7-Day Croatia Itinerary: What to See and Do from Split to Dubrovnik

Written By Elle May

Discover the Best of Croatia - Your Guide to Split, Krka, Plitvice Lakes, Hvar & Dubrovnik

When I was planning my trip to Croatia, I imagined stunning coastlines, romantic outdoor restaurants, breathtaking waterfalls, charming old towns, cozy cafés, and phenomenal food. I can tell you first hand that the real thing lived up to my expectations and in some cases surpassed them! After all the research — and plenty of exploring once there, I put together this blog to share the my favorite parts of Croatia. Creating it has brought me so much joy, and I hope reading it brings you just as much happiness while helping you plan your own unforgettable adventure to Croatia.

Croatia was named Europe’s No. 1 Travel Destination for 2025—and honestly, it deserves that recognition. This country completely blew us away. In just one week, you can soak up everything from stunning national parks and charming old towns to jaw-dropping coastlines. We stretched our trip to 10 days so we could really enjoy Hvar, Split, and Dubrovnik, but if you’ve only got a week, this itinerary still hits all the highlights. You might want to skip Hvar if you're tight on time, but it’s a tough call—every spot has something special.

He are best places to visit in Croatia in 7 days Split, Krka National Park, Plitvice Lakes, Hvar, and Dubrovnik. Plus our favorite things to do and top dining recommendations along the way.

Day 1: Arrival in Split

I recommend flying into Split Airport, which offers great options for international connections. You can either fly in and out of Split or fly into Split and depart from Dubrovnik to avoid the 3+ hour return drive. Start your journey in Split, Croatia’s vibrant second-largest city, where ancient ruins meet European charm. I personally don’t think you need more than two nights here, unless you’re a huge city person. I recommend spending more time in Dubrovnik, as there’s more to see and do there.

What to See & Do in Split

  • Diocletian’s Palace – Wander through this Roman emperor’s palace-turned-city-center. Don't miss the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. This place also comes alive at night where you can enjoy live music and a glass of wine on the steps. Great for people watching!

  • Riva Promenade – Enjoy a seaside stroll or stop for a drink or brunch with a view. We had brunch here and sipped coffee in the sun while people watching. Yes, it's more touristy and a bit pricier, but the views make it worthwhile. If you're on a budget, grab a drink here, then head into Old Town for more affordable dining.

  • Marjan Hill – Hike or taxi to the top for panoramic views of the Adriatic.

  • The Klis Fortress -This castle was nothing short of impressive! It is perched on a mountain outside the city, this medieval fortress sits above the village of Klis and once served as both a defensive stronghold and the historic seat of Croatian kings. It was even a filming location for Game of Thrones!

  • Stella Catica  - An olive museum with a traditional food & mediterranean garden.

The Klis Fortress & Village of Klis

Where to Eat

Quick Tips for Split, Croatia

  • Skip Riva for Food: Pretty view, but tourist prices—better options in Old Town.

  • Wear Good Shoes: Cobblestones and steps are everywhere.

  • Watch for Pickpockets: Stay alert in crowded areas.

  • Book Tours Early: Island trips and Krka tours sell out fast.

  • Use Buses or Walk: Easy to get around without a car.

  • Bring Water Shoes: Most beaches are pebbly.

  • Carry Some Cash: Not all places take cards.

Day 2: Visit Krka National Park & Drive to Plitvice

I recommend renting a car and driving to to Krka National Park(1.5-hour drive) it is on the way to Plitvice. Krka is famous for its stunning waterfalls and serene walking paths. You can also do day trips from Split to Krka and Plitvice National Park if you don’t want to drive in Croatia. Contemplating Krka vs Plitvice? A lot of travelers choose Krka over Plitvice simply because it’s closer and easier to get to—especially if you’re staying near Split. Luckily, we had time to visit both! Plitvice is much bigger and has a lot more waterfalls, with seriously breathtaking views. If you're short on time, Krka is a super convenient and beautiful option. But if you're up for a bit more adventure and hiking, Plitvice is absolutely worth the extra effort.

