We are very excited to share with you our two weeks in Croatia and Montenegro. We had a great time discovering the beautiful landscapes, the stunning coast and the island of Mljet. We also enjoyed the delicious food and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Arrival in Kotor
After landing at the airport, we could pick our rental car without any issues. We left Croatia's territory after a bit of time queuing at the border and landed in Montenegro. We quickly had our breath taken away with the bay of Kotor.
A scenic drive brought us to Vila Sofija, where we checked in and settled into our first home. That evening, we stayed in, enjoying a wonderful view on the water and a quiet homemade dinner with local ingredients — a perfect start.
Kotor's Old Town Charm and Bay Views
Kotor greeted us with its timeless Old Town, where massive ferries loomed beyond the fortified walls. We climbed to the Church of St. Giovanni, rewarded with panoramic views over the bay. For lunch, we hesitated a lot to pick a restaurant and eventually stumbled upon Pescaria Dekaderon, a cozy place nestled within the stone alleys.
In the afternoon, we found tranquility at Galebova Beach, sipping cocktails at the Bianco Bar right by the water. Dinner was a peaceful affair back at home, a fitting end to a full day.
Trail in Lovćen and Coastal Evening
We set off for Lovćen National Park, hiking to the Mausoleum of Njegoš perched atop Jezerski Peak. The trail and views were invigorating, and we refueled with lunch at the summit.
On the drive back, we stopped for a drink at the clifftop Horizont Bar, then cooled off with a dip at Dobrota Beach. That evening, we dined at Restaurant Barba, right by the water — grilled perfection paired with golden hour views.
Dubrovnik, City of Stone and panoramas
We bid farewell to Kotor and headed north to Dubrovnik. Our host at Villa Klaic welcomed us with a cold beer and insider tips. After a pleasant lunch overlooking the fortress walls, we wandered through the Old Town and along the bustling docks.
A break at Buža Bar, perched on the cliff’s edge, offered quite nice sea views. We climbed up to Panorama Restaurant for cocktails above the city and this time we couldn't believe the panorama we had in front of us.
Back down in the old town, we savored fresh fish at Lucin Kantun, followed by celebratory beers at The Gaffe, a local Irish pub as there seems to be in every city.
Arriving on Mljet
After an early drive leaving Dubrovnik to reach Prapratno, we boarded the ferry to Sobra on Mljet Island. The boat ride went smoothly and we could have lunch at a seaside pizzeria.
Later, we explored the legendary Odysseus Cave, which wasn't so great to our opinion. We could find better spots once inside the Mljet National Park, and its beautiful lakes. We arrived at Villa Bjelac, where we had booked a half-pension guesthouse from the Routard guide.
If there is one stay to recommand, this is the one. It is greatly located, cute, comfortable and very handy with the half-board option.
Our hosts prepared a delicious fish dish for dinner, a simple yet perfect end to the day.
Pomena, walks and Lakeside Swims
We hiked through the national park to Pomena, where we had a hearty steak lunch at Agroturizam Dalmatino, a charming rustic spot.
The afternoon brought a walk back along the north shore and a swim in the Malo Jezero. Another delicious freshly fished fish dinner awaited us back in Soline.
Prožurska Luka and Okuklje
A morning drive led us to Prožurska Luka, where we swam in turquoise waters under the sun. Afterward, we explored Okuklje, though it didn't quite live up to expectations.
A late lunch near the Veliko Jezero sustained us, and that night we enjoyed tender squid for dinner.
Montokuc and St. Mary Island
We hiked to Montokuc, the island’s high point, for a 360° view of the archipelago.
We caught a boat to St. Mary Island, wandering around the monastery and lunching on seaside snacks. Another boat took us to a small lake where we swam before catching the boat back and a quirky little train back. Yes, more fish for dinner — and never tired of it.
Trogir and Skradin
We left Mljet, ferrying back to the coast and driving toward Skradin. Along the way, we stopped for a picnic on a random beach.
We explored the charming town of Trogir, enjoying drinks at a beautiful café. By evening, we arrived in Skradin and settled into Skatula Studio, ending with a pasta dinner at home.
Krka's Waterfall Wonderland
We took an early boat from Skradin to the Krka National Park and could enjoy the views on the water. After a few minutes, we could wander and admire the Skradinski Buk and other falls, all framed by lush greenery.
Skradin is a great starting point to reach the Krka National Park. We suggest leaving early to avoid the masses.
Later, we drove to Manojlovac Waterfall, a peaceful trail leading to spectacular views.
After a picnic and swim at Roški Slap, we made a final scenic stop at Visovac Monastery before heading home for a relaxed salad dinner.
Split for the Day
A late start gave us just enough time to reach Split, where we wandered through the old town, explored the market and cathedral, then grabbed pre-lunch drinks before feasting on tuna steak at Gregolevante.
An afternoon stroll in Marjan Park capped the city visit before heading back to Skradin. We closed the night with pizza at More i Prstaci.
Šibenik and Korala Beach
On our way to Plitvice area, we stopped at the St. Michael Fortress in Šibenik, then drove to Korala Beach near Novigrad for a dip and lunch.
Upon reaching Villa Waterfalls Plitvice, we dined nearby on juicy burgers from Fast Food BBQ — rustic but mouthwatering.
Plitvice's Waterfalls and Lakes
A full day of nature immersion in the Plitvice National Park. We explored the Upper Lakes, with their wooden paths and lush green surrounds.
We could then descend to the Lower Lakes, where waterfalls gushed and mist kissed the air. What a souvenir that is.
Once again, the earlier the better. Arrive in Plitvice at the opening time to enjoy the park with less people.
Lunch broke up the day, and we ended with an apéro on the terrace before enjoying a delicious final meal at Restaurant Degenija.
Zadar and Nin
Our last day took us to Nin for one last beach swim, then onward to Zadar. We explored the center, treated ourselves to ice cream, and watched the sunset over the sea.
A farewell dinner of pasta brought the trip to a delicious close. Our home for the night: Sky & Sun Luxury Rooms — a fitting name for the end of a sun-soaked adventure.
We hope you liked this piece on our two weeks in Croatia and Montenegro. It was a journey filled with plenty of breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. From the stunning bay of Kotor to the vibrant streets of Dubrovnik, the serene beauty of Mljet, and the cascading waterfalls of Krka and Plitvice, every moment was a treasure.
Enjoy your next trip!
