We don't really know how, but Croatia is still a bit of an unsung hero in terms of European holidays. People know it's beauty, but so often just focus on Split and Dubrovnik when visiting. If you have your heart set on an island-hopping adventure around Croatia's best islands, then this is for you! Over the years, we've perfected the most idyllic route that ticks off all the big cities, cute towns and stunning waters that Croatia has to offer. And the best part? You can sit back and relax because we've got everything sorted with the TruTravels Croatia Sailing Adventure 8-day tour, which starts and ends in Split and really is the trip of DREAMS.

 

 

 

So here it is...the ultimate 8-day route for your next Croatia trip!

 

Day 1: All Aboard in Split!

 

Split is the perfect place to start, there's a big harbour, it's perfect for a day of exploring and flights here are pretty reasonable. Split is Croatia’s second-largest city and FULL of Roman history as well as modern vibes. Check-in to your sailboat (aka your floating home for the week), meet your new TruFam, and get ready to set sail. After the welcome dinner in the eve, you’ll get your first taste of Split's nightlife. Think cool cocktail bars and beach clubs, the perfect start to an amazing week!

 

Want to know why sailing Croatia is the best way to explore the country - here's why!

 

Day 2: Split → Hvar

 

Set sail for Hvar, the fancy part of Croatia. Famous for its boujee beach bars, celeb sightings, and insta-worthy views, Hvar is where celebs such as Beyonce have enjoyed their holidays. After a swim stop in a secluded bay, we'll dock in Hvar Town and explore its cobbled streets, hike up to the hilltop fortress, and watch the sun go down with a cocktail in hand. If you fancy a next-level boogie party the night away at Carpe Diem or Hula Hula Bar.

 

Day 3: Hvar → Mljet

 

Mljet is all about nature and chill vibes. We'll sail south to Mljet, one of Croatia’s most beautiful spots. This stunning national park is covered in lush forests and saltwater lakes - you won't believe your eyes! Rent a bike, kayak the lakes, or just relax with a swim and a nap in the sun. Make sure you also visit the 12th-century Benedictine monastery on a tiny island in the middle of the lake. Yes, an island on a lake on an island.

 

 

Day 4: Mljet → Dubrovnik

 

Next stop: the famous city of Dubrovnik. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is FULL of history, towering stone walls, terracotta rooftops, and Game of Thrones filming locations. Head into the Old Town for an afternoon of exploring before hitting the town for another epic night out.

Don’t miss: Walking the city walls at golden hour and spotting familiar GoT filming locations.

 

Already craving an Aperol in the sun? If you want all of this and more, but don't want the stress of organising every minute detail? Then we've got just a thing for you...check out our Croatia Sailing Adventure and leave the rest up to us.

 

Day 5: Dubrovnik → Korčula

 

Wave goodbye to Dubrovnik and cruise to Korčula, aka the mini-Dubrovnik with fewer crowds and more charm. Birthplace of Marco Polo, this walled town is full of history, local wine (yes please!), and cute streets. Spend your afternoon wine tasting, swimming in turquoise waters, or sipping a sunset cocktail.

Don't miss: Korčula’s crisp white wines are legendary - don’t leave without a glass of Grk or Pošip.

 

Day 6: Korčula → Makarska

 

Today, we'll drop anchor in Makarska, a coastal town found between the sea and dramatic mountains. This is your party day, enjoy a flotilla party with alllll the prosecco! Makarska is known for its nightlife, with bars built into seaside caves and epic beach raves. It's a must-visit if you love a boogie in the sun.

Don't miss: The famous Deep Makarska Club. Yep, it’s literally built into a cliffside cave.

 

 

 

Day 7: Makarska → Omis → Split

 

It’s your last full day, and Omis is the perfect island to spend your last full day. Think sandy beaches, crystal waters, and chill island vibes. Whether you want to snorkel, explore the local area, or just soak it all in. In the afternoon, you'll head back to where it all began - Split! Here it's time to have a walking tour around this amazing city and enjoy the final evening in Croatia.

 

Day 8: Split

 

It’s time to say goodbye to your boat and your crew. But don’t worry, the memories (and the group chat) will last way longer than your tan. Luckily for you Split is the perfect place to end in as you have the option to explore some more, head straight home or carry on your European summer of dreams on for even longer!

 

So there we go, that's how we would spend eight perfect days in the amazing country of Croatia. With crystal-clear seas, amazing cities and more incredible views than you could ever imagine, Croatia is unmissable, and this is the perfect route to take to see as much as possible in a week.

 

If you want all of this and more, but don't want the stress of organising every minute detail? Then we've got just a thing for you...check out our Croatia Sailing Adventure and leave the rest up to us.