GREECE AND CROATIA

When to visit Croatia and Greece

This is a little tricky, as these two countries have different climates,s and Croatia is somewhat cooler than Greece.

With over 220 islands and some of the best beaches in the world, many people love to visit Greece in Summer. If you also want to enjoy the islands and beaches of Croatia, then that’s when to do it—between June and September.

The warm weather lasts longer in Greece though – well into November in some places, whereas water temperatures in Croatia become cold much earlier.

If you are mostly interested in sightseeing, hiking and history then April-June and September-October are the best times for both,  when the weather is mild and the crowds are generally low.

How long for each?

We recommend at least 9 days for each country, but 12 days or more is better. Both have a lot to see and do, and travelling between destinations, especially the islands, is time-consuming and can eat into your time.

The following itinerary is for first-timers and for travel between June and September, when there are flights between Santorini and Dubrovnik.

If it is outside this time,e it is recommended to fly direct to Santorini first and then Athens, where there are flights to Dubrovnik, Zagreb and sometimes Split, year-round.

Ideally, the itinerary would look something like this:

3 nights – Athens

1 –  Meteora  – Take the train, drive or do a tour

3 –  Naxos – Return to Athens and fly to Naxos ( a 25-minute flight)

3 – Santorini – Ferry from Naxos (1.5–2 hours)

3 nights – Dubrovnik – Fly from Santorini or Athens.

3 – Korčula – Ferry from Dubrovnik to Korčula Town (approx. 2 hours by catamaran). 

3 – Hvar – Catch a ferry from Korčula to Hvar (about 1.5 hours). 

3 – Split – Ferry from Hvar to Split (1 hour).

1 – Plitvice Lakes – Rent a car or take a bus north to the national park (approx. 3.5–4.5 hours). Stay overnight to beat the crowds and see both Upper and Lower Lakes.

2 – Zagreb – Finish in the capital (2.5–3 hours from Plitvice).

Greece

Athens

There are several ways to get to Athens, which covers air, sea, rail, driving and even on foot. Once you’ve arrived it’s easy enough to get into the city centre and having a private driver waiting for you is our favourite way to do it!

Apart from the many things you can do in Athens including great shopping, incredible food, and all the ancient sites there is also great nightlife with a plethora of bars, tavernas, and clubs to choose from. There are a lot of new hotels and restaurants many with incredible rooftop views, especially of the Acropolis.

The Acropolis Museum is world-class and needs to be enjoyed either before or after you visit the Acropolis so it’s the perfect activity for your second day. Make sure you read our complete guide for lots of great tips including how to beat the crowds!

Where to stay in Athens

💑 Hotels for Couples

Zillers Hotel has only 10 rooms and some have amazing Acropolis views. There is a lovely rooftop bar and restaurant and it’s right on Mitropolous dining street. Also check out The Foundry Suites in Psiri which is a very cool converted former Foundry with lots of retro elements.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Hotels

The Pinnacle is a 2 bedroom suite that sleeps 6 or these Twin Lofts can sleep up to 12!

🧳 Hotels for Solo Travellers

I love to stay at Ergon House when I’m on my own. Its across from Zillers and part of the famous Ergon House food emporiums. They have a small business centre and very helpful and attentive staff.

Things to do in Athens

• A walking food tour – the best in Greece
• wander down Ermou Pedestrian Street
• Visit Syntagma Square and see Parliament House and the Changing of the Greek Presidential Guard – the Evzones
• explore Plaka and the many cafes, shops and galleries
• stop by the Monastaraki flea market
• Visit the Acropolis either as early or as late as possible. Read our Full Guide on how to do this and the Museum.
• Visit the Acropolis Museum
• Stroll through the National Gardens and see the Temple of Zeus
• Take in an open-air concert at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus
• Spend time before, during or instead of a concert in the lively area of Psiri including a visit to the aptly named Little Kook!

 Meteora

The complex is made up of twenty-four Eastern Orthodox monasteries that were built on giant sandstone rock pillars between the 14th and 16th centuries. Six of them are still in use today and can be visited by the public.

