metropolis is organized with rings and rings of streets edged with pastel-colored buildings, main as much as a church and bell tower on a hill.
Just wandering the streets of Rovinj is an effective use of your day — however you can even discover Zlatni Rat Park and St. Katerina Island, hire a motorbike and discover, or loosen up on the encompassing seashores.
Don’t miss the technicolor sunsets right here! And cocktails at waterside bar Valentino are a should. If you need to splurge on a meal, the tasting menu at Cap Aureo will blow your thoughts. (I’m nonetheless fascinated by their squid cacio e pepe.)
Where to Stay in Rovinj
Read More: Ultimate Guide to Rovinj, Croatia’s Prettiest City
![The mountaintop town of Motovun, perched on top of a hill, underneath a blue and white sky.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Motovun-1024x663.jpg)
Day 2: Motovun and Grožnjan
Today is all about visiting two memorable hill cities in Istria: Motovun and Grožnjan. Motovun is the form of place that appears like a baby’s drawing of what a hill city ought to be. It’s perched on prime of the panorama, surveying all the things for miles.
It’s a little bit of a steep stroll as much as Motovun, however from the highest, you’ll have gorgeous views over the panorama. Have a glass of white wine and a few truffle fuži pasta at a restaurant on the town partitions. If you’re fortunate, there might be some paragliders! If you’re up for extra wine, don’t miss the quirky and inventive ROXANICH vineyard close to the bottom of the city.
And one of the best picture you may take of Motovun is definitely from a restaurant south of city known as Cafe Bar & Fast Food Vidik. You’ll be glad you stopped there.
Grožnjan is a tiny city near Motovun that’s well-known for its music college within the summers. As you stroll by means of the picturesque streets, you’ll hear musicians practising of their rooms above! This is only a beautiful place to benefit from the ambiance. There are some good cafes on the town.
If you’ve extra time, you may go to a coastal city in northwest Istria. Poreč has a Euphrasian Basilica that could be a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
![The ancient stone arena in Pula, Croatia, close to the sea. The photo is an aerial one and you see lots of terra cotta roofs and church steeples surrounding the arena.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Pula-1024x682.jpg)
Day 3: Bale, Vodnjan, Kamenjak, and Pula
It’s time for cool cities, seashores, and a metropolis! Head south to take a look at just a few small cities on the best way. Bale is a stunning small city that options Kamene Price, an adults-only cafe that doubles as a efficiency house. The close by city of Vodnjan is a should, stuffed with a few of the greatest avenue artwork in Croatia, some memorable structure, and precise mummies.
At the very southern tip of the Istrian peninsula, the purpose of the guts, you’ll discover Rt Kamenjak, a group of rocky seashores. This place is wild, free, and feels such as you’re on the finish of the world. Enjoy swimming within the sea and absorbing the solar right here, then head to Premantura for some ice cream.
Once you’re all beached out, head to the town of Pula for the night. Be positive to take a look at the Pula Arena, stroll the previous city, and I all the time drop into Jupiter Pizzeria for a black truffle pizza.
![Beachgoers sitting on a concrete slab on the edge of a bright blue ocean in Opatija, Croatia, with Hapsburg-style ornate pink and orange buildings in the background.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/Opatija-1024x650.jpg)
Getting from Istria to Dalmatia
Adding this itinerary to, say, the one week in Croatia itinerary above? You can completely do this to make a two-week Croatia journey that features each Istria and Dalmatia!
How do you have to go about that? Rovinj to Split is a five-hour drive, and you’ll squeeze in a fast go to to Zadar or Krka National Park and Šibenik en route. Or not. Totally your name.
Either manner, I like to recommend stopping within the city of Opatija for lunch or a espresso and cake. This city is mainly the Austrian Riviera (lol) so yow will discover plenty of elegant cafes with luxurious desserts! I’m a fan of Caffé Wagner on the Hotel Milenij. It’s a stunning setting with scrumptious desserts.
