How to Spend 8 Days in Croatia: The Best Croatia Itinerary
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Whether you plan to spend 8 days in Croatia (more time or less), this Croatia 8 day itinerary is packed full of great travel planning inspiration!
Seeing some of the most historic sites throughout the country as well as taking in some natural beauty as well. You’ll be sure to have the best road trip itinerary throughout Croatia in 8 days (or more or less!)
Use this Croatia travel guide to inspire your travels, but you know you best. If you’re more of a pack-it-all-in type of person (like I am!) or if you like to move along at a more leisurely pace.
About Croatia
Croatia is a country located on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe. It’s located across the Adriatic Sea from Italy bordered by Slovenia to the north, Italy to the north (and west), and Bosnia and Montenegro to the East and Southeast. It has a population of about 4 million people and its capital city is Zagreb. Croatia is a member of the European Union, NATO, and the United Nations. The official language of Croatia is Croatian. Although many locals will speak English.
Croatia is a beautiful country with a rich history and culture. It is home to many stunning beaches, mountains, and forests. Croatia is also a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, delicious food, and friendly people.
If you are looking for a beautiful, historic, and friendly country to visit, Croatia is a great choice! Let’s review how to spend an 8 days in Croatia itinerary.
8 days in Croatia
8 days is a great amount of time to road trip throughout the country of Croatia! However, it’s very easy to explore Croatia for 10 days or more. There’s so much to see and do after spending 8 days in Croatia you’ll be planning your next trip to return!
From the bustling capital, National Parks, and medieval coastal cities along the Adriatic Sea let’s dive into the details of how to spend 8 days in Croatia on a Road trip. (Renting a car and driving around.)
Getting to Croatia
Depending on where you’re originating from prior to arriving in Croatia you can get here via several different transportation means.
There are several ways to get to Croatia. When spending 8 days in Croatia, the most common way to arrive is by plane. There are several international airports in Croatia, including Zagreb Airport, Split Airport, and Dubrovnik Airport.
You can also get to Croatia by train, bus, or car. There are several train and bus routes that connect Croatia to other European countries. If you are driving to Croatia, you might need to take a ferry to cross the Adriatic Sea.
Croatia travel tips
- Book your flights or tickets in advance, especially during the peak season (June-August).
- If you are driving to Croatia, make sure your car is in good condition and that you have all the necessary documents.
- Be aware of the different time zones in Croatia. Croatia is one hour ahead of Central European Time.
- Exchange your currency before you travel! Croatia’s currency is the Croatian kuna but euros are also accepted. Most places will take cards but, having a small amount of the local currency is a good idea.
- Get a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses and lost luggage.
- Pack light clothing, as the weather in Croatia is warm and sunny most of the year.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially in popular tourist destinations.
- Learn a few basic Croatian phrases before you travel.
Best time to visit Croatia
The best time (and busiest time) is between the summer months of June through August. The heat is intense as are the crowds. If you want to spend a significant amount of time on the beautiful beaches or on the water exploring the islands of Croatia, this is the best time for those adventures! You’ll have plenty to do when spending 8 days in Croatia.
The weather is still lovely in April/May and also September. I would recommend traveling during one of those months to beat the crowds. Personally, that’s usually what I do. Shoulder seasons are my preference to beat some of the crowds and for it not to be sweltering hot yet. We visited at the end of April and early May and it was plenty warm. I learned the hard way and ended up getting sunburnt!
Weather in Croatia
The weather in Croatia is generally Mediterranean, with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The coastal areas are the warmest and driest, while the interior is cooler and wetter. The best time to visit Croatia is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists but many flock to this country along the Adriatic in the summer months to spend time near and on the water.
After spending 8 days in Croatia during the spring months of April and May, only one day it rained otherwise it was gorgeous and even got warmer than I had anticipated!
Weather by season in Croatia:
- Summer (June-August): The summer months are the warmest and driest in Croatia. Temperatures average around 25°C (77°F) on the coast and 20°C (68°F) in the interior. There is little rain during the summer, making it an excellent time for swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.
