There are 2 of us traveling in late May/early June. We both love photography, views, local experiences, nature and history. Outdoors over indoors, and enjoying things we cannot see or do anywhere else. We try to plan trips with the idea of some down time built in. I have a leg injury (but mobile) that will make hiking and the walls of Dubrovnik and other spots challenging, but am hoping to try! We are renting a car, taking car ferries and driving the coastal route down after we visit Hvar. I know we are giving up some things (Plitvice!). But, I am hoping this itinerary is beautiful and not crazy. Also, we cannot decide between staying in Dubrovnik near old town or Cavtat, so any input there would be welcome.

Day 1 fly- arrive in Split from Europe

Day 2 day trip to Krka Waterfalls and Split

Day 3 Split (leave) go to Cetina Spring and Kliss Fortress.... then late ferry to Hvar (or skip those and go to Hvar early )

Day4 Hvar town, beach (if warm enough)

Day 5 Hvar boat tour, beach

Day 6 ferry from Hvar back to Split- early- drive long coastal road- scenic stops along way-

-Omis

-Brela?

-Makarska

-Orebic....end in Korcula (15 min ferry)

Day 7 Korcula old town, beach

Day 8 Korcula morning relax; leave Korcula, explore Peljesac Peninsula, including Ston, Tsteno Arboretum, end in Dubrovnik

Day 9 Dubrovnik

Day 10 Dubrovnik

Day 11 Dubrovnik (or beach or islands)

Day 12 flight out

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I’ve had leg injuries that made long hikes difficult and I’ve had leg injuries that made climbing difficult … I’m not sure which applies to you, so I’ll just offer some comments about the places I’ve been that I hope you find useful.

With an interest in history, I’m surprised at how little time you are giving Split. You might consider shifting one night from Dubrovnik to give yourselves more in that lovely city. (Four nights is a LOT for Dubrovnik.)

The Krka waterfalls cascade down a hill. IIRC, you can get to the base – and the grandest of the falls, Skradinski Buk -- quite easily (minimal walking, mostly flat). Or you can get to the top of the falls if you want to take a boat ride on the lakes in the Krka National Park. I’m not sure you would manage the hillside paths beside the falls.

The road from Split to Dubrovnik holds some of the most spectacular scenery I’ve been privileged to see. I was so very glad to be on a bus! I would have hated to try driving that road, as I would have had difficulty pulling my eyes away from the views.

To get into Korcula’s Old Town, one climbs a staircase with, as I recall, reasonably shallow stairs:




Day 9 sounds a bit ambitious to me, but I could be wrong! If it helps you plan, I spent about 3 hours in the Trsteno Gardens, which are spread over several levels near the base of a hill.

Do pay attention to where you stay in Dubrovnik: Some options require a LOT of stairs! You should be able to use the elevation feature for walking routes in google maps to check.

Thank you so much for your advice, Kja- especially concerning the leg injury and the Trsteno Gardens. Yes, I know we do not have as much time as I wanted in Split. I am hoping three half days (ish) in the city itself will be sufficient. If it's not, we will skip driving out to Cetina and spend more time in Split before Hvar. We really wanted to add Korcula for at least 2 nights (originally it was one at most). While I considered less time in Dubrovnik, I am anticipating having to take a very slow trip up those stairs, if I am able. And then not being able to do much after that. So, we added some extra padded time there to do other things, including a trip above and maybe out to the islands. Or just relax if needed, which is why Cavtat became an option (but it seems pretty hilly also). Also, we are fans of Game of Thrones- so perhaps a tour in Dubrovnik for that, too. We fly out early on the last day.

I didn’t mean to suggest skipping Trsteno! I was just noting that the gardens are sufficiently extensive that you might want to consider adjusting your aspirations for that day. I do remember some stairs, but nothing particularly taxing.

Nor did I mean to suggest skipping Korcula. I only meant to warn you about those stairs, which really aren’t that bad IMO, and to show that there is a railing. I found Korcula delightful, and if you can visit on a night when the moresca is performed, I’d strongly encourage you to do so.

