Gems of Croatia and the Dalmatian Coast: A Tailor-Made Journey

Arrive in Split, where you’ll be welcomed at the airport by your private driver and escorted to your hotel in the city. You’ll have some time to settle in before meeting your private guide for an afternoon walking tour of Diocletian’s Palace. Built as a retreat for the Roman emperor and finished in 305 A.D., this ancient city of garrisons, residences, and temples—including one of the world’s oldest continuously used synagogues—has been meticulously restored and repurposed for modern use. Learn the fascinating history of the city and discover the secrets of its palace as you explore its grand courtyards and marble streets.

Spend the morning in the historic island-city of Trogir, a stunning World Heritage site surrounded by medieval walls. In the company of your private guide, climb to the ramparts of Kamerlengo Fortress for spectacular views, and venture down the lanes of the old city. Continue to the 14th-century city of Šibenik to see the Cathedral of Saint James, a masterpiece of Dalmatian architecture built from local stone. Then drive to Krka National Park, where you’ll have a chance to walk scenic trails to viewpoints overlooking the park’s many waterfalls and natural pools. Return to Split in the late afternoon. (B)

After checking out of your hotel, meet your private driver and guide to take the ferry to the island of Hvar. Arrive in Stari Grad, originally founded by the ancient Greeks, and enjoy a stroll along its narrow lanes. Then drive through the island’s famously picturesque countryside, passing olive groves, vineyards, and lavender fields. Stop at one of Hvar's best wineries for a tasting of local wines. End the day in elegant Hvar Town, where your hotel is located within the well-preserved historic core. (B)

Enjoy a full day at leisure to discover Hvar. You might rent a local boat to visit the islands of Biševo or Vis and explore the secluded coves along the southern shore. Another option is a guided boat tour of the Blue and Green Caves, where the interplay of light, rock, and water result in ethereal hues.  Enjoy a private cooking class today allowing you to learn about traditional Hvar life and cooking techniques. You could find an inviting beach or relax by your hotel pool. Or simply soak up the ambiance of this effervescent town from a café on one of its squares. (B)

In the morning, join your private guide for a kayaking excursion to the nearby Pakleni Islands. As you paddle along the beautiful coast, stop for a hike through pine forests, go for a swim in a sheltered cove, and enjoy a picnic on a pebble beach. Upon your return to Hvar Town this afternoon, you’ll have time to explore some of Hvar’s 16th-century palaces or its Spanish fortress. (B)

A morning ferry brings you to the island of Korčula. Make sure you have a good viewpoint as you approach: the 13th and 14th-century walls and towers are particularly impressive when first seen from the water. After checking into your hotel, you’ll meet your private guide for a walking tour of the walled city often referred to as ‘Little Dubrovnik’ thanks to its medieval walls, imposing churches, and Venetian palaces. (B)

Return to the mainland and set off on a scenic drive through the Pelješac Peninsula, one of the country’s top wine regions. You’ll sample vintages at two local wineries before a visit to an oyster farm in Ston for a tasting of their celebrated shellfish. From here, you’ll follow the stunning coast south to Dubrovnik and settle into your hotel. (B,L)

Venture into the old town of Dubrovnik with your private guide, exploring highlights such as the city walls and the Church of Saint Blaise as well as lesser-known attractions that offer a deeper insight into the history of the city. Then ride the cable car to the top of Mount Srđ for expansive views of the city, the coast, and the islands that dot the Adriatic. (B)

Your last full day in Croatia will be yours to enjoy as you please. Perhaps head for the nearby island of Lokrum to see the Royal Fort and visit the Benedictine monastery and its botanical gardens. Alternatively, you could take a swim in crystalline waters right from the city walls, or relax on the popular Sveti Jakov Beach. We can help with planning to make this a memorable day. (B)

Your private driver will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Dubrovnik airport in time for your departing flight. (B)