- Spring (April-May): The spring months are a great time to visit Croatia if you want to avoid the crowds and the heat of summer. The weather is mild, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 20°C (68°F). There is also less rain than in the summer, making it a good time for hiking and exploring the countryside.
- Fall (September-October): The fall months are similar to the spring months, with mild temperatures and little rain. However, the crowds are starting to return, so if you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit Croatia earlier in the fall.
- Winter (November-March): The winter months are the coldest and wettest in Croatia. Temperatures average around 10°C (50°F) on the coast and 5°C (41°F) in the interior. There is a lot of rain during the winter, so it’s not the best time for swimming or sunbathing. However, it is a great time for skiing and snowboarding in the mountains.
Getting around Croatia
Croatia is a relatively small country, so getting around by car, bus, or train is easy. There are also many ferries that connect the islands to the mainland.
If you are planning on doing a lot of traveling, it may be worth renting a car. If you’re planning on spending 8 days in Croatia (or more), renting a car will probably be your best bet! This will give you the freedom to explore at your own pace and stop wherever you want. Some cities have better parking situations than others. Zadar and Split were a little dicey! Always remember to check with your accommodation in advance if there is reserved parking available that is free or included with your stay.
However, if you only plan on visiting a few places, public transportation is a good option. Buses and trains are relatively affordable and connect most of the major cities and towns. Public transport is ideal for solo travelers and budget-conscious travelers.
There are also many taxis available, but they can be expensive. Uber is available in most cities in Croatia and is generally reasonably priced.
Additional Tips for Traveling Around Croatia:
- If you are renting a car, be sure to get one with air conditioning, as it can get very hot in the summer.
- When taking public transportation, be sure to have the correct change, as many buses and trains do not accept credit cards.
- If you are planning on taking a ferry, be sure to book your tickets in advance, as they can sell out quickly.
- Croatia is a hilly country, so be prepared for winding roads!
- Enjoy the scenery! Croatia is a beautiful country with much to offer visitors.
- Google Maps will serve you just fine as a navigation tool
Where to go: Itinerary 8 days in Croatia
Whether you’re spending a week in Croatia, or a little more than that 8 days or more here are some great locations in Croatia to build the perfect itinerary for your Croatian vacation. We’ll review the following locations (as well as inspiration of what to do): Zagreb, Plitvice Lakes, Zadar, Krka National Park, Split, Hvar Island, and Dubrovnik.
Zagreb
Zagreb is the capital city of Croatia located in the northwest of the country, at the confluence of the Sava and Ljubljanica rivers. Filled with historic sites, great food, and craft beer you can spend one day in Zagreb as the first stop on your Croatian adventures or the last stop before heading back home.
There is so much to see and do, you can spend two to three days in Zagreb out of your 8 days in Croatia. Let’s review some of the main sights and things to see in the city.
Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square
Spending one full day in Zagreb, you’ll want to explore some of the main sights of the city. Start the day by heading to the main commercial square, Trg bana Josipa Jelačića Square. The tram runs through this area and it is bustling with many people and shops. Next up, the funicular is located a short walk away.
Zagreb Funicular
The funicular in Zagreb connects the lower town (Donji grad) with the upper town (Gornji grad). The funicular is 66 meters long and has a vertical rise of 36 meters. It takes about 60 seconds to travel between the two stations.
Zagreb’s funicular was built in 1890 and is one of the oldest funiculars in the world. It is a popular tourist attraction and is also used by locals as a means of transportation. Plan ahead! You need cash to purchase a ticket for the funicular, they do not accept payment by card!
St. Mark’s Church Zagreb
St. Mark’s Church is a medieval church located in the upper town of Zagreb, Croatia. It is the second most important Croatian church (after the Cathedral of Zagreb). The church is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist and is the seat of the Archbishop of Zagreb.
