The Perfect Croatian Itinerary
Croatia is, hands down, one of the most idyllic countries I’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting. It truly offers the perfect blend of everything a traveller could want. Whether you're into paddleboarding, hiking, sailing, or just soaking up centuries of history and culture. It’s one of those places where it’s so easy to hop from one incredible spot to the next, spending a night or two in each. The Adriatic coastline alone is breathtaking, with endless opportunities to lounge on pristine beaches. Trust me, by the time you finish reading about my perfect Croatian itinerary, you'll be booking flights.
Starting in Zagreb: Quirky and Historic
Our journey began in Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital. If you’re a fan of quirky spots, you absolutely cannot miss the Museum of Broken Relationships. It's such a unique concept—a collection of items donated by people from all over the world, each accompanied by a story of heartache or lost love. Some of the stories were touching, others downright hilarious. I remember laughing at a particular entry where someone had donated an old toaster with a note that read, “This is the toaster I never got back after the breakup!”
Afterwards, we wandered around the Old Town and marvelled at the stunning Zagreb Cathedral. The architecture is something else. It has that gothic grandeur that makes you want to stand there for hours admiring every detail. We grabbed lunch on Tkalčićeva Street, a lively stretch full of trendy cafés and restaurants. The food? Simply divine. I don’t think I’ve ever had a better ćevapi (grilled minced meat) in my life. We rounded off the day with a relaxed stroll through Zrinjevac Park—a little oasis of calm in the bustling city.
Plitvice Lakes National Park: Nature at Its Finest
Next stop? Plitvice Lakes National Park. This place has to be seen to be believed. It's like something out of a fairytale, with 16 interconnected lakes and countless waterfalls spilling over limestone terraces. We spent the day hiking the scenic trails, but the highlight was the boat ride across the largest lake, Kozjak. Picture this: crystal-clear water, lush greenery all around, and the sound of rushing waterfalls. It was so serene. Just be prepared, there’s a lot of walking involved, but every step is worth it.
Zadar: Sounds of the Sea
After soaking up nature, we moved on to Zadar, a charming coastal city. The Sea Organ is an absolute must-see. It’s this genius piece of architecture that turns the sea’s waves into music through a series of underwater pipes. Sitting on those stone steps, listening to the sea play its own symphony, was one of the most peaceful experiences of my life. We stayed until sunset, watching the Sun Salutation—a solar-powered art installation that lights up as the sun goes down. Between that and the ancient Roman ruins scattered throughout the city, Zadar was an unexpected gem.
Split: Palaces and Panoramic Views
Our next destination was Split, and it didn’t disappoint. First on the list was Diocletian’s Palace, a massive Roman complex that’s essentially the beating heart of the city. The palace has been turned into a living museum, with cafés, shops, and homes built right into the ancient stonework. We also hiked up Marjan Hill—a bit of a climb, but the panoramic view at the top was totally worth it. You can see the entire city, the sea, and the nearby islands.
Speaking of islands, we spent two days island-hopping from Split. One day, we visited Hvar and the next, Brač. Both islands have their own unique charm, but the real standout was swimming in the Blue Lagoon. The water was so clear and refreshing, I honestly think it was the best swim of my life. We even stopped by some small village markets to grab fresh local produce. If you love a relaxed vibe and authentic food, you can’t miss the islands.
Dubrovnik: A Grand Finale
Finally, we made our way to Dubrovnik. If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones, you’ll recognise the Old Town—King’s Landing, anyone? We walked the city walls, which offered incredible views of the Adriatic Sea and the red-roofed houses below. I felt like I’d stepped into a medieval fantasy world. We also visited Stradun, Dubrovnik’s main street, and explored Fort Lovrijenac before taking the cable car up the mountain for even more jaw-dropping views.
Of course, we couldn’t leave Dubrovnik without spending a couple of days on its beaches. It was the perfect way to unwind after all the sightseeing. Croatia really has a way of balancing history, culture, and relaxation in the most perfect way.
Why Croatia?
If you're looking for the perfect Croatian itinerary, this is it. Croatia offers something for everyone, no matter what kind of traveller you are. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just in it for the beaches, you won’t be disappointed. Trust me—once you've seen the beauty of Croatia for yourself, you'll never want to leave.
Pack your bags, book those flights, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Croatia is calling!
Credit & Notes: Cross-post in connection with my other brand - The Big Surprise Travel (AKA Book It For Me)