10-Day Croatia Island Hopping Itinerary: Explore the Beautiful Islands
Croatia Island Hopping is definitely one of my favourite trips that I have been on. Whenever someone asks me where I would recommend for them to visit in Europe in the summer, Croatia is always one of the top destinations on my list. With beautiful crystal waters, stunning beaches, beautiful old towns, and amazing food and wine, it’s the perfect destination for your next summer holiday.
In this post, I am sharing my exact 10-day island hopping itinerary, as well as my recommendations on each city and island I visited.
Table of Contents
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How to get between the islands of Croatia
The easiest airports to fly into are Split and Dubrovnik, so I chose to start at one and then end at the other. There are several beautiful islands you could visit between Split and Dubrovnik:
- Korčula
- Hvar
- Brač
- Vis
- Mljet
- Elaphiti Islands
You can travel between the islands via Ferry. I booked all of my tickets in advance before I arrived on Ferry Hopper. Some of the islands such as Vis don’t have as regular ferries as Hvar and Korčula so make sure to check this in advance.
10-Day Itinerary for Croatia Island Hopping
Day 1: Dubrovnik Old Town
Day one you will arrive in Dubrovnik which is my favourite city in Croatia, with its charming Old Town, and stunning views of the Adriatic Sea it is the perfect place to start your Croatia trip.
Start off your day by exploring the Old Town. Stroll through Stradun, the main street which has beautiful limestone buildings, cafes, bars and shops. You can also walk the Dubrovnik City walls which offers stunning views over the Old Town, Port and you can see Lokrum Island from here. I would recommend going early if you want to do this as it was too hot by the time I arrived. If you buy the Dubrovnik pass, this includes access to the city walls, several museums and public transport.
Whilst exploring the Old Town, I would recommend getting an icecream from Peppino’s Gelato Factory.
Then, take the cable car to Mount Srđ for incredible views over the city, this costs around €27. Then head to Panorama Restaurant for lunch with a view.
In the afternoon, head for drink at Buza Bar, which is a hidden cliff bar with stunning sea views. You can jump off the rocks into the sea here.
For dinner on the first night, I ate in Lapad at Pizzeria Papillon but I will include all of my restaurant and bar recommendations on the interactive map.
Where to stay in Dubrovnik
Old Town- Best for First Time Visitors
Staying in the Old Town would be my top choice as you are in walking distance from all of the places you will want to visit, restaurants, bars and nightlife. However, it is quite expensive and can be crowded in peak summer season.
Lapad- Best for beaches
This is where I chose to stay as the accommodation was a bit cheaper than the Old Town and it has lovely beaches and still some great choices for restaurants. This would be a great option for families too. Lapad is a 15 minute drive from the Old Town. There is a regular bus which takes about 30 minutes, or you can get an Uber.
Ploče – Best for Luxury & Sea Views
Ploče is just outside of the Old Town so you are still very close and this is where there are some lovely beaches too like Banje Beach. However, the hotels here are more luxury. I have stayed at Hotel Excelsior which is an incredible, luxury hotel with iconic views over the sea.
Gruž- More affordable options
Gruž is the port area and this is where you can find more budget friendly accommodation options. It has good bus links into the Old Town or it is a 40 minute walk. It also means you are close to the ferry for when you move on to the islands.
Day 2: Beach Day in Lapad
On day 2 in Dubrovnik I would recommend a more relaxed day around Lapad to see a different part of the city. Head top Lapad Beach which is a family-friendly, sandy-pebble beach with loungers, beach bars, and calm, shallow water. Another great option is Copacabana Beach which is in Babin Kuk. Here you have the option of water sports, kayaking, and there’s also a beach club. If you like walking, you can walk the scenic Lapad–Babin Kuk trail.
I would recommend heading to Cave Bar More for lunch. This is such a cool bar, there’s a cave inside, but because I went in the day I chose to sit outside which was also lovely, overlooking the sea and the beach.
In the evening, head to Fratello’s Prosecco Bar. This is such a stunning prosecco bar, with really pretty views. I would recommend going before sunset so you can see the views at sunset. I would also recommend Mr Fosters Cocktail Bar which served amazing cocktails.
For dinner, head to Taj Mahal which serves traditional Bosnian food and is in a lovely street in the Old Town. Then head to D’Vino Wine bar to sample some amazing Croatian wines.
Day 3: Dubrovnik Old Town and Banje Beach
On the final day in Dubrovnik, have a relaxing morning in Dubrovnik Old Town. Head to Cognito coffee shop for a coffee and pastry in a beautiful little coffee shop tucked away in the cobbled streets in the Old Town. Then I would recommend spending the day at Banje Beach Club. You can rent a sunlounger and have lunch and drinks here. It is such a nice area to go swimming too.
For dinner, head to Restaurant 360 which is a Michelin star restaurant nestled within the walls of Dubrovnik Old Town. It has a stunning view over the port and incredible Dalmatian food.
Another great option for dinner this evening is Konoba Dubrava which is a family run restaurant serving authentic local recipes. It is a 10 minute drive out of the Old Town.
