Best of Croatia - 9 Days
9 Days
Dubrovnik
Split
- Game of Thrones Walking Tour through Dubrovnik’s iconic filming locations
- Welcome Dinner with fellow travelers in the Old Town
- Elaphite Islands Day Cruise – visit Koločep, Šipan & Lopud with beach time
- Optional Day Trip to Montenegro – explore Kotor and the Bay of Kotor
- Sailing Adventure to Pakleni Islands & Red Rocks with snorkeling and swim stops
- Walking Tour of Split including Diocletian’s Palace and the Old Town
- Blue Cave & Five Islands Speedboat Tour with stops at Stiniva Beach, Vis, and more
- Farewell evening in Split with optional dinner and shopping
Looking to travel to Croatia? This 9-day guided journey offers one of the best Croatia vacation packages for those seeking a blend of culture, relaxation, and adventure. From the ancient walls of Dubrovnik to the island beauty of Hvar and the historic wonders of Split, you’ll experience Croatia’s most iconic destinations in style. With private tours, premium accommodations, and unforgettable excursions—including island cruises and walking tours—this immersive itinerary is the perfect way to explore the Adriatic coast.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dubrovnik
Upon arrival at Dubrovnik Airport, you will be greeted by our staff and transferred to your hotel for check-in, which begins at 2:00 PM. Guests arriving early may opt to join a 2-hour Game of Thrones walking tour at 4:00 PM, where you’ll uncover the secrets behind HBO’s iconic series, visiting major filming locations and reliving memorable scenes. In the evening, everyone will gather for a Welcome Dinner at 7:30 PM, a great opportunity to meet your fellow travelers and begin the journey together. You will spend the night in Dubrovnik.
Day 2: Elaphite Islands Day Cruise with Lunch
Following breakfast, embark on a day cruise to the stunning Elaphite Islands, once the favored summer retreat of the Republic of Ragusa’s nobility. Explore the three largest islands—Koločep, Šipan, and Lopud—where you’ll have time to swim or simply relax on the sandy shores of Lopud Island. After a full day at sea, the evening is yours to enjoy dinner at your leisure. Overnight stay will be in Dubrovnik.
Day 3: Free Day in Dubrovnik
After breakfast, you have the choice of venturing on an optional day trip to Montenegro—a nearby Balkan gem with dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval villages, and the scenic Adriatic coastline—or spending a free day exploring the enchanting streets of Dubrovnik at your own pace. Montenegro offers the chance to see the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, fortified coastal towns like Herceg Novi, and the awe-inspiring Durmitor National Park, known for its rugged peaks and deep river canyons.
Day 4: Dubrovnik to Hvar: Beach Resort Arrival
Start the day with an early breakfast or takeaway box before checking out of the hotel. You’ll then board a morning ferry for a 3-hour ride to Hvar. Upon arrival, transfer to a luxurious beach resort on the Adriatic Sea. The rest of the day is reserved for relaxation—unwind by the beach, explore the resort amenities, and soak in the island charm. Enjoy an overnight stay in Hvar.
Day 5: Sailing Adventure on the Adriatic Sea
After breakfast, head to Hvar harbor where a 36-foot sailboat awaits. Set sail for a scenic cruise around the Pakleni Islands, taking in spectacular views and enjoying stops for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. You'll witness the dramatic Red Rocks formation and anchor at a quiet bay for lunch and cocktails at a traditional seaside restaurant (meal at your own expense). Dinner is on your own this evening, followed by another restful night in Hvar.
Day 6: Free Day in Hvar
Today is all about unwinding. After breakfast, enjoy a completely free day to indulge in the luxurious offerings of the Amfora Grand Beach Resort. Lounge on the beach, dive into the crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic, or pamper yourself with spa services. Dinner is on your own, and you’ll spend another night in the peaceful haven of Hvar.
Day 7: Hvar to Split: Historic Walking Tour
Following breakfast, check out and take a one-hour ferry ride to Split. After hotel check-in, dive into the history of this vibrant city with a guided walking tour. Begin at Diocletian’s Palace, an architectural marvel built for a Roman emperor in 305 CE, then see the Cathedral of Saint Domnius and its 12th-century bell tower. Stroll through the Peristyle courtyard, admire the statue of Gregory of Nin, and enjoy views of the Adriatic from the Riva promenade. The tour also includes a visit to People's Square, home to the Old Town Hall and City Clock. Overnight stay in Split.
Day 8: Blue Cave and Five Islands Boat Tour
Set off on a thrilling full-day speedboat excursion that covers five islands and seven locations. Start with a visit to the mesmerizing Blue Cave, followed by a stop in Komiža on Vis Island, a filming site for Mamma Mia 2. Continue to the secluded Stiniva Beach—voted the best beach in Europe—before heading to the Blue Lagoon on Ravnik Island for more swimming and relaxation. With plenty of photo opportunities and tranquil island time, this day promises to be a highlight of the trip.
Day 9: Depart Croatia
After breakfast, enjoy some final free time in Split before transferring to the airport. Transfers will be arranged to ensure you arrive at the airport three hours before your flight, concluding your unforgettable Adriatic adventure.
Includes
- 8 nights hotel accommodations
- Private tours as listed in the itinerary
- Professional drivers throughout the trip
- English-speaking tour guide
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Welcome Dinner (Day 1)
- Farewell Dinner (final night)
Excludes
- International airfare to and from Croatia
- Lunches and dinners not specified as included
- Personal expenses (e.g., shopping, laundry, etc.)
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, or hotel staff
Booking
Many US airline and carriers and international carriers service the international airports in Dubrovnik (Airport Code DBV) and Split (Airport Code SPU).
Your flight to Dubrovnik should arrive on the start dates listed. U.S. flights would originate one day prior. Your return flight will depart from Split (SPU) on end date listed.