21 Days Exploring Croatia and the French Riviera Itinerary

Begin your day with a boat trip to Elaphite Islands. These islands are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring small villages. The clear waters and serene environment make it an ideal morning getaway.

Return to Dubrovnik in the afternoon and visit the Museum of Croatian War of Independence (Homeland War Museum). This museum provides deep insights into Croatia's recent history. For lunch, try Vinodol, which offers traditional Croatian dishes.

In the evening, explore more of Dubrovnik's historical sites with a visit to Rector's Palace (Knezev Dvor). This Gothic-Renaissance palace now houses a museum with various artifacts. End your day with dinner at Boban, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

Start your day with an excursion to Lokrum Island, just a short ferry ride from Dubrovnik. The island is home to beautiful botanical gardens, peacocks, and historic ruins. It's an excellent spot for hiking or simply relaxing by the sea.

After returning from Lokrum Island, head to the Ethnographic Museum (Rupe Museum) in Dubrovnik's old granary building. It offers fascinating exhibits on local culture and traditions. For lunch, visit Mali Bar for some contemporary Croatian cuisine.

Spend your evening exploring more of Dubrovnik's cultural heritage with a visit to Sponza Palace (Palaca Sponza), which now serves as an archive but is open for tours showcasing its beautiful architecture. Enjoy dinner at Takenoko, offering exquisite Japanese-Croatian fusion dishes.

Travel from Dubrovnik to Split early in the morning (approximately 3 hours by car or bus). Upon arrival in Split, start your exploration with a visit to Diocletian's Palace. This ancient palace complex is one of Split's most famous landmarks and offers numerous historical sites within its walls.

Continue your historical journey by visiting the nearby Cathedral of St. Dominus (Katedrala Svetog Duje), located within Diocletian's Palace complex. It's one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals still in use today. For lunch, dine at Zinfandel's Restaurant, known for its elegant setting and delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the famous Riva Promenade (Riva Split Waterfront). Enjoy people-watching as you sip on cocktails at one of the many bars along this vibrant waterfront area before heading out for dinner at another local favorite restaurant.

Begin your day with a visit to Split Old Town. This area is filled with charming streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets. It's best explored in the morning when it's less crowded.

After exploring the old town, head to Peristyle Square (Peristil). This ancient Roman square is surrounded by impressive architecture and offers a glimpse into Split's rich history. For lunch, try Vinodol, which offers traditional Croatian dishes.

In the evening, visit Riva Promenade (Riva Split Waterfront). This lively waterfront area is perfect for an evening stroll and offers numerous bars and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at Mali Bar, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

Start your day with a trip to Marjan, a beautiful park offering hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and historical sites. It's a great place to enjoy nature and get some exercise.

After returning from Marjan, visit the Mestrovic Gallery (Galerija Mestrovic). This art museum showcases the works of renowned Croatian sculptor Ivan Mestrovic. For lunch, dine at Takenoko, offering exquisite Japanese-Croatian fusion dishes.

Spend your evening exploring more of Split's cultural heritage with a visit to Temple of Jupiter, an ancient Roman temple located within Diocletian's Palace complex. Enjoy dinner at Dubravkin Put, known for its excellent seafood dishes.

Begin your day with a boat trip to the nearby islands. The From Split Blue Cave & Five Islands With Hvar Boat Tour is highly recommended for its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters.

Return to Split in the afternoon and relax at Bacvice Beach, one of the city's most popular beaches. It's perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying beachside cafes. For lunch, try Boban, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the famous Riva Promenade (Riva Split Waterfront). Enjoy people-watching as you sip on cocktails at one of the many bars along this vibrant waterfront area before heading out for dinner at another local favorite restaurant.

Travel from Split to Zadar early in the morning (approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or bus). Upon arrival in Zadar, start your exploration with a visit to Zadar Roman Forum. This ancient site offers fascinating insights into Zadar's history.

Continue your historical journey by visiting the nearby Church of St. Donatus, one of Zadar's most iconic landmarks. For lunch, dine at one of Zadar's highly-rated restaurants such as Pet Bunara or Kornat Restaurant.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Zadar's waterfront promenade and enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of the Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje). End your day with dinner at another local favorite restaurant.

Start your day with a visit to the Sea Organ (Morske Orgulje). This unique architectural sound art object plays music by way of sea waves and tubes located underneath a set of large marble steps. It's a peaceful and mesmerizing experience, perfect for a morning visit.

After enjoying the Sea Organ, head to the Zadar Roman Forum. This ancient site offers fascinating insights into Zadar's history. For lunch, dine at Pet Bunara, known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Zadar's waterfront promenade and enjoy the sunset at the Zadar Sunset Boat Tour with a Glass of Prosecco. End your day with dinner at Kornat Restaurant, offering exquisite seafood dishes.

Zadar Guided City Walking Tour is an excellent way to start your day. This tour will take you through Zadar's rich history and cultural heritage, visiting key landmarks and hidden gems.

Zadar Half-Day Boat Trip to Ošljak Island, Galevac & Ugljan is perfect for an afternoon adventure. These islands offer beautiful landscapes, clear waters, and charming villages. For lunch, try one of the local eateries on the islands.

