11 Day Croatia & Its Islands

Wander along medieval walls, marvel at enchanting waterfalls, and relax on sunny islands. From Dubrovnik to Zagreb, set out to experience the best of Croatia and the Adriatic Coast. Welcome to Dubrovnik, the “Pearl of the Adriatic.” This afternoon you’ll board a private 4-star ship and revel in all of the luxuries of a small cruise ship. Relax onboard before experiencing a Captain’s welcome dinner. Enjoy your meal accompanied by live Klapa music, the traditional Croatian style of singing.

This morning, take in the medieval stone walls, iconic Baroque rooftops, and winding cobblestone streets of Dubrovnik. Embrace the unspeakable feeling that you’ve stepped into another time as you explore the Old City with a local guide. With free time in the afternoon, perhaps you’ll visit the famous City Walls or ride a cable car to the top of the Mount Srd for awe-inspiring views of Dubrovnik. Then, your journey continues to Slano, a port city just outside of Dubrovnik. Enjoy an evening of leisure or consider an optional excursion to Ston, a nearby fortified city known for its decadent oysters and seafood.

This morning, arrive in Mljet National Park. Stroll around the Large and Small lakes before exploring the Islet of St. Mary, home to a Benedictine Monastery from the 12th century. Don’t miss out on a chance to take a swim in the strikingly blue waters. Then, it’s on to Korcula, debated home to one of the world’s most famous explorers: Marco Polo. Decide for yourself if he was born in Korcula or Venice as you tour his alleged home and take in the fantastic sea views from its tower. Join a local guide and make your way along the narrow stone streets while you wander among the medieval buildings and vibrant houses in the town known as “Little Dubrovnik.” Enjoy the evening at leisure to discover the charms of this age-old city.

Cruise on to Vis, a small island practically untouched by tourism and overflowing with Renaissance architecture and beautiful beaches. With free time this afternoon, relax onboard the ship or choose to go on an optional tour of the island ending with a farm-to-table dinner.

Embark on a morning cruise to the island of Biševo. This island is home to the Blue Cave,* a stunning grotto with a luminous blue glow. Return to the ship and cruise to the sunny island of Hvar. Upon arrival in Hvar, get acquainted with the area when a local guide introduces you to the history, culture, and lifestyle of the city. Discover how lavender was traditionally grown in the region for centuries and take a closer look at the custom.

Start your day in the town of Bol, located on the picturesque island of Brac. With free time this morning, perhaps you’ll choose to swim along the shore of the “Golden Cape,” known to be one of the most popular beaches in Croatia. Return to the ship for lunch, then it’s off to Trogir, a coastal gem renowned for its picturesque Venetian architecture. Admire the striking stone houses and towering cathedral as you tour the city with a guide.

Discover Split, one of the oldest cities in this historic region. In this bustling port, explore Diocletian’s Palace, the city’s famous ancient fortress. One of Croatia’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, Emperor Diocletian chose the palace to be his retirement home because of the incomparable beauty of Split. A guided tour takes you through the mysterious passageways and into the lower levels of this massive structure.

Disembark your ship in Split where it’s your choice! Visit the oldest museum institution in Croatia, Split’s Archaeological Museum, founded in 1820; marvel at a diverse range of artifacts from the Paleolithic to the Iron Age -OR- admire the works of 20th-century sculptor, Ivan Meštrovic during a guided tour. The Meštrovic Gallery features an array of the artist’s creations including sculptures, drawings, furniture and architecture. The museum itself is considered an art monument. Enjoy free time in the city for lunch before you journey to Šibenik. Tonight, embrace the culture of Croatia and become captivated by authentic traditional entertainment with dinner.

Set off on a walking tour through the ancient alleyways and roads of Šibenik, where you’ll get a chance to see the Cathedral of St. James, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, venture to the breathtaking Krka National Park, where waterfalls tumble through dramatic gorges. Meander along the trails that surround the falls before embarking on a boat ride that takes you along the river to Skradin.*

This morning, travel to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia! Step right into the history and culture of everyday life as you tour the city with a local guide. Become acquainted with the city as you see the main sights of the capital, including the Croatian National Theater and Opera House, the Croatian Parliament building, the illustrious Zagreb Cathedral, and the legendary Stone Gate. Tonight, raise a glass and say živjeli (“to life”) as you toast your Croatian journey over Istrian cuisine.

Say goodbye to Croatia as your tour of the Adriatic Coast comes to a close today.