What to See & Do in Krka

  • Skradinski Buk Waterfall – One of the most photographed spots in Croatia. This is the hike that I did Lozovac - Skradinski Buk Waterfall.

  • Boat Tour – Undoubtedly the best way of seeing the sights of the park is with a Boat Excursion.

  • Visit Visovac Island & Roski Slap - Visovac Island is a small island with a historic monastery, accessible by boat from the park. Roški Slap is a lesser-known but beautiful series of cascading waterfalls, offering stunning views and fewer crowds.

Where to Eat

  • Alte Mühle Kristijan- Stop by a traditional konoba (tavern) near the park for local Dalmatian cuisine. Here you can have lunch with your feet dipped in the waterfall!

  • Skradin - Explore the charming town of Skradin, nestled along the Krka River and located right next to the entrance of the National Park. I would recommend getting lunch here after you do some hiking.

  • BIBICh Winery - One of my favorite spots on our trip. It is tucked away in the heart of Dalmatia, this winery is an absolute vibe. With vineyards that have been thriving for over 500 years, it’s the perfect place to sip exceptional wines in a gorgeous tasting room. They offer small bites as well as s full lunch and wine pairing. Just a quick 10-minute drive from Skradin, this spot is a must-visit! Make sure to make a reservation during the busy season.

Once you’re done exploring Krka and the surrounding areas I recommend driving the remaining 1.5 hours north the rest of the way to Plitvice. There you will spend the night, we stayed at Hotel Jezero. Good news is that this hotel is being remodeled, so your stay is bound to be better than mine was!

Day 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park - Rastoke - Return to Split

Wake up and enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Then step outside, you’re just moments away from the entrance to Plitvice Lakes. The main reason we booked Hotel Jezero was its convenient walking distance to the park.

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Plitvice is one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders. Take your time in the morning to explore the park, arriving early means fewer crowds and the best lighting for your photos. This is the hike that we did Plitvička Jezera - Labudovac - Sastavci.

Tips of Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park

Park Entry & Planning Ahead:
Everything I found online about the park was pretty confusing, so I’m going to break it down for you to make navigating your visit much easier. First you’ll need to book a specific time slot to enter the park, and I highly recommend going as early as possible to beat the crowds. There are two main entry points: Entrance 1 (Lower Lakes) and Entrance 2 (Upper Lakes). Be sure to purchase your ticket for the correct entrance. There’s parking available at both. Staying at that hotel? You can park your car there and explore the park without worrying about it.

We started our hike at Entrance 1, exploring the Lower Lakes first, then took the scenic boat ride over to Entrance 2 to explore the Upper Lakes. From there, a short return boat ride took us back toward the parking area and our hotel. You don’t have to book the boat rides once in the park it is included with your ticket purchase.

Upper vs. Lower Lakes: What’s the Difference?

Both the Upper and Lower Lakes are stunning, but in my opinion, the Upper Lakes offer the most breathtaking views in the entire park. Starting at Entrance 1 gives you a great introduction to the waterfalls and turquoise pools, but try to spend most of your day exploring the trails around the Upper Lakes.

What to Bring

There are limited food options inside the park, so I recommend bringing snacks and plenty of water, especially if you get hangry like I do! You can buy drinks in a few spots, but eateries are sparse, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Pro tip: Use the bathroom whenever you see one, because there aren’t many restrooms once you’re deep into the park. We followed a sign for a restroom that felt like it was three miles away.. Ultimately we ended up giving up because we still couldn’t find it!

Visit the Town of Rastoke - For Lunch or Dinner

I highly recommend stopping for lunch or dinner in Rastoke—a fairytale-like village just outside Plitvice Lakes. It was a fun stop to add to this day! It’s known for its waterfalls in town, wooden watermills, and whimsical charm, it’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring the park. Make sure to grab a drink right above one of the waterfalls at Vodena Ovca, a cozy café with unforgettable views. We ate at Restaurant Ambar, where we enjoyed a delicious dinner set beside the atmospheric ruins of Napoleon’s Warehouse. After you’re done exploring Rastoke start the trek south back to Split.

