The Perfect 2 Week Croatia Itinerary

Croatia is a country that packs a punch! Rich history, incredible landscapes, Mediterranean charm, and an Adriatic coastline that rivals the best in the world.

This 2-week itinerary for Croatia is your ultimate guide to exploring Croatia by car, starting in the cultural capital of Zagreb and ending in the storybook city of Dubrovnik.

The Perfect 2 Week Croatia Itinerary

Croatia is a country that packs a punch! Rich history, incredible landscapes, Mediterranean charm, and an Adriatic coastline that rivals the best in the world.

This 2-week itinerary for Croatia is your ultimate guide to exploring Croatia by car, starting in the cultural capital of Zagreb and ending in the storybook city of Dubrovnik.

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

Hi, we’re Rach & Marty!

We’ve visited every country in the world and want to help you get the most out of your travels!

Whether you need an expertly planned itinerary, some experienced hints and tips, or just craving a delicious food adventure, we’ve got you covered!

We may earn affiliate commissions from websites we link to, at no cost to you. Click here for details.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Dubrovnik and islands

Along the way, you’ll explore a UNESCO-listed national park, a Roman amphitheatre, seaside towns, and island paradises like Hvar and Korčula.

Spending 2 weeks in Croatia is easy, the country has so much to offer. 

Many Europeans would choose to come to Croatia for their summer holiday, meaning they stay in one place with plenty of sun on the beach or the pool and do an excursion to a nearby town or an island.

On the other hand, most overseas visitors (and of course some Europeans as well) want to see more of the country. 

I’ve previously written a post about the 15 best places to visit in Croatia, but this article is a complete travel itinerary you can follow.

This blog will guide you step by step on how to spend your 14 days in Croatia efficiently, what you need to know before you go, and how to get from A to B (by car, bus, and ferry).

And if you are travelling around the Balkans, you might find my itineraries on how to spend 2 days in each city helpful too.

There are detailed blogs on Belgrade, Ljubljana, Sarajevo, Budvda, Tirana, Skopje, Bucharest, Sofia and Athens. As well as Venice or Vienna.

Before we get started with the itinerary, let’s cover some important points to consider when planning a trip to Croatia. 

How many days in Croatia do you need?

This depends on your style. This Croatia itinerary is based on the fact that you have two weeks or 14 days to travel around Croatia. 

While you can also spend just a week in Croatia, and in this case, you can simply fly into Split and follow the second half of this itinerary from Split to Dubrovnik. You could then return in the future and focus on Zagreb and Istria , and possibly merge it with a side trip to Slovenia.

However, Croatia is an amazing destination and 2 weeks is just the right amount of time to travel the length of the country and see the main highlights.

Imagine winding coastal roads, medieval towns bathed in golden light at sunset, waterfalls cascading through emerald forests in Plitvice, and islands where time seems to slow down. And then you get to finish it on a high in Dubrovnik.

The diversity of Croatia will surprise and two weeks is the perfect amount of time to see it all. 

When is the best time to visit Croatia? High Season vs Low Season

Croatia is a year-round destination, but when you choose to visit can dramatically shape your experience. 

Croatia in the High season (June to August) 

The summer brings warm, sunny days perfect for island hopping, swimming in the Adriatic, and vibrant nightlife in coastal towns like Hvar and Split. However, it’s also when crowds swell, accommodation prices peak and popular spots like Dubrovnik’s Old Town can feel a bit packed.

July and August are the main summer holiday months for Europeans, so this is when many of them travel to Croatia. But it can be a great time to visit if you like hot summer days.

Croatia in the Low Season (April – May/September – October)

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider the shoulder seasons, April or May, September, or even early October. You’ll still enjoy pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and lower accommodation prices, especially along the coast. 

May is fantastic—flowers are in bloom, everything is lush and green, and places have just reopened for the season. There’s an energetic, fresh vibe in the air.

September is now the most popular month for cruises and touring companies, so while you won’t see peak summer crowds, expect many Australian and North American visitors. Still, it’s less crowded and the Adriatic Sea remains warm.

