Most people visiting both Split and Dubrovnik spend about seven to nine days in Croatia, which usually includes some time in Hvar as well. If you’re not interested in Hvar, six to eight days is enough for your Split and Dubrovnik trip. With less time, it’s still possible to see the highlights in as few as five days. For the best itineraries, including Split and Dubrovnik, keep reading below.
## Discovering the Allure of Split & Dubrovnik: Crafting Your Ideal Croatian Adventure
Planning a trip to Croatia and wondering just how much time you should dedicate to the captivating cities of Split and Dubrovnik? You’re not alone! These Dalmatian Coast gems offer a wealth of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it essential to allocate the right amount of time to fully appreciate their unique charms.
* **The Sweet Spot: 6-8 Days** Most travelers find that a combined stay of six to eight days in Split and Dubrovnik provides a balanced experience, allowing for ample exploration without feeling overly rushed. This duration allows you to delve into the historical cores of both cities, savor local cuisine, and perhaps even embark on a day trip or two to explore the surrounding region.
* **A Whirlwind Tour: 5 Days** While it is possible to visit Split and Dubrovnik in just five days, be prepared for a faster pace. This shorter timeframe will require prioritizing your must-see attractions and may leave you wishing for more time to soak in the atmosphere of each city.
* **Beyond the Highlights: 9+ Days** If you have nine days or more to spare, consider yourself fortunate! This extended timeframe opens up the possibility of adding even more exciting stops to your Croatian itinerary. Many travelers opt to include destinations such as the sun-kissed island of Hvar, the historic town of Ston, or the tranquil island of Korčula, enriching their overall Croatian experience.
## Tailored Itineraries for Split & Dubrovnik: Finding the Perfect Fit
To help you visualize your Croatian adventure, here are a few recommended itineraries, each designed to cater to different timeframes and interests.
### Six-Day Dalmatian Coast Exploration: Split, Krka, Pelješac Peninsula, and Dubrovnik
**(Image: View of Split, Croatia)**
This itinerary focuses on the highlights of the Dalmatian Coast, offering a delightful blend of history, nature, and culinary delights.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :——————————————————– | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, Immerse Yourself in the City’s Vibe | Split |
| Day 2 | Discover Diocletian’s Palace & Ascend Marjan Park | Split |
| Day 3 | Day Trip to Krka National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park | Split |
| Day 4 | Journey to Dubrovnik via the Scenic Pelješac Peninsula | Dubrovnik |
| Day 5 | Explore Dubrovnik’s Old Town and City Walls | Dubrovnik |
| Day 6 | Bid Farewell to Dubrovnik | |
Embark on a six-day exploration of the Dalmatian Coast, commencing your journey in the vibrant city of Split. Here, you’ll discover the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the sprawling Marjan Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Venture inland to immerse yourself in the cascading waterfalls and lush landscapes of either Krka National Park or Plitvice Lakes National Park, both natural wonders that will leave you in awe. Then, make your way south towards Dubrovnik, a city renowned for its stunning old town and iconic historic walls. En route, pause at the Pelješac Peninsula, where you can explore ancient fortifications, indulge in world-famous oysters, and savor the region’s robust red wines. For the adventurous souls, an optional kayaking excursion can be added to your Pelješac Peninsula experience.
### Seven-Day Dalmatian Coast Adventure: Unveiling Croatia’s Coastal Treasures
**(Image: Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”)**
This itinerary offers a deeper dive into the coastal culture of Croatia’s Dalmatia region, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s highlights.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, Settle In and Prepare for Adventure | Split |
| Day 2 | Immerse Yourself in Split’s History & Gastronomy | Split |
| Day 3 | Discover the Natural Wonders of Krka National Park | Split |
| Day 4 | Journey to Dubrovnik via the Charming Pelješac Peninsula | Dubrovnik |
| Day 5 | Explore Dubrovnik on Foot & Kayak Around Lokrum Island | Dubrovnik |
| Day 6 | Discover the Culinary Delights of the Konavle Region | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Depart from Dubrovnik, Filled with Memories | |
Embark on a seven-day journey through Croatia’s captivating Dalmatia region, beginning in the bustling city of Split. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and vibrant culture as you explore national parks, sail amidst picturesque islands, and discover the enchanting city of Dubrovnik. From the historic streets of Split to the culinary experiences of the Konavle region, this itinerary offers a diverse range of activities that showcase the best of what Croatia has to offer in just one week.
### Eight-Day Dalmatian Coast Immersion: History, Nature, and Ziplining Thrills
**(Image: View of Dubrovnik’s Historic Old Town Walls)**
This itinerary combines the cultural treasures of Split and Dubrovnik with exhilarating outdoor adventures, creating a well-rounded and unforgettable experience.
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :—————————————————————————— | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, Unpack and Get to Know Your Surroundings | Split |
| Day 2 | Soar Above the Cetina River Canyon on a Thrilling Zipline Adventure | Split |
| Day 3 | Journey Back in Time with a Day Trip to the UNESCO Town of Trogir | Split |
| Day 4 | Wander Through the Wooden Pathways of Plitvice Lakes National Park | Split |
| Day 5 | Take a Refreshing Dip in the Emerald Waterfalls of Krka National Park | Split |
| Day 6 | Transfer to Dubrovnik and Take an Afternoon Walking Tour | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Hike up Srđ Mountain for Breathtaking Panoramic Views | Dubrovnik |
| Day 8 | Depart from Dubrovnik, Carrying Memories to Last a Lifetime | |
Uncover the ancient cities and natural wonders that grace Croatia’s stunning Dalmatian Coastline, starting your adventure in the historic city of Split, home to the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace. Utilize Split as your central hub as you immerse yourself in some of the country’s most breathtaking scenery. Embark on a day trip to the charming town of Trogir, experience the thrill of ziplining across the Cetina River Canyon, hike along the wooden boardwalks of Plitvice Lakes, and take a dip in the emerald lagoons of Krka National Park. Conclude your journey in the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik, where you can stroll along the ancient city walls, witness a mesmerizing sunrise from the summit of Mount Srđ, and delve into the unique history of this captivating region.
