Best of dalmatian COAST CROATIA in 11 days
Croatia is a dream come true for those seeking a blend of ancient history, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture—all at an accessible price point. Perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike, this itinerary offers an enchanting mix of island-hopping, historic sites, and coastal relaxation. Whether you’re wandering through Roman ruins, savoring fresh seafood by the Adriatic, or taking in a sunset with your feet in the sand, Croatia will captivate your heart. A little adventurous, a little luxurious, and full of unforgettable experiences, this journey is sure to make memories that last a lifetime. Ideal for couples, solo explorers, or anyone who loves the blend of culture, beauty, and just the right amount of relaxation.
4 CITIES
Split, Hvar, Korcula, Dubrovnik
11 Days
Fly into Split, take a high speed ferry to Hvar, then Korcula and finally Dubrovnik.
>$5K
Thanks to reasonable Croatian prices, you don't need to break the bank for your trip to ooze romance and opulence.
Romance + Adventure
Active trip with plenty of hiking and enjoying the nature and beauty of the Dalmatian coastline.
Location
overview
SPLIT - 1 NIGHT
HVAR TOWN - 5 NIGHTS
KORCULA - 2 NIGHTS
DUBROVNIK - 3 NIGHTS
Pro tips
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What to wear in Croatia in Summer: Swimsuits! (so many swimsuits!), hat, sunglasses, scarves for windy boat rides and cliffs, maxi skirts to double as outfits and coverups, a few nice sundresses, sandals, and good walking shoes, embracing the hues of the orange rooftops and ivories of the area.
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Packing tip: Plan to wear your swimsuit under your day clothes everyday. The summer heats up and luckily you can jump into the Adriatic almost anywhere you are to cool off.
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Use bookaway to check ferry schedules and book directly from there.
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Use cruisedigs.com to check cruise ship schedules and avoid the days when cruise ships and their passangers will be in port.
Day 1 - SPLIT
ARRIVE IN SPLIT + UNCOVER ANCIENT WONDERS
STAY: Villa Split Heritage Hotel
A hidden gem right in the heart of Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, Villa Split Heritage Hotel, housed in a 10th-century Romanesque landmark, allows you to stay within the walls of ancient Roman ruins. Its modern comfort contrasts with the centuries-old surroundings, offering a peaceful retreat in the center of Split’s bustling life.
DO: Once you arrive, leave your stuff packed, and hit the ground exploring the narrow alleys and hidden courtyards of Diocletian’s Palace—a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels alive with history. Climb the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral for panoramic views of the city and harbor. Stroll along Pjaca (People’s Square), where modern life meets centuries of history.
Wander through the maze of streets within Diocletian’s Palace and explore the remnants of ancient temples, including the Temple of Jupiter. Visit the Peristyle—an open-air courtyard that once served as the heart of Roman life in Split.
DRINK: All that exploring deserves a refreshment. Stop for a drink at the Riva promenade, where you can enjoy a refreshing cocktail while people-watching along the picturesque Riva promenade.
DO: Take a leisurely stroll along the Riva promenade as the sun begins to set, watching as the sea sparkles under the fading light. If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Teraca Vidilica for a panoramic view of Split with a cocktail in hand.
EAT: End your adventures with a light and delicious meal at Fig Split, surrounded by plants and good vibes. Enjoy delicious local specialties like fresh seafood and vibrant Mediterranean dishes in a relaxed atmosphere. The flavor of the island shines through in every bite.
DAY 2 - HVAR
HEAD TO HVAR: ISLAND ESCAPE
After breakfast, take the ferry to Hvar—a place where history and nature intertwine. The island’s charm lies not just in its beautiful beaches but in its quiet villages and timeless landscapes.
STAY: Beach Bay Hvar Hotel. Located by a serene bay, the Beach Bay Hvar Hotel is quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of Hvar Town but all the fun is accessible, just one turn on the pier. The Beach Bay Hvar Hotel offers sweeping views of the Adriatic and easy access to Hvar’s beaches, including its own sun promenade. It’s an ideal place to relax, letting the island’s natural beauty wash over you.
DO: Spend the afternoon exploring Hvar Town and its charming streets lined with Venetian architecture. Wander through St. Stephen’s Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, surrounded by Renaissance and Venetian buildings.
HIKE: If you have the energy, and the sun isn't too intense, visit the Fortica Fortress for panoramic views of the town and the islands beyond. Stroll through the Franciscan Monastery and its peaceful garden.
RELAX: Enjoy some time relaxing on the hotels sun promenade, over the small beach inlet. Order a cocktail or one of their refreshing smoothies for some well-deserved R&R.
EAT: Head to the charming patio of Mediterraneo for a fine-dining experience that celebrates Dalmatian cuisine with an elegant touch, surrounded by lush foliage, or Paradise Garden Hvar – with its enchanting setting and delicious food, this restaurant is sure to offer a memorable meal.
