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10-Day Spring Journey Through Dubrovnik and Split
Explore the stunning Adriatic coast from historic Dubrovnik to vibrant Split with perfect springtime weather and captivating sights.
10-Day Spring Journey Through Dubrovnik and Split
Explore the stunning Adriatic coast from historic Dubrovnik to vibrant Split with perfect springtime weather and captivating sights.
Before Day 1: Book a FREE walking tour
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
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I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Croatia, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
Walls of Dubrovnik
Walk the iconic ancient city walls starting at the Pile Gate entrance on the western side of the Old Town, enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic and the orange rooftops.
Walls of Dubrovnik
Walk the iconic ancient city walls starting at the Pile Gate entrance on the western side of the Old Town, enjoy panoramic views of the Adriatic and the orange rooftops.
Stradun
Stroll down Stradun, the main marble-paved street in Old Town, browse boutique shops and coffee bars, and spot the clock tower and baroque churches.
Stradun
Stroll down Stradun, the main marble-paved street in Old Town, browse boutique shops and coffee bars, and spot the clock tower and baroque churches.
Rector's Palace
Visit the historic Rector's Palace facing the Luža Square, learn about Dubrovnik's maritime Republic history, and explore the cultural exhibitions inside.
Rector's Palace
Visit the historic Rector's Palace facing the Luža Square, learn about Dubrovnik's maritime Republic history, and explore the cultural exhibitions inside.
~2 hours
Head toward Buža Gate and the nearby cliffside restaurants along the Adriatic to enjoy freshly grilled fish, calamari, and local shellfish with sunset views.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Find a local bakery inside Old Town near Pile Gate and try a Rafioli, a sweet almond-filled pastry dusted with powdered sugar, paired with Croatian coffee.
Rafioli
Look for a casual konoba (traditional tavern) on or near Stradun to taste Soparnik, a thin chard and garlic pie from the Dalmatian hinterland, perfect with a fresh salad.
SoparnikStaying within the Old Town puts you close to major sights and dining options on Day 1.
Fort Lovrijenac
Visit Fort Lovrijenac early morning to avoid crowds. It's located just outside the western walls of Dubrovnik's Old Town, offering striking sea views and historic artillery displays.
Fort Lovrijenac
Visit Fort Lovrijenac early morning to avoid crowds. It's located just outside the western walls of Dubrovnik's Old Town, offering striking sea views and historic artillery displays.
~3 hours
Take the cable car up Mount Srđ in the afternoon for panoramic views of Dubrovnik and the Adriatic Sea. The cable car station is near Pile Gate western entrance to the city.
~2 hours
In the evening, explore bars in the Ploče neighborhood east of Old Town. Look for places with local wines or rakija, Croatia’s traditional fruit brandy.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a seaside restaurant along the Lapad waterfront and order Crni rižot, a traditional black squid ink risotto rich in seafood flavor.
Crni rižotFind a cozy tavern in Ploče and order Soparnik, a local Dalmatian chard pie, accompanied by a glass of homemade Pelinkovac herbal liqueur.
SoparnikClose to Fort Lovrijenac and cable car station for Mount Srđ, perfect for exploring Day 2 sights.
Lokrum Island
Take a water taxi from the Old Town harbor to Lokrum Island early morning to avoid crowds. Explore the botanical gardens and the Fort Royal with panoramic views of Dubrovnik.
Lokrum Island
Take a water taxi from the Old Town harbor to Lokrum Island early morning to avoid crowds. Explore the botanical gardens and the Fort Royal with panoramic views of Dubrovnik.
Banje Beach
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Banje Beach near Dubrovnik's Old Town. Relax on the pebbly beach or rent a paddleboard to enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
Banje Beach
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Banje Beach near Dubrovnik's Old Town. Relax on the pebbly beach or rent a paddleboard to enjoy the Adriatic Sea.
~2 hours
Find a cozy wine bar in Dubrovnik's Old Town and sample a selection of Croatian wines including Plavac Mali and Pošip paired with local cheese and olives.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Seek out a wine bar in the Old Town and order a tasting platter with local Croatian cheeses, olives, and a glass of Plavac Mali red wine.
RakijaStaying here keeps you close to the harbor for Lokrum Island and the best access to dining and beach areas.
Franciscan Monastery and Old Pharmacy
This site is in the Old Town, an easy walk from the main city gate. Visit early to avoid crowds and see the pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe, still preserving centuries-old medicinal artifacts.
