How to spend one week in Croatia

This sun-drenched jewel of the Adriatic Sea has over 1,100 miles of coastline and over 1,200 islands—each with their own character. In this 7-day Croatia itinerary, you'll explore the country's most iconic experiences. You'll check out UNESCO World Heritage sites, sail to a few interesting islands, try local cuisine, and take in the relaxed pace of Croatian life. The guide follows a route from Split to Dubrovnik to keep your travel time low.
 

7 days in Croatia overview

If you're planning a trip to Croatia and only have a week, this 7-day itinerary hits the highlights — historic cities, coastal gems, and national parks — without wasting time. It’s a full schedule, but doable if you’re up for a bit of movement.

Want to take it slower? Just add a few days and follow the extended 10-day Croatia itinerary for a more relaxed pace.

• Day 1: Arrive in Split
• Day 2: Dalmatian cooking class
• Day 3: Island tour (Vis, Biševo & Hvar)
• Day 4: Dubrovnik via Korčula
• Day 5: Dubrovnik Old Town
• Day 6: Pelješac Peninsula wine tour
• Day 7: Depart from Dubrovnik

The best time to visit Croatia is usually from May to June or September to October. During these months, the weather tends to be pleasant, the crowds are smaller than in peak summer, and the Adriatic waters are still warm enough for a swim. That said, this itinerary could work for other parts of the year.
 

Day 1: Arrive in Split

After landing at Split airport, take a moment to relax before heading into the historic city center. There are many fantastic guided walking tours to get a feel for the old town, which I definitely recommend. While strolling, listen for live Klapa—traditional a cappella singing that’s a part of the city’s character and that’s fairly common to come across here, especially in the summer.

A must-see is Diocletian's Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman building with ancient walls and modern cafes tucked into the stone. You could also take a walk through the green market (Pazar) near the palace to experience the local atmosphere and see the fresh produce on display (and maybe grab a snack). Finish your day with dinner at a local konoba where you can try fresh Adriatic seafood and local Plavac Mali wine. I recommend Villa Spiza. Then, take a walk up Marjan Hill to see the sunset and get a view of the city.

Where to stay in Split

Split has a few neighborhoods, each with a different feel, so you can pick one that suits your style. For a more in-depth look at our guide to the best area to stay in Croatia,.

• Diocletian’s Palace Quarter: This area places you in the heart of historic Split with plenty of public buses and taxis nearby, making it easy to explore the rest of the city.
• Veli Varos: If you prefer a quieter setting, Veli Varos might work well for you. Its narrow streets and stone houses create a genuine local atmosphere, and you can catch a bus to see the main sites.
• Bacvice: Known for its beach and lively feel, Bacvice blends cultural sights with seaside relaxation. Frequent local transport makes it simple to get around and experience what Split has in store.
   

Day 2: Dalmatian cooking class

Taking a cooking class here is a straightforward way to get a real sense of local life, and it's exactly how you might spend day two of your trip. In Trogir, a small medieval town about 30 minutes from Split, you can choose a class run by locals like Tatjana, who holds hers in her 13th-century palace home. The class begins with a walk through a local green market to pick up fresh, seasonal ingredients. Then, you prepare traditional dishes like crni rižot (black risotto) and homemade seafood pasta, and you might also try local specialties such as peka, soparnik, and brudet. A small glass of travarica, a local herb brandy, rounds off your introduction to Dalmatian cuisine.

Once back in Split, take a chance to take a leisurely stroll along Split's famous waterfront promenade. In the evening, it comes alive with locals and visitors enjoying the sea breeze, street performers, and a vibrant atmosphere. Grab a gelato and people-watch as the sun sets.

Tips for booking a cooking class

When booking a cooking class in Split, it's wise to secure your spot in advance, especially during the busy season from June to August when spaces can fill up quickly.

Consider a class that includes a visit to the local market. This way, you can experience the local culture while working with fresh ingredients. Classes that focus on seasonal dishes tend to feel more authentic.

If you’re looking for a more personal setting, check out classes held in local homes rather than in commercial kitchens. This often makes the experience feel more relaxed and comfortable.

Most classes provide a printout of the recipe you prepared, but it's useful to take your own notes too—whether in a notebook or on your phone. See our guide for more Croatia travel advice.
 

