Your 7-Day Dubrovnik & Split, Croatia Itinerary
Walls of Dubrovnik · Stradun · Lokrum Island · Dubrovnik Cable Car · Diocletian's Palace · Marjan Hill
7-day Croatia trip — Dubrovnik to Split. Day-by-day route, attractions & food.
Part one
Is this trip for you?
Dubrovnik and Split offer Croatia's most iconic coastal history and architecture, from Dubrovnik's medieval fortified Old Town to Split's living Roman Diocletian's Palace. This pairing over a Northern Croatia route (like Istria) ensures direct access to the clear Adriatic for sea kayaking and island excursions, which Istria's more Roman-influenced interior lacks. Together, they provide both a preserved medieval city-state experience and an ancient imperial residence adapted into a modern city.
Your itinerary covers 13 must-have experiences
Walking the Historic City Walls
✓ Day 1: Walking the Historic City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac
Exploring Dubrovnik's Old Town
✓ Day 1: Explore Stradun and Old Town Side Streets
Panoramic Views of the Adriatic & Old Town
✓ Day 1: Dubrovnik Cable Car and Mount Srd Panoramic Views
An Off-the-Beaten-Path Fortress Exploration
✓ Day 1: Walking the Historic City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac
Adriatic Island Escapes & Cruises
✓ Day 2: Ferry to Lokrum Island
A Nature Reserve & Secluded Swimming Spot
✓ Day 2: Explore Lokrum Island Nature Reserve
A Sea Kayaking Adventure
✓ Day 2: Sea Kayaking around Dubrovnik City Walls
A Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class
✓ Day 3: Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class
Ancient Roman Palace & Historic Core
✓ Day 4: Explore Diocletian's Palace Peristyle and Vestibule
Marjan Hill Nature & Panoramic Viewpoints
✓ Day 5: Forest Park Marjan
Vibrant Local Markets & Riva Promenade
✓ Day 5: Green Market (Pazar) and Fish Market
Exploring Ancient Roman & Medieval Fortifications
✓ Day 5: Klis Fortress
Dalmatian Islands & Coastal Excursions
✓ Day 6: Full-Day Boat Trip to Hvar and Pakleni Islands
Photos from Wikimedia Commons, used under Creative Commons licenses. Individual credits shown on each photo.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dubrovnik and Split is during the shoulder seasons of May-June or September-October. Temperatures average a pleasant 20-25°C (68-77°F), offering warm, sunny days perfect for exploring without the intense heat and crowds of peak summer. July and August see temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and are significantly more crowded and expensive. Booking accommodations and popular tours well in advance is crucial for any visit between May and October.
Part two
The plan, day by day
7-day trip
This itinerary prioritizes the iconic walled city of Dubrovnik, island nature, and the ancient heart of Split including Diocletian's Palace and Marjan Hill. Given the pace, it does not allow for exploring the Plitvice Lakes National Park and its stunning tiered waterfalls. You also miss the charming coastal town of Sibenik with its unique St.
James Cathedral, a UNESCO site. There is no time for the lesser-known historical and culinary treasures found inland, like the Imotski Blue and Red Lakes. To truly delve deeper into Croatia's natural beauty, consider extending your trip by two days to include a visit to Plitvice Lakes National Park.
You would experience the breathtaking cascade of 16 interconnected lakes and countless waterfalls, offering a completely different natural landscape than the coast. This itinerary follows a packed pace (5-6 activities per day). Day 1 and the last day are lighter to account for arrival and departure.
Want a different pace? Create a custom version with your preferences.
- Morning
08:00 AM - Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and Transfer to Hotel· 1 hr 30 min
USD 15
Bracodbk (CC BY-SA 3.0Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport (DBV). Take the airport bus (Platanus bus) to the Pile Gate area, which is the main entrance to Dubrovnik's Old Town. From there, it's a short walk to your hotel. Expect a total travel time of 60-90 minutes from landing to hotel area. A taxi is also available for a quicker but more expensive transfer (~25-30 min, $40-50).
09:30 AM - Hotel Check-in and Settle In· 1 hr 30 min
FREECheck into your accommodation near the Old Town and take some time to refresh after your journey. Unpack and get ready for an afternoon of sightseeing.
- Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Zelena Menestra in Old Town· 1 hr
USD 18Zelena menestraEnjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch featuring Zelena Menestra, a hearty stew made with smoked meats and various types of cabbage, at a local konoba in Dubrovnik's Old Town.
Best around Old Town - Closes 6:30 PM · 4h here🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:30 PM - Walking the Historic City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac· 3 hrs
- EveningCloses 9 PM · 3.2h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
05:45 PM - Dubrovnik Cable Car and Mount Srd Panoramic Views· 1 hr 30 min
07:45 PM - Dinner: Fresh Seafood in Old Town· 1 hr
USD 18Savor fresh Adriatic seafood at a highly-rated restaurant within or just outside the Old Town, enjoying the evening ambiance.
Old Town / Pile Gate Area
This area offers immediate access to the historic city walls, Stradun, and numerous restaurants. It's also well-connected for transport, making it an ideal base for exploring Dubrovnik.
- Morning
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
09:30 AM - Explore Lokrum Island Nature Reserve· 4 hrs
FREE - Afternoon
01:30 PM - Lunch: Traditional Dalmatian in Gruž Port· 1 hr
USD 18PašticadaEnjoy a traditional Dalmatian meal, perhaps a hearty Pašticada, in the vibrant Gruž Port area, a local favorite away from the busiest Old Town crowds.
- 🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
03:00 PM - Sea Kayaking around Dubrovnik City Walls· 3 hrs 30 min
- Evening
07:00 PM - Dinner: Konoba Experience in Lapad Bay· 1 hr
USD 18Fresh SeafoodSavor fresh, locally sourced seafood and traditional Croatian dishes at a charming konoba (traditional tavern) in the lively Lapad Bay area, offering a different ambiance from the Old Town.
Old Town / Pile Gate Area
This area continues to provide a convenient base in Dubrovnik, allowing easy access to the Old Port for island trips and walking distance to Pile Gate for various tours. It offers a lively atmosphere with many dining options.
- Morning⚠️ Closed on Monday, Sunday🕐 Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Rector's Palace· 1 hr 30 min
- ⚠️ Closed on Sunday🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:45 AM - Sponza Palace· 1 hr 30 min
- Afternoon
12:30 PM - Lunch: Traditional Dalmatian Cuisine in Old Town· 1 hr
USD 18PašticadaSavor authentic Dalmatian dishes, known for fresh ingredients and Mediterranean flavors, at a local eatery within the charming Old Town.
Best around Old Town 02:00 PM - Traditional Dalmatian Cooking Class· 3 hrs 30 min
Immerse yourself in Croatian culinary traditions with a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic Dalmatian dishes using fresh, local ingredients and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
- Evening🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hours
05:45 PM - Relax at Plaža Sveti Jakov· 2 hrs 30 min
FREEEscape the city bustle and relax at one of Dubrovnik's most beautiful beaches, Plaža Sveti Jakov. Enjoy crystal-clear waters, stunning views of the Old Town, and a peaceful atmosphere. A scenic walk from the Old Town.
08:30 PM - Dinner: Croatian Delights near Ploče Gate· 1 hr
USD 18Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring traditional Croatian dishes at a restaurant conveniently located just outside the Old Town near Ploče Gate, offering a different ambiance from inside the walls.
Old Town / Pile Gate Area
Staying within or very near the Old Town provides excellent walkability to major attractions, diverse dining, and a vibrant historical atmosphere. It also offers easy access to local buses for exploring areas like Lapad or Gruž.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:30 AM - The Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary· 1 hr
10:30 AM - Intercity Bus from Dubrovnik to Split· 4 hrs 30 min
Enjoy the scenic coastal journey as you transfer from Dubrovnik to Split by bus, passing through the beautiful Dalmatian landscape. This journey includes crossing the short Neum corridor in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Afternoon
03:30 PM - Hotel Check-in and Settle In· 1 hr
FREECheck into your accommodation in Split and take some time to refresh after your journey from Dubrovnik.
