Looking for the best Croatia travel guide out there? Lucky you, you are about to read it! In this article, I am sharing with you the ultimate 2-week itinerary to make the most of your next trip!
If you are anything like me, you like to plan your itinerary before going on vacation and get to know your next destination… Lucky for you, I am about to share the best Croatia travel guide you can find!
After living and traveling around Croatia for 3 months back in 2022, I think I have seen most of what this fabulous country has to offer… And today, I’m happy to share it with you so you can have the best experience ever!
From the best time to visit Croatia, to the best places and other travel tips, you will know everything about how to plan a trip to Croatia and make the most of it by the end of this post! So keep reading and start planning—you are going to visit one of the most beautiful countries on the Adriatic coast very soon!
This blog post highlights the best Croatia travel guide and shares the ultimate 2-week itinerary!
BEST CROATIA TRAVEL GUIDE
CROATIA TRAVEL ADVICES
Before sharing my ultimate Croatia 2 weeks itinerary with you, here are a few things I think you should know! From the best time to visit Croatia to other essential travel tips, take notes to ensure you plan the best vacation possible!
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT CROATIA
Even though Croatia is a rather small country, with less than 4 million inhabitants, you will be surprised by how many hidden gems it has. Mountains, cities, beaches, and even islands… It doesn’t matter what kind of vacation you are looking for, you will have a blast in Croatia.
But before you go, here are some things you should know for your Croatia travel planning:
- In 2022, Croatia adopted the euro, which makes it much easier for European travelers and, I believe, for American travelers too.
- Croatia is not part of the Schengen Area, but if you are a European citizen or have a Schengen visa, you can visit as a tourist without further administrative procedures. In other cases, you might want to check the visa formalities depending on the country you are coming from.
- The language spoken there is Croatian, a rather hard language to learn, if you ask my opinion. But don’t worry, as tourism is expanding all over the country, everyone speaks English, and you shouldn’t have any problems being understood.
Just learn how to say hello (bok), please (molim), thank you (hvala), and goodbye (doviđenja) as a sign of respect for their culture, and you’re good to go. (If you want to learn some more, here is a quick list of the essentials words to learn.)
- Croatians are really welcoming people. Before moving to Croatia, I had read quite the opposite on the internet… But after three months there, I can assure you they are lovely and will do anything to make your experience in their country unforgettable.
- There are a lot of rocks on the beach and in the sea, so if you have sensitive feet, don’t forget to bring your water shoes.
BEST TIME TO VISIT CROATIA
As Croatia has grown more and more popular over the years, summer is packed with tourists! This can make your experience less enjoyable… But if you don’t have any other option, don’t worry—you are still going to have the time of your life. You’ll just need to be a bit more patient than if you were visiting at other times.
On the other hand, winter in Croatia is pretty cold… And if you are visiting Croatia for its fabulous beaches and crystal-clear waters, you might want to reconsider.
So where does that leave us, you might ask?
Well, like most European destinations, shoulder seasons are always the best time to travel. The weather is nice but not too hot or too cold, there are fewer tourists in the most popular spots, and prices are cheaper—whether it’s to get to your destination or while you are there. So if your personal life allows it, travel during shoulder seasons, which translates to the end of spring or the beginning of autumn.
HOW TO GET AROUND CROATIA
You are already thinking about your Croatia road trip itinerary but wonder how to get to the different places you have heard about? Don’t worry! Fortunately, there isn’t anything easier than traveling around Croatia.
You have two main options when it comes to traveling there:
- Rent a Car: Driving in Croatia is the same as driving in other European countries. The roads are good, and people are relatively good conductors. So if you are renting a car for your road trip in Croatia, you don’t have much to worry about.
- Travel by Bus: Public transportation in Croatia is both cheap and well-organized. Whether you take local buses to move around the cities or choose to travel with bigger companies, like Flixbus, you shouldn’t have any problem. I’ve personally traveled mostly by bus during my road trip in Croatia, and it couldn’t have been easier!
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CROATIAN FOOD AND DRINKS
Croatian food and drinks deserve an entire blog post, and after visiting Croatia, you will definitely agree with me… But here are a few things you absolutely have to try on your next vacation:
- Croatian Beer: From the strongest to the lightest, there is a Croatian beer for everyone visiting. And you know what? They are super cheap!
- Croatian Wine: You can find any kind of wine in Croatia, but if you are visiting during sunny days, try a glass of fresh white wine. It’s just the best!
