A Memorable Two-Week Croatia & Greece Vacation

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Split

   The Roman Emperor Diocletian made Split his home in the 4th Century AD, building a vast palace complex on the waterfront that stands to this day. In fact several of the accommodation options we offer in Split are nestled inside its ancient walls. These days there is an embankment in front of Diocletian's palace but the water used to go right up to the main wall. It's on this man-made strip of land that you'll find the Riva, a pedestrian promenade bustling with life. Split's UNESCO listed Old Town is contained within these old walls and is a pedestrian-only maze that it is quite easy, but fun, to get lost in. Who know what romantic hidden cafés you might find in one of the narrow streets and alleyways? To get the best out of your time in Split, however, we recommend taking a tour with a local guide. Split is very well connected for flights, with an international airport a half hour drive away and is a popular stopping point for our guests on their way between Dubrovnik and the islands of Hvar, Vis, or Korcula, all easily reached by a ferry from Split's port. If you base yourself in Split for a few days, you will find it is also perfect located for visits to some of Croatia's most stunning national parks.

   When you arrive, we'll arrange for a driver to greet you and take you to your centrally located Split accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.

   

   The Right Place for Ancient Times

   The best way to get started in Split is to spend time on the former grounds of Diocletian's Palace. Visit Peristil, the palace's main square, sit on its ancient stairs, and enjoy the remarkable view. Or take a seat at a cafe on the square to order a glass of local wine and take it easy. If you need to stretch your legs, head on a pleasant walk on the West Coast and enjoy the light sea breeze and amazing view of the main Riva promenade and the Palace. On the West Coast (Zapadna Obala), you will discover an interesting fact about Split: it is considered the sportiest town in the world. Here, you will find the names of more than 80 Olympic winners from Split! Take your pick among the area's many bars for a delicious cocktail!

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Split

   

   Explore Diocletian's Palace with an Expert Guide

   Today you’ll explore the inspiring city of Split with a local guide. You’ll be picked up at your accommodation and led through the UNESCO-listed 1,700-year-old Diocletian’s palace, which is just the beginning of the tour. You’ll also see the Cathedral of Saint Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural wonders on the Adriatic coast. And you’ll explore the ancient cellars as well as the square in the center of the palace. The stunning Roman temples will awaken the spirit of another time for you, as will the famous Golden Gate and the big statue of Grgur Ninski. This is the best way to get to know the incredible history of this ancient city center.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Historic Flavors

   Discover the rich history and vibrant culinary scene of Split on our Split History and Food Group Tour. Stroll through ancient streets, uncovering the secrets of Diocletian's Palace, and savor authentic Dalmatian flavors at local eateries. Our expert guides will lead you on a journey through time, blending fascinating stories with delicious bites. Book your adventure and experience Split like never before!

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   Watch the video

3. Day 3 Traveling to Hvar by Ferry / Arrival in Hvar

   

   It's time to visit the fantastic island of Hvar! The ferry port is within easy walking distance from your accommodation and we'll provide tickets to the ferry based on your preferred departure time. We will arrange for assistance with your luggage. Duration of the ferry ride is 1 hour.

   One of the gems of the Adriatic, Hvar is more than a beautiful coastal town. It’s also an ancient epicenter of culture, boasting the oldest communal theater in Europe, and a stunning medieval fortress dating back to the 7th century. There’s a little bit of everything here, from history and architecture to modern culture, outdoor adventures and isolated beaches. Whether you want a vacation that’s action-packed or something more relaxing, Hvar will offer more than enough variety to please you. The longest of the Adriatic islands, Hvar’s fertile landscape makes it perfect for growing grapes, giving you several local vineyards to visit. Be sure to sample the local cuisine, which emphasizes freshly caught fish, warm bread, and vegetables grown on the island. We can offer a tasting tour at the finest local vineyards. Those seeking an active vacation will not be disappointed either, as there are several possibilities for sailing, swimming, exploring the sea caves along the coast. You can also take a hike in Hvar's many hills, or go offroad with a local guide. This is a relaxing destination with warm locals. It’s an ideal summer vacation spot.

   When you arrive in the port of Hvar town, you will be met at the closest pick up point and brought to your accommodation.

