The Geographical Cure

The Best 10 Days In Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary

Planning a classic Croatian-Slovenia road trip? This is the ultimate 10 day itinerary for visiting Croatia and Slovenia.

the stunning walled city of Dubrovnik in Croatia

This ten day itinerary takes you on a journey from Dubrovnik Croatia to Ljubljana Slovenia.

It’s a popular road trip route that’s dense with exciting cities, must see medieval villages, UNESCO-listed landmarks, and loads of old world seaside charm.

travel croatia and slovenia

Croatia is a stunningly beautiful country. It has something for everyone — stunning waterfall-laced landscapes, gorgeous beaches, historic landmarks, Roman ruins, and charming hamlets.

In the Dalmatian Coast, dramatic cliffs rise above islands set in azure water.

Tiny overlooked Slovenia is one of Europe’s most charming and delightful off the radar destinations. It’s a gravely beautiful land of imposing green mountains, shimmering glacial blue lakes, and medieval towns.

Lake Bled in Slovenia

Slovenia is every bit as beautiful as Croatia. But it has an independent spirit and slightly different charm all of its own. Slovenia also lacks the crowds and high prices of other European countries.

This 10 day Croatia-Slovenia itinerary begins in Dubrovnik, Croatia’s fairytale walled city. From Dubrovnik, you’ll travel through the beautiful Dalmatian Coast of Croatia.

You’ll cut inland to Plitvice Lakes National Park and then enter Slovenia, basing yourself in the lovely capital of Ljubljana for the rest of the trip.

Trogir Croatia

10 Days In Croatia And Slovenia Itinerary Overview:

Length of Trip : 10 days or more

Start and End Point : Dubrovnik Croatia and Ljubljana Slovenia

UNESCO World Heritage Sites : Dubrovnik, Kotor, Diocletian’s Palace, Trogir, Plitvice Lakes National Park

Here’s my recommended 10 day itinerary for a self drive road trip in Croatia and Slovenia. You don’t need to pick up your rental car until day 3 when you day trip to Kotor Montenegro. You won’t want or need a car in Dubrovnik the first two days.

the Adriatic Sea

  • Day 1 : Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 2 : Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 3 : Day Trip to Kotor Montenegro
  • Day 4 : Drive To Split and explore Split
  • Day 5 : Split: Island Hopping Tour
  • Day 6 : Day Trip To Zadar or Trogir
  • Day 7 : Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park en route to Ljubljana
  • Day 8 : Explore Ljubljana
  • Day 9 : Day Trip to Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge
  • Day 10 : Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle
  • More Time? Istrian Coast or Julian Alps

For this 10 day Croatia-Slovenia road trip, you’ll have three bases: Dubrovnik (3 nights), Split (3 nights), and Ljubljana (4 nights). I give you tips on where to stay for each base.

beautiful Dubrovnik

Split is a busy city. If you’d rather stay somewhere quieter, you can easily base in Zadar or Trogir instead.

There are plenty of great destinations to explore in Croatia and Slovenia. This super detailed 10 day road trip itinerary is perfectly adjustable.

You can make it shorter or longer, depending on your available vacation time or personal fast/slow travel pace. I’ve tried to give you a mix of cities and leisurely villages, with day trip options as well.

You can also reverse the order and start in Ljubljana and end in Dubrovnik.

the beautiful harbor in Dubrovnik

The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary for Croatia and Slovenia

Here’s how to spend 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia:

Day 1: Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is dazzling and divine. It’s fairytale pretty, the perfect version of what you would imagine a medieval European city looks like.

Dubrovnik has colorful orange terra cotta rooftops, stunning views of the Adriatic Sea, and fame as a Game of Thrones filming location.

my daughter and I walking the Dubrovnik city walls

Dubrovnik has a perfect setting on the turquoise blue Adriatic sea, an impressive mountain backdrop, and some impressive historic landmarks.

Its walls are one of the greatest fortifications of the middle ages.

1. City Walls

Begin your day bright and early with a walk along the city walls. Be sure to climb Micenta Tower. It’s the highest point on the walls. The fortress itself is a stony and cramped experience, but the views are terrific.

view from city walls

The city walls cost 200 kuna and will take approximately 2-3 hours, though there is an exit midway. Click  here  to pre-book an admission ticket for the city walls. You can also book a 2 hour guided tour of the walls to make sure you see all the sites.

You should arrive when the walls open at 8:00 am (in high season) to avoid the hordes of tourists from cruise ships and stave off heat exhaustion from the lack of shade. Alternatively, go around 5:00 pm.

After your tour of the walls, relax over a luxe lunch at Proto , a seafood restaurant in the old town between Siroka and Vara streets.

view of the old town from the city walls

2. Old Town

In the afternoon, explore the pedestrian-only old city. All the attractions can easily be visited by foot. You can also book a 2 hour guided walking tour of the old town to get oriented.

Take a proper stroll down Dubrovnik’s main drag, the 13th century Stradun Street. If you enter via the Ploce Gate or Pile Gate, you are right at the street. Fill up your water bottle at Onofrio’s Fountain.

Along Stradun, you’ll see stunning Venetian style buildings. Explore the hidden pathways and staircases.

aerial view of the Stradun

Inspect the beautiful Jesuit Staircase, reminiscent of the Spanish Steps in Rome .

Step inside the Church of St. Blaise and admire its opulent interior. The Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and Dubrovnik Cathedral are likewise impressive. The Rector’s Palace houses the city museum and a concert hall.

One of Dubrovnik’s prize landmarks is its Clock Tower in Luza Square. The tower dates from 1444. At the top, two bronze statues ring the bell each day at noon.

At the end of Stradun Street, you’ll find the port. You’ll find restaurants, boats, and yachts — all set amid a lively atmosphere. If you love boat tours, this is the point of disembarkation.

the Rector's Palace

3. Mt. Srd Via Cable Car

In the early evening, take the Dubrovnik Cable Car up to Mt. Srd for a stunning sunset. Plan to arrive an hour or so before sunset.

Alternatively, have a cocktail at Buza Bar . It’s a super casual cliffside bar built into the city walls. There, you’ll have gorgeous views over the Adriatic.

If you’ve opted for the cable car ride, there’s an amazing restaurant at the top of Mt. Srd — Panorama Restaurant . The food is quite good and the epic viewpoint makes it seem even better. Book a table in advance and ask for a table with a view.

The evening is also a good time to take a guided food tour or take an evening walking tour where you don’t have to jostle crowds.

rooftops of Dubrovnik

Day 2: Dubrovnik

Begin day 2 with breakfast at Gradska Kavana Arsenal. It’s a casual place situated in the heart of the old town and overlooks the old port, Arsenal.

1. Lovrijenac Fortress

On day 2, head to the 11th century fortress, Lovrijenac Fortress (also known as the St. Lawrence Fortress). Above the door leading to the fortress is a famous inscription carved in stone: “Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro” (“Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold of the world”).

view of Lovrijenac Fortress from the city walls

From the fortress aerie, you are assaulted with the best views of Dubrovnik. Your ticket to the city walls gives you entrance to the fortress, so keep it with you.

2. Lokrum Island

In the late morning, take a ferry out to Lokrum Island from the harbor. They leave every hour or so, more frequently in summer. It’s just a 15 minute ride.

Lokrum Island has rock slab beaches, gardens, a Benedictine Monastery, and stunning views of Dubrovnik. There are a couple places to grab a bite to eat. But you may want to bring a picnic lunch.

Once there, you can pose on an Iron Throne from Game of Thrones . (Lokrum doubled as the City of Qarth in GOT).

Lokrum Island

Or, if you’re athletic and need a workout, you can take a kayaking tour around Lokrum Island. Be sure to book in advance. You can also kayak in the Dubrovnik Harbor.

3. Game of Thrones Tour

In the late afternoon, if you’re a Game of Throne s fan, take a Game of Thrones tour (2-3 hours). Dubrovnik served as King’s Landing in the series and there are myriad filming locations.

Some tours take you to Lokrum island, but most don’t and stay on the mainland. Here’s my guide to taking a Game of Thrones tour in Dubrovnik .

Here are your tour options:

  • a  2.5 hour walking tour
  • a  3.0 hour walking tour  (this is the one I took and enjoyed)
  • a  tour that includes Lokrum Island
  • a  7 hour private tour
  • a  tour that also takes you to GOT locations in Split

4. Beach Time

If instead you need some afternoon down time, lounge on a beach. Just a 35 minute drive from Dubrovnik is a splendid beach, Sveti Pasjaca Beach. Closer by is Sveti Jakov Beach.

Sveti Jakov Beach, just 8 minutes from Dubrovnik

5. Dinner and Drinks

In the early evening, head to d’Vino Wine Bar for a cocktail. For dinner, head to Kopun . You can try the city speciality, castrated rooster. Another good option is Azur , a fusion of Mediterranean and Asian food.

Alternatively, try a classic Croatian Peka meal. This is a particularly good idea for those who don’t like seafood. In the Peka style of cooking, lamb or veal is slow cooked under a bed of coals.

Where To Stay In Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik has some beautiful hotels. You’re spoiled for choice. 

The  Scalini Palace  is centrally located and housed in a 16th century stone house. The  Hotel Excelsior  is perched above the old Town with stunning views. 

The  Pucic Palace  is a beautiful Baroque hotel in the cobbled Old Town. Also in Old Town is the pretty boutique hotel  Hotel Stari Grad .

the stunning town of Kotor Montenegro, must visit town with 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia

Day 3: Day Trip to Kotor

One day 3, it’s time for your first day trip. And this one is in another country, Kotor Montenegro.

It’s an approximately 1.5 to 2 hour to Kotor drive from Dubrovnik. You may also experience delays crossing the border when you return Croatia. But Kotor is worth the hassle.

You may want to book a  guided day tour from Dubrovnik . Or, once there, you may want to take a  guided walking tour  to get oriented. You can also book this  Rick Steves recommended walking tour with food and wine .

Kotor lies, perfectly at ease with its dramatic setting, at the end of the photogenic Bay of Kotor. Its backdrop is the brooding Lovcen Mountains. Some call Kotor Europe’s southernmost fjord. Others refer to it as a “little Dubrovnik.”

Set in the fjord-like bay, jaw dropping Kotor is less a town than a labyrinth of narrow cobbled passageways, filled mostly with cats, who sprawl across the doors of lovely Romanesque churches and snuggle in tourists’ laps. Kotor is surely one of Europe’s most picturesque villages.

the bay of Kotor

Not surprisingly, the ancient walled town of Kotor Montenegro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s easily one of the best preserved medieval towns in the Adriatic.

There’s delightfully little to do in Kotor. There is no long “must see” list. You can pack away your guide books and maps, and venture forth with only camera and imagination in tow.

There are only four essentials: wander the picturesque Venice-like old town, hike to the Castle of San Giovani for spectacular views, admire the confident and ubiquitous Kotorian cats, and try a hot oily Montenegrin burek.

Weapons Square

When you enter the main gate, you arrive at Weapons Square, the largest open space in Kotor.

There, you will find Kotor’s Clock Tower, which dates from the early 17th century. It endearingly leans and lurches slightly, as befitting a historic building.

Kotor is also filled with Romanesque churches and Venetian-influenced palaces. None of them are individually very impressive All of them add to the atmospherics of the small town.

the beautiful city of Split Croatia

Day 4: Drive To Split

On day 4 of your 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, drive to Split.

There’s nothing much worth seeing between Dubrovnik and Split besides the lovely coastline. But if you take the modern highway, you’ll have the fastest route. The drive from Dubrovnik to Split is approximately 3.5 hours.

Split is a fairly busy place. If you want something more mellow after Dubrovnik, you could opt to stay in Trogir or Zadar instead. Both make excellent bases for seeing the sites and towns in Croatia.

1. Split’s Old Town

After you’ve settled in in Split, explore the elegant and stony old town. Split’s an ancient city that dates back to Roman times. It has an incredible natural setting. There’s a whole range of drool worthy historical, cultural, and natural offerings.

Click here to book a  1.5 hour guided walking tour  of the Old Town. Or take a  2 hour Segway tour .

Peristyle Square in Diocletian's Palace

2. Dioceltian’s Palace

The one must see site in Split is the UNESCO-listed Diocletian’s Palace. With a fetching location on the dramatic Split harbor, Diocletian’s Palace is Split’s #1 attraction. And justifiably so.

Diocletian’s Palace is one of the most imposing ancient Roman structures in existence today. It’s not just a stand alone palace, or a museum, or a UNESCO site. It’s the living, breathing, vibrant heart of Split.

READ : Guide To Ruins and Archaeological Sites in Rome

the bell tower of Diocletian's Palace

The 4th century complex is a sprawling maze of beautifully preserved ancient ruins, shops, restaurants, apartments, and people. It’s a delightful confluence of ancient history and modern life, happily commingled as a “living museum.”

The key highlights are the Peristyle, the Cathedral of Saint Dominus, the Bell Tower, the Temple of Jupiter, and the four palace gates.

The bell tower is where you’ll get a stunning bird’s eye view of the palace grounds and Split’s incredible setting. Avoid it if you’re scared of heights though.

Here’s my complete  guide to Diocletian’s Palace . Click  here  to book a guided tour of the palace. If you want to visit the crypt, click here for a ticket.

the Riva Promenade in Split

3. Old Town

While Diocletian’s Palace dominates the old town, there are still some pretty pedestrianized squares, impressive churches, and markets outside the palace walls that you shouldn’t miss.

Be sure to take in Narodni Trg (the main plaza), Vocni Trg, and Trg Republike. Check out the National Theater and the fish market (Ribarnica).

4. Riva Promenade

In the evening, stroll along the Riva Promenade. Dubbed “the Riva” by locals, the walkway spans the entire length of the old town. With impressive views of the Adriatic Sea and swoon worthy palm trees, this promenade provides a taste of Split’s idyllic coastal lifestyle.

But the Riva is busy. It’s home to restaurants, cafes, and luxury hotels. Sit down and have a coffee or cocktail. This is probably not the best place to dine though. The restaurants are rather touristy, and hence overpriced with mediocre food. Strolling is the best activity.

view from Hvar Fortress

Day 5: Split: Island Hopping

Your second day in Split book an island hopping tour. It’s not easy to visit the islands on your own. But an island hopping tour is one of the best things to do in Split. The coastal town makes a great jumping off point to sail the Adriatic Sea.

Island Tour

You have many tour options/permutations from half day, to full day, to a super extended day. You options are:

You have many tour options/permutations from half day, to full day, to a super extended day. You can:

  • a  l ong 5 islands boat tour
  • a  3 islands boat tour with lunch
  • a  4 islands boat tour
  • a  Blue Cave tour with lunch
  • a  catamaran tour to Hvar
  • a  Hvar and Blue Cave tour

We opted for the later and it was a lengthy 12 hour affair, when all was said and done. But it was a beautiful way to spend the day. Wear your swimsuit. There will be multiple chances to take a cooling dip in the sea.

pretty Stivina beach

The UNESCO town of Hvar is known as the “sunniest island in the Adriatic Sea.” And also as a buzzy boozy party island.

The sunny place attracts tourists galore. But if you go off season, you’ll skip this rather dreary side note and be medievalized by the enchanting place.

If you need to detox from tourists or cocktails, hike up to the hilltop fortress, Fortica Španjola, surrounded by pine trees, for excellent views.

The popular Blue Cave is on Bisevo Island. This magical grotto glows with the preternatural blue hues, created by sunlight bouncing off its white limestone floor. You can only visit via boat; you can’t swim in the cave itself.

Hvar Island

Aside from Hvar and the Blue Cave, the other islands you can visit include Vis, Budikovac, and Hell Islands (with Palmižana beach). We had lunch on Budikovac.

The most scenic beach was the tiny cove-like Stiniva Beach on Vis, voted the “best beach in Europe” in 2016.

Where To Stay in Split

The  Judita Palace Heritage Hotel  is the luxury choice. It’s housed in a palace next to Diocletian’s Palace. 

Central Square Heritage Hotel  is an elegant hotel in the very heart of Split. The  Villa Split Heritage Hotel  is a romantic place housed with Diocletian’s Palace.

For a boutique hotel, check out the  Briig Boutique Hotel . It’s a gorgeous hotel with minimalist decor located in central Split. it has a rooftop swimming pool.

town of Zadar

Day 6: Day Trip to Either Zadar or Trogir

1. option 1: zadar.

Zadar is an incredibly underrated town in Croatia. Compact Zadar is built for wandering. The colorful town is adorned with building in both pastel and bolder hues. You can book a guided day trip tour from Split to Zadar .

Stroll along the waterfront and listen to the Sea Organ. It’s a massive musical instrument entirely powered by waves. There’s also the Sun Salutation, a solar powered light display that will wow you in the evening.

For culture lovers, Zadar is full of Roman ruins and pretty churches. If the heat has you down, head inside to the splendid and well-curated Archaeological Museum .

the ancient St. Donatus Church in Zadar

St. Donatus Church is 800 years old and Zadar’s main landmark. The church is nearly perfectly preserved. Its round pre-Romanesque facade is the very symbol of Zadar. The church is sometimes a venue for Renaissance music concerts.

St. Mary’s Church is also a beauty. In the 11th century, it once belonged to a Benedictine Monastery. Though damaged in WWII, the church was completely restored. Zadar’s Romanesque cathedral is also a must see, dating from the 11th century.

Zadar also boasts the largest Roman forum on the Adriatic. Built by Emperor Augustus in the 1st century, the forum was discovered and excavated in 1930. You’ll find the ruins of fragmented columns and a pillory, where criminals received public punishments.

Before heading back to Split, end your day in Zadar with a meal at Restaurant Bruschetta . And try a chocolate truffle at Vitlov Chocolate .

the UNESCO-listed town of Trogir

2. Option 2: Trogir

I loved storybook Trogir, known as Croatia’s “stone beauty.” Trogir is secluded on a tiny island and encircled with medieval walls.

And, only 30 minutes away, it’s an easy day trip or half day trip from Split if you go by car. You can also book a guided day tour from Split.

Trogir feels like its made entirely of limestone and tangled alleyways, and sprinkled with fairy dust. Everywhere you look, there’s stunning architecture and cobbled lanes.

All you really need to do is stroll the medieval streets and find a quaint nook to dine in. This isn’t hard!

the waterfront promenade in Trogir

For a view of the pretty town, climb Kamerlengo Fortress. The fortress was originally built by the Venetians in the mid15th century. You can now visit it for about 3 €.

Stop in at the Cathedral of St. Lawrence. Built in a Romanesque-Gothic style, the church is part of Trogir’s UNESCO designation.

If heights don’t bother you, you can climb to the top of the bell tower.

aerial view of Plitvice Lakes National Park

Day 7: Stop in Plitvice Park En Route To Ljubljana

On day 7 of your 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, it’s time to head to Ljubljana Slovenia.

En route, you’ll stop at Plitvice Lakes National Park. Click  here  to book a skip the line admission ticket. You really should because the lines to buy same day tickets are epically long. Click  here  to book a guided tour of the park.

The park is a must visit destination in Croatia, especially for nature lovers. It’s the perfect midway point between Split and Ljubljana Slovenia.

The park is approximately 2.5 hours from Split. From the park, it’s another 3 hours to Ljubljana. You’ll need to start early to have a solid 3-4 hours to hike around Plitvice. And you’ll want to pack a picnic lunch.

walking paths in Plitvice

The gorgeous Plitvice Park is full of vibrant colors. It boasts turquoise water, terraced lakes, stunning viewpoints, and photogenic gushing waterfalls. You’ll be stunned at the breathtaking technicolor views at every turn.

In 1979, Plitvice Lakes became a UNESCO site. It’s one of the most popular destinations in Croatia, with over a million annual visitors.

Plitvice Lakes can be overwhelming to visit. There are different levels of lakes, four different hiking trails, 7 different routes through the park, and 2 different entrances. And there will be crowds.

stunning waterfalls in Plitvice Park

Pristine Plitvice is divided roughly into three areas — the lower lake section (Donja Jezera), the upper lake section (Gornja Jezera) and a third area around Proscansko Lake.

The lower lakes section is accessed by Entrance 1 and includes the iconic Veliki Slap Waterfall. There are several detours off the main trail, which take you to viewing points.

From the lower lakes, you can take electric boats or the shuttle to the upper lakes section. Beyond that is the Proscansko Lake.

Here’s my complete guide to visiting Plitvice Lakes , with must know tips for visiting.

the beautiful city of Ljubljana

Day 8: Explore Ljubljana

On day 8 of your 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia it’s time to explore the utterly charming town of Ljubljana.

Lovely Ljubljana is a small, laidback, and walkable town. You can cover Ljubljana’s main attractions in one day. But if you have extra time, it’s worth another day.

You may want to book a 2 hour walking tour with a local to get oriented. You can also book a walking tour that includes Ljubljana Castle .

1. Preseren Square and the Bridges

Spend plenty of time wandering the cobbled old town. Start at the city’s heart, Preseren Square. It’s lined with historic landmarks and dedicated to Slovenia’s greatest poet.

the

Cross the Venetian-looking Triple Bridge and wander along the emerald green river — taking in the whimsical bridges and Jože Plečnik architecture.

Be sure to admire the “pink church,” the Franciscan Church of the Annunciation . It’s an iconic landmark in Ljubljana.

2. Ljubljana Castle

For lunch, check out the Central Market or eat at one of the cafes along the lively river embankment. Then explore Ljubljana Castle on Castle Hill. You can click here to book a skip the line ticket.

From Dragon Bridge, it’s a steep hike up or easy funicular ride to the castle. But you’ll have lovely views over Ljubljana from the top.

view from Ljubljana Castle

3. Architecture Tour

In the afternoon, consider taking a guided architecture tour . You’ll learn all about Plečnik and seeing Ljubljana’s beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, including the striking Vurnik House.

Plečnik shaped Ljubljana, just like Gaudi shaped Barcelona and Bernini shaped Rome . You can also book a guided tour of Plečnik’s works , which includes a river cruise.

If you prefer street art, head over to the Metelkova Mesto district, just a short stroll from the medieval old town. It has an edgy bohemian feel.

Aside from the cutting edge street art, there are pop up flea markets and temporary exhibitions. You can also take a guided street art tour , which I always think are fun.

Ljubljana's main shopping and restaurant street

4. Ljubljana’s Main Drag

If you like shopping, you’ll love Ljubljana. Its main street, which changes names from Mestni trg to Start trg, is lined with quaint shops. You can pick up all sorts of souvenirs and/or clothing.

There are also plenty of restaurants here serving up delicious seafood and Ljubljana’s specialty, fried frog legs.

5. River Cruise & Dinner

With so many bridges and fetching sites along the River, it makes sense to take a 30 minute river cruise. The late afternoon is the perfect time.

For dinner, check out this extensive guide to the best restaurants in Ljubljana .

my daughter on Butcher's Bridge in Ljubljana

Where To Stay In Ljubljana

There are a lot of cute boutique hotels in Ljubljana:  Hotel Angel ,  Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel , and the  Antiq Palace Hotel and Spa .

You can also swank it up with a luxury stay at the  Vander Urbani Resort  on the river embankment or the  Grand Hotel Union .

lake Bled, a must visit attraction to visit with 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia

Day 9: Day Trip to Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge

One day 9 of you’re 10 day itinerary, it’s time to head to Slovenia’s most iconic place, lake Bled.

Lake Bled is the most popular day trip from Ljubljana and Slovneia’s top alpine resort. Lake Bled is just 45 minutes from Ljubljana by car. Park behind the Hotel Krim in Bled and pay for parking by SMS.

You can also book a small group day trip from Ljubljana to Lake Bled . Or a private guided day tour to Lake Bled . Or a tour that includes Bled Castle .

Lake Bled sits placidly in the shadow of the Julian Alps in Slovenia, thronged by forests and mountains. It’s a frankly outrageous combination of blue and green.

Lake Bled boasts a cliffhanging medieval castle carved into a mountain. It’s a “fairytale” destination and the #1 tourist attraction in Slovenia.

Bled Island

Take the 3 mile walk around the lake, stopping to take in the contrasting green wooded and azure views and admire the swans. If you’d rather, you can rent a bike and or take an electric bike tour .

You can also take a plenta boat tour out to the only natural island in Slovenia, tiny Bled Island. There, you’ll find the 17th century pilgrimage Church of the Assumption . You can ring the church bell three times for good luck.

Hike up to the 11th century Bled Castle , which is often hailed as the oldest castle in Slovenia. It’s perched 130 meters above the lake’s walking path, its red turrets and roofs making a splash on the blue skyscape.

The small castle has ramparts, moats, romanesque walls, and Renaissance buildings — everything you might expect from a medieval fortress.

beautiful water at Vintgar Gorge

If you have extra time, you should head to the photogenic Vintgar Gorge, a short 15 minute drive north of Lake Bled. If your don’t want to drive, you can book a guided day tour from Ljubljana that includes both Bled and Vinegar Gorge .

I found it almost as scenically satisfying as Bled, and it was ever so slightly less touristy. It’s open 8:00 am-7:00 pm in the summer, entry is € 5.

