We’ve made no secret of our love for Croatia. From Slavonia to the Dalmatian Coast, there hasn’t been a place we visited in Croatia that we didn’t fall in love with.
With so many incredible destinations, creating an easy-flowing, all-encompassing route through the country can be a challenge. However, we’re here to help make your Croatia Itinerary trip planning easy.
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We carefully considered all of the top places to see and devised an absolutely perfect 2 Week Croatia Itinerary!
Planning a Trip to Croatia for 2 Weeks
Croatia might be a small country, but there is so much to see and do. One of the first steps in planning the best Croatia Itinerary is determining length of stay and number of destinations.
Ideally, you will have at least two weeks in Croatia. However, there is no right or wrong way to plan a Croatia trip.
Before we jump into our day-by-day Croatia Two Week Itinerary, we want to cover a few details.
About Our Croatia Itinerary
This 2 Week Croatia Itinerary is not for the slow traveler, but for the ambitious tourist who wants to see as much as possible in a short amount of time.
It covers the length of the country from north to south, starting in Zagreb and ending in Dubrovnik. The route travels mostly along the coast, with eight stops in total, and can actually be done in either direction.
Our 2 Week Croatia Itinerary can be used exactly as written or just a guideline. To help, we have also included tips on where to stay, how much a trip to Croatia costs and about traveling through the country.
Those planning a first time trip should also read our advice on preparing for a Vacation to Croatia. Additionally, travelers visiting other countries in Europe can use our tips for planning European Vacations.
When planning a 14 Day Croatia Itinerary, it is essential to stay on top of the details. We recommend using our Travel Planning Printables to ensure nothing slips through the cracks!
Save, Pin or Bookmark this Croatia Travel Guide to plan your amazing vacation!
Best Places To Visit in Croatia in 2 Weeks
Croatia is a contrasting country – and so much more than one iconic city. We feature an array of destinations, sights and a few hidden gems, too.
With all the things to do in Croatia, we could easily recommend spending a month exploring the landscapes and soaking it all in.
However, we understand the realities of limited time off and have devised an ambitious 2-Week Croatia Itinerary.
2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary Outline
Our 14 days in Croatia Itinerary includes overnight stays in eight of the best cities in the country.
Zagreb (2 nights) – Rovinj (3 nights) – Zadar (2 nights) – Sibenik (1 night) – Split (2 nights) – Hvar (1 night) – Korcula (1 night) – Dubrovnik (2 nights)
Start your vacation in Zagreb, the capital that moves in rhythm with the city’s trams. Get a sense of how modern Zagreb evolved from two medieval towns. Then explore Plitvice National Park on a day trip.
Now continue to the Istrian Peninsula. Discover romantic Rovinj, prettily perched on the sea. Spend a day exploring the hill towns of the Istrian interior. Then see the historic sights in Porec and Pula, home to incredible Roman ruins.
Next up is the Dalmatian Coast. Travel the scenic shoreline south from Istria to Zadar. After spending a day exploring the Zadar Old City and seaside, continue south to Sibenik.
From Sibenik, travel to Skradin and into Krka National Park, where thundering waterfalls cascade into jade pools.
Now it’s on to Split. The city combines history and nature, along with an urban vibe. Wander the lanes of Diocletian’s Palace. Hike to an amazing viewpoint. Soak in the sun on an Adriatic beach.
Next, it’s time to sail away for a few days of Croatian island hopping to Hvar and Korcula. Spend one night in Hvar Town. Enjoy the fantastic restaurants, buzzing bars, and stunning coastline.
Catch the ferry the following morning to Korcula. A beautiful island with heaps of charm, excellent wine and more astounding vistas.
The final two days are spent discovering Dubrovnik. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with amazing architecture and incredible sights.
Croatia Travel Map
This map of Croatia highlights the route from Zagreb to Dubrovnik and the destinations we include on our itinerary. Use this Google Map for an online version of our Croatia Map below.
Day-by-Day Croatia Trip Planner
Now that you have an idea of what to expect on your Croatia 14 Day Itinerary, we are filling in all the details. Use the following outline to plan your perfect trip!
