10 Day Croatia Itinerary: Top Spots for Unforgettable Group Travel

Croatia is a fantastic destination for a big family vacation or epic group trip. This 10-day Croatia itinerary will ensure you don’t waste a second! With hundreds of islands, millennia-old historical sites, and tasty culinary delights, Croatia offers something for everyone.

Nature lovers will adore the beaches of the Dalmatian Coast and national parks like Krka and Plitvice. History buffs will love the Diocletian’s Palace archaeological site and nine other UNESCO sites. Wine connoisseurs, watersports people, and Game of Thrones fans will all have an incredible time in this unique country on the Adriatic Sea.

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How To Get Around Croatia: Drive or Public Transport?

If you’re used to driving on longer vacations, consider getting a rental car for your Croatia trip. There are a lot of pros. On a road trip, you have total time freedom. You can travel at your own pace and stop at as many small towns and scenic areas as you want.

However, you really don’t need a rental car in major cities like Dubrovnik, Split, or Zagreb (the capital of Croatia). Their historic centers are mostly car-free.

Plus, Croatia has a limited train network between larger inland cities and a bus system for everywhere else. There are many ferry services to Croatian islands too, particularly in the warmer months.

The verdict? If there are willing drivers and it’s in your budget, renting a car is a good idea for at least part of your trip. Otherwise, you can book small-group tours and buses. This 10-day itinerary will give you options for both!

Top tip: Ensure your group’s drivers have an International Driving Permit (IDP). While they might not be legally mandatory, some rental companies require them.

10-Day Croatia Itinerary for Families and Friends

Day 1: Arrive in Split

Welcome to Split! Founded by the Greeks and expanded by the Roman Empire in 300 AD, Split is a well-preserved history museum. As the second-largest city in Croatia, Split Airport is also an ideal place to start your Croatian vacation. There are plenty of connecting flights to Split from European travel hubs like Rome, Frankfurt, and more.

Book four nights in Split so you can settle in. Your arrival time will dictate how much time you have to explore Split on your first day. Regardless, drop your bags off at your hotel and take it easy. Get your bearings, stroll around the city, and enjoy free activities that don’t require advanced bookings.

First-Day Things To Do in Split

• Riva Promenade – Riva is Split’s waterfront with a long boardwalk lined with restaurants, shops, and bars with gorgeous sea views. 
• Green Market or Fish Market – These fresh produce markets are must-visits if you’re staying in an apartment and want to cook a group dinner. Note that they tend to open from around 6:00 AM-1:00 PM or 2:00 PM.
• Kaštelet Beach – This pebbly beach is a little outside Split’s Old Town, but is the perfect family-friendly spot for an afternoon swim after a long flight.
• Kupalište Bene Beach – Another great beach option with naturally-formed swimming holes.
• Hike Marjan Hill – Both beaches are on either side of this hill, which you can climb via a 5-mile (8 km) loop trail. Perfect for active groups.
• Pizzeria Portas – Enjoy your first vacation group dinner at this rustic yet upscale Mediterranean restaurant. You’ll never regret making reservations in advance when traveling as a group.

Day 2: Explore Split

Spend the following day exploring other places in Split that you didn’t get to yesterday. Most of the top things to do in Split, like the Diocletian’s Palace, don’t require booking in advance, but they can get busy. Large groups might prefer to book a private walking tour of Split.

It’s a super walkable city, so you shouldn’t need to drive or use public transport. However, if someone in your group has limited mobility, you can use Uber to travel longer distances. Other taxi apps like Bolt, Taxi Cammeo, and Eko Taxi are popular alternatives in Split and the rest of Croatia.