- 🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
04:30 PM - Explore Diocletian's Palace Peristyle and Vestibule· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - EveningCloses 10 PM · 4h here⚠️ Closed on Wednesday🕐 Monday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: ClosedConfirm hours on Maps
06:00 PM - Saint Domnius Cathedral and Bell Tower Climb· 1 hr 30 min
07:45 PM - Dinner: Fresh Seafood in Old Town Split· 1 hr
USD 20Enjoy a traditional Dalmatian seafood dinner at a local restaurant within or near the Diocletian's Palace area, perhaps trying the rich, savory Crni Rižot (Black Risotto).
Diocletian's Palace Area
Central to historic sites, vibrant atmosphere within the ancient palace walls, and easy access to the Riva Promenade and local markets.
- Morning🕐 Monday: Open 24 hours; Tuesday: Open 24 hours; Wednesday: Open 24 hoursConfirm hours on Maps
08:00 AM - Forest Park Marjan· 3 hrs
FREE - Closes 2 PM · 2.7h here🕐 Monday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PM; Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 2:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
11:20 AM - Green Market (Pazar) and Fish Market· 1 hr 30 min
FREE - Afternoon
12:50 PM - Lunch: Crni Rižot in Split Old Town· 1 hr
USD 20Enjoy a traditional Dalmatian lunch with Crni Rižot (black risotto), a rich and savory dish made with cuttlefish ink, near the historic core of Split.
- Closes 6 PM · 3.8h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:10 PM - Salona Archaeological Park· 2 hrs
- Closes 7 PM · 2.6h here🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
04:25 PM - Klis Fortress· 2 hrs 30 min
- Evening
08:25 PM - Dinner: Salata od hobotnice near Veli Varoš· 1 hr
USD 25Salata od hobotniceSavor a fresh and light dinner with Salata od hobotnice (octopus salad), a classic Dalmatian dish, in a charming restaurant near the Veli Varoš neighborhood, offering a different ambiance from the palace area.
Diocletian's Palace Area
Central to Split's main attractions, including Diocletian's Palace, the Riva, and local markets. Offers easy access to restaurants and transport for day trips, while providing a historic atmosphere.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:30 PMConfirm hours on Maps
09:00 AM - Full-Day Boat Trip to Hvar and Pakleni Islands· 9 hrs
- Afternoon
01:00 PM - Lunch: Sardine na Gradele on Hvar Island· 1 hr
USD 20Sardine na gradeleEnjoy a fresh and simple lunch of grilled sardines, a staple of Dalmatian coastal cuisine, at a local eatery in Hvar Town while soaking in the island atmosphere.
Best around Hvar Town - Evening
07:30 PM - Dinner: Peka in Bačvice· 1 hr
USD 30PekaIndulge in 'Peka', a traditional Dalmatian dish featuring slow-cooked meat (often lamb or veal) and vegetables prepared under an iron bell, offering a rich and authentic local flavor experience in the Ba 010dvice area.
Best around Bačvice
Diocletian's Palace Area
Centrally located for exploring the historic core, with easy access to the Riva promenade, ferry port, and a variety of dining options.
- Morning🕐 Monday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
08:00 AM - Jupiter's Temple and Diocletian's Palace Northern Walls Exploration· 2 hrs 30 min
- 🕐 Monday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
10:30 AM - Diocletian's Palace Cellars· 1 hr 30 min
- Afternoon
12:00 PM - Lunch: Crni Rižot in Old Town Split· 1 hr
USD 18Enjoy a traditional Dalmatian 'black risotto' made with cuttlefish ink, a rich and savory seafood specialty, at a local eatery in Split's Old Town.
- Closes 4 PM · 3h here⚠️ Closed on Sunday🕐 Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
01:00 PM - Ethnographic Museum Split· 1 hr 30 min
- ⚠️ Closed on Monday🕐 Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM; Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PMConfirm hours on Maps
02:30 PM - Split City Museum· 1 hr 30 min
04:00 PM - Hotel Checkout & Luggage Collection· 30 min
FREEReturn to your hotel, complete the checkout process, and collect your luggage before heading to the airport.
Diocletian's Palace Area
Centrally located within Split's historic core, providing easy walking access to the main attractions, diverse dining options, and a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for a short stay and convenient for departure.