DAY 1: Zagreb
Arrive in Zagreb and waste no time getting acquainted with the often-overlooked Croatian capital city.
Tour the sights in the historic districts of Gradec and Kaptol. Use our Self-Guided Zagreb Walk or join a local guide on an organized outing.
If time permits, consider a stroll around one of Zagreb’s Best Parks, like the Green Horseshoe or the suburban oasis of Maksimir.
For drinks and dinner, dine along the café-lined Tkalciceva street. After your meal, walk up to Opatovina or ‘Beer Street’ for a pint. Keep an eye out for our favorite craft brewery in Croatia, Nova Runda!
Where To Stay in Zagreb
The city of Zagreb is well-connected by a network of trams. If you’re utilizing public transportation, stay near the Zagreb Bus Station. That way you don’t have to lug your bags very far!
There are a handful of hotels and numerous Airbnb’s within walking distance. If there’s availability, we recommend Hotel 9.
Top Tip: From ZAG airport, there is an inexpensive and direct bus to the Zagreb Bus Station.
Read our complete guide of Things To Do in Zagreb!
DAY 2: Zagreb Day Trip
Start the second day of your Croatia trip itinerary with a coffee on Ban Jelacic Square. Then visit the historic Dolac market bustling with morning shoppers.
We feel Plitvice Lakes is a must, and it’s an easy Zagreb Day Trip! Embark on a full day excursion to swoon over turquoise lakes connected by stunning waterfalls.
Once back in Zagreb, pick a place for dinner along the popular pedestrian areas of Trg Petra Preradovića and Bogoviceva. We love Submarine Burger and Batak Grill!
DAY 3: Rovinj
Travel to Rovinj on the Istrian Peninsula. Upon arrival, immediately immerse yourself in the enchanting Old Town.
Wander the cobblestone lanes that lead to St. Euphemia Church and climb the bell tower for grand views over the Adriatic Sea. If the weather is warm, cool off with a swim in the refreshing turquoise water.
Next, find a spot to watch a legendary Rovinj Sunset, whether at a seaside café, along the rocks or on one of the piers.
For dinner, enjoy Rovinj’s strong Italian influence and indulge in a pizza complemented with a glass of Istrian Wine.
Where To Stay in Rovinj, Croatia
We believe the Old Town is the ideal place to stay in Rovinj, and there’s an array of boutique hotels and apartments to choose from.
Hotel Casa Garzotto is our recommendation for it’s historic charm and prime location!
Find all the best Rovinj Things To Do!
DAY 4: Tour Istria
Today you’ll go on one of our favorite day trips in Croatia! Spend the day touring the incredibly picturesque Istrian Peninsula.
Start at Karlic Tartufi for a savory breakfast and an expedition in truffle hunting. Next, sip locally produced brandy at Aura Distillery in Buzet. Then, stop in the quaint hilltop town of Motovun for lunch-with-a-view.
Now, travel back to the coast and the historic town of Porec, where you will gander at the opulent interior of the Euphrasian Basilica.
Be back in Rovinj for dinner and sample the catch of the day at one of the top-rated restaurants along the water.
Pro Tip: This fantastic day discovering Istria is not possible by public transportation. You’ll need to book a rental car for the day, join an Istria Tour or hire a private guide/driver.
Get all the specifics in our One-Day Tour of Istria.
DAY 5: Rovinj Relaxation
The plan for today is to soak up the charm and idyllic location of Rovinj. You can head to Golden Cape Forest Park to find a secluded cove or rent a bicycle and discover the vineyard-covered countryside.
In the afternoon, sample locally produced wine at two Rovinj Wineries. Be back at the harbor in time to set sail for dolphin spotting on an evening sunset cruise.
Day 5 Alternative: Pula Day Trip or Boat Excursion
Those who prefer to always be on the move can opt for another side trip from Rovinj – either on land or by sea.
Day Trip to Pula
Hop on a public bus and ride 40 minutes south to Pula, a historic harbor town. The largest city on the Istrian Peninsula, Pula is packed with impressive Roman ruins that rival those in Italy.
