One Week in Croatia – What to do & where to go

We believe Croatia to be a complete destination, offering fine food and drink, fascinating culture, intriguing history and historic sites, and hundreds of miles of magnificent coastline. 

A stay of at least seven days in Croatia is appropriate. With an itinerary of one week or more, you’ll be able to spend significant time in one region of the country, exploring in some depth, or enjoy a short tailor-made tour or small ship cruise covering the best of Croatia in comfort and style. 

Firstly, for those happy to stay in one place and avoid too much moving around, we look at single location stays. 

Dubrovnik

Croatia’s premier tourist destination, the “Pearl of the Adriatic” is famous for its dazzling Old Town. Spend a few days exploring the winding cobbled streets and imposing City Walls of the fortified city, all the while keeping a keen eye out for Game of Thrones filming sites – Dubrovnik as recently discovered further fame, reimagined as King’s Landing in the HBO series. 

Split

Split combines a breathlessly atmospheric historic center with a glitzy, forward-thinking culture. Its seafront restaurants are among the best in the country, its bar and cafe culture second to none, and there are innumerable gorgeous sandy and pebbled beaches within easy reach. Add in the beautiful UNESCO-protected Diocletian’s Palace, dating back to 305AD, it’s no wonder the coastal city has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Southern Europe.

Makarska Riviera

The Makarska Riviera is a popular resort area, running south of Split from Brela down to Gradac. Facing the islands of Brac and Hvar, the gorgeous coastline here is home to many excellent resorts and cove after cove of magnificent coastline. Spend your days relaxing on award-winning beaches such as magical Punta Rata, or family favorite Tucepi. Boat rides out to the nearby Dalmatian islands are a fine way to break up the trip. 

Less keen on a resort stay; happier to combine multiple destinations in a one-week itinerary? Below are our suggestions for tours or cruises that showcase the best of travel to Croatia. 

Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Trogir, Split

An overland route through the heartland of Croatia, this itinerary starts in the capital Zagreb and ends in the Dalmatian Coast’s largest city, Split. Along the way, spend the night in scenic Plitvice Lakes National Park, and pass through Zadar, with its Greeting to the Sun and sea organ art installations. While in Split, day trips can be made to romantic Trogir, and to the waterfalls of Krka National Park.

Split to Dubrovnik cruise (via Hvar and Brac)

The best introduction to Croatia is one of our award-winning, best-selling, Deluxe Small Ship Cruises between Split and Dubrovnik. Combine the two UNESCO World Heritage sites with calls to a host of wonderful Adriatic Sea islands, including secluded Vis, fashionable Hvar, vibrant Brac, and alluring Korcula.  

Dubrovnik to Split overland (via Makarska)

This road trip along the Dalmatian Coast can be conducted by private vehicle, or independently if happy to rent a car. Spend as much time as you wish in the two major cities, and then in between plot a route along the magical Makarska Riviera, calling in on beach upon glittering beach. Activities along the way include kayaking, parasailing, boat trips out to the islands, plus plenty of cocktails and seafood dinners.

Northern Highlights – Pula to Zadar

An alternative itinerary that explores the north of the country – perfect for those making a second visit to Croatia, or more focussed on the culinary and scenic delights of Istria. Famed for its truffles, wines, and dazzling hilltop villages, Istria is Croatia’s answer to Tuscany and a delight to explore. Begin in the Roman city of Pula, famed for its well-preserved amphitheater, and continue down the coast to finish in Zadar.

If you’re looking for travel ideas, check out our recommended bespoke tours and luxury small ship cruises which feature Istria – and elsewhere in wonderful Croatia. 

Get started on your dream trip to Croatia by contacting our specialists today.