Curator’s statement
I’m absolutely thrilled to share a destination that’s truly special to me. Croatia, with its incredible mix of ancient history, stunning natural beauty, and that dazzling Adriatic Sea, just has a way of capturing your heart. Every corner you turn offers a new discovery, from those sun-drenched islands to the majestic waterfalls. This particular itinerary actually holds a very dear place in my memories, as it’s built around the unforgettable two weeks I spent here on my babymoon—it was pure magic!
The Fora Difference
Book with Juliana to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Juliana to book your trip.
Day 1: Island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast
Your Croatian adventure begins in the stunning city of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its magnificent fortified walls and ancient charm.
Day 1: Arrival & Old Town immersion
Arrive in Dubrovnik. Check into your accommodation and immediately immerse yourself in the magic of the Old Town. Walk the iconic city walls for unparalleled views, then find a cozy spot for a sunset dinner overlooking the Adriatic.
Day 2: Montenegro day trip to Kotor & Perast
Embark on an exciting day trip to neighboring Montenegro. Explore the stunning Bay of Kotor, visiting the ancient walled city of Kotor with its winding streets and impressive fortress. Continue to the picturesque town of Perast, known for its charming Baroque architecture and the iconic islets of Our Lady of the Rocks and St. George. It’s a fantastic way to see another country’s beauty.
Day 3: Island escape or beach bliss
Take a leisurely day to either relax on one of Dubrovnik's beautiful beaches or catch a short ferry to the tranquil island of Lokrum, perfect for swimming and exploring its botanical gardens. Alternatively, consider a boat trip to the Elaphiti Islands for more secluded coves.
Day 4: Farewell Dubrovnik & ferry to Korčula
Enjoy a final Dubrovnik breakfast. Mid-morning, head to the port and board your ferry to the enchanting island of Korčula. The journey itself offers beautiful coastal vistas.
Day 2: Korčula—Marco Polo's island gem
Korčula, with its charming medieval town and lush vineyards, offers a more relaxed pace.
Day 5: Korčula Town & wine tasting
Arrive in Korčula and settle in. Spend the afternoon exploring the compact yet captivating Old Town, often claimed as the birthplace of Marco Polo (don't miss the alleged Marco Polo House!). In the late afternoon, indulge in a local wine tasting, sampling the island's renowned Pošip wine.
Day 6: Island exploration or beach day
Rent a scooter or bike to discover Korčula's hidden beaches and olive groves. Consider a boat trip to the nearby small islands or simply unwind on a sun-drenched beach like Pupnatska Luka.
Day 7: Ferry to Hvar & Hvar town vibe
Enjoy a relaxed morning on Korčula before catching your ferry to Hvar. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation in Hvar Town. Spend the afternoon exploring the lively town square, ascending to the Španjola Fortress for incredible panoramic views, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Day 3: Hvar—the island of lavender & glamour
Hvar is known for its beautiful lavender fields, historical sites, and buzzing nightlife.
Day 8: Pakleni Islands & beach hopping
This is the day for island hopping! Rent a small boat or join a tour to explore the stunning Pakleni Islands, a cluster of islets just off Hvar. Discover secluded coves, enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters, and perhaps have lunch at a seaside restaurant.
Day 9: Hvar exploration & sunset views
Spend the day exploring more of Hvar Island—perhaps visit the charming towns of Stari Grad or Jelsa, or relax on one of Hvar’s beautiful beaches. In the evening, find a perfect spot for a sunset cocktail with a view—perhaps back at the fortress or one of the chic beach clubs.
Day 4: Split—Roman history meets modern life
Week 2: Inland adventures & natural wonders
Take a morning ferry from Hvar to Split, a city where ancient Roman history seamlessly blends with modern Dalmatian life.
Day 10: Diocletian’s Palace & Riva stroll
Arrive in Split and drop off your bags. Dedicate the day to exploring the magnificent Diocletian Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that forms the heart of the city. Wander its labyrinthine alleys, discover hidden courtyards, and then enjoy a leisurely stroll along the bustling Riva promenade.
Day 11: Krka National Park day trip
Pick up your rental car in Split (if you haven’t already). Embark on a day trip to Krka National Park. Hike along its scenic trails and enjoy the incredible opportunity to swim at the base of the Skradinski Buk waterfalls—a truly refreshing experience! Afterward, drive north towards Zadar.