Part three
Food, shopping & festivals
Croatia's food scene, from Dubrovnik's ancient stone streets to Split's bustling Pazar market, is defined by the Adriatic's bounty, with seafood dishes like buzara and crni rižot reigning supreme. While tourist-focused menus are common along main promenades, real finds, including slow-cooked peka or pašticada, are in family-run konobas tucked away in alleys. Expect higher prices, so savvy locals often seek out daily specials (gableci) or market finds like pršut i sir.
Top 10 dishes to try
USD 3-6Burek
A flaky, savory pastry often filled with spiced ground meat (mesni) or cheese (sir), popular for breakfast or a quick snack.
USD 3-7Fritule
Croatia
Small, sweet fried dough balls, often flavored with citrus zest, rum, and raisins, dusted with powdered sugar, similar to mini doughnuts.
Blitva s Krumpirima (Swiss Chard with Potatoes)
A ubiquitous and simple side dish of boiled Swiss chard and potatoes, drizzled with olive oil and garlic, often served with fish or meat.
📍 Nearly all traditional restaurants and konobas.
Pršut i sir (Dalmatian Prosciutto and Cheese)
Croatia
Thinly sliced, air-dried Dalmatian prosciutto served with local hard cheeses, often accompanied by olives and fresh bread, makes for a great appetizer.
📍 Appetizer menus everywhere, Croatia
Buzara (Škampi na buzaru or Dagnje na buzaru)
Croatia
Mussels or scampi cooked in a light, flavorful sauce of white wine, garlic, olive oil, and breadcrumbs, perfect for soaking up with fresh bread.
📍 Any seaside restaurant, Croatia
Crni Rižot (Black Risotto)
Croatia
A visually striking risotto made with cuttlefish ink, giving it a rich, savory flavor and distinctive color, often served with tender calamari pieces.
📍 Old Town taverns, Croatia
USD 5-10Soparnik
Split
A savory pie from the Poljica region near Split, filled with Swiss chard, garlic, and olive oil, baked directly on embers and dusted with more garlic.
USD 6-12Dalmatinska Juha od Ribe (Fish Soup)
Split
A simple, clear fish broth, lightly seasoned and often served with rice, highlighting the freshness of the local catch.
Zelena Menestra
Dubrovnik
A hearty, traditional Dubrovnik stew made with various smoked meats (pork, bacon, sausages) and different types of cabbage, especially popular in colder months.
📍 Local konobas in the Old Town, Dubrovnik
USD 19-30Pašticada
Dubrovnik
A traditional Dalmatian beef stew, slow-cooked in a rich, sweet and sour sauce with prunes and spices, typically served with homemade gnocchi.
Markets & neighborhoods
Dubrovnik's main market for fresh produce and daily fish catch, where you can find local ingredients and more casual, affordable eateries.
Split's main open-air market for fresh local produce, olive oil, cheese, cured meats, and occasionally Soparnik.
A labyrinth of ancient streets with hidden konobas and restaurants serving traditional Dalmatian fare, mixed with cafes and bars.
A more relaxed area with family-friendly restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops along the bay, offering a break from the Old Town crowds and often better value.
Historic charm with many traditional konobas and seafood restaurants tucked into ancient alleys; expect higher prices due to the prime location.
Good to Know
In Croatia, Dubrovnik's ancient Old Town offers artisan boutiques and specialty food shops within its stone walls, while Split's Diocletian's Palace and Pazar market provide local crafts and Dalmatian delicacies. Seek out unique finds like lavender products, olive oil, and Plavac Mali wine by exploring side streets and specific artisan workshops. Expect fixed prices in most shops, with some room for negotiation at local markets.
Top 10 souvenirs
Dalmatian Lavender Products
DubrovnikUSD 5-30Hand-harvested lavender from the Dalmatian coast yields highly fragrant essential oils, soaps, and sachets known for their calming properties and natural aroma.
📍 Local artisan stalls on Stradun, specialty shops like Clara Lavender.