Spend the day gazing in awe over the preserved 1st century Pula Amphitheater and Temple of Augustus. Learn more on a guided tour or use our list of Things To Do in Pula and them discover on your own!
Boat Trips from Rovinj
Cruises navigate the seas around the Rovinj Archipelago for a day of sun, fun, swimming and snorkeling! The most popular boat tour is to Lim Fjord.
DAY 6: Zadar
Today on your Croatia vacation itinerary, transfer to Zadar by taking the scenic route along the coast. The city boasts remains of the ancient past, but retains a youthful feel with a large student population.
Get an immediate introduction with our Self-Guided Zadar Walking Tour that circles past the best sights. If you prefer, let a guide lead the way through the streets while explaining the history of Zadar.
For dinner, choose from one of the restaurants that line the atmospheric lanes of Zadar. Malo Misto or Restoran Bruschetta are our top picks.
End the evening with a taste of Maraschino, the liqueur produced by the local Maraska Company.
Top Tip: There are two routes from Pula to Zadar. Highway (fast and boring) or scenic coast (slow but stunning). If going by bus, inquire which route it takes. If on the coastal road, get a seat on the right side for prime views!
Where To Stay in Zadar
For just 2 nights in Zadar, the Art Hotel Kalelarga is our top choice. It’s located in the heart of the Old Town and gets rave reviews!
Pro Tip: The Zadar Old Town City Center is about a 25-minute walk from the bus station, so keep that in mind if traveling Croatia by bus.
DAY 7: Zadar Day Trip
The location of Zadar is ideal for exploration in all directions – including out to sea! On Day 7, take one of the highly-rated boat trips from Zadar.
Set sail from the mainland to Ugljan by ferry and wander on your own or take a sailboat trip to the Kornati Archipelago. Be back in time to watch sunset from the steps of the famous Zadar Sea Organ!
Find more top tours in our guide to Day Trips from Zadar.
DAY 8: Krka National Park
Get an early start and transfer to Sibenik via Skradin to see the Krka Waterfalls. Those using public transportation can stow their luggage in Skradin while touring Krka.
The Croatian city of Skradin was once the seat of power in the region, but now the small town serves as the most popular entrance to Krka National Park. Buy tickets from the official park office and take the first available ferry.
Spend the day walking around and over the beautiful waterfalls at Krka, allowing enough time to simply gaze at the largest, Skradinski Buk.
Once back in Skradin, stroll around town and make the short climb up the hill for 360-degree views before traveling on to Sibenik.
Top Tip: Use our guide of Things To Do in Skradin for more ideas if you’re staying longer!
Explore Sibenik
Once settled in, set out on foot to see the top Sibenik attractions, like the St. James Cathedral and the St. Michael Fortress. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful waterfront meal at one of the many sea-facing restaurants.
Where To Stay in Sibenik
We feel the best place to stay is right by the water on the edge of Sibenik Old Town (which also happens to be very close to the bus station). The Bellevue Superior City Hotel offers modern rooms with sea views.
Day 8 Alternative: Krka Day Trip from Zadar
Don’t want to move for just one night? We hear you! Choose instead to stay in Zadar and take a tour Krka that includes Sibenik. Get the details.
Read our list for more Things To Do in Sibenik!
DAY 9: Split
The bustling capital of Dalmatia has a lively waterfront and an ancient past. Get started by Walking Split’s Old Town on your own or with a guide.
Discover the remains of Diocletian’s Palace and explore the narrow lanes that grew out and around the ruler’s residence.
After your dose of history, return to modern times and walk the Split Riva. Linger at one of the many cafes and soak in the buzzing atmosphere of Croatian coffee culture.
For dinner, enjoy a delectable meal at Villa Spiza, a quaint and traditional establishment (no reservations/cash only). Other excellent Restaurants in Split are Mazzgoon, Apetit or Articok.
Where To Stay in Split
Oh my, we have stayed in so many different accommodations in Split. From the Old Town to the Manus and Varos Neighborhoods. Our preferred area, however, is Bacvice.
Located east of the ferry port and main bus station, it’s also near Split’s premier beach. There are luxury properties (Hotel Park and Briig Boutique) and tons of Airbnb’s to choose from.