It was built in the 13th century and has since been rebuilt several times. The current building is a Gothic Revival structure that was built in the 19th century. The church is famous for its colorful tiled roof, which features the coats of arms of Croatia, Dalmatia, Slavonia, and Istria.
St. Mark’s Church is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zagreb. It is a beautiful example of Croatian architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
There are many interesting facts about the church. The church is built on the site of a pagan temple. The bell tower of the church is the tallest building in Zagreb. The interior is decorated with frescoes by the Croatian painter Ivan Meštrović. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Grič Tunnel
Grič Tunnel, also known as Tunel Grič, is a road tunnel in Zagreb, Croatia. It is located under the Gradec hill, connecting the city center with the lower parts of the city. The tunnel is 266 meters long and 8 meters wide, and it has two lanes in each direction.
It was built in 1930, and it was the first tunnel in Zagreb. The tunnel is named after the Grič neighborhood, which is located above it. The tunnel is a popular tourist destination, and it is also used by commuters. It is open 24 hours a day, and there is no charge to use it. It can be quite eerie. When we walked through it it echoed a lot and there wasn’t a lot of foot traffic at that time.
Lotrscak Tower
Lotrščak Tower is a medieval fort in Zagreb, Croatia. It was built in the 13th century and is located at the top of Gradec, one of the two historical towns that make up Zagreb. The tower is 27 meters tall and has a clock and a bell. It is open to the public and offers panoramic views of Zagreb.
Lotrščak Tower has a long and interesting history. It was originally built as a defensive tower, but it has also been used as a prison, a mint, and a museum. The tower is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who was once imprisoned there.
Lotrščak Tower is a popular tourist destination and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Zagreb. It is a great place to learn about the history of the city and to enjoy stunning views. The most popular time to visit is noon when the cannon is shot.
Stone Gate
Located near St. Marks Church is Stone Gate. The Stone Gate (Croatian: Kamenita vrata) is a medieval city gate located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, Croatia. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city and a popular tourist destination.
The gate was built in the 13th century and is one of the few remaining medieval gates in Croatia. It is made of stone and has two towers, one of which is taller than the other. The gate is decorated with a variety of sculptures and reliefs, including a depiction of the Croatian coat of arms.
The Stone Gate has been through a lot of history and has been damaged several times, but it has always been rebuilt. It is now a protected monument and is open to the public. As you pass through the gate you will see that it’s set up as a shrine.
Zagreb Cathedral
Zagreb Cathedral is the largest church in Croatia. It is located in the Upper Town of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. The cathedral is dedicated to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. It was built in the Gothic style and is one of the most important landmarks in Zagreb.
The cathedral was built in the 13th century, but it was destroyed by an earthquake in 1880. It was rebuilt in the Neo-Gothic style and was consecrated in 1906. The cathedral is 105 meters long and 32 meters wide. It has two towers, each of which is 91 meters tall. The cathedral is a popular tourist destination and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Opatovina Beer Street
Opatovina Beer Street is a street in Zagreb, Croatia, that is home to many bars and breweries. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come to enjoy the wide variety of beers on offer. This street is known for its lively atmosphere and many outdoor seating areas.
Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to try a variety of different beers from Croatia and around the world. There are also many restaurants on the street that serve traditional Croatian cuisine. Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to relax and enjoy a few beers with friends or family. It is also a great place to people-watch and experience the local culture.
Opatovina Beer Street is a great place to enjoy a few beers and experience the local culture. It is a lively and vibrant street with something to offer everyone.
Museums in Zagreb
Zagreb is home to many museums, each with its own unique collection and history. With so many to choose from, there is sure to be a museum that interests everyone.
Zagreb also has a number of smaller museums that focus on specific topics, such as the Museum of Broken Relationships, the Museum of Illusions, and the Museum of Torture.
Plitvice Lakes
Plitvice Lakes is a stunning National Park. With tiered lakes and waterfalls throughout the park, it’s unlike any waterfall you’ve ever seen. I’m a sucker for waterfalls and waterfall hikes but this was truly a sight to behold!
