Hiking in Croatia: An Epic 7-Day Adventure Hiking Croatia’s Dalmatian Islands and Beyond
Imagine: You’re hiking in Croatia along an olive tree-lined trail to an epic view overlooking the islands of the Dalmatian Coast, and plan to end the day with a refreshing dip in the crystal clear, blue waters of the Adriatic Sea. If that’s your cup of gemišt, then you’re in the right place! Here’s everything to know about hiking in Croatia, including the best trails in the Dalmatian Islands, how to get there, where to stay, and more.
Hey adventurers! I love recommending the gear and stays that I'm stoked about and use on the regular. As such, this post contains affiliate links to some of the products I love, and I'll receive commission upon any purchases made through those links at no expense to you.
Table of Contents
At a Glance
Population: ~4 million
Size: 21,851 mi²
Location: Northwestern part of the Balkan Peninsula.
Language: Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken.
Currency: Kuna (Soon to be Euros)
Fun Facts:
The tie, torpedo, and parachute were all invented right here in Croatia.
It’s home of the world's biggest truffle!
I love recommending the gear and stays that I'm stoked about. As such, this post contains affiliate links, and I'll receive commission upon any purchases made through those links at no expense to you.
What is Dalmatia?
I’m so glad you asked. Dalmatia is the narrow stretch of land on Croatia’s east coast that borders the Adriatic Sea, but it’s much more than just a spot on a map. Dalmatia is a culture and identity the locals have been celebrating since 1000 BCE. If I had to put it into words, it’d be a laid back, easy going vibe. Enjoying life is at the center of it all. But this mentality and culture is something you’ll have to experience for yourself.
You might hear pomalo and fjaka during your adventure.
Pomalo means “slowly,” or is often used to say “take it easy.” A reminder to slow down and enjoy life–there’s no need to rush.
Fjaka is a state of body and mind. It’s described as the sweetness of doing nothing, and is often mistakenly confused with laziness.
Both are super important to Croatian culture, and bringing those mentalities with you on your adventure (and incorporating them into the rest of your life) is a sure way to have the most amazing time. It’s changed the way I look at this beautiful planet, I hope you find the same!
The History
You can’t go to Croatia without learning a bit of its history. Not only is it a HUGE piece of their culture, but it’s also literally not possible. Croatians have a love for their country like I’ve never seen before. They love sharing its rich history, and their love for its mountains and sea with anyone willing to listen and learn. It’s so beautiful to experience the passion in their stories and their connection to their home. In case you haven’t had the opportunity to meet a local quite yet, I’ll include a little history refresher below.
A Quick Refresher:
Illyrians were the first known inhabitants of Croatia (about 2000-1000 BCE). The Greeks came next, who founded quite a few of the towns we know today, including Vis, Hvar, and Korčula, which are some of the hiking destinations I’ll talk more about below. Then came the Romans and 30 or so other changes of sovereignty (Byzantines, Greeks, Magyars, Tatars, Croatian and Serbian princes, Venetians, Sicilians, and Normans) up until 1420 when the Venetians established permanent rule.
Dalmatia went back and forth between Austria and France until World War I when it was given to Italy in exchange for support as part of the Treaty of London in 1915. Then the Treaty of Rapallo (1920) gave all of Dalmatia to Yugoslavia (except the mainland Zadar and a few coastal islands).
Yugoslavia was eventually broken up by the Axis powers in WWII, Dalmatia was annexed by Italy and passed entirely to Yugslavia in 1947, which formed six republics who were forced together by their communist ruler, even though they all had different histories, beliefs, and identities. When Tito, the ruler, died, communism died with him and the republics said, “byeeee.”
Croatia officially declared independence from Yugoslavia in 1991 along with Slovenia. And here we are today.
Best Time to Go to Croatia
Summer in Croatia can get HOT. Like 90s-100s (F) hot. Many hiking companies won’t even run tours in August because it’s too dangerous. My recommendation? Avoid peak summer months and visit this Adriatic paradise late spring or early fall. Trust me. You’ll still have beautiful, sunny, warm weather but with less crowds. Win, win if you ask me.
