Welcome to our Croatia 17 day travel guide! As a family, we believe that exploring new places together creates some of the most cherished memories. Croatia, with its stunning coastline, historic cities, and warm hospitality, was the perfect destination for our European adventure.
In this blog, I'll take you through the vibrant cities we visited, from the ancient walls of Dubrovnik to the charming streets of Split and the serene beauty of the Dalmatian Islands. We’ll share our favorite family-friendly activities, including unforgettable boat trips, exploring hidden beaches, and discovering the rich history that makes Croatia so unique. Copy our itinerary or pick and choose your favorite locations according to your length of stay. Tons of pictures included to help you envision your own Croatia trip.
We’ve also got tips on where to eat, from delicious local seafood spots to cozy cafes, as well as recommendations for family-friendly accommodations that made our stay comfortable and memorable. Whether you’re planning a trip to Croatia or just dreaming of one, we hope our experiences inspire your own family adventure. This has truly been one of our favorite European cities to day.
Exploring Croatia: Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is a stunning city in Southern Croatia that perfectly blends rich history with breathtaking natural beauty. Enclosed by its iconic medieval walls built between the 12th and 17th centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Croatia's past with its well-preserved baroque buildings, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks all set along its picturesque setting along the Adriatic Sea. Everywhere we looked was picture perfect with some great shops and tons of delicious food, pastries, coffee and wine. Also very popular for its Game of Thrones filming sights.
Where To Stay:
Airbnb Katarina's Place
Walking distance from old Dubrovnik, in a great area and with spectacular balcony and views. Host was amazing! 4 guests, 2 bedrooms, 2 beds, 1 bath
Places To VIsit:
Walking the walls (tickets purchased on site)- allowed us to experience the best views of all of Dubrovnik. Do early in the morning or at sunset to avoid excess crowds.
Buza Bar for cliff jumping/sunset. Literally have to walk through a wall to get the views
Ferry to Lokrum Island (tickets purchased on site)- take a hike, take a dip in the blue Adriatic Sea, explore some Game of Thrones photo ops, kayak or simply walk and enjoy a meal in this beautiful island
Kayak to cave and to see walls from the ocean- such an amazing experience. You can book this activity here https://www.getyourguide.com/dubrovnik-l513/dubrovnik-3-hour-sunset-sea-kayaking-tour-t146145/?partner_id=YHXAIMQ&utm_medium=online_publisher
Breakfast at Gradska Kovana Arsenal- delish and prime views of the harbor lookout
Meal, coffee, with people watching at Cafe Festival. Beautiful at day and night
Italian Pizza at Pizzeria Mirakul- It was amazing. Visited twice during our visit
Black seafood risotto at Tezora- traditional Dubrovnik meal
Gelato at Peppinos
Pasjaca Beach- Thought to be one of the most gorgeous natural beaches in the entire Adriatic and I agree! Crystal clear waters and a picturesque pebble shore. It's about a 35 minute drive from Dubrovnik but worth it. Located at the food of the steep Konavle cliffs beneath the village of Popoviei. There is parking but no restrooms available. Also important to keep in mind there is a steep incline on your return back to the car but completely doable. This is an absolute must visit!
Tip: Be inside the old town by 7am to get to admire the town free of tour groups and crowds for at least 2 hours, specially during the summer time.
Split
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant blend of ancient history and modern life, centered around the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. FYI this was our personal favorite visit.
This sprawling palace complex, built for the Roman Emperor Diocletian, now forms the heart of the city, with its labyrinth of narrow streets filled with lively cafes, shops, and historic landmarks. Split’s waterfront promenade, the Riva, is a bustling spot where locals and visitors alike gather to enjoy the stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. The city is alive all day and night!
The city’s rich history is complemented by its beautiful beaches, nearby islands, and a lively cultural scene, making Split an ideal destination for families looking to experience both the past and present of Croatia in one captivating location.
Tips: Highly recommend staying in side the city if possible. There's several Airbnb's and hotels to choose from. Where we stayed down below.
There's no parking inside the city so nearest parking is a 9 minute walk and about $38 a day. Make sure you budget for this.
Where To Stay:
Amazing cozy studio in the center of split with the best views. Clean, cute and so convenient. Pull out stairs to additional bed, bathroom, kitchen, dining table and washer and dryer.
Places To VIsit:
Climb the St.Domnius Bell Tower
Explore the St. Domnius Cathedral
Riznica Splitske Treasury museum
All of the above can be purchased together and in person in the main city square.