Vintgar Gorge is a 1.6 kilometer wooden walkway that zig zags over the Radovna River. It reaches 100 meters in some places and clings to the side of cliffs, sometimes leaving room for only a single file shuffle.

It’s a relatively flat and easy to walk in and out trail. At the end of the trail is the impressive 16 meter Šum Waterfall flowing beneath the Bohinj railway bridge.

Linhartov trg square in Rodovjica

3. Rodovljica

On the way back from the Lake Bled area, you can stop in Rodovljica. Or you can book a guided tour from Ljubljana that includes lunch in Rodovljica .

It’s a tiny quaint town that exudes old world charm. Its traffic free center is jammed with historic buildings in the charming Linhartov trg square.

This is a great place to pick up a souvenir or nurse a coffee. Rodovljica also has a rather eccentric beekeeping museum.

Postojna Cave

Day 10: Day Trip To Postojna Cave And Predjama Castle

On the last day of your 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, take a day trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. You can book a 5 hour guided tour from Ljubljana that covers both attractions.

1. Postojna Cave

Postojna Cave is the largest cave system in Slovenia, spanning 12 miles. You board an open air train, which slings you into a gaping hole in the mountain. One of the caverns is lit with chandeliers.

Once there, you’ll follow a guide down well lit paths. As you hike up the “Big Mountain,” you’re surrounded by a sea of stalagmites and stalactites. Hiking back down, you’ll pass “Spaghetti Hall” (with long skinny stalactites and curtains of rocks) to the “Concert Hall.”

Predjama Castle

2. Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is Slovenia’s fairytale cave castle, just 15 minutes from Postojna Cave. Tucked into the mouth of a towering cliff, the cave castle is one of Slovenia’s most famous attractions — a cave fortress filled with secret tunnels and hidden caves.

Your first glimpse is breathtaking. Predjama Castle’s whitewashed walls are set off by the landscape and natural rock.

No fairytale castle is complete without an accompanying romantic folk legend. And Predjama Castle has one. It’s a romantic legend featuring a rebellious knight and robber baron who fancied himself a Slovenian Robin Hood, named Erazem Lueger.

Erazem stole from the rich to give to the poor. He outlasted a siege by the Hapsburgs using a secret tunnel.

After you’re done, head back to Ljubljana for you final night. If you want to treat yourself to a delicious meal, try the Michelin starred Strelec Restaurant or Maxim .

Tartini Square in Piran Slovenia

More Time in Slovenia?

If you have more than 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, head to either the Istrian Coast (for beach lovers) or the Julian Alps (for nature and hiking lovers).

On a slender finger of a peninsula, encircled by the sparkling Adriatic sea, sits the picturesque and charming town of Piran. You’ll feel like you’ve been power beamed to Tuscany . It’s a little slice of Italy . You can drive or book a day trip tour from Ljubljana .

Semi-crumbling pastel facades that Michelangelo might have sculpted rise above ancient maze-like streets. Venetian architecture is adorned with tracery windows.

The compact historic core is one of the best preserved medieval sites in the Mediterranean. Piran’s reminiscent of Venice , but without the canals or hordes of tourists.

Click here to book a guided walking tour of the romantic old town. You can also book a guided wine and food tour , because the seafood is amazing.

view from St. George Cathedral in Piran Slovenia

Tartini Square is the heart of Piran’s old town. It’s a marble-paved, sherbet-toned, red roofed oval. Tartini Square is full of chic bars, alfresco cafes, and colorful houses. It’s a splendid place to snack and people watch.

As you stroll through the town, stop by Venetian House, the old marina and lighthouse, and hike up the bell tower of St. George Cathedral.

The latter is a miniaturized version of the Campanile of San Marco in Venice. The bells ring every 15 minutes. From the top, you can see four countries all at once — Italy, Croatia, Austria and Slovenia.

Here’s my complete guide to Piran .

the village of Portoroz on the Istrian Coast

2. Portoroz

The lovely seaside town of Portorož lies east of Piran. It’s a 30 minute walk on a scenic shore path that runs between the two towns.

Portoroz is a swishy beach town, specializing in spa treatments thanks to the area’s unique mud and salt water.

It’s the only sandy beach on the tiny Slovenian coast. Bars and cafes line the seaside, making this town a lovely holiday spot. You can swim, sail, sunbath, and relax.

beautiful lake in the Julian Alps

3. Julian Alps

To top off your Slovenia experience, head to the hills. If you love adventure sports, the Julian Alps are a great destination.

Start at the beautiful blue-green Lake Jasna. From Lake Jasna, head to the breathtaking Vrsic Pass — one of Europe’s most iconic roads.

With 50 white knuckle hairpin turns, it’s not for the faint of heart. You head back down via the Soca River Valley.

When hunger calls, stop in the little mountain town of Bovec in Soca Valley. This is where you can book a white water rafting, ziplining, or kayaking tour. Bovec makes a good base, if you want a longer stay in this area.

panorama of Split Croatia

Tips for Spending 10 Days In Croatia and Slovenia

1. currency.

The currency in Croatia is the kuna. The currency in Slovenia is euro.

2. When To Go

Peak tourist season runs from May through September, with the most traffic in early August. In July and August, Croatia at least will be hot and crowded. I don’t recommend going then unless you have a high tolerance for lines, selfie sticks, and crowds.

Slovenia will be somewhat cooler and less crowded.

plenta boats in Lake Bled Slovenia

Driving in Croatia and Slovenia is a breeze, with modern highways. In both countries, you drive on the right side of the road.

In Croatia, the highways have tolls, which you can pay with cash or a credit card. In Slovenia, you will need a vignette sticker that allows you to use the roads. Pick this up at the first gas station you find when entering Slovenia.

If you take the day trip to Kotor, be sure your rental agency knows that you’re traveling there.

READ : Tips For Renting a Car and Driving in Europe

4. Language

In Croatia, the language is Serbo-Croatian. In Slovenia, the language is Slovene. In both countries, you’ll find that English is widely spoken in the tourist areas and attractions.

Plitvice Lakes in Croatia

I hope you’ve enjoyed my 10 days itinerary for Croatia and Slovenia. You may enjoy these other road trip itineraries in Europe:

  • Bavaria Germany
  • Germany’s Romantic Road
  • Southern Spain
  • Basque Spain
  • Spain: Six 1 Week Itineraries
  • Southern France
  • Portugal and Spain
  • Italy’s Classic Cities
  • Italy: Milan to Rome
  • Italy: Venice to Milan

If you want to spend 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, pin it for later.

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9 thoughts on “The Best 10 Days In Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary”

Nicely presented, rather comprehensive trip plan. Thank you

Thank you Michael.You can always subtract things. I just like to give all the options.

This is the exact itinerary I was looking for to see both Croatia and Slovenia! I’ve been looking into car rentals and there is huge fees for doing a one way car rental from Croatia to Slovenia. Did you have to pay the large fee? Anyway around that?

Yes, I paid the huge fee. Otherwise, could you fly out of Zagreb? That’s only a couple hours from Ljubljana. Or are they telling you that you have to drop it off in the same city in Croatia?

The large fee seems to be changing countries. If I drop in Zagreb is only $85 compared to $500! Thanks for your help! I may reach out to you for some more advice. I really appreciate it 🙂

Your itinerary has been super useful and a big help for me planning a very similar trip. Just wanted to ask you a few questions regarding car hire. Did you find having a car in dubrovnik helpful? I was thinking perhaps its not necessary and wouldn’t get much use there. Also how did you do island hopping with a car? Did you bring the car to the island on the ferry or did you hire cars once on the island?

Hi Mae.Thank you and I hope you have an amazing trip. I did have a car in Dubrovnik, but only for a day. I used the car to day trip to Kotor Montenegro. Otherwise, there is no need for a car in Dubrovnik and the parking situation is horrific. It’s very difficult to find a place to park if you don’t have a dedicated space. And the authorities are quick to tow if you don’t park in the correct space. I took a tour of the Dalmatian islands from Split, so didn’t bring the car. The islands are all pretty small and well connected by ferries.

Thank you for the useful information. This is very helpful. Instead of renting a car, is there a day trip that we could book with a tour company, so we do not have to rent a car. My husband does not want to drive, so not sure how we would get to the destinations that you recommended for Croatia & Slovenia.

Thank you very much, Diana

If you are staying somewhere central (Dubrovnik, Split, or Ljubljana), there are plenty of day trips you can book through Get Your Guide or Viator.

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Last Updated on March 30, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

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Best 10 to 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary

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Eager to head out and explore the majestic beauty of Croatia and the often-overlooked Slovenia? Well, you’re in luck as we’ve planned the perfect 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia itinerary that will quickly become your next best friend.

Spending two weeks on a whimsical road trip from Dubrovnik in Croatia to Ljubljana in Slovenia, this jam-packed travel guide will take you through the best of the Balkans. Expect to journey through enticing cities, gorgeous medieval villages, a plethora of UNESCO-listed sites, and plenty of old-world charm.

Now, let’s get to the good stuff. Whether you’re a first-time explorer spending one day in Dubrovnik , or a seasoned traveler looking for new adventures, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime.

Magical 14 Days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary

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Croatia and Slovenia in 14 days | Planning your trip

Before diving in head first, here’s a quick breakdown of how you’ll be spending 14 days on your road trip from Croatia to Slovenia.

14 days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary (side trips to Montenegro and Bosnia – Herzegovina)

  • Day 1 – 2: Arrive in Dubrovnik and head to Montenegro
  • Day 3 – 4: Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 5: Take a day trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina
  • Day 6 – 7: Venture to and discover Split
  • Day 8 – 9: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park and surrounding areas
  • Day 10 – 12: Slovenia’s Alps and Lake Bled
  • Day 13 – 14: Explore Ljubljana

While this itinerary does not explicitly include the capital city of Croatia, Zagreb, you can choose to end your trip in the city. 

Considering that most travelers flock to the country’s coastlines, Zagreb doesn’t get the attention it deserves. Is Zagreb worth visiting ? Most definitely, check out some of the reasons you should go.

If you’re keen to explore the city, you can add it to this itinerary if you have some time to spare, and we’ve got you covered on where to stay when there. 

We have a 10 day itinerary for Croatia and Slovenia below that starts and ends in Zagreb.  

10 days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary 

  • Day 1 – 2 : Arrival in Zagreb Croatia, and explore
  • Day 3 : Plitvice Lakes National Park day trip
  • Day 4 – 5 : Ljubljana and Postjna Cave and Predjama Castle (or Lake Bled)
  • Day 6 – 7 : Travel to Split 
  • Day 8 – 10 : Dubrovnik (with a day trip to nearby Elafiti Islands) 

Read next: If you’re planning a trip dedicated to either Croatia or Slovenia, check out these curated destination itineraries:

  • Seven days in Slovenia itinerary
  • 10 days in Croatia itinerary

Getting to Croatia & traveling to Slovenia

One thing that makes this incredible trip undeniably memorable is the fact that it’s a glorious road trip along some of the most scenic routes in the entire region. But before you set off, you must pinpoint where exactly you’ll arrive for your 14-day journey.

You’ll arrive at Dubrovnik International Airport and, depending on your preferred final destination, either Ljubljana or Zagreb, depart from one of the two. 

Zagreb International Airport has good connectivity with flights from North America. The first itinerary sample ends in Ljubljana, and Ljubljana to Zagreb is less than a 2 hour drive away. 

After you’re arrival in Dubrovnik, you’ll need to get a rental car that will be your main method of transport for the upcoming few days.

Luckily there are plenty of local car rental options, or you can choose to use an international booking service like Discover Cars or Rentalcars.

Sidenote: When picking up your rental car, tell the company that you’re planning on crossing the border into Montenegro. They will provide you with the necessary documents you’ll need at the border crossing.

Also, ensure that you purchase a vignette sticker that allows you to use Slovenia’s highways. You can check out this site for more information on the vignette system used in Slovenia. 

Don’t worry. You can pick one up at the first gas station you find.

As for the highways in Croatia, you need to prepare to pay some tolls on your way. Thankfully toll prices in Croatia are reasonable, and you can pay using cash or credit card, making the whole process super convenient.

Best time to go to Croatia and Slovenia

When choosing which time of the year you want to set aside for your Croatia-Slovenia adventure, there are a few things you should keep in mind. 

While Slovenia isn’t very touristy (that’s a good thing), Croatia does have a high season, and the peak tourist season runs from May and ends in September.

The country sees the most traffic in July and August, so unless you’re up for lines, selfie sticks, and crowds we recommend skipping this time of year. Ideally, your trip should happen in the fall when temperatures for both countries aren’t crazy and tourist numbers in Croatia dip significantly.

Day 1 & 2 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Montenegro

Now that all of the nitty-gritty details are out of the way, let’s kick off your trip to the best of the Balkans . Although there are many (amazing) day trips to Montenegro, after arriving in Dubrovnik, pick up your car and set off to Kotor in Montenegro.

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This short drive will only take about one to two hours, and the border crossing is usually quiet in the morning. It does get somewhat busier in the late afternoon, thanks to all the day-trippers from Dubrovnik.   

Day 1 in Kotor

Arriving from Dubrovnik, your first night in Kotor is all about settling in and catching some well-deserved rest after your flight. With the town being relatively compact, you can still fit in a few things before hitting the pillow.

Explore the Old City

The origins of Kotor’s historic old city date back nearly 2,000 years, making some blissful wandering around quite a treat. 

Aerial view of buildings in Kotor old town

It’s filled with narrow streets and alleyways, a number of historic buildings, and ancient fortifications that have stood the test of time. 

It’s also spectacular to see lit up at night.

Roam the walls of Kotor

This medieval little gem’s city walls extend into the surrounding mountains, and you’ll thoroughly explore them tomorrow. 

For your first night, though, you can head up the ramparts and take a stroll capturing the nighttime feel and some Instagram-worthy snapshots.

Indulge in some local cuisine

It wouldn’t be a must-visit town without some must-try food, and you be rest assured Kotor’s many restaurants and cafes deliver exactly that. Regardless of which eatery you choose, grab a patio table to take in the oh-so-heavenly Mediterranean atmosphere.

Day 2 in Montenegro (Kotor and Budva)

Kick off day two in Kotor with breakfast and then head for the walls to tackle the endearing, challenging, and very rewarding hike to the Castle of San Giovani. 

After that, you’re heading for the nearby town of Budva.

Castle of San Giovani

The hike up to the Castle of San Giovani delivers a good workout and exceptional views. Remember to bring your water along as the 1350 steps to the summit of the eerie castle are quite vertical and exposed to the elements.

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Despite it being known as the “Huff and Puff Trail”, it’s an absolute must-do and will take about two hours to complete. 

An entrance fee is taken at the start of the trial and is 8€ (a little over $8) per person.

Afternoon in Budva

After all that walking and climbing, you deserve some downtime, and the perfect spot for this is the sleepy town of Budva. 

The old town of Budva, Montenegro

The drive will take you past some truly glorious scenery and epic views, all of which are worthy of your camera’s attention. 

Once you’re done in Budva, you can either head directly back to Dubrovnik or take the serpentine roads above Kotor. 

Opt for the latter to catch some final glimpses of the Bay of Kotor and one of the most well-preserved medieval towns along the Adriatic Sea.

Where to stay in Kotor

  • Hotel Splendido: A stylish and contemporary property that sits directly on the Bay of Kotor. Only a short drive from many of the listed UNESCO World Heritage Site attractions in town. Click to view photos and availability

Day 3 & 4 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Dubrovnik

Starting off day three, you’ll awake to the glorious city sounds and sights of Dubrovnik for what will be a spectacular three days . Trust us. Any city that has a Game of Thrones filming location is worthy of some quality time.

Day 3 in Dubrovnik 

Known for its impressive turquoise blue Adriatic Sea waters, mountain backdrop, and rich history, it’s time to dive in (or rather head out).

Dubrovnik city walls

Start the day bright and early with a walk around the edges of the ancient walled town via its captivating exterior medieval walls. 

As you make your way ascend Minceta Tower, the highest point on the walls.

It’ll cost you 26€ (roughly $27) and the entire walk should take about two hours to complete. To fast-track your way, you can opt for a pre-booked admission ticket , or book a guided walking tour to ensure you see all the best bits.

Dubrovnik Old Town

The historic old town of Dubrovnik is a kaleidoscope of stunning architecture, charming streets, and a lively city center. 

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While a leisurely stroll is an excellent option, to get yourself well-oriented, consider this two-hour guided tour.

Must-see stops in the vibrant old town include:

  • Stradun Street: The 13th-century main street of Dubrovnik is the perfect place to admire a dramatic setting created by the many gorgeous Venetian-style buildings.
  • Jesuit Staircase: Reminiscent of the Spanish Steps in Rome, the Jesuit Staircase is an ideal spot for some epic snapshots.
  • Rector’s Palace: A classical historic building, the Rector’s Palace is absolutely impressive and houses the city’s museum and concert hall.
  • Clock Tower: You’ll find this landmark in Luza Square. Dating back to 1444, at its summit are two bronze statues that ring the huge bell every day at noon.

Nothing caps off a day in Dubrovnik like heading up Mount Srd via a scenic cable car ride. Once at the top, admire the sensational sunset while you gaze out over the Adriatic coast, or head to one of the many bars and restaurants for a thirst-quenching sundown cocktail. 

And considering you’re heading into the evening, why not treat your tastebuds to some of the best local food?

Day 4 in Dubrovnik 

It’s about to get historic and unforgettable as your second day in Dubrovnik, you’re out to sample the best that the coastal town offers. 

Lovrijenac fortress

This imposing fortress that dates back to the 11th century is a must-visit while you’re in the city. Also known as Saint Lawrence Fortress, your entry ticket to the city walls grants you admission here as well.

Keep an eye out for the famous inscription above the door leading to the fort that reads “ Non Bene Pro Toto Libertas Venditur Auro ”, or “Freedom cannot be sold for all the gold of the world”.

Lokrum island

From the harbor, grab a seat on the ferry that heads for Lokrum Island, which fans of Game of Thrones (GoT) will instantly recognize as the City of Qarth. 

The island is a host of great attractions, including rock slab beaches, a Benedictine monastery, and the iron throne.

PS. If you’re a fan of the GoT novels and television series, there are several fantastic guided tours inspired by the fictional world, like this three-hour walking tour.

Banje Beach

Spend the rest of your afternoon back on the mainland by visiting any of the enticing beaches just outside of Dubrovnik. 

A standout option is the almost ethereal Banje Beach, close to the old town with epic views of the city and pristine waters for some swimming.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

  • Rixos Premium Dubrovnik: This luxurious 5-star retreat comes with all the bells and whistles far beyond its perch kissing the ocean. Check photos and availability
  • Flowers Dubrovnik Luxury Apartments : Stay comfortably at this lux apartment with sea views near the old town of Dubrovnik. You will find a kitchen, living area, laundry, and every modern amenity in every suite. Book your stay here

Day 5 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Bosnia and Herzegovina

A definite worthwhile detour on your trip between Dubrovnik and Split is the picture-perfect country of Bosnia and Herzegovina . 

Kravica waterfalls

Yes, the many ancient cities in the Balkans set expectations high, but the natural wonders you’ll find en route to Slovenia are equally as grand. 

Take, for example, the mesmerizing Kravica Falls. 

Your stop here should include some photo-ops, and a potential swim or boat ride across the river to the fall’s mouth.

An authentic Bosnian city, Mostar is awash with stunning architecture and rich history, so it’s only logical that you spend the rest of your day here. The most famous landmark in Mostar is the Old Bridge. 

Destroyed during the Bosnian War, it has since been rebuilt. Today it is the site of many a leap of faith, and you might spot some brave souls diving from its edges.

Tip: You can also book a full day guided tour to explore the falls and Mostar from Dubrovnik

Day 6 & 7 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Split

Your next stop along your Croatia itinerary is the second largest city in the country, Split. This city is dotted with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a historic old town, and a fabulous central market.

Day 6 in Split 

Use your first day in Split to get an intimate feel of the historic city that brims with out-of-this-world main attractions such as:

  • Split’s Old Town: An elegant and stony affair, the old town of Split dates back to Roman times and is filled with historical, cultural, and natural spectacles.
  • Diocletian’s Palace: Visiting Croatia and skipping out on this amazing site? Impossible. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a prime position overlooking the harbor and is one of the most prominent ancient Roman structures in the modern world.
  • Riva Promenade: After an eventful day in Split, end your day with a stroll along the waterfront promenade, locally known as the Riva Promenade. Providing stunning views of the Adriatic Sea and numerous tasty eateries, it’s the ideal end to your first day.

Where to stay in Split

  • Ellure Luxury Suites: Sitting within walking distance of the famous Diocletian Palace, this 4-star property is an excellent choice. Check photos and availability

Day 7 in Split 

After a majestic city tour through Split, it’s time to head out island hopping to some of the nearby islands. After all, what’s a journey to the Balkans without a boat trip?

Island hopping tour around Split

When we say you’ve got a lot of options for boat tours along the islands around Split, we mean it. 

From half-day to full-day options and even an extended day trip, here are some of the possibilities:

  • A stunning 5 islands boat tour
  • This 3-island boat tour with lunch
  • A Blue Cave tour with lunch
  • A catamaran tour to Hvar
  • This Hvar and Blue Cave tour

Regardless of which tour you choose, be sure to make time for a lengthy stop on the tiny island of Hvar. Known as the “sunniest island on the Adriatic Coast”, its charming town of the same name, Hvar Town, is a renowned party central.

Sidenote: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you can swap out the islands for a trip to one of the best national parks in Croatia — Krka National Park.

Day 8 & 9 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Once you’ve had a hearty breakfast in Split, hit the road on the morning of day eight towards Plitvice Lakes. Fair warning, though, the landscape that changes from a rocky coast to a densely forested meadow might just steal your heart.

As magical as the city walls of the Dalmatian Coast cities might be, there’s something extraordinary to roaming this national park. 

With numerous walking trails and hikes that flow between the lower and upper lakes, it’s a paradise playground that comes to life.

We highly recommend you divide your hiking activities between the afternoon of day eight and day nine. 

One of the best trails to tackle begins off entrance three of the park, which takes you directly from the lower lakes to the upper areas, with a charming picnic spot along the way.

Where to stay near Plitvice Lakes National Park

  • Plitvice Streaming: Close to Plitvice Lakes National Park, this wonderfully nature-centric property is a great place to spend the night while you explore the park. Check photos and availability

Day 10 – 12 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia: Slovenia’s Alps and Lake Bled

If you thought the majestic allure of Slovenia’s nature ended with its national parks, wait till you see the stunning mountainscape of the Julian Alps. 

Leaving Plitvice, you’ll head through Kobarid and Triglav National Park on your way. Your next stop is Lake Bled .

2 Days in Lake Bled

There’s no denying that Lake Bled is a must-visit destination in Slovenia, and with thousands of travelers flocking to Lake Bled every year, it’s no surprise. 

You can see and experience the best of the lake in just one day, but we suggest taking two days to immerse yourself in all it has to offer.

Bled Castle

You’ll spend the first of your two days here visiting the world-famous Bled Castle. A picturesque part of the entire region, this landmark gives the lake that wow factor making it an essential part of your trip. 

It might require some hiking to reach, but the mesmerizing views of the Julian Alps from the castle are out of this world. 

The castle also features several restaurants that serve one of the country’s most loved delicacies, the famous Bled cream cake. If you’re just here on a day trip take two hours and head on a boat ride to Bled Island.

Vintgar Gorge 

Another unique and mind-blowing natural attraction close to Lake Bled is the picturesque Vintgar Gorge. It’s absolutely breathtaking, and on your second day here, you can take your time on a leisurely stroll from end to end.

Where to stay in Lake Bled

  • Hotel Park: This gorgeous property that overlooks Lake Bled, and the Julian Alps offers modern luxury and standout amenities with a fantastic location. Check photos and availability

Day 13 & 14 of 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia road trip itinerary: Ljubljana

Time to close off your border crossing Balkans adventure with some quality time in the capital of Slovenia, the small and charming Ljubljana.

2 Days in Ljubljana

A vibrant city brimming with memorable attractions, there’s just something in the air of Ljubljana that will capture your imagination for years after your trip. 

Whether it be the welcoming locals or the number of awe-inspiring landmarks. Here’s how to fill your two days in Ljubljana .

Walking tour of Ljubljana

The fun thing about any walking tour of the city is that thanks to its small size, it’ll be a short walk (and they’re offered for free by the local government). Nevertheless, it will be stacked with unique sights such as:

  • Triple Bridge
  • Dragon Bridge
  • Ljubljana Old Town

Ljubljana Castle

After exploring the central market on either day one or two, take the funicular up Castle Hill to wander around the famous Ljubljana Castle. Providing epic views of the city, this medieval castle is a grand spot to take some memory-making selfies and snapshots. 

If you don’t want to stand in any lines, ensure you book your tickets in advance.

Metelkova Mesto

The perfect destination for an afternoon well spent, indulge in some local restaurant fare and head over to the artist village of Metelkova Mesto. 

An eccentric part of town that was once the home of settlers in the late 90s, it became a haven for artists looking for places to express themselves.