   

   The Tastes of Hvar

   The people of Hvar have made the most of Hvar's warm, sunny climate for centuries, cultivating excellent wine. Today, wines from Hvar are some of the finest in Croatia, often garnering top honors at international wine competitions. Today we recommend getting a taste of the local wine culture, with a fully guided four-hour wine tasting tour. The tour is designed to be informative, and above all, fun. If you are not interested in a tour, we recommend lunch in town at Konoba Dalmatino where you will get a taste of great local food and wine.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   Watch the video

4. Day 4 Your First Full Day in Hvar

   

   The Heavenly "Hellish" Pakleni Islands

   There's no better way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Adriatic than on this half-day sailing tour. You'll have the chance to swim, then savor a glass of delicious wine on the boat. To add more magic to the experience, you can sail into the sunset while the sound of the waves provides beautiful music.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3-4 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

5. Day 5 Traveling to Dubrovnik by Ferry / Arrival in Dubrovnik

   

   It is time to visit Dubrovnik, the city on the sea that you've heard so much about. Your representative will provide tickets to the morning ferry, meaning you'll arrive in Dubrovnik in time to enjoy most of the afternoon in the city. Duration of the drive is about 3,5 hours.

   This ferry service is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Dubrovnik but if you would prefer taking the opportunity to see some sights along the way, for additional fee there's an option of going first to Split by ferry and taking a private transfer from there. If you choose, you can stop along the way, perhaps to explore Ston, the oyster capital of Croatia, or the city of Mostar in Bosnia. Please note that this is a full day transfer.
   

   Dubrovnik offers an unusual blend of modern culture and ancient traditions. Marble-smooth polished limestone streets, a labyrinth of alleyways, and breathtaking architecture compose the unique atmosphere of the Old Town. You’ll experience a true variety of sightseeing, leisure, and outdoor adventures here. Dubrovnik’s most stunning feature is the 82-foot tall city wall which extends more than a mile. Game of Thrones fans will be in luck, as we offer a special tour to local set locations. King’s Landing never looked so good! There’s a rich selection of live performances for music lovers here, as concerts are performed daily, and in July and August the Dubrovnik Summer Festival of music, theatre and dance brings incredible performers from around the world. The nightlife is also exciting, with restaurants, cafes and bars that will keep you socializing until dawn. You’ll be staying in beautiful accommodation within short walking distance to all the major sites, so you’ll be able to sample a little of everything. But there are also several exciting day trips and cruises to enjoy. From kayaking through hidden coves to an authentic Croatian cooking class, vineyard tours, and trips as far afield as Montenegro, you’ll have more than enough to fill your itinerary.

   Upon your arrival to the Dubrovnik port, our driver will wait for you and take you to your accommodations. The drive from the port to the city takes about 20 minutes.

   

   Night and the City

   Discover the beauty of Dubrovnik while strolling down its cobbled streets and have a drink on the main street, where you can simply sit back and observe the world bustling around you. Head to the beloved local spot, Gradska Kavana Arsenal Restaurant, and you'll instantly feel like you've entered a living piece of history. It is a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to soak up the city's authentic vibe. And then there's the secret garden M'arden – a hidden gem nestled within the ancient city walls. It's the kind of place that whispers tranquility, inviting you to escape the hustle and bustle. As the night falls, the garden transforms into a magical retreat, making it a perfect spot for those seeking a peaceful and enchanting experience. For a different perspective, venture to the famous Buza Bar. With a name translating to "Hole in the Wall," Buza is not just a great bar but a lovely location, offering breathtaking views of incredible scenery at sunset. These three places, each with its unique charm, capture the essence of Dubrovnik in ways that words can only begin to describe.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

6. Day 6 Your First Full Day in Dubrovnik

   

   Explore Dubrovnik's Center on Foot

   Today, you’ll be exploring the elegant main streets and picturesque paths of Dubrovnik with your own personal guide. This truly is one of the most beautiful medieval cities on the Adriatic, with superb locations such as the Franciscan Monastery, Onofrio’s Fountains, Sponza Palace, Orlando’s Column, the City Bell Tower, the Church of St. Blaise (the city’s patron saint), and Rector’s Palace, the seat of the Republic, and the Cathedral. This is the perfect orientational tour of the Old Town and will give you the best insight into the rich history of Dubrovnik. You’ll learn what there is to see and do in Dubrovnik and how to get around.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 1 hour and 30 minutes

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Post-Tour Delights: City Walls, Cable Car, and Lokrum Island

