From ancient walled cities to turquoise island waters, Croatia truly offers the best of the Mediterranean—without the crowds of Italy or the prices of France. With its sapphire waters, walled cities, and slow island life, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to before you’ve even left.
Here’s our 8-day adventure from Dubrovnik to Split to Hvar and back again, complete with city strolls, sunset beaches, and a splash of Game of Thrones magic.
🇭🇷 Our Croatia Trip at a Glance
- 📍 Destinations: Dubrovnik (2 days), Split (2 days), Hvar (4 nights)
- 🗓️ Best time to visit: May–October (we went in early June—absolute perfection)
- 🚗 Getting around: We rented a car in Dubrovnik and honestly? Best decision ever. It gave us total freedom, especially for the coastal drives and ferry transfers.
- 💸 Budget tips:
Croatia can suit almost any travel style—whether you’re on a budget or splurging on boutique stays. Airbnb options are everywhere, and many are gorgeous. - We chose to treat ourselves with luxury resorts, so if you’re after a more budget-friendly or Airbnb-focused itinerary, check out some of the amazing guides out there geared toward that style.
🇭🇷 Things to Know Before You Visit Croatia
1. 💶 Croatia uses the Euro now
As of January 2023, Croatia adopted the euro (€) and joined the Schengen Zone. No more currency exchanges or border checks within most of the EU. Also, credit cards were accepted most of the places.
2. 🛥️ Ferries are your friend
Want to hop islands? Ferries are essential. Jadrolinija and Krilo are the two major operators. Book in advance in summer—especially Split ↔ Hvar. Additionally, ferries are mostly on time, therefore taking ferries to hop islands is very reliable.
3. 💧Tap water is safe
Croatian tap water is clean and drinkable—even on most islands. Bring a reusable bottle and skip the plastic.
4. 🚖 Taxis = expensive | Apps = cheaper
Regular taxis can be pricey. Use Bolt or Uber in cities like Dubrovnik and Split for better rates. On islands, prepare to pay more or rent a scooter.
5. 🧳 Pack for cobblestones + sun
The old towns are stunning… and full of uneven stone streets. Bring comfy walking shoes (skip the heels) + layers for breezy evenings. And don’t forget sunscreen—Croatia blazes in summer.
6. 🕰️ Sundays are slooow
Many local shops and restaurants close or run on shorter hours on Sundays, especially outside tourist zones. Plan ahead if you need groceries or essentials.
7. ☀️ Peak season = July & August
That’s when it’s busiest and hottest. Best time to visit? May–June or early September for fewer crowds and ideal weather.
8. 💬 English is widely spoken
Especially in coastal towns and tourist areas. Still, a few words of Croatian go a long way:
- Hvala = thank you
- Molim = please / you’re welcome
- Dobar dan = good day
9. 🚗 Getting Around Croatia: What to Know
The roads in Croatia are in great condition and signage is easy to follow—driving here is straightforward and stress-free. That said, parking in old towns can be tricky and expensive, so plan accordingly if you’re staying within historic centers. Most hotels have an onsite parking, and there are also parking garages in old town that you can use to park the car.
We rented a car in Dubrovnik and it ended up being one of the best decisions of the trip. The drive to Split was scenic and simple, and having a car made island hopping to Hvar super easy—we took the Jadrolinija car ferry from Hvar back to Dubrovnik with zero hassle.
On Hvar, having our own car gave us the freedom to explore beyond just Hvar Town. We were able to visit charming spots like Jelsa, and pop back and forth to Hvar Town from our hotel in Stari Grad whenever we felt like it.
🚍 Not renting a car? No problem. Croatia has a solid public transport network—buses are reliable and widely available, especially between in cities like Dubrovnik and Split.
📍Day 1–2: Dubrovnik – The Pearl of the Adriatic
We based ourselves in Dubrovnik for the first two days of the trip, and absolutely loved staying at the Valamar President Hotel. Located slightly outside the Old Town, this seaside hotel is a gem if you’re looking for a peaceful retreat with easy access to the main sights. The sea-facing rooms offered breathtaking views of the Adriatic, and the breakfast buffet was really good too.
We stayed in one of their suites, which was gorgeous, but I imagine the standard rooms are just as comfortable and well-designed. If you’re renting a car, parking is easy, but even if you’re not, there’s a bus stop right outside the hotel where buses run to Old Town every 15 minutes. Super convenient and budget-friendly.
During our time in Dubrovnik, we explored Stradun, climbed the City Walls during golden hour, and visited key sites like Fort Lovrijenac, Rector’s Palace, Banje Beach, and the Franciscan Monastery. We also did a Game of Thrones tour, which I highly recommend if you are a Game of Thrones fan, since they take you to all the sites and share some great behind the scenes stories from the sets of the show. This is the tour that we took..
For a quick escape from the crowds, take the ferry to Lokrum Island—it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and light hiking. And for sunset, head up to Mount Srđ—the views over the Old Town and Adriatic Sea are unreal.
