Experience Croatia in 10 Days: A Dream Itinerary of Culture and Coastline

Day 1: Zagreb – A city full of charm

Zagreb is the perfect starting point for your Croatian adventure — a vibrant, dynamic city with a lovely mix of history and modern energy. As you stroll through Upper Town, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a living postcard, with its cobblestone streets, colorful buildings and charming cafes. One of my favorite things to do here is ride the iconic funicular up to the top for panoramic views of the city. Zagreb also has a unique vibe, blending old-world charm with contemporary culture. If you're into history, the World War II tunnel offers an insightful, off-the-beaten-path experience. After a day of wandering, enjoy a cozy meal at Pod Zidom Bistro — perfect for savoring some local flavors. You’ll quickly feel at home in this lively, welcoming city.

Day 2: Istria – Rolling vineyards and hilltop towns


Your next destination is Istria, a stunning peninsula dotted with rolling vineyards and medieval hilltop towns. Away from the hustle and bustle, yet full of character and charm. Stay in a peaceful hotel surrounded by vineyards, and take in the views of the countryside. Spend the afternoon at local wineries like Kabola or Kozlović, sampling some of the finest Malvasia and Teran wines. I suggest you relax in the evening and have dinner at Luciano Restaurant in Buje. It's a fantastic spot to savor Istrian cuisine while taking in the stunning sunset over the rolling hills.

Day 3: Istria – Exploring Motovun & Grožnjan


Today, explore the hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan, two of the region's hidden gems. Motovun, perched high on a hill, offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape. It’s famous for its truffles, so be sure to try a dish infused with this local delicacy — you won’t regret it! After Motovun, head over to Grožnjan, an artist's haven that feels like something out of a storybook. Wander the cobblestone streets, pop into galleries and listen to live music that fills the air.

Day 4: Istria – Coastal beauty of Poreč & Rovinj


Today, dive into the beauty of Istria’s coast. Start in Poreč, home to the UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica, where the early Christian mosaics will transport you to another time. After soaking in the history, head to Rovinj — a town with narrow, winding streets and colorful buildings. Wander down to the harbor and watch the boats as you take in the beauty of the sea. A visit to Bale, a nearby town, is a must for anyone interested in olive oil. Here, you can tour a family-owned olive farm, learn about the production process and taste some of the finest organic oils. To end the day, savor dinner at Monte, one of the best restaurants in Rovinj.

Day 5: Split – A mix of history and relaxation


Next up is Split, a city that beautifully blends historical significance with laid-back seaside relaxation. Begin your day exploring the incredible Diocletian’s Palace. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site that’s not only an ancient monument but also the heart of Split’s Old Town. After exploring the ruins. Take a leisurely walk along the Riva Promenade, where you can sip coffee or shop for souvenirs while enjoying views of the sea. I love heading to Marjan Forest Park for panoramic views of the city and coastline — it’s the perfect spot to take a deep breath and soak in the beauty around you. For a relaxing dinner, try Bokeria Kitchen & Wine, where you can enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a contemporary flair.

Day 6: Split – Explore at your own pace


Today, take it easy and explore Split at your own pace. If you’re a history lover, you can spend your day visiting the Temple of Jupiter and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, two of the city’s must-see landmarks. But if you’d rather just relax, you can wander the local markets, sip coffee at one of the many cafes along the Riva, or visit one of Split’s beautiful beaches for a refreshing swim.

Day 7: Hvar – Welcome to the sunniest island in Europe

With an average of 2,800 hours of sunshine per year, Hvar is a place where adventure meets serenity. After a ferry transfer to the island, get ready to be amazed by its clear waters, lush landscapes and charming towns. Stari Grad, one of the island’s oldest towns, is full of character and offers plenty of opportunities to explore its history and culture. For a bit of fun, take an e-bike tour through the lavender fields of Hvar. This is a refreshing way to explore the island’s natural beauty and experience its fragrant atmosphere. When you’re ready to relax, enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants. The island’s calm atmosphere will make you feel like you’ve found your own slice of paradise.

Day 8: Hvar – Speedboat to the Pakleni Islands and Red Caves


For a dose of adventure, hop on a private speedboat to the Pakleni Islands, where you can swim in secluded coves and snorkel in crystal-clear waters. The Pakleni Islands are a group of beautiful, unspoiled islands just off Hvar, perfect for swimming, snorkeling or just relaxing on the beach. The Red Caves, named for their striking red color, offer an incredible experience as you navigate through the caves and admire their natural beauty. The crystal-clear waters and secluded nature of these spots make it ideal for snorkeling. In the evening, head to Dalmatino — a cozy, family-run restaurant in Hvar Town that serves some of the best Dalmatian dishes on the island. Their seafood is simply unbeatable, and the warm, friendly atmosphere makes it one of my favorite spots.

Day 9: Dubrovnik

Take the ferry to Dubrovnik. Once you are settled in, start by wandering the iconic city walls for breathtaking views of the terracotta rooftops and sparkling Adriatic Sea. Explore the charming Old Town’s narrow streets, stopping at local cafes and shops along the way. Don’t miss a visit to Fort Lovrijenac or a stroll down Stradun, the city’s lively main street. For a romantic evening, dine at Nautika Restaurant, where elegant prix-fixe and à la carte menus are paired with stunning waterfront views.

Day 10: Dubrovnik – A Day of relaxation and discovery

On your final day in Dubrovnik, take things slow and relax. Wander along the coastline, taking in the views of the glistening Adriatic and the city’s stunning architecture. There are several beach clubs with music, beer and cliff jumping for a fun afternoon. If you’re up for more exploration, consider a boat trip to one of the nearby islands, like Lokrum, where you can hike, swim or simply relax in a peaceful setting.

Must-try foods: Don’t miss out on Peka, black risotto, fresh seafood along the coast and Croatian wines like Malvasia from Istria and Plavac Mali from Dalmatia.

Best time to visit: May to September offers warm weather and ideal conditions for coastal adventures. July and August are peak tourist months.

Top sites to see: Don’t miss Dubrovnik’s city walls, Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Roman Arena in Pula, Medieval town of Motovun and Grožnjan.

Skip the crowds: In Dubrovnik and Split, cruise ships tend to bring large groups of tourists during the day. The best way to enjoy the sites without the crowds is to explore in the early morning or late evening.

Currency: Croatia uses the euro (EUR). Credit cards (Mastercard and Visa, but not Amex) are widely accepted, though it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller towns and local markets.

Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Croatia page.