This UNESCO world heritage site is truly one of the most remarkable and visually beautiful places you will visit anywhere in the world. Even if you only have 1 night to spare on your trip to Greece you will not regret the effort to visit Meteora.

How to get to Meteora from Athens

There are a couple of ways to get to Meteora: either by signing up for one of the numerous guided Meteora tours from Athens, by using the train and the bus, hiring a private driver or driving yourself and staying a night or two in the city of Kalambaka or the village of Kastraki, and visiting the monasteries at your own pace.

On one of our visits, we actually flew from Athens to the lovely town of Ioannina, where we hired a car and drove to Kastraki which took about 90 minutes.

It takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Athens, or you can catch a train and bus, which takes about 4 hours. It’s a beautiful drive and is surprisingly easy with a modern, well-kept road and little traffic. We highly recommend this, as there is a lot to do and see in the area!

Further reading: Driving in Greece

Where to stay in Meteora

Doupiani Hotel, Kastraki – great for all types of travellers and one of the closest hotels to the Monasteries as well as having incredible views of them. In fact, it is feasible to walk to two of the monasteries from the hotel with not too much effort.

Things to do in Meteora

It’s all about the Monasterie,s although the area is very pretty and home to a number of lovely things to see and do. Read our complete guide to Meteora, including how to visit each Monastery and what they each represent.

Despite being such a large island it has a small local population and there is a surprisingly wide array of things to see and do. It’s a very laid back destination and its easy to see why Naxos is so popular, especially with families.

It’s also a very affordable island and represents great value for money for all types of travellers.

How to get to Naxos

Most people travel to Naxos from Santorini by ferry, which takes about 2 hours. There are several ferries each day, year-round. The main town of Chora is also the main port.

It is possible to fly, but you will need to connect with another flight back at Athens airport.

Where to stay in Naxos

💑 Romantic Hotels for Couples

A huge favourite with our Facebook group members is Hotel Grotta, who have a great day spa and indoor pool, serves an amazing breakfast and is world famous for their generous warmth and hospitality. For a luxury stay there’s a lot to love about Nissaki Beach Hotel, which is right behind Agios Georgios Beach and has a beachfront restaurant and swimming pool, 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Hotels

Ippokampos apartments are in the Chora and can sleep up to 5, while Aegean Land has 2-bedroom apartments right on the beach at Plaka. Also check out Georgia Mare, which is right next to St George beach, a short walk into town and surrounded by some of the best bars and tavernas on Naxos. Many rooms have sea views, and they have a 2-bedroom apartment that sleeps four as well.

🧳 Hotels for Solo Travellers

Mystique of Naxos is right near the beach in the Chora and has stunning rooms and a great little rooftop pool, and sundeck. You can walk to everything and it’s very affordable too!

Things to do in Naxos

• Explore the Chora, including the Old Market
• Visit the Kastro
• drop into the Bazeos Tower
• spend some time at the Folklore Museum
• Visit the Portara at sunset
• Wander down to Saint George Beach for a swim and perhaps stay for dinner
• Hire a car and explore the charming mountain villages.
• Visit some of the other wonderful beaches on the island
• See the port and the tiny island Church at Panagia Myrtidiotissa
• See the remains of one of the famous Kouros Satues in Melanes
• learn about the famous Naxian food on a half-day cooking class in a local taverna
• If you don’t want to rent a car a fantastic alternative activity is a boat trip around the Small Cyclades Islands.

 Santorini

We love to stay in Oia which is considered the most picturesque village, although a lot of people also enjoy Imerovigli which is about a 20-minute walk along the nice flat footpath that runs along the Caldera seam. For a truly authentic Greek experience consider staying in the interior village of Pyrgos.

There are a surprising amount of things to do on Santorini with beaches, wineries, hot springs, great shopping and some of the worlds most iconic and photographed sunsets. 

How to get to Santorini

You can travel to Santorini by ferry or by plane from Athens. Return to Athens from Meteora either on your overnight tour, by driving or by train.

