Why Croatia is the Perfect Destination for a Short Holiday
Croatia has quickly become a top summer destination for travellers from Europe, Australia, and the US, and it’s easy to see why. With its stunning Adriatic coastline, charming historic towns, and warm Mediterranean climate, it’s the perfect spot for a short getaway. Even with just a few days, you can experience a mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure without feeling rushed.
The best time to visit is between May - September, and we chose July (arguably, one of the busiest months!) to celebrate my mum's 60th! We had a glorious time, and in this guide to 4 days in Croatia, I share our favourite activities, hidden gems and local restaurants packed full of delicious food to help you make the most of a short holiday.
For our family holiday, we decided to book an Airbnb near Dubrovnik instead of a hotel, and it turned out to be the best choice. We stayed in Čeločipi, a quiet area just outside Dubrovnik and Cavtat, which made it the ideal base for exploring while still having a relaxed atmosphere. Čeločipi is best if you have a rental car, as it makes getting around much easier.
Our host, Tereza, went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. She decorated the apartment beautifully for my mum’s 60th birthday and even surprised us with a cake and a bottle of wine, which was such a thoughtful touch! During our stay, she also made us cocktails and was always on hand if we needed anything. It really felt like a home away from home, and I’d 100% book with her again if I return to Croatia.
Ubers do operate in the area, though, and there are supermarkets nearby, so it’s also a great option if you want to self-cater and make it a more budget-friendly trip. The villa has a few other apartments, but it still felt private and peaceful.
Staying here gave us the best of both worlds; plenty of time to sunbathe and relax by the pool, with the freedom to head out and explore Dubrovnik, Cavtat, and Mlini whenever we wanted.
If you don’t want to drive, you can also rely on airport shuttles, local buses, and taxis, though they’re less flexible than having your own car.
👉 Travel tip: If you’re planning to rent a car, book early (especially in summer), check if your accommodation offers parking, and consider an automatic if you’re not confident with steep hill starts.
Things to do in Croatia in 4 Days
If you’re planning a short break to Croatia, you’ll be surprised at how much you can see and do in just four days. From exploring the historic streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town to relaxing by the sea in Cavtat or Mlini, there’s something for every type of traveller. Whether you’re into culture, food, or simply soaking up the sunshine, Croatia offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
Explore Dubrovnik Old Town
Dubrovnik Old Town is absolutely stunning, with its medieval walls, winding streets, and breathtaking sea views. However, if you’re visiting in July or August, be prepared for large crowds. To make the most of your visit, I recommend going early in the morning or around sunset, when the streets are quieter and the views are extra magical (we visited at sunset and it was incredible!).
Getting around Dubrovnik can be tricky, especially when it comes to parking, which is limited and expensive. Instead, I suggest using Uber; they’re easy, convenient, and far less stressful.
For an unforgettable activity in Dubrovnik, don’t miss the chance to walk the famous city walls or join a guided tour. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, there are even dedicated tours that take you to filming locations used in King’s Landing!
When it comes to food, dining in Dubrovnik Old Town is on the pricey side. To give you an idea, we paid €5.50 for a Coke, so I wouldn’t recommend splurging on dinner here. Instead, consider stopping for breakfast, lunch, or a quick pastry from a local bakery, which is far more affordable and still lets you soak up the Old Town atmosphere.
Boat tour around Dubrovnik
A sunset boat tour in Dubrovnik is hands down one of the most memorable activities you can do. It’s the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of the Old Town and enjoy a more peaceful side of the city. Out on the Adriatic Sea, the atmosphere was immaculate. There's something so special about being on the water, watching the sun dip below the horizon, and just taking a moment for yourself. It’s honestly an experience everyone should try at least once.
Our tour included stunning views of the Elaphiti Islands, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way. We also got to learn more about Croatian history and culture from our local boat guide, which made the trip even more meaningful.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening, a relaxing break from sightseeing, or just a new perspective of the city, a Dubrovnik sunset cruise is the perfect addition to your itinerary.
Day trip to Cavtat
A trip to the south of Croatia isn’t complete without visiting Cavtat. If you want to beat the crowds and escape the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik while still enjoying delicious eateries, this charming harbour town is the perfect spot. Cavtat also serves as a great starting point for tours and excursions along the coast.
We loved visiting in the mornings when it was still quiet and the town was slowly waking up. We enjoyed coffee, breakfast, and picked up a few souvenirs, parking is easier here than in Dubrovnik, though it can be pricey. Seeing Cavtat come alive in the evening was magical; we had a late dinner around 7:30–8pm while watching the sun set over the Adriatic Sea.
The town is easily walkable, making it a convenient base if you’re exploring Croatia on a short holiday, such as my 4-day Croatia itinerary. Its relaxed pace, scenic harbour, and local charm make Cavtat an unforgettable stop on any southern Croatian adventure.
If you have a few extra days, or want to explore beyond Croatia, both Montenegro and Bosnia make excellent day-trip options from Dubrovnik or Cavtat.
From Dubrovnik, Montenegro’s coast is just under 2 hours away by car, while Cavtat is slightly closer at around 1 hour 45 minutes. Bosnia, on the other hand, is about a 2.5-3 hour drive from Dubrovnik and a bit shorter from Cavtat, making it feasible for a long day trip.
