Highlights of Croatia
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTELS
SIGHTSEEING
FLIGHT
MEALS
This journey takes you through Croatia’s coastal gems and historic capital, from the medieval charm of Dubrovnik’s Old Town to Zadar’s innovative Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun, ending in Zagreb with its elegant architecture and lively streets. Enjoy a perfect blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty along the Adriatic coast.
OVERVIEW
Discover the beauty, history, and charm of Croatia on this thoughtfully paced journey from the sparkling shores of Dubrovnik to the vibrant streets of Zagreb. Designed for comfort and cultural depth, this itinerary highlights the very best of the Dalmatian coast and inland Croatia without feeling rushed.
Begin in Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” where medieval city walls, limestone streets, and azure waters create an unforgettable setting. Explore the Old City with its historic palaces, churches, and iconic landmarks, and enjoy optional day trips to Montenegro or Bosnia and Herzegovina. Continue north to Zadar, a coastal gem where Roman ruins blend with contemporary art installations like the Sea Organ and Greeting to the Sun. Finally, conclude your adventure in Zagreb, Croatia’s elegant capital, featuring Austro-Hungarian architecture, bustling squares, and charming streets, offering a perfect finale to your Croatian exploration.
Itinerary
Prepare yourself! You are leaving today for Lima to start your CROATIA TOUR – from Dubrovnik to Zagreb!
Greetings in the charming city of Dubrovnik, Croatia! Upon your arrival at the airport, your designated driver will be waiting for you at the exit gates, easily recognizable with a sign bearing your name. They will then transport you to your conveniently situated hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. You have the option to wander through the enchanting city center at your leisure, savor a delightful meal at one of the nearby eateries, or simply relax and rejuvenate in preparation for the exciting sightseeing agenda set for the upcoming day.
Overnight in Dubrovnik
After enjoying your morning meal, you embark on a guided exploration of Dubrovnik, led by a knowledgeable expert who will introduce you to the city's primary attractions.
Dubrovnik, recognized as one of the Mediterranean's most splendid medieval cities, has earned a place on UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage List due to its impeccably preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque churches, monasteries, palaces, and fountains. Your walking expedition through the Old City commences at Pile Gate and encompasses a stroll along its graceful main thoroughfare, featuring prominent landmarks such as Onofrio's Fountains, Sponza Palace, Orlando's Column, City Bell Tower, and the Church of St. Blaise, the city's revered patron saint, among others. As part of the tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the interiors of the Franciscan Monastery and the Rector's Palace.
Subsequent to the tour, you'll return to your hotel, with the remainder of the day available for your leisure and relaxation.
Overnight in Dubrovnik
You have a free day in Dubrovnik to spend as you please. You can explore the city on your own or take part in any of the optional excursions. You could also relax at your hotel, stroll along the Old Town, enjoy a seaside café, or try some local cuisine. Alternately, pre-book one of the suggested tours, such as Mostar & Kravica Waterfall or Montenegro including Kotor & Perast. Whatever you choose, make the most of your free day and enjoy your time in Dubrovnik!
Overnight in Dubrovnik
Optional Tour 1 – Day trip to Mostar & Kravica Waterfall including lunch
Commence your journey in Dubrovnik and savor a drive of under two hours in the company of your English-speaking chauffeur. Traverse the picturesque roads of Croatia and venture across the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina. Your initial destination is the Kravica Falls, a hidden gem of Bosnia and Herzegovina. These cascades, shaped by the Trebizat River, form a serene backdrop for swimming and leisurely picnics during the summer months. Subsequently, proceed to your next point of interest, the city of Mostar. Meander through the winding cobblestone alleys of the historic town and stand in awe of the Old Bridge that spans the Neretva River. Lunch in Mostar. Lastly, make a visit to the medieval town of Počitelj before returning to Dubrovnik.