- Black Risotto: I know… We’re not used to eating a lot of black food, but don’t worry, the color is due to the squid ink used to cook the rice. And the black risotto is the star of Croatian cuisine, so…
- Octopus Salad: Or any octopus dish, really… But the octopus salad after a long sunny day, paired with a glass of white wine, is just the best experience.
- Mussels Buzaru: As with the octopus dishes, you can’t really go wrong with any mussels dish while visiting Croatia. But this one has definitely been my favorite since day one.
SAFETY WHEN TRAVELING IN CROATIA
While planning your Croatia travel itinerary, one thing might cross your mind… Is Croatia safe for travelers? Well, be reassured, the short answer is yes, absolutely!
Croatia is ranked 14th on the Global Peace Index as of 2023, ahead of countries like France, Italy, and even Spain. In short, you shouldn’t have to worry while traveling in Croatia. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply some basic safety precautions as you would in any part of the world, even when walking around your hometown.
So now that you know everything there is to know about traveling to Croatia, let’s take a look at what you are really looking for in this travel guide… Your Croatia 2 weeks itinerary!
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2 WEEKS IN CROATIA TRAVEL ITINERARY
Fourteen days to discover an entire country is quite short… But thanks to the best Croatia travel guide out there, you will be able to make the most of your time.
Just stick to this Croatia travel itinerary and enjoy your next trip without having to worry about planning and organization! Here are the best places to visit in Croatia if you only have 2 weeks!
DAY 1/2: ZAGREB
To be completely honest with you, Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, has surprised me in more than one (positive) way! And if you are looking for the best places to visit in Croatia, you can’t possibly skip Zagreb!
From beautiful architecture to tons of restaurants, cafes, bars, and museums, nothing is missing in Zagreb for the perfect kick start of your vacation! You will have so many things to do and see that you will forget about the Croatian coast for a minute…
DAY 1: Arrival in Zagreb
Whether you are driving, flying, or even taking the bus, start your Croatia travel itinerary in the capital, Zagreb. There are a ton of things to do there!
On day 1, walk around the city to get an overview of what it has to offer. Between the Upper and Lower Towns, believe me, you will have a lot to see!
In the evening, there is no better place than the famous Tkalčićeva Street for a few drinks. Between cafés, restaurants, and bars, you will be able to soak in the Zagreb culture!
DAY 2: Explore more of the Croatian capital
Did you know that Zagreb is the European capital with the most museums per square meter? Well, if you didn’t, now you know! From history museums to architecture and even street art, you will find the kind of museum you are looking for in the Croatian capital. So make a list and enjoy a cultural morning.
In the afternoon, head to one of Zagreb’s famous parks to relax for a while if the weather allows it. You’ll need to be rested for your adventure on day 3.
DAY 3: PLITVICE LAKE NATIONAL PARK
If you are looking into your Croatia travel itinerary, I believe you’ve already heard of Plitvice National Park…
Honestly, it’s one of the best places to visit in Croatia, if not in the world! But how do you get there if you’re not driving? It’s really easy, just keep reading!
DAY 3: Visiting Plitvice Lake National Park
So, how do you get from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park?
You can either book a guided tour or go by your own means. Honestly, if you plan your day trip by yourself, it will be much cheaper. And there is nothing complicated about it!
Here are the only three things you need to think about:
- Book a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park on Flixbus for approximately $15 per person.
- Buy your entrance to the park online beforehand. Prices depend on the season you are visiting, so check the fees here.
- Bring with you water, food, and if you are visiting on a sunny summer day, don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats.
For your return bus ticket, book one from Plitvice Lakes National Park to Split. That’s the next destination of your Croatia travel itinerary!
DAY 4/5: SPLIT
If you’re currently planning your Croatia travel itinerary, I’m pretty sure you’ve heard of Split. It’s one of the most popular cities in the country, and for good reason… Not only is the Old Town one of the most beautiful I’ve ever seen, but the cultural and historic heritage of this town is incomparable.
History, architecture, beaches, nature, nightlife, shops… There’s something for everyone in Split! And that’s why it had to be added to the best Croatia travel guide.
The diversity of the city is what attracts other tourists. And no matter what your interests are, you’ll surely find fellow travelers who share the same.
If I had to visit Split all over again, here is what I would do!
DAY 4: Discovering Split’s Old town
If visiting Diocletian’s Palace wasn’t part of your plan, believe me, you are going to change your mind the minute you set foot in Split. There is no way you can resist this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mysterious beauty of it will blow your mind.