Maraschino Liqueur
DubrovnikUSD 15-35This historic cherry liqueur, originally from Zadar, is a sweet and aromatic spirit made from Marasca cherries, offering a taste of Croatian distilling tradition.
📍 Duty-free shops, local liquor stores, larger supermarkets.
Croatian Olive Oil
DubrovnikUSD 15-40Dalmatian extra virgin olive oil offers a distinct peppery finish and rich flavor, perfect for cooking or as a finishing oil.
📍 Uje Oil Bar, specialized gourmet shops in the Old Town, or local markets.
Plavac Mali Wine
SplitUSD 15-40KThis indigenous red grape produces full-bodied, robust wines with notes of dark fruit, unique to Dalmatia's rocky vineyards, making it a true taste of the region.
📍 Vinoteka Diocletian's Wine House, specialized wine shops, local konobas
Croatian Wines (Plavac Mali/Pošip)
DubrovnikUSD 15-80Sample and bring home indigenous Croatian grape varieties like the robust red Plavac Mali or the crisp white Pošip, representing Dalmatia's rich winemaking heritage.
📍 D'Vino Wine Bar, specialized wine shops within the Old Town, or larger supermarkets.
Dalmatian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
SplitUSD 20-50KThe rich, fruity, and peppery flavor of Croatian olive oil is a culinary staple, often from ancient groves unique to the Adriatic coast.
📍 Pazar (Green Market), Uje Oil Bar & Shop, OPG Antoneta Kučer
Dubrovnik Lace
DubrovnikUSD 40-300Exquisitely delicate, handmade lace, whether it's the more recognized Pag lace or local Dubrovnik varieties, is a traditional art form passed down through generations.
📍 Artisan shops in the Old Town, often found near the Stradun, or specialized craft stores.
Croatian Lavender Products
SplitUSD 10-30KDerived from fragrant fields on nearby islands like Hvar, these products offer natural aromatherapy and skincare benefits in essential oils, soaps, and sachets.
📍 Pazar (Green Market), specialty shops within Diocletian's Palace
Paški Sir (Pag Cheese)
SplitUSD 20-50KThis intensely flavorful, hard sheep's milk cheese from Pag Island has a distinctive salty, aromatic profile due to the sheep grazing on herb-rich, sea-sprayed pastures.
📍 Pazar (Green Market), local delicatessens like Gastro Ribarnica Brac
Hand-Carved Olive Wood Items
SplitUSD 25-100KBeautifully grained and durable, these artisanal pieces from local olive trees make unique kitchenware, decorative items, or small sculptures.
📍 Artisan shops within Diocletian's Palace, small galleries near Pazar
Markets & districts
Fresh produce, local olive oil, dried fruits, cheeses, lavender, artisanal food products.
A bustling, lively outdoor market where locals and tourists find fresh regional goods and traditional specialties, with some tourist-oriented stalls closer to the palace entrance.
Fresh local produce, dried fruits, honey, homemade rakija, and some small crafts.
A charming daily morning market just off the Stradun, quieter than the main thoroughfare but still tourist-friendly, offering a glimpse of local life and regional foodstuffs.
Artisan crafts, small galleries, unique boutiques, jewelry, historical books.
A labyrinth of ancient streets and squares teeming with history, offering a mix of authentic local shops and tourist-focused stalls; quality varies, so explore carefully.
Artisan jewelry, Konavle embroidery, local olive oils, lavender products, art galleries, and general souvenirs.
Bustling and picturesque, with the main Stradun offering more mainstream shops and the narrower side streets hiding unique local boutiques and craft workshops.
Souvenirs, some fashion accessories, cafes.
The main waterfront promenade, perfect for people-watching and a relaxed stroll, but many shops here primarily cater to impulse buys with less unique items compared to the old town.
Good to Know
Ultra Europe
Major electronic music festival in the stunning Croatian coastal setting.
Note: Book 3 months ahead
Dubrovnik Summer Festival
Dubrovacke Ljetne IgrePrestigious arts festival with opera, theater, and classical music performed in Dubrovnik's Old Town fortresses, palaces, and open-air venues since 1950.