Second-Day Activities in Split

• Diocletian’s Palace – Dating back to the Romans, head to this UNESCO-certified fortress first thing. It’s a free, open area with cool ruins you can walk around at your leisure. Groups can book a private tour to learn more about the history behind the structures.
• Ethnographic Museum – This is the perfect rainy-day activity. It’s located in the Diocletian’s Palace complex where you can see traditional Dalmatian crafts, costumes, and more.
• Bepa – This welcoming restaurant serves traditional Croatian dishes and seafood with a large outdoor patio.
• Pumparela Gelateria – Thanks to its proximity to Italy, Croatia has fantastic Italian cuisine! This gelateria is one of the best in Split’s Old Town.
• Cathedral of St. Domnius’ Bell Tower – Part of the Diocletian’s Palace complex, buy combo Cathedral tickets and head up the Bell Tower. You must climb 180 steps to reach the top, but the views are worth it!
• Jupiter’s Temple – This 3rd-century Roman temple, also in the Diocletian’s Palace complex, was converted into a Christian baptistery. Remarkably well-preserved and included in the Cathedral combo ticket.
• Bokamorra Pizza – Indulge in crowd-pleasing fresh Napoli pizzas served with an extensive cocktail menu.

Day 3: Day Trip to Krka National Park

There are many beautiful national parks and small coastal towns near Split. It’s difficult to suggest just one on your 10-day Croatia itinerary! But if I had to suggest one to suit most groups, Krka National Park is a great choice. You’ll get to experience Croatia’s natural beauty beyond the city and coast.

Krka National Park is known for its seven stunning waterfalls (Skradinski Buk is the most famous) and river cruises. It also has centuries-old castle and monastery ruins. Plus, the park is only a one-hour drive (87 km) north of Split!

If you’ve already rented a car, you could drive to Krka National Park. Buy entrance tickets in advance on the official Krka website. Choose the Lozovac entrance as this is where you can park. Your tickets include a 2-hour boat ride to Skradinski Buk.

Alternatively, you can book a tour. This is ideal if you haven’t rented a car yet. This 10-hour small-group tour option includes a tour guide and plenty of free time. Choose a private tour to include a side trip to Sibenik, Trogir, or a winery.

Alternative Half-Day Trip: Trogir

Did you arrive in Split late on your first day and want to spend more time in the city? Trogir is a fantastic half-day trip. It’s only a 30-minute drive (27 km) north of Split along the coast. 

Trogir is known for its well-preserved, UNESCO-certified Old Town. It has a beautiful blend of Renaissance, Baroque, and Romanesque buildings on a tiny island setting. Parts of the original city walls are intact and the 13th-century Cathedral of St. Lawrence is a must-see.

You can drive and park in several parking lots outside the Old Town. It’s best to head to Trogir early. By late morning in peak season, the lots will be super full. 

Another option is to take the bus. FlixBus or Autotrans by Arriva buses from Split Station are best because they’re used to tourists and are fast, 30-minute services. The local N.37 bus takes an hour. Book in advance to make sure there are seats for your whole group!

Alternative Day Trip from Split: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Finally, you could go to Plitvice Lakes National Park on your day trip from Split! Because it’s a 2-hour and 30-minute drive (241 km) away, it’s a much longer day trip than to Krka. It’s probably not the best option for groups with little kids! However, if you have your heart set on Plitvice Lakes, it’s possible.

Plitvice Lakes is Croatia’s most famous and visited national park. It boasts 16 interconnected lakes surrounded by lush forests and it’s also on the UNESCO list. Veliki Slap, Croatia’s tallest waterfall at 78 m/255 ft, is in Plitvice.

If you rent a car and drive to Plitvice, you must buy park entrance tickets at least two days in advance. It’s a super popular place and the limited daily tickets sell out in peak season. Find tickets on Plitvice’s official website.

Alternatively, book a small-group tour which includes entrance tickets.

Day 4: Day Trip to Hvar

Croatia’s coast has approximately 78 Dalmatian islands and 524 islets. Your group has to visit at least one! Despite its reputation for nightlife, the island of Hvar is a fantastic option for families as well as groups of friends. Hvar is known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, vineyards, and lavender fields.

It typically takes around 90 minutes to 2 hours to sail from Split Port to the Stari Grad Port on Hvar. It’s a car ferry so you can drive onto the island. There are more ferry services in summer but they are busier so buy Split ferry tickets in advance. Note that Hvar Town is a car-free zone.

