Croatia is a beautiful country with so much to see and do. Here's an ideal itinerary for 15 days in Croatia:
Day 1: Arrive in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. Spend the day exploring the city's historic center, including the stunning St. Mark's Church and the lively Dolac Market.
Day 2: Take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia's most beautiful natural wonders. Hike through the park's lush forests and crystal-clear lakes.
Day 3-4: Head to Istria, a picturesque peninsula known for its charming hilltop towns and delicious cuisine. Visit the Roman amphitheater in Pula, explore the medieval streets of Rovinj, and sample truffles and wine in Motovun.
Day 5-6: Drive down the coast to Zadar, a vibrant city with a rich history. Walk along the seafront promenade, visit the ancient Roman Forum, and listen to the famous Sea Organ.
Day 7-8: Continue south to Split, a bustling city with a stunning old town. Explore the Diocletian's Palace, climb the bell tower of St. Domnius Cathedral, and relax on the nearby beaches.
Day 9-10: Take a ferry to the island of Hvar, known for its beautiful beaches and glamorous nightlife. Spend your days lounging on the beach, hiking to hilltop fortresses, and sipping cocktails at beachside bars.
Day 11-12: Head to Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." Walk along the city walls, visit the Rector's Palace, and take a cable car up to Mount Srd for panoramic views of the city.
Day 13-14: Drive up the coast to the charming town of Trogir, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, visit the impressive Cathedral of St. Lawrence, and take a boat tour to nearby islands.
Day 15: Return to Zagreb for your flight home, or extend your trip with a visit to the stunning Plitvice Lakes or the historic city of Osijek.
I hope this itinerary helps you plan your perfect trip to Croatia!
Places of interest
Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital and largest city of Croatia, known for its historic architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene.
Dolac Market is a vibrant and bustling open-air market located in the heart of Zagreb, Croatia. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, flowers, and other local products.
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in Croatia. It features a series of interconnected lakes and waterfalls surrounded by lush forests and wildlife.
Istria is a peninsula in Croatia known for its beautiful coastline, charming hilltop towns, and delicious cuisine. It's a popular destination for beachgoers, foodies, and history buffs alike.
Pula is a coastal city located in the Istrian region of Croatia. It is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the impressive amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus.
Roman Forum Croatia is an archaeological site located in the city of Zadar, Croatia. It was once the center of political and social life in the ancient Roman city of Iader.
The Sea Organ is an architectural sound art installation located in Zadar, Croatia. It consists of a series of steps that descend into the Adriatic Sea, with pipes underneath that create music as the waves push air through them.
Split is a coastal city in Croatia known for its ancient Roman ruins, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife. It is the second-largest city in Croatia and a popular tourist destination.
Diocletian's Palace is an ancient palace built by the Roman Emperor Diocletian in the city of Split, Croatia. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia.
St. Domnius Cathedral is a stunning Roman Catholic cathedral located in Split, Croatia. It was originally built as a mausoleum for the Emperor Diocletian in the 4th century and later converted into a cathedral in the 7th century.
Dubrovnik is a stunning coastal city located in southern Croatia, known for its picturesque Old Town, ancient walls, and crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic Sea.
Rector's Palace is a historic building located in the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was built in the 15th century and served as the residence of the rector of the Republic of Ragusa. Today, it houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of Dubrovnik.
Trogir is a historic town located on the Adriatic coast of Croatia. It is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming narrow streets.
The Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a beautiful Baroque-style church located in the historic city of Trogir, Croatia. It was built in the 13th century and features stunning architecture and artwork.
Osijek is a city located in the eastern part of Croatia, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It is situated on the banks of the Drava River and offers a variety of attractions for visitors, including museums, parks, and historic landmarks.