When I started researching our trip to Croatia, I kept finding town after town that we absolutely had to visit. It became apparent pretty quickly that, since we didn’t have three months to explore the country, I’d need to whittle down the “must-see” list. Ultimately, I came up with the Croatia and Slovenia itinerary below—and it worked out wonderfully.
Rovinj completely charmed me and ended up being my favorite stop. Hvar was just as effortlessly cool and vibrant as I imagined. Even though Ljubljana was added just because it was the destination of our departure airport, turned out to be the unexpected beauty I absolutely fell in love with.
This ended up being one of the best trips we’ve ever taken, and we’re already planning to go back next September to explore more.
Snapshot Itinerary & Route Map
DAY
Day 1-4
Day 4-8
Day 8-9
Day 9-11
Day 11-14
Day 14-16
DESTINATION
Dubrovnik
Hvar
Split
Plitvice
Rovinj
Ljubljana
HIGHLIGHTS
Old town, Jet Ski Safari, Yacht Day
Old Town, Korcula, Boat Rental
Diocletian’s Palace, Food Tour
Plitvice National Park
Istria Tour, Pula
Old Town, Lake Bled
Day 1: DUBROVNIK
Accommodations:
Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik is a beautiful, modern boutique hotel built into the cliffs overlooking the sea. The views are incredible, and the atmosphere is peaceful and relaxing. There’s a small private beach you can reach by elevator, a few good dining options on-site, and it’s just a short walk to Dubrovnik’s Old Town—close to everything, but far enough to feel like a quiet retreat.
Hotel Points Options:
Our stay at the Sheraton Dubrovnik Riviera Hotel was great. The huge pool was perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring, and we really enjoyed the waterfront restaurants just steps away from the hotel. The setting felt quiet and peaceful, which was exactly what we wanted.
You do need to take an Uber to get into Old Town, but the ride is quick and easy. For us, the resort-style vibe made it worth it—we wanted a spot where we could unwind, and this was perfect.
Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik is just a few minutes’ walk from the entrance to Old Town, which makes it a super convenient place to stay if you want to be close to the city’s main sights. The building has a historic feel with lots of character and the rooms are modern and comfortable. There’s a small indoor pool, a gym, and a nice terrace where you can grab a drink or a meal. If you’re a Hilton member or just prefer staying with a familiar brand, this is a solid option in a great location. Typical award nights at the Hilton Imperial Dubrovnik cost around 70,000 Hilton Honors points during the busy summer season.
Getting around in Dubrovnik:
Since we were heading to Hvar after our stay in Dubrovnik, we decided not to rent a car until later in the trip. For the arrival, we pre-booked an airport transfer from Dubrovnik Airport to our hotel with Dubrovnik Transfers, which worked out great—they were waiting when we landed. The cost is about €30 if you’re staying in Mlini and around €50 for the Dubrovnik Old Town area.
While in Dubrovnik, we mostly used Uber and local taxis for getting around the city. Both were easy to find and very convenient for short trips.
What to do:
After settling into our room, we went to explore the “pearl of the Adriatic,” old town Dubrovnik. It is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The streets of the old town feel like you’ve stepped back in time, although it is amazingly well preserved. Don’t miss walking the city walls to get a bird’s eye view of this amazing ancient city. If you plan to do a bit of shopping, this is a good place to pick up gifts and souvenirs.
Other highlights include the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace, and the Franciscan Monastery. They’re full of history and definitely make for some great exploring.
Dinner:
For pre-dinner sundowners, we loved Cave Bar More, which features live music, gorgeous views, and a laid-back vibe. The bar is built into a natural cave at the water’s edge, and just outside, you’ll find rocky platforms and ladders leading into the water. A couple actually got up, jumped in the water and started to swim! Apparently, it’s popular for a quick dip, though it’s not a sandy beach—it’s more of a cliffside swim spot with crystal-clear water.