Inland destinations like Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, and Istria are also particularly lovely in spring and autumn when the temperatures are ideal for exploring. 

Winter can be quiet, with some islands and tourist services closed (be aware), but cities like Zagreb (especially during its award-winning Christmas market) offer charm and cultural appeal even in the colder months. 

I personally recommend following this itinerary between April and October.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia
Pula Arena – Roman amphitheatre from above

How to travel around Croatia? Car Rental vs Public transport 

This itinerary is based on renting a car at Zagreb Airport. As of 2025, prices for a small car start at around €200 for two weeks, giving you great flexibility to explore.

You’ll need to pay a one-way rental fee of around €100–150 if you drop the car off in a different city—Split Airport or Dubrovnik Airport are the most common.

For the best Car Hire deal check out Discover Cars – we usually book our rental cars through this website. 

You could also rent a car just for the first part—from Zagreb to Split—and then take ferries from Split to Hvar, Korčula, and eventually Dubrovnik. Keep in mind there’s an extra fee to take a car on the ferry, so returning the car in Split might be the more budget-friendly option.

Renting a car in Croatia will give you a lot of freedom

You won’t need a car in Dubrovnik, the public buses are excellent for getting around. However, if you do keep your car, you can drive to nearby wineries or pretty coastal towns like Cavtat, part of the gorgeous Dubrovnik Riviera. 

Of course, there are great perks for renting a car during your 2 weeks in Croatia.

With a car, you can reach scenic inland spots like Plitvice Lakes, charming Istrian hill towns, or hidden beaches along the coast at your own pace. The roads are well-maintained and easy to navigate, making self-driving a breeze. 

On the other hand, you can do this itinerary by a combination of buses and ferries. Public transport is reliable between major cities and towns, buses run frequently and are budget-friendly, while ferries connect the islands efficiently. However, buses don’t always reach rural areas so for this particular itinerary you would need to first take a bus to Plitvice Lakes from Zagreb and then back so you can continue towards Istria.

Croatian ferry Jadrolinija to island of Korcula

For buses: Check Flixbus or Rome2Rio for route planning.

For ferries: Book directly at Jadrolinija which it the main ferry line connecting Croatia even internationally. Rome2Rio will also show you the schedule of ferries.

If you’re visiting just a few cities such as Zagreb, Split, Dubrovnik, public transport is enough. You can book all forms of transport via Book A Way.

But for a full, off-the-beaten-path adventure, a rental car is your golden ticket as allows you to easily stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park and explore towns en route such as Trogir or Zadar en route to other destinations.

Tips on renting a car in Croatia:

  • Croatian highways are well-maintained and scenic. Tolls apply on major highways and can be paid by card or billed with your rental car at the end of the car hire.
  • Driving License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU travelers may need an International Driving Permit so make sure you get one at home.
  • Renting a smaller car will be better in towns with narrow streets and it will make parking easier. 

Is Croatia Safe?

Croatia is one of the safest countries you can visit. I’ve visited many times, and I’m always reminded how relaxed and safe it feels. You don’t need to worry about being mugged, and even pickpocketing is rare—mostly just in Dubrovnik. Street crime is minimal, and Croatia is safe for solo female travellers too.

Now that we covered some of the basics about Croatia, let me share the perfect 2 weeks Croatia Itinerary with you.

2 weeks in Croatia travel itinerary on a map

The Perfect 2 Weeks in Croatia Itinerary

Day 1–2: Zagreb – A Cool Capital With Character

Highlights: Upper Town, Dolac Market, Museum of Broken Relationships, Mirogoj Cemetery and the Botanical Gardens.

Start your journey in Zagreb, a capital often overshadowed by coastal stars, but well worth a stop so don’t just rush through it. It’s easy these days to fly into Zagreb Airport with plenty of airlines and pick up your rental car here.