Day 3: Vis, Biševo, and Hvar Islands

Start your day with a speedboat ride for a relaxed day of island hopping in the Adriatic (one of the best things to do in Croatia). Begin at the Blue Cave on Biševo Island—getting there early means fewer people while you enjoy how the sunlight creates a clear blue glow inside the cave. From there, you might want to head to Vis Island and visit Stiniva Beach, a quiet spot tucked behind steep cliffs with soft sand and clear water. Later, stop by the Pakleni Islands to check out a hidden cove with crystal-clear water, and wrap up with lunch on Hvar Island, where you might notice fields of lavender in the summer. Remember that ferry schedules can be busy during high season, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time. 

How to book a speedboat

There are a few ways to arrange a speedboat for your day trip. You can use established agencies like Adriatic-Transfer, GetYourGuide, or Viator, which include guided tours that cover the Blue Cave and other islands. Many hotels and vacation rentals can also set up speedboat trips, sometimes with pickup from a nearby pier. It’s wise to book early, check that the tour covers the islands you want to visit, and read the cancellation policy in case of bad weather.

Best beaches to look out for

The beaches on this route show you different sides of Croatia's coastline. From the blue glow inside an underwater cave to a quiet cove nestled between cliffs, each stop has its own character. The clear waters are also great for snorkeling, these are some of the best beaches in Croatia.

• Blue Cave, Biševo Island: This natural site uses sunlight to create a distinctive blue glow inside the cave. Visiting early lets you enjoy a calm atmosphere without the usual crowds.
• Stiniva Beach, Vis Island: Tucked behind steep cliffs, Stiniva Beach is a quiet place where you can enjoy soft sand and clear water in a more secluded setting.
• Hidden Cove, Pakleni Islands: A small cove on the Pakleni Islands, this spot is known for its crystal-clear water and relaxed vibe, making it a pleasant stop for a swim
• Dubovica Beach, Hvar Island: At Dubovica Beach, you’ll find a mix of sandy stretches and rocky outcrops with clear water, creating a laid-back environment to relax and take in the local scenery.

Day 4: Dubrovnik via Korčula

Travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes by catamaran from Split to Korčula; 2 hours from Korčula to Dubrovnik

After breakfast and an easy checkout, make your way to Split harbor to catch a catamaran heading for Dubrovnik. The ride includes a delightful stop at Korčula, where you can wander around a medieval walled town often nicknamed “Little Dubrovnik.” Its narrow streets, set in an ancient herringbone pattern, were designed to shield residents from the wind while inviting refreshing sea breezes in. While you're there, you might want to consider visiting the house believed to be Marco Polo’s childhood home. Enjoy this pleasant break before continuing your journey to Dubrovnik.

For dinner in Dubrovnik, try Restaurant Kopun in the Old Town. This place serves traditional Croatian cuisine, focusing on dishes made with "kopun" (capon). It’s located in the quiet Jezuit Square near the Jesuit Staircase, with outdoor seating that gives you a view of the Baroque Church of St. Ignatius.

How to book your catamaran

Book your catamaran tickets through Jadrolinija or Krilo, the main ferry operators in Croatia. It’s a good idea to secure your tickets at least 1-2 days in advance during the busy season. You can purchase them online on their official websites, at harbor ticket offices, or through some travel agencies in Split. The Split-Korčula-Dubrovnik route runs daily in the summer and less frequently in the off-season, with morning departures from Split's main harbor. Plan to arrive about 30 minutes before departure.
 

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Since Dubrovnik is a compact city, you’re never far from its key attractions, no matter where you stay. For more details, check out our guide to where to stay in Dubrovnik.

• Old Town Dubrovnik: Staying in the historic center means you'll be among narrow marble lanes, ancient fortifications, and cozy cafés. It’s a great way to stay close to the city’s main attractions.
• Lapad: This district has a laid-back coastal vibe with pleasant promenades, accessible beaches, and local eateries. It’s a practical choice if you enjoy a mix of natural surroundings and modern amenities.
• Ploce: Perched on a cliff with views over the Adriatic, Ploce is a quiet area that still keeps you near the heart of the city. It works well if you’re looking for a balance between calm surroundings and easy access to the lively Old Town.

