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Reflecting on our incredible 10-day Croatia adventure this past summer, I’m filled with nostalgia and a longing to return. Croatia boasts one of the most breathtaking coastlines I’ve ever encountered. The laid-back atmosphere was utterly captivating, and it’s easy to understand why so many people are drawn to this Mediterranean paradise, especially during the balmy summer months.
Panoramic view of the stunning Croatian coastline, highlighting the turquoise waters and picturesque landscape, ideal for a memorable Croatia travel itinerary.
Our days were a blissful rhythm of soaking up the sun, diving into the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, and savoring the delectable local cuisine and wines. Croatia offers a diverse range of destinations, and this itinerary merely scratches the surface of what’s available. We focused on the must-see attractions for our first visit, the places that had long been on our travel bucket list. On our next trip, we’re definitely planning to explore beyond the main tourist trail and discover even more of Croatia’s hidden gems.
The Ultimate Croatia Travel Itinerary: 10 Days of Coastal Charm
Essential Tips for Your Croatia Trip
Planning a trip to Croatia involves several important considerations. To help you prepare, I’ve compiled a detailed blog post with my essential tips for traveling to Croatia. Make sure to check it out for valuable insights before you go!
10-Day Croatia Itinerary: Dubrovnik, Hvar, and Split
This itinerary focuses on three of Croatia’s most iconic destinations: Dubrovnik, Hvar Island, and Split. It’s designed to provide a balanced experience, combining historical exploration, island relaxation, and vibrant city life.
Day 1: Arrival in Dubrovnik – The Pearl of the Adriatic
Arrival days are usually a flurry of activity. My priority is to settle into our accommodation, freshen up, and then take a leisurely walk to get acquainted with the town. If you arrive early in Dubrovnik, I highly recommend heading to the city walls for a spectacular sunset view. The panoramic vistas from the walls as the sun dips below the horizon are simply unforgettable.
Read: The Ultimate Dubrovnik Guide
Stay: Consider an Airbnb for a local experience or indulge in luxury at Hotel Excelsior.
Charming street scene in Dubrovnik's Old Town, showcasing the historic architecture and inviting atmosphere, a highlight of any Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 2: Discovering Dubrovnik’s Old Town and History
Dubrovnik is a wonderfully walkable city, best explored in the early morning before the tourist crowds swell. Spend a few hours immersing yourself in the magical ambiance of the Old Town. Some of our favorite experiences included riding the cable car up Mount Srđ for breathtaking panoramic views, delving into the poignant exhibits at the War Photo Limited Museum, and relaxing on the local beaches, soaking up the Mediterranean sun. Walking the ancient city walls is a must-do, offering unparalleled perspectives of the terracotta rooftops and the azure Adriatic Sea.
Read: A Four Night Itinerary to Dubrovnik
View from Dubrovnik city walls overlooking the Adriatic Sea and Lokrum Island, capturing the stunning coastal scenery included in a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 3: Day Trip to Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Taking advantage of Croatia’s proximity to neighboring countries, we embarked on a guided day trip to Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Opting for a guided tour was a brilliant choice, as everything was meticulously organized – all we needed were our passports. It’s a full-day excursion, but incredibly rewarding, offering a glimpse into a different culture and history, and the journey itself is filled with scenic landscapes. Mostar’s iconic Stari Most bridge and Ottoman-era architecture are truly captivating.
Read: Visiting Mostar for the Day from Dubrovnik
Iconic Stari Most bridge in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, a worthwhile day trip destination from Dubrovnik within a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 4: Relaxation Day in Dubrovnik
After a few action-packed days, we dedicated a full day to simply unwind in Dubrovnik. We enjoyed a leisurely morning, followed by a blissful afternoon at our favorite local beach, Danče Beach. It was the perfect opportunity to recharge and fully embrace the relaxed Croatian lifestyle.