The small international airport has several flights to Athens a day as well as regular flights in summer from other European destinations like Rome and England. Check flight schedules HERE.

There are also many ferries each day, year-round. Most service either the Western or Eastern Cyclades Islands and on to Athens, whilst some come from Crete.

TIP: Both the port and the airport can be very busy in summer, and there can be long waits for the cablecar, taxis and donkeys. It pays to have a private transfer waiting for you!

Where to stay in Santorini

💑 Hotels for Couples

Ducato Di Oia ( adults only) suites in Oia or Above Blue Suites in Imerovigli for more isolation and at a lower price point.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Hotels

White Harmony Suites have 2-bedroom suites or Theoxenia Boutique Hotel have squad rooms and is not far from, dare I say it, McDonald’s.

🧳 Hotels for Solo Travellers

Kivotos in Imerovigli for a splurge or Abelonas Retreat on a budget.

Things to do in Santorini

• Book a private tour with Nikos – our trusted partner and local expert who can show you all the highlights, and more
• Explore the maze of streets in Oia, including Panagia Platsani Church
• Check out the many upmarket boutiques and jewellery shops in Oia
• walk down to Oia Castle
• Tour the world-renowned wineries with a sommelier
• Do wine tasting AND a cooking class
• swim at Black Beach, Red Beach and Kamari Beaches
• Visit authentic Pyrgos village and see what Santorini is like for locals
• Attend a ‘traditional’ Greek wedding!
• Have a professional photographic session done – hard to beat the backdrop!

Croatia

How to get to Greece from Croatia

Since no direct ferries travel between Greece and Croatia, the only option you have is by air or overland.

By Air
The fastest route is flying. You can book a direct or connecting flight from cities like Zagreb or Dubrovnik to Athens or other major Greek hubs.
There are also seasonal flights between the two in summer that look something like this:

Split (SPU) to Athens (ATH):

• Aegean Airlines: Operates direct flights four times per week.

• Volotea: Offers direct flights on select days.

• Croatia Airlines: Provides direct flights on certain days. Direct Flights

Dubrovnik (DBV) to Athens (ATH):

• Aegean Airlines, Volotea, and Croatia Airlines: All offer direct flights on various days.

Zagreb (ZAG) to Athens (ATH):

• Aegean Airlines: Operates direct flights.

• Croatia Airlines: Offers direct flights.

By Road (Car or Bus)
If you’re up for a road trip, you can drive or take an international bus. The route will likely have you crossing Serbia, Bulgaria, and maybe even a smidge of North Macedonia—so pack your snacks and your best playlist.

By Ferry (and a Little Bit of Land Travel)
Direct ferries from Croatia to Greece are rare, but you can combine options. For instance, take a ferry from Croatia to Italy (ports like Ancona or Bari come to mind) and then hop on another ferry from Italy to Greece (landing in places like Igoumenitsa or Patras).

This method lets you savour the Mediterranean waters but requires a bit of planning between schedules.

The rich past of Dubrovnik is still visible in the architecture of its Old Town, packed with historical landmarks and scenic spots that have been used as movie and TV series filming locations – in particular, the popular Game of Thrones has countless scenes shot in the city.

Dubrovnik is not only a cultural destination; located on a gorgeous stretch of coastline, the city boasts breathtaking beaches and access to multiple islands, including Lokrum, Mljet, and Korčula. 

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

💑 Romantic Hotels for Couples

Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik
Just a short stroll from the Old Town, this iconic seafront hotel delivers jaw-dropping Adriatic views, fine dining, and five-star romance.

Hotel Bellevue Dubrovnik
Built into a cliff with floor-to-ceiling sea views and a private beach, this chic boutique hotel is a quiet, romantic escape above the Adriatic.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Hotels for families and groups

Sun Gardens Dubrovnik
A beachfront resort with spacious family apartments, kids’ clubs, pools and enough dining options to keep everyone happy.

Royal Princess Hotel
This all-suite clifftop hotel offers large rooms, interconnected options and an easy coastal path to Lapad Bay for family walks.

