Walled Cities & Waterfalls: A Spring Tour of Croatia’s Best
- Hannah Truman
- Jun 9
- 6 min read
From Maine to the Mediterranean: My Croatian Spring Adventure
This spring, I visited the stunning country of Croatia, and it quickly became one of my favorite European destinations. If you're planning a trip to Europe and want a bit of everything, Croatia truly delivers: sparkling blue coastline, breathtaking mountains, and historic cities full of charm and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Whether you're a beach lover, history buff, or outdoor adventurer, this trip offers the perfect mix of relaxation, culture, and natural beauty. Let me walk you through the highlights and (hopefully) convince you to bump Croatia higher on your travel list!
Post navigation:
Plitvice:
Plitvice Lakes National Park
Visiting Plitvice Lakes National Park feels like stepping into a fairytale. Wooden boardwalks wind over turquoise lakes, past cascading waterfalls, and through lush forest. It's no wonder the park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Croatia’s most iconic natural wonders.
How to get there
A visit to this park was a must for me, so we planned our trip accordingly. We flew into Zagreb, Croatia's capital in the north, rented a car, and drove to Plitvice to spend one night. The drive took about two hours.
How much time to spend
You’ll want to spend at least half a day exploring the park. The longest trail is 11.3 miles and takes about 6 to 8 hours to complete, but there are shorter options depending on your schedule. Loop C is a popular choice at 5 miles and takes around 4 to 5 hours. Trail A is the shortest at 2.2 miles and can be done in just over an hour. We chose Loop C in the morning, which gave us plenty of time to explore before continuing on to Split later that afternoon.
Arriving early makes a big difference
We booked the 7 to 8 a.m. time slot and it was perfect. The morning light shimmering on the water made everything feel even more magical, and it felt like we had the park almost to ourselves.
Comfortable shoes are a must
The paths are mostly flat, but you’ll still cover a lot of ground.
Trogir
Just a short drive or boat ride from Split, Trogir is a picturesque coastal town that feels like stepping into a medieval postcard. This UNESCO-listed gem sits on a small island connected by bridges and is full of charm, with cobblestone streets, historic churches, and a scenic waterfront promenade. We stopped by for a visit before heading to Split, and it was the perfect place to wander, grab a cone of gelato, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere.
Split:
Diocletian’s Palace
Exploring Diocletian’s Palace feels like stepping back in time. This UNESCO World Heritage Site sits at the heart of Split’s Old Town, where ancient Roman walls and temples are woven into everyday life—surrounded by bustling cafes, shops, and homes.
I highly recommend joining a walking tour of Split to get a deeper understanding of the palace’s history and the city.
Marjan Hill Hike
Marjan Hill offers a peaceful escape from the bustle of Split. Start your hike at the base near the old town and climb the stairs for sweeping views of the city, harbor, and surrounding islands. Pack water and your camera—it’s one of the best spots for sunset in Split.
Hvar:
Hvar is Croatia’s sunniest island and one of its most glamorous destinations. With its crystal-clear waters, lively harbor, historic stone streets, and vibrant nightlife, it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular stop along the Dalmatian Coast. But beyond the beach clubs and yachts, Hvar offers a more relaxed side—think quiet coves, hilltop views, and charming old town strolls. Whether you're here to unwind or explore, Hvar has something for everyone.
Fortress Hike
The hike up to Hvar’s Spanish Fortress (Fortica Španjola) is short, steep, and absolutely worth the effort. Starting from the old town, the path winds uphill through fragrant pine trees until you reach the top.
Once there, you're rewarded with sweeping views over Hvar’s terracotta rooftops and the sparkling Pakleni Islands. The fortress itself features old cannons and lookout towers, but the museum is minimal. The real highlight is the stunning panoramic view.
Visit the beach
Hvar’s main beach, Pokonji Dol, is about a 20-minute walk from the town center. It’s a great spot to relax, swim in the crystal-clear water, and soak up the sun. There’s also a beachside restaurant and bar where you can grab a drink or a bite while enjoying the view.
Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik is every bit as magical as its reputation suggests. Known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” this walled city combines rich history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking coastal views.
Whether you're wandering the limestone streets of the Old Town, walking along the ancient city walls, or watching the sunset from a cliffside bar, Dubrovnik is truly mesmerizing. It’s one of Croatia’s most iconic destinations, and for good reason.
