The route at a glance
How long to stay in each city and how to get between them. Fares are typical one-way prices per person.
- 1DubrovnikDays 1–3Bus · 3h 55m · from €14Bus times and fares
- 2SplitDays 4–5Bus · 2h · from €9Bus times and fares
- 3ZadarDays 6–7
Days 1–3
Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik is the "Pearl of the Adriatic," a stunning walled city rising from azure waters. Made famous as King's Landing in Game of Thrones, this UNESCO gem offers medieval walls to walk, Baroque churches, terracotta rooftops, and crystal-clear swimming spots.
- City Walls Walk
- Old Town Stradun
- Fort Lovrijenac
- Cable Car to Srđ
- Lokrum Island
- Game of Thrones Tours
Mid-range
UpscaleAbout €546 mid-range for hotel, food and sightseeing (€182 a day).
Days 4–5
Split
Split is Croatia's vibrant second city, built around the ancient Diocletian's Palace—a living Roman ruin where locals live, work, and party within 1,700-year-old walls. The city offers excellent beaches, island-hopping ferries, and authentic Dalmatian culture.
- Diocletian's Palace
- Riva Promenade
- Cathedral of St. Domnius
- Marjan Hill
- Bačvice Beach
- Island Hopping to Hvar
Mid-range
UpscaleAbout €314 mid-range for hotel, food and sightseeing (€157 a day).
Days 6–7
Zadar
Zadar is a Croatian coastal gem with Roman ruins, medieval churches, and unique modern installations. This underrated city offers Alfred Hitchcock's "most beautiful sunset in the world," a musical Sea Organ played by waves, and the Sun Salutation light installation.
- Sea Organ
- Sun Salutation
- Roman Forum
- St. Donatus Church
- Sunset at the Riva
- Kornati Islands Day Trip
Mid-range
UpscaleAbout €294 mid-range for hotel, food and sightseeing (€147 a day).
Travel times and fares come from Omio and hotel prices from Traveloka; both change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
More Croatia itineraries
Croatia itinerary: FAQ
How many days do you need in Croatia?+
7 days is enough for Dubrovnik, Split and Zadar: 3 days in Dubrovnik, 2 days in Split, 2 days in Zadar. With 10 and 14 days you can follow our 10-day and 14-day route instead.
What is the best way to travel around Croatia?+
On this route every leg works by bus. Dubrovnik to Split takes about 3h 55m from €14; Split to Zadar takes about 2h from €9. Total time on the move is about 5h 55m.
How much does a 7-day trip to Croatia cost?+
Plan on about €496 per person on a budget or €1,154 mid-range for accommodation, food and sightseeing, plus around €23 for the transport between cities. Flights to Croatia are not included.