Perfect 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary to see it all

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Looking for the perfect 10 days in Croatia itinerary to see it all? You are at the right place!

Tucked between central and eastern Europe, Croatia is a picturesque country blessed with breathtaking natural scenery. From its stunning national parks to marvelous beaches and numerous islands dotted along the Adriatic Sea, Croatia is sure to steal your heart.

But deciding on what to do while you’re visiting Croatia can be a bit of a challenge, and for one simple reason – Croatia is extremely widespread. 

The country boasts an expansive coastline with over 1,000 islands and is home to some of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

If you’re planning a trip to Croatia soon, you’re in luck. This detailed Croatia itinerary takes you through the nation’s famous major cities and landmarks, and we also threw in some hidden gems for you that receive little to no tourists.

So without further ado, let’s dive into this perfect Croatia itinerary that you should steal.

Perfect 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary (day trips + national parks)

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10-day Croatia itinerary | At a glance

Whether it’s sun lounging on white-sand beaches you’re seeking or an inspiring retreat to the spectacular Plitvice Lakes National Park, this Croatia itinerary has you covered.

Here’s a snapshot of how you’ll be spending 10 days in Croatia:

• Day 1 and 2 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Explore Zagreb highlights and the Old Town
• Day 3 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Discover Rovinj’s Old Town and beautiful beaches nearby
• Day 4 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Discover the coastal town of Pula
• Day 5 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Spend the day at Plitvice Lakes National Park
• Day 6 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Explore Zadar’s top attractions
• Day 7 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Visit Krka National Park
• Day 8 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Discover the best of Split
• Day 9 and 10 of 10 days in Croatia itinerary: Explore Dubrovnik’s best highlights and Hvar Island

Planning your trip to Croatia: Itinerary for 10 days

When planning your trip to Croatia, it is important to consider how you will be traveling within the country and what type of activities you would like to do while there. 

If Croatia is your first country of entry in the Balkans or generally in Europe, then flying down to Zagreb is the best option. 

We flew from North America Canada actually and from there traveled all over the Balkans. You can spend 1-2 days in Zagreb and then make your way to other parts of Croatia. 

From Zagreb, you can pick up a car rental, and then follow the itinerary for 10 days as outlined below. We have provided hotel recommendations for each destination for an overnight stay. 

Without renting a car, a mix of day tours (with a base in a major city like Zagreb, Split, Zadar, or Dubrovnik) and public transportation is the way to go.

There are regular buses available from Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik to reach other Croatian destinations – the only thing to keep in mind is that although affordable, and clean, they take a lot of time. 

Traveling from Zagreb to Dubrovnik will take you a full day (or overnight). We will share a suggested itinerary sample below without a car. 

Alternatively, you can explore Croatia by boat – ferries between the islands of Croatia offer a cheap and efficient way to get around. 

Now, let’s kickstart this 10-day Croatia itinerary,

Day 1 and 2 of 10 days in Croatia: Explore Zagreb highlights and the Old Town

As the capital city, Zagreb is probably where you’ll land when arriving in Croatia. And by the way, it’s the best place to kick off this ten day Croatia itinerary. 

BOOK: Airport transfer from Zagreb to the city centre

Zagreb is dotted with stunning Austro-Hungarian architecture, quirky museums, charming cafes, and miles of the signature cobblestones in Europe.

Where to stay in Zagreb

The capital city is one of the best places to stay in Croatia. It brims with hotels from budget-friendly to mid-range and luxury accommodations. 

Here are a few great options for you to stay in Zagreb:

• Sheraton Zagreb Hotel – Get a much-needed reprieve in a luxe room and sample Croatian cuisine at the on-site restaurant after a long day exploring Zagreb. Book your stay here.

• Hotel Jägerhorn – Elegant, intimate, and dotted with greenery, this boutique hotel is just a stone’s throw away from Dolac Market and Ban Josip Jelačić Square. Book your stay here.