Other ways to get into the city centre from Zagreb Airport:

  • Travelling light on a budget? Take bus 290 to Kvaternikov trg, then take a tram to your hotel (view hotels on Booking.com).
  • Prefer ease with moderate cost? The €8 shuttle bus is direct and reliable.
  • Looking for convenience and safe fares? Uber/Bolt (via upper Pickup zone) charges around €18. Taxi is usually €30.
  • Reserve a private airport transfer here.

I have now spent a few days in Zagreb and wrote this very detailed blog on how to spend 2 days in Zagreb. So make sure you check it out when planning your time in the city as it will help you.

Bakeries in Zagreb
Bakeries are a fantastic option in Zagreb – grab a borek

But here is a snapshot of what to do in Zagreb at the start of your 2 weeks in Croatia.

Zagreb blends Austro-Hungarian elegance with modern vibrancy. Wander through the Upper Town with its cobbled alleys, gas lanterns, and landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its colourful tiled roof. 

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Zagreb
2 weeks in Croatia – Start in Zagreb

Visit the quirky and emotional Museum of Broken Relationships. Climb the Lotrščak Tower for panoramic views and be there at noon for the daily cannon blast.

Stroll down Tkalčićeva Street for a coffee or a beer and visit the Dolca market – especially on a busy Saturday morning.

And don’t forget to try Zagreb’s speciality, štrukli. Štrukli can be baked or boiled and is made with cottage cheese, sour cream, and eggs, often served sweet or savoury. The best place to try štrukli is at La Štruk

For fancy brunch visit Boogie Lab and for the best bakery goods and borek, visit Pekara Dubravica just near the main square.

For something different, you can visit the Botanical Gardens. For 2 euros, you get to relax in nature. Or head out to Mirogoj Cemetery, famous for its massive outer walls covered in moss and foliage.

Overnight: Zagreb (2 nights) | View accommodations in Zagreb here

Botanical Gardens in Zagreb
Botanical Gardens in Zagreb Croatia
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Day 3: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Drive: about 2 hours (130 km) or direct bus by Flixbus (2 hours). Reserve your bus ticket here.

Highlights: Lakes, waterfalls, boardwalks

Leave Zagreb early and drive south to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia’s most iconic natural attraction.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a lush wonderland of cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes connected by wooden boardwalks. For me personally, this national park is simply one of the most beautiful places not just in Croatia but in Europe.

Plitvice Lakes National Park
Plitvice NP – Inside the park and view from Hotel Lyra

Choose between Upper Lakes and Lower Lakes or explore both. I recommend looking at the plan of walks and routes you can do online before you get here. There are two different entrances to the park, Entrance 1 or Entrance 2.

Entrance 1 is for the lower lakes, and Entrance 2 leads you to the upper lakes, but you can combine them and see it all in just a day by following the hiking paths that are linked with a boat ride, and there is also a shuttle that connects the paths.

Also, the lower lakes route covers the famous Big Waterfalls.

2 weeks in Croatia itinerary

My personal tip: Get your tickets online on their official website of Plitvice Lakes here. Arrive early when the park opens at 7 am to avoid crowds and start at Entrance 1 to do the lower lakes and see the big waterfall. Then you catch the boat across the lake and continue to do the lower lake loop. 

Then, finally choose to either get towards Entrance one with the shuttle and walk the upper part overlooking the lower lakes for a different perspective. This will bring you back to the entrance!

The view of the waterfalls
The view from the track above the Lower Lakes
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Wear comfortable shoes and bring snacks; there are food options in the park as well, but water and snacks are a great idea. Payment can only be done by card at the food vendors, so keep that in mind.

The park entrance also includes the boat that takes you across the big lake and you can then continue to the lower lakes.

Overnight: Near Plitvice Lakes National Park. Consider staying at accommodations near the park entrances or in nearby villages such as Mukinje, Rakovica, or Jezerce

These locations offer a range of options including hotels, guesthouses, and apartments, with varying levels of amenities and price points. 

If you wish to stay within the park, then Hotel Jazero near entrance 2 is a great option. Plitvice Miric Inn is recommended for those who wish to start early at Entrance 1. 

For something nice, stay in Hotel Lyra with the views of the forest.