The town of Rastoke and the Vodena Ovca restaurant, perched atop the waterfall.

Day 4 : Wake up in Split & Ferry to Hvar

Spend your morning soaking up the charm of Split before catching a ferry to Hvar Island (about an hour ride). Hvar is renowned for its lavender fields, beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and historic beauty.

A quick note: avoid visiting Hvar in the off-season (roughly September through May). We visited in April and found that about 90% of the island was closed—it was a major disappointment. Hvar truly comes alive in the summer months, so plan accordingly to experience its full magic. If you’re visiting in the off-season, I’d suggest skipping it and going to Korcula instead. The best time to visit Croatia is definitely in the summer, but it gets pretty busy then. We loved traveling during the shoulder season—it was way less crowded, and we got to do everything we wanted without long waits.

What to See & Do in Hvar

  • Hvar Town – Explore the charming streets, main square, and waterfront.

  • Fortica Fortress – Hike up for panoramic views over the Pakleni Islands, the best place to be for a sunset.

  • Visit the Beaches – Relax at Pokonji Dol or take a boat to hidden coves. Other beautiful beaches to explore: Bonj Beach, Franciscan Monastery Beach, Zarace Beach and Dubovica Beach.

  • Tvrdalj Castle -Visit a 16th-century fortress in Stari Grad, known for its fish pond, poetic inscriptions, and peaceful garden.

  • Pakleni Islands - Take a boat tour of the Pakleni Islands for crystal-clear waters, hidden coves, and secluded beaches—perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the Adriatic sun.

  • Lacman Family Winery -A scenic drive through the hills leads to this winery, where you can enjoy six natural wines paired with homemade delicacies. The fabulous outdoor terrace offers stunning sea views.

Where to Eat & Drink

  • Oasis Specialty Coffe & Juice Bar - This was a delicious and refreshing stop, perfect for a coffee or fresh lemon ginger juice. I highly recommend enjoying your drink in the restaurant’s garden oasis.

  • Kava 37 - A cute little specialty coffee shop in Hvar. Kava serves freshly roasted espresso and filter coffees.

  • Kogo - Pizza & Pasta - We grabbed a pizza and glass of wine here. Right in the heart of Hvar town this place is perfect for people watching and lunch.

  • Junior - This intimate restaurant truly blew us away with its delicious Mediterranean cuisine, the seafood was immaculate.

  • Hvar Brewing Co. –This newer island brewery serves up craft beer, great food, and good vibes—all with stunning sunset views. It’s the perfect spot to sip and unwind.

  • Backlane Craftbar - Located in the heart of Hvar, a place where tradition meets modernity. A great place to grab a craft beer and or a special cocktail.

  • aROMA– The best gelato on the island.

Day 5-7: Hvar to Dubrovnik

Make your way to Dubrovnik. Depending on timing and season, you can take a catamaran or ferry to Dubrovnik. Dubrovnik was our favorite city that we visited with it’s ancient architecture surrounded by the Old Town walls. Dubrovnik offers so much to see and do, so we planned to stay there longer than anywhere else on this trip. And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize several places in Dubrovnik, like the Old Town, Fort Lovrijenac, and the Jesuit Staircase which were used for filming. Be sure to check out my the best restaurants in Dubrovnik that I included! The food and wine scene in Croatia is seriously next-level. My husband’s a bit of a foodie, and Dubrovnik totally came through, everything we ate was so good.

What to See & Do in Dubrovnik

  • Start your day at the Rector’s Palace – Arrive early to explore this historic gem without the crowds.

  • Walk the Old Town walls – Best experienced in the morning or late afternoon. Enter through Ploče Gate; your ticket also includes access to the nearby Fort Lovrijenac. Ticket prices are 40 Euro/person.

  • Climb Minceta Tower – Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic.

