Croatia Essentials: 7-Day Highlights from Zagreb to Dubrovnik
7 days
Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik & beyond
This carefully designed 7-day Croatia itinerary takes you from the elegant streets of Zagreb to the ancient stone walls of Dubrovnik, with breathtaking national park and idyllic islands in between.
Days 1-3
Day 1: Zagreb
Arrive in Zagreb, Croatia’s lively capital. Take a guided walking tour through Upper Town (Gornji Grad) with its cobblestone streets, St. Mark’s Church, and panoramic viewpoints. Wander Lower Town (Donji Grad) for art nouveau architecture, lively squares, and boutique shops. Sample local delicacies at Dolac Market, sip coffee at a traditional café, or enjoy an evening concert at the Opera House or National Theatre.
Day 2: National Park Plitvice Lakes
Travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and Croatia’s oldest National Park. Stroll along on a guided walk along wooden boardwalks over 16 cascading lakes connected by waterfalls. Ride across the largest lake Kozjak, on the panoramic boat, towards the biggest waterfall in Croatia, Big Waterfall.
Evening arrival in the Split area; overnight stay.
Day 3: Split & Trogir
Explore Split with a guided tour of Diocletian’s Palace (UNESCO), including cellars, peristyle, and the cathedral.
Stroll along the Riva promenade, visit local shops, and enjoy seaside cafés.
Afternoon excursion to Trogir, a medieval UNESCO-listed town. Explore cobblestone streets, historic squares, and the St. Lawrence Cathedral.
Return to Split for overnight stay.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS
Plitvice Lakes – a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site where crystal-clear turquoise waters cascade through lush forests, forming stunning waterfalls and serene lakes. Experience nature’s masterpiece on a scenic walk that promises unforgettable views and peaceful moments in Croatia’s most iconic national park.
Split – a vibrant coastal city where ancient history meets lively Mediterranean charm. Wander through the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, relax along the bustling Riva promenade, and soak in the rich culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning sea views that make Split unforgettable.
Dubrovnik – the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” encircled by ancient stone walls, the city’s red-roofed streets, historic forts, and crystal-clear sea views create an unforgettable atmosphere. Explore charming squares, scenic viewpoints, and the unique spirit of this Adriatic treasure.
Days: 4-7
Day 4: Hvar Island Day Trip
Full-day excursion to Hvar Island via ferry or boat.
Explore Hvar Town: visit Fortica fortress for panoramic views, stroll through the old town squares.
Relax at secluded beaches and enjoy swimming in crystal-clear waters.
Optional wine tasting and local cuisine experiences.
Return to Split for overnight stay.
Day 5: Split to Dubrovnik (Ston, Coastal exploration)
Scenic drive along the Dalmatian coast to Dubrovnik.
Stops along the way for photography, seaside villages, or short walks. Visit to a small coastal town Ston for a lunch at local restaurant, trying oysters and local couisine.
Evening arrival in Dubrovnik: enjoy dinner with views of the Adriatic.
Day 6: Dubrovnik Old Town & Citty Walls
Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik Old Town: visit Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, Franciscan Monastery, and other historic landmarks.
Walk along the city walls for breathtaking views of the red-tiled roofs and sea.
Optional activities: cable car ride to Mount Srđ, or boat trip to Lokrum Island.
Evening at leisure to enjoy local restaurants or sunset views.
Day 7: Dubrovnik: Leisure & Departure
Morning at leisure: explore markets, museums, or beaches in Dubrovnik.
Optional last-minute excursions or swimming.
Transfer to Dubrovnik airport or onward destination.
EXPERIENCES HIGHLIGHTS
Food Tour – Taste of Zagreb – Discover Zagreb through its flavors on a guided food walk featuring traditional štrukli, locally produced cheeses, cured meats, and artisanal treats from the city’s markets—a perfect introduction to Croatia’s culinary heritage in the heart of the capital.
Hvar Winery Tour – Explore Hvar’s rich wine tradition with visits to local family-run wineries. Enjoy guided tastings of signature island varietals, such as Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša, paired with authentic Dalmatian bites in a charming vineyard setting.
Oyster Tasting Tour – Sail through the calm waters of Mali Ston Bay and taste fresh oysters straight from the sea at a family-run farm. Paired with local wine and stories from your host, it’s an authentic and unforgettable Dalmatian seafood experience.
Testimonials
Every detail of the day felt thoughtful and well-organized, and it was great to support Ivica and his local business. I highly recommend this private and accessible tour to anyone looking to explore Plitvice Lakes in a relaxed and personal way.
WHERE YOU WILL STAY
Esplanade Zagreb Hotel – Opened in 1925 to serve passengers of the legendary Orient Express, it remains an architectural gem with a graceful Art Deco design and an old-Hollywood glamour feel.
Hotel Ambasador – Hotel Ambasador sits on Split’s West Coast, offering modern elegance with stunning views of the harbour, Marjan Hill, and nearby islands.
Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – Perched on the Adriatic coast just steps from Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Hotel Excelsior is a landmark of timeless elegance and modern luxury.