5 Islands tour- The tour offers a thrilling speedboat journey that took us to the mesmerizing Blue Cave, along with stops at stunning spots like Hvar and the Blue Lagoon. This adventure-packed day features crystal-clear waters, hidden bays, and vibrant island towns, perfect for exploring and relaxing. If you get seasick pre-medicate or maybe look into another tour as the evening water tends to be a bit more choppy.
Visit the outdoor market. Buy fresh and local fruits, produce, cheese, meats, bread and local wine for the perfect self made lunch
Climb to the Marjan overlook- Bring comfortable shoes and water.
Enjoy outdoor music and drinks at Lvxor Bar
Kasjuni Beach- 15 minute drive from old town. There is limited parking so take an uber or arrive early. There are restaurants and restrooms available at the beach. Very family friendly
Bokeria Kitchen and wine- mid priced and so delicious for the whole family
Konoba Laganini- Beautiful scenery and delicious food. Perfect for a more formal dinner
Kantun Paulina- local and so affordable. Order the specialty. It's the oldest burgers in Croatia and seen on "Somebody Feed Phil". The hype is real. An absolute must. Found no others like these in all Croatia.
Sibenik
Šibenik, a charming coastal town in Croatia, is a hidden gem known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The town’s medieval streets, fortresses, and beautiful harbor offer a serene yet vibrant atmosphere, perfect for families looking to explore Croatia's cultural heritage away from the more tourist-heavy spots specially after having visited heavy tourist areas.
Where to stay:
Armerun Hotel located below the oldest Croatian historic city ramparts with stunning views. Beautiful hotel, great restaurants and walking distance to it all. You can take a look and book on the link down below
Places To Visit:
Its well preserved fortresses are a must visit. Not only can you admire the exterior but can explore the interior as well. Plus the views from atop are incredible. A must visit is St. Michael's Fortress and from this fortress you can also see St.John's Fort. You can purchase tickets on site
The stunning and unique Cathedral of St. Jame's is renowned for its unique architectural blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Constructed entirely of stone, it features intricate sculptures and a remarkable dome. Possibly one of my personal favorites from all we say and visited in Croatia.
Culinary scene is incredible. One of our absolute favorites was Restonanno 4. It's a hidden little gem with the best food and no crowds. We had the restaurants all to ourselves and it was incredible.
30 minute drive to KRKA National Park perfect for a day trip. More on that down below.
Krka National Park
Krka National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder in Croatia, renowned for its stunning waterfalls, lush greenery, and crystal-clear waters. Located near Šibenik, it was the perfect day visit after leaving Sibenik.
We parked at the city of Skradin and took a 20 min boat ride to the Skradinsky Buk. Boat passes are sold every hour on the hour from 8am-6pm.
Skradinsky Buk are the most famous and the largest waterfalls in Krka National Park. It consist of a series of cascades over travertine barriers, stretching approximately 800 meters long. It has a drop of around 45 meters through 17 steps. We took a small walk/hike that allowed us to admire the falls from different views and across a wooden bridge. Restaurants and restrooms are in the same area as the falls. This park is a paradise for nature lovers and families alike. If you're visiting for just a day like we did and can only choose one activity, this should be it.
Zadar
Zadar, a historic coastal city in Croatia, is a perfect blend of ancient and modern attractions. Known for its well-preserved Roman and Venetian ruins, Zadar's Old Town is a maze of charming streets, ancient churches, and lively squares. The city is famous for its unique modern installations, such as the Sea Organ, which plays music using the waves, and the Sun Salutation, a solar-powered light show at sunset. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning Adriatic views, Zadar offers a captivating mix of the old and the new, making it a fascinating destination for families exploring Croatia. Everything we did was in close proximity and walking distance from each other.
Where To Stay:
This is a "don't judge a book by its cover" kind of place. Would we stay here again, absolutely! Apartments & Rooms Mareta Exclusive
Apartment was beautiful, well decorated and great service.
Places To VIsit:
The Sea Organ. The sound is amazing and so relaxing to listen to. We sat here for hours and came back to enjoy the sunset as well.
Sun Salutation light show
Cathedral of St. Anastasia
Church of St.Donatus
Walk the outdoor Roman Forum
Walk the pier or take a swim. No lifeguards available or beach area.
Wine Garden- beautiful outdoor area. Great for a drink and some appetizers. It’s so cute in there with its open style patio.