I visited mid-March to mid-July and it was absolutely perfect. I hiked in the mornings and evenings and cooled off midday with a little swimming!
Best Way to Get Around Croatia
This itinerary involves some island hopping in addition to overland transportation. There are plenty of ways to plan a similar adventure!
Hire a Local Guide
Hiring a local to piece together your dream itinerary is such a great way to experience Croatia! Not only does Mountain Summit Adventures design a bespoke trip that matches your vision to T, they’ll also introduce you to local secrets and share their knowledge about the land and culture you’re experiencing along the way. Pretty dang ideal if you ask me.
I had the opportunity to venture out on a rock climbing adventure and ridge-line hike just outside of Makarska with MSA and it was an absolute blast! Highly recommend.
Embark on a Hiking Cruise with Sail Croatia
If you’re like, “Yes, please, I want to do every single thing on this itinerary,” with the added bonus of cruising through Dalmatia on a small ship, book Sail Croatia’s hiking cruise! I had the opportunity to climb aboard Afrodita for this week-long itinerary and, I mean… legendary.
You’ll get to experience a new island or town and hike a new trail every single day with your fellow shipmates, and by the end of the week, you’re likely to have a few new friends!
Bonus: The ship often stops enroute for a quick swim stop to cool off in remote bays along the way.
Take a Ferry
If you’re more of a lone soul, Croatia’s killer ferry system makes it easy to get around by yourself.
Get by Ferry shows all ferry options on a variety of lines and lets you purchase your tickets right there–purchase in advance to save a little $$$.
Most (if not all) of Croatia’s pedestrian ferries are catamarans. The most common are TP Line and Jadrolinija.
Jadrolinija is a Croatian sea shipping company that has passenger catamarans as well as full-on car ferries–if you plan on taking your car with you, you’ll be on one of these beasts, which feel a little more industrial than the other ferry/catamaran options. They also have a few lines that the catamarans don’t, for example, Split to Stari Grad.
Buses are your Frienemy
I heard a ton of horror stories about buses in Croatia–mostly about how delayed they can be–but, I’m happy to report that I took quite a few buses and only had one delay (of 45 minutes). Every bus I took had A/C, and many even had charging ports. I honestly loved them–they got me to where I needed to go for about 11 Euros and I was totally comfortable onboard.
So, I guess, plan for a little wiggle room if you do intend on taking buses, especially if you have a ferry or flight to catch at the other end. If you’re flexible, buses are definitely the move.
Get by Bus (similar to Get by Ferry) is what I used to find and purchase tickets.
Rent a Car
Renting a car gives you the flexibility and freedom to adventure at your own pace, on your own schedule, to wherever you’d like. Discover Cars has super affordable daily rates for every budget, and even offers one-way options, which is so ideal if, for example, you’d like to pick up in Croatia and drop it off in Slovenia! How cool!
Hiking in Croatia: An Epic 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Solta
Just 19km long (nearly 12 miles), Šolta (pronounced “Sholta”) is a bit off the tourist path with its quaint towns, beautiful beaches, and legendary crystal clear, blue water. It’s the perfect way to spend your first day.
The Hike: Vela Straza
Distance: 5 miles RT
Elevation: 955’
This 5-mile hike is hyper local and not really on any of the trail maps. I’d recommend hiring a guide to get the most out of your experience and learn a bit about the local culture, flora, and fauna you’ll get to experience along the way!
It’s a road hiker–some dirt, some paved–to warm up those fresh-off-the-plane legs and ease you into the new terrain you’ll be hiking the rest of the week.
Beginning in town, you’ll walk along a dirt path along a ridge with impressive views of the mainland over the water to the east. You’ll eventually meet up with a steep paved section of road and pass a beautiful cemetery. From there, veer left for the final section to the top until you find the massive cross overlooking the island and Split in the distance. You’ve arrived!