Day 3 - HVAR
BEACH CLUB BLISS
DO: After a leisurely made-to-order breakfast at Beach Bay Hvar, today is your day to splurge. Head to the infamous Carpe Diem Beach Club for a fun filled day filled with refreshing cocktails, sushi and other fare while lounging on the beach or cabana.
During the day you can catch taxi boats in front of Mlinar bakery. The price is 10€ per person and the ticket is valid for both ways. Taxis leave every 20 minutes from Hvar Town and return every full hour from Carpe Diem Beach back to Hvar Town.
EAT: After your day of hedonism, keep the party going and dine at Gariful where you can be mesmerized by fire dancers while enjoy your al fresco balcony meal as the sunsets over the Adriatic.
Day 5 - HVAR
DAY 5 - HVAR
MOTO MAGIC: UNCOVER HVAR'S MYSTIQUE
PACK: Swimsuit and coverup, dress (perfect for a day of beach relaxation and evening elegance)
DO: Rent a moto and explore the rest of Hvar island. Zip through the island, enjoying the breeze, on to Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe, located on the northern side of Hvar Island in the Adriatic Sea. It was founded by the ancient Greeks in 384 BC (the same year Aristotle was born) under the name Pharos, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited towns in Croatia. Unlike the lively and party-focused Hvar Town, Stari Grad has a much more laid-back, historical, and authentic atmosphere. The town is full of charming stone alleys, picturesque waterfront promenades, and stunning countryside landscapes filled with vineyards and olive groves. The Stari Grad Plain (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is a unique agricultural landscape that has been cultivated continuously for over 2,400 years, following the same Greek land division system. It’s filled with vineyards, olive trees, and dry stone walls, showing how the ancient Greeks farmed. Explore the old town, and wander through narrow stone-paved streets lined with quaint cafés, small shops, and beautiful Venetian-style houses. Have a gelado and take a dip in one of the many beaches.
EXPLORE: Wander through Malo Grablje, a ghostlike peaceful village with rustic charm, and get a taste of authentic island life. Take in the atmosphere of this ghost town turned secret gem
REVIVE: En route, enjoy a meal or a glass of wine with a view at Alavia, a magical, off-the-beaten path slice of heaven.
REFRESH: En route back to Hvar Town, take a detour and climb down the many, many stairs to Dubovica Beach. Enjoy the lapping turquoise waters and here you will find a boho off-the-beaten-track gem of a beach bar with the sweetest staff, Duba Beach. Try the frozen nescafe or one of the other delicious cocktails on their limited menu (everything must be brought down all those stairs!)
EAT: Moto doesn't have to be turned in until the next morning, end your day under the tree scapes at the Falko Bar, a laid-back spot perfect for enjoying drinks and watching the sunset. The chilled atmosphere makes it an ideal place for some downtime after a busy day.
DAY 6 - HVAR
LUXURY OASIS
DO: Take the day off and book sunbeds complete with private indoor quarters at Beach Club Hvar - Bonj Les Bains, a luxurious and historic beach club. The location is renowned for its classy ambiance and breathtaking views. Enjoy lounging, swimming, and enjoying delicious drinks and bites in a truly serene setting, well worth the price tag of €295 for a day of romantic and pampering relaxation.
DO: If you are ready for a little a more action, take a water taxi to Water Taxi to Palmizana (Sveti Klement Island) and spend the day at the rustic, yet sexy, Laganini Beach Club.
DO: Spend your last evening evening walking around Hvar Town, soaking in the laid-back yet vibrant atmosphere.
EAT: Have an outstanding last supper at Black Pepper, renowned for its creative fare, and cheers to a vibrant couple of days in heavenly Hvar.
DAY 4 - HVAR
SET SAIL FOR THE PAKLENI ISLANDS
PACK: Swimsuit, coverup, hat and scarf (perfect for exploring some beautiful beaches and cruising around the islands)
DO: Book a day sail. Set sail for a spectacular 8-hour journey around the Pakleni Islands, a series of small islands off the coast of Hvar. Escape to pristine waters and sandy shores, while enjoying the luxury of a private sailboat. Enjoy the panoramic views, stop for swimming, and unwind with some local delicacies as you cruise along. We recommend the sail with the Day Sail. Lunch, at Notos, a little bohemian palapa, on a distant island, oozed vacation vibes.
EAT: After your full day adventure, choose a table at Don Quixote, a cozy spot just 2 minutes away from the hotel. Known for its refined atmosphere and excellent Croatian dishes, it’s a great way to finish your day. Or, opt for an easy slice of pie in the vine covered hut operated by Code 11 by the beach next to the hotel.
Day 7 - KORCULA
CYCLING THE WINERIES
PACK: Travel clothes and ebike clothes; a dress for dinner (time to explore the beautiful Korčula and enjoy some cycling through vineyards)
TRAVEL: Catch the Catamaran to Korčula, leaving 10:45 AM from Hvar Town. It’s about an hour-long trip (12:05 PM arrival). TP Line from Obala Vinka Paletina, 20260, Korčula, Croatia. Cost €50
STAY: Zuviteo Residence (Korčula Town - 2 nights). This residence is perfect for soaking in the charm of the old town, which dates back to the Roman Empire and Venetian Republic. Take a trip through history with your accommodation, which offers a peaceful yet luxurious retreat.
