Croatia Lakes & Cities Vacation

Your adventure through Croatia kicks off in the capital city of Zagreb, which offers a mix of modern and medieval, including Austro-Hungarian architecture reminiscent of Vienna and Budapest. Filled with world-class museums, galleries, and hip cafes, it’s a hub of culture. You’ll be met by your private driver at Zageb’s airport for transfer to your hotel, with the afternoon enjoyed at your leisure to relax or explore. Perhaps find a spot at an outdoor café to unwind with a drink while people watching.

Meet your guide for a private city tour that will uncover the highlights of Zagreb and its cobbled streets that will reveal some of its most impressive landmarks like the colorful roof of St. Mark’s Church, Zagreb Cathedral with its twin spires that soar above the skyline, Dolac Market, the Croatian National Theater and more. Stop to sample Croatia’s traditional specialty, strukili at “La Struk,” and hop on the funicular, the world’s shortest cable car ride and a monument of culture.

Moving on from Zagreb, your private driver will transfer you to Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fantasy come to life, best known for its 100 waterfalls and 16 interconnected lakes in various shades of emerald and turquoise. Take a self-guided tour starting with a ride on an electric boat that will bring you to scenic paths where you’ll be able to view the indigenous fauna and flora along with the stunning lakes and cascades.

It’s time to head to the coastal city of Split next, famous for its 4^th-century Roman emperor Diocletian’s Palace. But first you’ll stop to tour Krka National Park, including an opportunity to swim under Skradinski Buk, made up of 17 different waterfalls. After checking into your hotel in Split, enjoy relaxing at one of the cafes while people watching or climb to the top of the St. Domnius bell tower for a panoramic view of the city, sea and nearby islands.

Embark on a thrilling half-day excursion that includes white-water rafting in the Cetina River canyon. You’ll enjoy the rush and the breathtaking scenery on a three-person raft, paddling through the crystal-clear emerald water, navigating both calm and more powerful rapids. As you make your way to the Karst gorge, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent natural beauty along the riverbanks and beyond, paired with Mother Nature’s soundtrack, the rushing water. An optional barbecue lunch along the shore is possible too.

After an early breakfast hop onto a speedboat for a tour of the Blue Cave, Hvar and Vis islands. Start by witnessing the remarkable phenomenon that occurs in the cave, illuminating the interior in a surreal blue glow and then cruise over to nearby Vis to enjoy swimming off the shores of one of the world’s most beautiful beaches at Stiniva Cove. After reaching Hvar you’ll have a couple of hours to explore the historic Old Town before we make our return to Split.

Private transfer brings you to your final destination, the UNESCO-listed “Pearl of the Adriatic.” You’ve seen the photographs, but nothing can quite prepare you for your first look at its massive 16^th-century stone walls, soaring above the brilliant blue of the Adriatic. After getting settled into your accommodation, you’ll have the remainder of the day at your leisure to enjoy the hotel’s facilities, perhaps relaxing at the pool or taking a short walk to one of the beaches nearby.

You’ll get to know the heart of Dubrovnik and its medieval walled center on a private half-day tour. Your local guide will reveal fascinating tidbits about its history and destruction during the Homeland War. It’s been impressively rebuilt to its former glory, something you’ll witness as soon as you step through the Pile City Gate. While walking the marble streets, marvel at landmarks like the gothic-renaissance Rector’s Palace, the Franciscan Monastery which is home to an over 700-year-old still operating pharmacy, and much more.

With so much to discover in Dubrovnik, you’ll have a full day to enjoy it on your own, perhaps a walk atop the 1.2 miles of stone walls, taking in the museums, browsing the shops and sampling the delicious its. This is the perfect time for some last-minute souvenir shopping. Another option is to visit nearby Lokrum Island by kayak or boat. It’s a lush reserve with beautiful beaches for swimming and you’ll get a great view of the city’s medieval walls too.

Your 9-night adventure comes to an end after enjoying breakfast this morning. You’ll be met by your private driver for your transfer to Dubrovnik’s airport to catch your flight home, or if you’ve decided to extend your time here, your onward local hotel. If you’d like to continue your travels to explore neighboring countries like Montenegro or Slovenia, or head elsewhere, our expert staff can create a a bespoke addition to your itinerary.