Note: Book 2+ months ahead - peak Dubrovnik summer
Croatian Statehood Day
Dan državnostiMay 30 marks Croatia's 1990 independence declaration. Main ceremonies at St. Mark's Square (Zagreb), military parade on Tkalčićeva, and free entry to national museums.
Note: Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak periods
Victory and Homeland Thanksgiving Day
Dan pobjedeAugust 5 commemorates the 1995 Operation Storm. Main ceremonies at Knin Fortress with military parade, presidential address, and free admission to historic fortresses across Dalmatia.
Note: Book 2-3 weeks ahead during peak periods
Public Holidays(20)
Part four
Costs & booking
- Total for a couple — 7 days mid-range trip, excludes international flights
- Accommodation assumes 1 shared room
- Rough estimates — actual prices vary by season and availability
Local Transport
Accommodation
AI estimated based on typical hotel costs
Food
Activities
Moderate, but increasingly expensive, especially in popular tourist areas like Dubrovnik — budget $100-150/night for mid-range hotels and $20-35 for a sit-down lunch. Seek out local 'marenda' (daily lunch menus) at traditional konobas for better value, often around $15-18.
Opt for inter-city buses instead of ferries or private transfers between Dubrovnik and Split; a one-way bus ticket typically costs $20-30 per person and is generally more direct than ferries for this route.
To stretch your $25/person/day food budget, frequent local supermarkets like Konzum or Studenac for breakfast and picnic supplies, aiming for meals around $5-10 per person instead of constant restaurant dining.
While the entry fee for Dubrovnik City Walls is steep (around $35 per person), it's a quintessential experience for stunning views and history; go early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
Avoid the fine for using wheeled suitcases in Dubrovnik Old Town, enforced since summer 2023, by carrying your luggage or using a taxi/porter service for the final stretch; fines are at least $270.
Dubrovnik City Walls and Fort Lovrijenac ticketDay 1
Book 1 week ahead — Entry to the City Walls is popular and can have queues, especially during peak season. Fort Lovrijenac entry is usually included with a City Walls ticket.
Dubrovnik Cable Car ticketDay 1
Book 1 week ahead — Tickets for the cable car can be purchased on the day, but booking in advance ensures quicker boarding and avoids potential sell-outs during busy times for specific slots.
Ferry to Lokrum IslandDay 2
Book 3 days ahead — While tickets are often available on the day, pre-booking can save time and guarantee your preferred departure, especially for morning crossings.
Sea Kayaking around Dubrovnik City Walls tourDay 2
Book 2 weeks ahead — Sea kayaking tours are popular, especially those circling the city walls. Group sizes are limited, so booking in advance is essential to secure your spot.
Traditional Dalmatian Cooking ClassDay 3
Book 2 weeks ahead — Cooking classes typically have small group sizes and are in high demand. Secure your participation well in advance.
Full-Day Boat Trip to Hvar and Pakleni IslandsDay 6
Book 2 weeks ahead — Full-day boat trips, especially to popular destinations like Hvar and the Pakleni Islands, are extremely popular and sell out quickly. Booking ahead is crucial.
SIM card or eSIM for CroatiaDay 1
Book 1 week ahead — Research and purchase an eSIM or plan for a local physical SIM card upon arrival to ensure seamless connectivity throughout your trip.
The practical bits — connectivity, getting around, and flights. These are partner links; we may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Part five
Before you go
Buses are the main intercity transport; ferries along coast
FlixBus and local buses connect cities. Jadrolinija ferries serve the islands.
- Use soft-sided bags or carry luggage in Dubrovnik Old Town; wheeled suitcases incur fines since summer 2023 under a local bylaw.
- Do not stray from marked roads or paths in rural and undeveloped areas, especially near former front lines, due to the lingering risk of unexploded landmines from the 1990s war.
- Wear shoes with good grip in Dubrovnik's Old Town; the ancient limestone streets are extremely smooth and can be very slippery, especially when wet or at night.
- Avoid 'striptease bars' in Split; they are known tourist traps that frequently overcharge unsuspecting visitors.
- When driving between Dubrovnik and Split, ensure passports are easily accessible for the two border crossings through the Neum corridor (Bosnia and Herzegovina).
