Croatia is one of those destinations that completely exceeded my expectations. From the historic streets of Split to the sparkling waters surrounding Hvar, every day felt like something out of a postcard. Before you dive into my printable itinerary, here are the biggest lessons I learned and the tips I wish I’d known before arriving.
1. DO: Pack Light
Those charming cobblestone streets are beautiful…until you’re dragging a 50-pound suitcase over them. Stick to a carry-on if you can, or at least pack lighter than you think you’ll need.
2. DON’T: Assume Your Airbnb Is Accessible by Car
This was probably the biggest surprise of our trip. Many accommodations in Hvar’s Old Town can’t be reached by taxi because the streets are pedestrian-only. Before you arrive, ask your host where the nearest drop-off point is and how far you’ll be walking with luggage.
Pro Tip: Many hosts can arrange luggage transport from the ferry to your Airbnb. It’s worth every euro.
3. DO: Carry Euros
While many restaurants and shops accept credit cards, plenty of smaller businesses, beach bars, bakeries, taxis, and family-owned restaurants still prefer cash. Some even offer a discount for paying in euros instead of using a card!
4. DON’T: Wait Until You Need Cash
Avoid scrambling to find an ATM right before dinner. Withdraw euros from a bank ATM early in your trip, and choose to be charged in euros, not your home currency, to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
5. DO: Leave Room to Wander
Some of our favorite restaurants, boutiques, and hidden alleyways weren’t on any itinerary. Split and Hvar are made for wandering, so don’t schedule every minute of your day.
6. DON’T: Rush Through Both Cities
It can be tempting to cram everything into one trip, but Croatia is best enjoyed at a slower pace. Long dinners, waterfront walks, afternoon swims, and sunset cocktails ended up being some of my favorite memories.
7. DO: Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking far more than you expect. Between the stone streets, stairs, and hills in Hvar, comfortable sandals or sneakers will quickly become your best friend.
8. DON’T: Forget Water Shoes
Most beaches around Split and Hvar are rocky instead of sandy. Water shoes make getting in and out of the Adriatic much easier and much more comfortable.
9. DO: Plan at Least One Boat Day
If you’re visiting Hvar, don’t skip getting out on the water. Whether you charter a private boat or join a group excursion, seeing the Pakleni Islands and hidden swimming coves from the sea was one of the absolute highlights of our trip.
10. DON’T: Overlook the Local Food
Croatia has some of the freshest seafood I’ve ever had. Order the grilled fish. Try the octopus salad. Split a bottle of Croatian wine. Slow down and enjoy dinner – it isn’t just a meal here, it’s part of the experience.
If I could leave you with one piece of advice, it’s this: don’t try to see everything! Croatia isn’t a destination meant to be rushed. The best moments often happen between the plans: wandering down a quiet alley, finding a hidden café, watching the sunset over the Adriatic, or lingering over dinner long after the plates have been cleared.
I hope my itinerary helps you make the most of your trip…and fall in love with Croatia the way I did!
Xo,
Ana B
Print out my Itinerary here!
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