  • Stroll through Dubrovnik’s Old Town – Walk around the charming historic streets, soaking in the architecture and atmosphere. Feel free to get lost and wander through the narrow alley ways. Old town Dubrovnik felt very safe and it’s the best way to find authentic cuisine and local artisans.

  • Pause for coffee at Gradska Kavana – Relax at this elegant café with beautiful views of the harbor.

  • Take the cable car to Mount Srd – Enjoy incredible views of Dubrovnik from above.

  • Either hike down or zip line for an adventurous return.

  • Do a boat tour of Lokrum Island – End your day with a peaceful escape and scenic beauty just off the coast. Just a heads up: a local warned us that this island is haunted and advised against taking any rocks or sand from Lokrum Island. This island is allegedly cursed by the monks that occupied it and were kicked out by Napoleons army.

Where to Eat & Drink

  • Portun – A romantic hideaway tucked in a charming alley, serving outstanding seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

  • Lucin – A beautiful restaurant offering refined, elevated cuisine in an elegant setting. Highly recommended: the duck and the octopus.

  • Trattoria Carmen – A small, family-owned Italian restaurant tucked away off the main marina in Old Town, specializing in fresh fish and seafood.

  • Forty Four Restaurant – A romantic fine dining spot known for phenomenal food and exceptional hospitality. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.

  • Panorama Restaurant – Dine with unforgettable views from Mount Srd.

  • Lady Pi-Pi – Savor fresh Croatian seafood on a charming outdoor terrace.

  • Buza Bar -This place is cash only, but it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s perched on the side of Dubrovnik’s sea wall with amazing views.

  • Peppino’s Gelato – Dubrovnik’s best gelato. They have multiple locations in Dubrovnik Peppino's Gelato Factory and Peppino's Gelato Garden.

Best Beaches To See

  • Banje Beach - Iconic pebble beach near Old Town with amazing city views and water sports. We grabbed lunch and an Aperol Spritz here, only a quick walk from where we stayed.

  • Copacabana Beach - Lively pebble beach with plenty of space, cafes, and bars.

  • Sveti Jakov Beach - Quiet pebble beach with stunning Old Town views, a bit of a walk down.

  • Lapad Beach - Family-friendly mix of sand and pebbles, near restaurants and promenade.

  • Šunj Beach (Lopud Island) - Sandy beach with shallow waters, perfect for a ferry day trip.

  • Lokrum Island Beaches - Small rocky beaches surrounded by nature, just a short boat ride away.

Tips & for Visiting Old Town Dubrovnik

  • Avoid Eating on Stradun: Overpriced and often average—venture a few streets over for better food.

  • Book Fine Dining Early: Top restaurants get fully booked, especially in summer.

  • No Cars Allowed: The Old Town is pedestrian-only—wear comfy shoes and pack light.

  • Visit Early or Late: Beat the cruise ship crowds by exploring in the early morning or evening.

  • Carry Cash: Some small shops and bakeries don’t accept cards. Buza Bar also only takes cash.

Where to Stay - Hotel Excelsior

This hotel was truly exceptional. If you are looking for something luxury this is it. We were lucky enough to spend three nights here, and it was the perfect way to end our trip. While it’s definitely on the pricier side, visiting in the off-season or using points (as we did) can make it much more affordable.

The complimentary breakfast was phenomenal, served with stunning ocean views. Hotel Excelsior also features both indoor and outdoor pools, lounge chairs right by the water, and even a ladder for direct access to the sea.

Everything about our stay was incredible, and its location made it even better, it’s just a 10-minute walk from Old Town! Highly recommended; it’s one of the main reasons we fell in love with Dubrovnik. The perfect spot to relax and unwind after days of exploring Croatia.

If Croatia’s on your bucket list, consider this your sign to start planning! With amazing national parks, cute towns, and crystal-clear waters, what’s not to love? This itinerary has all my favorite spots that made the trip awesome for my husband and me. Hopefully, it helps you have a great time too! And if you have any questions while planning, just drop a comment or message — I’ve got your back.

Happy Travels!

Elle May
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