The Best of Croatia in 5 Days
Curated By
Grace Hilty
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Boutique Travel
Adventure Travel
Family Travel
Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel
Beaches
Honeymoons
Couples Travel
Active Travel
Croatia
Outdoors
Local Culture
Sightseeing
Costal
Bucket List-Worthy
Curator’s statement
Croatia combines the best of summer in Europe: buzzy cocktail bars butting up against crashing waves, luxury hotels dropped in the middle of a historic square and waterfall-studded national parks worth the trek. Surprisingly, Croatia remains a relatively affordable European vacation, perfect for a honeymoon or summer getaway.
The Fora Difference
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Killer perks
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
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Day 1: Zagreb: Croatia’s Capital City
On day 1, get settled and explore Croatia’s capital. Check into the Sheraton Zagreb, which is centrally located near the action. On foot, head to the the quirky Museum of Broken Relationships, then explore St Mark’s Church, the Cathedral of Zagreb, Upper Town and Jelacic Square.
Day 2: Plitvice National Park
Take the bus from Zagreb to Plitvice (2h15m, buscroatia.com,) and explore the jaw-dropping crystal clear lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park. You can spend the night outside the park in a cute B&B, like Krizmanic Family B&B ,or get back on the bus to head down to Split after you’re done exploring Plitvice (4h south to Split.)
Day 3: Split & Surrounding Day Trips
Take the bus from Plitvice to Split (4h, buscroatia.com). Check into Vestibul Palace in the middle of the historic square. Explore Diocletian’s Palace, Mestrovic Gallery, Bacvice Beach and Beach Bene. If you want to add on a day trip, you can explore Krka National Park, Sibenik, Mostar in Bosnia or the ancient walled city of Trogir.
Day 4: Ferry to Hvar
Take the 1 hour ferry from Split to stunning Hvar. Stay at Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort or Palace Elisabeth, and spend the day lounging at one of the beach clubs: Pokonji dol Beach, Carpe Diem, Hula Hula or Falko Beach Bar. Grab dinner at Fig Hvar in the town square.
Day 5: Dubrovnik
Take the ferry from Hvar to Dubrovnik. Stay at Villa Dubrovnik, outside of the city walls. You’ll be grateful for the distance from the crowds and the impeccable views from your room or suite. In the early evening, take the shuttle into the walled city and walk the old city walls before grabbing a sundown cocktail at Buza Bar. Make sure to get a reservation at Banje Beach Restaurant.
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspo? Check out Grace's guides 3 Days in Big Sur, California and A Weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Travel Advisor
Grace Hilty
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Croatia.