For dinner, walk upstairs to Restaurant Tramuntana, or for a more casual option, enjoy some pizza or one of the amazing hamburgers at TuttoBene Pizzeria & Burger Bar.
Day 2: DUBROVNIK
What to do:
I highly recommend this jet ski safari tour! We had an amazing time speeding across the water, exploring hidden caves, and discovering remote beaches along the way. A two-hour ride costs around €400 for up to two people. Unfortunately, Brian wasn’t feeling well that day, so he had to sit this one out—hopefully next time he can join the fun!
Dinner:
Dinner at Restaurant Panorama is a don’t-miss evening out while in Dubrovnik. To get there, take the scenic gondola ride up to Mount Srd and enjoy stunning views of Old Town, the Elaphite Islands, and the island of Lokrum. Watching the sunset from there while enjoying dinner was unforgettable. I booked our table about three months in advance and managed to get the best spot in the house—those views really do steal the show.
The round-trip gondola ride is around €15 per person. If you want, you can take the gondola up and then grab a taxi back down afterward—either way, it’s a pretty easy trip.
Day 3: DUBROVNIK
What to do:
Spend the day in Montenegro. Whether you rent a car for the day and drive or book a private tour, a trip to Montenegro is well worth it. Admire the beautiful Bay of Kotor, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site. Wander around this idyllic seaside town and then take a boat ride around the bay and see the lovely “Our Lady of the Rocks” church. If there’s time, stop and visit the charming town of Perast.
Lunch:
For fresh, delicious seafood, Konoba Scala Santa is a winner. You can’t go wrong with their catch of the day.
Dinner:
After getting back to Dubrovnik, grab dinner just outside the Pile Gate—the main entrance to Old Town—at Dubravka 1836. Honestly, the service here was the best we had the entire trip, and the food did not disappoint. After dinner, they surprised us with their specialty dessert cocktail: lemon sorbet topped with vodka and champagne. It was so delicious that we’ve made it ourselves a few times since getting home!
Definitely make reservations if you want to go, especially during the busy season.
Day 4: DUBROVNIK
What to do:
A yacht day with Dubrovnik Yachts is an absolute blast. We cruised around Lopud and the Elaphite islands, swam in the Green Cave, and stopped off several times to swim and snorkel. For lunch, our captain took us to a small village where we enjoyed an incredible meal at a family-run restaurant—I wish I had jotted down the name because that fish was some of the best I’ve ever tasted: fresh and absolutely delicious.
They were pulling fresh conch right out of the water, and Phil was the only one brave enough to try it. To cap off the day, the captain floored the boat, cranked up the music, and we sped across the clear blue Adriatic—pure magic. Without a doubt, this was my favorite day in Dubrovnik.
After a full day on the water, everyone was pretty tired, so we headed back to our hotels, ordered room service, and called it an early night.
Day 5: HVAR
After soaking up all the charm and beauty of Dubrovnik for a few days, we were really looking forward to the next leg of our trip — the stunning island of Hvar.
Getting There:
Take the ferry to Hvar. It’s around 3.5 hours and there are typically three journeys per day in high season. The boats can get quite full, so I’d recommend purchasing tickets a few weeks in advance if possible. Expect to pay around €50 per person for a one-way fare.
Accommodation:
The four of us absolutely fell in love with this beautiful villa located right in the heart of Hvar’s Old Town. With three bedrooms, a spacious courtyard, and elegant decor, it was the perfect home base for our stay. Ultimately, the location couldn’t have been better. Just steps from everything, yet surprisingly peaceful at night. One evening, we had planned to eat at the restaurant next door to the villa, but it was fully booked. To our surprise, they offered to serve us in our own courtyard instead. They brought over everything—plates, wine, and the full menu. It was such a memorable and personal experience. You can read my full review of the villa here.
If you’re traveling as a couple or prefer a hotel experience, Palace Elisabeth is an excellent option. This historic five-star hotel is one of the most luxurious places to stay on the island. Overlooking the harbor and main square, it offers beautifully restored rooms with a mix of classic charm and modern comfort. They have a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and a restaurant terrace with gorgeous sea views. It’s a refined, romantic choice with top-notch service in a prime location.