Other Dubrovnik Recommendations:
Day 4- Korčula
Next I would recommend getting the ferry to Korčula Island.and spending 3 days here. This is probably my favourite island in Croatia that I have been to. I would recommend staying in the Old Town as it’s where a lot of the best restaurants and bars are,and it is near the port to make it easy when moving to the next island. For more detail on Korčula Island, click on my free Korčula Guide here.
On day 1, I would recommend having a relaxing day at Lumbarda which is a lovely town which beaches and vineyards. I spent the day at the two beaches Pržina Beach or Vrbovica Beach. You can get the bus from Korčula town which runs regularly and takes only 15 minutes. You can also get a taxi boat from the town.
In the evening, stroll around the Old Town at sunset. Theres usually some market stalls, and lots of pretty bars and restaurants along the sea front. I would recommend having dinner at Aterina restaurant and you need to try their local dish ‘Žrnovski Makaruni’.
Day 5- Korčula
This was my favourite day of the whole trip. I took a taxi boat to Badija Island, Vela Island and Vrnik Island. Badija Island was my favourite of the three. It was originally settled by monks and is home to a 15th Century Monastery. The island also has crystal clear waters and several stunning beaches, and as soon as you step off the taxi boat, you will be greeted by deer. They aren’t scared of tourists at all; they will come up to you!
I got the tickets for the Taxi Boat at the pier in Korčula Town on the day. It’s a hop-on hop-off boat with lots of different times going to each island. It only takes about 15 minutes to get to each island and the service is really easy to use.
Of the evening, I had a cocktail at the top of a castle! The cocktail bar is called Massimo, it has stunning views over the Old Town, and is perfect for a cocktail at sunset. However, you do have to climb a very steep ladder to the top of the tower.
Day 6- Korčula
On your final day in Korčula, head to Ignis for a relaxing breakfast in the Old Town. Then head to LaBanya Beach club for a relaxing day at the beach. You can hire a sunbed, the water here is crystal-clear and they have paddle boards you can rent. There is also a platform area in the sea that you can swim out to and jump off and a swing in the sea for photos.
For dinner, head to De Canavellis. This restaurant is located in the Old Town with a great view of the sea, and the Kanavelić Tower. It does amazing pizza and wine!
Other Korčula suggestions
Visit a winery
Korčula Island is one of Croatia’s most renowned wine-growing regions, making a vineyard visit and wine tasting tour an absolute must during your stay. One standout option is Vitis Winery in Lumbarda — a charming, family-run estate known for its homemade food, and a delightful tasting experience in a peaceful setting.
Another excellent choice is Popić Winery, also located in Lumbarda. This vineyard is praised not only for its exceptional wines but also for its terrace views overlooking the vines and sea, making it a perfect stop for wine lovers seeking a scenic experience.
Beaches
Korčula is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Croatia, known for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and natural beauty. Most beaches are rocky or pebbly though so make sure to bring a pair of water shoes.
Pupnatska Luka Beach
One of the most popular and picturesque beaches on the island, Pupnatska Luka features fine white pebbles, calm waters, and excellent snorkeling conditions. It has a beach bar, a restaurant serving local food and you can rent a sun lounger and umbrella here.
Located about 25 minutes by car from Korčula Old Town, this beach is ideal for a half- or full-day trip. If you don’t have a car, taxis are available and typically cost around €35 one-way.
Žitna Beach
Tucked away in a quiet cove, Žitna Beach is a hidden gem with vivid blue waters, ideal for snorkeling and swimming. It’s around 35 minutes by car from the Old Town. While the beach is beautiful and serene, there are no restaurants or bars nearby, so be sure to pack drinks and snacks if you’re planning to spend the day.
Bačva Beach
Another peaceful option is Bačva Beach, known for its calm, crystal-clear waters and a more secluded atmosphere. A small seafront restaurant is nearby, where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes with a view.
Day 7- Hvar
Your final island of the trip is going to be Hvar and I would recommend spending 3 days here also. It is a bit more expensive than the other islands and more lively too.
On this day, I would recommend discovering Hvar Town, wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets and along the harbour. Get a gelato from aROMA Gelato which is right on the waterfront promenade. Then hike to Hvar Fortress (Fortica Španjola), which offers one of the best panoramic views in Hvar. From the top, you can see over the Old Town, the Sea, and the nearby Pakleni Islands.
In the evening, head to Ka’Lavanda Music Bar, the atmosphere was perfect for a relaxed evening out. Then for dinner head to Fig Cafe for great mediterranean food in a beautiful little alleyway in the town.
Where to Stay in Hvar
Hvar Town – Best for Nightlife, Dining & First-Time Visitors
Hvar town is the best area to stay if you want to be close to restaurants, bars, and the iconic Hvar Fortress.
Stari Grad- a more peaceful option
This is one of the oldest towns in Europe, it is quieter, more affordable and has beautiful cobblestone streets.
Milna- best for beaches
Milna is a 10 minute drive from Hvar Town, it is a lovely seaside village with a few beautiful stoney beaches. There’s also some great options for restaurants here.
