Tour Croatia+ trip

From Zagreb to Dubrovnik in 14 days with island hopping cruise

Croatia is a country you will quickly fall in love with. Explore its capital Zagreb, and visit the magnificent coastal towns of Zadar and Split before boarding the small ship cruiser for seven unforgettable days exploring islands in the southern Adriatic Sea until you reach Dubrovnik.

Trip highlights

  • Explore the most cherished sights in the historic parts of Zagreb's Upper Town
  • Discover the charms of the Istrian Peninsula, from medieval towns to truffle hunting
  • Visit the astonishing Plitvice Lakes and feel connected to the very essence of nature
  • Explore the soul of the stunning Croatian coast while cruising from one island to another
  • Enjoy the outstanding beauty of the Blue Cave and sample local wines on the island of Vis
  • Stroll the limestone-clad streets of Dubrovnik's Old Town, the most famous Adriatic city 

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Beautiful scenery, UNESCO sites, stunning medieval towns, fishing villages, delicious food, colourful Venetian houses, lovely national parks, vineyards and olive groves, and old traditions kept to this day, vibrant metropolises and friendly locals await you. Enjoy the ride from the country's capital Zagreb to the Adriatic Sea, stroll the alleys of Mediterranean towns, and get the essence of the famous islands of Hvar, Vis, Korčula and Brač, cruising from Split to the majestic Dubrovnik. Zagreb is a complete experience and a perfect introduction to Croatia's culture, history, and food with its undying charm and personality. Take a picture with the famous statue of the Girl with the Seagull in Opatija and explore the heart-shaped Istrian peninsula. Few places in this world look too beautiful and astonishing to believe that they exist, such as the miraculous Plitvice Lakes. Awaken all your senses by visiting the magnificent coastal towns of Zadar and Split before boarding the small ship cruiser for seven unforgettable days cruising on the southern Adriatic Sea from one island to another. Relax on a spacious deck, sunbathe or swim in the Adriatic Sea. Afternoons and evenings are carefully planned for you to explore Croatia's finest coastal destinations. 

Here are some useful information before embarking on this trip.

Croatia

With approximately 1,200 islands, azure waters and colourful villages rich in history, Croatia is drawing more and more travellers to its shores. Croatia is the Mediterranean's fastest-growing destination, luring travellers with its pristine national parks, adventure sports and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Croatia entered the European Union in the summer of 2013 as the 28th member state.

The mere mention of Croatia conjures up images of colourful landscapes, sparkling waters and fortified towns furnished with quaint outdoor cafés. Many of Europe's greatest empires, including the Romans, Venetians, Ottoman Turks and Habsburgs, left their mark on Croatia in architecture, language, art and food. Situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, Central Europe and the Balkans, Croatia has it all, from beautifully preserved medieval cities to stunning natural wonders.

Zagreb

Croatia's capital Zagreb has managed to preserve its distinctive beauty and relaxed atmosphere and is the perfect blend of a Central European metropolis and the relaxed tempo of the Mediterranean. Zagreb City Center is divided into Upper Town (Old Town or Gornji Grad) and Lower Town (New Town or Donji Grad). The Upper Town (divided into two parts – Gradec and Kaptol) is best explored on foot. The major attractions of Upper Town are Ban Josip Jelačić Square, Zagreb Cathedral, Dolac Market, Stone Gate, The Museum of Broken Relationships, St Mark's Square, Lotrščak Tower, and Strossmayer Promenade. Once you are done with the Upper Town and its attractions, you can ride the world's shortest funicular to reach the Lower Town.

Split

Split is the largest city on the Croatian coast, and yet it has preserved the relaxed lifestyle of the Mediterranean. You are expected to take it easy here since some call it "The craziest city in the world". The city grew around the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian, which had been built almost two millennia ago. The historic centre of Split, made entirely from white stone, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Still, the ancient landmarks are a familiar backdrop of everyday life - they are not enclosed or set up as an archaeological site. So Split has many sides: a rich history, exquisite food and wine, and endless fun. Prokurative, known as the Republic Square, is a big square west of Riva (waterfront). It resembles the Venetian St. Marcus Square. It is surrounded on three sides by Neo-Renaissance buildings with arches the square was named after.