• Timeout Heritage Hotel Zagreb – Boasting a vibrant open terrace, restaurant, and bar, this hotel is one of the best places to stay in the city center. It’s located just a short walk from the Museum of Broken Relationships. Book your stay here.

Day 1: Wander around Old Town Zagreb

Upper Town Zagreb, aka the Old Town, is a historic city centre. It’s home to two of the best-preserved medieval towns, Gradec and Kaptol. 

The Upper Town is full of charm and home to lots of key landmarks that you must see, even if you’re only spending one day in Zagreb.

St. Mark’s Church

As you stroll through the historic Old Town, take some time to marvel at the vibrant tiled roof of St. Mark’s Church. 

The roof displays the medieval coat of arms of the Triune Kingdom and the emblem of Zagreb.

Stone Gate

Then take a two-minute detour to the Stone Gate to admire its intricate metalwork. This landmark is the eastern gate of Gradec and a significant shrine or oath site where people come to light candles and pray for good health, happiness, and love.

Museum of Broken Relationships

Continue your walk to the Museum of Broken Relationships. The Baroque palace boasts intriguing displays and exhibitions of personal items and brief stories about former lovers. Here is an entry ticket to the museum.

Your next stop is the bustling Ban Josip Jelačić Square. 

Ban Josip Jelačić Square

As the largest square in Zagreb, Ban Josip Jelačić Square is home to an abundance of Austro-Hungarian architecture. 

It’s also a popular meeting place for locals and tourists looking to buy fresh flowers, grab a cup of coffee at a cafe, or stroll through a market.

Dolac Market

If you’d like more variety, the Dolac Market is only a short walk away. Here you’ll find a sea of vendors under red umbrellas, selling flowers, fresh fruits, and vegetables, as well as artisanal products such as ham, cheese, and cured meats. 

Cathedral of Zagreb

End your adventure through the Upper Town at the colossal Cathedral of Zagreb. 

Known for its Gothic-style architecture and towering spires, the cathedral is the second tallest building in Croatia.

Day 2 of 10 day Croatia itinerary: Zagreb highlights

Spend the second day of your time in Zagreb admiring the most popular attractions in the city.

Picnic at Zrinjevac

Situated in the city center, Zrinjevac is an expansive green square where locals love to hang out, especially in the summer months. 

The square often hosts pop-up food stalls, music events, and festivals.

Visit the Croatian Association of Fine Artists

If you’re a lover of arts and architecture, consider visiting the Croatian Association of Fine Artists. 

This nongovernmental, non-profit organization boasts several galleries, exhibitions, and an impeccable garden.

Note: In the late afternoon or evening, start for Rovinj. Zagreb to Rovinj is a 3 hours drive. 

Where to stay in Rovinj

This tightly packed port city along the Adriatic Sea welcomes thousands of visitors annually, so finding a place to stay won’t be much of a hassle. 

Here are some options to consider:

• Lone Hotel by Maistra Collection – Situated at Zlatni Rt Park Forest’s doorstep, this 5-star hotel boasts a state-of-the-art white exterior and contemporary interior decor. Book your stay here.

• Spirito Santo Palazzo Storico – Located in a renovated 1920s heritage building, this 5-star hotel boasts a whitewashed facade and modern furnishings. Enjoy a glass of wine in the hotel’s wine vault, along with a tasty Istrian meal. Book your stay here.

Day 3 of 10 days in Croatia: Discover Rovinj’s Old Town and beautiful beaches nearby

Rovinj is a beautiful city located on the Istrian Peninsula. 

Sitting on a headland, this port city is characterized by the towering church of St. Euphemia, tightly packed houses, narrow cobblestone streets, and stunning white-sand beaches.

Admire the Church of St. Euphemia

Sitting atop a hill, the Church of St. Euphemia, locally known as the Basilica of St. Euphemia, and its towering bell tower dominate the Rovinj skyline. 

Constructed between 1654 and 1680, the tower was built in the same style as the St Mark’s Campanile in Venice.

Apart from marveling at the Baroque architecture of the church, you can also walk up the bell tower for incredible views of the city and the Adriatic Sea. 

