2 Weeks in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Itinerary #1: Highlights of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, Plitvice & Dalmatia

Perfect for first-time visitors to Croatia, this well-rounded itinerary covers the highlights of Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik. Throughout, you'll uncover city secrets on guided tours, visit storied castles, and meander through fortress towns that reflect bygone times. In between, enjoy an introduction to Croatia's lush landscapes through a two-day stay near Plitvice Lakes National Park and side excursions to Krka National Park and Mount Srđ.

Welcome to Croatia! Your adventure begins in Zagreb, where you'll get your first introduction to the country's history through a self-guided tour and visits to Trakošćan Castle and Varazdin. Next, transfer west to Motovun and spend time here meandering around its Venetian-inspired town square and embarking on a truffle hunting mission. More nature-based activities await over the following two days, this time in Plitvice Lakes National Park. Horseback, cycle, kayak, and hike among the region's waterfall-riddled pine forests, and in between, relax at your treehouse accommodation in Grabovac. 

The second half of your adventure kicks off with a transfer to Split, which will serve as your base to explore the Dalmatian Coast. Focus on Split for the first two days, discovering Old Town's hidden corners and delighting in the city's indulgent cuisine; then, tick off side trips to Krka National Park, the fortress town of Trogir, and the "Game of Thrones" famous Klis Fortress. Continue to Dubrovnik afterward, where you'll explore its mazelike alleys alongside a guide. Lastly, join a cooking class at a family's home in Cilipi village and dine atop Mount Srđ. Learn more

Itinerary #2: Ultimate Croatia Road Trip: Zagreb, Plitvice, Brač & Dubrovnik

Crafted especially for those who enjoy the freedom of a self-drive vacation, this scenic road trip across Croatia features iconic cities, Adriatic islands, and a detour into Montenegro. Effortlessly make your way from Zagreb to Split before continuing by ferry along the Dalmatian Coast to Dubrovnik. With stops to experience the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Parks and four days set aside to soak up the sunshine and history of Brač and Hvar islands, you can look forward to a trip that's equal parts exploration and relaxation.

Your epic road trip through Croatia gets rolling in Zagreb. After spending your first evening sampling traditional dishes on a food tour, you'll venture to the town of Samodor for a wine-tasting experience. Then, pack up the rental car the following morning and embark on a three-day journey to Split. Along the way, overnight and hike in Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore Zadar independently, and detour to Krka National Park for a walk among the waterfalls. Upon reaching Split, take a break from driving and focus your time on exploring Diocletian's Palace and Marjan Park on foot.

Nearing the midway mark of your trip, it's time to devote four days to the dreamy Dalmatian Islands. Your first base is Brač, and thanks to your rental car, you'll easily hop between its Greek relics, sea caves, and splendid beaches. Then, ferry to Hvar and spend your time hiking to ancient stone villages and cycling between family-owned vineyards. Your final destination is Dubrovnik, and with three days set aside to experience its many wonders, you'll have no problem squeezing in an Old Town walking tour along with a side trip to Kotor—a medieval village located in nearby Montenegro. Learn more

Itinerary #3: Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Zagreb, Ljubljana, Istria & Dalmatia

Enjoy a carefully crafted blend of history, nature, and culture on this whirlwind introduction to Croatia and Slovenia. Ideal for those seeking a fast-paced trip, you'll drive from Zagreb to Slovenia's capital of Ljubljana before making your way down the Dalmatian Coast. Along the way, tour castles dating back to the 14th century, hop between Istria's medieval towns, and pause for hikes in Plitvice Lakes and Krka National Parks.

Your adventure kicks off in the intriguing city of Zagreb, and after delighting in an afternoon of exploration, you'll embark on a day trip to check out Zagorje's fairy-tale castles and fortresses. The following morning, collect a rental car and cross the border to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, which is an excellent base to explore nearby Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj. Next, return to Croatia and continue on to the coastal town of Rovinj. Two days here ensure you have time for an unhurried wander through Old Town and a side excursion to the medieval towns of Grožnjan, Oprtalj, and Motovun.

