Routes · Europe

Melbourne to Croatia: Dubrovnik, Split, Plitvice and Zagreb

Melbourne → Dubrovnik → Split → Plitvice Lakes → Zagreb

Croatia coast & lakes Best season (general guide): May–Jun, Sep

This route travels along the Croatian coast and inland to the Plitvice Lakes. It spends eight nights in Croatia. From Melbourne you'll connect through the Gulf or Europe.

In Dubrovnik, walk the city walls early, before the crowds. The Stradun is the main street, and a boat goes to Lokrum island. A cable car climbs Mount Srđ.

Travel to Split. Diocletian's Palace is a Roman palace that forms part of the old town. Boats go to Hvar and Brač.

Head inland to Plitvice. The lakes are linked by waterfalls, and swimming is not allowed. Then continue to Zagreb, with its upper town and museums.

May to June and September are the best seasons.

Pacing: Dubrovnik's walls are hot and busy in the middle of the day, so walk them at opening time or late in the afternoon. Cruise-ship days bring big crowds to the old town, and checking the port schedule helps you plan your visits.

Buses link Dubrovnik and Split along the coast, a scenic journey of several hours. Ferries and catamarans go to the islands from Split's harbour. From Split, buses go inland to Plitvice.

At Plitvice, arrive at opening time to walk the boardwalks before the tour groups. Stay on the paths, as the lakes are protected and the boardwalks narrow. The park sells timed tickets in summer, so book ahead.

Zagreb is a relaxed capital with cafés and markets. The upper town is reached by a short funicular ride, and the Dolac market is busy in the morning.

Croatia's coast is known for seafood and local wines, and the konobas, small family taverns, are a good place to try them. Inland, Zagreb's café culture is a relaxed end to the trip.

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