What to do:
On our first day, we spent the remainder of the afternoon exploring the charming streets of Hvar’s Old Town. We stopped for a visit at the lovely Cathedral of St. Stephen, located in the main square, along with the nearby Benedictine Monastery, Arsenal, and theatre—one of the oldest public theaters in Europe.
If you’re up for a bit of a climb, definitely hike up to the Fortress. The walk itself is scenic, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Hvar’s terracotta rooftops, the harbor, and the Pakleni Islands in the distance. It’s a perfect spot for photos—and a peaceful place to sit back and soak it all in.
Dinner:
Hvar is full of excellent dining spots, but Bunar stands out as one of the best. Tucked away in Old Town, it has a cozy outdoor setting, warm hospitality, and seriously good food. I highly recommend the grilled sea bass—fresh and perfectly seasoned. Brian went for the veal tomahawk, and he said it was absolutely perfect.
Just a heads up—you’ll definitely want to make a reservation here. It’s a favorite for good reason!
Day 6: HVAR
What to do:
Today Danette and Phil opted to stay in Hvar, while Brian and I took a day trip to Korcula, a 1.5-hour ferry ride from Hvar (round-trip fare is approx. $60 USD). It is the sixth largest Adriatic Island, and the second most populated in Croatia. Korcula sort of feels like Hvar’s sophisticated older sister. It’s a bit quieter and more refined.
We spent a couple hours wandering the narrow streets in the Old Town. With its medieval stone buildings, charming piazzas, and seaside views, it’s easy to get swept up in the relaxed pace and beauty of the island.
I did some souvenir shopping in the local shops, then we enjoyed a couple of appetizers and a glass of Croatian wine along the lovely waterfront.
We didn’t have time for a wine tour this trip, but it’s definitely on the list for next time. Korcula is famous for its native grape varieties like Grk and Posip and the vineyards look incredible—rolling hills with views of the bays and neighboring islands.
If you plan to do a tour, just make sure your guide is aware of the ferry schedule. The last ferry usually leaves around 6pm, so plan accordingly.
Dinner:
Once back in Hvar, grab a casual dinner at Hvar Brewing Company. It’s the perfect spot if you’re into craft beer and great burgers. The gal who checked us into our villa recommended it and said it’s a local favorite, and she was right.
Day 7: HVAR
What to do:
One of the best ways to experience Hvar is by renting a boat for the day—either with a skipper or on your own if you’re comfortable navigating. To save a little money, we decided to skipper ourselves since Phil and Danette have plenty of boating experience. We booked through Mario Rent, which was simple. If you’re considering this, I recommend opting for one of their larger boats. The one we chose was a bit too small and underpowered, which made open water cruising a bit slow. You can read more about our crazy, fun experience on the water here.
Once we were out on the water, we spent the day exploring hidden coves, swimming in some of the clearest, bluest water you’ll ever see, and stopping whenever the mood struck us. One of our favorite parts of the day was stumbling across a hand-painted “Restaurant” sign on a shoreline. We docked the boat, followed a short path inland, and discovered a tiny konoba (tavern) serving grilled fish, fresh bread, olive oil, and local wine. It felt like a scene from a movie —such a random, unexpected, and totally amazing experience.
This was our kind of day—sun, salt water, and zero rush. Spending it out on the boat gave us a whole new view of the island, and we loved every second of just cruising, soaking up the sun, and taking in all that Hvar beauty from the sea.
Dinner:
If you’re a gnocchi lover, make dinner reservations at Dalmatino’s—you won’t regret it. Their homemade gnocchi is unbelievably tender and served in a rich, flavorful sauce that might just ruin you for all other gnocchi. The menu has something for everyone, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and Croatian specialties. The staff is incredibly friendly, and the service was the best we had during our stay in Hvar. Be sure to book ahead, especially in high season, as it’s a popular spot.