(While the town of Rijeka is on this route, I don’t suggest stopping there — whereas it has its gems, it’s not the prettiest place and doesn’t provide a whole lot of tourism worth for first-time Croatia guests.)
Read More: 15 Reasons to Travel to Istria, Croatia
![Morning at the Bay of Kotor, Montenegro, orange roofs and a bright blue sky](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/DSCF1528-1024x656.jpg)
Three Days in Montenegro Itinerary
Montenegro is a improbable little nation and works nicely as an add-on to a Croatia journey. However, most vacationers make the error of solely visiting for a day from Dubrovnik. That’s not practically sufficient. You ought to ideally go to Montenegro for 3 days or so!
Visiting Montenegro can both be finished by automotive or by public transportation (buses on this case), however know that you should have way more ease and suppleness with a automotive.
- Day 1: Drive from Dubrovnik to Kotor, discover Kotor
- Day 2: Rafting journey to Tara Canyon
- Day 3: Explore the shoreline, return to Dubrovnik
![Orange roofs of Kotor against a gray-green mountain backdrop at dawn.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/DSCF1486-1024x683.jpg)
Day 1: Dubrovnik to Kotor
Start your day driving from Dubrovnik to the Montenegrin border, and after crossing, head to the walled metropolis of Kotor. No automotive? Hop on one of many many buses from Dubrovnik to Kotor.
This city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also you’ll be captivated from the second you enter. The streets are really easy to get misplaced in — in one of the best ways — and the city is dwelling to plenty of fascinating retailers, cafes, and eating places.
But the setting on the Bay of Kotor is what makes this place so spectacular. From the tall inexperienced mountains to the graceful, glassy turquoise water, you’ll really feel such as you’re in paradise.
Spend your day exploring Kotor in depth, and be able to name it certainly one of your favourite cities.
Where to Stay in Kotor
![An aerial shot of a big yellow raft in the middle of a bright blue, clear river, surrounded by gray rocks and forest.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Tara-Canyon-Montenegro-Rafting-1-1024x682.jpg)
Day 2: Rafting Trip to Tara Canyon
I believe Montenegro is among the most lovely international locations on this planet, and also you positively perceive why once you get into the mountains! One of one of the best methods to get pleasure from that is to go rafting in Tara Canyon.
Know that the rapids are at their most pulsating in May and June. By July and August, the water ranges are decrease and the journey is way calmer — however the surroundings is so lovely that it’s nonetheless very a lot price it.
You can both drive by yourself — which is nice, because it permits you to cease for images — or e-book a rafting day journey from Kotor that features transport.
Rafting not your factor? You can drive as much as Durmitor National Park by yourself, or e-book a day journey to wild Northern Montenegro that features zip lining!
![A bright pink and yellow sunset over the island of Sveti Stefan, just off the coast of Montenegro.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/DSCF1410-1024x668.jpg)
Day 3: Explore Montenegro’s Coastal Towns
On your final morning, get up early and hike to St. John’s Fortress. I like to recommend doing it very first thing within the morning for warmth causes (and…if you happen to go early sufficient you received’t should pay), and on the final day to make a shocking ending to your time in Montenegro. It’s probably the greatest issues to do within the area.
This is a protracted hike up steps — plan for 90 minutes round-trip. But when you get to the highest, the view is unspeakably lovely. And because the solar rises, the colours go from gray-greens to vibrant blues!
After showering and testing of your resort, I like to recommend exploring the completely different seaside cities alongside the Montenegrin coast. Start by driving from Kotor to Sveti Stefan, then turning round and visiting Budva, passing Kotor, visiting Perast, and visiting Herceg Novi.
Sveti Stefan is a seaside city dwelling to a spectacular little island (at the moment a non-public resort presently underneath building); Budva is lots like a child Dubrovnik with plenty of towers; Perast is a cute little seaside city with church-topped islands you may go to, and Herceg Novi is a quiet and wonderful coastal city.