Where to stay in Ljubljana

  • Grand Plaza Hotel: In the city’s heart, you’ll find this beautiful 5-star property that offers modern and refined accommodations close to numerous attractions. Check photos and availability
  • Grand Hotel Union Eurostars : Housed in a historical Art Nouveau building, the Grand Hotel Union Eurostars offers beautiful suites (some with city views) and is pet friendly. It is centrally located and Ljubljana Old Town along with train and bus stations is within walkable distance (15 minutes). Book your stay here

10 days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary | Start and end in Zagreb Croatia

We will share an alternate Croatia Slovenia itinerary below, in which you will start and end in Zagreb. This itinerary is not very fast paced and can be done by car and/or public transportation and tours. 

It is a 10 day trip. 

10-day Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary | At a glance

  • Day 4 – 5 : Ljubljana and Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle (or Lake Bled)

Experience the best of Croatia and Slovenia in 10 days. This itinerary focuses on the two countries’ natural and cultural highlights. 

For this itinerary, plan to arrive in Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia. Spend the first two days in Zagreb (and three nights), check in to your accommodation, and pick up a car rental to kick start your 10 day Croatia and Slovenia itinerary. 

Day 1 – 2 : Zagreb Croatia

We have allotted 2 days in Zagreb so that you can settle in and ease into the trip. 

You can customize this itinerary by skipping one day and adding that to Zadar (Zadar is best explored from Split on a day trip. Driving time is 2 hours, and you will have enough time to see the city’s highlights such as the old town and the famous sea organ in Zadar).  

We personally loved Zagreb, it is compact, pretty, and also affordable. On your trip, check off the Ban Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, and the charming Dolac Farmers Market. 

For history lovers, a stop at the WW2 tunnels is a must. The city is also home to quirky museums such as Musuem of Torture and Musuem of Broken Relationships. 

If you wish to learn about the city’s history, you can also book a guided walking tour to explore both the upper and lower towns. 

Don’t forget to ride the world’s shortest funicular ride, and soak in the views from Grič Hill (Gradec is the upper town). Here is a detailed one-day itinerary for Zagreb

Day 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park

Take a day trip to Plitvice Lakes National Park from Zagreb. It will take 2 hours to get there by road. If you not renting a car, you can book this day tour.

Spend the day exploring turquoise lakes and waterfalls set amid lush evergreen forests at the national. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (along with many of the historic cities like Split, and Dubrovnik listed on this itinerary sample). 

Day 4 – 5: Ljubljana Slovenia

Travel to Ljubljana, the capital city of Slovenia, from Zagreb. Travel time is 1.50 hours by car, and 2.50 hours by public transportation. 

Spend one full day exploring the medieval old town with a view of the charming Ljubljana River. 

Day 6 – 7: Ljubljana to Split, and explore

Drive from Ljubljana to Split. Stay overnight in Split for 2 days. Walk the Riva promenade and explore this historic city’s vibrant streets, Diocletian Palace, and Marjan Hill for some remarkable views of the city.

Day 8 – 10: Dubrovnik

Drive towards Dubrovnik and make it your home for the next 2-3 nights. Check off the city’s many attractions such as walking along the City Walls, Pile Gate, visiting Rector’s Palace, and soaking up the sun at Sunset Beach.

Next day, take a day tour from Dubrovnik to the nearby Elafiti Islands . This excursion includes a natural island hopping cruise to the Elafiti Islands of Lopud, Šipan, and Koločep. 

You will get to explore beaches, historical churches, vineyards, and olive groves, and try Mediterranean delicacies. Pick up and drop off can be arranged!

On day 10, explore Dubrvovnik in the first half of the day, and then make connections to return back to Zagreb to fly out. 

Travel Tips for Croatia and slovenia itinerary 14 days 

We will round up some of our top tips for planning a trip to Croatia and Slovenia. From stunning beaches along Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast to historic towns in the Slovenian countryside, both of the countries offer a unique blend of nature and culture! 

Before planning a trip to Croatia and Slovenia, it’s important to understand the geography of the region . Both countries are part of the Balkan region.

Map of the Balkans and surrounding countries

Croatia sits on the Adriatic Sea between Italy and Bosnia & Herzegovina, while Slovenia is situated in Central Europe between Austria, Hungary, and Italy. 

Both countries are members of the European Union, and they use the Euro as their currency.

Visitors to Croatia and Slovenia will need to obtain a visa prior to entry unless they are from an EU member state or Schengen Area country , in which case they won’t need a visa but may still be required to present certain documents at the border. 

Citizens of United States and Canada can enter both countries and stay visa-free for upto 90 days. 

Best time to visit Croatia and Slovenia 

When it comes to deciding when to visit Croatia and Slovenia, it really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. 

Summers (June through early September) can be warm and sunny with temperatures reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius, while winters (December through March) can be quite cold and snowy. 

Spring (April through May) and autumn (October through November) can offer mild temperatures with fewer crowds. When visiting coastal cities in Croatia, consider visiting in the off-season so that you can find affordable accommodation and go sightseeing with ease. 

Accommodation in Croatia and Slovenia is generally good, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Prices tend to be more expensive during peak season, so it’s best to plan accordingly. You can find affordable stays for couples for around $75 – $85 USD per night in the off-season in major cities.

There are also plenty of options for those who prefer to camp or rent an apartment. Slovenia has amazing glamping opportunities. 

When it comes to getting around, car rentals are readily available in both countries. You can book compact cars for as low as $10 USD per day in Croatia. 

Alternatively, public transportation is reliable and affordable in Croatia and Slovenia – the majority of cities and towns connect via bus or train.

In Croatia, various bus routes are available, but journeys can be long and tiring. When traveling from Zagreb to Dubrovnik by bus, it will probably take you a full day. 

But, once you are in the city or town, you can easily walk to various attractions from your accommodation (as long as they are closer to the center). 

Croatia and Slovenia itinerary 7 days  Day 1 – 2 : Explore Dubrovnik Day 3 – 4 : Travel to Split and explore. You can also spend time in the Istrian Peninsula Day 5 : Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park driving to Zagreb Day 6 – 7 : Travel to Ljubljana, and Lake Bled From Ljubljana, you can return to Zagreb for your departure flight. 

Both Croatia and Slovenia’s destinations are equally beautiful in their own ways. Slovenia is well known for its natural beauty from lakes, waterfalls, and gorgeous countryside. The country has beaches and vineyards and its cities and towns are often less frequented by hordes of tourists. So you can expect fewer crowds and beautiful sites that you can enjoy with ease.  Croatia’s coastal towns are historic and pretty, and when you go beyond the bigger touristy centers you will be able to appreciate the beauty of this Balkan country.  Slovenia showcases fairytale towns and sites, without the price tag of popular European cities. Croatia has a good blend of culture, nature, and modern and coastal landscapes. 

For an international traveler, Zagreb is the perfect place to arrive, and then make connections to other Balkan nations – whether you are road tripping or traveling by public transportation.  Zagreb is also great for budget-conscious travelers as you can easily find cool accommodations, free attractions, and affordable eats in the city.  Both Zagreb and Ljubljana are not overly crowded (like Paris or London), and their city centres are very compact and easily accessible on foot. Ljubljana surely has a charming vibe with the river flowing through the city. 

The road distance between Croatia and Slovenia is 139 km (86 miles). When traveling from Zagreb to Ljubljana by car or train will be 2 hours, and it will cost from 10 to 15 euros, one way. 

Wrapping up your magical Croatia and Slovenia itinerary 2 weeks

And that intrepid traveler is how you discover the majestic paradise of Croatia and Slovenia. 

Offering something for every kind of taste, Croatia is a breathtakingly beautiful country laced with captivating waterfalls, beaches, historic sites, and charming hamlets. Running along the Dalmatian Coast, its landscapes include dramatic cliffs and pristine coastlines.

On the other hand, Slovenia has a genuine off-the-radar quality to it, making the tiny country a delightful discovery on any Balkans road trip. It might be small, but it packs a mighty punch from its imposing mountains to its glacial lakes and medieval towns.

Now all you need to do is decide when to go, pack your bags, and head out on your next dream road trip to the Balkans .

Other Balkan travel guides

  • Croatia in March
  • Day trips from Dubrovnik
  • 2 days in Belgrade itinerary
  • How to get from Ljubljana to Lake Bled

Pin: Croatia and Slovenia itinerary 10 days to weeks | Slovenia and Croatia Travel Guide

Croatia and Slovenia itinerary 2 weeks pin

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Aerial view of Lake Bled in autumn with Church of the Assumption of Maria and traditional pletna boats, Slovenia Tour

  • Europe & UK Travel tips

The Perfect 2 Week Slovenia and Croatia Itinerary

  • By Christian Baines
  • On June 3, 2019
  • Read Time 8 mins

Home / UK & Europe / Croatia / The Perfect 2 Week Slovenia an…

Picture-perfect Slovenia and the sparkling waters of Croatia have snuck into everyone’s Europe “must-sees” in recent years. The two make an ideal pairing, but once you’ve arrived in these beautiful countries, where do you go? This two-week (give or take) itinerary through Slovenia and Croatia ensures you catch all the highlights, while giving you enough flexibility to dig deeper on the stops that interest you.

Ljubljana – Explore Europe’s Cutest Capital (2-3 days)

Compact, walkable, friendly, and oddly fascinated with dragons, Slovenia’s capital is like a Europe visitor’s dream come true. It isn’t so much about showy, flashy attractions, but rather an atmosphere created by relaxed city squares and lovely bridges. What are the most beautiful places in or around Ljubljana ? You could centre your sightseeing around Ljubljanski Castle and the city’s jaw-dropping cathedral, but the whole town is a delight for visitors of almost any aesthetic. Some even draw comparisons to Prague , though you won’t face anywhere near the same tourist crowds here. Music lovers absolutely shouldn’t miss Ljubljana, as live music across all genres is a cornerstone of its culture. Finally? It’s pronounced loob-lee-ah-nah .

Aerial view of Ljubljana's castle at sunset in Slovenia

Lake Bled – Ring the Bell for Luck and Beautiful Views (1-2 days)

Feeling relaxed after Ljubljana? Lake Bled winds the pace back even further and replaces it with natural “wow” factor. Try not to spend the whole day admiring Lake Bled from above after your hike, which might have led you to picturesque Bled Castle. Do however take a good long look, enjoying views of the Julian Alps, before you boat across to Bled Island and ring the luck-bringing bell at the Church of the Assumption of Mary. If you’re staying a little longer, venture out to scenic Vintgar Gorge, or to nearby Lake Bohinj, Bled’s almost-as-photogenic traditional rival. No matter how you choose to spend the day outdoors, by day’s end, you’ll have earned a sweet piece of Cremeschnitte , Slovenia’s signature pastry.

Boats moored by the steps at Bled Island in Lake Bled, Slovenia

Zagreb – Start of a Great Croatia Itinerary (2-3 days)

Why is Zagreb worth the time to visit? Croatia’s capital offers the best insight into its contemporary culture and future. Some of its more unique museums and cultural attractions have also put Zagreb on the city hopper’s map, most famously–or infamously–the unconventional Museum of Broken Relationships. Explore the city streets to get a sense of what modern Croatia is all about, feast your eyes on a wealth of contemporary art, enjoy the hopping nightlife, and perhaps be thankful your past relationships are not on display in your city’s best known museum. If you prefer a more nostalgic trip down memory lane with an insight into the former Yugoslavia, pop into the Zagreb 80s Museum instead.

Aerial view of Zagreb city main square, Croatia

Day Trip: Plitvice Lakes National Park (from Zagreb, Zadar, or Split)

Plitvice Lakes should be an essential part of your Croatia travel plans. Even the most reluctant hiker soon finds themselves caught up in the beauty and vivid colours of Croatia’s best loved wilderness. A total of sixteen turquoise lakes—closed to swimming—flow into each other throughout the park, cascading through canyons and flowing under low-impact walkways, creating scenes that will convince you you’ve stepped foot on another world. Brace yourself for crowds of fellow nature lovers during the summer, since Plitvice receives 1.2 million visitors each year. But much like Dubrovnik , it’s a Croatia vacation highlight you can’t afford to miss.

Morning over waterfalls in Plitvice Lakes Park, Croatia

Zadar – The Coolest City on the Croatia Coast (1-2 days)

Zadar is one of the country’s hidden secrets with a history dating back to the 4th century BC. It also offers some seriously fun attractions including a giant, solar-powered public dancefloor, and the Sea Organ, a 70 metre waterfront walkway with pipes that play different chords and tones according to the changing tides. Even walking Zadar’s marble streets adds a uniquely elegant experience to your Croatia trip , one made a little surreal by the knowledge that the gorgeous stone beneath your feet is so ancient. But if there’s one big reason to visit Zadar, it’s to experience the Dalmatian Coast without the summer crowds that can swarm Split and Dubrovnik.

Sailing along the Dalmation coast of Zadar, Croatia

Split – Historic Treasure of the Croatian Coast (2-3 days plus island trips)

Split’s main draw for visitors is Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century complex that embodies the power and influences the Roman Empire once held here. Globetrotters particularly keen on history and archaeology should give Split an extra day or two, allowing themselves time to explore the ruined city of Salona, Klis Fortress, Solin, Trogir, St Duje’s Cathedral, and more. If you want to feel like a local for a day, try picigin , a non-competitive ball based game that predates soccer and has been part of Split life since 1908. The city also happens to be a fantastic base for exploring the Dalmatian Coast’s islands, including white pebble beach lined Brac, glamorous Hvar , historic Trogir , and Vis, home to an ancient walled town that’s considerably less busy than Dubrovnik. Perhaps Split’s prettiest day trip though is to the waterfalls of the River Krka, and the Sibernik Riviera.

Diocletian's Palace, Split, Croatia

Dubrovnik – Pearl of the Adriatic Coast (2-3 days plus day trips)

A star turn in TV’s Game of Thrones has been a mixed blessing to the once quiet UNESCO World Heritage listed city of Dubrovnik , but there are still plenty of reasons to visit, whether you’re a fan of the show or not. You can of course take a filming locations tour, but don’t skip Dubrovnik’s ultimate establishing shot, the spectacular view from the city’s cable car. Take a walk (without shame) along the famous Walls of Dubrovnik, enjoy the relative tranquility of the Trsteno Arboretum, explore Sponza Palace and Lovrijenac Fort, or spend some time unwinding on the local beaches. Give yourself at least a day and a half to explore the city proper, then add in any day trips to the nearby islands, particularly Mljet and Korcula, or the spectacular Bay of Kotor in neighbouring Montenegro.

Panorama of Dubrovnik with old town and Adriatic Sea, Croatia

Day Trip: Mostar (from Dubrovnik or Split)

Skip across the border into Hercegovina and it won’t take long to reach magical Mostar. There’s one photo pretty much every visitor wants, and that’s a perfectly framed snap of Stari Most, the 16th-century Ottoman bridge over the river Neretva that seems almost too perfect to be true. In one sense, it is. Its predecessor was destroyed during the Yugoslav wars , the current Stari Most was finished in 2004–somewhat ironic when you consider the name means “Old Bridge.” Still, the original look has been recreated to a fault, restoring Mostar’s most spectacular centrepiece. Of course, there are other reasons to visit Mostar. Pop into the Koski Mehmed Pasa Mosque, swim beneath the natural perfection that is Kravice Waterfalls or visit the Dervish monastery, Blagag Tekke.

Panoramic view of Stari Most Bridge, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Day Trip: Bay of Kotor (from Dubrovnik)

Add another country to your travel map! The Bay of Kotor is Montenegro ’s most popular attraction, located less than two hours from Dubrovnik. The bay and its surrounding towns bring together a rich heritage dating all the way back to Mesolithic Era , over 10,000 years ago. Indulge your inner anthropologist looking for prehistoric cave paintings in Lipci, walk in the footsteps of ancient Romans in Risan, and of course, feel their legacy on the 2300+ year-old streets of Kotor itself. Periods of Byzantine and Venetian control followed, and all have left their mark on Old Town Kotor. It’s the beauty of the bay itself however that secures Montenegro’s place in your memory, and your heart.

Kotor Bay and Old Town from Lovcen Mountain, Montenegro

How do I Spend One Week in Croatia (or Slovenia)?

If you have just one week for your Croatia trip , combine the Dubrovnik and Split itineraries above for an easy and practical quick visit packed with varied highlights. If you’d like to explore the islands in detail, denied to most day trippers, connect the two cities with a short Croatia cruise. For a completely different take on Slovenia and Croatia travel, Goway’s Flavours of Northern Croatia and Slovenia trip diverts to the Istrian Peninsula for spectacular scenery, with visits to Lake Bled and the Plitvice Lakes. Along the way, this itinerary lets you sample a wide variety of local specialties bursting with flavour.

Suggested Itinerary: 7-Day Small Group Touring: Flavours of Northern Croatia & Slovenia

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Christian Baines

Christian Baines

Globetrotting Contributing Editor - Christian’s first globetrotting adventure saw him get lost exploring the streets of Saigon. Following his nose to Asia’s best coffee, two lifelong addictions were born. A freelance writer and novelist, Christian’s travels have since taken him around his native Australia, Asia, Europe, and much of North America. His favourite trips have been through Japan, Spain, and Brazil, though with a love of off-beat, artsy cities, he’ll seize any opportunity to return to Paris, New York, or Berlin.

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Croatia & Slovenia Itinerary in 10 days

Croatia & Slovenia Itinerary in 10 days

Croatia and Slovenia can easily be visited on one itinerary , because the distances aren’t too big and you don’t need any special paperwork if you’re driving a rental car .

Small and often overlooked, Slovenia is one of Europe’s most charming and delightful off-the-radar destinations.

This 10-day itinerary takes you on a journey from Dubrovnik to Ljubljana. You can modify this itinerary to extend your trip and do a full week in Slovenia and 10 days in Croatia (which I highly recommend, but not everyone has time for it).

This popular road trip in Croatia and Slovenia includes cities, must-see medieval villages, and UNESCO-listed landmarks, and doesn’t require changing your base every night.

For country counters, there are options to add two additional countries to this itinerary: Montenegro & Bosnia . Or, you can skip those day trips and either spend more time in places you’re visiting or include Istria – I created another itinerary here for that .

On this Croatia-Slovenia road trip, you’ll have only three bases: Dubrovnik (3 nights), Split (3 nights), and Ljubljana (4 nights).

Croatia & Slovenia Itinerary

  • Day 1-2: Explore Dubrovnik
  • Day 3 : Day Trip to Kotor Montenegro
  • Day 4 : Drive To Split & explore Split
  • Day 5 : Split: Island Hopping Tour
  • Day 6 : Day Trip To Mostar
  • Day 7 : Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park driving to Ljubljana
  • Day 8 : Explore Ljubljana
  • Day 9 : Day Trip to Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge
  • Day 10 : Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

When to Go?

Slovenia isn’t very touristy, but visiting Croatia in the peak tourist season makes things complicated.

The peak tourist season runs from May through September, with the most traffic in late July and I absolutely don’t recommend going in July and August.

Fall is a great time to visit with little crowds. If you’re up for cooler temperatures, wintertime can be excellent to see the snowy peaks of Slovenia and even possibly do some skiing if you wish.

travel croatia and slovenia

Renting a Car in Croatia and Slovenia

Renting a car and driving it to Slovenia from Croatia isn’t an issue and is a recommended way to travel. However, if you don’t want to rent a car , public transportation also works in Croatia and parts of Slovenia. 

Driving around is easy with wide highways and many signs. You can pay your tolls in cash or card and get a vignette for Slovenia at a gas station. A vignette is required to be purchased before entering the Slovenian motorway network .

Unless you’re planning on doing organized tours to Bosnia and Montenegro (which I highly recommend) you need to make sure that your car rental agent knows that you’re leaving the country for a day or two and give you special paperwork.

Day 1-2: Dubrovnik

Fly into Dubrovnik, because it’s the easiest and most affordable way to get to Croatia , as lots of budget airlines fly to Dubrovnik.

The city of Dubrovnik attracts tourists all year round. This is where the Game of Thrones (along with other movies and series) was filmed . Though crowded, it’s truly breathtaking and a must-visit in Croatia.

You can start your morning with a walk along the city’s famous walls for some sublime views or get on a cable car to the top of  Mount Srdj .

In the afternoon you can take a short ferry ride to the nearby Lokrum where GoT fans can pose with the Iron Throne. Alternatively, you can kayak around and swim in beautiful waters .

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Where to stay in Dubrovnik

Prijeko Palace : Set just 50 m from its well-known Stradun Promenade in the heart of Old Town, this brightly-lit palace hotel features 16th-century architecture and gorgeous rooms. Buza beach is 300 m away.

The Pucic Palace : This 18th-century baroque palace is just steps away from Old Town’s Stradun Promenade providing perfect views of Gundulić Square . The stone-walled historic 5-star hotel will make your stay luxurious. Guests get complimentary access to the exclusive Banje Beach .

Boutique Hotel Stari Grad : Set in a historic building with modern amenities, this Old Town hotel offers panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea . A perfect stay in the heart of Dubrovnik with many good beaches nearby.

Day 3: Day Trip to Kotor Montenegro

A day trip to Kotor from Dubrovnik is a great way to explore the stunning Bay of Kotor in Montenegro, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I do recommend taking an organized tour because it’s simply easier if you’re on a tight schedule and can rest while being driven.

Once you arrive in Kotor, you can explore the town’s charming Old Town , which is filled with narrow streets, historic buildings, and ancient fortifications.

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You can also climb up to the top of the city walls for stunning views of the bay (get those Insta shots!) and surrounding mountains. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes where you can sample local cuisine and enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere.

It’s a fun way to see an additional small country on your trip!

Head back to Dubrovnik for the night.

Day 4: Drive to Mostar, then Split

It’s a bit over 3 hours by bus or local private car to Dubrovnik from Split directly, and about 4.5 hours via the fast boat.

If you’re self-driving then take a detour to see Mostar on the way to Split from Dubrovnik (it will extend the journey by an hour). Otherwise, take a bus between Dubrovnik and Split and hop on an organized day trip to Mostar.

travel croatia and slovenia

A day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik is a popular excursion, as it allows visitors to experience the stunning architecture and fascinating history of this beautiful Bosnian city. Here are the steps you can follow to arrange a day trip to Mostar from Dubrovnik.

You can do it with a rental car if you’re planning on self-driving the rest of the trip. If using public transportation then you might want to opt for an organized tour which basically brings you places if you wish and don’t like organized tours – no need to follow a guide with a speaker and umbrella – I felt like I was on my own and just had an arranged shuttle.

travel croatia and slovenia

Remember that you will be crossing the border from Croatia to Bosnia and Herzegovina, so make sure to bring your passport.

See the Old Bridge – the most famous landmark in Mostar. It was destroyed during the Bosnian War but has since been rebuilt. During the summer you might be able to see some jumpers taking a leap of faith and diving from it.

Mostar is known for its delicious cuisine , so make sure to try some local dishes like cevapi.

Arrive in Split for the night.

Where to Stay in Split

Radisson Blu Resort & Spa : Close to Znjan Beach, this roomy spacious hotel has everything you need for an unforgettable stay. Set about 2.5 km from Split Old Town, rooms at the seaside resort feature balconies with views of Brač and Šolta.

Hotel Villa Diana : This pocket-friendly family hotel is a short walk from the Croatian Maritime Museum, Split City Museum, Diocletian’s Palace, and other popular attractions.

Hotel Park Split : Built back in 1921, this popular hotel is right next to Bacvice Beach . Elegant interiors, modern amenities, and the best service make your stay at this first-class hotel truly enjoyable.

Day 5: Explore Split

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia and offers visitors a mix of history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. Split’s Old Town alone can keep you entertained for hours.  

Take a look at UNESCO World Heritage Site Diocletian Palace built in the 4th century. Stroll through the palace and see the ruins of the ancient Roman city.

travel croatia and slovenia

You can get in touch with nature by hiking the “lungs of Split” aka Marjan Hill and have a picnic there.

If you find Split too busy or have enough of ancient cities after Dubrovnik, you might opt for a day tour to Krka National Park . Unlike in Plitvice, you can swim in the waterfalls but I must warn you – it gets busy.

If you only have time for one place – Krka vs Plitvice, then I’ll always say go to Plitvice .

Day 5: Split: Island Hopping Tour

Island hopping, or even visiting just one island, is a must in Croatia. Split is surrounded by a few stunning islands where locals and tourists often spend an entire week, so don’t miss out!

Spend the day island hopping by either a speedboat on a full-day tour from Split or just going to Hvar by a public ferry.

If you opt for a tour you get to experience a miracle of nature at the Blue Cave and go for a swim in the Adriatic Sea.

Hvar Town is a beautiful place to wander around on Hvar island. Visit the Franciscan Monastery, then walk through lavender fields and taste locally made olive oil in neighboring Jelsa. Then, continue to see Stari Grad – the oldest town in Croatia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And let’s not forget the beaches!