Inside you’ll find relics, a marble altar, and a statue of St. Euphemia right at her sarcophagus.

Wander through the Rovinj Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, aromas, and sounds of the buzzing Rovinj Green Market. 

Speckled with vendors selling local or imported fruits and vegetables, souvenirs, and artisanal products like truffle, honey, and liqueur, Rovinj Market has it all. 

Spend time walking the maze of stalls, finding fresh produce and artisanal products like toys, and handmade bags, at the best price. 

You’ll also find a fresh fish market, where you can buy the day’s catch.

Stroll around the Old Town Rovinj

Rovinj’s Old Town is mostly pedestrianized, making it an easy place to walk around without having to move for vehicles. 

The town boasts numerous pastel-colored buildings lined along the coast, historic arches dotted across town, antique shops, and lots of charming cafes to grab a tasty lunch.

The best way to see the highlights in Old Town Rovinj is by taking a guided walking tour through the town.

Your expert guide will lead through Rovinj’s winding cobblestoned streets and give you historical anecdotes of the city. 

You’ll also visit top attractions, like the Arch of the Bearded and Bridge Square.

Spend the day at one of these Rovinj beaches

Rovinj is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Istria Peninsula. 

There are lots of beaches you can visit, from pebblestone to paved and rocky boulder-filled shorelines.

Mulini Beach – Located on Lone Bay, about a 10-minute walk from Rovinj’s historic center, Mulini is where people come for sunbathing, swimming, and many water sport activities. 

The paved promenade is dotted with beach bars and hotel restaurants. 

Golden Cape Beach – Tucked into the lush Zlatni Rt Park Forest, this beach boasts a pebble and boulder-lined shoreline. 

It’s the largest and most visited beach in Rovinj, thanks to its calm waters, perfect swimming conditions, and snorkeling spots.

Take a day trip to Archäologische Stätte Monkodonja

If you’re a history lover, consider taking a day trip to the Monkodonja archaeological site just five miles south of Rovinj. 

Discovered after excavation in 1953, the ruins are said to trace as far back as 1800 –1200 BC. 

This hilltop Bronze Age settlement resembles a labyrinth of dilapidated walls more or less 3.3 feet in height. 

You can explore the ruins by walking along ancient paved areas to the cultic cave.

Day 4 of 10 days in Croatia: Discover the coastal town of Pula

Pula is another stunning city sitting along the Istrian Peninsula. This port city is brimming with history, and that can be seen from the abundance of ancient Roman ruins. 

Note: Rovinj to Pula is just a 40-minute drive. 

The most notable is the Amfiteatar u Puli, also known as the Pula Arena.

Take a walking tour around Pula’s Old Town

The Old Town of Pula contains nearly 3,000 years of continuous human settlement history. This is impressive, considering that Old Town’s historic city center is a relatively small area.

Pula Arena

Kickstart your walking tour of the historic Old Town at the famous Pula Arena. 

It goes without saying that this Colosseum-like amphitheater is a clear and visible sign of the city’s Roman heritage. 

These ancient Roman ruins still have their three-story-high arched walls and four towers intact. 

Get a Pula Arena entrance ticket and see the inner workings of this Roman amphitheater in detail, like cisterns, underground passages used by Gladiators, and the 20,000 spectators’ arena.

Arch of the Sergii

Within a 10-minute walking distance, you’ll reach a 26-foot triumphal arch. 

The ancient Roman arch stands as a commemoration to three members of the Sergii family for their part in the Battle of Actium in France. 

The Arch of the Sergii is one of the most picturesque parts of the Old Town and a perfect place to take pictures. 

Temple of Augustus

Your next stop on your walking tour is the 2,000-year-old Temple of Augustus. 

Built from 27 BC to AD 14, during the lifetime of the first Roman emperor, Augustus, this Roman temple is well-preserved thanks to its conversion into a church.

The church was later converted into a granary before it was later turned into the museum it is today. Take a look inside and admire the ancient stonework pieces and bronze sculptures.

