Lets explore a 6-day journey through Croatia’s hidden gems.
Day 1: Zurich to Zagreb
Description:
Zagreb, Croatia’s vibrant capital, is a city that blends its historic charm with a modern flair. Known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture, green spaces, and lively street cafes, Zagreb offers a perfect introduction to Croatian culture.
How to Reach:
- Flight: Direct flight from Zurich to Zagreb (approx. 1.5-hour flight).
Accommodation:
- Budget: Hostel Bureau – Centrally located with clean dorms and private rooms, offering a friendly and social atmosphere.
- Moderate: Hotel Dubrovnik – Situated in the heart of Zagreb, this hotel provides modern amenities and easy access to main attractions.
- Luxury: Esplanade Zagreb Hotel – A luxurious hotel with elegant rooms and top-notch services, located near the main train station and botanical gardens.
Activities:
- Upper Town (Gornji Grad):
- Explore the historic Upper Town, home to landmarks like St. Mark’s Church with its colorful roof, and the Lotrščak Tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
- Museum of Broken Relationships:
- Visit this unique museum that showcases personal objects from failed relationships, each accompanied by a story.
- Dolac Market:
- Stroll through this lively open-air market to experience local life and taste fresh Croatian produce.
Dishes to Eat:
- Strukli:
- A traditional Croatian dish made with dough and fresh cheese, baked or boiled.
- Ćevapi:
- Grilled minced meat sausages, often served with flatbread, onions, and ajvar.
- Kremšnita:
- A delightful custard cream cake, popular in Zagreb.
Evening:
- Tkalčićeva Street:
- Enjoy dinner and drinks on this bustling street filled with cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Spend the night at your chosen accommodation in Zagreb.
Day 2: Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park
Description:
Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its cascading lakes and waterfalls surrounded by lush forest. It is one of Croatia’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
How to Reach:
- Car/Bus: Drive or take a bus from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park (approx. 2-hour drive).
Accommodation:
- Budget: Guesthouse Plitvice House – A cozy and affordable stay near the park entrance.
- Moderate: Plitvice Hotel – Conveniently located within the park, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to the trails.
- Luxury: Ethno Houses Plitvica Selo – Luxury accommodation with traditional Croatian decor, close to the park.
Activities:
- Explore the Lakes and Waterfalls:
- Spend the day walking the trails and boardwalks that wind through the park, allowing you to see the stunning waterfalls up close. Take a boat ride across Lake Kozjak for a different perspective.
Dishes to Eat:
- Trout:
- Freshly caught and grilled trout, a local specialty in the Plitvice area.
- Janjetina:
- Roast lamb, often prepared in traditional Croatian style.
- Krpice sa Zeljem:
- A simple yet delicious pasta dish with cabbage.
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Spend the night at your chosen accommodation back to Zagreb or near Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Day 3: Plitvice to Split
Description:
Split, Croatia’s second-largest city, is a vibrant coastal town known for its ancient Roman architecture, particularly the well-preserved Diocletian’s Palace. The city seamlessly blends history with modern attractions.
How to Reach:
- Car/Bus: Drive or take a bus from Plitvice Lakes to Split (approx. 3-hour drive).
Accommodation:
- Budget: Split Hostel Booze & Snooze – A lively hostel located in the heart of the city, perfect for budget travelers.
- Moderate: Hotel Luxe – A stylish hotel offering modern amenities and a central location.
- Luxury: Hotel Park – A five-star hotel with elegant rooms and exceptional service, located near the beach.
Activities:
- Diocletian’s Palace:
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, which forms the historic center of Split. Highlights include the Peristyle, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, and the Temple of Jupiter.
- Marjan Hill:
- Hike up Marjan Hill for stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
- Riva Promenade:
- Stroll along the Riva, a bustling waterfront promenade lined with cafes and restaurants.
Dishes to Eat:
- Pasticada:
- A traditional Dalmatian beef stew, slow-cooked and served with gnocchi.
- Crni Rižot:
- Black risotto made with cuttlefish or squid.
- Fritule:
- Small doughnut-like pastries, often served during festive seasons.
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Spend the night at your chosen accommodation in Split or back to Zagreb.
Day 4: Split to Hvar Island
Description:
Hvar Island, known for its beautiful beaches, lavender fields, and vibrant nightlife, is one of Croatia’s most popular destinations. The island offers a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
How to Reach:
- Ferry: Take a ferry from Split to Hvar Island (approx. 1-hour ferry ride).
Accommodation:
- Budget: Hostel Marinero – Centrally located and known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable rates.