Day 7: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park driving to Ljubljana

Wake up early and get ready to drive to Plitvice Lakes National Park. It will be a long day, but it’s honestly not too bad. I didn’t rush when I did it but you can also consider potentially spending an extra day somewhere closer to Plitvice as well.

travel croatia and slovenia

You want to opt for being at Plitvice at 8 or 9 am during summer months as it gets super crowded. Outside of the main tourist season, you can really arrive any time.

Plitvice is a must as it’s one of the most beautiful and famous places to visit in Croatia. Surround yourself with amazing lake views and waterfalls as you walk along the picturesque walking trail, or enjoy a serene boat ride .

travel croatia and slovenia

After your visit, continue the drive to Ljubljana in Slovenia.

If you have more time I highly recommend taking a few days and exploring the Istria region of Croatia ( check out my longer itinerary ). While it’s not on any lists of top places to see in Croatia I think it’s one of the best regions of the country.

travel croatia and slovenia

Where to Stay in Ljubljana

Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel : This 5-star boutique hotel features rooms and suites with outstanding decor, with lovely views of the river and town. Cobblers’ Bridge Ljubljana is a stone’s throw away, while Ljubljana Castle, Congress Square, and other attractions are within walking distance.

Grand Plaza Hotel & Congress Center : This 5-star hotel offers spacious soundproof rooms for a good night’s rest. Located in the heart of the city , Ljubljana Train Station, Ljubljana Castle and other attractions are easily accessible.

The Hotel Ljubljana : Centrally located, this hotel has everything you need , from a multi-cuisine restaurant to easy access to local attractions.

Day 8: Explore Ljubljana

Ljubljana is the capital city of Slovenia and it’s a vibrant city with many things to do and friendly locals.

travel croatia and slovenia

Start exploring by taking a leisurely stroll along the Ljubljanica River. The river is the heart of the city , and walking along its banks is a great way to see the city’s landmarks and architecture . I love to sit at one of the outdoor cafes and watch the people and boats passing by. You can also take a boat tour!

Visit the Ljubljana Castle . It is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city and offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. The spiral staircase of the tower was a lot of fun to climb.

travel croatia and slovenia

The Central Market is one of the most vibrant places in the city and offers a wide variety of fresh and local produce, meats, cheeses, and local items. I loved sampling delicious fruits and vegetables and pick up some souvenirs to take home. You can also take a tour to sample traditional Slovenian dishes and lcoal wine.

Day 9: Day Trip to Lake Bled & Vintgar Gorge

In an ideal world, you want to spend the night in Bled , because it’s gorgeous and there are many amazing glamping spots to stay at. But, alas if you don’t have time I recommend taking day trips to Bled from Ljubljana.

travel croatia and slovenia

In one day you can visit a castle on a clifftop, swim in the lake, eat the famous Bled Cream Cake ( I recommend getting it at the castle restaurant or just by the heart ), and row out to Bled Island without even leaving the town.

Return for the night back in Ljubljana.

Day 10: Day Trip to Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is one of the most unique and picturesque castles in Europe, and it’s famous for its dramatic setting in the mouth of a cave.

travel croatia and slovenia

The castle was built in the 13th century and it was originally a small fortress built by the Patriarch of Aquileia to defend against invaders, but it was later expanded and fortified over the centuries.

The audio guide provided a ton of interesting facts and it was perfectly timed to make the tour last about an hour. You’ll learn a ton about secret passages and the castle’s interesting history.

Nearby you’ll also find Postojna Cave, known for its stunning stalactites and stalagmites , as well as its underground rivers and rock formations.

Visitors can take a guided tour through the cave system on a train, which runs through a large portion of the caves and allows visitors to see some of the most impressive sights. The tour also includes a visit to the Concert Hall, which is a large cavern used for concerts and other events.

At the end of the day or the next morning, you can fly out of Ljubljana.

travel croatia and slovenia

That’s the ideal itinerary for visiting Croatia and Slovenia together. You can always add or subtract a day or two in a city or town you love, especially if you’re renting a car . Comment if you have any questions!

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Monday 5th of June 2023

Your itinerary has been super useful and a big help for me planning a very similar trip. Just wanted to ask you a few questions regarding car hire. Did you find having a car in dubrovnik helpful? I was thinking perhaps its not necessary and wouldn't get much use there. Also how did you do island hopping with a car? Did you bring the car to the island on the ferry or did you hire cars once on the island?

Anna Karsten

Friday 23rd of June 2023

You can indeed bring a car on a ferry. A car would be useful for Hvar, but if you can also do a boat tour island hopping and then you don't need a car.

  • Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary: 9 Days of Epic Hikes, Food, and Wine

by Nichole | Last updated Aug 18, 2023 | Croatia , Europe Itinerary , Slovenia

During our travels, I have found myself gravitating toward certain destinations such as New Zealand, Japan, South Africa, and Chile. What is the commonality between these destinations? Amazing nature experiences + an amazing foodie scene . Croatia and Slovenia can now be added to that list. In this ultimate Croatia & Slovenia itinerary, I will share how we independently explored these two beautiful countries. This 9-day trip throughout Croatia and Slovenia is filled with epic day hikes, sprinkled with a few historic sights and museums, and of course, our local foodie experiences. I hope this itinerary is useful as you plan out your next adventure to these gorgeous countries.

* Some of the links in this post contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. All recommendations are from first-hand experience that I feel will deliver value to you! Thank you for your continued support.

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DAY 1: TRAVEL TO ZAGREB

Day 2: day trip to plitvice lakes, day 3: explore zagreb, day 4: train to slovenia wine country, day 5: vipava valley + goriska brda, day 6: hike #1 + hike #2 + hisa franko, day 7: lake bohinj + lake bled, day 8: vintgar gorge + ljubljana, day 9: 1/2 day ljubljana + fly home, map view of croatia + slovenia itinerary, who will like this croatia + slovenia itinerary, best time to visit croatia + slovenia, number of nights in each place, accomodations, car rental & how to get around, tour operators, lunch/dinner reservations, winery reservations, what i would have changed, related content.

With a layover in London, we flew from the United States into Zagreb at 11:15 pm. By the time we got to the hotel, unpacked, and got settled in, it was 1 am. 

Uber is available in Zagreb! We took an Uber to our hotel, which was fast, easy, and cheap.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner: Today was a travel day, so all meals were consumed at the airport or on the plane.

6:45 am: Bus ride from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes National Park. Yes, it’s early, but you can sleep on the bus! It will be worth it.

9 am – 2 pm: With 16 terraced lakes, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls, immerse yourself in one of the most gorgeous parks in the world. Check out my planning guide on Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Lunch: Pack some protein bars to eat at the park.

Overnight: Hotel Capital 

12:15 pm: After sleeping in, check out Dolac Market for the cornbread. Then stop by Burek to taste the famous street food, burek.

1 pm: Grab a coffee at one of the world’s best coffee shops, Eliscaffe 

1:45 pm: Walk through the Gric tunnel and visit St. Mark’s Church and Museum of Broken Relationships. 

3:15 pm: Walk along Strossmayer Promenade, check out the Croatian Inventor Murals, and find the viewpoint for the Zagreb Cathedral.

5:15 pm: Split a strukli at La Struk. Read top things to do in Zagreb  and pre-dinner drinks at La Bodega Wine Bar.

Breakfast/Lunch: Burek and La Struk. Dinner: 9 pm at Stari Fijaker.

7 am: Very comfortable train ride from Zagreb to Ljubljana. Arrive at 9:16 am. Pick up the car rental from Atet, great local company!

11:30 am: Check out Predjama Castle, the world’s largest cave castle. Continue to Gostilna Theodosius for a delicious lunch at 12:30 pm.

3:30 pm: Explore the unique wine varietals of Vipava Valley at Guerila Wines. Find out more by reading our Slovenia wine country getaway .

Breakfast: Protein bars to carry you over for the train ride.

Lunch: Gostilna Theodosius.

Dinner: Just snacks for dinner due to the late heavy lunch.

Overnight: Garni Hotel Dvor in Goriska Brda, one of Slovenia’s premier wine regions. Adorable B&B run by 2 sisters.

All-day wine tour with Jani from Winestronaut to visit Vipava Valley and Goriska Brda, two of Slovenia’s top wine regions!

10 am: Pick up time

11 am: Burja Estate (our favorite experience!)

1:30 pm: Tilia Estate, House of Pinots

4:30 pm: Edi Simcic

Breakfast: Wonderful breakfast at your B&B (included in the rate).

Dinner: 8 pm reservation at Belica. They serve some delicious local dishes. Check out my article on top Slovenian foods .

Overnight: Garni Hotel Dvor 

10:45 am: Hike #1! After breakfast at the B&B, drive to the trailhead of the hike known as Drugmbernca. It starts and ends at Dobrovo Castle and takes you through vineyards and the rolling countryside. The hike is 5.9 miles and takes 3 hours.

2 pm: Drive the scenic drive to Kobarid and check in to the Airbnb.

4 pm: Hike #2! This gorgeous hike takes you to one of the most unique waterfalls, Slap Kozjak. Check out my Kozjak hiking guide .

Breakfast: At the B&B, Garni Hotel Dvor.

Dinner: 8:30 pm reservation at one of the world’s best restaurants, Hisa Franko (this is THE reason we booked a trip to Slovenia).

Overnight: Booked at Apartment Zonir but switched to Apartment Honey Bee

10 am: Make the 2-hour drive to Lake Bohinj

12:30 pm: Walk around the crystal clear water of Lake Bohinj.

2:30 pm: Check in to the hotel and explore the fairytale setting of Lake Bled . Must try the Bled cream cake.

5 pm: Hike to the Ojstrica Viewpoint to get an absolutely stunning panoramic view of Lake Bled. Worth the strenuous 20-minute hike.

Breakfast/lunch: Strud’l near Lake Bohinj.

Dinner: 8:30 pm reservation at Finefood Penzion Berc (restaurant at your hotel, one of the best restaurants in Lake Bled).

8 am: After a wonderful breakfast at the hotel, drive to Vintgar Gorge and arrive around 9 am. Crisscross the wooden walkways across the gorge and take in the stunning emerald green waters. 

10:30 am: Drop off the rental car at Atet. Taxi to the hotel in Ljubljana.

12:30 pm-8 pm: Hotel check in. Check out Open Kitchen, which is a gourmet food market. Discover the famous bridges, the Mlekomat, and House of Illusions. See my article on Ljubljana for the top sights.

Breakfast: At Penzion Berc.

Lunch & Dinner: Open Kitchen. Only held on Fridays. Plan accordingly.

12:00 pm: Sleep in and then stroll around the Central Market. Pick up some prized pumpkin seed oil as a souvenir. Delicious with sourdough bread. 

1 pm: Stroll around the beautiful streets of Cankarjevo Nabrezje and Gornji trg.

1:30 pm: Take a taxi to the airport for the 5 pm flight back home.

Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner: At airport lounges and plane ride.

  • Casual wine drinkers and serious wine connoisseurs
  • Outdoor enthusiasts

The best time to do this 9 day Croatia & Slovenia itinerary will depend on what activities you want to do.

Overall though, to enjoy fewer crowds plus still have decent weather, the shoulder seasons are best.

I would advise May/early June  and mid-September/October .

If you do not mind the crowds and want to enjoy the warmer weather and numerous festivals throughout Croatia and Slovenia, then the summer months of June, July, and August are ideal.

Just realize though places like Plitvice Lakes National Park and Lake Bled will be extremely crowded.

  • 3 nights in Zagreb, Croatia
  • 2 nights in Goriska Brda, Slovenia
  • 1 night in Kobarid, Slovenia
  • 1 night in Lake Bled, Slovenia
  • 1 night in Ljubljana, Slovenia 
  • Zagreb, Croatia
  • Goriska Brda, Slovenia
  • Kobarid, Slovenia. ** We stayed at Apartment Honey Bee, which wasn’t anything special. Next time we’re staying at Nebesa Chalets. 
  • Lake Bled, Slovenia
  • Ljubljana, Slovenia

American Airlines

  • To make this Croatia & Slovenia itinerary work, we booked 2 long haul segments with American Airlines: United States to London Heathrow Airport and vice versa. Then we took regional airlines to Zagreb and from Ljubljana.

Croatia Airlines

  • 8 pm flight from London Heathrow Airport. Arrived in Zagreb at 11:15 pm

LOT-Polish Airlines

  • 5:05 pm flight from Ljubljana to London Heathrow Airport with a short layover in Warsaw, Poland. Arrived in London at 9:45 pm. Spent the night in London and flew out early evening the next day.
  • Zagreb, Croatia: We used Uber to get to and from the airport. We used the bus to get to Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Slovenia: We rented a car through the local company, Atet . They were very professional and efficient.
  • Winestronaut (Goriska Brda and Vipava Valley Wine Tour)
  • Noel (Zagreb)
  • Stari Fijaker (Zagreb)
  • Gostilna Theodosius (Vipava Valley, Slovenia)
  • Hisa Franko (Kobarid, Slovenia)
  • Finefood Penzion Berc (Lake Bled, Slovenia)
  • Guerila Wines
  • Burja Estate
  • Tilia Estate
  • We went in early May when the temperatures were still a little cool. If I were to go again, I would go towards the end of May when it is a little warmer.
  • This Croatia & Slovenia itinerary was packed. If we had more time, I would spend 1 extra night in Goriska Brda and use it to relax by your hotel’s pool for a day.
  • If we had more time, I would also add 1 more night to Lake Bled, so we could have done another day hike in Triglav National Park.
  • My husband’s grandparents came over from Croatia, and his grandma used to make wonderful sarma (stuffed cabbage). I was hoping to find a restaurant in Zagreb that served some local Croatian dishes. Although the reviews are great, our dining experience at Stari Fijaker fell well below the mark in both the food and service. Maybe we were there on an off-night, but I would advise booking another restaurant.
  • Consider booking another accommodation for Kobarid, especially if you add an extra night. Apartment Honey Bee was adequate and clean, but I would recommend trying to stay on the property of Hisa Franko (book well in advance) or Nebesa Chalets.

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Questions about our Croatia + Slovenia itinerary? 

Let me know in the comments below!

Penelope

Nichole, this has been so helpful in planning! Would you recommend bringing proper hiking boots or will sneakers suffice?

Nichole

Thanks for reaching out. I would recommend trail runners, which falls in between hiking boots and sneakers. Some of the trails were muddy and wet because of recent rainfall, so you’ll want something with a little grip. My trail runners worked out great for these hikes. Happy to answer any other questions. Enjoy your trip!

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Two-week Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Two-week Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Just to let you know… This post (probably) contains affiliate links, including Amazon Associates links, and I may receive a small commission when you click on the links. This is at no extra cost to you and allows me to keep running this website. How cool is that?! I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own.

Welcome dear traveler! Welcome to this Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary! I’m here to assist in planning one of your best holidays ever. 

How can you do that, you may wonder? Well, if you are a fan of road trips or want to try it as a new travel adventure, you came to the right place!

In this article, I’m sharing with you a two-week Slovenia-Croatia road trip itinerary (with three mysterious bonus destinations). I’m going to share a lot of amazing stuff, like the best things to see and do, great accommodation advice, tips and tricks and the best deals. All you need to do is to copy this itinerary or adjust it to your liking and travel preferences.

Before we dig into the details of this Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary, I feel like it’s important to share some details.

This two-week Slovenia-Croatia road trip started for us from Romania (Bucharest to be more precise). We had transited Serbia and stayed a night in Belgrade. I didn’t include this place in the itinerary, because it wasn’t part of our main travel plan, but we needed a break because the trip was too long. 

Our official itinerary started in Zagreb, so it will be easy for you to use this Slovenia-Croatia itinerary because even if you are flying to Croatia or Slovenia, you can rent a car and pick up this travel plan. I would like to add that even if the trip was mainly focused on Slovenia and Croatia, we also visited Mostar (in Bosnia and Herzegovina), Perast and Kotor (in Montenegro). Remember I told you I included bonus destinations! These two cities were very close to our initial map and we said, why not?!

Also, keep in mind that you can adjust this itinerary as you see fit. You can use only a part of it, or you can use it only as an inspiration for your travel bucket list. 

After being on this trip, I have to say that this plan was pretty cool and perfect for us. It’s not my intention to brag or anything, but I put a lot of work into planning, researching and fitting every location in our itinerary. My husband (fiancé at that time) and I went on this adventure with another couple and we planned everything based on our common travel goals. We wanted to make the most of this trip but also have some relaxing days.

Prepare to enjoy wonderful mountain cities, and dazzling ports, walk through history and discover secluded spots that will charm you with serene and peaceful sunset moments and many more. 

Now, let’s get started! 

slow travel destinations

Zagreb - 2 days

We started our Slovenia-Croatia itinerary in Croatia’s beautiful capital, Zagreb. One of the things that I loved about this was the city’s overall atmosphere and the energy that pulsed through every street. It wasn’t crowded or very loud, but from the first moment after we left our accommodation I got the instant feeling that I was on holiday. 

I got that eagerness to explore every small street and absorb the city’s spirit. I believe you know exactly what I’m talking about, you know that some places have a specific vibe. Zagreb was one of those places. It was clean and had an aesthetic view. You can walk to most of the landmarks and along the way you are going to find a lot of great spots perfect for artistic photos. 

We stayed only 2 days in Zagreb and I feel like we needed a day more to visit every place that was on our list.

If you want to find out more about Zagreb and all the things you need to visit, please check out this article .

Points of interest:

  • Zagreb Cathedral
  • St Mark’s Church Zagreb
  • The streets of Old Town
  • Dolac Market
  • Jelacic Statue and Jelacic Square 
  • Tkalciceva Street
  • Museum of Broken Relationships
  • Mirogoj Cemetery Samobor
  • Zagreb Botanical Garden
  • Journey Through the City on Zagreb Tram

Accommodation: Apartment Fifty Shades of Greay

This place was perfect for our needs, it was suited for two couples. If you are looking for a bigger place, you can choose it even if you are only two people. It had one bedroom and one living room with a very comfortable couch that could be made into a bed. The apartment was very clean, but it was a little far from the center.

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Bled - Bohinj - 3 days

After Zagreb, we got straight to exploring two beautiful places in Slovenia, Bled and Bohinj. These two made me fall in love with Slovenia, and now I need to plan another holiday in this green and stunning country. Next time I will plan a one-week itinerary only in Slovenia because there are so many unbelievable places to adventure on.

Before our visit, I heard about Bled and even saw pictures of the famous Bled Lake, but the beauty of this place surpassed my expectations. The magnificent lake views, the glorious mountains surrounding the lake and the unique scenic overlooks paint a perfect picture of Bled as a place with so much potential and natural beauty. We spent the whole day exploring, taking photos and hiking to a famous viewpoint. You can find all about it and even more in this article I wrote about all the amazing things you can do and see while visiting Bled, you can check it out here .

Our next destination was Bohinj and here was also our accommodation for the next two nights. We chose Bohinj, because here we found a place with the most impressive view and you know me, I’m all about perfect morning views. There is something about beautiful morning views and a cute mug of coffee. 

Anyway, let’s get back on track. If I was impressed by Bled, Bohinj blew me away with all the luxurious mountain landscapes, the peaceful countryside atmosphere and the gorgeous lake views. This is one of those places where you can imagine yourself getting old and spending your evenings walking around Bohinj Lake while enjoying a beautiful sunset. For my husband and I, Bohinj was love at first sight, and I think this was one of our favorite locations from the whole Slovenia-Croatia itinerary. If I got you excited, please check out this awesome travel guide I wrote about Bohinj.

But first I want to make sure you understand what I’m talking about so here are a few things you can experience in Bohinj:

  • Mountains views, gorgeous waterfalls and hiking trails through charming gorges
  • Natural and uniquely shaped rocks (look up for the one that has the shape of an elephant)
  • Delicious homemade pies that you will enjoy in the most epic mountain scenery
  • Secluded lake spots where you can plan great photo shoot sessions 

Distances: 

  • Zagreb-Bled: 2 h 10 min (194 km)
  • Bled-Bohinj: 24 min (22 km)

Bled – Points of interest:

  • Boat renting 
  • Ojstrica viewpoint
  • Church of the Mother of God
  • Vintgar Gorge

Bohinj – Points of interest:

  • Bohinj Lake
  • Mostnica Gorge
  • Voje Valley
  • Mostnica Waterfall
  • Koca na Vojah mountain hut (located in Voje Valley, order the homemade pies)
  • Savica Waterfall

Accommodation: Apartment House Jager

We booked rooms with mountain views and I highly recommend you do the same, no matter what accommodation you choose in Bohinj. Waking up to an epic mountain view is part of the whole charm that Bohinj is emanating. Apartment House Jager was lovely, the rooms were big enough and the host was very nice and helpful. He gave us a map, explained how we could get around and also told us about Mostnica Gorge and the homemade pies that await us at the end of the trail. This was of the best accommodations from our Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary!

Bled Lake view from pontoon

Rovinj -Pula - 2 days

After we left the picturesque land of Slovenia we returned to Croatia towards a different kind of landscape, one marked by palm trees, colorful buildings, narrow streets and port sunset views. I found Rovinj ideal for couples because, in my opinion, it had that romantic cute scenery. There are several things you can do in this city, but by far my favorite one was roaming the streets in search of the best photo spots.

We spent one day and a half in Rovinj and half a day in Pula. We didn’t plan more time here, but it was enough to have an overall image of this historical city. The impressive Colosseum will take you back in time and remind you of a time when gladiators fought bloody battles to entertain the general public. Interesting thing is that now in the Colosseum film and music festivals are hosted. 

We spent half a day roaming the streets, taking a coffee break and enjoying the scenery. In my opinion, Rovinj was my favorite of these two, but I know friends that liked Pula more. Depending on your travel preferences you can choose to spend more time in Pula.  Keep in mind that the distance between Rovinj and Pula is only 45 minutes (very convenient because it doesn’t matter where you pick your accommodation, you can easily dedicate enough time to both cities).

  • Bohinj-Rovinj: 3h (258 km)
  • Rovinj-Pula: 42 min (40 km)

Rovinj – Points of interest:

  • Church of St. Euphemia (experience one of the best sunsets)
  • Balota Beach
  • Ul. Grisia street
  • Book a boat
  • Clock Tower

Accommodation: La Vela

This was a very nice and clean place with stylish décor. One important thing to keep in mind is the parking. In Rovinj, you can’t enter the residential part of the city and thus you can’t park your car at the accommodation. If you book La Vela or another place, check with your host the available parking places which are closest to the accommodation. We didn’t know this at that time and searching for a free place to park our car was very stressful. And also, we had to carry our very heavy luggage for quite a big distance.

Croatia coastal cities

Plitvice Park - 3 days

It’s time to leave the port cities (for now) and go straight to waterfall bliss. Plitvice Park is one of Croatia’s most famous destinations. Of course, it was included in your Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary. 

If you are a waterfall chaser and lover like me, Plitvice Lakes will be heaven for you, this I can assure you. The park has over 90 waterfalls and approx 16 cascading lakes. The trail will take you through luxurious vegetation and splendid viewpoints. You will feel like you are in a waterfall fantasy land. 

An important thing I want to add is that Plitvice Lakes is a huge park with several paths and depending on your itinerary and the time you plan to spend exploring it, you can choose a shorter or a longer version of the trail. To make the best choice in regards to what trail to pick, I recommend you do your research, especially on their official page . To help you out here I wrote a detailed Plitvice Park travel guide where I share important tips and tricks and also my personal experience while visiting the park.

One thing that I want to point out is that depending on the season you are traveling, the weather can be quite unpredictable, thus it’s important to check the weather conditions before you plan your trip. We got to visit it on a rainy and foggy day and even if we enjoyed it, the experience wasn’t as expected. That being said, Plitvice Lakes is a must-see in Croatia and you can’t miss out on all those gorgeous and spectacular waterfalls.

  • Pula-Plitvice Lakes: 3h (257 km)

Accommodation: Apartments Green Park Plitvice

We loved this place so much. It is located in a quiet place with a lot of greenery surrounding it. It’s a perfect choice if you want to have a relaxing experience. The accommodation also included breakfast where we had great coffee and delicious eggs prepared by our host. He also suggested restaurants where we could eat dinner and even gave us discount cards to use there.

Our Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary was also focusing on finding amazing bookings (not only on the best places to visit).

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Smiljan - Zadar - Skradin - Krka National Park - 2 days

You can expect a lot of waterfalls in this Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary.

We wanted to see all the waterfalls that Croatia had to offer. After we left Apartments Green, we planned to go to Skradin where our next place was booked, because it was only a few minutes away from another waterfall wonderland, Krka National Park.

Before we got to Skradin, we planned to visit Smiljan and Zadar.

My husband is a big fan of Nikola Tesla and taught me a lot of things I now know about this impressive man. So, it was very clear to me that he wanted to include the Nikola Tesla Memorial Center on our itinerary. This place is located in Smiljan, Croatia and because it’s secluded I don’t think a lot of people know about it.  If you want to learn more about this place and find out who Nikola Tesla was and what you can do at this center, check out this article, “ Best things to do in Croatia ”. That being said, if you are a fan of science and physics, you need to add Nikola Memorial Center to your itinerary in Croatia.