Optional Tour 2 – Day trip to Montenegro including lunch – visit of Perast and Kotor
Embark on a day trip from Dubrovnik to discover the charms of Montenegro. Relish leisurely hours in the picturesque towns of Kotor & Perast and partake in a scenic ferry voyage across the Boka Kotorska Bay. Setting off from Dubrovnik in the morning, take in the sights of the Old Town and its environs as you traverse through the stunning Župa Dubrovačka and the Konavle region. Upon crossing the Montenegro border, your journey continues along the scenic Montenegro coastline. En route through the Boka Kotorska Bay, make a pause in the enchanting town of Perast. You'll have the option to visit the island of Our Lady of the Rocks. During your drive, your guide will share intriguing details about Montenegro's significant cultural landmarks, as well as the country's rich history and captivating legends. Upon reaching Kotor, revel in free time for self-guided exploration. Kotor is renowned for its maritime heritage, illustrious commercial fleet, and formidable city walls. Lunch in Kotor. Free time after the visit.
Following your morning breakfast, you complete your hotel check-out process. Meet your driver and embark on a tranquil and picturesque journey up the Dalmatian coast towards northern Croatia. En route to Zadar, you make a stop in Split, where you'll be guided on a 2-hour walking tour by a skilled local guide. This immersive tour grants you access to the historic 1,700-year-old Diocletian Palace, allows you to explore the Cathedral of St. Duje, also known as Saint Domnius, and unveils the wonders of the Temple of Jupiter, considered one of the most captivating cultural treasures along the Adriatic shoreline. Your journey through history also includes a visit to the ancient cellars, a glimpse of the Peristyle at the heart of the palace, Roman temples, the renowned Golden Gate, and the monumental statue of Grgur Ninski. Lunch in Split.
Upon concluding the tour, you'll be transferred to Zadar. Upon arrival, you'll complete your hotel check-in, and the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you please. Relax and savor the breathtaking vistas of the Croatian shoreline as you travel from Dubrovnik to Zadar.
Overnight in Zadar
After your morning breakfast, you rendezvous with your guide to commence a 2-hour walking tour through the city of Zadar.
Zadar stands at the core of the Croatian Adriatic, boasting a wealth of tourist attractions. Throughout its history, Zadar served as the residence of the Illyrian Liburni for many centuries and was the capital of Dalmatia for a millennium. On this tour, you'll discover landmarks such as St. Anastasia's Cathedral, the Sea Organ, and the Greeting to the Sun (please note that the tour does not include interior visits to these sites). Following the tour, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure.
Overnight in Zadar
After your morning meal, you wrap up your hotel check-out and rendezvous with your personal chauffeur, who will convey you to Zagreb. On the way, you'll have the opportunity to explore the captivating Plitvice Lakes National Park. These lakes, often referred to as the "Falling Lakes," secured their spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list back in 1979, marking them as one of the earliest natural sites globally to receive this prestigious recognition. This provides an exceptional chance to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the shapes and colors found within Croatia's oldest national park. Your visit encompasses admission tickets and a guided tour within the park. Following your time in the Plitvice Lakes, you'll head to the riverside town of Karlovac and the historic watermill village of Rastoke, granting you a sense of these smaller, ancient communities. Lunch in Plitvice / Slunj area.
You'll then continue your journey to Zagreb and proceed with your hotel check-in. The rest of the evening is yours to relish at your own pace.
Overnight in Zagreb
Following your breakfast, relish a guided tour of Zagreb. Zagreb is a city characterized by verdant parks and exquisite architecture. Throughout the tour, you'll explore the Upper Town, which encompasses the former Gradec and Kaptol, constituting the city's oldest districts that merged historically into a single town that expanded further to the south. Once the tour concludes, you'll make your way back to the hotel, where you'll have the remainder of the evening to enjoy at your own pace.
Overnight in Zagreb
You have a free day in Zagreb to spend as you please. You can explore the city on your own or take part in any of the optional excursions. You could stroll through the historic streets, visit local cafés, shop, or try Croatian specialties. Alternately, pre-book one of the suggested tours, such as Postojna Caves & Ljubljana or Lake Bled & Ljubljana. Whatever you choose, make the most of your free day and enjoy your time in Zagreb!