Use our guide of the Top Things To Do in Split!
DAY 10: Discover Split
Begin the day with a walk through the Varos enclave up to Marjan Hill and take in the scenic viewpoint.
If you are feeling motivated, continue to the viewing platform at the weather station for 360-degree views across Dalmatia!
By early afternoon, set out on a half-day trip from Split. Travel north (via bus #37 or tour) to Trogir. The UNESCO Heritage town encompasses an idyllic island, which is reached by a short footbridge.
Alternatively, take bus #60 to Omis and make the rewarding hike up to Starigrad Castle, which provides jaw-dropping views across the region.
Return to Split by the early evening, perhaps having a cocktail at one of the cafes along the marina. For a unique experience stop by ‘Little Beer Shop’ at Matejuska. Grab a few Croatian Craft Beers and drink with locals and other visitors on the jetty.
If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, have dinner at Fetivi or eat a traditional meal of Peka at Konoba Kod Joze (just be sure to order it a day in advance).
Day 10 Alternative: Split Beaches or Boat Trip
Two additional options are a full day of beach relaxation or an adrenaline-filled speed boat trip to numerous Croatian islands.
A Day at the Beach
After hiking Marjan Hill in the morning, find one of the Best Beaches in Split. Here you can spend the afternoon swimming in the sea and lounging. It’s one of top Split Budget Activities!
Split Boat Trip
Get whisked away on a full day boat trip from Split to some of the best Dalmatian islands. A speedboat trip to the Blue Cave (along with several islands) is the most popular.
However, there are many more choices, which we share in our Best Split Day Trips article!
DAY 11: Hvar Town
It’s time for some island hopping – an essential activity to every Croatia Itinerary! On Day 11, catch an early morning catamaran to posh Hvar Town on Hvar Island.
Get settled into your accommodation (or leave your luggage if it’s too early to check in) and take advantage of a full day on Hvar.
First explore the Sights of Hvar Old Town and climb to the hilltop Spanjola Fortress. Then, take a coastline walk to hidden bays for a swim or rent a boat and explore the nearby Pakleni Islands.
In the early evening, try locally produced craft beer from Vunetovo, then watch sunset from laid-back Falko Bar. For dinner, go traditional with a meal at Konoba Menego or fresh seafood at Junior.
Where To Stay in Hvar Town
In Hvar, we like to stay right in the heart of town – and there are numerous hotels and apartments to choose from.
That said, on our first trip to Hvar, we treated ourselves to a fabulous Croatia beach vacation at the Amfora Grand Beach Resort.
Day 11 Alternative: Hvar Day Trip from Split
If you would rather not move accommodations again, stay in Split 1 more night. Hvar Town is easily accessible via catamaran for a fun excursion from Split.
A second option is to visit Stari Grad. The gorgeous Old Town and UNESCO listed Stari Grad Plain offer a completely different experience from Hvar Town.
Find all of our top Things To Do in Hvar Town!
DAY 12: Korcula
Now set sail for the old-world town of Korcula. Claiming to be the birthplace of Marco Polo, the walled city is a fascinating place to visit.
Wander the neatly planned cobblestone lanes to the top Korcula sights: Town Gate, St. Mark’s Church and the House of Marco Polo.
For more lovely views, walk west along the shoreline or south for a short hike. For sunset cocktails, go to Massimo, a unique bar in a turret!
Have dinner al fresco at one of the top-rated Korcula restaurants along the eastern seawall. Or, venture inland to the village of Zrnovo, known for its unique pasta dish: Zrnovski Makaruni.
We recommend eating at Bistro La Tache, where a friendly family makes traditional meals and brew their own beer on-site!
Where To Stay in Korcula
Although small, there are plenty of options in Korcula Old Town for accommodation. For our trips, we book the Korcula Heritage Hotel, which is steps from the ferry port and most rooms have amazing views of the sea!
Read more about What To Do in Korcula!
DAY 13: Dubrovnik
The last two days of your Croatia 14-Day Itinerary will be spent in the country’s iconic city of Dubrovnik.