Where to Stay
I found that Croatia uses Booking.com like Airbnb–they list private rooms, villas, and apartments by owner, and they’re the most affordable options I found throughout my adventure, sometimes comparable to hostel prices.
Villa Marin With Sea View is located in Rogač, just a short walk from the ferry port. It has all your usual amenities (wifi, A/C, dining area, TV) in addition to a shared seasonal outdoor swimming pool, lounge, and garden. Some accommodations even come with a balcony, a fully equipped kitchen, and a hot tub, yeee!
Bella Casa Apartment 2 is in the town of Stomorska. This little village is where I spent most of my time. It has a balcony overlooking the town, a kitchen with a fridge and stove, and a private bathroom with bath or shower.
Day 2: Vis
Easily one of my favorite of all the Dalmatian islands, Vis is charming, slow-paced, packed with adventure, and is full of culture and charm. It’s also the closest island to the legendary Blue Cave and has tons of hidden little coves with white rocky beaches and that crystal clear, blue water we love so much. Any Mamma Mia fans out there? You might recognize some scenes from Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again.
Take some time to explore the narrow streets, try Peka (a traditional roasted meal of meat or seafood with potatoes and veggies), and/or do as the locals do and order a coffee at literally any establishment–you won’t be disappointed. My favorite? Bistro Frutarija. Doesn’t get much better than a waterfront cappuccino, or a beer, or both.
The Hike: Sveti Andrija Mountain Hut
Distance: 3.5 miles RT
Elevation: 830’
Start in the town of Vis and meander up a well-trodden path to your first road crossing. You’ll navigate a few switchbacks before crossing the highway. The next leg of the trail is a nice rocky path along the side of the hill–don’t forget to look back! Vis looks mighty fine from this angle.
The trail levels out once you reach the dirt road at the top. Follow that path and hang right–keep an eye out for hedgehogs! They frequent these parts, and they’re cute as all get out!
After a total of about 1.7 miles, the mountain hut will come into view. Say hi to the volunteer who runs the place, and if you’re really nice, he may even offer to sell you a beer for a few Kuna.
This is the PERFECT spot to catch sunset. Bring some snacks and hang out for a while. It’s gorgeous up there!
Other Things to do on Vis
Book a Blue Cave tour
Hike down to Stiniva Beach–it’s a cool secluded cove with a bar. Sign me uppp.
Go wine tasting at Aerodrom Gostionica Wine House
Enjoy a cocktail at Fort George
Visit the quaint fishing village of Komiza
Vis Hotels
Hotel San Giorgio is a hidden gem in Vis’ historic center. Its decor is on point and everyone I talked to who stayed at this beautiful hotel had nothing but great things to say. How do I know? I stumbled into their beautiful restaurant hidden between old stone, vine-draped walls. Magical. And the food? Even better. It’s inspired by the sea and uses traditional island recipes with local fish, olive oil, you name it. Their homemade focaccia was easily the best I’ve ever had in my life, and their tuna steak was *chef’s kiss.
Studio Apartments Kuljiš are just 500’ from the nearest beach with all the usual amenities, plus a beautiful terrace or balcony with sea views. Heck yes! They also offer complimentary ferry transport!
Villa Luxury Lighthouse Vis-Croatia: You know me, I can’t get enough of my unique stays. So I give you… a lighthouse on your own private island! Pretty sweet, right?
The lighthouse was built in 1873, and the views are nothing short but epic, obvi. Your arrival and departure boat transfers are included in the price tag, and the skipper and his boat are available for various excursions, tours of nearby islands, and trips to and from Vis for an additional cost. If you go… can I tag along? Thanks.Apartments Frenkie is in the tiny fishing village of Komiža on Vis’ northwest coast. This town is definitely worth a visit if you have the time! Lucica and Mlin Beach are just a short walk away and the apartment comes with all your usual amenities including A/C and wifi, a terrace, and even private parking, which is great if you’re renting a car or scooter to get here!
