Croatia in 2-3 days
For a quick break in Croatia head to the main cities of Split or Dubrovnik. Step back in time by visiting Split’s beautiful Roman palace of the emperor Diocletian and marvel at the magnificent cathedral of St Dominus. There’s plenty of archeological museums to explore or just stock up on lavendar, olive oil and jewellery at the markets. Take a day trip to the ancient Roman ruins of Solin (Salona) among the vineyards and at the foot of the mountains.
You won’t regret visiting Dubrovnik with its ancient Old Town, 15th century monuments and gleaming marble streets. Take a guided walking tour or go diving off Dubrovnik’s clear blue waters. The Dubrovnik Summer Festival is a vibrant time to go.
In 7-9 days
Fly to Split and go island hopping to the surrounding isles. You can sail from Split south to Mljet, pop into Dubrovnik and head back via the majestic coastline in just over a week. You can easily spend a week visiting any of the coastal island areas, as mentioned in Croatia’s highlights.
Two weeks +
Get the party started in Zagreb with its hot nightlife and diverse restaurants. Explore its medieval Upper Town and Austrian-influenced Lower Town, with plenty of museums to keep you busy. Head south to the Plitvice Lakes National Park to immerse yourself in its lakes and waterfalls. Visit historic Zadar and pop over to the island of Pag for a day trip. Before reaching Sibenik to see a cathedral that surpasses all others in Croatia, visit the Krka National Park for a dip under the falls. Stop at the Roman ruins of Solin before more partying and cultural overload in Split.
Go sailing in Croatia, stopping off at the majestic islands with their varied histories, vineyards, wild flowers and translucent waters. Or go inland to trek from Zagreb north via the quaint town of Samodor and further north to Trakoscan castle and the baroque town of Varazdin. Stop off for a spring revival at Varazdinske Toplice, at a warm temperature of 58 degrees Celsius. Head across the rolling hills to Osijek, a Hungarian-influenced town and visit wartorn Vukovar.