- Moderate: Hotel Villa Dalmacija – Offers comfortable rooms with beautiful sea views, located near the town center.
- Luxury: Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort – A luxurious resort with stunning views, private beach access, and top-notch amenities.
Activities:
- Hvar Town:
- Explore the charming streets of Hvar Town, visit the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views, and wander around the historic square.
- Beaches:
- Relax at one of Hvar’s many beautiful beaches, such as Dubovica or Milna Beach.
- Pakleni Islands:
- Take a boat trip to the nearby Pakleni Islands for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring secluded coves.
Dishes to Eat:
- Gregada:
- A traditional Hvar fish stew made with white fish, potatoes, and herbs.
- Hvarski Škampi:
- Fresh scampi from Hvar, grilled and served with olive oil and garlic.
- Lavender Ice Cream:
- A local specialty, reflecting the island’s famous lavender fields.
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Spend the night at your chosen accommodation on Hvar Island or Split.
Day 5: Hvar to Dubrovnik
Description:
Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” is a stunning coastal city known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, historic city walls, and beautiful beaches. The city’s Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
How to Reach:
- Ferry and Car/Bus: Take a ferry back to Split, then drive or take a bus from Split to Dubrovnik (approx. 3.5-hour drive).
Accommodation:
- Budget: Hostel Angelina Old Town – Located in the heart of the Old Town, this hostel offers affordable dormitory and private rooms with a friendly atmosphere.
- Moderate: Hotel Lero – A comfortable hotel with modern amenities, located a short walk from the Old Town. It features an outdoor pool and an on-site restaurant.
- Luxury: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – A five-star hotel offering luxurious rooms with stunning sea views, private beach access, and exceptional dining options.
Activities:
- Walk the City Walls:
- Explore the ancient walls that encircle the Old Town. Enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea and the city’s red-roofed buildings. The walk takes about 2 hours and offers many photo opportunities.
- Visit Lovrijenac Fortress:
- Also known as “Dubrovnik’s Gibraltar,” this fortress provides a fascinating history and spectacular views of the city and the sea.
- Cable Car to Mount Srđ:
- Take a cable car ride to the top of Mount Srđ for breathtaking views of Dubrovnik and the surrounding islands. There is also a museum and a restaurant at the top.
Dishes to Eat:
- Black Risotto (Crni Rižot):
- A traditional Croatian dish made with cuttlefish or squid, giving it a distinctive black color and rich flavor.
- Peka:
- A dish of meat (usually lamb or octopus) and vegetables, slow-cooked under a bell-like lid covered with embers.
- Dubrovnik’s Rozata:
- A local dessert similar to crème brûlée, flavored with rose liqueur.
Evening:
- Sunset Walk:
- Take a leisurely walk along the Stradun (the main street) as the sun sets, enjoying the lively atmosphere and street performers.
- Dinner:
- Budget: Enjoy casual dining at Barba, known for its fresh seafood and relaxed vibe.
- Moderate: Dine at Dubravka 1836 Restaurant & Café, offering delicious food with a view of the city walls and the sea.
- Luxury: Treat yourself to a gourmet meal at Restaurant 360, a Michelin-starred restaurant located in the city walls, offering a fine dining experience with stunning views.
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Spend the night at your chosen accommodation in Dubrovnik.
Day 6: Dubrovnik Exploration and Departure
Description:
Spend your final day soaking in the beauty and culture of Dubrovnik, with a mix of relaxation and sightseeing.
Activities:
- Lokrum Island:
- A short ferry ride from Dubrovnik, Lokrum Island is a nature reserve with botanical gardens, a monastery, and the Dead Sea lake, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
- Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury:
- Visit the beautiful cathedral, known for its impressive architecture and the treasury housing relics and artifacts.
- Old Town Exploration:
- Wander through the narrow streets, visit local shops for souvenirs, and soak in the historic ambiance of the city.
How to Reach:
- Flight: Fly from Dubrovnik to Zurich (approx. 2-hour flight).
Night Stay Suggestion:
- Depending on your flight time, you may need an additional night stay in Dubrovnik or travel directly to the airport for your departure.
Travel Summary : 6 Days
Destinations:
- Zagreb: Croatia’s vibrant capital with historic charm.
- Plitvice Lakes National Park: UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning lakes and waterfalls.
- Split: Coastal city known for its ancient Roman architecture.
- Hvar Island: Famous for beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.
- Dubrovnik: The “Pearl of the Adriatic,” known for its medieval architecture and stunning views.