Croatia isn’t a place you rush through. It’s a country where every stone tells a story, where mornings start with strong coffee and evenings end in the glow of Adriatic sunsets. In 10 days, you can trace a route from leafy inland streets to hidden island coves, passing waterfalls, ancient palaces, and red-roofed towns along the way.
This itinerary is designed for curious travelers who want to see the best of Croatia—without feeling rushed. It blends natural wonders, local culture, and slow moments by the sea.
Day 1-2: City Buzz & Waterfall Magic – Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes
Start your journey in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, where Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy parks, and buzzing cafés set the tone. Explore the historic Upper Town, ride the funicular, and dive into the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships. If you arrive early, consider a half-day trip to Samobor: a small baroque town with a sweet tooth (don’t leave without trying kremšnita).
Leaving the city behind, you head south—toward something wild and elemental. The road to Plitvice Lakes National Park winds past green hills and roadside stalls, but it’s the sound of water that will stay with you. At Plitvice, water doesn’t just flow—it performs. It tumbles, twists, and slides under footbridges through forested canyons. Sixteen turquoise lakes connect through nearly a hundred waterfalls, forming one of Europe’s most stunning natural landscapes.
Follow Route C or H, which give you a loop through both the upper and lower lakes, plus a peaceful boat ride across Lake Kozjak. It’s an easy to moderate walk, but do bring good shoes—those wooden walkways can be slick.
If you're short on time, consider visiting Plitvice as a day trip from Zagreb, or continue directly to Zadar for the night instead of staying near Plitvice.
Where to stay: Near Ban Jelačić Square or tucked into the Old Town for easy walking access.
Day 3: Sounds, Sunsets & Stone – Zadar
Explore Zadar, a coastal town that combines Roman ruins, medieval churches, and contemporary art installations. Its most famous feature—the Sea Organ—plays music powered by the waves, creating a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack to your visit. The city also boasts the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light display that glows at night. Walk through the historic center, relax at a café along the promenade, and don’t miss the breathtaking sunset views Alfred Hitchcock once called the best in the world.
Where to stay: A waterfront hotel or stylish apartment in the Old Town.
Days 4–5: Roman Roots & Coastal Cool – Split
Leave Zadar behind and make your way toward Split, but not without a refreshing detour at Krka National Park. You can walk among lush trails, marvel at cascading waterfalls like Skradinski Buk, and enjoy the unique chance to get up close to the water—something you can’t do at Plitvice.
Prefer a cultural stop instead? Šibenik is just as worthwhile. This charming coastal town is home to the UNESCO-listed St. James Cathedral, cobbled alleyways, and two impressive fortresses with sweeping views of the Adriatic. It’s a great place to grab lunch and soak in some authentic Croatian atmosphere before arriving in Split.
Once in Split, you’ll feel an immediate shift in energy. While Zagreb is stately and Zadar is artistic, Split is alive and unfiltered. At its heart is Diocletian’s Palace, a living Roman ruin that’s now home to cafés, shops, homes, and secret courtyards. The Riva Promenade is perfect for a sunset stroll, and the local seafood is some of the best along the Dalmatian Coast.
Travel Tip: On Day 5, make time for a quick trip to Trogir, just a 30-minute drive away. This tiny walled town is packed with medieval charm and makes a lovely half-day excursion.
Where to stay: Choose a boutique stay inside the palace for historical vibes or a modern apartment near the marina for easy access to the islands.
Day 6–7: Island Chic & Hidden Bays – Hvar and the Pakleni Islands
Croatia’s islands are where time seems to stretch out—and this is your chance to slow down.
Catch a ferry from Split to the sun-soaked island of Hvar, one of Croatia’s most stylish and sunniest destinations. With its historic stone streets, elegant harbor, and vibrant nightlife, Hvar Town offers the perfect mix of relaxation and glamour. Spend your first day exploring the town—climb up to the Spanish Fortress for sweeping views of the Adriatic, wander through lavender-scented lanes, and enjoy sunset drinks along the waterfront.
On Day 7, head out for a boat trip to explore the nearby islands. The Pakleni Islands are the closest and most popular, known for their hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and chill beach bars. But if you're feeling adventurous, consider venturing farther to Brač, home to the iconic Zlatni Rat beach, or Korčula, often called a mini-Dubrovnik for its walled old town and deep historical roots. Whether you stick close or venture farther, this day is all about island-hopping, swimming, and soaking in the laid-back Dalmatian lifestyle.
Travel Tip: For a quieter experience, head to Jerolim or Palmizana—less crowded but just as beautiful.
Where to stay: A boutique hotel in Hvar Town or a serene villa in the hills for a peaceful island retreat.
Days 8–10: Dubrovnik – The Adriatic Finale
There’s something cinematic about Dubrovnik. Maybe it’s the towering stone walls or the way the rooftops gleam in the sun. Maybe it’s the dramatic sea cliffs or the way the light hits the limestone streets in late afternoon. Whatever it is, it stays with you.
Once you arrive in Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic, spend your first day soaking in the beauty of the Old Town. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Old Town is a maze of narrow streets, historic buildings, and impressive landmarks. Start with a walk along the City Walls, which offer breathtaking views of the Adriatic and Dubrovnik’s red-tiled roofs. Explore must-see sights like the Sponza Palace, Rector’s Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery, home to one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. Dubrovnik is an experience in itself and you can find out more about how to explore this enigmatic city in this Dubrovnik travel guide.
On Day 9, start your morning with a visit to the Dubrovnik Cathedral and, if you’re in the mood for nature, head to the Trsteno Arboretum just outside the city. Afterward, unwind at Banje Beach for a swim or beachside coffee with views of the Old Town. In the afternoon, explore more historical sights like Lovrijenac Fortress or dive into Dubrovnik’s past at the War Photo Limited Museum. End the day with a cable car ride up Mount Srđ at sunset, offering unforgettable panoramic views of the city and coastline.
For your final full day, choose between two unforgettable excursions, both easily done from Dubrovnik.
Option one: take a boat trip to the nearby Elaphite Islands—a peaceful archipelago where charming villages, pine forests, and quiet beaches await. The most popular islands—Koločep, Lopud, and Šipan—offer a relaxed escape with scenic walks, swimming spots, and seaside lunch options.
Or, if you're up for a cross-border adventure, head south on a day trip to Montenegro. In just a couple of hours, you can find yourself cruising through the dramatic Bay of Kotor, driving the famous 20 hairpin bend road, visiting the stunning island of Sveti Stefan (viewable from a distance unless you're staying at the hotel), or soaking up the energy in Budva, one of Montenegro’s liveliest towns.
Both options offer completely different experiences—one all about island serenity, the other packed with dramatic landscapes and Balkan flair.
Travel Tip: Montenegro is in a different country, so don’t forget your passport and check visa requirements if needed.
Where to stay: Inside the Old Town (if you don’t mind stairs) or just outside the walls in Ploče or Lapad for sea views and quieter nights.
If you're still deciding where to go, how to get around, or what time of year to visit, check out our Complete Croatia Travel Planning Guide first. It covers everything you need to know before mapping out your route—from entry requirements to cost breakdowns and seasonal tips.
To see a day wise breakdown of the 10 day Croatia journey, check out this itinerary.