Groups without a car can easily explore Hvar too. Book a catamaran or passenger ferry to Hvar and use the bus system between Hvar Town, Stari Grad, Jelsa, and Vrbos. Stari Grad has many shops where you can rent bikes for short distances. PickApp is the best taxi app to use on Hvar.

Things To Do on Hvar Island

• Beautiful Beaches – Strand Mekićevica, Plaza Sveta Nedelja, and Hvar Beach are all gorgeous little beaches along Hvar’s south coast. Note that most beaches in this region are pebble beaches and many are nudist so research before visiting!
• Fortica Fortress – Just outside of Hvar Town, drive or walk up to this 13th-century Venetian fortress with incredible views over the island.
• Restaurant Mizarola – Perfect seafood and Mediterranean lunch restaurant in the heart of Hvar.
• Hvar Lavender Fields – Visiting Hvar between late May and mid-July? Check out the lavender fields in bloom. 
• Wine-tasting Tour – Hvar, and many Dalmatian Islands, produce incredible local wines. Take a wine tour of the vineyards and cellars of one of the island’s best wineries like Plenković Winery, Tomić Winery, or Svirče Cooperative.

Day 5: Travel to Dubrovnik

Spend the five final days of your 10-day exploring in and around Dubrovnik. Journey times from Split to Dubrovnik depend on whether you are driving a rental car (and which route you choose!) or taking the bus. It takes around 2 hours and 50 minutes (233 km) if you drive the fastest route without stopping.

But where’s the fun in driving with no stops?! I’ve suggested a few places along the way. This will increase the total journey time to around 5 hours and 20 minutes (332 km) if you visit them all. But you can pick and choose based on your group’s interests. 

You can rent a car at dozens of places in Split city center. If you are flying out of Split, pick one where you can return the car at the airport. Or, if you are flying out of Dubrovnik, renting a car for this one-way journey is super common (although there’s often a fee). 

Small groups might prefer to take a bus from Split to Dubrovnik. FlixBus operates multiple buses daily from Split Station and the journey takes between four to five hours.

Book your remaining five nights in Dubrovnik. Your group will split time between the city and fun day trips nearby.

Fun Stops En Route to Dubrovnik

• Omiš – See the Cetina River Canyon, stroll through the Old Town, and see a former pirate stronghold. 
• Makarska Riviera – This region encompasses a 60-km stretch of the Dalmatian coast between the water and the dramatic Mount Biokovo. Stop for lunch in an old fishing village or town like Makarska which has a beautiful promenade.
• Mostar – Who says your group needs to drive straight from Split to Dubrovnik? Why not take a detour to another country?! Located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar is known for its picturesque Stari Most (Old Bridge). Stop by the Koski Mehmed-Pasha Mosque and climb the minaret for panoramic views. 
• Ston – This is a road trip stop that keeps on giving. First, stop by Europe’s longest preserved stone wall which connects Ston with Mali Ston. You can walk across some sections of this 14th-century structure. Mali Ston Bay is also home to some incredible oysters. Ston Salt Works might be the oldest salt-production area in the world, so buy some as a tasty souvenir. 

Day 6: Explore Dubrovnik

Known as the Pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik is known for its incredible Old Town. Also on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, over 60% of the city was damaged during the Croatian War of Independence in 1991. Luckily, the ancient City Walls were repaired and many buildings were painstakingly rebuilt.

The City Walls, lively narrow streets like Stradun, and historic sites like Lovrjenac Fortress are just some of the top Dubrovnik things to do. Of course, the Old Town doubled as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones! Despite the show ending in 2019, it’s still a big draw. 

Spend the fifth day of your 10-day Croatia itinerary (and the first day in Dubrovnik) visiting all the iconic sites!