Tons of restaurants to choose from
Plitvicka National Park
Plitvička National Park, located in Central Croatia is Croatia’s oldest and largest national park. It's a breathtaking natural paradise known for its cascading lakes, dense forests, and stunning waterfalls. It was like a scene from an enchanting fairy storybook. It's like nothing my eyes had ever laid eyes on.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is made up of 16 interconnected lakes, each with its own distinct color, ranging from turquoise to emerald green, connected by a series of waterfalls and streams. The park offers numerous walking and hiking trails, wooden footbridges, and boat rides, allowing all visitors to explore the scenic beauty. There are welll-marked routes ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, providing access to different parts of the park.
It's a perfect visit for families and nature enthusiasts. Plitvička National Park offers an unforgettable experience in one of Europe’s most beautiful natural settings.
Where To Stay:
Yeti Cabin Airbnb. Imagine staying in a fairy cabin surrounded by the sound of the river, tons of trees, and some picturesques views. Such a gem and so close to the entrance of the park. Book down below
Tips For Your Visit
Start at entrance 1 of the park
Do program "C" (allows you to explore lower and upper lakes, get on the ferry boat included with ticket, and on the tram)
Purchase your park tickets ahead of time and timed entry is needed.
Start at 7am if possible for less crowds
You can find food and drinks in the park but it's recommended you pack your own
Zagreb
Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, is a city that beautifully blends historic charm with a modern, lively atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets and medieval architecture, particularly in the Upper Town, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past, while the bustling Lower Town is filled with cafes, shops, and cultural attractions. Zagreb is known for its green spaces, such as the lush Zrinjevac Park, and its vibrant arts scene, with museums, galleries, and street art around every corner. Whether you're exploring the historic sights, enjoying the local cuisine, or soaking up the city's dynamic energy, Zagreb is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.
Where To Stay:
Agravista Main Square Residence. Location was amazing, overlooking the main square. The apartments was absolutely beautiful and so incredibly spacious. Highly recommend!
Places To VIsit:
Croatian National Theatre
Lotrscak Tower- A historic 13th-century tower in Zagreb that offers panoramic views of the city and houses the iconic Grič cannon, fired daily at noon. Closes at 7pm
The funicular in downtown Zagreb- is used to transport passengers between the Lower Town and the Upper Town, offering a quick and scenic way to navigate the city's steep hill. It’s a popular and convenient mode of transportation, as well as a charming ride with great views of Zagreb
Church of St. Mark- 13th century medieval-style Catholic Church. Can only see from the outside
Stone Gate- A historic medieval gate that now serves as a revered shrine featuring a surviving painting of the Virgin Mary, which is a focal point for prayer and reflection
Cathedral of Zagreb- Huge Roman Catholic Cathedral
Market Dolac- outdoor market
Central Square- Has a tram stop, cafe's, and iconic statues
L'oro di Napoli- Amazing Italian restaurants with great pizzas and lasagna
Layali Lebanese Restaurant- Halal Restaurant
General Travel Tips
We used WhatsApp to communicate with our Airbnb hosts. That seemed to be the easiest way to contact everyone. Make sure and download before you visit.
Bring a universal power converter for charging your phones or electronic devices
Bring comfy walking shoes and expect to do lots of walking to explore
Highly recommend getting a car rental at the airport to comfortably travel at your own leisure. It really is the best way to see everything you want.
Try and pack lightly. Old town accommodations do NOT have elevators so you must carry it all up and down stairs yourself.
Book Accommodations in Advance especially during peak tourist season (summer), popular destinations can get crowded. Booking accommodations ahead of time can help ensure you get the best options and rates.
Respect Local Customs be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting religious sites. Dress modestly when entering churches or temples.
Conclusion
As our Croatian adventure comes to a close, we're left with incredible memories from each city and experience. From the historic charm of Dubrovnik and Split to the natural beauty of Krka National Park and Plitvička Lakes, Croatia has offered our family a journey filled with wonder and discovery. We've savored delicious local cuisine, explored breathtaking landscapes, and enjoyed cozy accommodations that made every moment special. Whether you’re planning a family trip or just dreaming of one, we hope our experiences inspire you to embark on your own Croatian adventure. We truly can't recommend it enough. We felt incredibly safe everywhere we visited and the people were so warm and charming. Thank you for joining us on this unforgettable journey through Croatia, where every city and activity added a unique piece to our travel journey. We would not change a single thing about this experience.
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Talk soon!