Dubrovnik

This historic city-state used to be a maritime powerhouse that gained clout through diplomatic prowess. Dubrovnik was the first country in Europe to abolish slavery. It also introduced sewage and fire safety systems, a retirement home, double-entry bookkeeping, and maritime and insurance laws as early as the Middle Ages. One legal provision was particularly amusing: the city government was not allowed to make any crucial decisions during the period of the "jugo ", a wind that blows from the south that is usually blamed for ill moods by the inhabitants of the Adriatic Region. So, we can safely assume that the residents of Dubrovnik were refreshingly reasonable and had a penchant for hedonism, as evidenced by their villas in the surrounding area.

The Franciscan monastery is one of the oldest buildings in the city, full to the brim with ancient buildings. Amazingly it houses one of the oldest, continually in-use pharmacies in Europe. Stradun is the main street in the Old Town of Dubrovnik, and it connects the Gate of Pile and Gate of Ploče. Its name comes from the old Venetian word for "big street", but not many know that locals also like to call the street Placa. Stradun is 300 metres long, and there are many monuments you can see while walking along the street, such as the Large and Small Onofrio Fountain, St. Saviour Church, Sponza Palace and St. Blaise's Church (the patron saint of Dubrovnik).

Deluxe Cruise from Split to Dubrovnik:

Take the opportunity to explore the stunning natural environment and historical, quaint Mediterranean towns while hopping from one island to another. This unique way of travelling and exploring coastal towns is one of the most popular and easiest ways to experience authentic Croatia.

Departures from Split in 2022 (departure dates in 2023 on request)

•Saturdays: Jun 4, 11, 18, 25; Jul 2, 23, 30; Aug 13, 20, 27; Sep 3, 10; Oct 8;

•Wednesdays: Jul 6, 20; Aug 3;

DELUXE Category

Modern and state of the art vessels, 42 to 47 meters in length. The vast sun deck includes a hot tub, a beautiful lounge area and sunbeds to enjoy wonderful Adriatic scenery. Deluxe vessels feature spacious, lavishly designed, air-conditioned en-suite cabins (12 to 17m2 in size) with double or twin beds, safety deposit box, LCD TV, bathroom toiletries, hairdryer, cupboard & wardrobe cabinet. 

Day-by-day itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival to Zagreb

Rental car pick up at the airport in Zagreb. Check-in at the hotel. You can spend the rest of the day at leisure strolling the streets of Zagreb to get familiar with the city, depending upon the time you arrive in Zagreb. Take coffee like a genuine local at the Flower Square (Preradovićev Square), also called "the living room of Zagreb" or have dinner at one of the famous restaurants with local cuisine. Overnight in Zagreb.

DAY 2

Guided walking tour of Zagreb, afternoon arrival to Opatija

After breakfast at the hotel and check-out, you will enjoy a private walking tour of Zagreb. The tour will take you through the historic parts of Zagreb's Upper Town, along its narrow streets - each with its own stories from the past. The Stone Gate, Grič Cannon and St. Mark's Church are just some of the Upper Town's most cherished sights. You will notice the remains of the Kaptol's Romanesque fortifications scattered around the cathedral, and nearby is the "belly of the city "– Dolac market. After sightseeing, proceed to the "spa town" Opatija on the Kvarner Bay. Check-in at the hotel and rest of the day at leisure. Have a photo on the picturesque promenade, next to the statue on a sea rock – the Maiden with the Seagull – the famous symbol of Opatija. Overnight in Opatija.