Montenegro is visually similar to Croatia, with stunning Adriatic coastlines, charming old towns, and a relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Popular stops include Kotor, Budva, and Sveti Stefan, where you can enjoy scenic walks, beaches, and historic architecture.
Bosnia & Herzegovina offers a very different experience, with a rich cultural blend influenced by Ottoman and Arabic heritage. Cities like Mostar feature iconic bridges, cobblestone streets, and unique local cuisine. Bosnia is also very budget-friendly, making it a great option if you want to stretch your travel budget while experiencing a different side of the Balkans.
If we had a few extra days, we would have loved to explore either of these countries, but sadly our 4-day Croatian itinerary didn’t leave enough time. Still, it’s a great idea for anyone planning a longer trip!
If you’re looking for a quieter seaside town near Dubrovnik, Mlini is the perfect choice. With its charming harbour, pebbled beaches, and a more relaxed atmosphere, it’s ideal if you want a slower pace compared to the busy streets of Dubrovnik. We visited one evening and instantly wished we had spent more time here!
We enjoyed drinks overlooking the Adriatic Sea, which was the perfect way to wind down and soak up the coastal views, a truly memorable end to our trip. Mlini’s harbour and beach are also great spots for sunbathing, swimming, or even diving, and the town feels less touristy, with more locals around. Food and drinks here are also noticeably cheaper than in Dubrovnik, making it a great budget-friendly escape.
We had drinks at Oleander Bistro & Restaurant, a charming seaside spot in Mlini with breathtaking views. It was the perfect place to end our trip, peaceful, relaxed, and set right by the water. There’s nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while listening to the waves and watching the sun dip over the Adriatic. If I return to Croatia, this is definitely somewhere I’d go back to.
Croatia is packed with delicious eateries, so you definitely won’t go home hungry! One thing to note is that locals tend to eat later in the evening, often around 8-10pm, which is something to keep in mind when planning your meals.
If you’re visiting Dubrovnik, I highly recommend pre-booking ahead, especially in the tourist hotspots. During our July trip, we explored dining options in Lapad (Dubrovnik), Mlini, and Cavtat, but decided to skip the main Old Town area in Dubrovnik itself, as it was extremely busy in July.
There’s a lot you can pack into a 4-day Croatian itinerary, from sampling fresh seafood and local pastries to enjoying seaside restaurants and cosy cafes. Whether you’re chasing authentic local flavours or relaxing with a cocktail by the water, Croatia offers a variety of dining experiences for every type of traveller.
After a local taxi driver recommended Lapad, a charming coastal seaside area just outside the hustle and bustle of Dubrovnik, we decided to visit. We caught a cab and enjoyed a relaxing walk along the promenade, taking in the views and seaside atmosphere.
Before heading to Pull Over Restaurant, we stopped for a drink at Promendada Caffe and Cocktail Bar, a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the scenery.
We tried the shrimp risotto, which was tasty, though I wouldn’t recommend the risotto overall. The restaurant is a nice spot for seafood, but it felt more casual and less refined compared to some of the other places we visited.
Lapad itself is a lovely area to explore if you want a quieter coastal vibe while still being just a short ride from Dubrovnik.
We celebrated my mum’s birthday at La Boheme and booked ahead to secure a table. The restaurant has a fantastic vibe, and they even treated us to a free glass of Prosecco in honour of my mum’s special day.
The food was delicious and full of flavour, with plenty of seafood, meat, and classic English options to choose from. If you’re looking for a truly local experience, it’s worth doing some research. Cavtat has quieter, more traditional spots that feel intimate and authentic.
A quick tip about dining in Croatia: locals tend to eat later in the evening, so we booked a table from 7- 9pm. On a few nights, we ended up eating closer to 10:30pm, which wasn’t ideal for digestion, so plan accordingly if you prefer earlier dinners.
La Boheme is a great choice for a celebration or special occasion in Cavtat, offering both a lively atmosphere and a range of tasty dishes.
Flamingo in Mlini
A little further out from Mlini, closer to Cavtat, is Flamingo, a charming spot that’s popular with the locals. It’s not a fancy, high-end restaurant, but that’s part of its appeal, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect if you want an authentic Croatian dining experience without breaking the bank. The menu is simple but tasty, featuring fresh seafood, grilled meats, and traditional dishes that give you a real taste of the region. Prices are very reasonable, making it ideal for a casual lunch or dinner after a day of sightseeing.
We actually thought it was in Mlini harbour, so we decided to walk there under the blazing sun, an uphill trek but a great way to get our steps in! Definitely a contrast to the ease of driving or catching an Uber to most other spots, but well worth it for the local experience.
La Norma in Mlini
This trip was a very chilled holiday, striking the perfect balance between relaxing by the pool and exploring Mlini, Cavtat, and Dubrovnik. Croatia really impressed me with how much you can see and do in just a few days, without ever feeling rushed.
I’ll definitely be back to discover more of this beautiful country. Stay tuned to see where I visit next!
Have you been to Croatia? I’d love to hear your thoughts and your favourite spots in the comments below.
If you’re already planning your next getaway and want some inspiration, check out my latest post: Best Places to visit in Europe in Summer 2025.
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