Day 8: HVAR
What to do:
They say Hvar gets 2,724 hours of sunshine a year—and it definitely feels like it! We decided to soak it all in and spend the first half of the day relaxing. We headed to the Adriana Hotel, grabbed a couple of loungers, and sipped cocktails by the outdoor pool.
For a little extra indulgence, the hotel’s spa is amazing for a mid-trip reset. We booked our massages about a month in advance, and wow—they did not disappoint. I went for a 75-minute sports and tension massage followed by a 20-minute foot massage (so needed), and honestly, it was the absolute best massage I’ve ever had—and I get them regularly.
If you prefer an atmosphere that is a little bit more low-key, take a short walk from the Old Town to Pokonji Dol Beach. It’s a scenic pebble beach, with clear water and a couple of casual seaside restaurants. Just bring a towel and then rent a lounger.
Alternatively, if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a scooter or car and spend the day exploring beyond the town. Hvar is famous for its lavender fields, particularly in the central parts of the island near villages like Velo Grablje and Brusje. Along the way you can stop at hilltop villages like Stari Grad or Jelsa. They are known for their stone houses, sleepy squares, and quiet cafes.
Dinner:
Fig is located on a quiet side street and serves fresh food with a Mexican influence. The menu is simple but interesting, and the dishes are fabulous. It’s a nice change if you want something different from the usual local options. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, perfect for a laid-back evening.
Day 9: SPLIT
After soaking up the sun in Har, we hopped over to Spilt for a change of pace and some serious history.
Getting There:
We departed Hvar in the morning on the ferry, which was a quick and scenic 45-minute ride to Split. One-way tickets cost around $16-18 USD, though prices can vary depending on the season and ferry operator. You can check schedules and book tickets in advance through the official ferry operator website Jadrolinija.
The ferry ride offers beautiful views of the Adriatic and nearby islands, and it’s a convenient way to travel between these two places.
There are taxis waiting at the Split ferry port, but travelers often report issues with overcharging and unregulated drivers. Some cars may lack visible meters, and even when they have one, drivers sometimes refuse to use it or start with inflated fares. If a car doesn’t have a taximeter—or the driver won’t reset it—it’s best to walk away.
The safest option is to use Uber or Bol, which all operate in Split and offer transparent pricing. Another great alternative is booking a transfer in advance through a trusted service like Welcome Pickups, which guarantees fair rates and reliable drivers. If you do choose a taxi at the port, always confirm the price before getting in.
Accommodations:
Hotel Fermai is a boutique hotel located just a five-minute walk from Split’s Old Town. The junior suites are modern, spacious, and simply decorated. It is close to shops, restaurants, and major sights, but set slightly apart from the busiest streets. It’s a great option for something stylish and central without being right in the thick of it.
Things to do:
After dropping your luggage at the hotel, meet up with your guide for a private walking tour of Split. Diocletian’s Palace is amazing. It’s one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. It feels like a city within a city, and having someone knowledgeable tour you through it makes a huge difference. You’ll see the Peristyle, the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, the Temple of Jupiter, and the underground cellars, all while hearing stories that bring it to life. The tour also includes the charming streets surrounding the palace, which are full of history, little shops, and hidden corners you might otherwise miss.
Dinner:
In the early evening, join this food tour which is a fun way to spend the evening. You’ll get to stop at several locally loved spots to sample all kinds of Dalmatian specialties—think soparnik, fresh cheeses, olive oil, charcuterie, and seafood dishes like brudet or peka. You’ll also get to taste local wines and rakija, and I find that the guides always share great stories and insider tips. I try and do food tours in each city I visit, as they are a fantastic way to dive into the culture while enjoying some amazing flavors.
After the tour, grab a seat along the waterfront or head to Paradox Wine & Cheese Bar if you’re in the mood to keep the evening going. It’s a full day, but a really fun and well-rounded one.