Overnight in Zagreb
Optional 1 – Full day trip to Slovenia's Postojna Caves & Exploring Ljubljana including lunch
Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore Slovenia's most renowned attractions: Postojna Caves and Ljubljana. Your day begins after breakfast when you meet your guide for a full-day excursion to neighboring Slovenia. Your adventure commences with a picturesque drive from Zagreb, taking you across the border into Slovenia. After a few hours on the road, you'll reach the extraordinary Postojna Caves, a mesmerizing underground labyrinth of tunnels and chambers. You'll be captivated by the exquisite formations and unique subterranean landscapes as you journey deep into the heart of the Earth.
Following your remarkable cave exploration, your journey continues to Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana. There, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's enchanting old town, admire its architectural splendors, and take leisurely strolls along the banks of the Ljubljanica River. You'll have the chance to visit prominent landmarks and fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of this captivating European capital.
Lunch in Ljubljana. Finally, as the day draws to a close, you'll return to Zagreb, carrying with you the cherished memories of an unforgettable day spent discovering the wonders of Postojna Caves and Ljubljana.
Optional 2 – Full day trip to Slovenia – Ljubljana & Lake Bled
Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore Slovenia's most known sites: Lake Bled and Ljubljana. Your day begins after breakfast when you meet your guide for a full-day excursion to neighboring Slovenia. Your adventure commences with a picturesque drive from Zagreb, taking you across the border into Slovenia. After a few hours on the road, you'll reach the extraordinary Lake Bled, one of Slovenia's most iconic and breathtaking destinations. Here, you'll be able to soak in the serene beauty of the lake, pay a visit to the hilltop Bled Castle, and, if time permits, take a traditional pletna boat ride to Bled Island, where a charming church awaits. As the day progresses, you'll make your way to Slovenia's capital, Ljubljana. There, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's enchanting old town, admire its architectural splendors, and take leisurely strolls along the banks of the Ljubljanica River. You'll have the chance to visit prominent landmarks and fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of this captivating European capital.
Lunch in Bled or Ljubljana.
Finally, as the day draws to a close, you'll return to Zagreb, carrying with you the cherished memories of an unforgettable day spent discovering the wonders of Lake Bled and Ljubljana.
Today marks the conclusion of your fantastic journey through Croatia! Following your morning meal, your driver will be ready to greet you in the hotel lobby and transport you to the airport for your return flight home. We extend our best wishes for a safe and pleasant journey, and we look forward to assisting you with your future travel adventures!
Accommodation
Neptun Hotel
Staying at Hotel Royal Neptun in Dubrovnik (Babin Kuk) places you near Poluotok Lapad and a short 10-minute walk from Copacabana Beach. This 4-star hotel is positioned at a distance of 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Lapad Beach and 3 mi (4.8 km) from Dubrovnik Ferry Port.
Unwind at the full-service spa, offering massages, body treatments, and facials. The hotel offers an array of recreational facilities, including 3 outdoor swimming pools, a sauna, and a fitness center. Additionally, enjoy complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (for an additional fee).
Dine at Zoe, one of the hotel's 3 restaurants, or opt for room service (available during specific hours). Snacks are also offered at the coffee shop/cafe. Savor a drink at the beach bar, the poolside bar, or one of the 2 bars/lounges. Start your day with a complimentary buffet breakfast served daily from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
Amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and access to limo/town car service. The hotel provides event facilities with conference spaces and meeting rooms. Guests can utilize a roundtrip airport shuttle (available 24 hours) and a ferry terminal shuttle for an extra charge.
Feel at home in one of the 91 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and LCD televisions. Stay connected with complimentary wired and wireless Internet access, and enjoy entertainment via satellite programming. Bathrooms include showers, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. Each room is equipped with phones, laptop-compatible safes, and desks for convenience.
Miramare Hotel
Choosing to stay at Miramare Hotel Zadar in Zadar places you within a 10-minute walk of Kolovare Beach and City Galleria. This hotel is conveniently positioned 0.7 miles (1.1 km) from Vladimir Nazor Park and 0.8 miles (1.3 km) from Land Gate.
Indulge in the recreational offerings such as a seasonal outdoor pool or relish the view from the terrace.
The hotel's restaurant offers a satisfying dining experience, while the bar/lounge serves your favorite drinks. Guests can start their day with a complimentary buffet breakfast served every day from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM.