Franciscan Monastery and Old Pharmacy
This site is in the Old Town, an easy walk from the main city gate. Visit early to avoid crowds and see the pharmacy, one of the oldest in Europe, still preserving centuries-old medicinal artifacts.
Sponza Palace
Head to the Old Town center to find this palace near Luža Square. It's known for its Gothic-Renaissance architecture and historic archives, so take time to explore its courtyard and nearby alleyways.
Sponza Palace
Head to the Old Town center to find this palace near Luža Square. It's known for its Gothic-Renaissance architecture and historic archives, so take time to explore its courtyard and nearby alleyways.
Minceta Tower
Walk up to this fortress tower on Dubrovnik’s city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic and Old Town rooftops. Access from the north side; wear comfortable shoes as the climb is partly steep.
Minceta Tower
Walk up to this fortress tower on Dubrovnik’s city walls for panoramic views of the Adriatic and Old Town rooftops. Access from the north side; wear comfortable shoes as the climb is partly steep.
~1 hours
Explore streets south of Stradun and pick a gelateria with homemade flavors. Try unique options like fig or lavender if available to experience something local.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a Dalmatian konoba (tavern) in the Old Town and order Pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew served with gnocchi or polenta, a true Dalmatian specialty.
PašticadaStaying here places you within walking distance to all main cultural sites on Day 4 and great evening dining options.
~2 hours
Explore Split's Green Market located near the Old Town, where you'll find fresh produce, local crafts, and vibrant stalls. Look for fresh fruits and local snacks to try while walking.
~3 hours
Take a scenic bus or ferry from Dubrovnik to Split, enjoying coastal views along the Adriatic. Book tickets in advance during spring for the best prices and schedules.
Explore Riva
Stroll along Split's Riva promenade, a lively waterfront area with cafes and street performers. Focus on the section near the Old Town for a charming blend of culture and relaxation.
Explore Riva
Stroll along Split's Riva promenade, a lively waterfront area with cafes and street performers. Focus on the section near the Old Town for a charming blend of culture and relaxation.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a café in the Old Town offering Crni rižot, a traditional black squid ink risotto that is a local specialty in Split.
Crni rižot
Choose a seafood restaurant on the Riva promenade and order fresh grilled fish with seasonal vegetables, followed by a glass of Maraschino, a local cherry liqueur.
MaraschinoStaying here keeps you close to key sites like the Green Market and Riva for easy exploration on foot.
Walk from the Old Town to the Ancient Roman Splendor sites in Split, such as Diocletian's Palace; no transport booking necessary.
Diocletian's Palace
Explore the vast Diocletian's Palace complex starting from the entrance at the Golden Gate in Split's Old Town. Look for the ruins and cellars beneath the palace for deep historic insight.
Diocletian's Palace
Explore the vast Diocletian's Palace complex starting from the entrance at the Golden Gate in Split's Old Town. Look for the ruins and cellars beneath the palace for deep historic insight.
Peristyle
Spend an hour in the Peristyle, the central square of Diocletian's Palace, to admire ancient Roman architecture and watch the midday cultural performances that often take place here.
Peristyle
Spend an hour in the Peristyle, the central square of Diocletian's Palace, to admire ancient Roman architecture and watch the midday cultural performances that often take place here.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius right near the Peristyle. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the Old Town and harbor.
Cathedral of Saint Domnius
Visit the Cathedral of Saint Domnius right near the Peristyle. Climb the bell tower for panoramic views of the Old Town and harbor.
~2 hours
Choose a traditional konoba in the Varos neighborhood, known for authentic Dalmatian dishes. Order slow-cooked Pašticada with gnocchi, a regional specialty.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a casual bistro in the Old Town and order Crni rižot, the famous Dalmatian black risotto made with cuttlefish ink, for a filling traditional meal.
Crni rižotSeek a traditional konoba in the Varos neighborhood and try Pašticada, a slow-cooked beef stew with gnocchi, accompanied by homemade Rakija, a fruit brandy.
PašticadaStaying in Varos places you close to the Palace and traditional dining options for this day.
~3 hours
Start your day with a hike around Marjan Hill in the Sustipan area. Follow the marked trails through the forest park for panoramic views of Split and nearby islands.
Bačvice Beach
Head to Bačvice Beach near the city center for some sunbathing or a swim. It's popular for its shallow sandy shore and vibrant atmosphere, within walking distance from Split's Old Town.
Bačvice Beach
Head to Bačvice Beach near the city center for some sunbathing or a swim. It's popular for its shallow sandy shore and vibrant atmosphere, within walking distance from Split's Old Town.