I admit being confused about your time in Split. Once you consider closing times, I don’t see three half days there – and even if I did, I’m not sure it would be enough for people with an interest in history and the other things you mention. I know you said you prefer outdoor activities, but the Duomo, Baptistry, Peristyle, and other core elements of Diocletian’s Palace are unique and, IMO, spectacular … and they would take a chunk of time to visit. And there’s so much more to Split! But you know your interests, and I trust you've researched what the city offers.

As for Dubrovnik … well, once you start the walls, I think you pretty much have to finish them. As I recall, there are a few sections with stairs (some without railings) and large sections that are more or less flat. Consider stopping at the Buza Bar for a break.

Too funny. I didn't think you were suggesting I skip those things. I just meant thank you for your advice as to time needed and potential obstacles. As for the Dubrovnik walls, I have read that there is an option for a mid-way exit down if it gets to be too much.

I'd dump a day from Dubrovnik and invest the time to go to Trogir, either by boat or bus (boat is best). I wouldn't drive.

Clearly we don't know how bad your leg is, but cobbles and steps may take it out of you. You are allowed to rest it or just get in a pool.

I agree that Trogir would be a worthy addition to your trip. I went by bus from Split -- easy!

If you stay in Dubrovnik, consider getting rid of your car when you arrive. You do not really need it there. If you need to keep it for some reason, be aware there are new driving restrictions in the Old Town area, and not paying attention can lead to heavy fines. I would also urge you to see a bit more of Hvar Island, since you will have a car. I would go out of my mind staying in Cavtat that long.

Parking fees in the historic part of Hvar Town can add up. You can stay at a place with parking, but that might involve some hills and steps. You might consider staying in Stari Grad, it is much flatter there.

There are major works at the ferry port in Split (they are extending one pier) and it is a bit of a mess. Allow extra time to find your departure area. Half of it is a giant construction site at the moment. Or do what I do, drive south to the ferry at Drvenik (this island route can be a bit intense for nervous drivers, though.) You can see some of the places you mention on your way down.

rialtogrl has pointed to a great option! Personally, I FAR preferred Stari Grad to Hvar Town.

kja you know I adore Hvar Town but with walking issues, in the heat of early June, I would not want to deal with her hills and steps…

Wise advice!

Thanks again everyone. My leg is a work in progress- I am 6 months post surgery of a complete hamstring tear repair. Right now I have issues with pain/endurance and, most importantly, balance, but improving each day with a lot of PT work. But yes, it makes me very cautious about doing too much or being unstable, but not unable per se.

I actually found an air bb in Hvar with free parking on site and only a few steps to get in. It's outside of what looks to be the main part of Hvar Town, near the water and described as quiet with a 15 minute walk to town. It will be May when we are there, which I believe is usually cooler-more Spring-like. But I did consider Stari Grad, and thought we would stop there for a bit after the ferry. I am traveling with my 22 year old, and think she will like Hvar better. Trying to balance it all! My original plan actually included Trogir for the first night and then a drive to Krka the next day before Split for 2 nights. I skipped it as a place to stay, opting to stay in Split for 3 nights and visit Trogir. But then I researched Korcula and added that in, cutting Trogir and a night from Split.

My thoughts with Dubrovnik were that the arrival day would be spent partially in Korkula with the stops at the gardens etc on the way. So really just arriving in Dubrovnik late and yes, ditching the car.... 3 full days, then fly out early on the 4th day. The 3 full days was an effort to account for my stamina and potential leg pain. But since basically you are all saying I would be better off with replacing a day there w adding an extra day back onto Split- I will definitely give that some thought.

Good infö rialtogrl about the ferry port. Again, my original plan included that exact drive- leaving Split, possibly going to Cetina in the morning and then driving to Hvar via Drevnik ferry, stopping in Omis etc. But when I took the day away from Split, it seemed to make more sense to add more time in Split there that last day. Seems like my original plan may have been the better one! I am pretty good with driving, and have driven in many countries--just not crazy about narrow mountain roads with no shoulder or guardrails....which eliminated a side trip drive up to the Biokovo view point (but still tempted bc it looks gorgeous).

