1 Week
With one week of time in Croatia, I will show you how to have a whirlwind adventure while still taking in the history and beauty of the country. All of the recommended destinations are well-connected by bus (local) or Flixbus.
Zagreb (1.5 days)
Since my first visit to Croatia, I have referred to Zagreb as the best “underrated capital” and after seeing 49 countries and counting, it remains among the top underrated cities in the Balkans and potentially within Europe in my eyes. Zagreb is full of wonderful architecture, markets, friendly locals, and more!
- Cathedral of Zagreb
- Museum of Broken Relationships – both touching and eye-opening takes on love
- Saint Mark’s Church
- Market Dolac
- Mirogoj cemetery
- Stone Gate
- Upper Town
- Museum of Illusions
Rijeka (2.5 days)
A natural addition from during a trip to Croatia after traveling from Zagreb would be Rijeka which is located about 2.5 hours West via a local bus. The town is wonderful, vibrant and not as touristy as other parts of Croatia.
- Trsat Castle
- City Clock Tower
- Saint Virtus’ Church
- Central Market
- Rijeka Tunnel
- Sablicevo Beach
- Korzo
Krk (3 days)
Krk is a magnificent taste of island life either before a trip to the South or during a longer trip across the country.
- Explore the island life of Croatia
- Baska
- Stara Baska
2 Weeks
Add:
Pula (2 days)
Pula is such a stand out city to me! The reason being for the extremely well-preserved Roman ruins. The history, food (which is loosely Italian influenced) and atmosphere is something to experience!
- Pula Arena – a cannot miss!
- Temple of Augustus
- Arch of the Sergii
- Pula Citadel
- Church and Monastery of St. Francis
Zadar (3 days)
I have fond memories of sitting by the Sea Organ listening to the waves crash against the steps. I can also recall wandering the boardwalk until evening where the lights of the Greeting to the Sun would ignite. An iconic Croatian experience!
- Sea Organ
- Saint Donatus’ Church
- The Greeting to the Sun
- Cathedral of St. Anatasia
- Roman Forum
- The Five Wells Square
- Land Gate
- Zadar Market
Krka National Park (1 day)
- A national park with wonderful waterfalls
- A break from the crowds as this is a lesser known park compared to Plitvice NP but equally as amazing!
Plitvice National Park (1 day)
- Waterfalls, waterfalls, and more waterfalls – need I say more?
3 Weeks +
Add:
Split (3 days)
The most remarkable thing about Split from my recollection was the stunning waterfront and city views that one can access by small hikes!
- Diocletian’s Palace
- Klis Fortress
- Jupiter’s Temple
- Golden gate
- Boardwalk along the waterfront lined with palm trees
- People’s square
- Marjan Park
- Church of Saint Domnius
Hvar (4 days)
- Relax and enjoy delicious coastal Croatian food
- Take in the beaches
- Try local beer
Image credit: https://www.pexels.com/search/croatia/
Dubrovnik (4 days)
This is arguably the most famous city in Croatia, can you figure out why?
- Filming location for some of the Game of Thrones series
- Old Dubrovnik
- Hiking
Image credit: Veeterzy (https://www.pexels.com/search/croatia/) //
Image credit for heart photo (introduction): https://www.pexels.com/photo/valentines-day-heart-composition-15588455/
There you have it – my itinerary suggests that it will range from 1 to 3+ weeks of time in Croatia; have fun and tailor accordingly! -K
Stampchaser Photography 
Agreed on Zagreb! It’s heart-wrenching to me how little it is appreciated.
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One of my favorite capitals but so often missed
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