Plitvice NP during Autumn vs Spring

Day 4–6: Plitvice to Istria (Pula and Rovinj)

Drive: about 3.5 to 4 hours (250 km)

Head west into the heart of Istria, Croatia’s truffle-scented peninsula known for its Italian influence, vineyards, hilltop towns, and coast. 

I would explain Istria as the Tuscany of Croatia. It really is a beautiful part of Croatia, and I had some of the best meals here during my travels in Croatia. I highly recommend this Truffle Hunting Tour with a 3 course menu, an experience you won’t soon forget.

Let’s break your time here in 2 places, you can choose to stay one or the other and simply do a day trip or you might also consider staying in Opatija and do a day trip to visit Pula and Rovinj.

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Day 4 – Pula

Explore the impressive Roman amphitheatre known as Pula Arena, one of the best-preserved in the world. I am still surprised just how very few people know about it.

Built between the 1st century BCE and the 1st century CE during Emperor Augustus’s reign, the Pula Arena was completed under Emperor Vespasian—the same emperor who commissioned Rome’s Colosseum.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Inside Pula Arena
Exploring Pula Arena

The cost to visit is just 10 euros, and you won’t encounter the crowds typically found at the Colosseum in Rome. The souvenir shop offers a selection of books and information about its history, so you can browse through it while you’re here.

Don’t miss the underground passages, once used to house the gladiators and animals before the contests began. 

Today, this area features an exhibition on ancient trade networks and olive oil production in Istria. Here you will find some old maps and oil urns known as amphoras.

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2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Sergius Arch in Pula
The Arch of the Sergi in Pula, Croatia

Enjoy seafood or Istrian pasta in the Old Town and admire the Arch of the Sergii and Temple of Augustus. 

Overnight: Pula (1 night) | View accommodations in Pula here

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Day 5–6 – Rovinj

Drive: about 45 minutes from Pula.

This seaside town is often called Croatia’s most romantic, and I would have to agree. I first came here in 2009, and while the streets are a little busier with tourists since then, the charm of Rovinj is the same.

Picture Venetian architecture, cobblestone lanes, and sunsets over the Adriatic. 

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Rovinj town
Rovinj in Croatia

Wander up to St. Euphemia’s Church for incredible views of the Adriatic Sea. Explore art galleries, boutiques, and cafes. You can easily spend some time here just wandering around, although the place is small.

There are many restaurants here offering exceptional food, the focus is on seafood, Istrina olive oil, and the speciality is wild asparagus. When in season, try the Wild Asparagus Risotto or their local speciality, omelette with wild asparagus. 

For a fancy meal, dine at La Puntulina or simply grab gelato by the marina.

Overnight: Rovinj (2 nights) | View accommodations in Rovinj here

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Calamari and streets of Rovinj
Calamari and streets in Rovinj, Croatia

Day 7: Rovinj to Zadar

Drive: about 4.5 hours (340 km) – Break up the drive with stops in Opatija or Senj.

The drive from Rovinj to Zadar is really scenic. You can follow the coastal road for stunning views of islands and the Adriatic Sea or use the highway if you prefer an easier drive.

Arrive in Zadar for lunch and an afternoon of exploring. Enter the historic core through the Land Gate, an impressive Renaissance structure built by the Venetians in the 16th century. Look up and you’ll see the winged lion of St. Mark, the permanent symbol of Venice’s power and presence along the Dalmatian coast.

Wander through Zadar’s Roman forum, the largest on the eastern Adriatic coast, and explore the ruins that mark the city’s ancient roots. 

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Zadar St Donatus Church
Zadar St Donatus Church

While you’re in the area, consider stepping into St. Donatus Church, a unique circular structure dating back to the 9th century. It’s the oldest and most important pre-Romanesque building in Croatia. Entry is 5 euros.

Just around the corner, is the Cathedral of St. Anastasia with its Romanesque façade and towering bell tower. It is also worth a visit, and the entrance is just a few euros.