See the marine life at the Pula Aquarium

Located inside the Austro-Hungarian fortress of Verudela, the Pula Aquarium is home to about 211 species of marine life, making it the largest in Croatia. 

You’ll see aquatic animals like blacktip reef sharks, a room dedicated to seahorses, and a turtle rehabilitation center – the only one in the country.  

Take a day trip to Cape Kamenjak

Situated on the southernmost tip of the Istria Peninsula; this rugged headland is an outdoor paradise for thrill seekers. 

Dotted with a collection of small islands around the shore, beautiful beaches, and epic cliff diving spots, visiting Cape Kamenjak is the perfect day trip.

Where to stay in Pula

Pula’s Old Town is the best place to stay when visiting the port city. Its proximity to top highlights, restaurants, and hotels makes it an ideal place to stay in Pula. 

Here are a few accommodation options to consider:

• Aurora Rooms – If you’re looking to save money but are not willing to skimp on the amenities, this is the right place for you. Enjoy the benefits of a shared kitchen, a safety deposit box in each room, and great views of the city. Book your stay here.

• Premantura Resort – Hotel & Restaurant – Located in Premantura, less than four miles away from Cape Kamenjak, this 4-star resort is surrounded by lush trees, and the expansive glass windows allow you to wake up to this serene backdrop. Book your stay here.

Day 5 of 10 days in Croatia: Spend the day at Plitvice Lakes National Park

The Plitvice Lakes is one of the most iconic bodies of water in Croatia. 

Note: Pula or Rovinj to Plitvice lakes is 3+ hours by car. 

Located within the Plitvice Lakes National Park, this spectacular network of 16-tiered lakes joins into 92 cascading waterfalls and extends into a limestone canyon.

Plitvice Lakes National Park is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest and largest national park in the country. 

Spend your day here and explore a multitude of nature hikes, kayaking, swimming, e-biking, quad biking, and chasing waterfalls.

Tip:  If you’re a natural explorer, get yourself an entrance ticket to the Plitvice Lakes National Park and get access to the park’s panoramic train and shuttle buses.

Take a guided walking tour

Plitvice Lakes National Park has four hiking trails and seven routes that take you through the park. 

You can choose to trek through the park using either of the seven routes, depending on the entrance you use – there are two entrances to Plitvice Lakes National Park.

A guided walking tour through Plitvice Lakes National Park takes you through 29,685 hectares of lakes and lush forests. Your expert guide leads you past the Upper and Lower lakes, as well as several waterfalls.

Note: The Plitvice Lakes area is expansive and is better explored using a combination of transport methods, that is, by ferry, train, and on foot. 

Go kayaking in the Mreznica Canyon

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mreznica Canyon is a favorite kayaking route in the Plitvice Lakes. 

Take a kayaking safari tour in Plitvice Lakes and experience mesmerizing landscapes, tall white cliffs, narrow gorges, and breathtaking waterfalls along the Mreznica River. 

Where to stay in Plitvice Lakes National Park

When it comes to overnight accommodation in a national park, Plitvice Lakes has a multitude for you to pick from. 

Here are a few places you can stay in and near Plitvice Lakes:

• Plitvice Holiday Resort – Tucked between towering pine trees and rolling hills, this 4-star lodge is about five miles from Plitvice Lakes National Park. The resort has two swimming pools, an onsite restaurant, miniature golf, and volleyball facilities. Book your stay here.

• Lakeside Hotel Plitvice – Located about six miles from Entrance 1 of Plitvice Lakes National Park, this cabin-like hotel offers a relaxing stay with top-tier amenities. Enjoy an a la carte breakfast daily before heading to the spa for a relaxing treatment. Book your stay here

Note: Stay overnight at the National Park, and then drive to Zadar the next day. Travel time is 1 hour and 30 minutes. 

Day 6 of 10 days in Croatia: Explore Zadar’s top attractions

Known for its laidback Old Town, quirky cafes, quiet beaches, and stunning sunsets, Zadar is where most tourists go to avoid the high-season crowds in Split and Dubrovnik. 