Has anyone taken the drive to the Cetina Spring? It looks unique and other-worldly, albeit maybe not as cool without the benefit of a drone!

New plan based on your suggestions and help:
3 nights in Split w drive one day to Krka...on 4th day, (skipping Cetina), drive down coast, via Omis, Makarska to Drvenik ferry, Hvar (7-8 hours with stops)
3 nights Hvar, return to main land via Drvenik, Orebic ferry to Korcula (6 hours with stops?)
2 nights Korcula on 3rd day drive to Dubrovnik, explore Peljesac Peninsula, including Ston, Tsteno Arboretum (planning 5 hours with stops)
3 nights/ 2 full days in or near Dubrovnik (walls, GOT tour, cable car above w dinner at Panorama restaurant, maybe tuk tuk tour above?); considering Rixos bc we can drop car there and looks like a lovely place to relax if my leg has had enough. Usually not my style though.

Before I set about changing reservations, does this make more sense? When I put the time in for the drives- it seems like a lot. But we really did want to take some time to explore or at least have lunch etc in those areas.

Is the place in Hvar south of the main part, in Križni Rat? If so, that area is really nice. To walk to town would be completely flat.

The ferry from Drvenik to Sućuraj takes 30 minutes but it will then take 90 minutes or so to drive to Hvar Town. And you need to get in line for the ferry 45 minutes in advance. So keep that in mind, maybe you will be tired after a long day of sightseeing. A lot of people like to sit on the long Split-Hvar crossing. Maybe you could make it a game time decision.

IMO, much better!
Your travel days still seem ambitious to me, but I'm sure you can think through your priorities to adjust on the fly.

Yes, near Krizni Rat. There was a second option west of the port- but that looked more hilly. I guess the ferry can go either way-and good point about being tired after the drive and sight seeing. But the construction mentioned, in a foreign country, was also a concern. The drive from Stari Grad ferry to Hvar Town is about 30 minutes, correct?

Yes, kja , my list is more of a wish list. We will adjust as needed. Ok, off to rebook things. Thank you all.

One more question- we were thinking of staying in Lumbarda on Korcula. I like the vineyard, water views and swimming there. Good plan or is there a better area and hotel/air bb recommendation on Korcula?

There is construction, but as long as you allow an hour or so to find your ferry (you need 45 minutes in line, anyway) you should be fine. There is a sign, when you enter the port area, that directs you to your ferry. You could walk down and check it out the day before. It is about 25 minutes to Hvar Town from the port in Stari Grad.

I just do not like being on a ferry for two hours. But you might find it enjoyable. There is not a ton to see in Makarska. Omiš Is lovely, but it is not like you need hours there. So if you do go to Drvenik, shoot for the 13.45 ferry. You need to arrive at 13.00 Then you can, depending on energy, visit some places on the way to Hvar Town. On the way back, you can do the same. There are small stands on the road selling wines, honey, lavender, brandy, etc. There is ONE main gas station on the road close to Jelsa. (You will find small stations in towns, but I try to fill up here.) Visit Jelsa, Vrboska, Stari Grad, the Stari Grad plain, a UNESCO site. For views, take the old road from Stari Grad to Hvar Town. You will not be disappointed, I promise you.

Great, detailed information rialtogrl . Thanks so much!!!

@here4now I am on Hvar at the moment and need to correct something, there is a shiny new Shell gas station on the main road at the Stari Grad ferry. So now there is more than one place to refuel on the main road. They even have a very popular cafe inside with the "best burger on the island" according to people who would know.

They are digging up part of the road to Sućuraj and there is an uncomfortable part of the road to traverse because now a very narrow two lane road is an even narrower one lane road. I will be on it again in mid April so I can give you an update on that situation later if you want me to.