   Keep the Dubrovnik magic alive after your tour by hopping on the cable car to Mount Srd'. Just head out of the city through the Buza Gate, and you'll find the cable car station. The views from up Mount Srd' are absolutely stunning. Once you're back down, wander over to the city walls for a unique peek into Dubrovnik's history and stunning architecture. Don't forget to climb Minceta Tower for a panoramic view that complements the beauty seen from the cable car. And if you're still craving different perspectives, why not hop on a boat from the Old Town harbor to Lokrum Island? It's just ten minutes away and is like a peaceful nature escape with peacocks, old monastery spots, and a gorgeous botanical garden surrounded by pine, cypress, and olive trees. A perfect way to wrap up your day in Dubrovnik!
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Your Second Full Day in Dubrovnik

   Visit a Neighboring Country on a Private Tour

   Dubrovnik is near where three countries meet, so why not experience an entirely new country? We have two memorable suggestions: Mostar in Bosnia, and the coast of Montenegro, including Kotor. Two hours from Dubrovnik, UNESCO-listed Mostar is famous for the arch bridge connecting the city's two halves. To better understand Ottoman life, we recommend exploring Mostar's bazaars, churches, and mosques. Located less than an hour south of Dubrovnik, Montenegro’s exceptional beauty is on display everywhere, alongside its deep history and culture. The Bay of Kotor is Europe’s southernmost fjord, home to the UNESCO-listed town of Kotor, encircled by Venetian walls. Our Bay of Kotor follows the town with a visit to Our Lady of the Rocks, a shrine atop an island created over the centuries one rock at a time by devout fishermen thankful to have safely returned home with another day's catch.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Mostar Private Tour

   One of the great advantages of visiting Croatia is how close it is to remarkable sites in neighbouring countries, including the enchanting city of Mostar. Here you can experience the atmosphere of the old Ottoman Empire while still being in the heart of Europe. As you explore the Old Town, the Bazaar, the Turkish House and its beautiful mosques, you’ll quickly see why Mostar is so memorable.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 10 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Highlights of Montenegro: Kotor & Perast Private Day Tour

   While you're enjoying Dubrovnik you also have the chance to visit Montenegro for a day. You'll love exploring Montenegro's contrasting landscapes, and its interesting history, culture, and traditions. This private tour starts in the morning, when your driver will pick you up at your accommodation. The majority of your trip will be spent in the beautiful Bay of Kotor. Along the way you will also visit Perast and a take a short boat trip to visit the island in the bay, famous for the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 9 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Croatian Family Style Peka Dining Group Experience

   Experience the warmth of a true local dining tradition in a brand-new setting! A beloved local family, once known for hosting intimate dinners in their home, has now opened a beautiful restaurant in the heart of the old town. With space for 40 guests, you can enjoy their famous homemade dishes—authentic Peka, fresh-baked bread, local wine, and homemade grappa—while meeting new people in a charming hidden terrace. It’s the same heartfelt hospitality, now with more room to share unforgettable meals and stories!

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 2 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Traveling to Athens by Airplane / Arrival in Athens

   

   From Dubrovnik to Athens the best option will be to take a flight on the low cost airline. On your day of departure, a driver will pick you up at your accommodation and bring you to the airport for your flight. Suggested Flight: Departure: Arrival:

   
   

   Please note that the flight included in your package is non-refundable. In case you would prefer more flexibility, we can check the flexible fares for you and let you know about the price difference. In addition, the price of the flights is subject to change until we receive your deposit.

   Although it's hard to not keep craning your head to take in the spectacle of the Acropolis at the center of town (especially when it's lit up at night), there's more to Athens than its dense concentration of ancient ruins. Athens is a center for contemporary art, with modern galleries sitting beside museums stuffed with art dating back millennia. This combination of the old and new is especially clear at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus, a spectacular open-air theater that has hosted concerts and plays for nearly 2,000 years. The city's culture is also reflected in its diverse food and drink, which combines traditional Greek favorites with influences from across the Mediterranean, and the world, as fitting Athens' deep history as a humming harbor hub. While Athens' variety is enough to keep you busy, from the hidden back alleys of the center, to the city's showy coast, the city works well as a base for day trips, whether down the coast, or to the Peloponnese. Head to oracular Delphi, or hunt for where Lord Byron's carved his name into the monumental Temple of Poseidon at the tip of Cape Sounion.