After spending a few hours learning cool stuff about Nikola Tesla, we drove to the next destination on our itinerary. Maybe Zadar isn’t the most popular city in Croatia, but it’s such a charming and may I say, seductive city, that I encourage you to add it to your travel itinerary. The Sea Organ is the most amazing thing you will see in Zadar. It’s a unique place that will enchant you with the hauntingly beautiful sounds that the Sea Organ is making due to the sea waves. In my opinion, Zadar is one of Croatia’s unknown gems. 

After a well-deserved coffee break in Zadar, we traveled to Skradin where we spent our evening exploring the streets, witnessing a beautiful sunset, making some swans friends and eating dinner. 

The next day, after breakfast we went to Krka National Park. In comparison to Plitvice Park, Krka National Park is a much MUCH smaller version of the previous one. To picture it better, you will need an entire day in Plitvice Park in order to visit every corner, while in Krka Park in two hours your tour is done. The fun part of Krka is that at the end of the trail there is a place where you can have a picnic. They also have a dedicated food area. And the thing that makes the experience different from Plitvice is that in Krka you can swim close to one of the waterfalls. 

Price-wise, the tickets were as expensive as Plitvice Park. If you are on a budget, or you don’t want to visit two similar parks, I recommend you pick Plitvice. 

If you want to learn more useful things about Krka Park, please check out this travel guide I wrote, here .

  • Plitvice Lakes-Smiljan: 55 min (51 km)
  • Smiljan-Zadar: 1h 20 min (104 km)
  • Zadar – Skradin: 53 min (76 km)
  • Skradin- Krka National Park: 2 min (1km)

Accommodation: Ruza

The house was very cute and located in a kinda secluded place (I loved the outside design of the place). The view from the villa was very nice and the rooms were big and accommodating. The lady that was taking care of the place didn’t know a lot of English but was very kind to us. 

When we arrived, she welcomed us with free drinks and the next morning she cooked delicious home-baked pies (our accommodation included breakfast). We started our visiting day with good coffee, a nice view and a great meal.

best things to do in Croatia

Split - 3 days

I hope you are still with me, in this Slovenia-Croatia travel itineray.

I think that Split was one of those places in Croatia which amazed me the most. I didn’t expect this city to be so full of culture, history and life in general. Initially, we added it to our Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary because it was close to one of our top destinations (Dubrovnik) and because we wanted to make the best of this road trip, which meant including as many places as possible.

Split was a delight for us. Picture a city with palm trees, colorful buildings, historical landmarks, great food and an overall festive atmosphere. At every turn, we encountered a spot or corner that made us pause and admire every detail. I wrote an entire article about all the things that you can’t miss in Split. You can go and check it out here .

If you are still asking if you should add Split on your travel bucket list, the answer is definitely, yes!

  • Skradin – Split: 1h (91 km)
  • Diocletian’s Palace
  • The Old City
  • Cathedral of St Domnius
  • Gregory of Nin Statue
  • Riva Promenade
  • Republic Square
  • Marjan Hill (with killer views)
  • Kliss Fortress
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Visit Hvar, Brac or Vis Islands

Accommodation: Apartment Sanella

This place was perfect for our needs. It was an apartment with two bedrooms, one living room and one generous kitchen. We prepared our own breakfast and the big table in the living room was perfect for that.

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Mostar-Dubrovnik - 4 days

Leaving the splendid Split, we got excited to visit one of our top destinations from the whole trip. Dubrovnik got on our travel radar from the moment we found out that important scenes from our favorite TV show were filmed there. GOT was a phenomenon, but even if you didn’t see or heard of the series you should add Dubrovnik to your travel bucket list. In the beginning our Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary was focused mainly on Dubrovnik.

On our way to Dubrovnik, we decided to take a small detour and visit a famous and beautiful city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mostar. This is a surprising city, with a lot of things to do and to explore, but we had only a couple of hours, so we got straight to our favorite place, the bazaar. I’m planning to write an article about this fantastic market, where you can buy cool souvenirs, take colorful photos, eat delicious food and drink the best coffee. 

After walking the picturesque bazaar and visiting the famous Old Bridge, we enjoyed a delicious meal and headed for Dubrovnik, our final destination in Croatia.

I fell in love with Dubrovnik’s Old Town, with all those narrow streets, rich in history and architectural details. You don’t even need the plan to explore Dubrovnik, just put on some comfortable shoes and a very cute outfit, because there are a lot of instagrammable places you should take advantage of. I wrote two articles about Dubrovnik, one with all the places you can visit, and you can check it out here . The other is about traveling on a budget because I know that due to the popularity that Game of Thrones brought, the prices increased considerably. So, if you want to visit Dubrovnik and still be on a budget, check out this cool article, here . 

  • Split – Mostar: 2h 11 mi (167 km)
  • Mostar-Dubrovnik: 2h 24 min (138 km)

Dubrovnik – Points of interest:

  • Fort Lovrijenac
  • Rector’s Palace
  • Fort of St John
  • Loggia Square
  • Stradun Street
  • Delicious Waffles
  • Lokrum Island

Accommodation: Apartment Bella

We simply loved this accommodation. I wrote all about it in the article “ How to visit Dubrovnik on a budget ”. This place had it all, a welcoming and charming host, cute animals, big rooms with a spacious kitchen, drinks and fruits free of charge and free parking (which is very important in Dubrovnik). Another good thing about Apartment Bella is that it was so close to a bus station that can take you straight to Old Town. I think this was one of our favorite accommodations in Croatia. If you are thinking about planning a Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary, I hope you check this place out!

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

Perast - Kotor - 3 days

It’s time to leave Croatia and go to two amazing destinations in Montenegro. We included these locations on our Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary for two reasons: we love nature and Perast and Kotor were on our way back home. No matter your starting point for this road trip, you can also include Perast and Kotor on your travel bucket list. 

In Perast we spend only a couple of hours. We roamed the city’s beautiful streets and enjoyed a coffee near the shore. Afterwards, we headed to Kotor where we planned to stay for the following days. 

For me and my husband, Kotor was love at first sight. This charming and well-preserved medieval city was in our top 3 places from the whole trip. The landscape consists of the beautiful Kotor Bay and an old city surrounded by scenic slopes. We spend our days roaming on foot in the old city, going to every shop and drinking beer. The energy of this place was addictive, people were roaming every small street (without being too crowded) and you could hear birds singing. At every corner, you would encounter a glorious old building or church. Everything in Kotor made me feel all the warm fuzzy feelings that you could think of during a trip. We even found a shop that sold handmade items from local rock. We love shopping and we usually buy something from every place we visit (something handmade or owned by a local business). This place was perfect! My favorite thing was this cute and impressive handmade mug. I mean, just look at it!

I’m going to write a travel guide with everything you need to know about Kotor and I’m excited to get to it, so keep a look out for that.

Kotor and Perast made me put Montenegro much higher on my travel bucket list. 

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

  • Dubrovnik – Perast: 1h 44 min (80 km)
  • Perast-Kotor: 16 min (12 km)

Kotor – Points of interest:

  • Hike Kotor’s Fortress
  • Walk the Old City Walls
  • Cathedral of Saint Tryphnon
  • Old churches
  • Shop for handmade souvenirs
  • Kotor Beach

Perast – Points of interest:

  • St Nicholas Church
  • Climb the Bell Tower for the best view of the village
  • Perast Museum
  • Lady of the Rosary Church
  • Enjoy lunch with the seashore view

Accommodation: Apartment Milana i Luka

Apartment Milana i Luka was very nice and modest. We enjoyed the view and the fact that it was secluded and close to nature. The host was welcoming and helped us with tips. The only downside (if you can call it that) is that it was located at approx. 4 km from the Old Town. This is not a long distance if you plan to go by car, but we opted to walk. The road and the views were beautiful and we forgot all about our screaming, tired legs 😅.

Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

I hope you find this Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary (with three bonus destinations, Mostar, Perast and Kotor) useful. This custom trip was perfect because we got to visit a lot of amazing locations, and we did it all: explored mountain villages, hiked incredible trails, saw dozens of wonderful waterfalls and visited lots of coastal and medieval cities.  If you choose to follow the same itinerary you aren’t going to get bored, but I feel like I need to tell you this warning: you are going to walk a lot! Prepare your hiking shoes and forget about sleeping until 10 am!

Happy traveling! 😄

A Globe Well Travelled

10 days in Croatia + Slovenia road trip itinerary

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A friend recently asked me to list the top 5 countries that I’ve visited.

A tough question, as each country has a set of unique qualities that make it great (or bad!). I pondered the question for a while, and realised that one country had moved up in the list after my recent winter Eurotrip . Rob and I spent 2 months travelling the European continent, with a road trip through Croatia and Slovenia wrapping up our last few weeks.

Slovenia had impressed me the first time I visited in 2014, and now it was way up there in my top 5. I’d seen more of the country this time around, from the glorious landscapes of the Julian Alps to the seaside vibes of the Adriatic. Getting a wider view of what Slovenia has to offer visitors proved that the country is even more amazing than I remembered.

Of course, our time in Croatia was lovely, too. It’s just that Croatia is already popular as a tourist destination, and it’s somewhat of a pain to visit when you’re country-hopping across Europe as it’s not in the Schengen Area and doesn’t use Euros as a currency (tsch!). Still, it is a really nice country and I did enjoy visiting it.

This itinerary starts in Croatia’s capital and ends in Slovenia’s capital, with a handful of cute coastal towns, majestic mountain scenery, and medieval castles in between. It’s everything you could possibly want in a 10-day road trip! Here are the full details of my Croatia + Slovenia road trip itinerary.

Croatia + Slovenia road trip itinerary map

Itinerary map guide:

1 – Zagreb (Croatia) 2 – Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia) 3 – Rovinj (Croatia) 4 – Piran (Slovenia) 5 – Predjama Castle + Postojna (Slovenia) 6 – Bled (Slovenia) 7 – Triglav National Park (Slovenia) 8 – Ljubljana (Slovenia)

Panoramic viewpoint with view over old town Zagreb in Croatia

It’s best to fly into Zagreb to start this itinerary as it has the biggest airport of all the included destinations. We actually did Zagreb last on our road trip (after Ljubljana), but I think the rest of you will find it easier to begin here!

Zagreb is an eastern European city with a picturesque old town and some edgy street art. I found the food to be amazing, and the prices to be cheap! Check out my self-guided walking tour of Zagreb for more info on this city.

We stayed in the Palace Hotel , which smelled slightly of cigarette smoke (unfortunately all establishments in Croatia are like this!) but aside from that, it was a nice place in a good location with a great breakfast.

Winter views of waterfalls at Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is Croatia’s top tourist destination. It’s easy to see why everyone wants to go there – it’s one of those places that is so damn beautiful that it doesn’t even look real!

Plitvice Lakes can get insanely busy in the summer, so if you’ll be visiting in peak season, be sure to plan your trip ahead of time to ensure you get tickets (yep, there are a limited number!) and avoid the crowds. Luckily, I visited in the off-season and basically had the entire park to myself. Check out my winter guide to Plitvice Lakes which has a ton of useful info on visiting this spectacular destination.

We stayed overnight in Fenomen Plitvice , which was right next to the Lower Lakes within the national park. The rooms were tastefully decorated, and the resort had a spa/sauna and a really fabulous on-site restaurant. I highly recommend staying here!

The old town of Rovinj on Croatia's Adriatic coast

The drive from Plitvice Lakes to Rovinj was really spectacular – the highways cut across the Istrian Peninsula through some amazing rock formations, and we could see the sunlight sparkling on the waters of the Adriatic as we made our way around the Kvarner Gulf.

Rovinj is located on the seaside, and in my opinion it feels much like one of the Mediterranean towns that you might find on the coast of Italy. The old town is super cute with narrow cobblestone streets and pastel-tinted buildings.

After a few hours of walking around taking pictures, we settled at an al fresco bar to watch the sunset while drinking a few glasses of local Istrian wine. It was a superb way to finish up the day.

We stayed in Hotel Delfin , which was a simple but modern boutique hotel on the waterfront. The location was perfect for our trip as there was street parking around the corner for our rental car, and it was an easy walk to the town centre.

Views of Piran and the Adriatic Sea, Slovenia

From Rovinj, it’s an easy drive up to the border of Slovenia. Not many people know that Slovenia actually has a 47km (29 mi) slice of coastline on the Adriatic Sea. There are a few small towns that line the coast, with Piran being the most popular for tourists.

We found Piran to be quite an interesting little town. It felt a lot like Italy to me, and I learned later that it was in the hands of the Venetians for over 500 years! It has a historic church tower which you can climb for amazing views, a classic market plaza, and a fortified wall on a hill where you get lovely vista of the town silhouetted against the sea.

We stayed overnight at Hotel Oleander , which was located just outside of town. To be honest I wasn’t all that impressed with it, but at least it had free parking!

Predjama Castle in Slovenia

Predjama Castle

Predjama Castle is only an hour’s drive northeast of Piran, and it was one of my highlights from Slovenia! I’ve seen plenty of castles before so my expectations weren’t all that high, but Predjama is totally unique. This medieval palace is actually built into the side of a cliff, and it has all sorts of interesting quirks that make it different from every other castle I’ve visited.

The audio guide provided a ton of interesting facts and it was perfectly timed to make the tour last about an hour. Inside, we learned about the secret escape through the caves in the rocks behind the castle, and how the residents used the cave system to collect fresh running water. Truly fascinating!

Postojna Caves are another attraction that are just down the road from the castle. We decided not to go in and continued the drive onwards to our next stop (staying in an Airbnb along the way), but you may want to put aside some time for the caves and stay in Postojna overnight instead.

Bled Island and Bled Castle at Lake Bled in Slovenia

Bled is one of those adorable holiday villages that I could keep going back to over and over again. Located in a truly picturesque spot in the Alps, Bled has a ton of interesting activities. You can visit a castle on a clifftop, swim in the lake, eat famous Bled Cream Cake, and row out to Bled Island without even leaving the town.

Most visitors will spend just one day in Bled, but we stayed in an Airbnb vacation home in Bled for an entire week to spend time skiing the Alps. Obviously this would make the road trip longer than my suggested 10-days, but it’s worth spending a few extra days enjoying this part of Slovenia!

A tree beside Lake Bohinj in Triglav National Park, Slovenia

Triglav National Park

Triglav National Park has some of the most stunning natural scenery I’ve seen. Named after Slovenia’s highest mountain which reaches 2864 metres, this protected area in the Alps is the only national park in the country.

Bohinj is a great place to base your exploration of Triglav. There’s a gorgeous lake, a cute stone bridge, a historic church, a statue of a mythical mountain goat, and some walking trails all within easy reach of the town centre. 10 minutes drive away is the base of Vogel ski resort, where you can take a gondola up the mountain (even if you’re visiting outside of the winter season) for fab views over Lake Bohinj and the surrounding mountains.

We didn’t stay overnight in Triglav National Park as Bled is only a 30 minute drive away, but there are a few hotels in the town if you’d like to stay in the area.

The Dragon Bridge in Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana is one of my favourite cities! As you can’t take cars into the centre of Ljubljana, it might be best to drop off your rental before exploring the city. We did this before checking in to our accommodation at Barbo Palace and had no troubles getting around the city by foot.

The pedestrian zone in the old town gives the place a really relaxed vibe. Ljubljana is all about outdoor dining, drinking Slovenian wine, and wandering slowly along the river and its many bridges. The castle is unfortunately not as awesome as Predjama, but walking up the hill does provide some neat views of the city. I’ll be putting together a city guide for Ljubljana soon!

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Best 10 Day Itinerary For Croatia And Slovenia

Introduction.

Welcome to the breathtaking countries of Croatia and Slovenia! If you’re looking for an unforgettable 10-day adventure, this itinerary is perfect for you. These two countries offer a rich blend of history, culture, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. Get ready to explore charming cities, pristine national parks, ancient ruins, and picturesque coastal towns. From the vibrant capital city of Zagreb to the iconic beauty of Dubrovnik, and from the natural wonders of Plitvice Lakes National Park to the enchanting Lake Bled, this itinerary will take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

During this 10-day itinerary, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant architecture, indulge in local delicacies, soak up the sun on stunning beaches, and marvel at the natural wonders of both countries. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing and enjoying the beauty of the Adriatic coastline, Croatia and Slovenia have something for everyone.

It’s important to note that this itinerary is just a suggestion and can be customized to suit your preferences and available time. You can always extend your stay in any of the locations or add more destinations based on your interests. So, let’s dive in and start exploring Croatia and Slovenia!

Day 1: Arrival in Zagreb

Welcome to the beautiful city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Upon arrival at Zagreb International Airport, make your way to your accommodation to check-in and freshen up.

Zagreb is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and a charming blend of medieval and modern architecture. Start your exploration by strolling through the historic Upper Town, known as Gornji Grad. Here, you’ll find the iconic St. Mark’s Church with its colorful tiled roof, the medieval Stone Gate, the Lotrščak Tower, and the Croatian Parliament.

After exploring the Upper Town, make your way to the lively Dolac Market. This open-air market is a hub of activity and the perfect place to immerse yourself in the local culture. Browse through the stalls offering fresh fruits, vegetables, local delicacies, and handmade crafts.

For art lovers, a visit to the Museum of Broken Relationships is highly recommended. This unique museum showcases personal objects and stories from failed relationships, creating a thought-provoking and emotional experience.

In the evening, head to Tkalciceva Street, a lively pedestrian street filled with bars, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a traditional Croatian dinner and soak up the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to try some local specialties like cevapi, sarma, or black risotto.

After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Zrinjevac Park, one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Admire the stunning architecture and relaxing ambiance as you unwind and prepare for the adventures to come.

Finally, return to your accommodation for a good night’s rest, as tomorrow marks the start of an incredible journey through Croatia and Slovenia.

Day 2: Exploring Zagreb

Today is dedicated to fully exploring the charming city of Zagreb. Start your day by visiting the impressive Zagreb Cathedral, a landmark of the city and one of the tallest cathedrals in the world. Step inside to admire the stunning stained glass windows and intricate architectural details.

Next, make your way to the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, which showcases the unique and colorful works of Croatian naïve artists. The collection features a range of styles, subjects, and techniques, providing a fascinating glimpse into the local art scene.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the iconic Ban Jelačić Square. This lively and bustling square is the heart of Zagreb and the perfect place for people-watching. Take a moment to sit on one of the benches and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Museum of the City of Zagreb is a must. This museum offers a comprehensive overview of the city’s history, from its early days as a medieval fortress to its growth into a cultural and economic center.

No visit to Zagreb is complete without experiencing its vibrant food scene. Head to the Tkalciceva Street, lined with numerous restaurants and cafes, to indulge in delicious local cuisine. Don’t forget to try some traditional strukli, a popular Croatian pastry filled with cheese or other savory fillings.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Maksimir Park. This expansive park offers lush green spaces, tranquil lakes, and walking trails, providing a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

As the evening approaches, make your way to Strossmayer Promenade, located in the Upper Town. This charming promenade offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great spot to watch the sunset. Grab a drink from one of the nearby bars and enjoy the panoramic beauty of Zagreb.

After a full day of exploration, return to your accommodation and recharge for the next leg of your journey through Croatia and Slovenia.

Day 3: Traveling to Plitvice Lakes National Park

Get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure as you travel to Plitvice Lakes National Park, one of Croatia’s most spectacular natural wonders. After breakfast, check out from your accommodation in Zagreb and make your way to the park.

The journey from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes takes around two and a half hours by car. Alternatively, you can also opt for a guided tour or public transportation if available. Whichever mode of transportation you choose, the scenic drive will take you through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and lush green forests.

Upon arrival at the national park, prepare to be amazed by its beauty. Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and renowned for its cascading waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and lush vegetation. The park consists of 16 interconnected terraced lakes, each more stunning than the last.

Begin your exploration by following the well-marked trails that wind through the park. Take in the breathtaking views of the turquoise lakes, surrounded by vibrant greenery. Marvel at the numerous waterfalls that cascade down the cliffs, creating a symphony of sights and sounds.

For an even closer experience of the park’s natural beauty, take a boat ride across the largest lake, Kozjak. Feel the mist of the waterfalls on your skin and immerse yourself in the peacefulness of the surroundings.

As you explore, keep an eye out for the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to various plant species, as well as a wide array of bird and animal species, including bears, deer, and rare butterflies.

After a full day of walking and exploring, head to your accommodation near the national park. Relax and take in the tranquility of the surroundings. Indulge in a hearty Croatian dinner and reflect on the magnificent natural beauty you experienced at Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Prepare for a restful night’s sleep, as tomorrow you will continue your journey to another stunning destination in Croatia.

Day 4: Discovering Zadar

Get ready to explore the coastal gem of Zadar, a city rich in history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage. After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation near Plitvice Lakes National Park, make your way to Zadar, approximately a two-hour drive away.

Upon arrival in Zadar, start your day by visiting the famous Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. These unique installations are located on the city’s waterfront and offer an unforgettable sensory experience. The Sea Organ is a series of underwater pipes that create mesmerizing harmonies as the waves hit them, while the Greeting to the Sun is a stunning light installation that produces a mesmerizing display at sunset.

Continue your exploration by taking a leisurely stroll through Zadar’s historic center. Discover the well-preserved Roman Forum, which once served as the center of social and political life. Admire the ancient ruins and imagine the bustling market that once existed here.

Next, visit the St. Donatus Church, a magnificent 9th-century Byzantine-style church that stands as one of Zadar’s most prominent landmarks. Explore its interior and soak in the historical significance of this architectural masterpiece.

For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Museum of Ancient Glass is a must. The museum houses an impressive collection of glass artifacts dating back to Roman times. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the ancient glassmaking techniques.

No visit to Zadar is complete without indulging in its mouthwatering cuisine. Head to a local restaurant and savor delicious seafood dishes, such as octopus salad or grilled fish. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a glass of locally produced white wine.

In the late afternoon, take a stroll along Zadar’s beautiful promenade, lined with palm trees and offering stunning views of the Adriatic Sea. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze and take in the magical ambiance of this coastal city.

As the evening approaches, venture to the Zadar Cathedral. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the city and the surrounding islands. Watch as the sun sets on the horizon, casting a golden glow over the cityscape.

After a day of exploration, check into your accommodation in Zadar and unwind. Reflect on the beauty and history you discovered throughout the day, as tomorrow you will continue your journey to the captivating city of Split.

Day 5: Visiting Split

Get ready to immerse yourself in history as you explore the magnificent city of Split. After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation in Zadar, it’s time to make your way to Split, approximately a two-hour drive along the stunning Adriatic coast.

Upon arriving in Split, the highlight of the city awaits you – the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Diocletian’s Palace. This ancient palace, built by the Roman emperor Diocletian in the 4th century, is a sprawling complex that now forms the heart of the city. Explore the winding streets, visit the subterranean chambers, and marvel at the well-preserved architecture that seamlessly blends Roman, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.

As you wander through the palace, make sure to visit the Peristyle, the central square of the palace where you can soak in the historical ambiance. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the bell tower of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas.

After exploring the palace, take a leisurely stroll along the Riva, the city’s vibrant waterfront promenade. Enjoy the views of the azure waters, the bustling atmosphere, and perhaps stop for a drink or ice cream at one of the many cafes along the way.

For history buffs, a visit to the Archaeological Museum of Split is highly recommended. This museum showcases artifacts from the Roman and early Christian periods, giving insights into the city’s ancient past.

In the afternoon, find a local konoba, a traditional Dalmatian tavern, and treat yourself to a delicious meal. Indulge in local specialties such as pašticada, a slow-cooked beef dish, or fresh seafood caught from the Adriatic Sea.

In the evening, explore the narrow backstreets of Split’s old town. Discover hidden gems, artisan shops, and quaint cafes tucked away from the main thoroughfare. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as locals and tourists alike fill the streets.

As the day comes to an end, head to the Marjan Hill, a verdant park located on a hill above Split. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and watch as the sun sets over the Adriatic Sea, casting a beautiful palette of colors across the sky.

After a full day of exploration, return to your accommodation in Split and rest up for tomorrow’s adventure on Hvar Island.

Day 6: Exploring Hvar Island

Today, get ready to experience the beauty and charm of Hvar Island. After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation in Split, hop on a ferry or catamaran and make your way to this picturesque island. The journey takes around one to two hours, depending on the mode of transportation.

Hvar Island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Start your day by exploring the island’s main town, also named Hvar. This vibrant and bustling town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, charming narrow streets, and lively squares.

Begin by visiting the iconic Hvar Fortress, also known as the Fortica Spanjola. Climb to the top of the fortress for panoramic views of the town and surrounding islands. Marvel at the picturesque red-roofed houses and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

Next, wander through the town’s streets and discover its rich history. Visit the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a stunning example of Renaissance architecture. Explore the Franciscan Monastery and its museum, where you can learn about the island’s cultural heritage.

After exploring the town, head to one of the nearby beaches for some relaxation and sun-soaked fun. Hvar Island is famous for its beautiful beaches, such as Dubovica Beach and Palmižana Beach. Take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or simply unwind on the sandy shores.

