Croatia road trip — Dubrovnik, Hvar & Plitvice

Croatia road trip — Dubrovnik, Hvar & Plitvice

There are trips that change you. Croatia was one of them. From the very first moment, this destination captivated me—the colors, the scents, the hospitality of the people. In this travelogue, I'll take you along on my personal journey of discovery, with culinary highlights, the most beautiful photo spots, and practical tips.

What impressed me most? The diversity. Whether you're a beach lover, enjoy hiking, or simply want to savor the local cuisine—Croatia has it all. And the best part: it's not yet as overrun as many other destinations.

Arrival and first impressions

Getting there from Germany is straightforward. Depending on the season, flights cost between 100 and 500 euros. As soon as I arrived at the airport, I was captivated by the atmosphere. I had arranged a rental car – the freedom to stop spontaneously is priceless to me.

My first hotel was a small boutique hotel — charming, personal, and with a fantastic breakfast. Fresh fruit, local cheese, homemade bread. That's how a travel morning should begin.

Culinary Highlights

For me, getting to know a culture always begins with the food. Croatia absolutely won me over culinarily. The local cuisine is a blend of traditional recipes and modern influences—fresh ingredients, centuries-old techniques, and passion in every bite.

My highlight was a family-run restaurant recommended by the hotel owner. No website, no Instagram, just a handwritten menu. The owner cooked herself, and every course was a feast. You'll find the best restaurants through word of mouth—ask the locals.

The most beautiful photo spots

As a visual storyteller, I look for places that tell a story. Croatia has plenty of them. Especially in the morning, during the golden hour, you'll find the most magical moments. My tip: visit popular spots outside of peak hours.

Practical tips

Best time to travel

Spring or autumn. Pleasant temperatures, fewer tourists, lower prices.

budget

Position	Cost per day
Accommodation	60-120 €
Eat	25-45 €
transport	25-40 €
Activities	10-30 €
In total	120-235 €

My conclusion

Croatia surprised, inspired, and delighted me with its culinary offerings. I will definitely be back.

FAQ

Safe for women traveling alone?

Yes, I never felt unsafe at any point.

How many days?

Minimum 5, ideally 7-10 days.

Credit card or cash?

Hotels: Map. Markets: Cash. Carry 50-100 euros in local currency.

Best app?

Google Maps offline, Booking.com, local ride-hailing app.

About the author: Janet Dannehl is one of Germany's most influential travel influencers with over 2.3 million followers. She specializes in lifestyle, culinary topics, and visual stories from her travels. Cooperation requests here.