Ultimate Croatia Family Vacation

Your ultimate family vacation through Croatia begins in the exciting capital of Zagreb which offers a mix of modern and historic with an intriguing Austro-Hungarian heritage, classicist and secessionist facades and landmark buildings. It’s jam-packed with interesting museums and enticing art galleries as well as a wide range of restaurants, bars and cafes. Upon your arrival to Zagreb’s airport, you’ll be welcomed by private transfer to your hotel with the rest of the day to enjoy resting or exploring at your leisure.

• Preferred Hotel Hotel Esplanade, Zagreb

Join our local guide this morning for a sightseeing tour that reveals the highlights of Zagreb, providing a fascinating look at its cultural and history, including its impressive blend of classical Viennese secessionist architecture and Austro-Hungarian heritage. See the famously colorful roof of St. Mark’s Church, Zagreb Cathedral with its twin spires standing out on the skyline, the Croatian National Theater, the House of Parliament, and Dolac Market. In between you’ll stop to try strukli, a traditional Croatian specialty, at “La Struk.”

• Preferred Hotel Hotel Esplanade, Zagreb

No family vacation in Croatia would be complete without a visit to the stunning UNESCO-protected Plitvice Lakes National Park. As one of the most popular attractions in the country, the beauty spot boasts 16 inter-linked terraced lakes and breathtaking waterfalls. Navigate your way around the park via the wooden pathways and bridges that allow you to get up close to the refreshing cascades. Take a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear lakes and a panoramic train journey through the natural landscape. Look out for the gorgeous flora and indigenous fauna along the way and enjoy the unlimited first-class photo opportunities.

• Preferred Hotel Cornaro Hotel, Split

Start your day with a heart-pounding zip-line ride in Omis, viewing the Cetina River canyon from nearly 500 feet above.

Strap on your safety helmet and buckle up your harness to reach speeds of 40 miles per hour as you make your descent over the spectacular scenery. After returning to Split, explore the walled Old Town with its 4^th-century Diocletian’s Palace on your own. With many well-preserved Roman-era buildings converted into cafes and restaurants, you’ll find a perfect spot for dinner here too.

• Preferred Hotel Cornaro Hotel, Split

Head outside of the city for another exciting adventure, an exhilarating day of whitewater rafting on the Cetina River. No experience is necessary with professionals at your side to teach you what you need to know for a safe and enjoyable ride in the scenic river canyon. Take in the natural beauty of the landscape from the rushing emerald waters in an activity that the entire family will love. An optional BBQ lunch can be enjoyed along the banks of the river afterward.

• Preferred Hotel Cornaro Hotel, Split

This morning you’ll travel by catamaran to the “island of sunshine” as the locals refer to Hvar as it’s the country’s sunniest and most popular with a fabulous mix of beautiful beaches, aromatic lavender fields, historic landmarks, world-class restaurants and lively nightlife. Upon your arrival, get settled into your hotel and then climb to the top of Fortica Fortress for a view over the town, harbor, and nearby islands. Afterwards, sample the tasty cuisine in one of the local eateries.

• Preferred Hotel Adriana Hotel, Hvar

A speedboat tour brings you to the Pakleni Islands, just off Hvar’s southwest coast where you’ll discover secluded, uncrowded beaches in hidden coves, ideal for swimming in the crystal-clear turquoise water. Get your cameras ready to capture Hvar as the island fades away along with the breathtaking surrounding scenery. Relax while soaking up the Mediterranean sun as your skipper searches for the most idyllic cove to stop so that you can leap into the enticing sea for a swim before returning to Hvar.

• Preferred Hotel Adriana Hotel, Hvar

There’s so much to do on Hvar, today you can enjoy it at your own pace. You might choose to enjoy active pursuits like paddling, sailing or swimming, or simply relax on one of the many gorgeous beaches. Or, choose an optional small group Jeep safari tour in a Land Rover. Roll over rough terrain on the adrenaline pumping excursion to explore remote, deserted villages and old, inhabited settlements that are scattered across vineyard, olive grove and lavender field covered landscapes.

• Preferred Hotel Adriana Hotel, Hvar

Last but definitely not least is Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” This morning you’ll transfer to this UNESCO-listed city that’s often named among the world’s most beautiful. Dubrovnik to enjoy your final three nights. Upon your arrival, you’ll have the rest of the day at your leisure. You’ll find beaches nearby in either direction, or you might just relax around the hotel pool. If you want to preview the Old City, it’s just a few miles away, easily reached by Uber.

• Preferred Hotel Hotel More, Dubrovnik

Start your day with a closeup look of Dubrovnik’s walled Old City on an inspiring guided tour. Stroll the marble streets with their awe-inspiring medieval architecture while keeping an eye out for familiar places showcased in the hit series “Game of Thrones.” There are many iconic filming sites from the show that fans will recognize. After touring, take a walk atop the 1.2-mile-long massive stone walls, originally built to defend Dubrovnik from invaders, now enticing visitors to climb for extraordinary views.

• Preferred Hotel Hotel More, Dubrovnik

On your final full day, enjoy a day of leisure, perhaps paddling in a sea kayak over to Lokrum Island which brings a great view of the city walls. Once there you can swim off the shores of this lush nature reserve, picnic and watch the colorful peacocks that roam around. Or opt for a three-hour off-road buggy tour which starts with a bird’s-eye view from the top of Mount Srd before hopping in for a ride through forests and charming villages.

• Preferred Hotel Hotel More, Dubrovnik

While it’s always difficult to say goodbye, your ultimate family vacation comes to an end after enjoying breakfast this morning. Of course, if you’d like to extend your time here or explore other destinations, our travel experts can create a bespoke addition to your itinerary. Otherwise, after checking out of your hotel, you’ll be met by private transfer for the journey to Dubrovnik’s airport to catch your flight home – we wish you a safe journey and hope to see you again!