🧳 Hotels for Solo Travellers:

St. Joseph’s Boutique Hotel
A quiet, character-filled hotel tucked into Dubrovnik’s Old Town with friendly hosts and everything within walking distance.

Scalini Palace
A modern, great-value spot right inside the city walls with clean rooms, strong Wi-Fi and plenty of buzz outside your door.

Things to do in Dubrovnik

One of Dubrovnik’s best sites is the imposing city walls, which encircle the entire old town. The defensive walls are 2 km long, and you must purchase a ticket to walk them, but the experience is worth the money. 

Dubrovnik’s Old Town is made up of a network of cobblestone streets that are perfect to explore on foot. Some iconic spots are hidden here and there, starting from the Stradun, the city’s main street. It is lined with 17th-century buildings in baroque style, and it is packed with cafes and restaurants.

Another unmissable spot in the Old Town, if you are a Game of Thrones fan, is the Jesuits’ stairs, where the famous “Walk of Shame” scene was filmed. Other fantastic historic spots in the Old Town are the Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Church of St. Ignatius, both built in the 1700s and boasting Baroque architecture. 

The UNESCO-listed Dubrovnik also has several excellent museums:

The Cultural History Museum, housed in the stunning Rector’s Palace, is perfect for those interested in learning more about the city’s mercantile past.

To dive further into its history, you can also check out the:

• • Maritime Museum Dubrovnik,
  • The Red History Museum
  • Homeland War Museum.

Another city attraction is the funicular to the Srđ Mountain, from the top of which you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views.

We recommend 3 nights in Dubrovnik.

Split, Croatia, is best known for Diocletian’s Palace—a sprawling Roman complex that forms the city’s old town. It’s a mix of ancient history and modern life, where locals sip coffee in 1,700-year-old courtyards and markets spill out onto marble alleys.

Split is a springboard to the Dalmatian islands like Hvar and Brač, but it’s also easy to access its beaches, buzzing waterfront promenade (Riva), and lively cultural scene, which makes it a destination in its own right.

We recommend 3 nights in Split if possible.

Where to stay in Split

💑 Hotels for Couples

Hotel Park Split
A heritage property right next to Bačvice Beach, offering old-world elegance with a modern twist.

Hotel Villa Harmony
Steps from Bačvice Beach and walking distance to the old town, this boutique hotel has a mini-spa, sauna, and pool.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Hotels for families and groups

Heritage Hotel Santa Lucia
In the heart of the Old Town, this stylish hotel offers spacious family rooms, a central courtyard, and easy access to everything.

Makarun Heritage Rooms
Tucked inside the pedestrian streets of the Old Town, these rooms are roomy, quiet, and well-equipped. Families love the location and generous breakfasts.

Pylon Rooms
Right near Diocletian’s Palace, this property provides connected family rooms, helpful staff, and airport shuttle services.

🧳 Hotel for Solo Travellers

Central Square Heritage Hotel
An elegant stay in the heart of Split, offering stylish rooms within walking distance of everything. Well-reviewed by solo travellers for its safety, location, and friendly staff.

Things to do in Split

• First and foremost, do a Walking Tour of the Old Town and Diocletian’s Palace –  a must-see, a UNESCO-listed site dating back to 305 CE. Commissioned by the Roman emperor Diocletian, it is an entire complex of around 220 buildings sprawling across the Old Town. 
• Diocletian’s Palace also houses the Split City Museum, the perfect place to learn about the city’s history.
• The Cathedral of Saint Domnius. The most notable feature of this 13th-century church is its bell tower. The cathedral, which is the oldest Catholic Cathedral in the world and has a historic mausoleum. 
• The Ivan Mestrovic Gallery -dedicated to the namesake 20th-century Croatian sculptor and housed inside Ivan Mestrovic’s neoclassic mansion. 
• Stroll the Riva, the seaside promenade lined with boutiques and restaurants
• Enjoy one of the beaches just outside the city centre.
• Hike or cycle on Marjan Hill
• Do a guided, illuminated, evening Kayking Tour
• A day trip to Plitvice Lakes (if you can’t stay a night, or visit from Zadar)

The area’s geology is truly unique with streams and waterfalls connecting the 16 lakes. The park is divided into two sections: the Upper Lakes, with 12 lakes, and the Lower Lakes, with 4 lakes. The lakes are formed by natural travertine dams responsible for the breathtaking colors of the waters, ranging from turquoise to green to gray.

