9 Days in Croatia: A Complete Itinerary
Considering visiting Croatia? This 9-day itinerary outlines everything you need to know before you visit!
I spent 9 days in Croatia island hopping, exploring seaside towns, and wandering through historical cities. It was one of the most unique and unforgettable trips I’ve ever taken.
I experienced everything from living on a boat for a week, biking in Hvar, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, kite surfing, hiking, and visiting the islands where Mamma Mia 2 and Game of Thrones were filmed.
This itinerary is packed with the best Croatia has to offer. It blends adventure, culture, and relaxation.
It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to experience Croatia’s highlights and authenticity and includes exactly where to go, what to do, where to eat, and where to stay, all based on what I did myself.
Ready to get a glimpse of 9 days in Croatia? Let’s get into it!
Croatia Itinerary: 9 Days Overview
9 days of sailing, swimming, exploring historic towns, and soaking up the sun. Here’s a quick look at what each day includes:
✨ Day 1: Split Old Town, Blue Lagoon swim, Dinner on Šolta
✨ Day 2: Blue Cave, Sail to Vis, Mamma Mia spots
✨ Day 3: Snorkeling, Pakleni Islands, Farm-to-table dinner
✨ Day 4: Bike ride, Wine tasting, Dinner in Stari Grad
✨ Day 5: Kite surfing, Dinner in Bol
✨ Day 6: Blaca hike, Maslinica village, Sunset dinner
✨ Day 7: Swim stop, Return to Trogir, Chill evening
✨ Day 8: Drive to Dubrovnik, Game of Thrones tour
✨ Day 9: City wall walk, Fly home
Day 1: Welcome to Split
Start your adventure in Split, an active coastal city full of history. Split is home to the ancient Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 4th century.
I recommend exploring the palace, along with its associated cathedral and bell tower. It’s one of the main sites of Split and one you don’t want to miss.
One of the most unique things about staying in Split is that you can actually sleep within the palace walls. I stayed at Murum Heritage Hotel, a cute boutique hotel nestled right inside the palace.
The rooms blend ancient stone architecture with modern comfort, and the location couldn’t be more central.
Also, spend time wandering the narrow alleyways of the Old Town, stopping at the farmer’s market, and strolling the Riva promenade. The views by the water are beautiful!
➡️ Join a Walking Tour to See the Old Town and Diocletian Palace in Split
After spending the night and the majority of the day in Split, we took the ferry to Trogir to meet the captain of the boat we’d be staying on for a week.
I highly recommend exploring Croatia by boat. It allows you to explore many islands without having to pack up everything and switch hotels often.
We traveled with the company, Active Cruises, with our boat captain, Jakov Dejkob. It was an incredible experience, and I loved that it was just me and my family on the boat!
We boarded our boat and spent the evening sailing and swimming in the Blue Lagoon– known for its turquoise waters and snorkeling– before heading to dinner.
We docked near Šolta Island and had dinner at Šišmiš Restaurant, a cozy seaside spot with incredible seafood and local wine
✅ Where to Stay: Murum Heritage Hotel
✅ Where to Eat: Šišmiš Restaurant
✅ Don’t Miss: Climbing the Bell Tower, walking the Riva, exploring Diocletian’s Palace
Day 2: Blue Cave + Sail to Vis
Today, it’s time to get out on the water. We sailed from Šolta Island to the Island of Vis, stopping at the famous Blue Cave along the way.
This is the most time we spent sailing, as it takes a few hours to get to Vis, but it’s the perfect time to relax on the boat and make a stop or two to swim.
The Blue Cave is stunning! It’s a cave only accessible by boat where you’re able to see bright blue water that glows.
The glowing effect is created when the sun’s rays enter through the water and reflect off the limestone of the cave.
It is a touristy spot but completely worthwhile!
➡️ Book a Tour to Experience the Blue Caves
From the Blue Cave, we continued on to Vis. Vis is one of the most remote islands in Croatia, and that’s part of its charm.
The island gained fame as the filming location for Mamma Mia 2, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why.
With less tourism than nearby Hvar or Brač, Vis has an authentic feel. Spend the evening exploring the harbor and town and swimming in the coves.
Dinner was at Konoba Jastožera, a restaurant built right over the water serving fresh seafood. I recommend getting the grilled calamari! The food is fresh, the wine is local, and the setting is beautiful.
