Croatia's Mainland Marvels

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Dubrovnik

   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.

   After your flight arrives in Dubrovnik, we will have someone meet you at the airport and bring you to your accommodation. Duration of the drive is about 30 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

2. Day 2 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

   

   Sunset Cruise Private Experience

   Feel the cool sea breeze as you sail past Porporela, with the Old Town under the setting sun. The boat glides under Fort Lovrjenac, before continuing toward the lush island of Lokrum. As the sun sets, you’ll cruise by Sv. Jakov beach, enjoying stunning views of the Old Town. The journey ends with a relaxing ride back to the Old Port, accompanied by a glass of chilled wine.

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

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

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Dubrovnik

   

   Countryside Olive Grove Group Experience

   Step into the charm of Zupa Dubrovacka, a short drive from Dubrovnik Old Town. Enjoy a warm welcome with homemade rakija, sugared almonds, and fresh figs. Take a leisurely stroll through the olive grove, guided by our friendly Certified Olive Oil Sommelier, hearing tales of old-fashioned olive cultivation. Then, dive into the fun of tasting renowned oils paired with local treats —all beneath the shady olive trees, blending tradition and nature.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

4. Day 4 Traveling to Split by Ferry / Arrival in Split

   

   Today you're off to Split! Our representative in Dubrovnik will provide you with tickets for the ferry. You will be picked up from your accommodation by your private driver who will take you to the port in plenty of time for your departure. Duration of the journey is about 4 hours on a comfortable public catamaran with bathrooms and snack/coffee bar. Alternatively, if you are looking for an opportunity to sight-see along the way, we recommend our private transfer option. For an additional fee, we can arrange for a private driver to pick you up in Dubrovnik and bring you straight to Split. If you choose, you can stop along the way, perhaps to explore Ston, the oyster capital of Croatia, or Mostar in Bosnia to see the famously reconstructed bridge.

   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.

   After arriving at Split's ferry port, you'll have an easy walk to your accommodations in Split's center. We will arrange assistance with your luggage.

   

   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

5. Day 5 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

   

   The Walls and Ways of Split

   Split's old town is an excellent representative of ancient Roman architecture. Getting lost in Diocletian's Palace, you'll wonder how the place's massive stones could have been hauled here and carved 1,700 years ago. Split's past is made clear by its landmarks, such as the world's second oldest cathedral (only Armenia has anywhere older), which was originally Emperor Diocletian's mausoleum. A short distance away, you'll find a pagan temple likewise turned into an early church.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

   

   Secret Marjan Group Hiking Tour

   Spend a relaxing day walking and hiking around one of the gems of Split, Marjan Park Forest. Discover the history and culture behind the medieval churches and hermit settlements hidden in the rocks at the very core of the park. Choose between the "greet the day" early morning departure or a sunset hiking tour and traverse through hidden

   path​s of Marjan with an experienced guide who will share all the local knowledge about Split & Marjan Park and their history with you.

   • Activity Level : Strenuous
   • Duration : 3 hours

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

6. Day 6 Traveling to Plitvice by Private Transfer / Arrival in Plitvice

   

   Today you're bound for the Plitvice Lakes, the most scenic and popular national park on the Balkan Peninsula. We'll arrange for a private driver to pick you up from your accommodations in Split and drive you to Plitvice, with a stop in Trogir, a UNESCO-listed wall city across the bay from Split. You'll have an hour of free time to explore Trogir before continuing your journey. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver. The total duration of the drive is about 4 hours.

   For an extra fee, we can organize a private local guide in Trogir, to make the most of your time there.

   The Plitvice Lakes are one of the most beautiful natural settings in Croatia. The national park has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and it’s easy to see why. You’ll find 16 lakes here in a stunning array of colors. Surrounding the lakes for 200 miles, the park has numerous hiking trails and plenty of places to appreciate the scenery. The lakes and waterfalls themselves stretch across five miles. This is nature at its most untouched!

   The driver will take you to your accommodations and after the check-in, you can spend the afternoon exploring this magnificent park. Please note that the driver service is booked until the arrival to your hotel, and does not apply to transfer to the park entrance after the check-in.

   

   An Active Day in the Park

   Are you in the mood for some running or hiking? If your answer is "yes," Plitvice is the perfect place for you. With its exceptional natural beauty, this area has always attracted active nature lovers. Once you enter the park, we assure you that you will want to explore every part of this amazing place. Use the opportunity to reconnect with nature in Croatia's first national park. Put on some comfortable clothes and footwear and explore one of the four hiking trails or seven different walking routes in the park.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

7. Day 7 Traveling to Zagreb by Private Car / Arrival in Zagreb

   

   A private driver will pick you up at your accommodation for your trip to Zagreb. Duration of the journey is about 2 hours.

   Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver. 

   Zagreb is a city where different worlds have long come together. Situated at the intersection of ancient trade routes between the Adriatic and Central Europe, it is a cosmopolitan place with various cultural influences evident in the cuisine and architecture at home in any Austro-Hungarian city. You’ll love exploring the open-air markets, impressive buildings, peaceful parks, and many delicious restaurants. Just strolling through the unique combination of medieval towers, 19th century palaces, ancient churches, and market squares is a pleasure, but there’s much more to do here. After exploring all that the city has to offer with a local guide, you’ll be able to make the most of your time. You could also take a guided bike tour around the city, to get a little exercise as you experience the city. But you’ll also want to explore some of the region surrounding Zagreb. As a longer day trip, you could see the delightful Trakoscan, a neo-Gothic castle sitting on a hilltop, surrounded by a romantic English style park with exotic trees and an artificial lake. While you’re there you can also stop in Varazdin to appreciate its ornate baroque architecture.

   Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodation upon arriving in Zagreb.

   

   Take it Easy

   Meet Zagreb and Croatia through their best product - delicious wine! In only an hour, you’ll have a tour through the country’s wine regions with a knowledgeable and passionate guide. In one of the oldest wine cellars in Croatia, you'll enjoy three reds and two whites, accompanied by champagne and small bites of locally produced cheese and olive oil.
   

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 1 hour

   Included in your vacation package price

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Zagreb

   

   Zagreb City Private Tour with Traditional Strukli Tasting

   Join this walking tour not only to visit all the main attractions and landmarks of Zagreb center and historical Upper Town but also to try one of the most popular dishes of Zagreb region - delicious strukli. When you are done with the sightseeing you will visit a small restaurant in the center of Zagreb specialised exclusively for strukli. Although the classic cheese edition occupies center stage, they have other equally tasty sweet and salty versions so you will surely make the right choice whichever you choose!

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Unique Museums

   Explore numerous museums in Zagreb, each offering a unique experience. Highlights include the Museum of Broken Relationships, the currently closed Arts and Crafts Museum, the Zagreb 80s Museum, the Museum of Illusions, and more. The Museum of Broken Relationships originated as a traveling exhibition centered on unsuccessful relationships, highlighting the journey of overcoming emotional pain through creation and rebirth. The Zagreb 80s Museum provides a vivid reconstruction of everyday life in former Yugoslavia, seamlessly merging past and future, way of life and heritage, and memories and emotions in an interactive presentation. Meanwhile, at the Museum of Illusions, immerse yourself in a captivating world that challenges your senses and brings immense delight. It's an initially confusing but ultimately educational and enjoyable experience for all. Choose your favorite!
   

   Suggestion to explore on your own

9. Day 9 Departure Day

   We'll arrange for a transfer from your accommodation to Zagreb's airport. Duration of the drive is about 30 minutes.