Wooden pathways in the Lower Lakes area are inside a 40-meter-deep limestone gorge, which includes lakes with shallow waters and many stunning viewpoints. Right next to the Lower Lakes is the Veliki Slap Waterfall, which cascades from 78 meters in height. The hiking routes through the Upper Lakes boast lush vegetation and more awesome waterfalls.

You cannot swim in the lakes but there are boat trips available, which are particularly good for people with limited mobility.

The Plitvice Lakes National Park is also home to wildlife, including deer, foxes, and bears so if you stay a night or two in this area you won’t be disappointed, especially if you are a nature lover.

You can visit Plitvice Lakes from both Zadar and Split as a day trip but we do recommend an overnight stay if possible. The countryside is quite different to the coastal cities and the islands.

Where to stay in Plitvice Lakes:

💑Couples – Hotel Plitvice: A charming retro-modern hotel right next to the park entrance, perfect for couples wanting comfort with unbeatable access to the trails.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families – Plitvice Village : A countryside resort with a swimming pool, tennis court, playground and family rooms.
🧳Solo Travellers – Plitvice Studio Sara: A cosy, affordable studio just minutes from Entrance 2, great for solo travellers on a nature escape.

Korčula is a captivating island on Croatia’s Dalmatian coast, often referred to as a mini-Dubrovnik for its fortified medieval town and red-roofed stone buildings. Set against the vivid blues of the Adriatic, it’s rich in history, culture, and laid-back charm. The island is famous for its ties to explorer Marco Polo, who locals claim was born here—though Venice begs to differ.

Within the old town walls, you’ll find Gothic-Renaissance architecture, buzzing piazzas, and atmospheric wine bars. Beyond the town, Korčula boasts pine-fringed beaches, olive groves, and family-run vineyards producing the local white, Grk.

The island is perfect for cycling, kayaking, or simply swimming in its clear, pebbly coves. Day trips to nearby islets like Badija or Vrnik are easy to arrange and worth the detour. While tourism has grown, Korčula still retains its authentic feel—traditional sword dances and village feasts are very much alive.

It’s quieter than Hvar, but with just as much soul—ideal for travellers who want beauty, history, and a slower pace.

How to get to Korcula

From Split:
High-speed passenger ferries (catamarans) operated by companies like Kapetan Luka, Jadrolinija, and TP Line connect Split to Korčula Town, Prigradica, and Vela Luka. These services are most frequent between June and September, with up to seven daily departures, and the fastest journeys take approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes.

For those travelling by car, a car ferry from Split to Vela Luka is available, with the drive from Split to the ferry port taking about 3.5 hours via the E65 road

From Dubrovnik:
Fast passenger ferries operated by TP Line, Krilo Kapetan Luka, and Jadrolinija connect Dubrovnik to Korčula Town, with journey times ranging from 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours 35 minutes. During peak season, there are up to six or seven sailings per day

Alternatively, travellers can drive to Orebić on the Pelješac Peninsula and take a short 15-minute car ferry to Dominče, near Korčula Town. This route is particularly convenient for those with vehicles

From Zagreb:
Direct overnight buses connect Zagreb to Korčula, offering a straightforward option for visitors from the capital.

Regardless of your starting point, it’s advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during the busy summer months, to ensure availability and secure preferred departure times.

Where to stay in Korcula

💑Couples – Aminess Korčula Heritage Hotel: A romantic seafront gem in the Old Town with historic charm and dreamy Adriatic views.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families – Aminess Port9 Residence: Family-friendly apartments with pools and beach access, offering space and convenience near Korčula Town.
🧳Solo Travellers – Zuviteo Residence: Central, stylish, and peaceful—perfect for solo travellers wanting to explore Korčula on foot.