For lunch, indulge in delicious fresh seafood or traditional Dalmatian dishes at one of the seaside restaurants. Pair your meal with a glass of local wine produced from the island’s vineyards.

In the afternoon, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider taking a boat tour to the nearby Pakleni Islands. These stunning islands offer secluded beaches and pristine nature, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun.

In the evening, head back to Hvar town and experience the island’s vibrant nightlife. Explore the lively bars, clubs, and beachside lounges, where you can dance the night away or simply enjoy a relaxing drink while listening to live music.

After a day of exploring and enjoying the island’s beauty, find your accommodation on Hvar Island and rest up for another exciting day tomorrow.

Day 7: Discovering Dubrovnik

Welcome to the stunning city of Dubrovnik, known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation on Hvar Island, make your way to Dubrovnik, either by ferry or by driving along the beautiful coastal roads. The journey takes approximately three to four hours.

Dubrovnik is renowned for its well-preserved medieval city walls, terracotta rooftops, and stunning coastal views. Begin your exploration by walking along the iconic City Walls, which offer breathtaking views of the old town and the sparkling Adriatic Sea. As you wander along the walls, you’ll encounter ancient fortifications, towers, and charming hidden spots that provide incredible photo opportunities.

After your walk on the walls, make your way to the Stradun, the main street of the old town. This pedestrianized street is lined with magnificent historical buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take your time to explore the narrow side streets and discover hidden gems.

One of the must-visit attractions in Dubrovnik is the Rector’s Palace, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance building that once served as the seat of the Republic of Ragusa. Discover the rich history and culture of the city as you explore the palace and its exhibits.

For history and Game of Thrones fans, a visit to Fort Lovrijenac is a must. This fort, also known as the “Red Keep” in the popular TV series, offers panoramic views of Dubrovnik’s coastline and is steeped in history and legends.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the local restaurants. Dubrovnik is known for its Mediterranean cuisine, so be sure to try dishes such as black risotto, octopus salad, or grilled fish accompanied by a glass of local wine.

In the afternoon, head to the beautiful Banje Beach, located just outside the city walls. Relax on the sandy shores, take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear waters, or indulge in water sports activities.

In the evening, explore the vibrant nightlife of Dubrovnik by visiting one of the bars or cocktail lounges. Enjoy a drink while taking in the breathtaking sunset views over the Adriatic Sea.

As the day comes to an end, check into your accommodation in Dubrovnik and rest up for more adventures tomorrow.

Day 8: Crossing the Border to Slovenia

Today marks the start of your journey to the enchanting country of Slovenia. After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation in Dubrovnik, make your way to the border crossing. The border between Croatia and Slovenia is easily accessible by car or public transportation.

As you cross the border, prepare to be captivated by the natural beauty and charm of Slovenia. Your first destination is the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana, located approximately three hours away from Dubrovnik. Ljubljana is famous for its picturesque riverside location, charming architecture, and friendly atmosphere.

Upon arrival in Ljubljana, check into your accommodation and take some time to freshen up. Then, set out to explore this delightful city. Start by strolling along the Ljubljanica River, lined with outdoor cafes and colorful buildings. Cross the iconic Triple Bridge and visit the impressive Ljubljana Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the city.

Continue your exploration by wandering through the charming old town. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Preseren Square, home to the iconic pink Franciscan Church and the Prešeren Monument. Explore the vibrant Central Market, where you can sample local produce, traditional snacks, and other delights.

Take a break at one of the cozy cafes along the riverbank and indulge in a cup of Slovenian coffee or try a slice of the famous Ljubljana cake.

In the afternoon, visit one of Ljubljana’s top attractions, the renowned Tivoli Park. This expansive green space offers beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and art installations. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and soak in the tranquility.

In the evening, experience the lively nightlife of Ljubljana. Head to the Metelkova neighborhood, an alternative cultural hub filled with bars, clubs, and live music venues. Enjoy the energetic atmosphere and mingle with locals and fellow travelers.

After a day of exploring Ljubljana, return to your accommodation and rest up for more adventures in Slovenia tomorrow. The country offers a wealth of natural wonders and cultural treasures just waiting to be discovered.

Day 9: Exploring Ljubljana

Get ready to embark on a full day of discovery as you continue to explore the captivating city of Ljubljana. After breakfast, set out to further uncover the charm and beauty that this Slovenian capital has to offer.

Start your day by visiting the iconic Ljubljana Castle, perched atop Castle Hill. Take a leisurely walk up or opt for a funicular ride to reach the castle. Once there, explore its various exhibits, climb the tower for panoramic views of the city, and enjoy the castle’s historical ambiance.

After descending from the castle, make your way to the Prešeren Square, the vibrant heart of Ljubljana. Admire the statue of Slovenia’s greatest poet, France Prešeren, and take a moment to appreciate the beautiful pink façade of the Franciscan Church.

From there, cross the famous Triple Bridge and head towards the bustling Central Market. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this lively marketplace, where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and handmade crafts. Don’t miss the chance to try some traditional Slovenian honey or indulge in a delicious pastry.

Continue your exploration by wandering through the charming streets of the old town. Admire the architectural gems such as the Town Hall, Robba Fountain, and St. Nicholas Cathedral. Spend some time browsing through the boutique shops and art galleries that dot the area.

For a peaceful escape, venture to Tivoli Park. This expansive green oasis offers beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, and scenic spots. Take a relaxing stroll, rent a bike, or simply find a cozy spot to sit and soak in the serene atmosphere.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to one of Ljubljana’s cultural institutions, such as the National Gallery or the Museum of Modern Art, to explore Slovenia’s vibrant art scene. Alternatively, you can visit the Museum of Illusions for a mind-bending experience.

As the day draws to a close, find a charming riverside restaurant and treat yourself to a delectable dinner of traditional Slovenian dishes, such as potica (rolled pastry with a variety of fillings) or štruklji (rolled dumplings). Pair your meal with a glass of local wine or a refreshing craft beer.

End your day with a leisurely evening stroll along the Ljubljanica River, enjoying the enchanting views and relaxing ambiance that Ljubljana offers. Take in the twinkling lights reflecting on the water and savor the final moments of this delightful day.

Return to your accommodation in Ljubljana and rest up for your final day of adventures in Slovenia.

Day 10: Visiting Lake Bled

On your final day in Slovenia, prepare to visit one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the country – Lake Bled. After breakfast and checking out from your accommodation in Ljubljana, make your way to this enchanting alpine lake, located approximately an hour’s drive away.

As you arrive at Lake Bled, you’ll be captivated by its stunning beauty. The emerald-green waters, surrounded by towering mountains and a medieval castle perched on a hill, create a picture-perfect setting.

Start your exploration by taking a leisurely walk around the lake’s perimeter, enjoying the fresh air and the tranquil ambiance. The path is approximately 6 kilometers long and offers stunning views at every turn.

Next, make your way to the iconic Bled Island. Hop on a traditional wooden pletna boat, guided by a local oarsman, and glide across the lake’s calm waters to reach the island. Once there, climb the 99 stone steps leading to the Assumption of Mary Church, where you can ring the bell and make a wish as a tradition.

After descending from the island, take the opportunity to visit Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff overlooking the lake. Explore the castle’s museum and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Bled and the surrounding landscapes from its terrace.

As you start to feel hungry, treat yourself to the famous traditional Bled cream cake, or kremšnita, at one of the local cafes near the lake. Indulge in its layers of crispy pastry, luscious vanilla cream, and a generous dollop of whipped cream.

If you’re feeling active, consider renting a rowboat or a stand-up paddleboard to further explore the lake at your own pace. Alternatively, rent a bicycle and cycle around the lake, taking in the stunning scenery and stopping at viewpoints along the way.

Before bidding farewell to Lake Bled, take a moment to soak in the peacefulness and beauty of the surroundings. Capture some last-minute photos and make lasting memories of this unforgettable place.

In the late afternoon, start making your way back to Ljubljana or to your departure location. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories you’ve gathered during your time in Croatia and Slovenia.

Although your journey is coming to an end, the memories and impressions of these beautiful countries will stay with you forever. Remember to cherish the moments you’ve shared, the sights you’ve seen, and the delightful cuisine you’ve tasted.

As you depart, carry with you the spirit of adventure and a desire to explore more of the world’s wonders. Until your next journey, farewell and safe travels!

As your 10-day journey through Croatia and Slovenia comes to a close, you can reflect on the incredible experiences and breathtaking beauty you’ve encountered along the way. From the vibrant streets of Zagreb to the cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park, and from the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik to the tranquil shores of Lake Bled, these two countries have left an indelible mark on your travel memories.

Croatia and Slovenia offer a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. You’ve explored medieval towns and ancient ruins, indulged in delicious local cuisine, bathed in pristine Adriatic waters, and marveled at stunning landscapes. These countries have shown you the richness and diversity of the Balkan region.

From the vibrant capital cities to the charming coastal towns, Croatia has fascinated you with its historical landmarks, mouthwatering gastronomy, and picturesque beaches. The turquoise lakes and cascading waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park have showcased the unspoiled natural beauty of the country.

In Slovenia, you’ve been captivated by the fairy-tale charm of Ljubljana, with its picturesque bridges, colorful buildings, and relaxed atmosphere. The ethereal beauty of Lake Bled, with its emerald waters and idyllic island, has left you in awe.

Throughout your journey, you’ve experienced the warmth and friendliness of the locals, who have shared their culture, stories, and traditions with open hearts. The memories of conversations, laughter, and connections made along the way will always be treasured.

As you return home, carry with you the spirit of adventure and a deeper appreciation for the wonders that the world has to offer. Although this 10-day itinerary has allowed you to explore a small portion of Croatia and Slovenia, there is still so much more to discover.

Whether you choose to revisit these countries to delve deeper into their hidden gems or embark on new adventures elsewhere, may the memories of this journey inspire you to continue exploring and discovering the riches of our diverse world.

Remember, the joy of travel lies not only in the destinations but also in the experiences, connections, and personal growth that come with each adventure. Until your next journey, keep exploring, seeking new horizons, and embracing the beauty of our world.

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18 things you need to know before visiting Croatia

Mary Novakovich

Mar 17, 2024 • 7 min read

travel croatia and slovenia

Plan the perfect Croatia trip with these top tips © TerryPrince / Getty Images

With its glittering coastline, 1244 islands, endlessly fascinating cities and extraordinarily dramatic landscapes, Croatia has been steadily making its way up people’s must-go lists. 

Naturally, tourists are drawn to those beautiful Adriatic beaches that easily hold their own against their Mediterranean rivals. But inland Croatia is just as captivating, from the hilltop villages of Istria to the elegantly buzzing capital, Zagreb .

Don't book your flights just yet though – first, make the most of our planning tips covering everything you need to know about health, safety and etiquette before you go.

People swimming in pools fed by waterfalls

1. Don’t overstretch yourself when planning an itinerary

It might be tempting to squeeze in as many destinations as possible into one trip, but you won’t be doing yourself any favors unless you’re staying for at least two weeks. If you’re planning to visit more than one Adriatic island, think realistically about how much time you can spend in each place and how you will be getting around .

Check the schedule of the national ferry operator,  Jadrolinija , if you intend to do some island-hopping. Croatia has an extensive bus network, but factor in some long journey times if you’re traveling along the Adriatic coast.

2.  Croatia's currency is the euro

Although Croatia joined the EU in 2013, the euro was only introduced as the national currency on the January 1, 2023. The Croatian kuna is no longer in use, and if you happen to have any of the old currency, you'll need to go to the Croatian National Bank to exchange them. 

3. Expect to tip at least 10% in restaurants

Croatia’s tipping culture is more laid-back than in other countries. Having said that, it’s customary to leave at least 10% in restaurants and for beauty and spa treatments. In bars and cafes, just round up the bill. Tour guides appreciate a few euros at the end of a tour, and taxi drivers don’t expect a tip, but, again, if you want to round up a fare to the next euro, it’s appreciated. If you’re filling up your car and notice a few students cleaning car windscreens, consider giving them a couple of euros as they’re working for tips only.

A woman cycles along a coastal path

4. Croatia is generally considered a safe place to travel

Croatia is a safe country with low levels of violent crime. The most prevalent issue for tourists is pickpocketing, but even that’s on a much lower scale than in other European countries. Solo women travelers should be safe on their own, although it’s wise to ask your accommodation provider if there are any areas in the vicinity that are best avoided. When using taxis, all travelers should make certain they’re using a licensed car either from an official taxi rank or ordered from your hotel. Uber operates in most major towns and cities, including Zagreb, Dubrovnik and Split .

5. Some caution is recommended for LGBTIQ+ travelers 

In this relatively conservative country, homosexuality is tolerated, but LGBTIQ+ travelers should be discreet. Public displays of affection could raise a few eyebrows, and some travelers have experienced hostile reactions. Zagreb’s gay scene is growing, however, and both Zagreb and Split hold Gay Pride festivals every June.

6. Bring some swimming shoes

Most of Croatia’s beaches are pebbly or rocky and can be hard to enjoy in bare feet. Just pick up a pair of those neoprene or plastic swimming shoes you see in all the resorts, and you’ll also be protecting your feet from sea urchins that lurk under rocks and pebbles.

7. Nudity at the beach is pretty standard

Naturist beaches are popular in Croatia, and sometimes you won’t know you’re on one until people start stripping off. Most are marked with FKK – the German phrase “Frei-Körper-Kultur,” meaning free body culture – which isn't surprising as Germans make up some of the biggest numbers of tourists in Croatia. Away from the FKK beaches, topless bathing is quite common.

8. Dodge the crowds in Dubrovnik by timing your visit carefully

There could be times when up to 8000 cruise ship passengers might descend on Dubrovnik in one day. That’s the cue to stay away from the Old Town  within the city walls until they leave in the late afternoon. Keep an eye on the Dubrovnik Port Authority’s website for cruise arrivals and the online crowd monitoring system that predicts the numbers of visitors. 

9. Wi-fi is readily available

Croatia is part of EU roaming, which is handy if you have a contract that allows you to use your data abroad. It’s easy to find wi-fi in cafes and bars – just ask the server for the password ( šifra ).

People in swimsuits sunbathe on the pier in Adriatic coast with sailboats, ship and houses in the distance behind them

10. Swimwear is for the beach, not the town

If you’re visiting churches and other sacred sites, keep your shoulders covered and avoid bare thighs. If you’re wearing a hat, take it off when you’re in a church. Even though dress codes are relaxed on the coast, Split, Dubrovnik and Hvar have passed laws against walking around the city in swimwear or bare-chested. Croatians like to dress smartly and take great pride in their appearance, so do as they do and avoid looking scruffy.

11.  Don’t get drunk in public

Croatia has developed a reputation as a place to party, which has led to some areas being inundated with badly behaved drunken tourists. After years of enduring this, the mayor of Hvar Town had enough. In 2017, the destination started to issue fines of up to €700 for public drunkenness and things like taking a drunken nap in a public place, such as on a park bench. Split introduced fines of up to €300 in 2023, placing signs in the city center reminding people that public drinking is not allowed, and that no one should be urinating on the walls of Diocletian's Palace .

12. Get to know the Croatian character

Croatians can be quite reserved people, sometimes appearing brusque. It’s nothing personal, which you'll realize when you get to know them better, and the initial reserve melts to reveal a warm and friendly side.

13. Be tactful when talking about Croatia’s war of independence

The 1990s war that splintered the former Yugoslavia is a topic that needs careful handling. If people show a willingness to talk about it, then by all means ask sensible questions. But don’t be intrusive, and bear in mind that Croatians won’t take too kindly to being called either Yugoslav or Balkan. Similarly, in this predominantly Catholic country, be mindful of making loud statements against religion.

14. You can drink the tap water

Tap water in Croatia is perfectly safe and very drinkable, and you can refill your reusable water bottles at public drinking fountains.

A red car drive around a bend with Dubrovnik in the background

15. Keep your lights on if driving during winter months

If you’re driving in Croatia from November to April, it’s compulsory to have your lights on during daylight hours as well as at night.

16. Croatia has occasional earthquakes

Croatia has a history of earthquakes going back centuries, but two recent ones in 2020 caused significant damage. The quake that shook Zagreb damaged thousands of buildings, many of which are in the old town, including the cathedral. Soon after, the city of Petrinja, about an hour’s drive south of Zagreb, was severely damaged in a quake, and aftershocks rippled throughout the region. If an earthquake happens while you're there, follow local guidance.

17. There are still some landmines

There are still parts of the country in the hinterlands of Northern Dalmatia and Lika where landmines remain from the war of independence, but these will be signposted with a skull and crossbones symbol. Don’t go anywhere near them.

18. Take out travel insurance

Dial 112 for general emergencies, 192 for police, and 194 for an ambulance. If you fall ill in Croatia and you're an EU citizen with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a UK citizen with a Global Health Insurance Card, you’re entitled to a vastly reduced price for health care . But even with this cover, you should still take out travel insurance.

This article was first published May 2022 and updated March 2024

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8 days | travel to cities, mountains and beaches in croatia and slovenia.

travel croatia and slovenia

This adventure bounds from the Gothic monuments of Split, through the pristine scenery of Plitvice Lakes National Park and ancient streets of Old Town Zadar, then on to Zagreb. After leaving the Dalmatian coastline, cross into Slovenia to discover the enchanting surrounds of Bled. This jam-packed journey offers lush forest hikes, breathtaking landscapes, medieval architecture and scrumptious food along with a good insight into the ancient Croatian and Slovenian culture.

Trip overview

  • Explore beautiful Split – a haven of relaxation and culture where tradition, modernity and a variety of European influences come together. Unwind with a walk along the waterfront promenade and explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace.
  • Feel the rich heritage of the former capital of Dalmatia with each step on the marble streets of Zadar, and visit a local nunnery and learn about their work on the farm.
  • Discover Zagreb and Ljubljana, capitals of Croatia and Slovenia and relax in their extensive green spaces, find hidden spots and experience the lively culture with your free time.
  • Stroll through Plitvice Lakes National Park, marvelling at luminous lakes and waterfalls that seem to have been sketched by an artist. Then, visit a nearby NGO to learn about how they're preserving an important cultural craft.
  • Explore the Slovenian town of Bled – an active paradise, the beautiful town lies on a stunning lake at the edge of the Julian Alps with an island church that appears to have come straight out of a fairytale.
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Humana Zagreb. Donations help provide job opportunities and education programs in sustainable fashion and textiles for people with disabilities.
  • Please be aware that the Croatian coast is very hilly and mountainous, which means lots & lots of steps are an inherent feature of the landscape. You will have to be able to easily lift your luggage and carry it up and down stairs and inclines. Also, stone streets become very slippery when wet. Some people may find Croatia's topography very demanding.
  • Summer temperatures can be extreme in many of the regions visited (over 40°C), which can be uncomfortable. It’s important to use sun protection, wear layers to combat the heat and drink plenty of water. Additionally, please be aware that July, August and the first half of September is high season along the Croatian coast, which means that the local infrastructure is under a lot of pressure with a lot of people in the towns we visit. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season.
  • Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together.
  • If you have more time to explore the region you can extend your trip by starting your travels in Dubrovnik and exploring the Dalmatian Coast. Check out our trip 'Dubrovnik to Bled' (trip code ZMSUC). Most departure dates are designed to create this perfect combination trip.
  • On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips.

Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure starts in Split with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If Dubrovnik is considered the heart of Dalmatia, Split is certainly its soul. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, it's the second largest city in Croatia. Split grew out from Diocletian's Palace and you can almost see it evolving in a multitude of different ways right before your eyes. Some cultures might have made the palace a museum, but the city of Split has always been a dynamic, vibrant place and the palace houses many businesses as well as being home to locals. After the group meeting, maybe head out for your first taste of Dalmatian cuisine with the group.

  • Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

  • Split - Fish Market - Free
  • Split – Highlights of Split Urban Adventure - EUR79
  • Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
  • Split - City Museum - EUR4
  • Split - Gallery of Fine Arts - EUR5
  • Split - Ethnographic Museum - EUR3
  • Split - Diocletian's Palace Cellars - EUR7
  • Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery - EUR12
  • Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower - EUR10
  • Split - Archaeological Museum - EUR8

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

This morning, you'll travel by local bus northwest to Zadar. For centuries Zadar was the capital city of Dalmatia, and the city's rich heritage is visible at every step. An important coastal town, the musical steps of the ‘Sea Organ’ on Zadar's waterfront express its important relationship with the sea. Trace marble streets through the Old Town and discover Roman ruins in amongst medieval churches. Enjoy some local food and drinks in a city that’s home to a vibrant café culture. Zadarsko pivo is a light beer with a very pleasant taste, just a little bit bitter, with a rich flavour. After, maybe treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a contemporary Croatian restaurant. Try njoki (lamb in red wine) with Dalmatian ham and rocket salad, or opt for the popular choice of fresh tuna carpaccio or a fillet in scampi sauce. Also try the famous liqueur, Maraskino, made from locally-grown maraschino cherries according to a centuries' old secret recipe. This unique drink was a favourite at European imperial and royal courts and has been produced in Zadar since 1821.

  • Zadar - Leader-led orientation walk
  • Zadar – Museum of ancient glass - EUR6
  • Zadar – Gold and Silver of the city of Zadar Museum - EUR6
  • Zadar - Archaeological Museum - EUR5
  • Zadar - Cathedral Bell Tower - EUR2
  • Zadar - Church of Saint Donat - EUR4
  • Zadar - St Anastasia's Cathedral - Free
  • Zadar - Roman Forum - Free

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Head out of the city this morning and enjoy a special experience meeting with the local Benedictine nuns on a visit to their nunnery and their farm. You'll get a chance to connect with them and learn about their way of life in the nunnery and on the farm. You'll even get the opportunity to taste test the preserves and pickles they make on the farm. After some time to explore and meet the locals, you'll head back to Zadar in the afternoon and enjoy free time in this charming and vibrant city.

  • Zadar - Nunnery & farm visit

Drive inland this morning and travel north to your next base of Grabovac. Here, you’ll visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a misty Eden of endless waterfalls and spectral blue lakes. Fed by the Bijela and Crna (White and Black) Rivers, the waters tumble from a high, tree-lined ridge down through the valley and skirt dense forests of beech, spruce and pine. A series of wooden walkways pass over the landscape, ensuring there’s little impact on the park. Sixteen stunning turquoise lakes, fed by underground springs, are split into the upper and lower lakes. The upper are in the dolomite cliffs, where rushing water weaves in and out of the karst, dropping dramatically down to the lower lakes, with enchanting forests, grottoes and steep cliffs. This interplay of water, rock and plant-life creates a wondrous, dynamic landscape, changing the water colour from azure to bright green, deep blue to grey. Look to the canopy for over 120 species of birds, including hawks and owls. The butterflies that hover through the trees transform the park into a riot of colour in the autumn. After, visit Licko Petrovo Selo, a small village next to the park with a local NGO that focuses on preserving the historical art of wooly men's underwear. Take a short tour of the NGO and hear about how they preserve this important part of local cultural heritage (and maybe even grab a souvenir to take home and support the locals).

  • Guesthouse (1 night)
  • Plitvice Lakes - National Park Visit
  • Licko Petrovo Selo NGO visit

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Continue to Croatia’s capital and largest city – Zagreb. Full of parks and squares, Zagreb is a laid-back place, proud of its coffee culture and the perfect spot to simply wander. Follow your leader on an orientation walk when you arrive and then enjoy some free time for the rest of your day here. Maybe join in one of the many free walking tours in the city and engage with a local here to learn about their daily life, or browse the city’s stunning architecture from neo-baroque to gothic and more. You could check out Tkalciceva Street’s lively social scene, or head up Medvednica Mountain where the views stretch as far as neighboring Slovenia on a clear day. To live like a local, may be head to Zagreb’s open-air markets where you’ll find all kinds of fresh vegetables, nuts, honey and liqueurs.

  • Zagreb - Leader-led Orientation Walk
  • Zagreb - Museum of Broken Relationships - EUR7
  • Zagreb - Mirogoj Cemetery - Free
  • Zagreb - Cathedral - Free
  • Zagreb - The Croatian Museum of Naive Art - EUR5
  • Zagreb - City Museum - EUR4
  • Zagreb - Lotrščak Tower - EUR3
  • Zagreb - Funicular - EUR1

This morning, take the train and cross the border to Ljubljana first. One of the smallest capital in Europe, Ljubljana makes up by being one of the greenest and vibrant city in Europe.Follow your leader on an orientation walk here and then take the funicular up to Ljubljana Castle where you'll have a great view of the city. After some time here, take a local public bus and continue to Bled, situated on the stunning lake of the same name. Take in the mountainous backdrop, lake, and impressive cliff-top fortress, which all combine to make this a wonderful place to visit. There are many outdoor activities to get the blood pumping in Bled: rafting, caving, canoeing and swimming, to name a few.

  • Pension (1 night)
  • Ljubljana - Castle and Funicular
  • Ljubljana - Leader-led walking tour

Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Please note that in Bled you're staying in a pension, which is located in a private house. All rooms are located in the same building, however they differ in layout, can vary in size and all have shared facilities. The house is located a 20-minute walk from the lake shore. This is the most effective way of staying in Bled.