If you don’t have a automotive, I believe your only option is storing your baggage in Kotor, taking the bus to Sveti Stefan, taking the bus to Budva, taking the bus to Kotor and selecting up your bag, then taking your luggage to Perast and/or Herceg Novi in case you have time.
From there you may head again to the Croatian border and Dubrovnik. Alternatively, you may fly out of Tivat, which is near Kotor.
![A small coastal Croatian village on the island of Vis, a few kayaks in the calm water, white stone houses on shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Vis-Croatia-Travel-Insurance-1024x655.jpg)
Other Croatia Itinerary Options
But wait, there’s much more! Here are just a few different choices you may take into account:
Spend just a few days in Vis. I completely adore the island of Vis (rhymes with peace), but it surely’s the form of place you admire extra after you’ve already been to a number of islands. It’s a very good place for enjoyable and hiding away. That, and it’s the furthest island from the mainland and takes a bit longer to get to, so it doesn’t match as neatly right into a two-week itinerary.
If you’ve time, I like to recommend spending three days in Vis, basing in Vis city (Hotel San Giorgio is a good place and my favourite), and spending a day taking a ship journey across the island to the Blue Cave, Green Cave, Stiniva Bay, and extra.
Spend just a few days on Brač. Brač usually will get omitted of the Croatia island discourse — however I spent per week there and actually loved it! The city of Bol, on the south facet of the island, is a stunning place. You are near Zlatni Rat, Croatia’s well-known “Golden Horn” seaside, and the city of Pučišća is filled with gorgeous white stone buildings and a stonemasonry college you may go to.
Because Brač is the closest island to Split, it’s highly regarded with households. When I used to be there with my now-husband, we felt like the one folks there with out youngsters! Just know that this can be a very kid-oriented island, although they do have just a few wine bars and such.
Visit Bosnia and Herzegovina. While many vacationers e-book a day journey from Dubrovnik to Mostar and Kravice Falls in Bosnia, I truly suggest staying in a single day in Mostar if you happen to can. Like many day journey locations, Mostar is 1,000,000 instances higher at evening, when all of the vacationers go dwelling.
Mostar is a fully lovely city with a heartbreaking historical past. If you need to spend extra time in Bosnia, I like to recommend just a few days in Sarajevo, an interesting, enjoyable, and really reasonably priced metropolis.
![Old Town Split, with stone houses and bright green shutters.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Split-Old-Town-1024x669.jpg)
Best Time to Visit Croatia
So when is one of the best time to take this two-week Croatia street journey (or any Croatia journey, frankly)? I like to recommend early June if attainable; late September is one other good possibility. These instances of 12 months provide you with beautiful summer time climate in Dalmatia, whereas crowds are thinner and costs are a bit decrease.
In reality, I’d be joyful to swim in Dalmatia as late as early October, although it received’t be swimming climate additional north in Istria.
High season in Croatia is from mid-June by means of mid-September. You can completely plan this Croatia journey in the course of the peak summer time months of July and August, however if you happen to do this, I like to recommend reserving EVERYTHING as early as you may — lodging, excursions, ferries. Stuff tends to get booked out in a short time in July and August.
As for earlier spring and late fall, simply know that the islands specifically received’t have as a lot open. If you need to go to Croatia in spring or fall, I like to recommend an itinerary less-centered on Croatia’s islands and small seaside cities, although you may nonetheless get pleasure from Dubrovnik, Split, the Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Zagreb, and far of Istria.
Read More: Best Time to Visit Croatia
![Two small white wooden boats in a bright teal cove in Hvar, Croatia.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Boats-in-Hvar-Things-to-Do-in-Hvar-Croatia-1024x667.jpg)
How to Get to Croatia
At the time of writing, there is just one nonstop flight from the United States to Croatia — Newark to Dubrovnik on United in the course of the summer time months. If you need to get to Croatia from the US in any other case, you’ll have to alter someplace in Europe — maybe Amsterdam, Frankfurt, London, or Paris.