There are many hotels close to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Depending on which entrance you’re planning on visiting from will help to determine where you should stay. We stayed at Hotel Jezero and it was so close to entrance 2 and perfect for exploring the park for a few days. Be aware, if you visit during high season (June-August) this hotel does not have air conditioning!
Spend at least a day at Plitvice Lakes. Or better yet two days out of 8 days in Croatia. If you aren’t taking a road trip throughout Croatia, you can choose to do a tour from Zagreb, Zadar, or Split to visit the beautiful National Park during a day trip.
But, if you’re road-tripping through Croatia (like we did!) after Plitvice Lakes drive to Zadar and spend some time in the northern coastal city.
Zadar
The city of Zadar is more compact yet has a lot of similarities to its southern neighbor, Split. Zadar was a lot quieter and especially when getting up earlier in the morning, we had many places mostly to ourselves. It’s very easy to visit Zadar in one day.
Zadar is definitely worth spending at least a day exploring the medieval coastal town. There is a lot to see and do, you can spend two to three days in Zadar beyond just the one day we were there. Let’s review some of the main sights and things to do in Zadar:
Gates of Zadar
Old Town Zadar is surrounded by ancient gates. The Sea Gate and Land Gate are truly a sight to see. Gorgeous structures with Venetian influence reflect the influence of Venitians in Zadar’s history.
Sea Organ
I don’t like to play favorites, but the sea organ along the Adriatic Sea was probably my favorite thing about Zadr. It was up there with the Roman Forum Ruins. Seriously so unique and calming. The Sea Organ “plays” a tune as the waves wash up onto it. This is a must-see when visiting Zadar!
Greeting to the Sun
Right next to the Sea Organ along the promenade by the sea in Zadar is the Greeting to the Sun (or sun salutation), a monument on the south end of the waterfront. This monument is comprised of 300 photo sensitive glass plates that absorb the sunlight.
Statue of Špiro Brusina
Continue farther along the walkway or promenade near the sea to the statue of Spiro Brusina. The statue features a man seated staring into a shell. He is a prominent Croatian natural scientist and zoologist dedicated to studying and promoting environmental protection. So he was a leave no trace advocate before it was a thing!
Roman Forum
Scattered throughout the Old Town area is the historic landmark that are casually sitting nearby more modern sidewalks in the highly trafficked area of Zadar. They date back to the first century BC and the 3rd century AD. While in Zadar it’s worth a stroll through these historic stone ruins just a hop and skip away from the beautiful sea front.
Church of St. Donatus
Flanking the Roman Ruins in Zadar is the Church of St. Donatus. It’s within the central historic part of the city of Zadar. Close by is the bell tower and St. Anastasia’s Cathedral. All of these can be seen near the centrally located historic Roman Ruins of Zadar.
To read more about where to eat and drink, where to stay, and park in Zadar. More details are in my One day in Zadar post! From Zadar, en route to Split stop and spend a day or partial day at Krka National Park.
Krka National Park
When getting to Krka National Park the Lozovak entrance is the main entrance to the park. There isn’t much parking near the entrance so plan ahead! But, you’ll notice many of the restaurants and establishments in nearby Skradin will advertise parking available.
Depending on what type of activities and things you want to see in Krka National Park you can visit in 4-5 hours, a full day, or over the course of several days and stay in nearby Skradin. It’s worth at least a partial day during 8 days in Croatia.
Let’s review some of the main things to do with One Day in Krka National Park:
Skradinski Buk Waterfall
Skradinski Buk is a waterfall on the Krka River in Krka National Park. It is the largest of the 17 waterfalls on the river and is a popular tourist attraction in Croatia. The waterfall is 17 meters high and 80 meters wide.
The waterfall is made up of a series of cascades that flow over limestone cliffs. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including deer, bears, and wolves. It is also a popular destination for hiking, swimming, and fishing.
Skradinski Buk is a beautiful and impressive waterfall that is well worth a visit. The waterfall is located in a stunning natural setting and is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Croatia.