Day 10: PLITVICE
After a quick stay in Split, it was time to leave the coast behind and head inland to one of Croatia’s most famous natural wonders—Plitvice Lakes National Park.
Getting from Split to Plitvice
We picked up our rental car and enjoy the roughly 3.5-hour drive to Plitvice. Driving in Croatia is straightforward, and the roads are generally easy to navigate. If you’re not in a rush, consider stopping in Zadar along the way for a quick stroll and a tasty lunch — it’s a great way to break up the trip and experience another charming coastal town. Zadar is best known for its Sea Organ, an incredible architectural feature that turns the motion of the waves into music. It’s right on the waterfront and makes for a really unique stop.
Accommodation:
After the drive, we checked into our accommodation for the night, Ethno Houses Plitvice, which is just minutes from the park entrance. The property has rustic cottages that feel cozy and authentic—nothing fancy, but full of charm and a great way to experience the area.
Dinner:
We had a really nice dinner at Bistro Plum. The menu has a good variety, so it’s easy to find something you’ll like, and the food was tasty. They also offer a breakfast buffet in the morning if your accommodation does not.
Day 11: PLITVICE
What to do:
This morning, we got up early and made our way to Plitvice before the park opened in order to avoid the lines. Plitvice National Park, a UNESCO rare World Heritage site, is Croatia’s natural masterpiece. The overpowering beauty is simply astounding. We had just a wonderful day, walking through the park’s trails and gazing at the beautiful waterfalls. This is a place you will NEVER forget. Simply beautiful.
Day 12 – Rovinj
Getting there:
Today was a long 5.5 hour driving day from Plitvice to Rovinj, but Rovinj is SO WORTH IT! Rovinj turned out to be my favorite town we visited during our trip (and that’s saying a lot).
Along the way, we stopped off along the way at Zrmanja River Rafting to enjoy lunch and a 2-hour guided kayak tour of the river. It was really a lot of fun, in addition to a great way to break up the drive. The tour ended at a little cafe that also had showers, so we were able to grab a quick bite, as well as freshen up and change into dry clothes before hitting the road again.
Accommodation:
We were so happy to finally arrive and check into the Adriatic Hotel in Old Town. It’s a modern boutique hotel and a truly beautiful place to stay. If you want to treat yourself, I highly recommend booking their biggest suite—it has stunning water views that make waking up feel extra special. We stayed in the huge suite ourselves, which even had a bathtub right in the bedroom—a quirky and totally unexpected touch. The hotel strikes the perfect balance of comfort and style, and you really can’t beat the location right in the heart of Old Town.
Dinner:
We were fairly tired after all of the driving and kayaking, so we grabbed dinner in the hotel’s restaurant and knocked off early.
Day 13: ROVINJ
What to do:
Today we took a private day tour of Istria’s hilltop towns and wineries. We visited the lovely little medieval towns of Motovun and Groznjan (the town of the artists). These towns totally reminded me of little Italian villages, with their cobblestone streets and relaxed vibe. That Italian feel makes sense since Istria was ruled by Italy for centuries. You can still see the influence in the food, hear Italian words mixed into the local language, and notice traditions like festivals and family gatherings that reflect Italian culture.
We teamed up with Istria Wine Tours to create a custom itinerary that included visits to the charming hilltop towns as well as a stop at a local winery. The wine here is fantastic, and getting a behind-the-scenes look at the vineyards made the experience even better.
This region is also famous for its truffles, which are a real highlight of Istrian cuisine. If we’d had more time, we would have loved to go truffle hunting. You’ll find all sorts of delicious truffle products around here, like truffle olive oil, truffle cheese, truffle honey, and truffle salami—perfect for gifts to bring home with you.
The Motovun forest is home to both white and black truffles, which attract food-lovers from all over the world. On the tours, you get to work with specially trained dogs that lead the way through the forest seeking the precious white truffles. We’re adding this to the list for next time!