As the day winds down, head toward Zadar’s waterfront promenade to discover one of the city’s most famous and innovative attractions, the Sea Organ. Designed by Croatian architect Nikola Bašić and unveiled in 2005, this architectural sound art installation transforms the movement of the sea into music. 

Beneath a series of white stone steps are 35 pipes of varying lengths and diameters, tuned to create harmonious, organ-like sounds.

As waves and wind push air through the pipes, the Sea Organ produces an ever-changing, soothing melody—an eerie, meditative soundtrack powered entirely by nature. You will see tourists and locals sit in a particular spot or even lying on the steps to be able to hear the “sea play the organ”.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Sea Organ in Zadar
2 weeks in Croatia – Sea Organ in Zadar

Just a few metres away, you’ll find another Bašić creation: the Sun Salutation. A large circle of solar panels is embedded in the pavement. By day, they soak up sunlight; by night, they put on a dazzling light show that dances in sync with the sounds of the Sea Organ.

Sunsets in Zadar are truly legendary. Alfred Hitchcock once famously claimed that Zadar had “the most beautiful sunset in the world”, and it’s hard to disagree. Sit on the steps, listen to the sea sing, and watch the sky turn shades of orange, pink, and violet. It’s a moment that lingers long after you leave.

Then explore the small streets of the Old Town and enjoy dinner at Pet Bunara Dine & Wine or if you wish to have a sea view treat yourself to a seafood dish at Restaurant Kornat. Or try the tiny Konoba Tovar for the most affordable and best seafood. As it’s a small place, expect to wait for the table. 

Overnight: Zadar (1 night) | View accommodations in Zadar here

Day 8–9: Zadar to Split via Šibenik and Trogir

The drive from Zadar to Split offers plenty of flexibility depending on how early you’d like to arrive in Split. If you plan to catch the ferry to Hvar the next morning, consider arriving in Split by evening so you can enjoy a relaxed morning in the city before boarding.

Along the way, make scenic and cultural stops in Šibenik and Trogir—both historic gems on the Dalmatian coast.

Šibenik:

Visit the remarkable St. James Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed entirely of stone and famous for its intricately carved faces along the exterior.

Wander through the old town’s maze of narrow alleys and grab a coffee or gelato along the pretty waterfront promenade.

Šibenik at night

Trogir:

A small but enchanting island town connected to the mainland by a bridge, Trogir is often overlooked but well worth a visit. 

Its compact medieval core is packed with Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. Climb the Cathedral of St. Lawrence’s bell tower for panoramic views, stroll the charming cobblestone streets, and take a break at a café along the scenic seaside promenade.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Trogir waterfront
Trogir’s waterfront is lined with cafes and restaurants

From Trogir, continue your drive to Split, Croatia’s buzzing coastal hub.

Overnight: Split (1 night) | View accommodations in Split here

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Day 10: Split – Ancient Rome Meets the Adriatic

Highlights: Diocletian’s Palace, Riva, Marjan Hill

Split’s Old Town is actually a Roman palace that became a city. It’s sort of hard to wrap your head around it and wheneverI am back I run into tourists with a map trying to find Diocletian’s Palace, not realising they are actually inside of it already as it was that huge and the city kind of grew within it.

You might arrive here in the afternoon the day before so you can see Split then. Either way, you will get to enjoy the sunset in Split.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Split Water front and inside
The waterfront of Split known as Riva and Diocletian’s palace

Today start your day in Split early on.

Explore Diocletian’s Palace—a maze of alleys, Roman ruins, shops, and cafes. Climb the Bell Tower of St. Domnius for sweeping views of Split from above. Walk along the sunny Riva Promenade and make sure to have a coffee in one of the many cafes along the promenade and soak up the vibes.

Today you have the option to continue onto the Island of Hvar or you can stay in Split and do so the next day.

I personally would recommend trying to get to the island today. Take an afternoon ferry, with or without your rental car. 

As mentioned at the beginning of the blog, you could opt to return your car here in Split (most likely the airport), or if you want to explore the island of Hvar by car, you can bring the car with you on types of ferries that offer this option. Some ferries are just for passengers on big catamaran speedboats.