   Upon your arrival in Athens, a driver will meet you and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive takes about 45 minutes, depending on traffic.

   

   Love at First Sight

   Athens has plenty of rooftop venues to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Acropolis shining at night. They have become popular hubs for nightlife among locals. One of our favorite rooftop bars is POINT A (Acropolis Point), which is the only bar that provides views of both the Acropolis and the modern elegant lines of the Acropolis Museum, lit beautifully at night. POINT A has a relaxed vibe and Greek cuisine with a twist. It’s perfect for couples and even families or groups of friends. If you happen to stay around the Monastiraki district, you should definitely visit A for Athens cocktail bar and restaurant, a popular venue among locals. Hytra and GB Roof Garden are full-on luxury restaurants and bars that can provide perfect romantic evenings. We guarantee that if you spend your first night dining at one of those places, you will quickly fall in love with the mind-blowing views and lively city.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Your First Full Day in Athens

   

   Best of Ancient and Modern Athens Private Tour

   Take this private tour to get the most of what there is to see in Athens in just one day - and we don’t just mean the ancient ruins! You will also visit other unmissable spots – a modern Athens tour of the places where Athenians actually hang out.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 6 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

10. Day 10 Traveling to Naxos by Ferry / Arrival in Naxos

    

    Naxos awaits you today! A driver will pick you up from from your accommodations and take you to the port of Piraeus, where you'll catch your ferry to Naxos. The duration of the journey is around 3 hours 30 minutes/5 hours 30 minutes based on your preferred departure time.

    The largest island in the Cyclades, Naxos frequently appears lists of the most authentic Greek islands and for good reason, as it is large enough to not rely solely on tourism. Gracefully lying in the heart of the Aegean, this dazzling Greek jewel is an ideal destination for those who wish to indulge in life's simple pleasures, great food, and gorgeous sandy beaches. What visitors love most about Naxos is the genuine rural charm found in the island’s picturesque mountainous villages, which dot the rugged landscape. Naxos has been the source of quality marble for centuries, and its ancient marble quarries, and their products, are some of the island's many highlights. Naxian marble was used to create the extraordinary sculptures that can be admired on the island of Delos and the archaeological site of Delphi. At sunset, enjoy a leisurely walk along the harbor of Chora (Naxos' old town) towards the island's most imposing landmark: the Portara. This massive marble doorway dates back to 530 B.C. and was built to honor the god of light, Apollo, although it was never fully completed. The myths and legends surrounding the island of Naxos are worth the trip alone. After sunset, head to one of the local tavernas found inside the fortified walls of the Venetian castle, the Kastro.

    Upon arriving at the port, you'll be taken to your accommodations in Naxos.

    

    Portara, the Great Door of Naxos

    Portara is the symbol of the island. If you come to Naxos by ferry, it is one of the first things you see as you approach the island. This marvelous, massive marble door frame is what’s left of a portal to an Ionic temple devoted to Apollo, which started in the 6th century BC but was never finished. It's located on a small promontory overlooking the island of Delos, the mythological birthplace of Apollo and Artemis. It is a memorable location, and we find it incredibly photogenic at sunset, so we recommend visiting after your first dinner on the island.

    Suggestion to explore on your own

11. Day 11 Your First Full Day in Naxos

    

    Naxos Town Group Food Tour

    On this tour, indulge in a culinary adventure, savoring local delights like fine Naxian cheeses paired with wine, traditional Naxian potatoes, and savory phyllo snacks. Traverse from the historical port to the majestic castle, winding through the charming Venetian Old Town adorned with vibrant fruit stands, aromatic herb stalls, and quaint alleyways. Delight in various traditional mezes and local delicacies, all while gaining insights into Naxos's rich culinary heritage and the people behind its regional cuisine.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 3 hours and 30 minutes

    Included in your vacation package price

    

    Beaches for All Tastes

    Naxos has plenty of beaches, ranging from the convenient and amenity-rich to the remote but untouched and deserted.

    For convenience, Agios Georgios is ideal. It's right on the southern edge of Chora but clean and welcoming.

    One of the most popular beaches is the Blue Flag-certified Agios Prokopios, which is within walking distance of town. Plaka Beach is long and wide, with dunes and just the occasional building beyond, including beach bars, tavernas, and rental places. It's 4km (2.5 miles) long, so it has plenty of room!