Mira Sea Front Guesthouse is also in Komiža, and what caught my eye is its gorgeous terrace that’s basically right over the sea. Super cute central location to experience Komiža at its finest.
Day 3: Vela Luka, Korcula
Vela Luka, nicknamed, “najlipša vala na svitu,” which means, “the most beautiful cove in the whole world,” is a quaint little artsy town on the west side of Korčula island. The town is home to about 30 artists including poets, artists, painters and sculptors–walk the world’s longest mosaic promenade (40 m or about 131’) to get a glimpse into the creativity flowing through Vela Luka’s quaint streets.
Vela Luka is also known for the Vela Spila cave, which is considered one of the most important prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe. Findings (including thousands of ceramic pieces, whole vessels, and other objects) prove that the cave had been continuously inhabited since 20,000 BC. CRAZY!
The Hike: Hum
Distance: 2.6 miles RT
Elevation: 1,149’
A steep trail with a steep reward, this hike starts on a dirt road through beautiful olive tree farms before veering off onto a rocky but shaded trail. It’s a nice break from Croatia’s intense sun–we went at dusk and it was still super hot!
It levels out for a hot sec to a stunning view to the northwest–take a moment to breath it all in. After one more short uphill stretch, you’ll arrive at the fort to find 360-degree views of Korčula and the surrounding islands of Hvar, Mljet, Lastovo, and Vis, along with the mainland. Freaking magical.
Climb on the fort’s 19th century walls, built under the Austria-Hungary reign, have a snack, and watch the sun set the town aglow from 376m (about 1,234’) above sea level.
Other Things to do on Korcula
Visit the town of Korčula (the old town is insanely cool–rumor has it Marco Polo is from here!)
Hike to Vela Spila
Where to Stay in Vela Luka
Guest House Mara is just a 2-minute walk from the beach with a terrace, A/C, and BBQ facilities in addition to your typical amenities. It’s location is perf and the patio is super adorable.
Apartment Toma is just a 7-minute walk from Vranac Beach with your usual amenities, including A/C, a terrace, sea views, and an on-site restaurant. The interior decor is on point!
Day 4: Stari Grad
Stari Grad has my whole heart. Located on Hvar, Stari Grad is the oldest town in Croatia, and there’s something about its slower pace, beautiful network of winding limestone streets, flowering vine-covered walls, delicious and affordable restaurants, and the surrounding Plain filled with vineyards and olive trees that made me feel some type of way.
Good vibes all around. I loved this place so much, I went back.
The Hike: Purkin Kuk
Distance: 3 miles RT
Elevation: 878’
This hike begins, as most others do, with a dirt path through beautiful olive trees before turning up onto the forest-covered hillside. I welcomed the shade with open arms.
Pro Tip: There are quite a few spiders on this trail, so grab a trusty spider stick to avoid getting a head-full of unwanted spiderweb to the face. YUCK.
After a few switchbacks, you’ll stumble upon ruins of an old limestone home rumored to be a doctor’s house back in the day. Take a quick breather at the picnic tables here before continuing up to the top.
See all those rock piles? They’re ruins that date back to 2,000-1,000 B.C.!!! The first inhabitants of this area, the Illyrians, built these hilltop stone structures once upon a time. The history in these islands continues to blow my mind.
Once at the top, indulge in the epic northwest-facing views over Stari Grad, the island of Brač, and the mainland in the distance. Ideal.
Other Things to do on Hvar
Experience the town of Hvar. If you’re looking for a little nightlife, take a bus to the town of Hvar. There’s even a club on an island that doesn’t start poppin’ until 2 a.m.
Visit a lavender farm. Hvar Island is known for its lavender fields and makes some killer lavender ice cream. Brusje is a great place to start!
Go wine tasting at Hora Hvar. But learn from my mistakes and make a reservation! I showed up unannounced, and they said they didn’t even have room for just me. Sad.
Bonus: They have a small lavender farm on site too.