But the most notable thing about Zadar is its rich Roman and Venetian history, seen in the city’s top highlights.

Wander through Old Town Zadar

Zadar’s Old Town is a pedestrian-only cobblestoned historic center with narrow streets dotted with Roman ruins and medieval churches. 

Roman Forum

Start your stroll at the ancient Roman Forum to admire medieval architecture and learn about the city’s history. You’ll also find St. Donatus Church nearby.

Cathedral of St. Anastasia

Then head to St. Anastasia’s Cathedral to snap a few photos at one of Zadar’s most famous landmarks. This is also a great place to grab a cup of coffee from one of the numerous cafes. 

See a glass-blowing tutorial at the Museum of Ancient Glass

Almost all glass-blowing artisans have shut down their businesses in Zadar, but the Museum of Ancient Glass is where you’ll find the last glass-blowing workshop in the city. 

Take a tour of the museum and see a vast collection of artifacts. On the second floor, you’ll experience a master glass blower, Marko Štefanac, creating souvenirs, like vases and jugs, in a furnace primed over 2,372°F.

Watch the sunset at the Sea Organ

End your day in Zadar with a breathtaking sunset at the Sea Organ. This fascinating musical instrument creates sounds of music as the waves crash against the seabed. 

The Sea Organ comprises a system of underground tubes that compose different whistles, percussion, and musical sounds.

Before heading to your hotel, walk up to the Sun Salutation, also known as the Greeting to the Sun Monument, for a once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

The landmark is a multilayered glass disc that captures the sun’s energy during the day and produces an eclectic lights show after sunset.

Where to stay in Zadar

This seaside city along the Dalmatian Coast boasts numerous restaurants and quirky activities dotted across the city. 

Pair that with the Roman and Venetian ruins, and you have a great one-day itinerary. Here are some accommodation options to consider during your stay:

• Falkensteiner Club Funimation Borik – One of the best hotels in Zadar, offering multiple activities like surfing, diving, beach volleyball, and tennis. Book your stay here.

• Almayer Art & Heritage Hotel – Situated in the heart of Zadar’s Old Town, this renovated 19th-century hotel boasts stylish rooms and an onsite restaurant with a glass ceiling. Book your stay here.

Day 7 of 10 days in Croatia: Visit Krka National Park

Often overlooked by tourists flocking into the nearby city of Split, Krka National Park is one of the best green spaces in Croatia. 

Dotted with a series of seven waterfalls, hiking trails, boardwalks, mysterious caves, and plenty of wildlife, Krka National Park is a must-add to any Croatia itinerary.

Swim at the base of Skradinski Buk

Marvel at the series of cascading waterfalls at the Skradinski Buk. This is one of the most scenic spots in Krka National Park, so make sure to bring your camera. 

You can also swim under the waterfalls and at the pools at the base of the Skradinski Buk from April to October.

Sunset at Visovac Monastery

Situated on a tiny island in lake Visovačko jezero, the Visovac Monastery is a notable landmark in Krka National Park. 

Thanks to its unique location and religious significance, the monastery has become a popular tourist stop in the region.

Take a boat ride to the island and admire its forest of fruit trees and fauna like ducks and peacocks as you stroll through the garden.

Where to stay in Krka National Park

Accommodation within the park is quite limited. But there are nearby towns that have a plethora of hotels and lodges for you to stay in. 

Šibenik is one of these towns – its bohemian vibes and medieval architecture draw many overnight stays. Here are some options:

• Bellevue Hotel – Superior City Hotel – Wake up to spectacular seafront views at this 4-star hotel. Enjoy a relaxing treatment at the spa, or opt for a Finnish or Turkish sauna. Book your stay here.

• Heritage Hotel Life Palace – Step back in time at this antique-filled boutique hotel. Spend time in the jacuzzi or walking through the gardens. Book your stay here.

Day 8 of 10 days in Croatia: Discover the best of Split

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, and the biggest along the Dalmatian Coast. 