This morning embark on a walk around beautiful Lake Bled with your leader. This scenic walk passes some impressive villas, mostly from the beginning of the 19th century, including the residence of the former Yugoslav president 'Marshal' Tito – today the Hotel Vila Bled. The rest of the day is free for you to explore all that Bled and the surrounding area has to offer. If you’re feeling active, consider riding out to Vintgar Gorge and walk through the natural canyon. Bled is renowned for its mild, healing climate and thermal lake water. Maybe head to the 100-m-high cliff-top Old Bled Castle, dating from the 11th century and overlooking sparkling Lake Bled, then take a Pletna boat ride (a wooden, awning-covered boat rowed by a special oarsman) to the island on Lake Bled – climb up the 99 steps to St Mary's Church and ring the wishing bell. Be sure to seek out the famous Bled cream cake, which isn’t hard; nearly every cafe and cake shop in town claims that theirs is the best. You might even consider doing a day trip to nearby Ljubljana, Slovenia's compact yet cosmopolitan capital city. Then, why not celebrate the end of a remarkable journey with a final group meal.

  • Bled - Walk around Lake Bled
  • Bled - Mountain Bike Hire - EUR25
  • Bled - Pletna Boat Trip - EUR14
  • Triglav National Park - Canyoning - EUR65
  • Bled - Castle - EUR15
  • Triglav National Park - River Rafting - EUR55
  • Triglav National Park - Bus and Cable Car Trip to Mt Vogel - EUR32
  • Triglav National Park - Emerald River Adventure (full day) - EUR110
  • Triglav National Park - Vintgar Gorge - EUR10

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. If you'd like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

6 breakfasts

Public bus, Private vehicle, Taxi

Hotel (4 nights), Guesthouse (1 night), Pension (2 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A single supplement is bookable for this trip, excluding Day 1 (Hotel). Availability is limited due to small properties we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Croatia & Slovenia Travel Guide

Waterfalls in National Park Plitvice Lakes,sunrise over waterfal - Slovenia & Croatia Tours

Croatia and Slovenia: What to know before you go

If the Mediterranean coastlines and lush green interiors of these beautiful European nations are on your travel list, take a look at this Croatia and Slovenia travel guide.

Whether you’re worried about visa requirements, want to know what currency you’ll need or are simply curious about getting around your chosen vacation spot, we’re here to put your mind at ease with expert tips and advice. 

Croatia and Slovenia Travel Guide - Dubrovnik

Visa and Entry

Whether you need a visa to enter Croatia and Slovenia will depend on which country you’re coming from. In general, US travelers do not require a visa to enter either destination if they’re visiting for tourism or business purposes and for less than 90 days.

To enter Croatia, you’ll need to make sure that you have a valid US passport which isn’t due to expire for at least three months. Upon arrival, you should register yourself with the local police within three days. If you’re staying at a hotel, B&B or vacation rental, this will usually be done for you at check in.

Note that Croatia is not part of the Schengen Area. If your European vacation itinerary includes any locations that are part of the Schengen Area, it’s recommended that you have at least six months validity left on your passport to avoid any issues.

As Slovenia is part of the Schengen Area, you’re not required to apply for a visa before you visit if you’re staying for under 90 days and are a US passport holder. You will, however, need to have at least three months left on your passport.

You are also required to have proof of a return flight and to register with the local authorities within three days of your arrival (again, hotels etc. should do this for you when you check in). If you’re planning on vacationing in Slovenia (or any of the other 25 countries within the Schengen zone) for more than 90 days, note that you’ll need to apply for a long term visa or temporary residency.

Visa application

Despite both countries being part of Europe, previously, only Slovenia had the Euro (EUR or €) as their recognized currency. In Croatia, the local currency used is the Euro (€). Croatia transitioned from using the Croatian Kuna on the 31st of December 2022 and has since adopted the Euro.

You should be able to use your credit or debit card in Croatia and Slovenia. If you’re planning to do so, remember to inform your bank that you’re traveling beforehand to avoid any problems or extra fees.

Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Like most countries in Europe, Croatia and Slovenia’s tipping policies are usually at your own discretion and not a requirement.

In Croatia, it’s typical to leave a tip of around 10-15% of your final bill at restaurants if you’ve received good service and are happy with your meal. Tipping is not obligatory in Slovenia, however a 10-20% gratuity will always be welcomed and is a nice way of showing appreciation for particularly great service.

Germany Tour Vintage retro glass jar with hemp rope tie tip box tag and few coins inside on wood counter

The national language in Croatia is Croatian and around 95% of the population speak it. In Slovenia, the locals speak Slovene, however, a small minority speak Croatian.

In both countries, you’ll find many people speak English as their second language. This is especially true in the cities and at certain venues such as hotels or tourist attractions.

USA travel guide - language

Health Information

Before you set off on your vacation to Croatia and/or Slovenia, there are a few vaccines which you may want to get. Recommended vaccinations for both countries include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Rabies (particularly if you’re visiting somewhere rural). It’s also a good idea to have your routine vaccinations updated before you visit.

If you’re on any regular medication, make sure you take more than enough with you in case there are any delays with your return travel. In general, the medical care in both countries is of a good standard and you’ll find hospitals and medical centers in all cities and major towns.

Emergency numbers

You can use the European emergency number (112) to contact the authorities in both countries. If you’re involved in an incident and want to contact a specific department, they are as follows:

Croatia Police – 192 Fire department – 193 Ambulance service – 194

Slovenia Police – 113 Fire department – 112 Ambulance service – 112

Medicine - Uganda travel guide

Getting Around

Both Croatia and Slovenia have extensive road systems which make traveling around and between them simple. If you’re not planning on hiring a vehicle though, you may want to clue yourself in on alternative modes of transport.

Getting around Croatia

Buses are the most popular options for getting around Croatia, especially if you’re moving between cities and towns. You could also choose to fly if you’re visiting places at opposite ends of the country or use the national rail network (although note that there is no train station in Dubrovnik).

If you’re visiting one of the Croatian islands, the easiest (and most atmospheric) way to get to them tends to be by ferry or private boat from the mainland. The frequency of boats and ferries increases in the busier summer months, although most services will run all year round.  

Getting around Slovenia

Buses are by far the most popular way to travel around Slovenia if you’re not renting a car. You’ll also have the option of taking a train, although services are infrequent and slow unless you’re traveling on the fast inter-city trains. Cycling is very popular in places like Ljubljana, Bled and Piran, and you will find several bicycle rental shops and dedicated cycle paths.

Get in touch with us for your private and tailor-made tour of Croatia and Slovenia.

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Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Lake Bled is an aqua-toned Alpine lake set against a dramatic backdrop of the Julian Alps and the Karavanke, by the old town of Bled. This popular resort town looks as though it may have materialized right out of a magical postcard.

Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Discover Brac, a pleasant island amid the Adriatic Sea, in southern Croatia. Accessible via mainland ferry from Split and Makarska, Brac’s capital Supetar is known for its laid back vibe.

Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Dubrovnik has to be one of the best preserved historical towns standing by the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea. The Old Town of Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is nothing short of a time capsule, taking you back centuries to its heyday as a great mercantile port.

Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Goriska Brda Wine Region is a stunning wine country wedged between the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Alps on the other. Travel through the region’s lovely green rolling hills dotted with quaint little medieval villages, old stone bridges, local churches, and verdant vineyards.

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Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Hvar is a beautiful island resort on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea, well known for its hip and happening nightlife. Think a port harbor lined with smart yachts, ferry boats plying between nearby island towns, and the lure of secluded bays and beaches attracting vacationers to the island.

Croatia Travel Guide and Slovenia Tours

Korčula is a lovely little Croatian island in the Adriatic Sea, just off the dramatic Dalmatian coast. The island is home to the centuries old port fort town of Korčula, which is still to be seen today.

Best Time To Visit

With distinct seasons and widely varying temperatures, it’s prudent to know the best times to visit Slovenia and Croatia so that you can explore and experience these delightful countries to their fullest.

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When it comes to things to do in Slovenia and Croatia, there’s plenty to see and enjoy beyond their beautiful Mediterranean coastlines. Here is a list of our top ten favorites!

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Croatia & Slovenia (7 destinations)

  • Partially Guided

Places You’ll See

Split

  • Introduction
  • Day 1 Split
  • Day 2 Zadar
  • Day 3 Zadar
  • Day 4 Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Day 5 Zagreb
  • Day 6 Ljubljana/ Bled

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What's Included

  • Accommodation
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Reviews About This Operator

  • Tour Operator Intrepid Travel 4.6
  • Nicolas · 3rd October 2023 The locations visited were fantastic. Our tour leader, Nina, was very helpful and made us feel like we had a local... Show more
  • Jai · 1st October 2023 I do very good trip from Dubrovnik to Bled with Intrepid. This was my first time with Intrepid Travel . Starting with... Show more
  • Abigail · 6th August 2023 Our tour guide mel was amazing, however the weather was not on our side for the tour.

Dates & Availability

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  • Currencies € Euro kn Kuna Croatia

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

  • These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
  • Hepatitis B - Recommended for Croatia and Slovenia. Ideally 2 months before travel.
  • Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Croatia and Slovenia. Ideally 6 months before travel.
  • Hepatitis A - Recommended for Slovenia. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
  • Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
  • Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
  • For any tour departing before 28th May 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 28th May 2024, a minimum payment of €400 is required to confirm your booking with Intrepid Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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Wandering our World

Your Journey Begins Here

  • by Wandering our World
  • Posted on January 12, 2024

Slovenia vs Croatia: An Honest Comparison To Help You Choose

Last updated on January 12, 2024 by Wandering our World

The nations of Central Europe are often overlooked by tourists in favor of their Western counterparts, like France and Spain. Yet, this part of the European continent is well worth exploring, being home to some breathtaking natural landscapes, unique cultures, and warm, welcoming people, all of which you can find in Slovenia and Croatia.

But, if you’ve only got the time or budget to see only one, which of these two nations should you choose? Well, it may not be an easy choice, as Croatia and Slovenia both have such a wonderful array of advantages and unique attractions to offer, from the beautiful golden beaches of the former to the fantastic wine regions of the latter.

Fortunately, there are plenty of big differences to discover that separate Slovenia and Croatia. For example, they differ hugely in size and population, with Slovenia being less than half the size of Croatia. They also have differing food, culture, traditions, and more, and you may find that one of the two is much more appealing to you than the other.

And this guide is here to help you decide. Below, we’ll put Slovenia and Croatia side-by-side, comparing them in a range of key areas, like activities, beaches, nightlife, and more, in order to discover which one is best for families, couples, backpackers, and other types of traveler. Read on to learn all you need to know.

A Quick Overview Of Slovenia vs Croatia

Which is best for activities, which is best for beaches, which is best for towns and cities, which is best for nature and outdoors, which is best for nightlife, which is best for shopping, which is best for food, which is best for families, which is best for couples, which is best for backpackers, which is cheapest, where to stay according to your budget, slovenia vs croatia: which is better, wandering our world’s ten-second comparison:.

An infographic presenting Slovenia vs Croatia showing some of the key differences that will be discovered later in the article.

Slovenia: A Quick Overview

In the heart of Triglav National Park, Bohinj Lake captivates with its pristine beauty. The Church of St John the Baptist stands gracefully by a charming bridge, surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps in Slovenia.

Slovenia is a Central Europe, bordering the likes of Italy, Austria, Hungary, and Croatia. It also has a short stretch of coastline on the Adriatic Sea, though can’t quite compete with Croatia in terms of the quantity of beaches. Around 2.1 million people live here, and the nation itself covers around 7,827 square miles overall.

Geographically, Slovenia is known for its diverse and pristine landscapes, with large parts of the country covered in dense forests or tall mountains. It’s the meeting point of four major European regions: the Alps, the Dinarides, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Pannonian Plain, making it a magical place for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.

As well as being at the crossroads of geographic regions, Slovenia has also always existed at a kind of crossroads of cultures, soaking up ideas and influences from the Slavic, Germanic, and Romance nations. It’s been part of various empires and states, from the Roman Empire to Yugoslavia, only becoming an independent nation in 1991.

Serene Bled captivates with its emerald lake cradling an island adorned with a fairytale church. A medieval castle perches atop cliffs, embraced by the Julian Alps' majestic embrace. Slovenia's masterpiece.

Nowadays, Slovenia is a developed nation with a strong economy, ranking as the richest Slavic nation in terms of GDP per capita. It’s not quite on the same touristic level as Croatia, still being classed as something of an “off the beaten path” destination, but still has much to offer, from scenic wine regions to hiking trails, caves, lakes, and charming cities.

Croatia: A Quick Overview

On Hvar island in the Dalmatian archipelago, a Franciscan monastery graces the landscape, overlooking a turquoise beach. Croatia's Hvar is a coastal gem, blending history with stunning natural beauty.

Croatia is a Central European nation that stretches out across 21,851 square miles. It has borders with several other nations, including Hungary, Slovenia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as a very long stretch of coastline looking out over the Adriatic. Around 3.9 million people live here, with more than a million in and around the capital of Zagreb.

Its long coast is a distinctive feature of the Croatian landscape, with this country being famed and beloved for its gorgeous golden sand beaches and scenic coastal citadels. However , there’s also much to be found inland, with Croatia being home to a diverse array of sights, from dense forests to caves, lakes, hills, and even the peaks of the Dinaric Alps.

There’s also a lot of history to uncover in Croatia, with the country’s roots going all the way back to the 6th century, when the Croat people first settled there. As the centuries went by, Croatia formed bonds and unions with various neighboring nations, like Hungary and Serbia, before eventually becoming independent in 1991.

From above, Dubrovnik's old town unfolds like a living tapestry, its terracotta roofs and medieval walls kissed by the Adriatic Sea. A captivating aerial dance of history in Croatia.

These days, the country is a prosperous nation with a particularly strong tourism sector. Countless people flock here each year, especially to its beautiful coastal cities, like Dubrovnik, and its dozens of flawless Blue Flag beaches. With soft sands, clean waters, great food, and lively nightlife, there’s something for everyone here.

Whether you choose to visit Slovenia or Croatia, you’ll find a huge range of activities to enjoy, both in the towns and cities and out in the wilderness. Whether you love big city attractions like museums and shopping or outdoor fun like hikes and bike rides, both of these countries have got it all. Here’s a brief rundown of all the best things to do.

Slovenia: The Activities

In the tranquil embrace of Triglav National Park, Jasna Lake Park unveils a summer evening spectacle. Nature's canvas in Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, where the beauty of Europe harmonizes with pristine landscapes.

With its vast swathes of mountains and forests, Slovenia is one of the best Central European countries to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities. You’ll find many breathtaking places to hike and explore here, like Vintgar Gorge, with its many wooden boardwalks weaving above the Radovna River, or vast Triglav National Park, with long treks through the Julian Alps.

Lake Bled is another must-see natural landmark in Slovenia. In fact, some people visit this country purely for Lake Bled, one of the most picturesque lakes in all of Europe. Boasting clear waters, romantic swimming spots, snow-capped mountains, and even a castle, it’s like stepping into a fairytale.

While Lake Bled takes most of the headlines, Lake Bohini is another gem to check out, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, while the Soca River Valley is another prime example of Slovenia’s pristine nature, with the most beautiful blue waters and awesome rafting conditions. Then, there are the country’s vast wine regions, like Podravje, with vineyards galore.

Discover Vintgar Gorge, an iconic canyon near Bled in Triglav, Slovenia. Wooden paths guide along the mesmerizing Radovna River, culminating in the charm of an ancient bridge. European allure at its finest.

Of course, Slovenia also has an urban side, with many cities and towns to explore. The capital, Ljubljana, is absolutely worth a spot, with its fantastic dragon statues, colorful architecture, and many museums exploring the country’s past, while coastal Piran and Koper offer winding alleys, sea views, and lovely historic landmarks to visit.

Croatia: The Activities

Dubrovnik's old town and harbor form a seamless tapestry of ancient beauty on Croatia's coastline. The historic charm emanates from the limestone streets to the azure embrace of the Adriatic Sea.

When it comes to Croatia, most visitors will want to spend much of their time along the country’s long Adriatic coast, hopping between the many glamorous resort towns and old medieval fortresses that make up this fantastic stretch of shoreline. Dubrovnik is one of the must-sees – renowned for its fantasy-style architecture, it was famously used for filming Game of Thrones.

Beyond Dubrovnik, you’ll find many more gorgeous towns and cities dotted along Croatia’s coastline. There’s Split, for instance, which is the second-biggest city in the country and home to some of the prettiest beaches, or Zadar, which has centuries of history and a stunning Venetian Old Town district, ideal for couples to explore.

There’s also more to see in Croatia’s inland regions. That’s where you’ll find the nation’s capital city, Zagreb, which has many interesting museums and galleries to go along with its stellar shopping and dining scenes, along with rural spaces like the Slovania wine region and sprawling nature reserves, like Park Prirode Lonjsko Polje.

Outdoor recreation is also a big part of the experience in Croatia. The coast is lined with idyllic beaches for swimming, sunbathing, boat tours, and watersports, while inland areas and national parks provide the perfect backdrop for endless hours of hiking and other outdoor activities, either solo or with friends and family.

Zadar's historic peninsula unfolds in a panoramic aerial dance, revealing the timeless beauty of Dalmatia in Croatia. A tapestry of ancient charm, where history meets the Adriatic's azure embrace.

Overall, both of these countries have plenty of fun and fascinating things to do, but there’s much more of a focus on nature and wilderness in Slovenia, with lots more cities, beaches, and resort areas to enjoy in Croatia. With its larger size, Croatia also offers the most diversity in terms of its attractions, with someone to please almost any kind of traveler.

Brac Island's south coast, Murvica village unveils a picturesque pebble beach. Croatia's coastal gem, where crystal-clear waters meet the tranquility of this Adriatic haven.

When it comes to beaches, there’s not much of a contest between Croatia and Slovenia. Croatia’s coastline is much, much longer, with many more miles of soft sands, glistening waters, and wonderful views. In contrast, Slovenia has only a small section of coastline and a much more restricted range of beaches to visit.

In Croatia, the list of coastal gems goes on and on. There’s the gorgeous Murvica beach on the Island of Brac, for example, boasting amazing views of nearby Hvar, or the city beach of Bacvice in Split, where families can be seen splashing around in the warm, gentle waters. From Zlatni Rat to Pasjaca and Sahara, there really are so many beaches, you’ll never get bored.

Slovenia can’t compete with Croatia in terms of quantity of its beaches, but it does have some top quality sandy expanses to visit. Portoroz is the most famous. Lined by impressive resorts and fancy restaurants, it’s where many locals come for a seaside summer day. Piran Beach is also very pretty and romantic, while Mestna Beach in Koper is a super spot to watch the sunset.

Portoroz's beach promenade, nestled in Istria on the Adriatic, epitomizes European charm. A scenic fusion where the azure Adriatic meets the elegant allure of Slovenia's coastal beauty.

All in all, if you want a beach getaway, you simply have to choose Croatia. It has way more beaches and much more diversity in terms of beach size, style, and vibe. But, if you only want a day or two at the beach as part of a broader travel itinerary, Slovenia isn’t a bad choice.

Dubrovnik, Croatia, a coastal jewel framed by ancient walls. Terracotta rooftops dotting limestone streets, the Adriatic's azure embrace, and centuries of history etched in every stone.

If you love the hustle and bustle of city life and want to explore the culture and history of the country you visit, you’ll want to know which of Slovenia or Croatia has the most interesting and exciting urban centers. Well, both cities have some super towns to see, but Croatia once again has the benefit of being larger, with more options to choose from.

Many people will want to travel along the country’s coastline and stop off at the many historic walled cities that line it, like Dubrovnik, which has an amazing cathedral and romantic Old Town, or Split, a dreamy resort for sunbathing and family fun. Zagreb is also a cultural hotspot, while smaller towns like Hvar and Rovinj are ideal for couples seeking romance and escapism.

In Slovenia, most towns tend to be quite small and cozy, but there are still lots of lovely places to see. Maribor feels like a living work of art with its stunning cathedral and architecture, while Piran has Venetian architecture and soothing spas. Koper is filled with history as the country’s oldest town, and Kranj boasts secret WWII tunnels and great hiking.

Kastela's scenic promenade, a hidden gem in the suburb of Split, Croatia. Tranquil charm unfolds as the Adriatic whispers along the coastline, revealing the beauty of this coastal haven.

Overall, both countries have plenty of pretty towns and cities to see. Croatia is best for coastal towns and lively vibes, and also has the more dynamic and busy capital. But, if you’re seeking quiet and quaint villages, untouched by the tourism industry, Slovenia has a whole bunch of them.

The famed Vintgar Gorge, adorned in autumn hues, captivates near Lake Bled in Triglav National Park, Slovenia. A beloved canyon where a wooden path weaves through nature's vibrant tapestry.

If you adore nature and the great outdoors, Croatia and Slovenia are both fantastic destinations to consider. They’re both got vast areas of pristine nature, with dense forests, towering peaks, and jaw-dropping lakes to admire. Hiking, cycling, climbing, kayaking, and general exploration are all possible in both of these places.

However, of the two, Slovenia is arguably the best choice for the average outdoor enthusiast. Since this country has less tourism than Croatia, large parts of it are still completely untouched and feel very authentic and pristine, with near-endless acres of gorges, canyons, forests, and scenic green spaces to explore and hiking trails for all experience levels.

Over in Croatia, you can also find big nature reserves and more than enough hiking trails to keep you occupied for several weeks. However, many places tend to be a bit busier and noisier than in Croatia compared to Slovenia, which can be a little off-putting for those who want to truly escape into a peaceful natural space.

Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia, offers a breathtaking panorama. Azure lakes cascade through lush landscapes, creating a symphony of nature's beauty that captivates the soul.

Overall, Slovenia is the better choice for hikes, wildlife-watching, and similar activities. But if you prefer watersports and coastal recreation, head to Croatia instead.

Dubrovnik's old town at night unveils a magical panorama, where ancient walls and limestone streets are bathed in a soft glow. The Adriatic whispers, and history comes alive in the heart of Croatia.

If you love nightlife, Croatia is a terrific place to go. Especially along the coast, you’ll find no shortage of places to party and have fun after dark, with places like Dubrovnik and Split boasting dozens of beach bars, cocktail spots, dance clubs, and more. Plus, since it’s a bigger and busier place than Slovenia, it tends to feel much livelier in the evenings.

If you want great nightlife in Slovenia, you’ll need to head to Ljubljana. T hat’s where you’ll find the most varied venues for drinking, dancing, and mingling with the locals. There are some super clubs here and live entertainment spots to check out for music and more, but Slovenia’s other towns and cities are a little lacking in the nightlife department.

To sum up, if you love staying out late, partying and having fun, you should probably pick Croatia over Slovenia.

Ban Jelačić Square, the heart of Zagreb, Croatia, hosts a vibrant market. A tapestry of colors and scents, where locals and visitors immerse in the lively atmosphere of this central square.

Shopping is another super way to spend your time in either Slovenia or Croatia. And Croatia’s shopping scene is particularly impressive, with coastal cities like Dubrovnik and Split simply filled to the bursting point with boutiques, chain stores, and independent ateliers selling everything from high-end Euro fashion to handmade crafts and jewelry.

In comparison, Slovenia’s shopping scene is a little simpler and not quite as diverse. Ljubljana is the main place to shop, where you can find a mixture of malls, department stores, and long streets lined with boutiques. Beyond that, Slovenia’s small towns often have charming independent stores selling handcrafted items.

Overall, if you love to shop and want the widest range of options, pick Croatia.

Savor the delight of truklji, a quintessential Slovenian dessert. This traditional dish combines soft dough and a sweet cottage cheese filling, artfully adorned with fresh berries for a delicious culinary experience.

Food-wise, Croatia continues to impress, boasting some of the best seafood in all of Central Europe. All along the coast, you can find tons of delicious fish dishes, but if seafood isn’t your thing, Croatia also has many flavorful meaty stews and Mediterranean-style dishes made with simple, traditional ingredients.

Slovenian cuisine is a little richer, with lots of bread and dough-based dishes like struklji dumplings and zganci spoonbread. There are some delicious cakes and desserts in Slovenia too, like the famous gibanica layer cake, as well as great cold cuts and cheeses to snack on before your main course.

Overall, it all depends on personal taste. Both countries have a great range of traditional dishes and delicacies to try, though Croatia’s culinary scene is a little more diverse, with more options on the menu.

Poreč, Croatia: Parentino Beach, where holidaymakers and locals find serenity. Against the backdrop of the historic medieval town, Istria's coastal charm invites relaxation by the Adriatic waves.

There’s lots to love about Slovenia if you’re visiting as a family. The country’s compact size makes it easy to get around, and the quiet nature of many towns and cities can appeal to parents and kids alike. Active families will also have lots of fun exploring this nation’s wonderful parks and nature preserves for hikes and more.