Day 5: Zadar, Plitvice Lakes National Park & Zagreb
Day 12: Sea Organ & Greeting to the Sun
Arrive in Zadar after your Krka visit. Check into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic center, visiting the Roman Forum, and then making your way to the famous Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. Experience the unique sound of the sea playing music and witness a spectacular sunset. Zadar offers a fascinating blend of Roman ruins and modern art installations.
Day 13: Plitvice Lakes National Park Majesty
Your final leg takes you to Croatia’s most famous natural wonder and its vibrant capital. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Zadar, then drive inland towards Plitvice Lakes National Park (approximately two hours). Dedicate most of your day to exploring this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk the wooden boardwalks, marvel at the cascading waterfalls, and take boat rides across the pristine lakes. It’s like stepping into a fairytale. In the late afternoon, continue your drive to Zagreb (approximately 2–3 hours).
Day 14: Zagreb—Croatia’s Vibrant Capital
Spend your final full day exploring Zagreb. Wander through the Upper Town (Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (Donji Grad), visit the impressive Zagreb Cathedral, and see the colorful tiled roof of St. Mark’s Church. Enjoy the city’s cafes, museums, and vibrant atmosphere for a memorable farewell dinner.
Need to know
As the curator of this Croatian adventure, I’m absolutely thrilled to share a destination that’s truly special to me. Here are some of my favorite things to do in Croatia, offering a glimpse into why this country is so captivating:
Walk the Walls of Dubrovnik: There’s simply no better way to grasp the sheer majesty of Dubrovnik’s Old Town than by walking its ancient city walls. The views of the terracotta rooftops against the shimmering Adriatic are absolutely breathtaking, especially at sunset.
Explore Diocletian’s Palace in Split: Stepping into Diocletian’s Palace feels like stepping back in time. It’s not just a ruin—it’s a living, breathing part of the city, with cafes, shops, and apartments nestled within its ancient walls. It's fascinating to wander and get lost in its labyrinthine alleys.
Swim under the waterfalls of Krka National Park: While Plitvice is spectacular, the opportunity to actually swim in the turquoise waters at the base of the Skradinski Buk waterfalls in Krka is an incredibly refreshing and exhilarating experience. It’s pure natural bliss.
Go island hopping in the Pakleni Islands (from Hvar): Renting a small boat (or joining a tour) to explore the Pakleni Islands just off Hvar is a must-do. Each little cove and hidden beach offers a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and escaping the crowds.
Listen to the Sea Organ in Zadar: This unique architectural sound art installation harnesses the power of the waves to create hauntingly beautiful music. Sitting by the sea, listening to its natural symphony, especially as the sun sets over the Adriatic, is a truly magical and meditative experience.
Get lost in Plitvice Lakes National Park: While you can’t swim here, the sheer beauty of Plitvice’s interconnected lakes and cascading waterfalls is unparalleled. Wooden boardwalks lead you through an almost surreal landscape of emerald green and sapphire blue waters—it’s like walking through a fairytale.
Sip wine in Korčula: Korčula Island has a rich winemaking tradition, particularly known for its crisp white Pošip wine. Visiting a local vineyard for a tasting is a delightful way to experience the island’s culture and enjoy its beautiful scenery.
Enjoy a sunset cocktail at a Hvar Fortress Bar: Hvar town itself is buzzing, but ascending to the Španjola Fortress offers not just historical insight but also incredible panoramic views. Finding a spot at one of the bars up there for a sunset cocktail is the perfect way to cap off a day on the island.
Additional Travel Tips for Your Croatian Adventure:
Transportation: For the first week, relying on ferries for island hopping is convenient and part of the experience. For the second week’s inland journey, renting a car from Split will give you the flexibility to explore at your own pace, especially for Krka and Plitvice.
Accommodation: Croatia is popular! Book your accommodations well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (June–August).
Packing essentials: Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, swimwear, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreen), and a light jacket for cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera for all those incredible views!
Currency: The official currency of Croatia is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in most places.
Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few basic Croatian phrases (like “Dobar dan” - Good day, “Hvala” - Thank you) will always be appreciated!
Flexibility: This itinerary is a suggestion. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and pace. If you find a place you particularly love, don’t hesitate to spend an extra day!
Travel Advisor
Juliana Heeren
Get in touch with Juliana
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Juliana within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Croatia page.