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Croatia Travel Guide

From Zagreb to Dubrovnik: Our Croatia (& Slovenia) Adventure

By Eddie Johnson on June 2, 2026

This two-week itinerary explores the best of Croatia and Slovenia, visiting historic cities, stunning coastlines, and some of Europe's most beautiful natural scenery. Starting and ending in Zagreb, this trip offers a relaxed pace with plenty of time to explore each destination.

Zagreb (3 Nights)

Begin your journey in Croatia's vibrant capital, a city filled with old town squares, narrow streets, cozy cafés, and a welcoming local charm. Spend time wandering through the Upper Town, visiting Ban Jelačić Square, and exploring the Dolac Market and museums.

One of the highlights was a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia's most famous natural attraction. Take the early morning FlixBus from Zagreb bus station directly to the park to beat the crowds. Wander along the wooden boardwalks that wind past a series of turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls, creating one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Europe.

Ljubljana (3 Nights)

Next, take the FlixBus to Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital. Known for its walkable old town, relax at one of the cafes or wine bars along the river. Take a stroll across the city's iconic bridges, ride the funicular to Ljubljana Castle, and explore the narrow cobblestone streets that make the city so magical.

A short bus trip to explore Lake Bled is a must. Take a walk up to the hilltop castle for panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The lake’s tiny island and church create one of Slovenia's most recognizable and photographed scenes. It’s worth taking the time to walk around the lake and stop for pictures from different vantage points.

Split (2 Nights)

Take a FlixBus back to Zagreb for a quick flight on Croatia Airlines to Split. This lively coastal city is built around Diocletian's Palace, surrounded by ancient Roman walls, with hidden courtyards, waterfront cafés, and bustling markets. Split is one of the most popular cities on the Adriatic.

Spend your time wandering the historic center, relaxing along the Riva promenade, and soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere before continuing to the islands.

Korčula (1 Night)

Book a TP Line ferry ticket for a scenic catamaran ride to the island of Korčula, often nicknamed “Little Dubrovnik.” Korčula is best known for its beautifully preserved medieval old town, its connection to Marco Polo, excellent white wines made from the indigenous Grk and Pošip grapes, crystal-clear Adriatic waters, and a relaxed island atmosphere that combines history, beaches, and authentic Dalmatian culture.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring narrow stone streets, waterfront restaurants, and historic squares before spending the night on one of Croatia's most beautiful islands.

Dubrovnik (4 Nights)

Hop back on the TP Line ferry for a scenic ride to Dubrovnik, where centuries-old walls surround one of Europe's most spectacular historic centers. Wander through the limestone streets of the Old Town, explore churches and palaces, and enjoy stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.

Consider purchasing the Dubrovnik City Pass for access to the city walls, museums, and public transportation. One of the best experiences is walking the famous Walls of Dubrovnik, early in the morning or a few hours before sunset, when the crowds are thin. Other highlights include exploring the beautiful beaches and botanical gardens of Lokrum island and visiting the charming seaside town of Cavtat by water taxi.

Final Night in Zagreb

Take a quick flight to Zagreb for one final evening in Croatia before flying home. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy a Croatian meal at La Štruk, do some last minute souvenir shopping at Crošara, and reflect on your travels.

Where to Stay in Zagreb

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel – A Zagreb landmark since 1925, the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel blends historic art nouveau elegance with modern luxury, offering exceptional dining, impeccable service, and a prime location just steps from the city's main square, parks, and train station.
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel – Just a short walk from Zagreb's historic center, Sheraton Zagreb Hotel offers spacious rooms, full-service amenities, and a comfortable upscale stay with easy access to the city's top attractions, restaurants, and shopping districts.
Hotel Dubrovnik – Located right on Zagreb's main square, Hotel Dubrovnik puts you in the heart of the action, with cafés, restaurants, markets, and many of the city's top attractions just a short walk from your front door.
Amadria Park Hotel Capital – Set inside a beautifully renovated Art Deco landmark, Amadria Park Hotel Capital offers upscale accommodations, elegant design, and an ideal location within easy walking distance of Zagreb's Old Town highlights.
Hotel Jägerhorn - Nestled in the heart of Zagreb's historic Upper Town, Hotel Jägerhorn combines old-world charm with modern comforts, offering a peaceful garden retreat just steps from Ban Jelačić Square, the funicular, and the city's top attractions.