This quintessential coastal city boasts a Mediterranean vibe with a laid-back atmosphere and the friendliest locals. 

Here are some top attractions to check out for your day in Split:

Walking tour around Split

There are tons of historical and cultural attractions speckled across Split. 

From the Old Town to the bustling Riva boardwalk, you’ll find plenty of ways to immerse yourself in this lovely city and its attractions.

Riva Promenade

Start your Split walking tour along the Riva Promenade, lined with palm trees and colorful buildings. 

The 820-foot-long boardwalk boasts numerous eateries, souvenir shops, and scenic views of the Adriatic Sea. 

Diocletian’s Palace

Your next stop is the famous Diocletian’s Palace. This ancient Roman palace boasts incredible medieval architecture and is the former retirement residence of the Roman emperor Diocletian.

Golden Gate

The last stop on your walking tour is the Golden Gate. It’s the biggest and grandest of four entrance gates to Diocletian’s Palace. 

Take a day trip to the Blue Cave

For the second day of your time in Split; you’ll be heading off into the Adriatic Sea for an adventure at the Blue Cave Grotto. 

Take an organized tour of the Blue Cave and five islands for a day of swimming and snorkeling. 

Tip: Combine this Blue Cave excursion with an island hopping tour, and get to visit local picturesque fishing villages along the archipelago.

Where to stay in Split

As the largest coastal city in Croatia, Split is home to a variety of hotels, typically found along the famous Dalmatian Coast. 

Here are some options to consider: 

• Radisson Blu Resort & Spa – Get the best hotel amenities, including an indoor and outdoor pool, at this 5-star hotel. The rooms feature expansive glass windows, giving you stunning ocean views. Book your stay here.

• Central Square Heritage Hotel – Dotted with antique furniture, gilded ceilings, and brown wooden floors, this 4-star hotel boasts a medieval vibe and incredible city views. Book your stay here.

• Villa Split Heritage Hotel – Located in a 10th-century Romanesque landmark, Villa Split Heritage Hotel is a 4-star accommodation in the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. They offer a nice breakfast, private parking, and beautifully decorated rooms. Book your stay here.

Day 9 and 10 of 10 days in Croatia: Explore Dubrovnik’s best highlights and Hvar Island

When embarking on a Croatia road trip along the Dalmatian Coast, many struggle to choose a home base between Split and Dubrovnik – which is a fair challenge. 

But we argue that spending time in both coastal cities is a must. 

Spend the last two days of your Croatia itinerary exploring Dubrovnik. The city is brimming with well-preserved medieval buildings and museums. 

Day 9: Dubrovnik Old Town

Known for its towering city walls, Dubrovnik boasts an incredible sea of medieval homes with red terracotta roofs. 

Dubrovnik’s city walls encircle the Old Town and act as a barrier between the city and the sea. The city also has incredible spots to swim, like Banje beach.

Start your one day in Dubrovnik, marveling at the city walls. It takes about two hours to loop around the city walls. 

During your walk, you’ll stumble upon some of the city’s top attractions, like the Church of St. Ignatius, Rector’s Palace, and Lovrijenac, on the west harbor.

Tip: If you’d like to see Dubrovnik’s town walls from a great vantage point, climb to the top of Minceta Tower for sweeping views of the city. Alternatively, you can book a cable car ride to take in panoramic views.

Note: This is such a beautiful place. We suggest you extend your trip and spend about three days in Dubrovnik if you have more time.

Day 10: Take a day trip to Hvar Island

Boat trips to Hvar Town are some of the best day trips from Dubrovnik that everyone should take. 

This resort town also boasts 13th-century town walls and is dotted with numerous vineyards, secluded coves, and small islands that can be explored via boat rides.

There are tons of things you can do in Hvar Town, from swimming at the stunning beaches and participating in watersports to walking around St. Stephen’s Square. 

Some other popular sights you should check out in Hvar Town include the Cathedral of St. Stephen and Španjola Fortress.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik Old Town and Hvar Island

If you take our advice and extend your entire trip to Dubrovnik by one or two days, you’ll need a comfortable and easily accessible place to stay. 