DAY 3

Full-day excursion to the Istrian peninsula with truffle hunting

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you will drive to Pula, the largest city in Istria. Visit the Pula Arena, erected in the 1st century and primarily used for gladiator fights in front of 20,000 spectators. Coming up is a visit to the Augustus' Temple and the Forum Arch of the Sergii, a monument from the Roman era, also known as the Golden Gate. Proceed to Rovinj and relax in the most romantic place in the Mediterranean, dominated by the baroque church of Saint Euphemia with a 60-meter-high tower - the replica of the bell tower of St Mark's Basilica in Venice. Drive to Motovun region for truffle hunting demonstration with the help of experienced truffle dogs followed by a degustation of two meals with truffles in the local restaurant. Overnight in Opatija.

DAY 4

Visit the marvellous Plitvice Lakes National Park

Breakfast at the hotel and check-out. Drive continues to UNESCO protected Plitvice Lakes National Park, consisting of 16 lakes connected by magnificent waterfalls. Enjoy a walking tour strolling the wooden paths and nature trails surrounded by lush greenery and turquoise waters. A tour includes a boat and panoramic train ride and allows you to experience the magical beauty of the lakes and waterfalls. Plitvice can genuinely be called a Phenomenon of Nature. Wherever you look, everything you hear, smell or feel, you will experience another level of connection to the very essence of nature. Overnight in the Plitvice area.

DAY 5

From Plitvice Lakes via Zadar to Split with exceptional wine &food experience

Breakfast and check-out. Continuation of the journey to the coastal city of Zadar. Walking guided tour upon arrival - visit the Cathedral of St. Anastasia, the most impressive Basilica in Dalmatia, the church of St. Donatus, a representative bishop's chapel dating back to the 8th century and the ruins of the Roman Forum. Stop at the Greeting to the Sun and Sea organ installation and listen to the unique melody played by the waves. Continue to Skradin to the family-owned "boutique" winery. Enjoy a tasting menu with seven creative courses accompanied by a tasting of wines perfectly paired with each dish. Departure towards Split and check-in at the hotel. Overnight in Split.

DAY 6

Cruise from Split to Dubrovnik, a guided walking tour of Split

Breakfast at the hotel. Rental car drop off at the hotel prior to check-out. Time at leisure until transfer from the hotel to Split harbour for check-in from 14.00h onwards. After settling in, enjoy the guided tour of Split, a historic town under UNESCO world heritage protection with an abundance of Roman architecture – of particular interest is the magnificent Diocletian Palace, once the home to the Roman Emperor. After the tour, return to the ship for a welcome meet & greet cocktail reception on board. Overnight in Split.

DAY 7

Sail to the islands of Brač and Hvar

Breakfast and lunch on board. Morning departure to the island of Brač, time for swimming at the most famous beach in Dalmatia – Zlatni Rat near Bol. Its shingle promontory shifts from side to side as the wind and waves constantly cause the beach shape to change. Continue towards the jet-set island of Hvar with lunch on board at the Pakleni Islands. Hvar is the longest and sunniest island in the Adriatic, known for lush lavender fields and breathtaking beauty. Arrive in the afternoon for a guided tour of the Hvar town's historical landmarks - the Renaissance cathedral with its original tower and the oldest community theatre in Europe founded in 1612. In the evening, Hvar offers a great choice of entertainment - numerous restaurants, bars and clubs, with many open long into the night. Overnight in the port.

DAY 8

Magnificent Blue Cave on the Biševo Island, wine tasting on the island of Vis

Breakfast and lunch on board. Early morning cruise towards the small island Biševo to visit the Blue Cave, a magnificent natural phenomenon (entrance to be paid on the spot – approx. 10-15 EUR). As sometimes weather conditions can be very unpredictable, the possibility of a cave visit will depend on those conditions. Continue to the island of Vis, once a strategic naval Yugoslav base and closed to the public for years. The island of Vis, with its small open-sea islands, is becoming a worldwide attraction. The modern world started to discover once forbidden and unknown island zone in the Adriatic. Known as Vis town today, the main settlement on the island is also one of the oldest in Croatia and dates back to the 4th century BC. Tasting of local wines. If interested, visit the remains of the Roman Thermal Place and the City Museum or take a walk enjoying the views of the beautiful Villae Rusticae situated along the waterfront. Overnight in the port of Vis.