Where to Stay in Stari Grad
Ancora Faros is just a 6-minute walk from Beach Banj. It has all your regular amenities including A/C, a TV, a private bathroom and shower, dining and living area, and wifi, plus it’s super central, literally overlooking the waterfront promenade. Ideal. Guests can enjoy free breakfast too!
B&B Heritage Villa Apolon is a stunning pink building with a large terrace, free breakfast, and is located right on the waterfront promenade. Views are insane, rooms have A/C, TV, a desk, and seating area, and it has nothing but good reviews all around.
Day 5: Brac
Brač (pronounced "bratch”) is Croatia’s highest island, but is famous for the Golden Horn.
I get the hype–it’s a beautiful strip of white beach that protrudes into the blue Adriatic–the photos from above are spectacular, but to be honest, I’m not sure it’s worth it.
If I were you, I’d rent a scooter and explore the lesser known parts of the island to get a good feel for its wild, natural beauty.
The Hike: Blaca Monastery
Distance: 2.2 miles RT
Elevation: 96’ (971’ descent)
The Blaca Monastery and Hermitage is such a treat. It was built into the karst cave of Ljubitovitca in the 16th century by two Glagolitic monks. As their estate grew, they started growing olive trees and grape vines and traded olive oil and wine with passing sailors. They were totally thriving in the 18th century.
This special place remained the economic and spiritual center of this side of Brač until 1963 when the last Father passed. Also a famous astronomer, you can tour the grounds to see his telescopes, library, and get a peek into the lives of the monks who once called this beautiful monastery home.
Unfortunately, interior photography isn’t allowed, so you’ll have to trust me on this one. Don’t miss the kitchen and hangout space–it’s truly something.
There are two ways to get to the monastery: to get to the trailhead above, you’ll need to rent some type of overland transportation to access the trailhead. The hike descends nearly 1,000’ into the valley in 1.6 miles, so pack lots of water for the hike back up.
The other route (below) is less demanding, but requires a boat to access the trailhead. Mountain Summit Adventures can set it up, or, if you’d like to do this entire itinerary, Sail Croatia has a sweet hiking cruise that takes you to every destination on this list. More below!
other Things to do on Brac
Hike to the highest point in the Adriatic Islands. A 10.6km (6.6-mile) round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 715m (2340’) leads you to Vidova Gorda at 778m (2,552’). If you’re up for a challenge, this hike will greet you with epic views of the Dalmatian islands!
Brac Hotels
Apartments Sarbunal is in the town of Bol, just an 11-minute walk from the beach, and offers wifi, BBQ facilities, a garden, and free private parking. Sea views are abundant, especially from the rooftop terrace *heart eyes.
Apartman Restović is a cute little garden apartment, but what got me was the washer! If you need a pit stop to do some laundry, look not further. It has A/C and is just a 2-minute walk from Račić Beach. There’s also free public parking available, whoop whoop.
Hotel Villa Džamonja is also in Bol and is just a 3-minute walk from Zadruga Beach. 24-hour front desk and room service makes check-in easy any time of the day. There’s also a free buffet breakfast and the sea views are niceeeeee.
Day 6: Makarska
As far as I’m concerned, Makarska is the adventure hub of Croatia. Let’s just refer to it as basecamp from here on out. Here’s why: You can literally hike into Biokovo Nature Park from the city center, which is part of the Dinaric Alps. It has miles upon miles of hiking and backpacking trails through unique foliage and epic rock formations.
Fun Fact: The Biokovo mountains formed 65 million years ago when the African and Eurasian plates collided, pushing the seafloor 1,000 m (about 3,281’) out of the water at its highest point. So cool.
There are also tons of rock climbing routes for enthusiasts of all levels, or if beaching is more your style, you’ll find city beaches, remote local spots with beach bars, and there’s even a nude beach (Nugal Beach) if you feel like evening out that mad tan line from all those sunny hikes we’ve been doing.