Trust my words—I’ve been lucky enough to spend a few months living there, and I was amazed every single day.
Just walk around the narrow streets and, literally, get lost in the Old Town. Bars, restaurants, cafés, shops, museums… Just wander around and enjoy the moment. If you want to see the Palace from above, climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius.
And if you are looking for the best sunset spot in Split to add to your Croatia travel itinerary, head to Mount Marjan. The views from up there will be worth every single step you had to climb to get there!
DAY 5: Exploring the surroundings
There are so many things to do near Split that you won’t be able to do them all in just one day, so you’ll have to make a choice!
Here are the most popular things to do near Split:
- Visit the Blue Cave
- Island Hopping
- Visit the Fortress of Klis
- Relax at Bačvice Beach
- Rafting on the Cetina River
And to end your last day in Split? Have dinner in the Diocletian’s Palace or by the beach, along with a glass of one of the famous Croatian beers or wines.
DAY 6: TROGIR
DAY 6: Heading to Trogir for a quieter time
After two days in the lively city of Split, it’s time to discover a quieter place to spend the day… And you know what? Trogir is the perfect spot to add to your Croatia travel itinerary for that!
Located just half an hour by bus from Split, Trogir is a picturesque town that will make you fall in love in a matter of minutes. Wander around the narrow, cobbled streets and window-shop for a few hours before stopping at a café terrace to enjoy a typical Croatian lunch or a quick coffee with a view over the sea.
When you’re done exploring this charming town hop on a bus or drive to Zadar! Or if you want to spend the night in Trogir to soak up more of its magic, leave on the morning of day 7…
Don’t worry, the journey is less than two hours, so it won’t take up too much of your time!
DAY 7/8: ZADAR
You might have heard of Zadar before, or not… I hadn’t before moving to Croatia, but now that I am aware of how beautiful this place is, I am trying to spread the word…
Zadar is mostly known for the Roman and Venetian ruins around its Old Town and the Sea Organ. But in reality, there is much more to it! That’s why two days there will barely be enough…
But Croatia has so much to offer that you will have to make some concessions while planning your Croatia travel itinerary… Here is how I suggest you split your two days in Zadar.
DAY 7: EXPLORING ZADAR AND THE OLD TOWN
The Old Town of Zadar is definitely to add to the list of the best places in Croatia… Roman and Venetian ruins and architecture, cobbled streets, art installations, there is so much to see there.
Here are 5 major things you can’t miss in Zadar:
- The Church of St. Donatus
- The Roman Forum
- The City Gates
- The Sea Organs
- The Sun Salutation
DAY 8: Islands hopping in Kornati Islands National Park
There are tons of things to do in the surroundings of Zadar, but as you only have one day left there before heading to your next destination, you have to make a choice… And to make your life easier, I’ve made this choice for you.
Don’t forget, this blog post is all about delivering to you the best Croatia travel guide… So I’ve selected the very best activity to do on your second day in Zadar!
And that couldn’t be anything else than going island hopping in Kornati Islands National Park!
But why, you might ask…
Crystal-clear waters, pristine nature, and rugged coastline… I think that’s enough to convince you! Day tours start from $50, but prices can vary depending on what’s included and the exact duration. Just do some research to find the perfect fit for you!
DAY 9: KRKA
Krka National Park, along with Plitvice National Park, are definitely two of the best places to visit in Croatia…
And that’s why you can’t write the best Croatia travel guide without mentioning the beautiful Krka National Park.
But don’t worry, it’s easy to get there on your own from Zadar. By not booking a guided tour, you’ll save a ton of money. Believe me!
DAY 9: VISITING KRKA NATIONAL PARK
Before you start planning your Croatia travel itinerary, there’s one thing you must realize… If you are visiting Krka and other tourist attractions during peak season, it will be crowded! No matter if you visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon…
If you absolutely hate crowds, I can only suggest visiting during the shoulder season or winter. That’s up to you! But even with the crowds, Krka is a natural wonder that you don’t want to miss… Trust me!
If you visit outside of peak season, the entrance will also be cheaper, which would be a double win for you… Just check all 2024 tariffs right here!
Now, how to get there from Zadar without booking a guided tour? Keep reading, it’s really easy!
You just have to take a bus from Zadar to Skradin, where the entrance to the park is. Here you will find everything about public transportation to plan your excursion to Krka. Share it with fellow travelers you might meet on your Croatia road trip itinerary.