✅ Where to Eat: Konoba Jastožera
✅ Where to Stay: Overnight on the boat in quiet cove near Vis
✅ Don’t Miss: Exploring the Blue Cave and visiting Komiža, the quieter side of Vis
Day 3: Snorkeling + Sailing to the Pakleni Islands
We started the morning with a sail along the coast of Vis, stopping a few times to snorkel in the calm, unbelievably clear water.
Having coffee and breakfast on the boat, reading my book in the sun, and swimming in the sea is literal perfection.
From there, we sailed to the Pakleni Islands, a group of small islands near Hvar. They’re in a quieter spot, and they’re beautiful, with clear water, rocky beaches, and great spots to swim or hang out on the boat.
It felt like the kind of place you could spend all day doing nothing, and be perfectly happy about it.
That night, we had dinner at Fisherman’s House, one of the most memorable meals of the trip.
It’s a farm-to-table spot tucked into the hillside with an entirely local menu, think grilled fish, local wine, and vegetables grown in their gardens right on the island.
Side note: When we went to dinner every night, we’d take a little dinghy boat from the catamaran to the dock on the island. These were small moments I loved! It made the trip more unique and made living on a boat for a week all the more authentic.
✅ Where to Eat: Fisherman’s House
✅ Where to Stay: Anchored near Sveti Klement Island
✅ Don’t Miss: Snorkeling near Vis, sunset views and swimming around the Pakleni Islands
Day 4: Biking + Wine in Stari Grad (on the island of Hvar)
We docked in Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe. It’s quiet, historic, and super walkable. It’s definitely worth spending some time wandering around.
We rented bikes and rode through olive groves and vineyards just outside the town, which was such a fun way to explore the countryside. The views of the sea were stunning!
We ended up at a small family-run winery for a tasting. The owners were so friendly, and the wine was great—one of those experiences that feels both local and low-key in the best way.
➡️ Explore Hvar with a Bike Ride and Enjoy a Stop at a Local Winery
In the evening, we explored more of the town and stopped at the Tvrdalj Castle, the Renaissance summer residence of the 16th-century poet, Petar Hektorović.
It’s a beautiful historical site. You can really feel the history in Stari Grad!
That night we had dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria Alfonso, a casual spot that serves Croatian-Italian food. Nothing fancy, but it totally hit the spot after a day of biking and wine.
Also, this was our only night staying right in the marina. It allowed us to stay out later at night and come and go from the boat more easily.
It was worth it, but I prefer staying in the quieter coves. You can see the stars better, and it’s far less crowded.
✅ Where to Eat: Ristorante Pizzeria Alfonso
✅ Where to Stay: Overnight on the boat in Stari Grad
✅ Don’t Miss: Biking through the Hvar countryside to a local winery
Day 5: Kite Surfing in Bol
Time for a little adrenaline. We spent the day in Bol, a chill beach town on the island of Brač that’s known for its wind—aka the perfect spot for kite surfing.
I’d never tried it before, but the instructors made it approachable and fun. Whether you’re riding the waves or just watching from shore, it’s a great experience. It was harder than I expected, but it was very fun.
Afterward, we had lunch on the boat (we had breakfast and lunch on the boat every day), spent time in the sun, and went swimming.
We found an outdoor sushi restaurant for dinner and ended up at a local festival and live music event after! It was perfect.
✅ Where to Stay: Overnight on the boat in Bol
✅ Don’t Miss: Kite surfing lessons
Day 6: Hike to Blaca + Cruising to Maslinica
We kicked off the morning with a hike to Blaca Hermitage, a centuries-old monastery built directly into the cliffs of Brač.
The trail is rocky and peaceful, and the views once you arrive are so worth it. We toured the monastery and experienced the historic place as a museum.
In the afternoon, we headed to Maslinica on the island of Šolta, a quiet little village with colorful boats, a few restaurants, and one main street that leads right to the water. It’s super relaxed.
We had dinner at Restaurant Šampjer, which sits up on a hill with amazing views and amazing food. It was the perfect spot to end our time island-hopping.
✅ Where to Eat: Restaurant Šampjer
✅ Where to Stay: Docked in Maslinica
✅ Don’t Miss: Blaca hike, dinner with a view in Maslinica
Day 7: Swim + Return to Trogir
After so many adventure-filled days, we slowed down and soaked up our last morning on the boat.