Now, a quick hot take: Buža Bar is overrated. Sure, it’s cool if you’re into cliff jumping, but if you’re just going for the sunset and a drink, there are better, less touristy spots in Old Town with equally gorgeous views and way less hype. (I talk more about that—and show the hotel—in my YouTube vlog if you want a visual walkthrough.)
What is worth the hype though is the Dubrvonik pass. Buy the Dubrovnik Pass! We got the 1-day Dubrovnik Pass, which gave us access to several top attractions—including the city walls, museums, and public transport—and it ended up saving us both time and money.
🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink in Dubrovnik
Our favorite restaurants, wine bars, bars, and a sweet treat spot!
Vegetarian travelers, take note: Finding fully vegetarian restaurants in Dubrovnik can be a bit of a challenge—but with some digging, there are plenty of amazing spots that offer solid veggie options alongside traditional dishes.
🌿 Vegetarian-Friendly Favorites
- Taj Mahal (Old Town) – Bosnian cuisine, not Indian! This was our go-to. They have great vegetarian options, and my husband loved the chicken.
- Pizzeria Oliva – A casual favorite with good vegetarian pizzas, pasta, and fresh salads. Quick, tasty, and affordable.
- Pizzeria Castro – Another solid pizza spot, great for a relaxed bite in between sightseeing.
- Holy Burek – A must-try Croatian street food classic! Burek is a flaky, savory pastry traditionally filled with meat, potato, or cheese. I tried the cheese burek and absolutely loved it—crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside. It’s perfect for grabbing on the go, whether you’re heading to the beach or strolling through Old Town. Simple, satisfying, and super affordable.
🍷Wine Bars & Scenic Sips
- D’Vino Wine Bar – If you love wine, don’t miss this spot. Great selection of Croatian wines and knowledgeable staff. Perfect pre-dinner hangout.
- Galerie Bar – A low-key local favorite known for fun bucket cocktails and a relaxed vibe. Off the main drag and worth the wander.
- Fontana Bar – Just off Stradun, this place serves some of the cheapest drinks in Old Town. No frills, still charming.
🍴 More Dining Options
- Gradska Kavana Arsenal – Lovely terrace in the heart of Old Town with a more upscale feel. Great for a slow lunch or sunset dinner.
- Prora (Hotel Excelsior) – Elegant and seaside. Mostly meat-based and currently closed when we visited, but a beautiful setting if it’s open.
🍦 Sweet Spot: Peppino’s Gelato
- Peppino’s Gelato – A must-stop for dessert lovers! This artisanal gelato shop has two locations in Old Town and serves a delicious mix of classic and creative flavors like Stracciatella, Pistachio, Chocomenta, and Mango Sorbet. Great for a mid-day treat or after-dinner stroll.
📍Day 3: Pelješac Peninsula
On Day 3, we took a detour from Dubrovnik and headed to the Pelješac Peninsula, about two hours away, to visit Korta Katarina Winery—and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. This region is known as the heart of Croatian wine country, and we learned that some of Croatia’s best wines come from here. Korta Katarina, perched beautifully above the Adriatic, is not just a winery but also a stunning boutique hotel. We spent the afternoon tasting local wines and cheeses with jaw-dropping sea views as our backdrop—it was pure magic. While Croatia may not yet rival Italy or France in global wine reputation, it’s definitely on its way, and places like this prove why.
If you’re driving from Dubrovnik to Split, this is the perfect spot to stop for a few hours or even stay overnight. Other wineries in the region worth checking out include Miloš Winery, Saints Hills, and Grgić Vina—each offering its own unique charm and varietals. Don’t forget to check out my YouTube vlog for a full walkthrough. The wineries are laid back with some great wines, and Korta Katarina had such a chic vibe along with some great wine and gorgeous views.
📍 Day 3–4: Exploring Split, Croatia
After our scenic drive up the Dalmatian coast, we landed in Split, Croatia’s vibrant second-largest city, where ancient Roman architecture meets modern Mediterranean charm. We checked into the Hotel Ambassador, a sleek and contemporary waterfront stay just steps from the Riva promenade. Our room overlooked the marina, and breakfast on the terrace was so refreshing in the morning.
Split is packed with incredible things to do, especially if you’re into history and architecture. Start at the Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Europe. It’s not just a monument—it’s the heart of the city, woven into everyday life. While inside the palace, don’t miss the St. Domnius Cathedral and its striking Bell Tower.
Climbing the 180+ steps to the top of the bell tower rewards you with sweeping, panoramic views of Split Old Town and the shimmering Adriatic Sea. We skipped the climb this time, but if you’re up for a bit of a workout and love a good viewpoint, it’s definitely worth doing! Just below the cathedral is an underground market area—fun fact: it used to be the palace’s torture chamber!
Nearby, you’ll find People’s Square, a charming plaza perfect for grabbing a coffee or glass of wine, and the Peristyle Square, another iconic Game of Thrones filming location.
For more laid-back vibes, stroll along the Riva promenade—great for sunset drinks, people-watching, and that breezy coastal energy. While it’s a beautiful spot for a cocktail, we recommend avoiding the restaurants here, as they’re a bit too touristy for the price.
