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Croatia: Zagreb to Dubrovnik

A nine-day overland route from Zagreb, down the Dalmatian coast to Dubrovnik, with stops at the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park and the historic port of Šibenik.

This is Croatia's classic north-to-south overland route, condensed into nine days. The trip connects the inland capital of Zagreb with the Adriatic fortress-city of Dubrovnik, covering significant ground. The itinerary balances city exploration with time in nature—most notably at Plitvice Lakes National Park. It's a practical option for a first-time visitor looking for a structured way to see the country's main highlights without navigating the logistics of bus schedules and coastal ferries on their own.

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Book Croatia Adventure by G Adventures. From $2,319 USD $2,899 · 9 days · max 16 travelers · Standard hotels, ground transport & select meals trip code ECZK Prices in USD. Your local currency is shown on G Adventures.

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The Route, Day by Day

Each leg of the journey mapped out — where the day takes you, what's actually on the ground, and things to consider when planning this tour.

Day 1 of 9

Zagreb

Arrival in Zagreb

Arrive in Zagreb at any time. The city's core is compact, making it easy to get your bearings with a short walk. Drop your bags and head out to explore the street art scene, a prominent feature of the urban landscape, before finding a spot for dinner in the capital.

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Day at a glance

  • Arrival day in Zagreb
  • Orientation walk to see the city's key landmarks and street art
  • Accommodation: Hotel Central Zagreb
Day 2 of 9

Plitvička Jezera

The Waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes

The morning begins with a two-hour overland journey south from Zagreb, covering the 132km to Plitvice Lakes National Park. The park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a network of 16 interconnected lakes and over 90 waterfalls. Spend the afternoon exploring the trails that weave through the forest and along the crystal-clear water. The day ends with a short drive to a hotel near the park for the night.

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Day at a glance

  • Overland journey from Zagreb to Plitvice Lakes (132km)
  • Explore the forests and cascading falls of Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Accommodation: Big House Hotel Plitvička Jezera
  • Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3 of 9

Šibenik

Zadar's Food Scene & Krka's Falls

A multi-stop day heading towards the coast. The first leg is a 120km drive to Zadar for a walking food tour. The route winds through the historic city centre, past the Sea Organ and Roman Forum, ending in a secluded 16th-century garden for a tasting of Dalmatian food and local wines. From Zadar, it's another 76km to Krka National Park. A moderate 4km hike on dirt and paved paths follows the Krka River, culminating at the Skradinski Buk waterfall. The day concludes with a final 50km drive to the coastal city of Šibenik.

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Day at a glance

  • Walking food tour of Zadar's historic center
  • Taste traditional Dalmatian food and three local wines
  • 4km hike through Krka National Park to Skradinski Buk waterfall
  • Overnight in the coastal city of Šibenik
  • Accommodation: Hotel Jadran Šibenik
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
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Ready to go?

Book Croatia Adventure by G Adventures.

From $2,319 USD $2,899 · 9 days · max 16 travelers · Standard hotels, ground transport & select meals

trip code ECZK · routes directly to G Adventures · 90-day cookie

Prices in USD. Your local currency is shown on G Adventures.

Not ready to book yet?

Add Tour to Watchlist

Get notified about price changes on this tour.

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