Croatia’s largest airports are within the three main cities: Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. Split is the busiest airport within the nation. Additionally, there are airports in Pula and Zadar that primarily serve funds airways in Europe.
I like to recommend trying to find flights to Croatia on Skyscanner, which is able to present you uncommon routes in addition to traditional ones.
It’s greatest to get round Croatia by automotive, because it’s an exquisite setting for driving with glorious roads. There are many automotive ferries that may get you to the islands, too. RentalCars.com provides you good charges for automotive leases in Croatia.
Otherwise, you may take public transportation. While there are just a few prepare strains in Croatia, bus transportation has rather more intensive connections. If you’re coming from elsewhere in Europe, I like to recommend looking at trains and buses that run to Croatia. You may even take an in a single day prepare from Prague to Split!
![A series of skinny cascading waterfalls falling from one lake into another at Plitvice.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Plitvice-Lakes-Waterfalls-1024x683.jpg)
Is Croatia Safe?
Croatia is a VERY secure nation to go to, almost certainly far safer than your hometown. Safety shouldn’t be a purpose that retains you from visiting this beautiful nation. The Balkan wars are prior to now; you don’t have anything to fret about at the moment.
The major stuff you observe as a safety-conscious traveler are the identical as anyplace else: analysis your locations upfront, keeping track of your belongings, not getting too drunk, and retaining in contact with somebody at dwelling who is aware of your itinerary.
I’ve traveled in Croatia as a solo traveler, together with strolling at evening in many various locations, and I discover Croatia to be a very simple and welcoming vacation spot, even for first-time solo vacationers.
Pretty a lot everybody in Croatia who works in tourism speaks glorious English — significantly better English than you’ll get in Italy, France, or Spain. Croatians know guests aren’t going to study their language, and act accordingly.
Read More: Solo Female Travel in Croatia — What’s it Like?
![A pair of turquoise water shoes sitting on a gray stoney beach.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/Water-Shoes-1024x682.jpg)
What to Pack for a Croatia Trip
Does Croatia require any particular gear in your journey? There are positively just a few objects that may make your Croatia journey a lot simpler.
Water sneakers — Do not skip these!! An absolute necessity when strolling on Croatia’s rock and pebble seashores! They will defend your ft from sharp rocks and allow you to keep upright.
Sports sandals — An simple, comfy strategy to get round, particularly for climbing rock slabs, and a greater different to flip-flops.
Speakeasy Travel Supply Scarf — This scarf has the right hidden pocket that no pickpocketer will ever anticipate! Keep your cash there!
Insulated water bottle — Stay hydrated with out including to the plastic difficulty.
Reef secure sunscreen — Reef secure sunscreen is significantly better for the setting as an entire, whether or not there are coral reefs or not.
Wide-brimmed hat — Provides extra safety from the solar, and also you’ll be glad you’ve one in your boat journeys.
Dry bag and/or waterproof telephone bag — Protect your electronics when out on the water and preserve them dry when swimming.
Portable secure — Keeps your valuables secure and solely must lock to one thing sturdy in your room.
![Kate standing in front of the bright blue-green water of the Adriatic. She faces away from the camera and wears a straw hat and sunglasses, a navy ruffled bikini top with tropical flowers on it, and harem pants that match the top.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/Kate-Vis-Island-Croatia-1024x754.jpg)
Croatia is ready for you!
I hope this Croatia itinerary helps you propose your dream journey to Croatia. As you may inform by this level, Croatia means lots to me, and I hope it finally ends up which means lots to you, too.
Go get pleasure from your journey to Croatia. Then come again and inform me all about it!
Planning a Trip to Croatia:
Croatian Islands and the Dalmatian Coast:
Istria and the North:
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What do you suggest for a two weeks in Croatia itinerary? Share away!