The same goes for visiting islands in Hvar; you’ll need a home base in Hvar Town.

Here are some options to consider:

• Scalini Palace – Situated in the heart of Dubrovnik, this cozy studio apartment boasts bare brick walls and beamed ceilings. Enjoy breakfast on the terrace overlooking the historic city center. Book your stay here.

• Heritage Hotel Park Hvar – Modern, spacious, and full of character, this 4-star hotel in Hvar Town boasts a verdant garden dotted with colorful flowers. You’ll love having meals on the tree-covered terrace with ocean views. Book your stay here.

Read: Croatia Travel Guide

Alternate Croatia itinerary 10 days (without a car)

• Day 1 and 2 of Croatia itinerary: Arrive and explore Zagreb. Stay here for 2 or 3 nights.
• Day 3 of Croatia itinerary: Spend the day at Plitvice Lakes National Park (day trip or day tour). You can also book a one way transfer to Split after visiting Plitvice Lakes
• Day 4 of Croatia itinerary: Explore the town of Split. Stay overnight
• Day 5 of Croatia itinerary: Day trip to Zadar from Split
• Day 6 of Croatia itinerary: Day trip to Krka National Park from Split
• Day 7 of Croatia itinerary: Travel to Dubrovnik, and explore. Stay here for the remainder of your trip
• Day 8 Croatia itinerary: Day trip to nearby Lokrum Island and beach time in Dubrovnik
• Day 9 of Croatia itinerary: Day trip to Mljet National Park from Dubrovnik (day tours or direct ferries available)
• Day 10 of Croatia itinerary: Korčula and Pelješac Wine Tasting – Day Tour from Dubrovnik

Packing for your 10-day Croatia Trip

When visiting an amazing country such as Croatia, you have to pack the right items to enjoy a great vacation. 

• Lightweight waterproof jacket: A lightly lined waterproof jacket is a must when you travel to Croatia. You will find this super handy in the evenings, on hikes, on road trips, etc. In the winter, pack a warmer parka instead, to stay warm and toasty. 
• Comfortable walking shoes: Pack and wear a comfortable pair of walking shoes (or hiking shoes) – you will need them on day trips, on the road, in cities, in national parks, and beyond. Here is my favorite one from KEEN
• Pants and leggings: Carry 2-3 pairs of comfortable leggings and jeans/pants. I always travel with my Lululemon leggings
• Tops/shirts: Pack 3-5 lightweight T-shirts for layering or wear them as is when it’s warm
• Dress: Wear flowy dresses in the summer months – they are easy to pack and carry too. Pack at least 3 of them to wear in different locations 🙂
• Swimsuit: When visiting in the summer months, a swimsuit is a must as you can swim. Some of the hotels listed in this guide also have a nice swimming pool where you can take a dip after a long day of sightseeing. Here is my favorite one
• Reusable water bottle: A reusable water bottle is always handy when you are out and about in Croatia
• Travel Insurance: Don’t forget to buy travel insurance to cover the duration of your trip for flight delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies. Get quotes from Safety Insurance here

Perfect 10 Days in Croatia Itinerary | Wrapped Up

This 10-day Croatia itinerary is your ticket to exploring one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Balkans. In recent years, Croatia’s tourism has exploded, thanks to its breathtaking medieval cities and stunning turquoise blue beaches.

From inland Croatia to the dazzling Dalmatian Coasts, you’ll get to explore this beautiful country and its top tourist attractions. 

Getting a rental car is the best way to get from one major city to the next, except for when you’re island hopping – you’ll take boat rides for this.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and prepare to explore Croatia – the land of a thousand islands.

Read more of our Balkan travel guides:

• Balkans itinerary: Perfect 2-week Balkans itinerary | Balkan road trip
• Slovenia: 7-day Slovenia itinerary | One day in Ljubljana | Lake Bled in winter

Pin: Visit Croatia | Croatia 10 day itinerary

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