Get an early start and take the first catamaran from Korcula to the “Pearl of the Adriatic” and discover the most popular of all Croatia destinations.
Get an overview (literally) with an elevated walk around the Dubrovnik City Walls. It’s a must-do activity in Dubrovnik – so buy your ticket in advance!
Back on ground level, see more sights on our Self-Guided Walking Tour. Then, take in the scene along the Stradun pedestrian street with a gelato in hand!
In the early evening, track down a ‘Buza’, pop-up bars clinging to the exterior of the Dubrovnik walls directly above the sea. Secure your seat for a spectacular sunset!
Where To Stay in Dubrovnik
The Dubrovnik Old Town is a magical place to stay. Just be aware that you will have a lot of company in the height of the summer.
A top choice for Old Town Dubrovnik accommodations is The Pucic Palace, which is both elegant and historic. That said, there are less expensive alternatives.
To the east of the walled city, numerous holiday apartments are perched above the coastline. We prefer staying in this area for easy access to the best Dubrovnik Beaches.
Northwest of the Old Town are Gruz and Lapad. We liked staying in Gruz for its proximity to the bus station and ferry port, while our time in Lapad was an excellent escape to nature and from the crowds.
Read our complete guide of What To Do in Dubrovnik!
DAY 14: Time To Say Goodbye to Croatia
On your last day, experience more Dubrovnik highlights. Go to the top of Mount Srd for an outstanding vista. Find other fabulous spots with our guide to the best Dubrovnik Viewpoints!
In the afternoon, take a boat tour to Mljet National Park and other nearby islands. For Game of Thrones fans – join a tour of recognizable film locations. If you still have time before your flight departs, take one last swim in the Adriatic!
Top Tips For Your Croatia Itinerary
Our 2 Week Croatia Itinerary is what we believe is the perfect Zagreb to Dubrovnik trip. However, planning a wonderful vacation isn’t just about where to go – there are other factors to consider.
Best Time To Visit Croatia
When you visit Croatia can have a big impact on your trip. It will likely effect the sights you visit, total cost and overall experience.
Croatia typically sets a new record for number of tourists each summer – and it is the best time for island hopping and soaking in the sunshine.
If you will be in Croatia in July or August, expect it to be very hot and very crowded. There will be lines for everything along with elevated prices. We completely avoid Croatia in the summer.
Our favorite time to visit Croatia is fall, when crowds, prices and temperatures have backed off. Yet it is still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and even a brisk swim!
We have spent a few winters in Croatia, which are a stark contrast to summertime. Most coastal towns – even Dubrovnik – are practically ghost towns. Bigger cities, like Split and Zagreb, are still enjoyable and full of locals.
Spending Christmas in Croatia is actually wonderful! The award-winning Advent in Zagreb is actually one of our favorite Christmas Markets in Europe!
Aside from Easter, springtime crowds are generally light. There does tend to be some construction and restaurant remodeling, but the shoulder-season prices in Croatia make up for that.
2 Weeks in Croatia Cost
Even though visiting Croatia continues to get more expensive, we believe it’s still a good value. Creating a budget for 2 weeks in Croatia will depend on your style of travel and the time of your visit.
If traveling outside of peak season, couples could spend about $100 per day. That includes accommodations, food and sightseeing. In the summer, just about any decent place to stay will cost twice that (or more).
Of course, prices rise every year. Walking the walls in Dubrovnik now runs nearly $40 per person. Similarly, enjoying a meal in Old Town Split can cost the same as other European cities.
We recommend listing all of your must-do’s and finding current entrance fees to ensure they will fit into your Croatia budget.
Budget Travel in Croatia
There are simple ways to stretch your budget in Croatia, but it takes a bit more effort these days.
First and foremost, take your trip outside of the summer season. Furthermore, book in advance! Additionally, be open to exploring beyond the main tourist areas. You’ll not only find lower prices, but a more authentic experience!
Also, create your own Croatia day trips rather than paying for tours. Maybe skip the top ticketed attractions in favor of free things to do. For meals, pick up local Croatian products for picnic lunches rather than dining out.