What to consider:

You can catch a ferry from the Island to Hvar (Stari Grad or Hvar Town – make sure you know which one you are going to) and then another ferry to the Island of Korcula and the from Korcula another ferry to Dubrovnik. 

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Day 11–12: Island of Hvar

Ferry: 1-hour catamaran from Split (car ferry available from Split to Stari Grad on island Hvar or passenger ferry goes from Split to Hvar Town)

Hvar is Croatia’s most famous island, known for its lavender fields, nightlife, and hidden coves. It’s not just that. It has been voted to be one of the best 10 islands in the world. 

Personally, I do really love this island and the beauty of it is unparalleled.

Stari Grad in Hvar
The gorgeous Stari Grad on the Island of Hvar

There are many things to do here.

Stroll the marble streets of Hvar Town, eat gelato and taste olive oil made on the island. Eat plenty of seafood and swim in the Adriatic in the small coves and beaches.

You can get a taxi boat in Hvar Town to the Pakleni islands, or for something special, why not book a boat tour to Pakleni islands on a Comfort Yacht.

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2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Hvar Town from above
The Island of Hvar from above – 2 weeks Croatia Itinerary

Climb to the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views. Rent a boat or take a tour to the Pakleni Islands.

Visit Stari Grad, one of Europe’s oldest towns, for a quieter vibe and not to be missed if you do have your car with you.

Overnight: Hvar Town or Stari Grad (2 nights) | View accommodations in Hvar Old Town here

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Day 13: Hvar to Korčula

Travel: Ferry from Hvar to Korčula (there are direct passenger ferries from Hvar Town to Korcula Town, or if you are driving your car you would need to drive across the island of Hvar to Sucuraj to Drvenik, then continue on the mainland towards Orebic where you take the ferry to the Island of Korcula to a port called Dominance.

Korčula, often called “Little Dubrovnik,” is a medieval walled town set on a lush island, and I love how peaceful it feels.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - Korcula Town on the island
2 weeks Croatia Itinerary – Island of Korcula

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Explore Korčula Old Town, with its radial layout that reminds me of a fishbone. Visit the Marco Polo House (he was supposedly born here). Sample local white wine Grk and enjoy fresh seafood. 

There are numerous options for accommodation in Korcula, many just within walking distance of the Old town. As Korcula Town is small, it’s easy to see it all in just one day.

2 weeks itinerary Croatia - best gelato in Korcula
The streets of Korcula Town and gelato

If you have your car you might want to drive to Pupnatska Luka or Vela Pržina Beach for a swim.

Overnight: Korčula Town (1 night) | View accommodations in Korcula here

Day 14–15: Korčula to Dubrovnik

Drive: Ferry to Orebić, then drive to Dubrovnik (about 3 hours total). 

Or if you have returned your car in Split, take the passenger ferry from Korcula Town directly to Dubrovnik. This takes only about 2 hours. 

View of Korcula from ferry
A view of Korcula Island from the ferry – 2 weeks Croatia Itinerary

End your trip in Dubrovnik, the Pearl of the Adriatic. This is a highlight for anyone visiting Croatia, which also means Dubrovnik is almost always busy. 

To avoid crowds, come here early at 8 am when the City walls are also open for those who wish to walk them.

The entrance price for the Dubrovnik Walls has gone up again, and as of 2025, it is 40 euros. I highly recommend buying the Dubrovnik Pass for the same price as it includes the entrance to the walls as well as public transport, so you won’t have to pay for the buses. Additionally, it includes admission to some small museums.

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Dubrovnik City Walls – 2 weeks Croatia Itinerary

Once again, I wrote a detailed travel itinerary on how to spend 2 days in Dubrovnik. It will help you plan your time in Dubrovnik and also save you some money.