Museum of Illusions Zadar is a fun and intriguing place to visit in the evening. It offers interactive exhibits that are both entertaining and educational. Enjoy dinner at another highly-rated restaurant in Zadar.

Zagreb 360 Observation Deck (Zagreb Eye) offers panoramic views of Zagreb and is an excellent way to start your day. The observation deck provides stunning views of the city skyline.

Mirogoj Cemetery is one of Zagreb's most beautiful cemeteries, known for its impressive architecture and serene atmosphere. For lunch, dine at Vinodol, which offers traditional Croatian dishes.

Museum of Broken Relationships (Muzej Prekinutih Veza) is a unique museum that showcases personal objects left over from former lovers along with brief descriptions. It's both touching and thought-provoking. Enjoy dinner at Mali Bar, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.

Start your day with a visit to Stone Gate (Kamenita Vrata), one of Zagreb’s most important landmarks which houses a chapel dedicated to Virgin Mary within it.

Head over to Strossmayer Promenade (Strossmayerovo Setaliste), which offers beautiful views over Lower Town (Donji Grad). For lunch stop by Bistro Apetit by Marin Rendić known for its elegant setting & delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Spend your evening exploring more historical sites like Lotrscak Tower[17956], from where you can enjoy panoramic views over Zagreb before heading out for dinner at another local favorite restaurant.

Start your day with a visit to Zagreb Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This iconic Gothic-style cathedral is one of the tallest buildings in Croatia and offers stunning architecture and history.

After exploring the cathedral, head to Dolac Market, a bustling open-air market where you can experience local life and sample fresh produce. For lunch, dine at Restoran Lanterna na Dolcu, known for its traditional Croatian dishes.

Croatian National Theatre (HNK Zagreb) is a must-visit in the evening. This beautiful theater hosts various performances, including opera, ballet, and drama. Enjoy dinner at RougeMarin, offering a contemporary twist on Croatian cuisine.

Promenade des Anglais is an excellent way to start your day in Nice. This famous promenade stretches along the Mediterranean coast and offers beautiful views, perfect for a morning walk or bike ride.

Nice Old Town (Vieux Nice) is next on your list. Wander through its narrow streets filled with colorful buildings, shops, and cafes. For lunch, try La Merenda, known for its authentic Niçoise cuisine.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château) offers panoramic views over Nice and the Baie des Anges. It's a great spot to watch the sunset before heading out for dinner at Jan, which offers an exquisite dining experience.

Massena Square (Place Masséna) is a great place to start your day. This central square is surrounded by beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Marc Chagall National Museum (Musée National Marc Chagall) showcases an extensive collection of works by Marc Chagall. For lunch, dine at Peixes, known for its fresh seafood dishes.

Fort du Mont Alban offers stunning views over Nice and the surrounding area. It's a perfect spot for an evening visit before enjoying dinner at Le Chantecler, renowned for its gourmet French cuisine.

Île Sainte-Marguerite is a perfect morning destination. This island offers beautiful nature trails, historic sites, and stunning views of the Mediterranean.

Castre Museum (Musée de la Castre) is a great place to explore in the afternoon. This museum is housed in a medieval castle and offers fascinating exhibits on local history and culture. For lunch, dine at L'Affable, known for its delicious French cuisine.

La Croisette Boulevard (Boulevard de la Croisette) is perfect for an evening stroll. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and luxury shops before heading out for dinner at Le Caveau 30, offering exquisite seafood dishes.

Monte Carlo Casino (Casino de Monte-Carlo) is an iconic landmark to start your day with. Explore its opulent interiors and try your luck at the tables.

Prince's Palace (Palais Princier de Monaco) offers a glimpse into Monaco's royal heritage. For lunch, dine at one of Monaco's highly-rated restaurants such as Le Louis XV - Alain Ducasse à l'Hôtel de Paris.

Oceanographic Museum (Musee Oceanographique) is a must-visit in the evening. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on marine life and oceanography. Enjoy dinner at another local favorite restaurant.

Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica (La Bonne Mère) offers stunning views over Marseille and is an excellent way to start your day.

Old Port of Marseille (Vieux Port) is next on your list. Wander through this historic port area filled with shops, cafes, and beautiful views. For lunch, dine at La Petite Maison, known for its delicious Mediterranean cuisine.

Chateau d'If is a must-visit in the evening. This historic fortress offers fascinating history and stunning views over the sea. Enjoy dinner at another highly-rated restaurant in Marseille.

Marseille History Museum (Musee d'Histoire) is a great place to start your final day. This museum offers fascinating exhibits on Marseille's rich history, from ancient times to the present.

Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (Le Mucem) is perfect for an afternoon visit. This modern museum showcases the cultural heritage of Europe and the Mediterranean. For lunch, dine at La Brouette de Grand-Mere, known for its traditional French cuisine.

Vallon des Auffes is a charming fishing port that offers a picturesque setting for an evening stroll. Enjoy dinner at Astoux et Brun, renowned for its seafood dishes.