Croatia in one week

Zagreb

My husband and I planned a week long trip in Croatia to celebrate our 11yr wedding anniversary. Neither of us knew much about Croatia, and were unsure what to expect. I had previously mapped out an idea of our route and where we may stay around the country. I saved information on hikes, long drives, and what cities we wanted to explore further. And with each stop our love for this place grew. Quickly we noticed our pace slow down, and the level of appreciation for such a unique country grew more evident.

Istria Country

I was very excited to make a stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park. It is a forest reserve in central Croatia. Walkways wind around the falls and lakes as you settle into a zen state following the wood planks. Their are 16 terraced lakes, that are connected by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon. And depending on the time of year you go, your experience will be completely different. We enjoyed the Fall colors and deepness of auburn and yellows hues.

Plitvice National Park

Plitvice National Park wood plank walkway

From this point, we drove onward to Split. For those Game of Thrones fans you may know what to expect from Split. Our Airbnb was located in Old Town. Little did we know the roads to get to this area and our ‘apartment’ for the night were nearly un-driveable. But, my husband handled the challange like a champ. We went into the streets winding through old stone buildings as the street narrowed and narrowed. Oncoming traffic would approach, and the only way out was to drive the whole windy road back in reverse to allow locals to pass. It was nerve racking and impressive to say the least.

View of Split from Old Clock Tower

Charm of Split

This made our introduction to Split very intimidate and gave us an immediate impression of the area. Within its white stone walls and under its courtyards are a cathedral and numerous shops, bars, cafes, hotels and houses. We ended up spending two full days here before taking a boat ride over to Hvar Island.

Views out of our Airbnb window in Old Town

Split from a distance at sun set

As much as we have been enjoying the old romantic towns, small streets, ancient history, and incredible structures, we were so excited to spend the day on & in the water. We booked a day tour with Hvar Tours where they took us to cliff jump, the smallest beach, and the blue caves!

Hvar

Blue Cave Smallest Beach in Hvar

Walk along the island of Hvar

View of Clock Tower, Hvar

Town of Hvar

After spending the day on the water we came back to the Island and took a walk up to the Old Tower where we enjoyed a sunset overlooking the town below.

Sun set by Old Tower in Hvar

Dubrovnik was our final stop on our trip. It is a popular city in southern Croatia fronting the Adriatic Sea that is known for its Old Town. Along the water sits old ancient city walls that were completed in the 16th century. These walls create a city within the city. Dubrovnik’s uniqueness is so charming with its limestone streets and stairs that fill alley ways for the most romantic of night walks.

Within the Old City Walls

Due to its popularity you will see cruise ships along the water front with tourists from all over the world ready to explore the culture, food, and history of this incredible city. It is full of energy and nightlife but also has an intimite feel because of the small side streets. It is very dreamy! And if you wish to get a different experience then take the Cable Car up to Mount Srd to enjoy Old City views and a wonderful meal on the side of the cliff.

Old City Walls

Cable Car rides to the ridge above the city

It truly was the perfect way to end our jounrey in this stunning Country. I feel like there is something for everyone in Croatia. Those that are wanting a laid back vaction with a waterfront view, an adventurous and active trip with hikes and boat rides, or that city feel to go shopping and enjoy night life and culture.

Last night and sunset in Croatia, Dubrovnik