Day 8- Hvar
On this day, take a taxi boat to the Pakleni Islands, these islands have beautiful beaches and crystal clear water perfect for swimming. I would recommend having lunch at Toto’s bar which does lovely tapas on the seafront. You can get the taxi boat tickets at the Harbour and they had several times running to and from Hvar to choose from.
In the evening, head to Vintage Bar for a cocktail, and then dinner at Black Pepper for lovely food in a beautiful outside area in a cobblestone alleyway. After dinner, I would recommend visiting Central Park Club for drinks and to listen to live music. This bar had such a nice atmosphere.
Day 9- Hvar
On your final day in Hvar, I would recommend a relaxed morning in the town. Start the morning with a leisurely stroll through the narrow stone streets of Hvar Old Town, then head to BackLane Craft Bar, a stylish little café tucked away just off the main square. They serve specialty coffee with a cool, relaxed vibe — perfect for people-watching.
Then head to Pokonji Dol Beach, located just a 20-minute walk or 5-minute drive from Hvar Town. This wide pebble beach offers clear turquoise waters, a relaxed atmosphere, and two beachfront restaurants where you can grab some lunch. You can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas here. Another great option is to head to Mekicevica Beach, a beautiful hidden cove only accessible on foot or by boat. It is a 15 minute walk from Pokonji Dol via a coastal path. This is great for snorkelling and swimming but there are no amenities here.
In the late afternoon, head to Hula Hula beach bar to have a drink watching the sunset. For dinner, if you want a more relaxed dinner, head to Leporini Restaurant which serves amazing food and wine in a beautiful little alleway.
Other Hvar recommendations:
1. Take a Boat Trip to the Blue Cave & Green Cave
One of the most popular activities in Hvar is a day trip to the Blue Cave and Green Cave, located on the nearby island of Biševo and Ravnik. These natural sea caves are famous for their colors. The Blue Cave glows with an electric-blue light as the sun hits the water through an underwater opening and the Green Cave gets its emerald glow from light bouncing off algae-covered walls.
Most tours also stop at Stiniva Cove (Vis Island), Pakleni Islands, and Budikovac Lagoon, offering time to swim and snorkel.
2. Explore Vrboska – The “Little Venice” of Hvar
Located on the northern coast of the island, Vrboska is a hidden gem that combines Venetian-style architecture, stone bridges, and a peaceful harbor. Known as the “Little Venice of Hvar,” it’s perfect for a half-day trip.
- Stroll the canals and charming backstreets
- Visit the Fisherman’s Museum for local history
- Have lunch by the marina at a traditional konoba (tavern)
It’s a great place to unwind away from the Hvar Town buzz and experience a more local, authentic vibe.
3. Spend an Afternoon at a Beach Club
Hvar is famous for its stylish beach clubs.
Top Beach Clubs in Hvar:
- Falko Beach Bar – Tucked in a pine forest near Hvar Town, it’s a quieter, boho-style spot with hammocks and beanbags.
- Hula Hula Beach Bar – Known for sunset parties and DJ sets. Just 10 minutes from Hvar Town.
- Carpe Diem Beach Club – Located on Stipanska Island (via water taxi), this is an iconic party destination.
4. Visit Stari Grad – A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Spend time in Stari Grad, one of the oldest towns in Europe and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by the ancient Greeks in 384 BC, it’s rich in cultural heritage and much quieter than Hvar Town.
Top things to see in Stari Grad:
- Stari Grad Plain (UNESCO site) – An agricultural area laid out in ancient Greek times, still in use today.
- Tvrdalj Castle – The 16th-century residence of Croatian poet Petar Hektorović.
Old harbor promenade – Lined with cafes and perfect for a scenic stroll.
Day 10- Split
My final stop of the trip was Split where I spent just one night. Although my time here was short, one day was enough to take in some of the city’s most iconic sights and enjoy an unforgettable evening in the Old Town.
I spent the day exploring Split Old Town. Split’s Old Town is built around the impressive remains of Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved Roman palaces in the world.
Must-see highlights include:
- Diocletian’s Palace – Wander through the ancient walls, courtyards, and underground cellars.
- St. Domnius Cathedral – One of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use, with a bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.
- Riva Promenade – A pretty waterfront perfect for strolling and people watching.
For dinner, I would recommend tacos from To Je Tako and then head to Roof 68 which is a rooftop bar with great views over the city. There was a dj on when I went so it had such a nice atmosphere to watch the sunset.
3 Tips for Island Hopping in Croatia
- Book your accommodation in advance– the accommodation in the main towns gets booked up quickly and can be quite expensive so make sure to do this well in advance
- Book your ferries in advance– it is definitely worth booking your ferries in advance to and make sure to check the timetables as some routes don’t run as regular. I used the ferryhopper app and then all of my tickets were in one place.
- Book Restaurants– if you have certain restaurants you really want to go to, especially if they are popular, make sure to book in advance. There were a few on Hvar I couldn’t get a reservation as they were booked up for week.