Where to Stay in Split

Cornaro Hotel – Located just steps from the walls of Diocletian's Palace, Cornaro Hotel combines modern luxury with an unbeatable location, featuring stylish rooms, excellent dining, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views over Split's historic center.
Heritage Hotel Antique Split – Tucked inside the ancient walls of Diocletian's Palace, Heritage Hotel Antique Split offers a unique blend of Roman history and modern comfort, placing guests in the heart of Split's UNESCO-listed Old Town.
Piazza Heritage Hotel – Located just steps from Diocletian’s Palace, Piazza Heritage Hotel is a stylish boutique stay set on a lively square in Split’s Old Town, offering modern comfort in an unbeatable historic location.
Judita Palace Heritage Hotel – Set on one of Split's most picturesque squares within Diocletian's Palace, Judita Palace Heritage Hotel combines historic charm, elegant rooms, and personalized service in the heart of the Old Town.
Murum Boutique Hotel – Located within the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace, Hotel Murum offers a boutique stay blending contemporary design with ancient stone surroundings, placing guests just steps from Split’s Riva promenade, restaurants, and historic landmarks

Where to Stay in Korčula

Aminess Younique Korčula Heritage Hotel – Set right on the waterfront just steps from Korčula’s Old Town, Aminess Younique Korčula Heritage Hotel offers a charming heritage-style stay with elegant rooms, excellent service, and easy access to the island’s historic streets, ferries, and seaside cafés.
Aminess Liburna Hotel – Perched on Korčula’s waterfront just a short walk from the Old Town, Aminess Liburna Hotel offers spacious sea-view accommodations, an outdoor pool, and stunning Adriatic vistas, making it an ideal base for exploring the island.
San Teodoro Boutique Hotel – Located in the heart of Korčula Old Town, San Teodoro Boutique Hotel blends historic charm with stylish, individually decorated rooms, offering a welcoming base just steps from the island’s waterfront, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.
Marko Polo Maradiso Hotel By Aminess – Overlooking the Adriatic Sea and just a short walk from Korčula Old Town, Marko Polo Maradiso Hotel by Aminess offers comfortable accommodations, a relaxing pool area, and beautiful waterfront views, making it a great base for exploring the island.
Korcula Hill – Set on a scenic bay just outside Korčula Old Town, Korčula Hill offers spacious modern apartments with panoramic Adriatic views, easy beach access, and resort-style amenities, making it an excellent choice for families and longer island stays.

Where to Stay in Dubrovnik

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – Perched on Dubrovnik’s waterfront just steps from the historic Old Town, Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik is a luxury seaside retreat offering breathtaking Adriatic views, elegant accommodations, and world-class dining and spa experiences.
The Pucić Palace – Set within a beautifully restored 18th-century Baroque palace in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, The Pucić Palace combines historic elegance, luxury accommodations, and exceptional service just steps from the city’s iconic landmarks.
Soleil Luxury Rooms Old Town Dubrovnik – Located in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Soleil Luxury Rooms Old Town Dubrovnik offers stylish, modern accommodations in a historic setting, with soundproofed rooms and easy access to the city’s iconic landmarks, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
Villa 5db – Located within Dubrovnik’s historic Old Town, Villa 5db is a stylish boutique guesthouse offering individually designed rooms, modern comforts, and an unbeatable location just steps from the city’s iconic landmarks, restaurants, and medieval streets.
Rilati Old Town Palace – Nestled in the heart of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, Rilati Old Town Palace offers elegant, contemporary rooms within a historic stone building, providing a comfortable and convenient base just steps from the city’s famous walls, shops, and restaurants.