City Walls
No trip to Dubrovnik is complete without walking the city walls. The full loop takes about 1.5–2 hours, offering stunning views over the Old Town’s red rooftops, the Adriatic Sea, and the fortress-studded coastline. It’s a great way to get your bearings while learning about the city's medieval defenses. Go early in the morning or just before closing to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Cable Car
For one of the most stunning views in Croatia, take the cable car up to the top of Mount Srđ. The ride is quick, but the sweeping views from the summit are unforgettable. You’ll get a full panorama of Dubrovnik’s walled Old Town, Lokrum Island, and the shimmering Adriatic Sea.
There’s also a scenic restaurant at the top—perfect if you want to linger and take it all in. Reservations are recommended, especially around sunset.
Buza Bar
Tucked into the cliffs just outside Dubrovnik’s city walls, Buza Bar is one of the most unique spots to grab a drink in the city. With no signs and only a small doorway through the wall leading to it, finding it feels like a hidden treasure.
Once you step through, you’re met with dramatic views of the Adriatic, drinks served from a simple stone bar, and seating carved into the rocky cliffs. It’s the perfect place to relax with a cold drink, watch cliff jumpers dive into the sea below, and catch an unforgettable sunset. Buza doesn’t serve food and seating is first-come, first-served, so come early if you want a good spot. It’s not fancy—but that’s part of the charm.
Nautika Restaurant
For a truly special dining experience in Dubrovnik, Nautika is hard to beat. Perched just outside the western entrance of the Old Town, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and the historic city walls—especially magical at sunset. The atmosphere is elegant and romantic, making it perfect for a celebratory meal or a memorable final night in the city.
Day Tours:
Bosnia and Herzogovina
If you’re based in Dubrovnik or Split and want to experience a different culture and landscape in a single day, a trip to Bosnia and Herzegovina is well worth it. Most tours include a stop in the historic town of Mostar, famous for its iconic Stari Most (Old Bridge), vibrant markets, and Ottoman-influenced architecture.
Some tours also stop at the Kravica Waterfalls, a stunning natural spot where you can swim and relax by the cascades. Keep in mind that border crossings can take time, so don’t forget your passport and be prepared for a long day. It’s well worth it, though—expect a mix of fascinating history, delicious local food, strong Turkish coffee, and breathtaking scenery.
Montenegro
Another great day trip from Dubrovnik is to Montenegro, where you’ll experience dramatic coastal landscapes, charming towns, and a completely different cultural flavor. Highlights often include the picturesque Bay of Kotor, the medieval walled town of Kotor, and the seaside village of Perast with its famous islet church, Our Lady of the Rocks. It’s a long day, but a great way to see another country and take in some of the region’s most beautiful coastal views.
General Tips for Visiting Croatia
Base yourself in Split and/or Dubrovnik
Both cities are great hubs for day trips. From either, you can easily book tours to nearby spots like Montenegro or Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Eat at konobas (taverns) outside the old city centers
Especially around Diocletian’s Palace in Split, you’ll find more authentic and affordable meals just a short walk from the main tourist areas. These are the places locals actually go!
Take the ferry instead of the bus (Split to Dubrovnik)
While the bus may seem faster on paper, it’s cramped and uncomfortable. The ferry is more spacious, offers beautiful views, and has food, drinks, and bathrooms onboard—making the journey far more enjoyable.
Skip the train
Unlike other European countries, Croatia’s train system is very slow and not ideal for getting around. It's better suited for scenic rides, not practical travel.
Pack light
Croatia’s historic towns have lots of uneven stone streets that aren’t suitcase-friendly. Traveling light will save you a lot of effort (and frustration).
Carry cash (Euros)
Not all places take cards—especially smaller shops, restaurants, or bathrooms. Keep a few euro coins on hand in case you need to use a public toilet (they’re usually not free in Europe).
Choose small group tours
When booking excursions, opt for small group tours for a more relaxed and personalized experience. Big tours often mean crowds, long waits, and less flexibility.
Get the Dubrovnik Pass
It’s a great value if you plan to visit multiple sights. For example, entry to the fort outside the Old Town alone costs around €15—but it’s included with the pass, along with several other top attractions.
Thanks for reading!
- The Maine Chick
Kommentit