On the night of day 9, you have various options. You can either sleep in Skradin, which is a lovely but small town, go back to Split if you prefer bigger cities, or head to Brela, the next destination on your Croatia travel itinerary.
DAY 10: BRELA BEACH
Day 10 will be a day for you to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the beauty of the Croatian coast. Traveling around Croatia for two weeks can be exhausting with so many things to see and do, so you deserve a quieter day to unwind before heading to your next adventures!
DAY 10: Chilling on brela Beach
Brela Beach is located just an hour and a half from Split. So if you chose to spend the previous night in Split, just head to the bus station and ask which bus will take you there. Croatians are lovely people and they will be more than happy to help you find the right bus. If you stayed in Skradin, you will first have to take a bus to Split, then a second one to Brela. But don’t worry, nothing complicated here.
But why should you head to Brela, you might ask? Crystal-clear waters, a rocky beach, and not too many tourists. I believe it’s the perfect combo!
I was amazed by the beauty of this place, and I’m sure you will be too!
Spend the day chilling there, get lunch in one of the numerous seafront restaurants, then watch the sunset with a late afternoon drink. As I’ve said before, Day 10 is meant to be a relaxing day for you… Just enjoy the moment!
If I were you, I’d sleep in Brela and head to the next destination of this Croatia travel itinerary the next morning. This way you will be fully rested to visit Dubrovnik and its surroundings. Believe me, the next few days are going to be busy!
DAY 11/12/13: DUBROVNIK AND BEACHES
Finally… The famous city of Dubrovnik! I’m sure you’ve heard of it before and can’t wait to visit. If you don’t really know anything about Dubrovnik, keep reading and you will quickly understand why it had to be part of the best Croatia travel guide!
Dubrovnik, also called the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its insane medieval architecture, city walls, and unique setting by the sea. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a Game of Thrones fan, or simply someone who loves beautiful scenery and new places, Dubrovnik will have something for you!
DAY 11: VISITING DUBROVNIK’S OLD TOWN
Dubrovnik’s Old Town will make you feel like you’ve gone back in time. Honestly, it might be the most beautiful and majestic old town in all of Croatia. Just wander around and get lost in its narrow, cobbled streets. Your eyes will thank you.
While walking around town, there are a few things you should try to spot or visit to make the most of your time there. Here is a quick list for you of all the things to do and see in Dubrovnik’s Old Town:
- Church of Saint Blaise
- Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary
- Franciscan Church and Monastery
- Walk the city walls
- Game of Thrones tours for the inconditionnal fans
If you still have time on your first day in Dubrovnik, head to the nearest beaches, Beach Šulić and Danče Beach, to end your day watching the sunset.
DAY 12: WALKING UP MOUNT SRD
If you enjoy walking, and more importantly, are able to walk uphill, head to Mount Srd for the best panoramic view of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. It’s breathtaking! If you’re visiting Dubrovnik during the summer, be sure to bring plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. There’s hardly any shade along the path, and European summers can be extremely hot! I personally visited Dubrovnik in June, and it was already too much!
If, for any reason, you can’t walk, don’t worry! You can still enjoy the panoramic view of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea by taking a cable car. A round-trip ticket costs around $25 for an adult, so keep that in mind when planning your budget!
DAY 13: VISITING LOKRUM ISLAND
Here we are, on the last full day of your Croatia travel itinerary…
Did you know that Croatia is also called “the land of a thousand islands”? So, what better way to end your Croatia road trip than by exploring an island? Lucky for you, you can do so from Dubrovnik for only $20 per person. That’s less than half the price of a normal island excursion in Croatia!
Getting to Lokrum Island from Dubrovnik couldn’t be easier… Just hop on the ferry, spend as much time as you want there, and take the ferry back in the afternoon! Simple as that!
As this night will be your last in Croatia, it’s up to you what to do.
If you’re flying from Zagreb on day 14, you might want to head back there early to make sure you don’t miss your flight. If you’re going back home from Dubrovnik, enjoy your last night there by having dinner and a few drinks in the old town. It all depends on your itinerary for going back home!
DAY 14: TIME TO GO HOME!
Even the best things have to come to an end, and here we are, at the conclusion of the best Croatia travel guide!
I hope you enjoy your time in Croatia as much as I did mine! And to ensure you’re fully prepared to explore this beautiful country, don’t forget to check out my other articles about Croatia…
There’s no such thing as being too prepared for your next trip!