~2 hours
Look for a rooftop bar in Split's Old Town or near the Riva promenade for sunset drinks. Many offer views of the harbor and nearby hills.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a seaside eatery near Bačvice Beach and order crni rižot, black risotto made with cuttlefish ink and seafood.
Crni rižot
Find a rooftop restaurant with views and try peka, a traditional Croatian slow-cooked meat and vegetable dish.
PekaThis area offers proximity to nature and easy access to Split's city center and beaches.
Green Market
Explore the vibrant Green Market in Split's Old Town near Diocletian's Palace for fresh local produce, flowers, and street snacks. Arrive early to see the most variety and authentic local interactions.
Green Market
Explore the vibrant Green Market in Split's Old Town near Diocletian's Palace for fresh local produce, flowers, and street snacks. Arrive early to see the most variety and authentic local interactions.
People's Square
Stroll to People's Square (Pjaca) nearby, a charming Renaissance-style square with cafes and shops. Look for the clock tower and enjoy the lively ambiance of this central spot in the Old Town.
People's Square
Stroll to People's Square (Pjaca) nearby, a charming Renaissance-style square with cafes and shops. Look for the clock tower and enjoy the lively ambiance of this central spot in the Old Town.
Archaeological Museum Split
Visit the Archaeological Museum Split located in the city center, which features an extensive collection of Roman artifacts and historical objects. It's a quiet cultural escape with informative exhibits about the Dalmatian region.
Archaeological Museum Split
Visit the Archaeological Museum Split located in the city center, which features an extensive collection of Roman artifacts and historical objects. It's a quiet cultural escape with informative exhibits about the Dalmatian region.
~2 hours
Find a well-reviewed seafood restaurant along the Riva promenade or the Old Town’s harbor edge and order a tasting platter including fresh Adriatic seafood like oysters, squid, and shrimp.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Find a local bakery around the Old Town and try a pastry called Krostule, which are sweet fried dough strips dusted with powdered sugar, paired with a strong Croatian coffee.
KrostuleLook for a casual Dalmatian konoba (tavern) near People's Square and try Soparnik, a traditional Dalmatian savory chard-filled pastry often eaten as a light lunch.
SoparnikStaying in Old Town puts you in walking distance to most sites including the Green Market, People's Square, and the harbor area where you can enjoy evening dining.
Statue of Gregory of Nin
Located near the entrance of the Old Town of Split, this iconic statue is best visited early morning to avoid crowds. Take time to rub the big toe for good luck and explore the surrounding Peristyle square for a feel of Roman history.
Statue of Gregory of Nin
Located near the entrance of the Old Town of Split, this iconic statue is best visited early morning to avoid crowds. Take time to rub the big toe for good luck and explore the surrounding Peristyle square for a feel of Roman history.
~2 hours
Head to the Veli Varos neighborhood, known for its creative vibe and galleries. Look for contemporary Croatian artists and small exhibits blending modern with traditional Dalmatian themes.
~3 hours
In the evening, explore the heart of Split's nightlife around the Riva promenade. Look for intimate jazz spots offering live music where locals and travelers mingle.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Look for a Dalmatian konoba in the Old Town and order Crni rižot, a traditional black squid ink risotto rich in flavor.
Crni rižotFind a cozy restaurant by the harbor offering fresh seafood and try grilled octopus with a side of local greens. Finish with Maraschino liqueur, a Split specialty.
MaraschinoStaying here puts you within easy walking distance to the Statue of Gregory of Nin, art galleries, and lively evening spots.
~1.5 hours
Look for a bakery in the Old Town close to Stradun where you can try fresh pastries like krostule, a crispy and sweet fried dough treat.
~2 hours
Spend time at Gradac Park, a peaceful spot on a hill above the Old Town with benches and shade, perfect for unwinding before your trip home.
~1.5 hours
Take a taxi using the Bolt or Uber app for a quick and hassle-free ride to Dubrovnik Airport; it's about a 20-minute drive from the city center.
Meals
Recommended traditional local cuisine
Find a local bakery near Stradun and try krostule, a sweet fried dough specialty, paired with a strong Croatian coffee.
KrostuleFind a restaurant with a terrace in the Old Town and order Pašticada, a traditional Dalmatian beef stew served with gnocchi.
PašticadaStaying in the Old Town keeps you close to breakfast spots and parks and offers easy access to the airport taxi rides.
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Budget Breakdown
Accommodation: $66 (average hotel per night). Food: $11 (mix of restaurant meals and street food). Transport: $6 (local buses, taxis, and occasional ferries). Activities: $15 (tours, entrance fees, and local experiences).
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