Krka Monastery
Krka Monastery is a Serbian Orthodox monastery located in the Krka National Park in Croatia. The Krka monastery was founded in the 14th century and it is one of the most important monasteries in Croatia. Krka monastery is known for its beautiful architecture and frescoes, some of the best examples of Serbian Orthodox art. The monastery is also home to a library of over 10,000 manuscripts.
It’s located on the banks of the Krka River. The monastery is open to the public; visitors can tour the grounds and see the frescoes. To get here, you will have to ride a boat within Krka National Park.
Roski Slap Waterfall
There are many different ways to travel throughout Krka National Park. But having a car will definitely make it a lot easier to get around. We spent about 5 hours in the park. Most of the things to see within the park we drove to. But we also rented some e-bikes to get to the Skradinski Buk Waterfall hiking loop faster.
You can choose to take boats throughout the park as well. If you want to actually go to the monastery, you will have to access it via a boat. We just chose to see it from the overlook.
After spending a day in Krka National Park, make your way to Split which is just under an hour’s drive from the main entrance of the park to the heart of the coastal city of Split, Croatia. It’s also an option if you aren’t renting a car, to take a day trip to Krka from Split once you’re there.
Let’s move on to the next location in Croatia for your 8 day itinerary, Split!
Split
Split is a very vibrant and fun city. There is an Old Town area where you can explore ancient sites as well as a bustling port area.
Ferries and day trips leave daily from the port in Split making it a perfect destination to explore beyond for a day or two. Be sure to include a ferry or day trip on a boat into your Split itinerary.
Let’s review some of the top things to do in Split for a week (or more) in Croatia.
Diocletian’s Palace
Known as the main sight to see within Old Town Split, Diocletian’s Palace covers almost half of the area known as Old Town. Technically you can explore the area all the time aside from the dungeons below, the bell tower and church have specific opening hours. The dungeons were awesome! I’d definitely recommend it.
When we visited, we looked at the landmarks in Old Town both at night and during the early morning & day. At night, many the historic monuments were lit up with an eerie moon glowing in the distance. I definitely recommend exploring during different times of the day.
Marjan Hill
Otherwise referred to as Marjan Forest Park. You will need a car to get here. There are also tours to guide you as well.
This is a little outside of the city center area of Split. It’s so worth it for the stunning view! We chose to do this as we were leaving Split. There is a bit of a staircase for part of the hike and it will take a little over two hours to climb.
Kliss Fortress
The Kliss fortress sits above the city of Split. The very last thing before leaving Split was visit the fortress. Kliss was used as the city of Mereen in the HBO series Game of Thrones.
Views out over Split to the Adriatic Sea are abundant! It’s so gorgeous and well worth a last stop from Split to Dubrovnik.
Hvar
While in Split, we also spent a day on the island of Hvar. Originally we were planning on having a boat tour but it was cancelled due to weather. It rained a little bit in the morning but then it was a gorgeous day. Our day on Hvar ended up being my favorite of everywhere we went throughout Croatia.
You can get to Hvar easily via ferry from Split. Visiting Hvar is possible for a day or you could spend a few nights there. There’s a lot to explore on Hvar! Let’s review some of the top things the island of Hvar is known for.
Hvar Wine
Our afternoon comprised of a wine tour. We went to two local wineries on the island of Hvar and got to sit down with the winemakers and chat with them. It truly was an experience I’ll never forget. It wasn’t anything like the uppity wine experiences in other wine regions, it was so authentic.
We sat around our wine tastings and talked about very real things and questions we both had about the USA and living in Croatia. Things that you would only know by connecting with a local on a very real level. These are the type of experiences that aren’t being a tourist but rather a traveler seeking to learn from the countries you experience.
Lavender Fields
The lavender fields on Hvar Island are best in June and July. Lavender fields are a sight to behold. The rows of purple flowers stretching as far as the eye can see are a beautiful sight.