Serene Danče Beach in Dubrovnik, featuring crystal clear waters and rocky shoreline, ideal for relaxation during a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 5: Ferry to Hvar Island – Island Paradise Beckons
During the peak season, a direct ferry service connects Dubrovnik to Hvar Island, a wonderfully convenient and incredibly scenic way to travel. Upon arriving in Hvar Town, we had a delightful lunch at Fig Cafe before strolling to Hvar Beach. The ferry journey itself is a highlight, gliding through the stunning Adriatic waters and past picturesque islands.
Read: The Ultimate Guide to Hvar, Croatia
Stay: Indulge in luxury at Hotel Adriana.
Ferry arriving at the harbor of Hvar Town, Hvar Island, showcasing the vibrant waterfront and charming architecture, a key stop in a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 6: Exploring the Wonders of Hvar Island
Hvar Island is brimming with attractions. You could easily spend your days lounging on beautiful beaches, rent scooters to explore the island’s diverse landscapes, or discover secluded bays for ultimate relaxation. Consider visiting the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views of Hvar Town and the Pakleni Islands, or explore the lavender fields and vineyards in the island’s interior.
Picturesque beach on Hvar Island with turquoise waters and boats, inviting exploration and relaxation as part of a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 7: Another Day in Hvar Paradise
We opted for another day of relaxation on Hvar as we were both feeling a bit under the weather. Honestly, we could have easily spent an entire week on this stunning island. There is so much to see and experience, and the island’s beauty is simply captivating. The relaxed pace of life and stunning scenery make it an ideal place to unwind.
Secluded bay with crystal-clear water on Hvar Island, offering tranquility and natural beauty for a relaxing Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 8: Hvar to Split – Diocletian’s City Awaits
A quick ferry ride takes you from the island paradise of Hvar to Split, one of Croatia’s most dynamic and bustling cities. Upon arrival, we dedicated the day to wandering through Split’s enchanting streets and browsing the local boutiques. The city’s vibrant atmosphere and historical charm are immediately engaging.
Read: How to Spend 48 Hours in Split
Stay: Choose an Airbnb for a local feel or experience luxury at Hotel Vestibul.
Lively Riva promenade in Split, lined with cafes and palm trees, leading to the historic Diocletian's Palace, a must-see in a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 9: Exploring Split and Diocletian’s Palace
On our final full day, we made it a point to visit Diocletian’s Palace at sunrise to avoid the crowds, and it was absolutely worth the early wake-up call. We had initially planned a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, but unfortunately, the weather had other ideas. While we missed Plitvice this time, a day trip to this natural wonder is highly recommended if your itinerary allows. It’s definitely on our list for our next Croatia adventure!
Sunrise view of Diocletian's Palace in Split, showcasing the ancient Roman architecture and peaceful atmosphere, a highlight of a Croatia travel itinerary.
Day 10: Departure Day
Depart from Split or continue your journey to explore more of Croatia or neighboring countries. Split Airport is well-connected, making onward travel convenient.
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Panoramic view of the stunning Croatian coastline, highlighting the turquoise waters and picturesque landscape, ideal for a memorable Croatia travel itinerary.
PS — Planning Your Trip? My Go-To Booking Resources:
These are the websites I consistently use to book my own travels. Using the links below is a fantastic way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you. If you need help organizing your itinerary, download my free travel itinerary template here.
1. Find Affordable Flights
I rely on Skyscanner to locate the best flight deals. It searches across numerous airlines and websites to ensure you don’t miss out on any potential routes or savings.
2. Accommodation Booking
For hotels and guesthouses, Booking.com is my preferred platform. They offer an extensive inventory and consistently provide competitive rates.
3. Car Rentals
Self-driving is often the ideal way to explore destinations at your own pace. I use Discover Cars for our rental cars, always opting for full coverage insurance and reputable companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
4. Tours and Activities
To find the best tours and experiences, I use Viator or Get Your Guide. I check both as their offerings can vary depending on the destination.
5. Airport Lounge Access
Priority Pass provides access to over 1,400 VIP lounges worldwide. The Priority Pass app is my first check during airport layovers, making air travel significantly more comfortable.
6. Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is essential for peace of mind. It offers protection against unforeseen circumstances like illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.
My recommended providers for comprehensive coverage and competitive rates are:
Xx,Jessica