Just looking for 7 Days in Croatia?
Croatian Food, Wine and Beer
Croatian cuisine ranges from massive meat platters to seafood specialties to fabulous fast food options.
There is a strong Italian influence throughout Croatia (most noticeable in Istria) – so both pizzas and pastas are phenomenal.
Fresh seafood is a regional specialty (especially in Dalmatia). We highly recommend trying fresh-caught fish from the Adriatic during your trip. Black risotto with cuttlefish (squid) is another Croatian must-try dish.
Inexpensive Croatian fast foods are cevapi (minced meat sausages served in bread with red pepper sauce (ajvar), onions and cream), burek (a hearty meat- or cheese-filled pastry) and pljeskavica (an overflowing meat sandwich similar to a burger).
There is a long history of wine production in Croatia dating back 2,500 years to Ancient Greek settlers. There’s 2 wine regions; Continental (mostly whites, like Grasevina) and Coastal (mostly reds, like Plavac Mali).
Local craft beer bars are popping up in cities and towns across Croatia. In Split, look for Mandrill and Leopold’s.
Dubrovnik Beer Co. near the Gruz Port and Glam Cafe in the Dubrovnik Old City are good spots, too. Zivjeli! (That’s Cheers in Croatian.)
How To Get to Croatia
For this Croatia 2-Week Itinerary, we recommend flying into Zagreb and out of Dubrovnik (or vice-versa).
Where To Fly into Croatia
Zagreb, Split and Dubrovnik can all be reached by plane year-round. There are even direct flights to Croatia from New York (Newark) to Dubrovnik and Split in the summer!
When we purchase plane tickets, we start our search for the best deals on Skyscanner.
Getting Around Croatia
The best way to get around Croatia depends on how you prefer to travel, the amount of time you have and where you are coming from.
Using our guide as a Croatia driving itinerary is an excellent way to experience the country. Renting a car allows the most freedom to explore, but there are also some downsides.
- Most historic city centers are pedestrian only.
- Finding parking in Croatian cities is a bit like the Hunger Games.
- Read our hacks for finding the Cheapest Car Rental Rates.
Otherwise, all of the mainland destinations can be reached via bus. The Dalmatian Islands are well connected via Car Ferries and Catamarans operated by either Jadrolinija or Krilo.
On our many trips to Croatia, we have always traveled by public transportation. Generally speaking, bus and ferry tickets are affordable, but there’s still a few things to be aware of.
- On longer routes, buses will make short stops at gas stations for driver/ bathroom breaks.
- You can eat on board buses in Croatia, so bring food and drinks with you.
- We use Bus Croatia to find schedules, but always confirm at the station. We have also found it best to immediately buy tickets for your onward destination upon arrival.
What To Pack for Croatia
Ok, it’s time to get out your backpack or suitcase. So, grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Croatia!
Durable Shoes
We cover some ground in our Croatia Itinerary, so you will want comfortable shoes. Some of the Old Town streets are uneven or slick.
Make sure to bring shoes with good soles, leaving the heels at home! I like to wear lightweight and versatile trainers and Kris prefers trail shoes.
Pro Tip: Read our detailed breakdown on the Best Travel Shoes for any trip!
Travel Camera
Croatia is stunningly beautiful – capture these lovely landscapes with a real camera. We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens. This DSLR takes excellent photos and is a fantastic budget camera, as the kit comes with tons of accessories!
Appropriate Weather Gear
The sun in Croatia is intense – especially in the summer. Be sure to pack sunscreen (it’s super expensive in Croatia), lightweight clothes, sunglasses and a wide brimmed travel hat.
Outside of summertime, there is always a chance of precipitation. Be prepared with a travel umbrella and a rain jacket.
Versatile Day Pack & Water Bottle
Speaking of accessories, you will want a great day bag to organize all of your essential everyday travel items. Plus, the tap water in Croatia is safe to drink, so bring a collapsible bottle, too!
Croatia Travel Insurance
Trip insurance may provide compensation for flight delays and lost luggage. It could also come in handy for injuries or illnesses abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage, check rates with World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Croatia! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want additional advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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