Hvar is one of Croatia’s most glamorous and sun-soaked islands, known for its lively town, crystal-clear waters, and a blend of hedonism and heritage.

The main town, also called Hvar, is a mix of Venetian architecture, buzzing cafes, and high-end yachts bobbing in the harbour. Yet beyond the parties and polished promenade lies a rich cultural core—centuries-old fortresses, a 17th-century theatre, and quiet cobblestone lanes radiating from St. Stephen’s Square.

The island gets more sunshine than almost anywhere else in Croatia, making it a hotspot for beach lovers. Its coastline is dotted with secluded coves, pine-backed pebble beaches, and the Pakleni Islands—a short boat ride away and perfect for day trips.

Venture inland and you’ll find lavender fields, olive groves, and charming villages like Stari Grad and Vrboska, which offer a slower, more traditional pace. Wine lovers are well catered for too, with local vineyards producing robust reds and crisp whites unique to the island’s rocky terroir.

Whether you’re here to hike the coastal trails, dine under the stars, or just soak up the Adriatic sun, Hvar delivers an effortlessly seductive mix of natural beauty, island culture, and modern indulgence.

How to get to Hvar

From Split
Passenger catamarans operated by Jadrolinija, TP Line, and Kapetan Luka run frequently between Split and Hvar Town, with travel times around one hour. During summer, up to 17 departures a day are available.

If you’re travelling by car, ferries operate between Split and Stari Grad on Hvar Island, and take about two hours. From there, it’s roughly a 30-minute drive to Hvar Town.

From Dubrovnik
Fast ferries connect Dubrovnik to Hvar Town from April to October, with journey times of about 3.5 hours. These are for foot passengers only.
If driving an alternative is to head north to Drvenik (about 2.5 hours by car), then take a short ferry to Sućuraj on Hvar’s eastern tip, followed by a drive across the island.

From Zagreb
The most common route is to take a bus or train to Split—both take around 5–6 hours—then transfer to a ferry or catamaran for the final leg to Hvar. The whole trip takes around 9 hours, depending on connections.

Where to stay in Hvar

💑Couples – Hotel Moeesy: A luxe beachfront escape with spa vibes and serene gardens, just a stroll from Hvar Town.
👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families –  Valamar Amicor Resort: A sustainable resort with villa-style stays and kid-friendly facilities in relaxed Stari Grad.
🧳 Hotel for Solo Travellers – Oleander Apartment & Room Centar: A well-priced, well-located Old Town stay with everything a solo traveller needs nearby.

Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, is a city where Central European elegance meets a relaxed Mediterranean spirit.

Often overlooked in favour of the coast, Zagreb rewards visitors with a rich mix of Austro-Hungarian architecture, leafy parks, vibrant café culture, and a creative energy that pulses through its streets.

The Upper Town (Gornji Grad) is the city’s historic heart, with cobbled lanes, gas-lit street lamps, and landmarks like St. Mark’s Church and Lotrščak Tower. It contrasts with the Lower Town (Donji Grad), a more modern grid of grand boulevards, museums, galleries, and art deco buildings.

It’s compact and walkable, with efficient trams and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re into history, food, street art, or just people-watching over coffee, Zagreb is quietly cool and surprisingly charismatic. It’s also a great starting point for exploring Croatia’s interior or catching a train or bus to the coast or neighbouring countries.

Where to stay in Zagreb

💑 Hotels for Couples

Esplanade Zagreb Hotel
A historic 5-star hotel offering timeless elegance, luxurious rooms, and fine dining, perfect for a romantic getaway. 

Amadria Hotel Capital
A boutique heritage hotel with stylish interiors and exceptional service, situated in the heart of Zagreb.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Hotels

Hotel Jarun
Located near Lake Jarun, this hotel offers spacious rooms and easy access to family-friendly activities. 

MKR Family Room
Situated in the city centre, this accommodation provides comfortable family rooms with modern amenities.

🧳 Hotels for Solo Travellers

Hotel 9
A boutique hotel offering modern rooms and a convenient location near the main bus station, ideal for solo travellers.  

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