First-Day Things To Do in Dubrovnik

• Dubrovnik City Walls – Among the finest medieval defenses in the world, the city walls run continuously for 6,360 ft around most of the Old Town. Walk along the walls for great views of the fortresses, the sea, and the maze of the narrow streets below.
• Dubrovnik Cathedral – Its full name is the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and it’s such an opulent Baroque church built in the 18th century. The interiors are beautiful too!
• Peppino’s Gelato – This highly-rated, much-loved gelateria is an essential stop on warm day sightseeing around the Old Town. It’s homemade on-site and has a mix of classic and unique flavors (try the apricot and honey!).
• Franciscan Monastery Pharmacy – This church dates back to 1317, making its pharmacy one of the oldest in Europe. At first, it only served Franciscan Friars but soon opened its doors to the public. There are lots of pharmaceutical artifacts and instruments on display. Plus, you can buy some of their products!
• Cable Car Ride to Mount Srđ – Looming behind Dubrovnik is the round hill of Srđ. But you don’t have to sweat to reach the top! Your group can take a leisurely cable car ride for sweeping views across Dubrovnik’s orange roofs.
• City Food & Walking Tour – One of the best ways for your group to learn about a new city is through its cuisine. Join a fun, knowledgeable guide on this Croatian food walking tour. Book ahead to ensure your whole group gets a spot!

Day 7: Day Trip to Kotor

Don’t worry, there will be more time to explore Dubrovnik at the end of your trip. But there are so many cool places near Dubrovnik you should visit too, and some are in a different country! 

Kotor is a charming fortified town nestled in the Bay of Kotor in Montenegro. It’s approximately a 2-hour drive (90 km) south. Like Dubrovnik, Kotor has a UNESCO-certified Old Town and incredible natural beauty.

There are a few ways you can travel to Kotor. You could drive a rental car and park outside Kotor’s City Walls. Or, you could book tickets on a CroatiaBus – Globtour service from Dubrovnik Central Bus Station to Kotor. There are direct services with a brief stop in Herceg Novi. 

The third option is to book a tour. This 10-hour small-group Kotor bus tour includes trips to Perast or Budva in Montenegro too. Or, you can book a private tour from Dubrovnik to Kotor so your group has a private driver and guide.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to pack your passport when crossing borders! Croatia is in the EU but Montenegro is only in the process of joining the EU. Regardless, passport checks can happen at any border and it’s better to be prepared.

Things To Do in Kotor

• Kotor Old Town & City Walls – The medieval walls triangulate around Kotor’s charming Old Town. Spend an hour or so walking around and seeing the many towers, gates, and parts of the walls.
• ‘Cat Square’ – Feline friends should not miss Pjaca od Drva, otherwise known as ‘Cat Square’. Many strays slink around the town and the locals take care of them.
• St. Tryphon’s Cathedral – This 12th-century Romanesque church is home to many beautiful silver and gold ornaments as well as impressive frescoes.
• Konoba Scala Santa Restaurant – Enjoy lunch at this cozy tavern with incredible seafood and pasta dishes. Get a table outside on the terrace.
• Marshall’s Gelato – Just because you’re on a day trip, doesn’t mean you need to miss your daily gelato dose! Homemade, check. Rich and creamy, check check.
• Our Lady of the Rocks Island – If there’s time, take a boat tour of Kotor Bay with a stop at the 17th-century Our Lady of the Rocks church on an artificial island. This is a fantastic private boat tour option.
• Kotor Fortress – Active group members can climb up to Kotor Fortress. It’s on a hill just outside of the Old Town. If you walk up the back route via the Ladder of Kotor, you won’t need to pay an entrance fee.
• Kotor Beach – Another scenic pebbled beach, Kotor Beach is ideal for swimming rather than sunbathing. Or, just for dipping your toes in!

Day 8: Day Trip to Cavtat

After your longer epic day trip to Kotor the day before, your group will be craving a more relaxing day trip. This seaside village is the perfect beachy escape from the bustling city. Cavtat is only a 30-minute drive (29.5 km) south of Dubrovnik along the coast. As well as beaches and a beautiful harbor, Cavtat has interesting historical sites.

If you have a rental car, this is the best place to visit on a day trip. It’s still possible to travel from Dubrovnik to Cavtat via local public transport if you’re organized. Libertas Dubrovnik runs the Line 10 bus from Gruž Port Bus Terminal to Cavtat. It takes around 40 minutes and the buses leave every 30 minutes in peak season.

This Cavtat and Konavle half-day tour is also a great idea for a stress-free trip.