- Expect higher prices compared to previous years, particularly in peak season in Dubrovnik and Split; budget accordingly for accommodations, dining, and activities.
- Cooperate respectfully if approached by police for a search in public spaces, as they have the authority to conduct them at any time.
- Always keep drinks in view and do not accept drinks from strangers, especially at bars in tourist areas, to prevent drink spiking.
- 1Shoes with good grip (for Dubrovnik's slippery limestone streets)
- 2Soft-sided bag or backpack (wheeled luggage ban in Dubrovnik Old Town)
- 3High SPF waterproof sunscreen (intense Adriatic sun)
- 4Swimwear (multiple pairs, for daily swimming)
- 5Quick-dry beach towel (for coastal activities)
- 6Lightweight, breathable clothing (linen/cotton for hot summers)
- 7Wide-brimmed hat (essential sun protection on coast)
- 8Small theft-proof daypack (for crowded tourist areas like Split Riva, Dubrovnik Old Town)
Note: Travel conditions, regulations, and local customs may change. We recommend verifying essential details — such as visa requirements, emergency contacts, and payment options — closer to your travel date.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Croatia is part of the Schengen Area. US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Indian citizens typically require a Schengen visa. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date. Other nationalities should check current requirements at mvep.gov.hr (Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs).
SIM & Connectivity
SIM Options
📍 Official A1 stores, kiosks, or convenience stores at airports/major cities
📍 Official HT stores, kiosks, or convenience stores at airports/major cities
📍 Official Telemach stores, kiosks, or convenience stores at airports/major cities
WiFi is widely available in public places throughout Dubrovnik and Split, including most cafes, restaurants, and hotels. Expect reliable connections in urban centers.
Useful Apps
When driving between Dubrovnik and Split, be aware that you will pass through the Neum corridor in Bosnia and Herzegovina, requiring two border crossings. Ensure you have passports readily accessible for these brief exits and re-entries to Croatia/EU.
Electric Socket Guide
Socket Types
Two round pins (most of Europe, South America)
Two round pins + side earth clips (Germany, Europe)
230V
50Hz
Tipping Etiquette
10% or round up
Round up
€1 per bag
Tipping is appreciated. Croatia uses the euro (since 2023).
Safety & Travel Advisories
Check official government advisories for the latest safety information, entry requirements, and travel warnings before your trip.
Emergency Numbers
192
194
193
112 for all emergencies
Payments
Cash useful at smaller restaurants and markets
Widely accepted in tourist areas
Available at larger establishments
Croatia switched to EUR in 2023. Cards accepted at most tourist spots.
Croatia is part of the Schengen Area. US, UK, EU, Australian, and Canadian citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Indian citizens typically require a Schengen visa. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date.
Croatia is generally very safe. The primary concern in crowded tourist areas like Dubrovnik Old Town and Split's Riva is pickpocketing. Specific scams include overpriced striptease bars in Split. Be cautious in rural areas of former war zones due to unexploded landmines and vigilant about drink spiking in tourist bars.
Croatia uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency, having adopted it in January 2023. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases or markets.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. For good service at restaurants and cafes, it's customary to round up the bill or leave an additional 5-10%. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is also common.
The ideal time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) when the weather is warm (20-25°C), but crowds are thinner, and prices are more manageable than the peak summer months of July and August.
The most common way is by airport shuttle bus, which aligns with flight arrivals and costs around €10-15, dropping passengers at the Pile Gate or Main Bus Station. Taxis are also available, costing approximately €30-40 for the 20-30 minute ride.
Airport shuttle buses run regularly to the Split Main Bus Station, near the city center and ferry port, costing about €5-7 and taking 30-40 minutes. Taxis are also readily available, typically costing €30-40 for the 25-30 minute journey.
Yes, since the summer of 2023, there is a city bylaw prohibiting the use of wheeled suitcases within Dubrovnik's Old Town. Travelers are encouraged to use soft-sided bags, backpacks, or carry their luggage to avoid potential fines.
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🇧🇦A Cross-Border Day Trip to Historic Trebinje
e.g., Old Town of Trebinje, Arslanagića Bridge (Perovića Bridge)
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