    People who prefer their beaches long, deserted, and windswept should go to Mikri Vigla, 10km (6.2 miles) from the town of Naxos.

    The white sandy beach, also known as the Sahara, is open to the Etesian wind, which blows through the Cyclades from the north.

    This produces low, rolling waves and powers the sails and kites of windsurfers and kite-surfers.

    A place to get away from it all is Alyko, which is in a natural reserve in southwestern Naxos and is usually devoid of tourists.
    

    Suggestion to explore on your own

12. Day 12 Your Second Full Day in Naxos

    Far More than Just Beaches

    Naturally, as a large island, Naxos offers many activities connected with water and beaches. Swimming, snorkeling, and diving are very popular activities, together with windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing. However, Naxos also has plenty to offer inland, like mountain biking and hiking. If you'd like to experience something hard to do back home, you can charter your own mini yacht and visit neighboring islands like Paros, Antiparos, Delos, Mykonos, Iraklia, Schinoussa, Koufonissia or Donoussa.

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Full-Day Private Yacht Cruise

    Step aboard and embark on the experience of a lifetime, exploring secluded beaches and coves with crystal-clear waters. Enjoy a delicious onboard lunch featuring local delicacies and refreshing drinks, making this tailor-made catamaran trip a highlight of your Cyclades adventure.

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 7 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Naxos Rugged Landscapes Private Hike

    Without any doubt, hiking on Naxos is a fantastic “all five senses” experience! You will experience the rich and magnificient nature of the island and learn about the history and traditions, plants and herbs and their healing powers. And of course, you will enjoy the local cuisine
    

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 5 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

13. Day 13 Traveling to Santorini by Ferry / Arrival in Santorini

    

    Today you will travel from Naxos to Santorini by ferry. A driver will pick you up at your accommodations and take you to the port. Then you will take the ferry to Santorini, which takes around 1 hour 30 minutes / 3 hours based on your preferred departure time.

    “Intelligent adults come here and turn into infants,” Craig Walzer, owner of the Atlantis Bookstore. Santorini is every traveler's dream. The whitewashed houses and blue domed churches perched atop of soaring cliffs, the narrow cobblestone streets and unsurpassed views of crystal-clear blue waters -- these all greet you as you step foot on this fairytale land. Intertwining myth and reality, Santorini is every bit as beautiful as the countless postcards, magazine covers, and Instagram photos claim. The village of Oia is world-famous for its sunset, where thousands of spectators line up every evening to witness the magic as the sun bids farewell to the sky and the canvas lights up in fierce hues. Fortunately, the sunset can be enjoyed from much of the rest of this crescent-shaped island. Santorini is also home to Akrotiri, the Greek take on Pompeii. Inhabited since Neolithic times, this city was built up by the Minoans, a seafaring civilization that predated the ancient Greeks, only to be destroyed in the catastrophic eruption that shaped Santorini, which forms part of a massive volcanic caldera. Covered in ashes for millennia, Akrotiri is still being uncovered. We suggest visiting the neighboring center of the caldera, where you can enjoy hot springs, visit the volcanic crater, and enjoy stunning views of Santorini itself. Santorini’s unique ecology, climate and volcanic ash soil paved the way for a flourishing wine industry. Its indigenous varietals will make your stay even more enjoyable.

    Upon arrival to Santorini's port, you'll be taken to your hotel in Fira.

    

    Santorini Sunset Group Food Adventure

    The best way to get to know a place is through its food and you will be taken on an unforgettable tasty journey through the scenic footpaths perched at the Caldera’s cliffs from Firostefani to Fira. On this Santorini tour, you’ll immerse yourself in the yummy local culinary culture, admire some of the island’s best sights, visit a mix of famous spots, historic haunts, and hidden gems.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 4 hours

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

14. Day 14 Your First Full Day in Santorini

    

    Premium Group Catamaran Cruise

    Santorini’s volcanic landscape is best explored from the water, so set sail on this top-rated catamaran cruise, which will bring you to the island’s best beaches, viewpoints, and even directly inside the caldera, with a small group of fellow travelers. Along the way, you'll soak in natural hot springs, swim and snorkel off the Red Beach, and take in views of nearby Cyclades islands. An open bar and buffet lunch served right onboard keep you refreshed and energized throughout the voyage.

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 5 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

15. Day 15 Departure Day

    Today a driver will pick you up from your accommodations and take you straight to Santorini's airport.