Things To Do in Cavtat

• Beach Rat & Beach Sustjepan – These tree-covered beaches and smooth rocky shore are incredibly beautiful, family-friendly places to swim in the summer months.
• Church of Our Lady of the Snows – This Franciscan monastery was founded in 1484, but now it’s open for anyone to visit. It houses Renaissance paintings and a striking piece of the Madonna and Child gazing at Cavtat.
• Sea Kayaking Tour – Groups who want to enjoy the calm waters but don’t feel like swimming can sign up for this super fun sea kayaking tour. Learn about the history of Cavtat and see the town from the unique vantage point of the water.
• Konoba Galija Restaurant – Dine on delicious seafood, pizza, and salads with your group in this restaurant’s secluded garden patio. Their squid ink risotto is a signature dish.
• Mausoleum of the Racic Family – It may seem strange to visit a local family’s mausoleum, but this one is an architectural Art Deco masterpiece. Built by Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović in 1922, this stone building has an octagonal layout with the carved faces of 136 angels and many more symbolic images. 
• Bukovac House Museum – Cavtat has plenty to do on a rainy day too. This house is the birthplace and former residence of the renowned Croatian painter Vlaho Bukovac. Inside, there are many personal items and over 200 of the artist’s paintings.

Day 9: Explore Dubrovnik

Spend your final full day in Croatia exploring everything you’ve not yet visited in Dubrovnik. Although the Old Town is small, there are many activities and opportunities to visit one more Croatian island.

Take tours, visit museums, and discover churches you’ve not yet explored. Check out Dubrovnik’s beaches and, if you have time, take a ferry to Lokrum Island. 

The journey is only 15 minutes from the Old Port so it’s perfect for a couple of hours or even a half-day trip. During peak season, ferries depart every 30 minutes between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

Second Day Activities in Dubrovnik

• Game of Thrones Tour – Fans of the HBO series cannot miss taking a tour of the main filming locations in Dubrovnik! You can also take a self-guided tour as a group.
• Red History Museum – This was the first museum in Croatia to explore the country’s communist past. It’s a fascinating time in history and there are so many interesting exhibits and stories.
• St. Blaise Church – Dedicated to the city’s patron saint, this 15th-century church is worth visiting. Don’t miss the statue of the saint holding a silver model of pre-earthquake Dubrovnik. The stained glass windows are also beautiful.
• Banje Beach – If you can squeeze in a quick beach trip, visit Banje Beach. It’s just a few minutes walk from the historic center. You can rent deck chairs or water sports equipment like jet skis and kayaks.
• Stara Luka Old Port – A key part of Dubrovnik’s Old Town is its 7th-century port. Dubrovnik has a rich maritime history and is a beautiful place to walk around and see the boats.
• Lokrum Island – Groups with half a day to spare on their last day in Croatia should take a ferry to Lokrum Island from the Old Port. It has incredible natural beauty. Your group can also book a 2-hour sea kayaking and snorkeling expedition here.

Day 10: Head Home

On your last day in Croatia, it’s time to pack your bags and say goodbye to this incredible country!

Most groups will book round-trip flights to the same airport. If you landed in Split, drive your rental car or book a FlixBus back to the city. This is why it’s a good idea to ensure you can drop off your rental car at Split Airport. You’ll avoid driving into the city and needing to take a taxi to the airport.

Alternatively, you have an easier return journey if you are flying out of Dubrovnik. Order a taxi or rideshare via the Uber or Bolt apps or book a transfer in advance. If you’d prefer a shuttle bus, check the shuttle bus website for timetables and ticket prices.

Follow This 10 Day Croatia Itinerary For an Epic Trip

With hundreds of islands and many major cities, it’s easy to overstuff a 10-day Croatia itinerary. But you’ll end up spending too much time driving between places and not exploring the places themselves. 

This itinerary gives you a taste of the historic cities, smaller hidden gems, and areas of natural beauty. It even allows your group to tick two other countries off your bucket list! You’ll all enjoy an incredible vacation, make lasting memories, and enjoy quality time together.