Day 1: Arrival in Zagreb
Arrive in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, and transfer to your hotel. Begin exploring the city by walking through the historic Upper Town. Visit St. Mark’s Church, famous for its colorful tiled roof displaying the coats of arms of Croatia and Zagreb. Spend the evening exploring the lively streets of the city center and enjoying traditional Croatian cuisine.
Day 2: Explore Zagreb
Start the day at Dolac Market, Zagreb’s main market where locals shop for fresh produce and regional foods. Walk through the Lower Town to see elegant Austro-Hungarian architecture and visit the Zagreb Cathedral. Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of the city’s parks or cafés before enjoying dinner in the city center.
Day 3: Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most spectacular natural attractions. Explore the park’s wooden boardwalk trails that wind through forests and across turquoise lakes. Spend the day admiring the many waterfalls that cascade between the lakes. Stay overnight near the park.
Day 4: Plitvice Lakes Exploration
Spend more time exploring different sections of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Walk along scenic paths, take short boat rides across the lakes, and visit viewpoints overlooking the waterfalls. Enjoy the peaceful natural surroundings before continuing your journey south.
Day 5: Travel to Split
Travel to the coastal city of Split along Croatia’s scenic Adriatic coastline. Once in Split, explore Diocletian’s Palace, a massive Roman palace complex that forms the historic center of the city. Wander through narrow stone streets filled with cafés, shops, and historic buildings. In the evening, walk along the Riva waterfront promenade.
Day 6: Split and Marjan Hill
Spend the morning exploring more of Split’s historic center. Visit local markets and historic squares before heading to Marjan Hill for panoramic views of the city and coastline. Walk along scenic trails through pine forests and enjoy views of nearby islands.
Day 7: Visit Hvar Island
Take a ferry to Hvar Island, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. Explore the historic Hvar Town square and visit the hilltop fortress for stunning views of the harbor and surrounding islands. Spend the afternoon relaxing at one of the island’s beaches or taking a boat trip along the coastline.
Day 8: Travel to Dubrovnik
Travel south to Dubrovnik, one of the most famous cities on the Adriatic coast. Explore the Old Town with its limestone streets, historic buildings, and medieval architecture. Walk along the city walls for panoramic views of the sea and red-roofed buildings.
Day 9: Dubrovnik Highlights
Spend the day exploring Dubrovnik’s Old Town in more depth. Visit historic churches, palaces, and museums. Take the cable car to Mount Srđ for breathtaking views of the city and coastline. Spend the evening enjoying dinner at a restaurant overlooking the Adriatic Sea.
Day 10: Kotor Bay Day Trip or Departure
On your final day, take a scenic drive to Kotor Bay in neighboring Montenegro, known for its dramatic mountain scenery and medieval towns. Explore the historic town of Kotor and enjoy views of the beautiful bay. Return to Dubrovnik later in the day for your departure.