EXPLORE: Explore the Old Town. Discover the 1,000-year-old city walls, towers, and old lanes. Don't miss visiting Marco Polo's House or hiking up St. Mark’s Bell Tower for magnificent views.
ADVENTURE: Rent an eBike and explore Korčula's lush countryside. Cycle down to the village of Lumbarda, known for its quaint charm and visit the incredible Konoba More, a traditional eatery in Lumbarda where you can enjoy local dishes with a view of the sea.
SAVOR: On your way back, visit Bire Winery, Popic Winery and Vitis Winery. Sample Grk wine (pronounced Gurk), an ancient wine variety unique to the island. It's a rich, full-bodied white with a fascinating history dating back to the Ancient Greeks. Pair the wines with some delicious Dalmatian meats, cheeses, and fish dishes.
COCKTAILS WITH A VIEW: At sunset, make your way to Massimo Cocktail Bar in Korčula offers drinks in a unique setting: a tower with panoramic views of Pelješac. Climb the ladder to reach the top and enjoy cocktails with a side of stunning views.
DINE: Korcula Town has a row of charming restaurants overlooking the water on the promenade. Book a romantic table at the Michellin starred LD Restaurant.
DAY 8 - KORCULA
ISLAND HOPPING
DO: After an amazing breakfast at Zuviteo Residence, grab a ticket for the hop on hop off water taxis near Korcula town, and make your way for one of the neighboring islands. Badija, a quaint island with its monastery and free roaming deer, Vrnik, with a small island with the beach side restaurant, Vrnik Arts Club, where you will feel like you have the Adriatic all to yourself. Enjoy a spritz and enjoy a day of true vacation.
EAT: Enjoy some homemade pasta or gnocchi at the locally owned Fundamentum, tucked into one of the side streets of Korcula Town, or try the gorgeous Seven Seas Restaurant and Bar patio at the Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel.
Day 9 - DUBRONIK
A CITY OF STONE AND SEA, WRAPPED IN TIMELESS ROMANCE
Finally, it's time to visit the pearl of the Adriatic. After breakfast at the hotel Zuviteo Residence, catch the morning catamaran to Dubrovnik.
TRANSFER: Catamaran from Korčula to Dubrovnik (Krilo) €50 per person Book here
PACK: Exploring clothes, swimsuit, dress for the evening
STAY: Guesthouse 44 (3 nights) Upstairs from the restaurant of the same name, the lodging is clean, modern and in the middle of it all with some historical elements. The owner will treat you like family and provides a made-to-order breakfast each morning.
EXPLORE: Settle into Dubrovnik, wander Stradun, the polished limestone boulevard beating at the heart of the Old Town. Sip a coffee at Gradska Kavana Arsenal, watching the city come alive. Walk through Pile Gate, the dramatic entrance to Dubrovnik’s Old Town, where centuries of history unfold beneath your feet. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of Stradun, the city’s marble-paved heart, polished by time and whispers of past lovers.
DINE: Indulge in fresh Adriatic oysters at a hidden konoba, paired with crisp Dalmatian white wine or make a reservation with a view at Restaurant 360, a Michelin stared restaurant within a UNESCO heritage site.
Day 10 - DUBROVNIK
WALK THE WALLS. WHISPER TO THE WAVES
BREAKFAST INCLUDED made-to-order at Guesthouse 44
CITY WALLS: A breathtaking walk offering sweeping views over Dubrovnik’s red-tiled rooftops and shimmering Adriatic waters.
Don’t Miss: Pause at a harbor-side café for a moment of bliss
FORTRESS LOVRIJENAC: Climb to the city’s grand fortress, where the stone walls whisper tales of history, battles, and forbidden romances.
AFTERNOON BEACH ESCAPE:
Plaza Sveti Jakov – A hidden gem with crystal-clear waters
Beach Bar Dodo – The perfect place to sip a cocktail with your feet in the sand
Banje Beach - Upscale and trendy for an afternoon of glamour
SUNSET & DINNER: Ride the Dubrovnik Cable Car up to Mount Srđ
Restaurant Panorama – Dine with an unparalleled view of the city and the Elaphiti Islands
DAY 11 - Elaphiti Islands
ISLAND HOPPING AT ITS BEST
DO: After an amazing breakfast at Guesthouse 44, head to Zaton and rent a pasara boat and be your own skipper. Stop at the Blue Lagoon, Lopud and skipper around the Elaphiti Islands of Sipan and Kolocep.
REFRESH: Enjoy some true beach fare at Cima Beach Bar at Sunj Beach on Lopud before heading back out on the tranquil waters away from all the crowds.
EAT: A little further out, stop at BOWA, the Best of What's Around, a glamorous yet rustic beach dining experience, nestled in the serene embrace of Vrbova's secluded bay on the enchanting island of Šipan, just a stone's throw from Dubrovnik, and cheers to an amazing ending to one hell of a vacation.
