Croatia Dalmatian Coast Explorer

Arrival in Dubrovnik

Arrive at Dubrovnik Airport and transfer to your hotel within walking distance of the Old Town. Step through the Pile Gate into the UNESCO-listed walled city, strolling down the polished limestone Stradun boulevard and taking in views of the terracotta rooftops and glittering Adriatic. Welcome dinner at a restaurant on the Old Port, sampling Dalmatian black risotto and local Plavac Mali wine.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel near Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik — City Walls & Old Town

Morning walk along Dubrovnik's legendary city walls, a nearly two-kilometer circuit offering spectacular views over the red-roofed Old Town, the harbor, and the island of Lokrum. Visit the Rector's Palace, the Franciscan Monastery with its ancient pharmacy, and Fort Lovrijenac. Afternoon Game of Thrones filming locations tour, visiting sites used for King's Landing, the Red Keep, and the House of the Undying.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel near Dubrovnik Old Town

Dubrovnik to Hvar — Island Paradise

Morning catamaran across the Adriatic to the sun-drenched island of Hvar, known for its lavender fields, medieval architecture, and vibrant nightlife. Explore the charming Hvar Town, climbing to the Spanish Fortress for panoramic views over the Pakleni Islands. Afternoon free to relax on the beach, rent a boat to explore hidden coves, or browse the waterfront promenade cafes.

Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Hvar Town

Hvar — Blue Cave & Pakleni Islands

Full-day boat excursion visiting the mesmerizing Blue Cave on Bisevo Island, where sunlight refracts through an underwater opening to illuminate the cavern in an ethereal blue glow. Continue to the Pakleni Islands for swimming in secluded bays and a seafood lunch on Palmizana. Return to Hvar for a dinner of fresh grilled fish and Dalmatian peka at a hilltop konoba restaurant.

Accommodation: Boutique hotel in Hvar Town

Hvar to Split — Diocletian's Legacy

Ferry crossing to Split, Croatia's second-largest city built in and around the ancient Roman Diocletian's Palace. Guided tour of the palace complex, exploring the underground cellars, the Peristyle courtyard, and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, originally the emperor's mausoleum. Wander through the lively Riva waterfront promenade and the colorful Pazar green market.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Split

Split — Free Day & Coastal Exploration

Day at leisure in Split to explore at your own pace. Options include visiting the Mestrovic Gallery, swimming at Bacvice Beach, or taking a day trip to the nearby medieval fortress town of Trogir, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, hike up Marjan Hill for sweeping views over the city, the harbor, and the offshore islands stretching to the horizon.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Split

Plitvice Lakes National Park

Early departure for a full-day excursion to Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia's most visited natural wonder and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Follow wooden boardwalks past 16 cascading turquoise lakes connected by waterfalls, through dense beech and fir forests teeming with wildlife. Enjoy a traditional lamb-on-the-spit lunch at a park restaurant before returning to Split for a farewell dinner.

Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Split

Departure from Split

Final morning free for a last coffee on the Riva promenade or quick souvenir shopping for Croatian lavender products and Pag Island cheese. Transfer to Split Airport for your departure flight, departing with memories of ancient walls, island sunsets, and turquoise lakes.