Croatia is also a top-class destination for families, with a vast array of activities and attractions to please all ages. Children are sure to have a magical time visiting the medieval coastal cities of Croatia, for example, and the beaches here are very safe and family-friendly, with lots of soft sands and gentle waters.

Overall, both countries can work equally well for families, and it all depends on which activities you and your young ones enjoy the most. Many families will probably prefer Croatia, because of its beaches, but if you’re eager for a more peaceful family adventure, Slovenia’s a super place to choose.

A couple indulges in vibrant ice cream in the enchanting streets of Rovinj, Croatia. The Adriatic sea serves as a backdrop to this picturesque scene, embodying the essence of a dreamy travel experience.

Couples can also have a magical and memorable time in either Croatia or Slovenia. Slovenia has the benefit of endless expenses of pristine wilderness where you and your partner can feel a million miles from big city life, as well as gorgeous wine valleys, relaxing spas, and cute, charming towns to wander around, hand-in-hand.

Meanwhile, if you and your special someone prefer coastal fun, luxury resorts, and seaside excitement, Croatia’s the place to be. Couples tend to adore the seafront cities like Hvar and Split, which have so many romantic restaurants, labyrinthine streets, and beautiful historic districts. You’ll generally find better food here too, as well as lively nightlife in the evenings.

Overall, it’s a close call, but most couples will probably have a happier experience over in Croatia. The Croatian coastline is a dreamy honeymoon destination with its many resorts, but Slovenia can appeal if you and your partner want to do lots of nature-based activities.

Capturing Zagreb's coffee culture, this image features a street cafe where locals gather for a delightful cup. The convivial atmosphere reflects Zagreb's charm as a city that embraces the art of coffee enjoyment.

Backpackers can also have a super experience in either Croatia or Slovenia. Slovenia has the benefit of being more compact, making it a little cheaper and easier to get across the country and see everything you want to see. It’s also got that “off the beaten path” vibe, and it’s a fun place to meet and mingle with other travelers from far and wide.

With that said, Croatia is also a leading backpacking destination. More people speak English here, making it a little easier to ask for directions or help when you need it, and there are plenty of cheap places to stay along the coast or in Zagreb, along with a wider range of things to fill your days and nights.

Overall, it’s another close call in this category, but most backpackers will probably prefer Croatia, due to its broader range of activities and its more accessible nature.

Ljubljana's city center exudes romance with the graceful River Ljubljanica, the iconic Triple Bridge (Tromostovje), Preseren Square, and the timeless Franciscan Church of the Annunciation. Slovenia's heart, where Europe's charm blossoms.

Price is usually a key factor to consider when picking between two different countries or vacation destinations. However, in the case of Slovenia vs Croatia, there’s really not a huge difference between the two. Prices are quite similar for food, activities, and accommodation, so you won’t need to worry about one place being far more expensive than the other.

Budget: Hotel Grof in Slovenia epitomizes beauty with its elegant architecture and lush surroundings. Nestled amidst scenic landscapes, the hotel exudes charm, offering a haven of tranquility. Guests are enchanted by the picturesque views, luxurious ambiance, and the overall aesthetic allure, making it a captivating retreat for discerning travelers.

Luxury: Hotel Bohinj , Slovenia, is a sublime retreat immersed in nature’s splendor. Surrounded by the majestic Julian Alps, the hotel harmonizes with its breathtaking surroundings. Guests are enchanted by the tranquil ambiance, scenic vistas, and the timeless elegance that defines this haven, making it a captivating escape in the heart of Slovenia.

Budget: Rixos Premium Dubrovnik , Croatia, graces the coastline with elegance. Perched on the Adriatic, this luxurious haven offers unparalleled views of the azure sea. With sophisticated architecture and lavish amenities, the hotel seamlessly blends opulence and natural beauty, creating a mesmerizing retreat for those seeking the epitome of coastal luxury in Croatia.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Brioni Pula, A Radisson Collection Hotel , Croatia, stands as a timeless masterpiece on the Istrian coast. Surrounded by lush greenery and the Adriatic’s embrace, the hotel exudes elegance. Its majestic architecture and panoramic sea views create an enchanting ambiance, offering a haven of luxury and beauty on Croatia’s shores.

A panoramic aerial vista showcases the stunning blue Adriatic coast in Istria, Croatia. Rovinj's old town stands as a picturesque gem, blending seamlessly with the coastal beauty of the Adriatic.

Overall, choosing between Slovenia and Croatia all comes down to personal preferences. Those who love the outdoors and adore peaceful, pristine destinations will surely fall in love with Slovenia, while those looking for some of Europe’s best beaches, finest food, and most scenic cities will undoubtedly appreciate Croatia.

Of the two, Croatia is the best choice for most travelers. That’s simply because a bigger and more diverse place, with a longer list of places to visit and things to see. Whether you’re exploring a pretty city like Dubrovnik, relaxing on the beach, paddling in the water, or enjoying Zagreb’s museums and nightlife, you’re guaranteed to have a terrific time.

At the same time, Slovenia is still worth considering, especially if you happen to be a big fan of nature activities, like hiking long trails or roaming along the shores of majestic lakes. It’s also a very quiet and romantic place, ideal for those who just want to get away from it all for a few days or weeks.

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Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe.

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Hi and welcome to Wandering our World! This article was written by one of the Wandering our World team - a team of travel enthusiasts who live around the globe. View all posts by Wandering our World

10 Day Croatia & Slovenia

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  • View the Cathedral of Zagreb, with its soaring twin spires Explore Ljubljana, with its vast open-air market, Baroque Venetian inspired City Hall and Robba Fountain Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wonderland of 16 interconnecting lakes, flanked by waterfalls Marvel at the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a precious example of Roman architecture in Split Visit the Rector's palace, an outstanding blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture in Dubrovnik Tour the Franciscan Monastery, with its 14th century pharmacy, one of the oldest still-functioning pharmacies in Europe †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

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  • Flights New York-Zagreb, Dubrovnik-New York Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices Airline taxes & fuel surcharges 8 nights First Class accommodations
  • 2 nights Zagreb 2 nights Bled 1 night Plitvice Lakes 1 night Split 2 nights Dubrovnik Hotel taxes, fees & service charges Hotel porterage All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates† 13 meals: 8 breakfasts, 5 dinners Sightseeing per itinerary in modern air-conditioned motor coach Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout Services of local guides in all major cities Entrance fees per itinerary Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring

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10 Travel ‘Dupe’ Destinations That Will Save You Money on Your Next Trip

Posted: December 12, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

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Amid high inflation, the trend of searching for "dupes" -- duplicates of higher-end items -- has risen in popularity. This extends to everything from beauty products to designer goods to even vacation destinations . "Dupe" destinations can save travelers big money versus vacationing in a hotspot.

See: 8 Tips to Fly Business Class for the Price of Economy Be Aware: Don't Buy Airline Tickets at This Time of Day

"In 2024, Americans are more likely to choose hidden-gem destinations over tried-and-true tourist hotspots for their vacations," Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, told CNBC .

If you're planning ahead for travel in the new year, consider one of these travel "dupe" destinations to save serious cash .

<p>Lombok is an island in Indonesia for the adventurous. Trek to a waterfall in the midst of a jungle, go snorkeling or diving, or climb Mount Rinjani, an active volcano. When you’re done with your adventures, stop at Air Kalak Hot Springs to enjoy its medicinal properties.</p> <p>“For those looking for somewhere cheap, well, Lombok offers a broad choice of just about anything,” said James Cutajar, who runs <a href="https://thetraveldeck.com/">The Travel Deck</a>, a website focusing on Southeast Asia. “Hotels start at around $30 a night and food is just as affordable. For instance, fresh grilled fish including sides won’t set you back more than $10.”</p> <div class="listicle--slide"> <div class="listicle--slide--content"> <p><em><strong>Helpful: <a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/travel/top-10-best-travel-hacks-to-save-most-money/?utm_campaign=1145855&utm_source=msn.com&utm_content=9&utm_medium=rss">The Top 10 Best Travel Hacks To Save the Most Money</a></strong></em></p> </div> </div>

Instead of Bali, Indonesia, Visit Lombok, Indonesia

Travelers looking for beautiful beaches and stunning natural surroundings have flocked to Bali -- but this destination can get very expensive.

"Most people travel to Bali when visiting Indonesia [at] an average of $1,000 for a week's trip," said Alexandra Dubakova, travel expert and head of marketing at FreeTour.com . "Lombok is a great alternative that offers the same vibrant culture, attractive beaches and hiking trails, and [it] costs around $600 for a week's visit."

More: 11 Expensive Vacation Destinations That Will Be Cheaper in 2024 I'm a Luxury Travel Agent: 10 Destinations My Wealthy Clients Are Booking for 2024

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Instead of New York, Visit Montreal

Those looking for a city destination should skip NYC and head farther north.

"Visiting New York City comes with a hefty price -- $2,500 for a week's trip," Dubakova said. "Montreal offers a rich history, a great food scene and vibrant city life for almost half the price -- $1,500."

Check Out: 14 Affordable Christmas Getaways Under $100 a Day

<p>When you think of romantic European destinations, Paris is likely top of mind -- but it's far from the only option.</p> <p>"Paris, the City of Love, is a great choice but [it's] expensive," Dubakova said. "It costs around $2,000 to visit Pairs for a week, [while] Lisbon costs $1,200 and offers the same romantic aura and architectural beauty."</p>

Instead of Paris, Visit Lisbon, Portugal

When you think of romantic European destinations, Paris is likely top of mind -- but it's far from the only option.

"Paris, the City of Love, is a great choice but [it's] expensive," Dubakova said. "It costs around $2,000 to visit Pairs for a week, [while] Lisbon costs $1,200 and offers the same romantic aura and architectural beauty."

<p>Zanzibar City, also known as Stone Town, is recognized for its many buildings built from coral stone. This city is also a great inexpensive travel option for those planning a last-minute vacation.</p> <p>"Since almost everything is close by in the city, you'll be able to save money by avoiding using taxis or public transportation," said Jenny Ly, founder of Go Wanderly, a travel website that creates travel guides for locations around the world. </p> <p>Zanzibar's location alongside the Indian Ocean allows its guests to enjoy fresh fish, and they can also enjoy affordable lodging. You can find a hotel room in Zanzibar for under $200 per night, according to Trip Advisor, but guests can also consider staying at the many newly developed and affordable hostels across the island. </p>

Instead of Bora Bora, French Polynesia, Visit Zanzibar, Tanzania

Planning a honeymoon for 2024? Consider Zanzibar for an affordable destination.

"Bora Bora is renowned for its luxurious overwater bungalows and stunning blue waters," said Jim Campbell, CEO of Honeymoons.com . "Zanzibar offers a similar paradise with beautiful beaches, rich cultural history and exotic wildlife. The cost of a trip to Zanzibar can be up to 50% less than a trip to Bora Bora, making it an excellent choice for a romantic and adventurous honeymoon."

travel croatia and slovenia

Instead of Venice, Italy, Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia

Avoid the crowds -- and the hefty price tags -- by opting for Ljubljana over Venice.

"Venice is famous for its canals, historic architecture and romantic ambiance. Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, offers a similar charm with its picturesque waterways, vibrant cultural scene and less crowded streets," Campbell said. "Traveling to Ljubljana instead of Venice can save you about 30-40% on accommodation and dining."

<p>"While Palawan is a little more expensive than other islands in the Philippines, you can still have an amazing holiday on this island for only $50 per day," said Lena Mrowka, the travel blogger behind <a href="https://notanotherbackpacker.com/en/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Not Another Backpacker</a>.</p> <p>"This cost includes activities such as island hopping tours and transport to the most beautiful beaches on the island."</p> <p><strong><em>Take Our Poll: <a href="https://www.gobankingrates.com/saving-money/home/take-our-poll-are-you-struggling-to-keep-up-with-your-utility-bills/?utm_campaign=1189272&utm_source=msn.com&utm_content=5&utm_medium=rss">Are You Struggling To Keep Up With Your Utility Bills?</a></em></strong></p>

Instead of The Maldives, Visit Palawan, Philippines

If an island getaway is calling your name, consider booking a trip to Palawan.

"The Maldives is known for its stunning islands and luxury resorts. Palawan provides a similar tropical paradise with breathtaking lagoons, rich marine life and more affordable accommodation options," Campbell said. "Choosing Palawan over the Maldives can result in savings of about 40-50%."

Good To Know: 9 American Travel Brands to Stay Away From

<p>Jordan Morgan and his wife are expats who have been living abroad for eight years and specialize in personalized travel recommendations through their company, <a href="https://www.onarrival.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">On Arrival</a>. For an upcoming trip to Puglia, Italy, they took their own advice. </p> <p>"We are staying in a private villa, built in a traditional trullo," he said. "The villa is on its own private land with private swimming pool and nestled in an olive grove. It cost us just $293 per night -- so a weekly rate would be around $2,000 for lodging. This is a two-bedroom villa that could comfortably sleep four." </p>

Instead of Santorini, Greece, Visit Puglia, Italy

Puglia is one Italian destination that isn't yet overrun by tourists, so you can still book an affordable trip here. Conversely, Santorini has become increasingly pricey.

"Santorini is famous for its iconic white buildings and beautiful sunsets. Puglia offers a comparable Mediterranean charm with its beautiful coastlines, historic villages and delicious cuisine," Campbell said. "A [vacation] in Puglia can be up to 35% cheaper than one in Santorini."

<p>If Croatia is on your travel list, consider booking a trip to Cavtat over the more popular Dubrovnik.</p> <p>"Though not as publicized as Dubrovnik, Cavtat is an excellent alternative to this now overpriced Croatian destination," said Danielle Rudic, director of marketing at <a href="http://www.travelive.com/meet-the-team" rel="noreferrer noopener">Travelive</a>, a luxury destination management company. "You can find both four- and five-star properties, great traditional taverns [and a] more traditional feel, and you will not have to elbow through rivers of tourists holding a selfie-stick as you would in Dubrovnik." </p> <p>Hotels in Cavtat are $150 to $300 cheaper per night, and Dubrovnik is just a 20-minute drive away. "This price difference is also noticeable in restaurants and bars," Rudic said. "On average, you can expect to pay 30% less."</p>

Instead of Dubrovnik, Croatia, Visit Cavtat, Croatia

If Croatia is on your travel list, consider booking a trip to Cavtat over the more popular Dubrovnik.

"Though not as publicized as Dubrovnik, Cavtat is an excellent alternative to this now overpriced Croatian destination," said Danielle Rudic, director of marketing at Travelive , a luxury destination management company. "You can find both four- and five-star properties, great traditional taverns [and a] more traditional feel, and you will not have to elbow through rivers of tourists holding a selfie-stick as you would in Dubrovnik."

Hotels in Cavtat are $150 to $300 cheaper per night, and Dubrovnik is just a 20-minute drive away. "This price difference is also noticeable in restaurants and bars," Rudic said. "On average, you can expect to pay 30% less."

<p>Kyoto is a popular Asian destination, but you'll find much better prices elsewhere.</p> <p>"Kyoto is famous for its historic temples, gardens and traditional teahouses. However, a trip here can be quite costly, with hotels averaging $120 per night and meals around $30 per person," said Augustinas Milaknis, head of PR at <a href="https://www.ratepunk.com/" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ratepunk</a>, a travel booking app. </p> <p>"Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is a delightful alternative with its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets and rich history," he said. "Accommodations in Hoi An can be as low as $50 per night, and a delicious meal can cost around $15 per person."</p>

Instead of Kyoto, Japan, Visit Hoi An, Vietnam

Kyoto is a popular Asian destination, but you'll find much better prices elsewhere.

"Kyoto is famous for its historic temples, gardens and traditional teahouses. However, a trip here can be quite costly, with hotels averaging $120 per night and meals around $30 per person," said Augustinas Milaknis, head of PR at Ratepunk , a travel booking app.

"Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is a delightful alternative with its well-preserved Ancient Town, lantern-lit streets and rich history," he said. "Accommodations in Hoi An can be as low as $50 per night, and a delicious meal can cost around $15 per person."

travel croatia and slovenia

Instead of Napa, California, Visit Sonoma, California

Even though these two wine country destinations are located close by, the prices can be worlds apart.

"They're comparable due to them literally being right next door to each other and offering many of the same amenities," said Jared Benoff, founder of Vacationeeze , a family-owned travel agency.

"You have to look a little closer to see some key differences between the two charming regions," he said. "For example, the Bardessono in Yountville, Napa will be approximately $1,500 per night while the Madrona, recently named one of the best in the world by Travel + Leisure, will be about $690 per night. People visiting Sonoma will also find generally more affordable wine-tasting fees and dining options."

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COMMENTS

  1. Slovenia & Croatia Itinerary: Where to Go in Slovenia and Croatia by

    Rick's Best Two-Week Croatia/Slovenia Trip (by Car) Day 1: Arrive at Ljubljana's airport, take shuttle bus to Lake Bled (sleep in Lake Bled) Day 3: Pick up car, drive through Julian Alps, end in Ljubljana (sleep in Ljubljana) Day 5: Drive through the Karst and Piran to Rovinj (sleep in Rovinj) Day 6: Rovinj with possible side trip to Opatija ...

  2. The Best 10 Days In Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary

    Day 4: Drive To Split. On day 4 of your 10 days in Croatia and Slovenia, drive to Split. There's nothing much worth seeing between Dubrovnik and Split besides the lovely coastline. But if you take the modern highway, you'll have the fastest route. The drive from Dubrovnik to Split is approximately 3.5 hours.

  3. Best of Croatia and Slovenia Tour 2024

    Book your 2024 Croatia and Slovenia tour with confidence. Free 3 day booking hold and flexible changes. Explore Zagreb, Sarajevo and Dubrovnik with Trafalgar. ... MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences. Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development ...

  4. Best Time to Go to Croatia & Slovenia by Rick Steves

    Tourist traffic in Slovenia and Croatia (especially the coastal towns) is extremely seasonal. The peak season hits suddenly and floods the towns like a tidal wave, only to recede a couple months later — leaving empty streets and dazed locals. In general, the tourist season runs roughly from mid-May through early October, peaking in early August.

  5. Best 10 to 14 days in Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary

    Day 1 - 2: Arrival in Zagreb Croatia, and explore. Day 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park day trip. Day 4 - 5: Ljubljana and Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle (or Lake Bled) Day 6 - 7: Travel to Split. Day 8 - 10: Dubrovnik (with a day trip to nearby Elafiti Islands) Experience the best of Croatia and Slovenia in 10 days.

  6. 10 Best Croatia and Slovenia Tours & Trips 2024/2025

    Croatia and Slovenia Tours & Trips. Find the right adventure for you through Croatia and Slovenia. We've got 107 tours going to Croatia and Slovenia, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 21 days. The most popular month to go is May, which has the highest number of tour departures.

  7. The Perfect 2 Week Slovenia and Croatia Itinerary

    If you'd like to explore the islands in detail, denied to most day trippers, connect the two cities with a short Croatia cruise. For a completely different take on Slovenia and Croatia travel, Goway's Flavours of Northern Croatia and Slovenia trip diverts to the Istrian Peninsula for spectacular scenery, with visits to Lake Bled and the ...

  8. Croatia & Slovenia Itinerary in 10 days

    Croatia & Slovenia Itinerary. Day 1-2: Explore Dubrovnik. Day 3: Day Trip to Kotor Montenegro. Day 4: Drive To Split & explore Split. Day 5: Split: Island Hopping Tour. Day 6: Day Trip To Mostar. Day 7: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park driving to Ljubljana. Day 8: Explore Ljubljana.

  9. Croatia and Slovenia Itinerary: 9 Days of Epic Hikes, Food, and Wine

    To make this Croatia & Slovenia itinerary work, we booked 2 long haul segments with American Airlines: United States to London Heathrow Airport and vice versa. Then we took regional airlines to Zagreb and from Ljubljana. Croatia Airlines. 8 pm flight from London Heathrow Airport. Arrived in Zagreb at 11:15 pm.

  10. Two-week Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary

    Plitvice Park - 3 days. It's time to leave the port cities (for now) and go straight to waterfall bliss. Plitvice Park is one of Croatia's most famous destinations. Of course, it was included in your Slovenia-Croatia travel itinerary. If you are a waterfall chaser and lover like me, Plitvice Lakes will be heaven for you, this I can assure you.

  11. 10 days in Croatia + Slovenia road trip itinerary

    Here are the full details of my Croatia + Slovenia road trip itinerary. Itinerary map guide: 1 - Zagreb (Croatia) 2 - Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia) 3 - Rovinj (Croatia) ... Europe Slovenia Winter Travel. Things to do at Lake Bohinj in winter. 20/11/2020. Leave a reply Cancel reply. Your email address will not be published ...

  12. Best 10 Day Itinerary For Croatia and Slovenia

    Day 1: Arrival in Zagreb. Welcome to the beautiful city of Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. Upon arrival at Zagreb International Airport, make your way to your accommodation to check-in and freshen up. Zagreb is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich history and a charming blend of medieval and modern architecture.

  13. 18 things to know before going to Croatia

    Most are marked with FKK - the German phrase "Frei-Körper-Kultur," meaning free body culture - which isn't surprising as Germans make up some of the biggest numbers of tourists in Croatia. Away from the FKK beaches, topless bathing is quite common. 8. Dodge the crowds in Dubrovnik by timing your visit carefully.

  14. Exploring Croatia and Slovenia: The Ultimate Balkan Journey

    The journey time varies depending on the route and stops, but it typically takes 2.5 hours to get from one capital to the other. One of the most flexible ways to travel between Croatia and Slovenia is by car. Both countries are well-connected by highways, making road trips a popular choice. The journey can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours ...

  15. Croatia & Slovenia Tour Packages 2024 & 2025

    Our Slovenia and Croatia travel packages start from around $300 per person per day. The largest element is often accommodation, but private full day tours can increase the cost. All our sample itineraries have a price guide function to give you an idea of the cost for different levels of accommodation, month of travel and number of travelers.

  16. Croatia & Slovenia

    Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today. My Wishlist My Booking 1 800 970 7299 ... Discover Zagreb and Ljubljana, capitals of Croatia and Slovenia and relax in their extensive green spaces, find hidden spots and experience the lively culture with your free time.

  17. Croatia & Slovenia

    We took the 13 Day Affordable Croatia & Slovenia with Venice and we had a great time. Our tour manager in Croatia & Slovenia, Primoz , was outstanding and fun! Our tour manager in Venice, Arianna , was excellent. She showed her city with pride and love. We walked the tiny streets with her and she pointed out interesting things in detail.

  18. Croatia & Slovenia Travel Guide

    Like most countries in Europe, Croatia and Slovenia's tipping policies are usually at your own discretion and not a requirement. In Croatia, it's typical to leave a tip of around 10-15% of your final bill at restaurants if you've received good service and are happy with your meal. Tipping is not obligatory in Slovenia, however a 10-20% ...

  19. Pearls of Croatia and Slovenia

    Day 3 — Zagreb. Begin the day with a tour of Croatia's gracious capital city. Stroll through the Old Town and experience the lively bustle of the Dolac open-air market, where vendors sell fresh produce and local handicrafts such as baskets and lace.Continue to the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art, home to over 1,900 pieces of artwork by naïve artists, including paintings, prints, and sculptures.

  20. Croatia & Slovenia (7 destinations) by Intrepid Travel ...

    Start in Split and end in Bled! With the Explorer tour Croatia & Slovenia (7 destinations), you have a 8 days tour package taking you through Split, Croatia and 6 other destinations in Europe. Croatia & Slovenia (7 destinations) includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more. Expand All.

  21. 10 Day Croatia & Slovenia

    Explore Ljubljana, with its vast open-air market, Baroque Venetian inspired City Hall and Robba Fountain. Tour the imposing 11th century Bled Castle, perched on a steep cliff high above the lake. Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wonderland of 16 interconnecting lakes, flanked by waterfalls. Marvel at the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a ...

  22. Slovenia vs Croatia: An Honest Comparison To Help You Choose

    Croatia's coastline is much, much longer, with many more miles of soft sands, glistening waters, and wonderful views. In contrast, Slovenia has only a small section of coastline and a much more restricted range of beaches to visit. In Croatia, the list of coastal gems goes on and on.

  23. 10 Day Croatia & Slovenia by Gate 1 Travel

    Highlights. View the Cathedral of Zagreb, with its soaring twin spires Explore Ljubljana, with its vast open-air market, Baroque Venetian inspired City Hall and Robba Fountain Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a wonderland of 16 interconnecting lakes, flanked by waterfalls Marvel at the impressive Diocletian's Palace, a precious example of Roman architecture in Split Visit the Rector's ...

  24. 10 Travel 'Dupe' Destinations That Will Save You Money on ...

    Instead of Venice, Italy, Visit Ljubljana, Slovenia. Avoid the crowds -- and the hefty price tags -- by opting for Ljubljana over Venice. ... If Croatia is on your travel list, consider booking a ...

  25. Croatia Wants Bosnia to Strengthen Visa Regulations to Cut Migrant Flow

    Croatia, Slovenia and Italy's common goal is to replace internal border controls with another cooperation mechanism by the start of the tourist season, Croatian Interior Minister Davor Bozinovic ...