Split Dubrovnik Hvar Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that seven to nine days is perfect for a well-paced Croatia trip with stops in Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar. If you don’t mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as five or six days. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favored itinerary extensions include Korčula, Zagreb, or Zadar. Get inspired with the below Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar trip ideas.

## Delving into Dalmatia: Exploring Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. The cities of Split and Dubrovnik, along with the island of Hvar, are jewels in this crown, drawing visitors from across the globe. Planning the perfect trip to these destinations requires careful consideration of the time needed to truly experience their unique offerings.

* Most travelers find that a combined trip to Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar benefits from a duration of 7 to 9 days. This timeframe allows for a balanced exploration of each location, offering a blend of structured activities and independent discovery.

* It is indeed possible to visit Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar in a shorter timeframe of 5 or 6 days. However, be prepared for a faster-paced experience. This condensed itinerary will likely involve prioritizing certain attractions and accepting a more superficial understanding of each destination. The journey might feel rushed, leaving less time for relaxation and spontaneous exploration.

* If you have the luxury of 10 or more days, the possibilities for your Croatian adventure expand significantly. Most travelers with this extra time choose to extend their trip by incorporating additional destinations into their itinerary. This allows for a deeper immersion into the region’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

* Popular extensions to a Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar itinerary include the charming island of Korčula, the vibrant capital city of Zagreb, and the historically rich coastal city of Zadar. Each of these locations offers a unique perspective on Croatia, enriching the overall travel experience.

## Tailored Itineraries for Split, Dubrovnik & Hvar

To help you plan your ideal trip, here are some recommended itineraries for different durations, each offering a unique blend of experiences in Split, Dubrovnik, and Hvar.

### A Week of Dalmatian Delights: 7-Day Itinerary

**(Image: Summer scene of boaters and beachgoers on Hvar Island)**

This itinerary focuses on experiencing the highlights of the Dalmatian cities and the allure of the Adriatic islands.

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :————————————————————————————– | :———- |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, indulge in a Private Walking Food Tour, savoring the local flavors. | Split |
| Day 2 | Embark on a captivating Day Trip to the stunning Krka National Park. | Split |
| Day 3 | Take a Catamaran to Hvar, followed by a delightful Half-Day Private Island Tour. | Hvar |
| Day 4 | Experience a Private Speedboat Tour, exploring the Blue Cave, Vis Island & Pakleni Islands. | Hvar |
| Day 5 | Journey via Catamaran to Dubrovnik, accompanied by a Private Walking City Tour. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 6 | Enjoy a Day Trip to Cavtat & Konavle Region, including a Private Culinary Experience. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Depart from Dubrovnik, carrying memories of your Croatian adventure. | |

This weeklong journey begins in Split and culminates in Dubrovnik, offering a comprehensive introduction to the region. Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Krka National Park, navigating emerald pools and enchanting river islands. Feel the thrill of a speedboat ride to Biševo, Vis, and the captivating Pakleni Islands. Venture beyond the iconic “Adriatic Pearl” to the Konavle region, where you’ll learn the art of Croatian cuisine on a family-run estate.

### An Extended Exploration: 8-Day Itinerary

**(Image: Dubrovnik’s West Harbor)**

This itinerary offers a slightly more relaxed pace, allowing for deeper exploration of each destination and a focus on both cultural immersion and natural beauty.

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :——————————————————- | :———- |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split, settle in and begin your exploration. | Split |
| Day 2 | Discover the natural splendor of Plitvice Lakes National Park through hiking. | Split |
| Day 3 | Take a Ferry to Hvar and explore the island at your leisure. | Hvar |
| Day 4 | Embark on an exciting Off-Roading Tour of Hvar. | Hvar |
| Day 5 | Experience the beauty of the Pakleni Islands through Sea Kayaking. | Hvar |
| Day 6 | Travel by Ferry to Dubrovnik and explore the city. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Indulge in a Food & Wine Tour, savoring the local delicacies. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 8 | Depart from Dubrovnik, filled with memories of Croatia. | |

This trip seamlessly blends Croatia’s historical cities with its breathtaking natural landscapes. Begin with a tour of Split’s Diocletian Palace, a testament to Roman grandeur. Journey to the cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes of Plitvice Lakes National Park. Next, venture to Hvar, where you can kayak along its stunning coastline and wander through its charming streets, vineyards, rolling mountains and fragrant lavender fields. Conclude your trip in Dubrovnik, savoring local cuisine and witnessing a mesmerizing sunset from Srđ Hill.

### Immersive Dalmatia: 9-Day Itinerary

**(Image: Croatia – The River Cetina source in the Dalmatian hinterland beyond Split)**

This itinerary allows for a deeper dive into the culture and adventure that the Dalmatian coast has to offer.