DAY 9

Sail to Korčula island, a guided walking tour of the enchanting town of Korčula

Breakfast and lunch on board. Early morning departure towards the island of Korčula, best known as the birthplace of Marco Polo. Stop for lunch in one of the secluded bays en route. Afternoon arrival in Korčula, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Mediterranean, is followed by a guided walking tour of this enchanting town surrounded by walls. The fishbone street pattern was used in Korčula Old Town's design to provide a natural cooling effect providing citizens with sheltered and comfortable accommodation. Optional excursion (payment on the spot) to a small village near Korčula for a typical Dalmatian dinner and more about the history and the traditional way of living. Overnight in Korčula.

DAY 10

Mljet National Park, the oldest marine protected area in the Mediterranean

Breakfast and lunch on board. In the morning, head further south to the Island of Mljet. The legend says Greek hero Odysseus spent years on this island when he was captured by the nymph Calypso. Join the cruise manager for a stroll to the famous salt lakes in Mljet National Park and enjoy the boat ride to St. Mary Isle to visit an ancient Benedictine monastery, an old abbey and a church dating back to the 12th century. Alternatively, rent kayaks, bicycles, scooters or convertible cars to roam around the National Park or island on your own, but beware of the nymphs! Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the island. Overnight in the port Polača or Pomena.

DAY 11

Hike the medieval walls in Ston and taste oysters in Mali Ston

Breakfast and lunch on board. Departure for the small village of Slano on the mainland, a peaceful fishermen's village and the starting point for Ston, once fortified small village famous for its oysters. After exploring the town's vast medieval ramparts (entrance to the Ston walls and Ston saltworks included), heading for a small village nearby Mali Ston to embark on an oyster tasting experience, a unique gastronomic attraction. Transfer back to the vessel for the Captain's dinner with live entertainment. Overnight in the port.

DAY 12

Guided walking tour of Dubrovnik with a cable car ride to Srđ mountain

Breakfast and lunch on board. Early morning departure to Dubrovnik, one of the world's most beautifully preserved medieval cities. Before tied up at the Gruž harbour, enjoy a cruise alongside the old Dubrovnik city walls while lunch is served on deck. After docking, transfer to the Old Town for the guided walking tour. Take the cable car (included) from the Old Town to Srđ mountain to enjoy scenic views of the Walls and the Elaphiti Islands. Meander through the narrow streets, exploring the Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture or walk on top of the 1940 m long city walls. Overnight in the port in Dubrovnik.

DAY 13

Disembark and enjoy a day at leisure in the spectacular city of Dubrovnik

Gather for one final breakfast on the vessel, followed by goodbyes to your crew and new friends.

Check-out till 09:00 am. Private transfer from the port to the hotel for check-in. Time at leisure. Do some shopping or carry on with a great cup of macchiato or cappuccino in Buža cafe, on the very rocks and overlooking the Italian horizon to the West. Enjoy lunch on your own in one of the famous restaurants in the Old Town, and taste local dishes such as pašticada with gnocchi, cheese in oil, and the traditional dessert of Dubrovnik - "rožata". Overnight in Dubrovnik.

DAY 14

Farewell Dubrovnik

Breakfast and time at leisure until check-out. Private transfer from the hotel to Dubrovnik airport.

If you have some more spare time, experience the Grand Market. Many stalls stock traditional local sweets, such as dried figs, arancini (candied orange peel) and broštulani mjenduli (candied almonds), and offer a free taste before you buy. 

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What happens when you request an offer?

1

We will double-check availability and make reservations for your rooms, restaurants, guides etc.

2

With reservations confirmed, we will prepare the best offer possible in regard to your arrival date & party size

3

You will get the offer via e-mail, along with the payment options. Feel free to request further customisations!

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