The hotel offers various amenities including dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Onsite free self-parking is available for guests.
Settle into one of the 36 air-conditioned rooms at Miramare Hotel Zadar, each equipped with minibars. Stay connected with complimentary wireless internet access. The bathrooms feature showers, hair dryers, and bathrobes for added comfort. Amenities in the rooms include phones, safes, and desks for convenience.
Hotel Dubrovnik
Staying at Hotel Dubrovnik situates you in the center of Zagreb, just steps away from Ilica Street and Ban Jelacic Square. This 4-star hotel is conveniently positioned 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from Zrinjevac and the Archaeological Museum.
Indulge in onsite massages or take pleasure in the fitness center for recreational activities. The hotel also offers additional features such as complimentary wireless internet access, gift shops/newsstands, and a hair salon.
Dine at the Steak House, a restaurant featuring a bar/lounge, or opt for room service (available during specific hours). Guests can start their day with a free buffet breakfast on weekends from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
The hotel's amenities include complimentary wired internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Event facilities at this hotel comprise conference space and meeting rooms. An airport shuttle service is available for a fee (accessible 24 hours), and there's on-site self-parking available for a charge.
Settle into one of the 222 air-conditioned rooms at Hotel Dubrovnik, each equipped with minibars and LCD televisions. Stay connected with complimentary wired and wireless internet access, and enjoy entertainment through digital programming. The private bathrooms have bathtubs or showers and offer complimentary toiletries and bidets. Amenities in the rooms include phones, safes, and desks for convenience.
INCLUSIONS
- International return airfare ex-USA/Canada (Please check with us for pricing from other cities)
- Airport taxes, fuel surcharge, and baggage fees
- 08 Nights’ accommodation on TWN/DBL sharing basis at listed hotels or similar
- Daily buffet breakfast
- 02 lunches
- Guided city tours in Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Zagreb
- Transportation in a Deluxe Tourist Vehicle
- All sightseeing with admissions
- Services of an English-speaking driver & guide
- Applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
- All other meals & other sightseeing or services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, and drivers
- Visa fee & Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as alcohol and other beverages, telephone calls, and laundry
- Any other services or Items not mentioned above are not included
- Hotel tax - EUR 5 - 9 per night per person, payable at the hotel at the time of check-in
Gallery
Planning a trip to Croatia?
Visa requirements:
To enter Croatia, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date at least 3 months beyond the planned departure from the Schengen area.
U.S. or Canadian citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact Croatia’s consulate or embassy for your specific entry requirements.
Ensure you have at least two blank passport pages for entry stamps.
Culture and customs:
Croatia is generally a safe and welcoming country. While dress is casual, it is recommended to dress modestly when visiting religious sites such as churches or monasteries. Public behavior should be respectful, particularly in historic towns and rural areas.
Weather:
Croatia has a Mediterranean climate along the coast and a continental climate inland. Summers (June to September) can be hot and sunny along the Adriatic coast, while winters (December to February) are cooler and wetter. Pack sunscreen, light clothing for the coast, and a jacket or layers for inland regions.
Local laws:
Familiarize yourself with local laws regarding alcohol consumption (legal age is 18), driving regulations, and environmental protection. Drug possession is illegal and strictly penalized.
Language:
Croatian is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants.
Currency:
The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though small cash amounts are useful in markets and rural areas.
Transportation:
Croatia has a well-developed transportation network including buses, trains, ferries, and taxis. Rental cars are common for exploring the Dalmatian coast. Ferries connect many coastal islands.
Electricity:
The standard voltage is 230V, and the power sockets are the European two-pin type (Type C and F).
Time zone:
Croatia is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1) and observes Daylight Saving Time (UTC+2) from late March to late October.
Safety:
Croatia is generally a safe country for travelers. Standard precautions are advised, such as safeguarding valuables, being aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, and following local traffic laws.
Health:
Tap water is safe to drink in most areas. Travel insurance is recommended. Bring any personal medications and a copy of prescriptions.
Public holidays and observances:
Croatia observes several public holidays, including national and religious events. Some attractions and government offices may be closed on these days.