The smell of lavender is also very calming and relaxing. Lavender fields are often used for their beauty and their therapeutic properties. Hvar’s lavender fields are a popular tourist attraction. They are also a popular spot for relaxation and meditation.
The majority of the lavender fields on Hvar are located in Zastražišće, Gdinj, Bogomolje, Brusje, Grablje, and along the road from Stari Grad to Hvar town. Lavender fields are a great place to take a walk, have a picnic, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. They are also a great place to take pictures. If you are ever lucky enough to visit a lavender field on Hvar, be sure to take your time and enjoy the experience.
Beaches on Hvar
Hvar is an island in Croatia that is known for its beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches on Hvar include:
- Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn): This beach is located on the southern tip of Hvar and is known for its unique shape, which resembles a golden horn.
- Milna Beach: This beach is located on the western coast of Hvar and is known for its calm waters and crystal-clear sea.
- Sucuraj Beach: This beach is located on the eastern coast of Hvar and is known for its stunning views of the Pakleni Islands.
These are just a few of the many beautiful beaches that can be found on Hvar. Whether you are looking for a secluded cove or a lively beach with plenty of amenities, you are sure to find the perfect beach on Hvar.
Nightlife Hvar
Nightlife in Hvar is vibrant and exciting, with something to offer everyone. There are many bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from, as well as live music and DJs. The nightlife scene in Hvar is known for being lively and fun, and it is a great place to let loose and have a good time.
Here are some of the popular nightlife spots in Hvar:
- Carpe Diem Beach Bar: This beach bar is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The beach bar is known for its lively atmosphere, great music, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea.
- Hula Hula Beach Bar: This beach bar is another popular spot for nightlife in Hvar. Most well-known for its laid-back atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and fun events.
- Kiva Bar: This bar is a great place to go for live music and dancing. Kiva Bar is known for its eclectic mix of music, friendly atmosphere, and late-night hours.
- Culture Club Revelin: This club is a great place to go for a night out dancing. This club draws crowds due to the large dance floor, powerful sound system, and international DJs.
- The Garden: This club is a great place to go for a night out with friends. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, delicious cocktails, and friendly staff.
No matter what you are looking for in a nightlife experience, Hvar has something to offer! So come and experience the vibrant nightlife scene for yourself!
Croatian Islands
If you have more time in Croatia than a week or 8 days, add on a few day trips or extensions to some Croatian islands. You can access some from Zadar but a majority are easier to get to from the port town of Split.
Croatia is home to over 1,000 islands, islets, and reefs. The largest island is Krk, followed by Cres, Hvar, Brač, and Pag. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, clear waters, and lush vegetation. These islands are popular tourist destinations which makes sense since they offer a variety of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, hiking, biking, and sailing.
These are some of the most popular Croatian islands:
- Brač: Brač is the most popular island in Croatia, known for its beautiful beaches, including Zlatni Rat (Golden Horn), which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
- Hvar: Hvar is known for its nightlife, its beautiful scenery, including the Pakleni Islands, a group of islands off the coast of Hvar.
- Korčula: Korčula is known for its medieval architecture, including the town of Korčula, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Mljet: Mljet is a national park, known for its dense forests, lakes, and beaches. It can be a little bit cumbersome to get here. It’s somewhat between the cities of Split and Dubrovnik.
- Vis: Vis is a remote island, known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
Dubrovnik
If you have a Croatia itinerary 8 days, more or less, Dubrovnik is the ultimate destination in Croatia. Sitting along the Adriatic Sea with history, ocean views, an Old Town surrounded by city walls, and nearby areas where you can relax on the beach and enjoy panoramic views, Dubrovnik has it all!
Out of all of the cities we visited in Croatia, Dubrovnik is the least budget travel friendly. (Especially if you plan to stay in Old Town.)
Here are some things to include in your Dubrovnik 2 day itinerary.
City walls
The Dubrovnik City Walls are a series of defensive stone walls that surround the city of Dubrovnik, Croatia. The walls are 1940 meters long, 25 meters high, and up to 6 meters thick. They were built in the 13th century and have been well-preserved. The walls are a popular tourist destination and offer stunning views of the city and the Adriatic Sea.