But again, in a nutshell, your plan for Dubrovnik would be:

  • Walk the City Walls early in the morning or before sunset. 
  • Visit the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and Franciscan Monastery. 
  • Ride the cable car to Mount Srđ for panoramic views. 
  • Wander Stradun Street and get lost in the Old Town’s alleys. 
  • Swim at Buža Bar, perched on cliffs outside the city walls. 
  • Treat yourself to a final dinner at 360° or Taj Mahal (Bosnian food, not Indian).
  • Enjoy kayaking around Dubrovnik, maybe even for the sunset
  • If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, join this popular walking tour
  • And if you have a free day after your 2 weeks in Croatia, why not join a trip to visit Montenegro on a day trip? Don’t take your rental car, as you would need approval for a non-Schengen country.
The main square inside Dubrovnik Old City – 2 weeks Croatia Itinerary

Overnight: Dubrovnik (2 nights) | View accommodations in Dubrovnik here

And with Dubrovnik, your amazing 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary is completed. You can return your car here in Dubrovnik or if you have already done so in Split, then simply catch the uber/taxi/bus to the airport and continue your travels or safe journey home.

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What to eat in Croatia during your 2 weeks here?

Croatian cuisine is simply delicious. Get your taste buds ready. The cuisine is a blend of Mediterranean, Central European, and Balkan influences.

From truffle pasta and olive oil in Istria to fresh Adriatic seafood along the Dalmatian coast and hearty stews in the north, every region brings something unique to the table.

We wrote a complete list of 20 most popular foods to eat in Croatia. And here are some of the must try/eat in Croatia based on the region you will visit on my 2 week Croatia itinerary.

Zagreb: Try the local speciality štrukli (baked or boiled pastry with cottage cheese and cream) – La Štruk is the best place for it. Snack on burek and kiflice from Pekara Dubravica.

Pula (Istria): Feast on Istrian truffle pasta – especially fuži pasta with truffles. Taste local olive oils and Istrian prosciutto.

Rovinj (Istria): Dine on wild asparagus risotto or omelette (seasonal specialty). Enjoy local wines like Malvazija.

Zadar: Sample grilled seafood and black risotto. Try paški sir (Pag island cheese) and local anchovies.

Fresh grilled calamari and fresh oysters in Ston

Trogir: Eat grilled fish and octopus salad at a konoba (traditional tavern). Enjoy wines from nearby vineyards like Kaštela.

Split: Don’t miss pašticada with gnocchi (slow-cooked beef in sweet-sour sauce). Enjoy soparnik (Swiss chard pie) from nearby Poljica.

Hvar: Indulge in lobster, seafood pasta, and local olive oil. Enjoy lavender-infused desserts and honey (in season).Try wine varietals like Plavac Mali and Bogdanuša.

Korčula: Dine on grilled fish, crni rižot (squid ink risotto), and seafood pasta. Taste local Grk white wine, unique to the island.

Dubrovnik: Enjoy black risotto, fresh oysters from Ston. Try rožata for dessert and sip on Dingač or Pošip wine. Treat yourself to a meal at Restaurant 360° or go local at Konoba Dubrava for peka.

Peka is a traditional slow cooked meal – try it during your 2 weeks in Croatia

Where to Stay in Croatia: Accommodation Guide for 2 Weeks

Croatia offers a variety of places to stay, from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here’s a quick guide to the main accommodation styles you’ll come across during your 2-week trip:

  • Private Apartments (Apartmani) – The most popular option! These are locally-owned flats or studios, often with a kitchen and great value. Ideal for couples and longer stays. Look for signs SOBE or ZIMMMER (in German).
  • Guesthouses & B&Bs – Family-run with a personal touch, often including breakfast. Great in smaller towns or near national parks.
  • Boutique Hotels – Stylish and full of character, often set in historic buildings. Perfect for couples looking for comfort.
  • Beach Resorts & Spa Hotels – Found along the coast, these offer pools, spas, and sea views. Some nice ones can be found in Hvar such as Resort Amfora or in Dubrovnik Valamar.
  • Hostels – Great for budget travellers, especially in cities and island hubs. Many offer private rooms too.
  • Agrotourism & Rural Stays – Stay on a working farm in Istria or Dalmatia, with homemade food and wine. Perfect for a peaceful escape.
  • Standard Hotels – From basic 3-stars to international chains, you’ll find these in most major cities but outside the 3 main cities they are practically non existent.

