Itineraries — Northern Dalmatia

Northern Dalmatia stretches over nearly 200 km between the island of Pag to the northwest and the mouth of the Krka to the southeast, articulated around two urban centres (Zadar and Šibenik) and four national parks. Landscape diversity here is extreme: in one hour of driving you move from the karst summits of Velebit to the bare limestone islands of the Kornati, from the travertine waterfalls of Plitvice to the Venetian ports of Zadar.

For a short trip (3-4 days), base yourself in Zadar and organise a day at Plitvice (1h30 drive) and a half-day to the Telašćica archipelago (Dugi Otok, accessible by fast ferry). Zadar's historic centre is discovered on foot in a day — be sure to include sunset on the Alfred Hitchcock quay, the city's most striking experience.

With a full week (7 days), extend the itinerary to the southeast. Leave Zadar for Šibenik (1h30 drive) stopping at Krka National Park. Book a night in Šibenik for Saint James Cathedral and the Saint Michael and Barone fortresses. Add two nights on Pag for the lunar landscapes battered by the bora, the sheep cheese and the historic salt pans, or alternatively on Murter as a base for Kornati excursions. One night at Plitvice (ideally in a hotel near the park to visit at the 7am opening) completes the formula.

With 10 to 14 days, integrate Paklenica National Park (canyons and great walls for climbing enthusiasts), the Velebit massif (signposted Premužićeva staza trail, one of the most beautiful hikes in central Europe) and an in-depth excursion to the Kornati with overnight by boat or in a family konoba on Kornat or Žut. Enthusiasts can also extend to Rab and Lošinj to the north (transition to Istria).