Dinner:
We had a memorable meal in Rovinj at Restaurant Tutto Bene. We shared the salt-encrusted fresh fish—it was perfectly cooked, full of flavor, and just absolutely delicious. The menu also features a great selection of seafood and local specialties, so there’s plenty to choose from. Be sure to reserve a table on the outdoor terrace; the setting is lovely, especially in the evening. It’s the kind of place where you can relax, take your time, and enjoy a truly delicious dinner.
Day 14: ROVINJ
What to do:
A short drive down the coast is Pula, a historic city known for its Roman ruins. The Pula Arena is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in the world—it’s incredible to stand inside and imagine what life was like here centuries ago. Don’t miss the Temple of Augustus, a beautifully preserved Roman temple right in the town square, and take a walk over to Pula Cathedral, which has its own layers of history to explore. If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the calendar of events for open-air concerts, film screenings, or cultural festivals, many of which are held right inside the arena. How cool would that be to experience? We were hoping to do it, but the schedule didn’t align with our visit.
Dinner/Cocktails:
Rovinj has some amazing sunsets and people come out to watch them. We stopped off at a waterfront bar, sat on the rocks and enjoy a glass of Babic. Such a beautiful and relaxing way to watch the sun drift off into the horizon.
For dinner, we had reservations at the Fish House. They have several fresh catch options, as well as other options such as pizza, burgers and salads. It’s casual and the food is top notch.
Day 15: LJUBLJANA
Saying goodbye to Rovinj—and to Danette and Phil—was bittersweet. When we started looking at flights home, we realized that flying out of Ljubljana actually made the most sense. Honestly, it had never been on my radar as a destination, but it worked out perfectly.
Danette and Phil kept the rental car and headed toward Zagreb, while Brian and I booked a car service for the drive from Rovinj to Ljubljana (pronounced: Lyoob-lyah-nah). And let me tell you—I’m so glad we made that choice because Ljubljana ended up being one of the best surprises of the trip. This little capital city completely charmed us.
Getting from Rovinj to Ljubljana:
Along the route you’ll find Predjama Castle and Postojna Cave. We didn’t stop, but in hindsight I wish we would have. Predjama Castle is built dramatically into the side of a cliff and looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Just a short drive from there is Postojna Cave, a cave system that is said to be awesome. You can take an underground train ride through enormous chambers filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Yet another thing on the list for next time!
Accommodation:
Zlata Ladjica Boutique Hotel is right into the heart of Ljubljana’s charming, traffic-free old town, so you’re just steps away from the river, main square, and all the shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a beautifully restored historic building with tons of character, and the location couldn’t be more convenient for exploring the city on foot. Quiet at night and full of charm, it’s a great spot to lay your head.
What to do:
Before dinner, we took a walk along the Ljubljanica River, and it was such a highlight. The waterfront is lined with cafes, cool bars, and little boutiques, and we loved popping into a few along the way. I found some handmade coasters that I love! There was even an open-air market/food stall type roundup where locals were serving up food, picking up fresh produce and flowers, which gave the whole area such a laid-back, local vibe. With the colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, it honestly felt like a storybook setting. Such a charming way to spend the evening before dinner. And I thought this (below) was such a cool way to serve ice cream, so I had to get some and have dessert before dinner. LOL
Dinner:
We wanted to try some traditional Slovenian favorites like Bograc stew, so we had dinner at Hisa Pod Gradom, a cozy restaurant located just below Ljubljana Castle. They are also known for having a great dessert selection, including the popular traditional Prekmurska cake (layered pastry cake), but since I had already had dessert, I sadly opted out.
Day 16: LJUBLJANA
What to do:
Today we took a day trip to the stunning Lake Bled, which was just a short and scenic drive from Ljubljana. Known for its emerald-green water, picture-perfect church on the island, and medieval cliffside castle, it’s one of Slovenia’s most iconic spots. We spent the day soaking in the views, enjoying a boat ride to the island (Brian rowed), and walking the lakeside path. We stopped off and grabbed lunch at an outdoor casual restaurant where I finally got to try the traditional Prekmurska cake!!!