## Venturing Further: Extended Itineraries for the Avid Traveler
For those with more time to explore, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional destinations and experiences.
### Seven-Day Luxury Escape: Hvar Island Hopping and Culinary Delights
**(Image: Summer scene of boaters and beachgoers on Hvar Island)**
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :———————————————————————- | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, Enjoy a Private Walking Food Tour | Split |
| Day 2 | Explore the Natural Beauty of Krka National Park | Split |
| Day 3 | Catamaran to Hvar, Indulge in a Half-Day Private Island Tour | Hvar |
| Day 4 | Private Speedboat to Blue Cave, Vis Island & Pakleni Islands | Hvar |
| Day 5 | Catamaran to Dubrovnik, Immerse Yourself in a Private City Tour | Dubrovnik |
| Day 6 | Day Trip to Cavtat & Konavle Region for a Culinary Experience | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Depart from Dubrovnik, Refreshed and Inspired | |
Embark on a week-long luxury adventure, discovering Croatia’s Dalmatian cities and Adriatic islands, commencing your journey in Split and concluding in Dubrovnik. Follow winding wooden paths to explore the emerald pools and river islands of Krka National Park, soak in the breathtaking Adriatic views aboard a luxurious speedboat as you journey to Biševo, Vis, and the Pakleni islands, and venture beyond the “Adriatic Pearl” to the Konavle region, where you will have the opportunity to learn the art of cooking like a local at a family-run estate. Throughout your trip, indulge in private guided tours, savor the delectable flavors of local cuisine, and unwind in upscale accommodations each night.
### Nine-Day Coastal Odyssey: Hvar, Korčula, and Ston Unveiled
**(Image: Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula)**
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :——————————————————————– | :————- |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split! | Split |
| Day 2 | Delve into the History of Split with a Guided Walking Tour | Split |
| Day 3 | Ferry to Hvar, Enjoy a Sunset Sea Kayaking Tour | Hvar Town |
| Day 4 | Set Sail and Discover the Pakleni Islands Archipelago | Hvar Town |
| Day 5 | Ferry to Korčula, Cycle & Taste Wine in Lumbarda | Korčula Town |
| Day 6 | Journey to Ston via the Stunning Pelješac Peninsula | Ston |
| Day 7 | Explore Ston in the Morning, Transfer to Dubrovnik | Dubrovnik |
| Day 8 | Discover Dubrovnik’s History on a Guided Walking Tour | Dubrovnik |
| Day 9 | Depart from Dubrovnik, Enriched by Your Croatian Experience | |
Discover Croatia’s captivating coastal cities, ancient Roman ruins, and the rocky and wooded beauty of the Pakleni Islands on this nine-day adventure. Begin your journey in Split, where you’ll uncover the treasures of the fourth-century Diocletian’s Palace, and then venture to the historic Hvar Town before embarking on a kayaking adventure to the Pakleni Islands. Explore the wineries in the Lumbarda region on the island of Korčula. Traverse the rugged landscapes of the Pelješac Peninsula, explore the narrow streets and fortified walls of Ston, and conclude your adventure with a private walking tour of Dubrovnik’s medieval core.
### Ten-Day Croatian Panorama: Zagreb, Hvar, and Dubrovnik
**(Image: Picturesque alleyways of Hvar Town)**
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :———————————————————– | :——– |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Zagreb, Explore the Croatian Capital | Zagreb |
| Day 2 | Journey to Plitvice Lakes National Park & Hike | Zagreb |
| Day 3 | Plitvice Lakes at Sunrise, Transfer to Zadar | Zadar |
| Day 4 | Journey to Split, Explore the City | Split |
| Day 5 | Discover the History of Split with a Guided Walking Tour | Split |
| Day 6 | Ferry to Hvar, Explore the Island | Hvar Town |
| Day 7 | Explore Hvar on an Afternoon Bike Tour | Hvar Town |
| Day 8 | Ferry to Dubrovnik, Explore the City | Dubrovnik |
| Day 9 | Discover Dubrovnik’s History on a Guided Walking Tour | Dubrovnik |
| Day 10| Depart from Dubrovnik, Cherishing Lasting Memories | |
This ten-day tour highlights the southern Dalmatian coast, from the Roman port city of Split to the medieval fortressed walls of Dubrovnik, with your first stop in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. Experience stunning landscapes and rich, ancient culture on this adventurous route as you visit breathtaking national parks and Roman ruins, and kayak off the mainland to nearby islands.
## Navigating the Dalmatian Coast: Traveling Between Split & Dubrovnik
**Reaching Split**
There are several convenient ways to travel to Split from within Croatia’s most popular cities and regions, including Dubrovnik, Istria, and Zagreb.
**Reaching Dubrovnik**
The most convenient and fastest way to reach Dubrovnik is by air. Dubrovnik Airport offers various international connections as well as daily flights to the capital, Zagreb, and other domestic destinations, including Rijeka, Osijek, and Split.
B-573