We swam near the Blue Lagoon again (still can’t get over that water), and then sailed back to the mainland, docking in Trogir.
Although quite touristy, Trogir is full of life, with cobblestone streets, medieval walls, and charming narrow alleyways.
We kept dinner casual at Pizzeria Murtela and strolled along the harbor afterward as the sun set behind the stone buildings.
We spent the night docked in Trogir– our last night on the boat:(
✅ Where to Eat: Pizzeria Murtela
✅ Where to Stay: Our boat docked in Trogir’s Old Town
✅ Don’t Miss: Sunset along the waterfront
Day 8: Dubrovnik + Game of Thrones Tour
After saying goodbye to life on the boat, we road-tripped down the coast to Dubrovnik. It was about four hours from Trogir with plenty of photo stops along the way.
The drive itself was stunning, with views of the sea at every turn. We hired a driver, but you could also rent a car or take a few ferries.
Once we arrived, we jumped straight into a Game of Thrones walking tour through the Old Town.
Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, the guide was amazing and shared so much history alongside the filming details.
➡️ Book a Game of Thrones Walking Tour in Dubrovnik
I will say my family got more out of the tour than I did, as I’m not a Game of Thrones fan. If you haven’t seen the series, I’d suggest a different tour (check out the one below).
➡️ Explore Old Town in Dubrovnik with a Walking Tour
We then stopped at the Buža Bar near the water. If you’re into a party scene or cliff jumping, this is the spot!
You can jump off the cliffs into the water right from the bar. It was a popular spot, so plan for crowds.
For dinner, we wanted to go to the highly-rated ARKA Dubrovnik in Old Town, but it was closed for a private event. However, we ended up at a local outdoor spot right in Old Town, and it was great!
✅ Where to Eat: ARKA Dubrovnik
✅ Where to Stay: Airbnb outside the castle walls
✅ Don’t Miss: Game of Thrones tour, exploring Old Town
➡️ Book this Airbnb in Dubrovnik
Day 9: Dubrovnik Morning + Departure
If you didn’t get a chance the day before, start your morning with a walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls.
The views of the rooftops and the sea are so worth it! It’s one of the best ways to take in the city before you end your trip.
➡️ Book an Early Morning Walking Tour of the City Walls
Last stop: fly home.
✅ Where to Stay: Extend your stay in Dubrovnik if you can;)
✅ Don’t Miss: City wall walk before you leave
What to Know Before Visiting Croatia
☑️ Currency: Croatia now uses the Euro, which makes things easier if you’re coming from other parts of Europe. Most places take card, but some don’t, so it’s always good to have some cash.
☑️ Language: The official language is Croatian, but you’ll be totally fine with English in most tourist areas, especially along the coast and on the islands.
☑️ Best time to visit: Late May through September is ideal. July and August are the hottest and busiest, but if you want fewer crowds and perfect weather, June or early September is your best bet (we went in June).
☑️ Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory but is appreciated. Around 10% is standard at restaurants and cafés.
☑️ Power plugs: Croatia uses Type C and F plugs (the standard two-round-pin ones used throughout Europe), so make sure to bring a European adapter if you’re coming from the U.S. or elsewhere.
☑️ Getting around: You’ll likely be combining a few modes of transportation, cars for mainland travel, ferries or catamarans between major islands, and possibly private boats for island hopping. Plan ahead during high season, as tickets and rentals can book up quickly.
FAQs
Do I need a car for this itinerary?
Not necessarily. If you’re sailing, you’ll be taken care of. But for land travel between Trogir and Dubrovnik, renting a car is helpful.
How expensive is Croatia?
Croatia is more affordable than Western Europe, but some islands (like Hvar) can be pricey during high season.
Is 9 days in Croatia enough?
Yes! You’ll cover a ton of ground, especially if you’re sailing. This itinerary hits the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Final Thoughts on 9 Days in Croatia
Croatia completely blew me away!
From the clear blue water to the small towns, amazing food, and nonstop views, it was one of the most memorable and unique trips I’ve ever taken.
I hope this 9-day itinerary helps you plan something that feels just as fun and laid-back.
And if you’re still wondering if Croatia’s worth visiting, the answer is absolutely yes. Go! You won’t regret it.