The walls were built to protect the city from invaders. They were successful in this task, as the city was never conquered during its long history. The walls were also used to control trade and commerce in the city.
The walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Croatia.
Stradun
The Stradun, also known as Placa, is the main street in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, Croatia. It is a popular tourist destination and is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The street is also home to many historical buildings, including the Rector’s Palace, the Sponza Palace, and the Church of St. Blaise.
Stradun is a pedestrian street and is closed to traffic. It is a popular place for walking, shopping, and people-watching. The street is also a popular spot for taking pictures.
Rector’s Palace
Rector’s Palace is a palace in Dubrovnik, Croatia. It was the seat of the Rector, the elected head of the city-state of Ragusa (Dubrovnik) from 1358 to 1808.
The palace is located in the heart of the city, on the Stradun, the main street. It is a large, rectangular building with a central courtyard. The exterior of the palace is decorated with Renaissance and Baroque architecture. The interior of the palace is decorated with frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
Rector’s Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most important historical buildings in Dubrovnik. The palace is a symbol of the city’s independence and culture. It is a must-see for any visitor to Dubrovnik!
Walking Tour
Much of Dubrovnik’s popularity is due to the HBO series Game of Thrones. There are many recognizable landmarks from the show. In Dubrovnik, there are many Game of Thrones tours that take you to all of the sites and provide additional context. If you enjoy the show, I’d definitely recommend taking one of these tours.
There are several other more general walking tours in Dubrovnik to hear about the city and its history.
Dubrovnik Cable Car
Although the cable car was something we didn’t do in Dubrovnik, it’s a very popular attraction. You can alternatively take an Uber to see the same view for about half of the price! That’s what we chose to do.
FAQs: 8 days in Croatia
How many days in Croatia?
Spend at least three to four days of a long weekend in Croatia. During that time you should be able to explore at least a few different cities and regions. However, 7 days or more is better as you can truly cover a lot of ground and see the vastly different areas all over Croatia.
Should I visit Italy and Croatia together?
Yes! Depending on how much time you have a trip to both Italy and Croatia is definitely doable! You could start in Rome and visit Florence then head to Venice and take a ferry to Croatia from Venice. It would be a great way to visit both countries and get a taste of Italy and Croatia.
Is it safe to rent a car in Croatia?
Yes, it is safe to rent a car in Croatia. The roads are well-maintained and the traffic laws are generally followed. Overall, renting a car in Croatia is a safe and convenient way to get around the country. Just be sure to be aware of the local laws and regulations and drive safely.
How many days in Split and Dubrovnik?
Two days in Split and two days in Dubrovnik. You can easily spend more time in Split than in Dubrovnik due to the close proximity of so many islands and day trips that are much closer such as Krka National Park. You could easily spend 5 to 6 days between the two depending on what you want to do.
What to do in Croatia for a week?
Spend some time in the capital city of Zagreb, the coastal towns of Split and Dubrovnik, and be sure to visit a National Park. (Either Plitvice Lakes or Krka National Park!) Take a ferry or a boat day tour from Split to explore nearby islands and enjoy the beautiful Adriatic Sea.
Final Thoughts: 8 days in Croatia
Whether you have a full week or a little over (8 days) in Croatia you can see so many vastly different landscapes and experience the vibrant Balkan culture the country has to offer. In conclusion, some of the main cities and locations to explore throughout Croatia include:
It’s a lot to fit into 8 days, but in true WanderLust in Real Life fashion, I pack the itineraries to the brim wanting to make the most of all the time in any country or location. This itinerary could easily be expanded to help you plan how to spend 10 days in Croatia. You can’t realistically do everything in one trip but this truly is the best itinerary for Croatia.
I hope this has helped to inspire your Croatia vacation itinerary for a week (or any amount of time really!) Be sure to check out our WanderLust in Real Life YouTube Channel highlighting videos from our travels in Croatia.