Tip: In summer, book early—especially for island stays and coastal towns. And if you’re driving, make sure your accommodation includes parking as this can be a real hassle in some places.

Book your accommodations through Booking.com to secure the best deal.

Final Thoughts on this 2 Weeks Croatia Itinerary

I hope you enjoyed reading and planning with this 2 weeks in Croatia itinerary. I think it has all the main places to see and fall in love with this country.

This Croatia itinerary can be also done in reverse, especially if you are planning to travel from Zagreb by train or bus into Italy or Austria or Hungary. You can also choose to just do a half of this itinerary and focus on Split – Hvar – Korcula – Dubrovnik.

Either way, Croatia is a place that lingers—with its flavours, its stories, and its unforgettable views. Ready to go? Pack your bags, hit the road (and ferry), and prepare for an adventure you’ll never forget.

Travel Tips for Europe

We have many travel guides and tips for Europe— an incredible continent!

Are you travelling on a budget? These ten cheapest European countries will help you plan an itinerary that lets you see as much as possible while there.

Furthermore, if you plan to travel long-term (or at least until the money runs out), these 21 cheapest countries to visit will help you make your hard-earned dollars stretch a bit further.

Delicious cuisine can be enjoyed across Europe, and our food map of Europe will inspire your culinary journey.

For food lovers, don’t miss our top 10 best countries for foodies, a couple of them are located in Europe.

Here are 8 things to know about travelling to Eastern Europe and it’s good to know these 7 misconceptions about Eastern Europe too.

These top 6 travel hacks to save money are great to read when planning your travels.

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Europe. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View eSIMs for individual European countries, or consider a regional eSIM for Europe (which covers 39 countries).

If your travels in Europe are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

If you want to travel with like-minded travellers, consider joining a group tour. Check out our Group Tours first for upcoming adventures, or view Tourradar for great deals on group tours in Europe.

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.

Did you enjoy this article? Share it with friends and family!

Travel Planning Resources

✈️ Flights: We use Skyscanner to book cheap flights worldwide.

🏨 AccommodationBooking.com is our preferred platform for booking hotels and accommodation. We use Vrbo to book apartments and long-term stays.

🏥 Travel Insurance: We recommend Heymondo (Get 5% off Heymondo)  & SafetyWing

🚌 Transportation: Trainline is the best website to reserve trains. We use Omio to book transport worldwide. For travel in Asia, we use 12Go.

🚘 Car Rental: We use DiscoverCars to book rental cars worldwide.

👫 Group Tours: We now offer Group Trips; view them here! Alternatively, we recommend searching the Tourradar website. For Europe, Expat Explore is a good choice. *Get 5% off when you quote code VERYHUNGRYNOMADS to your Expat reservations agent. (*Valid for new clients only).

📸 Day Tours & TripsGetYourGuide & Viator are the only two platforms you need.

📚 Lonely Planet: The Best Range of Travel Guides & Ebooks, and FREE Shipping! (use code RACHELDAVEY10 for a 10% discount)

🎒 LuggageOsprey Farpoint 40L Backpack or Samsonite Luggage Range.

🛄 What to Pack: Don’t forget your Universal charger and a good power bank.  To help you pack the essentials, here is our ULTIMATE Packing List for all Travellers.

🐶 Become a House Sitter: Join Trusted Housesitters and enjoy FREE accommodation worldwide. Use our invite to receive 25% off your new membership.

💰 Send Money Anywhere: WISE & Revolut are the best online accounts that let you send money, get paid, and spend money internationally. Both are so easy to use and way cheaper than any bank transfer.

📶 Stay Connected: Airalo eSIM lets you get connected when you land at your destination. We LOVE this product! Use code MARTIN9009 to get $3 off your first Airalo eSIM (new users only) OR click here to SAVE 15% off your eSIM(valid till 31/12/2025).

✅ Check out our Travel Gear and Travel Resources for more valuable tips to save you money!

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