Croatia 3 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Zagreb and Plitvice Lakes National Park

Morning

  • Arrive in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia
  • Visit the Ban Jelačić Square, the main square of the city, surrounded by cafes, shops, and historic buildings
  • Explore the Upper Town, a charming area with narrow streets, historic buildings, and scenic views

Afternoon

  • Take a bus or drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the park’s 16 turquoise lakes and waterfalls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Hike through the park’s trails, taking in the stunning natural beauty

Evening

  • Return to Zagreb for dinner and exploration of the city’s nightlife
  • Try traditional Croatian cuisine, such as peka (a slow-cooked meat or vegetable dish) and paprikaš (a spicy sausage)

Things to Know

  • Croatia is a part of the European Union, but not a part of the Schengen Area, so a visa may be required for some nationalities
  • The official currency is the Croatian Kuna (HRK), although euros are widely accepted

Transportation

  • Bus: Take a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park with companies like FlixBus or Autotrans
  • Car: Rent a car in Zagreb and drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park (approx. 2 hours)
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available, but can be more expensive

Day 2: Split and Diocletian’s Palace

Morning

  • Take an early bus or drive to Split (approx. 4 hours), the largest coastal city in Croatia
  • Visit Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world
  • Explore the palace’s cellars, temples, and streets

Afternoon

  • Relax on Bačvice Beach, a popular beach in Split with crystal-clear waters
  • Take a stroll along the Riva, the waterfront promenade lined with cafes and restaurants

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Split’s many seafood restaurants
  • Explore the city’s nightlife, with many bars and clubs concentrated in the palace area

Things to Know

  • The peak tourist season is July and August, so expect larger crowds and higher prices
  • Be sure to try some fresh seafood, a staple of Croatian cuisine

Transportation

  • Bus: Take a bus from Zagreb to Split with companies like FlixBus or Autotrans
  • Car: Rent a car in Zagreb and drive to Split (approx. 4 hours)
  • Ferry: Take a ferry from Split to nearby islands, such as Brač or Hvar

Day 3: Hvar Island

Morning

  • Take a ferry from Split to Hvar Island (approx. 2 hours)
  • Visit the picturesque town of Hvar, with its historic architecture and charming atmosphere
  • Explore the island’s beaches, such as Palmižana or Zavala

Afternoon

  • Rent a scooter or car and explore the island’s scenic roads and villages
  • Visit the Hvar Fortress, a 16th-century fortress with stunning views of the town and sea

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at one of Hvar’s many restaurants, featuring fresh seafood and local wines
  • Relax in your accommodation, or explore the island’s nightlife

Things to Know

  • Be sure to try some of Croatia’s famous wine, such as Malvazija or Pošip
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife, and take all trash with you when leaving beaches and parks

Transportation

  • Ferry: Take a ferry from Split to Hvar Island with companies like Jadrolinija or Krilo
  • Scooter/Car: Rent a scooter or car on Hvar Island to explore the island’s roads and villages