If you’re up for a bit of a walk (don’t worry, it’s more scenic stroll than strenuous), head up to Marjan Hill. The views from the top are stunning—sweeping panoramas of Split, the sea, and nearby islands. Bring water and your camera. If you’re craving beach time, check out Kasjuni Beach (quiet, scenic, and just outside the city) or Bačvice Beach, which is more central and popular with locals. And if time allows, consider booking a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon (Krknjaši Bay) near Trogir—a magical spot with crystal-clear turquoise water and chill island vibes.
Split was the perfect mix of ancient ruins, cultural experiences, and coastal fun—and it made us even more excited for our next stop: Hvar.
🍽️ Where to Eat & Drink in Split, Croatia:
- Gourmet Bar Basta – Beautifully located right on the water, perfect for pizza and cocktails with a view. The interior is also stunning!
- Pizzeria Portas – Cozy pizzeria known for authentic, stone-baked pies.
- Pizzeria Gust – A local favorite with affordable and tasty pizzas.
- Sanctuary – Craving Mexican food in Split? This is your spot.
- Villa Spiza – Intimate and charming spot serving homemade pasta and vegetarian options.
- Martas Veggie Fusion – 100% vegan with burgers, bowls, and more.
- Mazzgoon – Outdoor garden seating and a solid menu with veggie-friendly dishes.
- MakaMaka – Great for healthy breakfasts, açai bowls, smoothies, and colorful vibes
- BOKUN Bar and Kitchen – Best easy brunch right on the Riva; casual and delicious.
- Lvxor Split – Grab your morning coffee with a front-row view of Peristyle Square.
- D16 Coffee – Specialty coffee with minimalist vibes.
- Kava2 – Great for both cocktails and coffee—don’t miss their old fashioned.
- Cafe Bar Riva – Classic stop for sunset drinks (note: no food).
- Club Ghetto – Hidden bar with an artsy, alternative crowd.
- Mr. Pozzetti – Rich flavors and creamy texture, a must-try gelato stop.
- Bili San – Underrated gem for gelato.
- Pandora Greenbox– Vegan place with amazing food
📍 Day 4–8: Hvar, Croatia – Island Bliss Between Stari Grad & the Sea
We spent four magical days on Hvar Island, and it truly was the perfect amount of time to unwind and soak in the stunning Adriatic coastline. We took a Jadrolinija car ferry from Split to Hvar, which made the journey seamless—especially since we had rented a car all the way from Dubrovnik. If you’re planning a road trip through Croatia, this route is a dream. Having a car on Hvar gave us total flexibility to explore not just Hvar Town and Stari Grad, but also charming nearby villages like Jelsa and Vrboska, which are often overlooked but totally worth a visit. If you’re looking to truly experience the island’s beauty at your own pace, renting a car is a must.
We checked into the Maslina Resort, a luxurious, design-forward eco-resort nestled in peaceful Stari Grad. The resort is truly beautiful—everything from the serene beachfront setting to the stunning suites and warm service felt next level. Highly recommend it if you’re looking for a relaxing yet elevated stay on the island.
Our days were a perfect mix of beach time, exploring the charming cobbled streets of Stari Grad, and heading into Hvar Town for evening dinners and sunset views. One of our favorite adventures was a full-day boat trip to the Pakleni Islands, where you’ll find crystal-clear water, secret coves, and amazing spots to swim and snorkel.
🍽️ Best Restaurants in Hvar & Stari Grad
While I don’t have a set list of must-visit restaurants in Hvar, part of the charm was simply wandering through the cobblestone streets of Hvar Town and Stari Grad and picking places based on the vibe. There’s no shortage of restaurants, cafés, and bars—each with its own unique ambiance and coastal charm. That said, one experience I highly recommend is wine tasting in Jelsa. We visited Tomić Winery, a family-run estate with deep roots in Hvar’s winemaking tradition. Their guided tasting is a fantastic way to learn about local grape varieties and enjoy some truly excellent Croatian wine in a beautiful, rustic setting.
🏖️ Favorite Beach Clubs in Hvar
- Beach Club Hvar – The most luxurious option, just a short walk from Hvar Town. Think classic Mediterranean décor in blue and white with top-tier service.
- Laganini Lounge Bar & Fish House – Located on Palmizana Island (Pakleni Islands), this dreamy boho spot offers chilled beats, canopy-covered seating, and one of the best seafood restaurants in the region.
- Falko Bar – A laid-back, family-run beach bar about 30 minutes on foot from Hvar Town. Hammocks, cushions, cacti, and cozy vibes make this a favorite for a relaxed afternoon.
And that’s a wrap on our unforgettable Croatia adventure! From the historic charm of Dubrovnik, to the coastal vibes of Split, and the dreamy island days in Hvar—this trip had the perfect balance of culture, relaxation, and breathtaking views.
Have you been to Croatia? I’d love to hear your favorite spots, hidden gems, or travel tips—drop them in the comments below!
And if you’re planning your own Croatian getaway (or just want to relive ours), make sure to check out my vlog for behind-the-scenes moments from the trip. 💙🌊🇭🇷
Until the next adventure—happy travels!
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