Before leaving Lake Bled, we couldn’t resist trying the Straža Toboggan Run—basically a luge-style sled that winds down a track on Straža Hill. It was such a blast and comes with incredible views of the lake as you zip down. You control the speed with a hand brake, so you can go as fast (or as chill) as you want. Definitely a fun way to wrap up our time in Bled!
See my suggestions for the perfect day in Lake Bled here.
Evening/Dinner:
Restavracija Strelec, located within the walls of Ljubljana Castle, is a great place for a farewell dinner. It’s a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves Slovenian cuisine and a true fine dining experience that ends the trip on a high note. It is perched above the city with amazing views—and the menu changes seasonally. Be sure to reserve ahead, especially for an outside table when the weather is nice.
My Thoughts on the Destinations
After coming home, I found myself thinking back on each place we visited and how different they all were—each one special in its own way. Some were exactly what I had imagined, others surprised me in the best ways possible. Here’s a little recap of my thoughts on each town:
Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik was the perfect place to start our trip. It’s beautiful, dramatic, and full of energy, especially inside the old city walls. Yes, it can get crowded, although there’s a reason everyone wants to be there. Jet skiing and walking the city walls at golden hour were definitely highlights. It’s a city that really makes an impression.
Hvar:
Hvar was just as fun and lively as I expected. The town has such a cool vibe—sunny, stylish, and relaxed all at once. We loved wandering the old town streets, eating incredible seafood, and spending the day out on the water. It’s definitely a spot where you can play or unwind, depending on your mood.
Split:
We weren’t in Split long, but I’m really glad we stopped. However, I have to admit, it was probably my least favorite of the destinations (I know, I might get tarred and feathered for saying that!). Diocletian’s Palace was fascinating and unlike anything I’ve seen before. Maybe with more time, Split would grow on me—I get the sense it’s a place that deserves more than just a day to fully appreciate.
Plitvice:
Plitvice was like stepping into a dream. The waterfalls were even more stunning than I imagined. Walking the wooden trails over crystal-clear water was one of those “wow, this is real” moments. It felt peaceful and refreshing to slow down and soak in all that natural beauty. It was a trek to get there, but I’m so glad we did. The beauty of that area is incredible.
Rovinj:
Rovinj completely stole my heart. It’s picture-perfect and warm and welcoming in a way that’s hard to put into words. I’ve always loved those charming waterfront towns, and Rovinj really captured that feeling for me. We wandered the cobblestone streets, relaxed in tiny wine bars, and watched the sun set over the Adriatic. I was truly enchanted by this town and can’t wait to go back.
Lake Bled:
Lake Bled is the kind of place that feels like a fairytale come to life. From the iconic church on the island to the castle perched high above the lake, every bit is stunning. I loved taking the boat ride across the water and wandering the paths around the lake. The fresh air and beautiful views made it so easy to relax and soak it all in. So, if you’re anywhere nearby, don’t miss a visit to Lake Bled. Here’s my recommendation on how to spend a great day at Lake Bled.
Ljubljana:
Ljubljana was an unexpected treat, and you can read my brief thoughts on the city here. I didn’t know what to expect, yet it ended up being one of the most beautiful, laid-back, and livable-feeling cities I’ve visited. The riverfront, the people, the food—it all just felt right. It was the perfect place to wrap up our trip.
Trip Summary
Looking back on the trip as a whole, I’m struck by just how much variety we experienced—from ancient walled cities to sleepy lake towns, dramatic coastlines to storybook villages. Each stop brought something different to the table, and together they made for a truly unforgettable journey. I loved the balance of history, nature, culture, and relaxation. I came home feeling both inspired, yet recharged. If you’re considering a trip through Croatia and Slovenia, I can’t recommend it enough. This region that will surprise you, charm you, and stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
- Contact: laughlinesandtravelsigns@yahoo.com
- Disclosure & Privacy Policy
- Copyright 2025 Laugh Lines and Travel Signs