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :————————————————————————— | :———- |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Split and begin your exploration of this historic city. | Split |
| Day 2 | Enjoy a Hinterland Cycling Tour & Picnic Lunch, discovering the local scenery. | Split |
| Day 3 | Take a Speedboat to Hvar, followed by a Private Boat Tour of Blue Cave & Stiniva Bay. | Stari Grad |
| Day 4 | Experience Sea Kayaking Around the picturesque Pakleni Islands. | Stari Grad |
| Day 5 | Enjoy a Free Day on Hvar, exploring at your own pace. | Hvar Town |
| Day 6 | Take a Ferry to Split & Transfer to Dubrovnik, with a stop in Trsteno. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 7 | Embark on a Wine Tour of the Pelješac Peninsula, indulging in local wines. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 8 | Explore Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” delving into its history. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 9 | Depart from Dubrovnik, carrying cherished memories. | |

Experience a harmonious blend of culture and adventure as you journey along the southern Dalmatian coast from Split to Dubrovnik. Immerse yourself in the ancient Roman walls and magnificent palaces of Split before embarking on a thrilling bike tour through the Croatian countryside. Discover several idyllic Adriatic islands, including Biševo, Vis, Hvar, and Korčula. Conclude your journey in Dubrovnik, where you’ll marvel at Baroque and Renaissance architecture, explore formidable fortress walls, and savor the exceptional wines native to the region.

## Beyond the Highlights: Extended Itineraries

For those with more time to spare, consider these extended itineraries that incorporate additional Croatian gems.

### A Week with Korčula: 7-Day Itinerary

**(Image: Velo Zaraće on Hvar)**

This itinerary adds the island of Korčula to the mix, offering a taste of its unique charm and beauty.

| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
| :—- | :———————————————————————- | :———- |
| Day 1 | Arrive in Dubrovnik and begin exploring the city. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 2 | Take a Day Trip to Konavle & enjoy a Bike Tour, experiencing the local landscape. | Dubrovnik |
| Day 3 | Transfer to Korčula via the scenic Pelješac Peninsula. | Korčula |
| Day 4 | Ferry to Hvar, and experience Sea Kayaking around the Pakleni Islands. | Hvar |
| Day 5 | Hike to the Hidden Villages of Hvar, discovering the island’s secrets. | Hvar |
| Day 6 | Ferry to Split, completing your island hopping adventure. | Split |
| Day 7 | Depart from Split, carrying memories of your Croatian adventure. | |

Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of the Dalmatian coast on this week-long exploration, commencing in Dubrovnik. Journey through the rugged Pelješac Peninsula to Korčula before making your way to Hvar, where you’ll discover the Pakleni Islands by kayak and hike through the island’s terrain to uncover hidden beaches. Conclude your trip with a self-guided tour of Split’s renowned Roman ruins set against the backdrop of Romanesque and Baroque architecture.

### A Comprehensive Tour: 10-Day Itinerary Including Zagreb

**(Image: Picturesque alleyways of Hvar Town)**

This itinerary begins in Zagreb, offering a broader perspective on Croatia’s diverse offerings.

This 10-day journey showcases the southern Dalmatian coast, from the Roman port city of Split to the medieval fortified walls of Dubrovnik, starting in Croatia’s capital, Zagreb. Immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes and a rich, ancient culture on this adventurous route, visiting stunning national parks, exploring Roman ruins, and kayaking off the mainland to neighboring islands.

### The Grand Croatian Tour: 12-Day Itinerary Including Korčula, Zadar, Zagreb & Plitvice Lakes

**(Image: Observation area overlooking the Adriatic near Viganj on the Pelješac Peninsula)**

This itinerary offers the most comprehensive experience, encompassing a wide range of Croatian destinations and activities.

In 12 days, gain a profound understanding of Croatia, from cultural explorations in Baroque and Renaissance cities to discovering one of the world’s best-preserved Roman structures. Explore walled medieval towns, vibrant markets, ancient ruins, and old fortresses. Sip on Dingac red wine on Peljesac, hike along wooden paths and bridges in Plitvice Lakes National Park, and unwind on Vis Island’s welcoming beaches.

## Navigating the Dalmatian Coast: Traveling Between Split, Dubrovnik & Hvar

Understanding the transportation options between these key destinations is crucial for planning a smooth and efficient trip.

**Reaching Split**

There are several convenient ways to travel to Split from other popular Croatian cities and regions, including Dubrovnik, Istria, and Zagreb.

**Getting to Dubrovnik**

The fastest and most straightforward way to reach Dubrovnik is by air. Dubrovnik airport boasts numerous international connections, as well as daily flights to the capital city of Zagreb, and other domestic destinations such as Rijeka, Osijek, and Split.

**Traveling from Dubrovnik to Hvar**

Dubrovnik and the island of Hvar are essential stops when exploring Croatia’s Dalmatian coast. A popular and convenient option is the passenger ferry—from June to September, two daily passenger ferries connect Dubrovnik and Hvar. A faster, easier, and significantly more expensive alternative to the ferry is a private boat transfer, which takes approximately three hours. If driving is preferred, the journey involves a car ferry, resulting in a total travel time of at least four hours.

B-576

Log in

Register