Day 5: Dubrovnik's Old Town

Spend day 5 of this 7-day Croatia itinerary as a relaxed day exploring Dubrovnik’s medieval Old Town at your own pace. Start with the Franciscan Monastery, which houses one of Europe’s oldest working pharmacies—a place that has been part of the local community for centuries. 
Not far away, the Rector's Palace, which once served as the center of city government, shows what life was like during the days when Dubrovnik was an independent republic. In the Sponza Palace, now a museum, you can check out exhibits filled with historical documents, artwork, and everyday objects that give you a tangible sense of life in old Dubrovnik.

Another interesting stop is Onofrio's Fountain—a historic source of clean water wrapped in local folklore. One popular tradition is to touch one of the carved stone masks (gargoyles) on the fountain while making a wish, apparently to ensure good luck and a return visit to the city.

Taking time to explore these sites helps you connect with the area’s history in a tangible way, and are the best things to do in Dubrovnik. Later, enjoy a walk along the city walls; entering from the eastern side leads you on a quieter path with views of terracotta rooftops and the Adriatic Sea. In the evening, consider stopping by Buža Bar on the cliffs for a drink at sunset.
 

Day 6: Pelješac Peninsula wine tour

Travel time: 45 minutes by car from Dubrovnik (or organized wine tours are available from the city)

Spend your day six exploring the Pelješac peninsula and its famous wine scene. Start by checking out a few local wineries where you can sample Plavac Mali wines grown on steep, sunlit slopes that give the area its unique character. For many, wine tasting is in and of itself one of the reasons to visit Croatia. My personal favorite is Mario Bartulović’s boutique winery, where you’ll see how a blend of traditional methods and genuine passion for winemaking comes together to create exceptional wines.

As you travel between wineries, you'll discover interesting details about the region’s red wine heritage, including Dingač—Croatia’s first protected wine region. You might also see traditional salt harvesting and have a chance to sample some local olive oils. For lunch, try dishes like lamb under the bell or fresh oysters from Mali Ston Bay. Knoba Panorama is a personal favorite and has views over the vineyards and the Adriatic Sea, while Restaurant Kapetanova Kuća in Mali Ston is known for its fresh oysters and shellfish with a view of the bay where they come from.

What wineries to visit

The Pelješac peninsula is home to many respected wineries, most of which are family-owned and have been passed down through generations.

• Mario Bartulović Boutique Winery: Located in the heart of Pelješac, this winery blends traditional techniques with a modern touch. Their Plavac Mali wines, grown on sunlit, steep slopes, capture the local terroir well.
• Miloš Winery: Miloš Winery is known for its organic practices and small batch production of Plavac Mali wines. A visit here gives you a closer look at sustainable viticulture and the local winemaking process.
• Grgich Winery: Founded by a winemaker with experience in Napa Valley, Grgich Winery brings international insight to Croatian winemaking. Their Plavac Mali wines are crafted with care, balancing tradition and innovation.
• Dingač Cellars: Located in Croatia’s first protected wine region, Dingač Cellars focuses on red wines that reflect the rugged terrain and strong sunlight of the area. Their wines capture the spirit of Pelješac in a distinctive style.

Day 7: Dubrovnik departure

Start your final morning with breakfast at your hotel before heading to Dubrovnik airport. If you find a little extra time, you might pick up some souvenirs like Croatian olive oil, lavender products, or local wines. Non-EU visitors could be eligible for VAT refunds, so it’s a good idea to hold on to your receipts. If you want one last view of the area, consider a quick trip to Lokrum Island or a cable car ride up Mount Srđ.

How to get to the airport

There are a few practical ways to reach Dubrovnik Airport (DBV). The most budget-friendly method is the Airport Shuttle Bus, which departs from Pile Gate and the main bus station. The ride takes about 30 minutes and costs roughly 7-10 euros. For a direct route, taxis can take you from your door to the terminal in around 25 minutes, with fares usually between 30-40 euros, though you might be able to negotiate a better price. Public buses like lines 11 and 27 go close to the airport, and you would need to walk a short distance from the stop to the terminal. Just keep in mind that during peak season, travel times may be a bit longer. For more details, see our guide to getting to Croatia.

Ready to see Croatia? 

Ready to explore? If you're working on your itinerary, you might be wondering where to start or how to plan your trip to Croatia. 
We can help by taking care of the planning and booking so you can focus on enjoying your journey. Our luxury tailor-made holidays are planned by local travel experts who know the area well, and they can be adjusted to fit your interests. Or see our Croatia itineraries for inspiration.