Back in town, you have plenty of tasty restaurants to choose from, top notch gelato on almost every corner, bars, a sweet night club in a cave–there’s something for everyone here.
The Hike: Vosac
Distance: 3 miles RT
Elevation: 559’
Pro Tip: This particular hike requires some type of transportation to the trailhead. I’d recommend renting a scooter for the day and packing in a few more adventures while you’re at it!
I love islands, but getting back to the mountains on Day 6 felt amazing. The landscape was very different from any of the other hikes on this list. The trail passed through rocky terrain interrupted by fields of wildflowers–including some endemic species–with unobstructed views of the Adriatic nearly the entire way… so magical. I don’t think a moment went by when a smile wasn’t plastered across my face.
The hike swings by a popular paragliding launch point, and we were lucky enough to catch a glider setting up for flight. But with the hot sun beating down and still a decent amount of trail to go, we continued along the ridge to our next water break: a lookout over the town of Makarska.
A few final switchbacks up a steep slope and we found ourself at our destination: Vosač is 1,422m (4,662’) above sea level, and the views? Sheeeesh. Insane.
You’ll see the cities of Vrgorac and Imotski below, as well as the Bosnia and Herzegovina highlands, all of the Dalmatian islands, and if it’s a super clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of Monte Gargano, Italy. Wild.
If you’re like me and enjoy a nice peak beer, good news: you can save yourself the weight and purchase a cold can from the mountain hut at the top. Doesn’t get much better than that!
Other Things to do in Makarska
Go rock climbing. I went with Mountain Summit Adventures and had the BEST time! Mate was born and raised in Makarska, is super knowledgeable about all things outdoors and loves to share his passion with others. You’ll be in great hands with him!
Hike to Nugal Beach
Walk the Park Šuma Sveti Petar for a cool beach bar and hidden swimming spots.
Check out the Skywalk to walk on glass 1228m above sea level.
Makarska Hotels
Luxury City Center Apartments are located in–you guessed it–the city center, but for a fair price, which is nice! It’s just about a 3-minute walk from the beach in the pedestrian area of Makarska's Old Town. Doesn’t get much better than that. It has all your usual amenities and a cute balcony!
Villa Hrpina is a little farther from the beach (by only 2 minutes), is close to St. Marc Cathedral, Makarska Port and Makarska Franciscan Monastery and every room has a balcony with a sea view. The decor is colorful and fun too!
Heritage Hotel Porin Makarska: If you’re a hot tub lover (like myself), don’t pass up a night at the Heritage Hotel Porin Makarska! It’s a former noble palace set right on the Riva Promenade in the center of Makarska, which means all of Old Town Makarska’s restaurants and bars are at your fingertips. If you’re too comfy to leave, no worries–there’s an on-site cocktail bar with your name on it.
Day 7: Omis
At the mouth of the Cetina River on the mainland lies the seaside town of Omiš where we’ll begin our last hike. Home to pirates in the 12th and 13th centuries, they used the Omiš’ unique terrain to attack trade ships and retreat into the river where they couldn’t be followed. Genius. Look up to find the Starigrad Fortress sitting epically 290m above town (about 951’). Yep, you guessed it–that’s our next hike.
The Hike: Starigrad Fortress
Distance: 1.55 miles RT
Elevation: 890’
The dirt and rock trail begins in town and is relatively steep from the get go, winding up and between houses, getting rockier and rockier as you ascend. Make sure you have plenty of water!
The boulders triple in size around the 0.3-mile mark, requiring some lunges and careful footing as you make your way up the side of the mountain. The good news? The trail levels out after about 0.6 miles. The bad news? You gain almost all your elevation in this single 0.6-mile leg. It’s a workout, especially in Croatia’s infamous heat.
The Fortica, built by the Venetian empire to defend against the Ottomans, is now a refuge for hikers. It costs 20 Kuna (2022) to enter and there’s water and Coca Cola available to quench your thirst.
Once down, cool off with a dip at one of Omiš’ many beaches!
