Croatia, the land of a thousand islands, where the sun dips into the Adriatic Sea and paints the sky with hues of crimson and gold. A place where the ancient walls of Dubrovnik whisper secrets of the past, and the waterfalls of Plitvice Lakes National Park cascade like a symphony of liquid silver. But, let’s get real, I’m a broke backpacker, and I’m not here for the fancy tourist traps or the overpriced seafood restaurants. I’m here for the raw, unbridled beauty of this Balkan gem, and I’m willing to sleep on the streets, eat bread and cheese for every meal, and hike for hours in the scorching sun to experience it all. Because, when you’re a broke backpacker, you don’t just travel, you survive. And, Croatia, I’m ready to survive you.
WHEN TO GO:
Spring (March to May)
- Pros: Mild weather, fewer tourists, lower prices
- Cons: Some attractions and accommodations may be closed
Summer (June to August)
- Pros: Warm weather, beach destinations are open, festivals and events
- Cons: Peak tourist season, higher prices, crowds
Autumn (September to November)
- Pros: Comfortable temperatures, fewer tourists, harvest festivals
- Cons: Some attractions may be closed, weather can be unpredictable
Winter (December to February)
- Pros: Low prices, Christmas markets, skiing and snowboarding
- Cons: Cold weather, some attractions and accommodations may be closed
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer: For beach lovers and festival enthusiasts
- Spring and Autumn: For those who prefer milder weather and smaller crowds
- Winter: For budget-conscious travelers and winter sports enthusiasts
BEST ITINERARIES:
- Day 1-3: Split
- Explore Diocletian’s Palace
- Visit the beaches of Bačvice and Ovčice
- Take a ferry to Brač or Hvar
- Day 4-6: Dubrovnik
- Walk the old city walls
- Visit the red-tiled roofs of the old town
- Take a boat tour to Lokrum Island
- Day 7: Return to Split
2 Weeks:
- Day 1-3: Split
- Explore Diocletian’s Palace
- Visit the beaches of Bačvice and Ovčice
- Take a ferry to Brač or Hvar
- Day 4-6: Dubrovnik
- Walk the old city walls
- Visit the red-tiled roofs of the old town
- Take a boat tour to Lokrum Island
- Day 7-10: Plitvice Lakes National Park
- Hike and swim in the park’s lakes and waterfalls
- Visit the nearby town of Rastoke
- Day 11-14: Zagreb
- Explore the upper and lower towns
- Visit the Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church
- Enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere
1 Month:
- Week 1: Split and surrounding islands
- Explore Diocletian’s Palace
- Visit the beaches of Bačvice and Ovčice
- Take a ferry to Brač, Hvar, and Vis
- Week 2: Dubrovnik and surrounding areas
- Walk the old city walls
- Visit the red-tiled roofs of the old town
- Take a boat tour to Lokrum Island and the Elafiti Islands
- Week 3: Plitvice Lakes National Park and Zagreb
- Hike and swim in the park’s lakes and waterfalls
- Visit the nearby town of Rastoke
- Explore the upper and lower towns of Zagreb
- Week 4: Istria and the north
- Visit the hilltop towns of Motovun and Grožnjan
- Explore the beaches of Poreč and Rovinj
- Visit the stunning waterfalls of Sjeverni Velebit National Park
TRANSPORTATION:
Buses:
- Arriva:
- Zagreb to Split: 150-200 HRK (~20-25 EUR)
- Zagreb to Dubrovnik: 250-300 HRK (~35-40 EUR)
- Croatia Bus:
- Zagreb to Split: 120-150 HRK (~15-20 EUR)
- Zagreb to Dubrovnik: 200-250 HRK (~25-35 EUR)
- Liburnija:
- Coastal towns and cities: 50-100 HRK (~7-14 EUR)
- Panturist:
- International routes: 200-500 HRK (~25-65 EUR)
Trains:
- Croatian Railways (HŽ):
- Zagreb to Split: 150-200 HRK (~20-25 EUR)
- Zagreb to Osijek: 100-150 HRK (~14-20 EUR)
- Railjet:
- Zagreb to Split: 200-250 HRK (~25-35 EUR)
- Zagreb to Osijek: 150-200 HRK (~20-25 EUR)
Ferries:
- Jadrolinija:
- Coastal towns and islands: 50-100 HRK (~7-14 EUR)
- Blue Line:
- Italy to Croatia: 200-500 HRK (~25-65 EUR)
- Kapital Brod:
- Coastal towns and islands: 50-100 HRK (~7-14 EUR)
Tickets and Prices:
- Bus: Tickets can be bought at bus stations or online, prices vary depending on route and operator
- Train: Tickets can be bought at train stations or online, prices vary depending on route and operator
- Ferry: Tickets can be bought at ferry ports or online, prices vary depending on route and operator
ACCOMMODATIONS:
My journey began in Zagreb, where I stumbled upon a quirky little hostel called “The Funky Monkey”. For just 15 euros a night, I got a cozy dorm room, free WiFi, and a funky atmosphere that made me feel like I was part of a secret club.