Next on your itinerary is Plitvice Lakes National Park, and after an evening arrival, you'll eagerly rise early to hike amid the park's lake-lined trails at sunrise. Afterward, on your drive to Split, overnight in the ancient town of Zadar and explore Šibenik's impressive fortresses. Then, from Split, dedicate a day to exploring Krka National Park before setting your sights on the welcoming island of Korčula. Lastly, continue by ferry to Dubrovnik and wrap up your adventure in style with a private tour of Old Town, a thrilling Elafiti Islands speedboat tour, and a farewell dinner atop Mount Srđ on the agenda. Learn more

Itinerary #4: Classic Croatia: Dubrovnik to Zagreb

Immerse yourself in the laid-back culture of the Dalmatian Islands before zipping from Split to Zagreb on this relaxed coastal journey. Crafted in mind for travelers seeking a slower-paced adventure that's still brimming with activities, you can look forward to wine-tasting, sea kayaking, hiking, cycling, and sailing. Plus, with a few city tours and guided treks mixed in, you'll undoubtedly leave feeling introduced to the country's history and culture.

After arriving in Dubrovnik and taking an afternoon to roam Old Town and venture up Mount Srđ independently, you'll enlist the help of a local guide for an insightful walking tour. Next, spend a day hopping between family-owned wineries in the Konavle region before boarding a ferry bound for Korčula. This beach-fringed island is your home base for three nights, and during your stay, you'll venture to Mljet Island National Park for a guided tour and join a fun-filled wine-tasting adventure. From Korčula, ferry to the island of Hvar and treat yourself to an idyllic day of kayaking and snorkeling.

Week two of your adventure begins with a memorable sailing trip to the island of Vis, complete with a visit to Blue Cave, followed by a transfer by ferry to Split. Upon arrival, delve into the city's history during a walking tour. Then, wake early to explore Krka National Park and squeeze in a stop in Šibenik before continuing to Zadar. There's plenty to see in this ancient Roman city, so take advantage of a day to explore independently, as afterward, you'll wrap up your adventure with a hike in Plitvice Lakes National Park and transfer to Zagreb. Learn more

Itinerary #5: Croatia Multisport Adventure: Zagreb, Plitvice & the Dalmatian Coast

This active adventure through Croatia is perfect for those who enjoy including fitness and thrill in their travels. Throughout, you'll raft along the Zrmanja River, zipline over Cetina Canyon, sea kayak between the idyllic Pakleni Islands, and hike between laid-back Dalmatian villages. In between, rejuvenate during wine-tasting tours and scenic transfers as you make your way from Zagreb to Dubrovnik via Adriatic islands and rugged national parks.

Your adventure begins in Zagreb, where a personalized walking tour will help eliminate travel fatigue, ensuring you're ready for an exciting hike among the lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Continue the excitement the following day with an adrenaline-infused rafting trip down the Zrmanja River, followed by a transfer to Zadar. While you'll have time here to explore its lively waterfront, the highlight is sure to be a guided hike amid karst formations in Paklenica National Park. Afterward, transfer to Split and dedicate a full day to rafting, ziplining, and canyoning through Cetina River Canyon.

The second leg of your adventure kicks off with a ferry ride to the island of Hvar, and during your two-day stay here, you'll have time to explore the island's interior by bike or on foot and kayak among the dreamy Pakleni Islands. Next, hop over to the island of Korčula and partake in a cycling and wine-tasting tour. Spend the following morning hiking on the slopes of Mount Ilija, then transfer to the iconic walled city of Dubrovnik. Your trip might be winding down, but you'll still fit in a guided walking tour and a wine-tasting experience on the city's outskirts before bidding farewell. Learn more

More Great 2-Week Croatia Itineraries

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to Belize? Check out these other two-week Croatia itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.