Omis Hotels
Family Beach Rooms is super close to the beach, as you may have guessed from its name, and has an on-site restaurant, free private parking, a bar, and terrace in addition to sea views and your other usual amenities. Breakfast and sometimes dinner are included. It’s typically a good bang for your buck too!
Modern Beach Apartments are just outside of downtown Omiš about a 10minute walk away from Ravnice South Beach. There’s an on-site restaurant, garden, and a bar with a terrace. The apartments have a balcony, kitchen, TV, and more. You also get to choose between buffet breakfast and dinner at the restaurant. How nice!
Apartments Tomasovic is located right on the river in Omiš, just a 4-minute walk to the beach and 500’ from the town’s main square. Decor is clean and beautiful and there’s an on-site family-run restaurant where you can try some national fare!
What to Pack to go Hiking in Croatia
Top
Hat
Sunglasses. Locals joke that if you wear sunglasses and drink coffee, you’re basically Croatian. Rheos’ sunglasses are so sick–they’re polarized and they float! Ideal for all things adventure.
T-shirt (moisture-wicking for hiking is always a good idea).
Tank top (moisture-wicking for hiking is always a good idea).
Lightweight long sleeve or sweater for chillier evenings.
Windbreaker. It can get pretty dang windy in Croatia. Having something to break the blow is really nice! I love my Cotopaxi Teca Half-Zip Windbreaker. Every one is unique!
Bottom
Active shorts. I love wearing biker shorts on my hikes–the extra length helps with thigh-chafing. I’m wearing the blue shorts from this set in most of my hiking pictures!
Casual shorts for relaxing or in and around town. I brought a pair of jean shorts and a couple pairs of linen shorts.
Lightweight leggings or hiking pants. I brought my CRZ Naked Feeling leggings for higher altitude hikes and to protect my legs from sharp bushes. Depending on the time of year you visit, you may not even need them! I also brought my Eddie Bauer joggers.
Flowy pants. I LOVE traveling with flowy pants–they look nice and they’re comfy as all get out.
Jeans for chillier evenings. I dressed these up if I was heading to a restaurant for dinner or down if I wanted to meander around a beach at dusk. Love my Everlane curvy jeans! They fit my bigger booty so well.
Feet
Moisture-wicking socks like these from Icebreaker.
Sandals that can get wet for all the swimming you’ll be doing while you’re there. Croatia is infamous for all their sea urchins, and having shoes you can wear in the water is a game changer. I’ve been living in my rubber Birkenstock knock-offs from Amazon, but I honestly wish I’d brought my Tevas–they’d stay on my feet a little better in the water.
You can also pick up a pair of water shoes while you’re there too–they’re a common item in every touristy store. They’re incredibly comfy, can be dressed up or down (great for travel), are waterproof, and I don’t feel bad destroying them because they were cheap!Walking shoes. Again, I lived in my rubber Birkenstock knock-offs from Amazon. They’re the comfiest shoes I’ve ever owned. No joke.
Hiking boots. If you know me you know I love my Danner Mountain 600s. The killer grip came in handy on the rocky Croatian trails.
Miscellaneous
Sunscreen. The sun in Croatia is hot and strong. Save that skin and lather up! I used my all-natural Kinfield sunscreen every single day. It smells good too :)
Swimsuit. Self explanatory.
Travel Documents
Passport. V important.
Visas. Check to see if you qualify for a visa. If you’re a US citizen, a visa isn’t required for stays under 90 days within a 180-day period.
Travel Insurance. I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance for extra security. It can get you out of any sticky situation without having to foot a hefty bill, and it even covers things like delayed flights, lost baggage, and more!
Leave No Trace
Always remember to leave no trace–pack out what you pack in, leave what you find, prepare for every adventure, and respect the outdoors and each other every step of the way. Learn more about how to leave no trace here.
And if you do decide to venture out on any of these adventures, drop a comment below or shoot me an email to tell me how it went!
Happy adventuring!