Next, I headed to Split, where I discovered a hidden gem called “The Beach House”. This place was literally a stone’s throw from the beach, and for 20 euros a night, I got a comfortable private room, a kitchen to cook my own meals, and a terrace with a view of the sea.
But, the real adventure began when I arrived in Dubrovnik. I had heard horror stories about the prices in this ancient city, but I was determined to find something affordable. And, after some serious digging, I stumbled upon a little-known hostel called “The Old Town Hideaway”. For just 25 euros a night, I got a cozy room in a 16th-century building, a kitchen to cook my own meals, and a terrace with a view of the old town walls.
Of course, there were some bumps along the way. Like the time I accidentally booked a hostel that was actually a squat, or the time I got lost in the streets of Split and ended up sleeping on a bench. But, that’s all part of the adventure, right?
So, if you’re a fellow broke backpacker, don’t be discouraged by the prices in Croatia. With some determination and a willingness to think outside the box, you can find some amazing accommodation options that fit your budget. Happy travels!
FOOD:
Croatia, known for its stunning coastline and rich history, is also a food lover’s paradise. But, with prices seeming to match the country’s stunning scenery, it can be challenging to eat well on a budget. Fear not, fellow travelers! With some insider knowledge and a willingness to venture off the beaten path, you can indulge in delicious and authentic Croatian cuisine without breaking the bank.
Street Food
- Ćevapi: These tasty little sausages are a staple of Croatian street food. Try them at a local market or street vendor for around 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) for a serving of 5-6 pieces.
- Burek: Flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables, burek is a satisfying snack that can be found for around 15-20 HRK (~2-3 EUR) at a bakery or street vendor.
Local Eats
- Konoba: These cozy, family-run restaurants serve up traditional Croatian dishes at a fraction of the cost of touristy spots. Try a hearty plate of peka (meat or vegetables cooked under a bell-shaped lid) for around 50-70 HRK (~7-10 EUR).
- Pivnica: These rustic, no-frills restaurants offer a range of local specialties, including čevapi, burek, and pljeskavica (a juicy burger-like patty). Prices are around 30-50 HRK (~5-7 EUR) for a main course.
Grocery Shopping
- Local Markets: Visit bustling markets like Dolac in Zagreb or Green Market in Split to stock up on fresh produce, cheese, and bread for a fraction of the cost of supermarkets.
- Discount Stores: Look for stores like Lidl or Kaufland for affordable prices on staples like pasta, rice, and canned goods.
Tips and Tricks
- Eat where the locals eat: Avoid touristy areas and seek out local eateries and street vendors for authentic and affordable food.
- Try traditional dishes: Peka, čevapi, and burek are all delicious and budget-friendly options.
- Shop at markets and discount stores: Stock up on fresh produce and staples to save money and eat well.
TOP THINGS TO DO:
Zagreb:
- Ban Jelačić Square: Explore the heart of Zagreb’s old town, free admission.
- Zagreb Cathedral: Admire the stunning architecture, free admission.
- Museum of Broken Relationships: A quirky museum with a unique concept, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
- Dolac Market: Visit the bustling market for fresh produce and local goods, free admission.
- Take a stroll through the Upper Town: Explore the charming streets and historic buildings, free admission.
- Visit the Zagreb City Museum: Learn about the city’s history and culture, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
- Explore the Street Art Scene: Check out the vibrant street art in the city, free admission.
- Visit the Botanical Garden: Relax in the beautiful gardens, 10-20 HRK (~1-3 EUR) admission.
Split:
- Diocletian’s Palace: Explore the ancient palace, free admission.
- Bačvice Beach: Relax on the popular beach, free admission.
- Marjan Hill: Hike up for stunning views of the city, free admission.
- Green Market: Visit the bustling market for fresh produce and local goods, free admission.
- Take a stroll through the old town: Explore the charming streets and historic buildings, free admission.
- Visit the Split City Museum: Learn about the city’s history and culture, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
- Explore the Riva: Check out the vibrant waterfront promenade, free admission.
- Visit the Meštrović Gallery: See the works of famous Croatian sculptor Ivan Meštrović, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
Dubrovnik:
- Old City Walls: Walk along the ancient walls, 150 HRK (~20 EUR) admission.
- Lokrum Island: Take a ferry to the nearby island, 40 HRK (~5 EUR) admission.
- Stradun Street: Explore the charming street lined with historic buildings, free admission.
- Rector’s Palace: Admire the stunning architecture, 40 HRK (~5 EUR) admission.
- Take a stroll through the old town: Explore the charming streets and historic buildings, free admission.
- Visit the Dubrovnik City Museum: Learn about the city’s history and culture, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
- Explore the Old Harbor: Check out the historic harbor, free admission.
- Visit the Franciscan Monastery and Museum: See the historic monastery and museum, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
Plitvice Lakes National Park:
- Hike through the park: Explore the stunning lakes and waterfalls, 250 HRK (~35 EUR) admission.
- Take a boat ride: Ride across the largest lake, 50 HRK (~7 EUR) admission.
- Swim in the lakes: Refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters, free admission.
- Visit the Plitvice Lakes National Park Museum: Learn about the park’s history and geology, 20-30 HRK (~3-5 EUR) admission.
- Take a guided tour: Explore the park with a knowledgeable guide, 50-100 HRK (~7-14 EUR) admission.
Other:
- Visit local festivals: Experience Croatian culture at festivals like Ultra Europe or Split Summer Festival.
- Explore the countryside: Visit charming villages and historic sites, free admission.
- Take a hike: Explore Croatia’s beautiful nature on a hike, free admission.
- Visit the Krka National Park: Explore the stunning waterfalls and lakes, 110 HRK (~15 EUR) admission.
- Take a wine tour: Sample some of Croatia’s famous wines.
- Visit the Sibenik Cathedral: Admire the stunning architecture, free admission.
NIGHTLIFE:
Zagreb:
As the sun sets over Zagreb’s rooftops, the city transforms into a vibrant party scene. Start your night at the trendy bars in the Upper Town, like the cocktail lounge, Garden, or the speakeasy-style, Kaptol Boutique Bar. Then, head to the clubs in the Lower Town, like the iconic, The Best, or the underground, Močvara. If you’re looking for something more alternative, check out the punk rock scene at, Močvara, or the indie rock scene at, KSET. End your night with a delicious burger and a cold beer at, Submarine, a popular late-night spot.
Split:
Split’s nightlife is all about the Riva, the waterfront promenade that’s buzzing with energy every night. Start your evening with a sunset drink at one of the many bars, like the trendy, Central, or the beachy, Ovčice. Then, head to the clubs, like the massive, Bačvice, or the underground, Kocka. If you’re looking for something more low-key, check out the wine bars, like, Diocletian’s Wine House, or the craft beer bars, like, Craft Pub. End your night with a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants, like, Konoba Marjan.
Dubrovnik:
Dubrovnik’s nightlife is all about the old town, where the ancient walls and red-tiled roofs create a magical atmosphere. Start your night at one of the many bars, like the trendy, D’vino Wine Bar, or the cliffside, Buža Bar. Then, head to the clubs, like the stylish, Revelin, or the underground, Lazareti. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, check out the jazz clubs, like, Dizzy Jazz Club, or the wine bars, like, Wine Bar Dvino. End your night with a romantic dinner at one of the many restaurants, like, Restaurant 360.
Plitvice Lakes National Park:
While Plitvice Lakes National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, it’s also home to a lively nightlife scene. Start your evening with a sunset drink at one of the many bars, like the lakeside, Lička Kuća, or the foresty, Čardački Dvori. Then, head to the clubs, like the popular, Disco Club, or the underground, Klub Mladosti. If you’re looking for something more low-key, check out the campsite bars, like, Campsite Korana, or the village bars, like, Bar Kaptol. End your night with a delicious dinner at one of the many restaurants, like, Restaurant Lička Kuća.
BACKPACKING NA NACH COSTS:
Accommodation:
- Hostel dorm: $10-15 per night (€8-12)
- Camping: $5-10 per night (€4-8)
- Wild camping: free (but be aware of the risks and legalities)
Food:
- Fast food/street food: $3-5 per meal (€2.5-4)
- Grocery store: $10-20 per week (€8-16)
- Restaurant meal: $10-20 per meal (€8-16)
Transportation:
- Bus ticket: $5-10 per ride (€4-8)
- Train ticket: $10-20 per ride (€8-16)
- Hitchhiking: free (but be aware of the risks and legalities)
Attractions:
- National parks: $5-10 per person (€4-8)
- Museums: $5-10 per person (€4-8)
- Historical sites: $5-10 per person (€4-8)
Other expenses:
- Miscellaneous souvenirs: $10-20 per week (€8-16)
- Laundry: $5-10 per week (€4-8)
- Other unexpected expenses: $10-20 per week (€8-16)
Total daily budget:
- $15-25 per day (€12-20)