DAY 1: ARRIVAL TO SPLIT
Welcome to Split, the second largest city in Croatia and the city that has it all: Roman ruins and grand museums alongside fashionable cafes and trendy shops.
Without hiding their pride, the people of Split will tell you that their city is “the most beautiful one in the world and beyond”. Split will surely convince you of this as soon as you discover it! Thanks to the age-old Diocletian Palace and other historic monuments, the city is on UNESCO’s World Heritage list since 1979. Many of the historic buildings are still standing even today. Because of this, a visit to Split is like time travelling into other dimensions.
Overnight in Split.
DAY 2: DISCOVER UNESCO CITIES & ZINFANDEL WINE TASTING
Discover two scenic and historical highlights of the Croatian coast on this half-day private tour with local expert guide. Explore the city of Split and the palace built by Emperor Diocletian in the 3rd century. The beauty of our palace is found in the living breathing museum -as locals still live there. Together with your guide explore this vibrant city and reveal its most significant sites. Take a short drive over to the wonderful islet of Trogir. During our stroll we explore all the historic landmarks of the medieval city. At its core is the grand Cathedral of St. Lawrence. Its portal, a masterpiece by the Dalmatian architect will leave you wonder struck. Along the way, the past centuries come alive with stories of exciting battles, mysterious characters, and the beautiful architecture that flourished under the Venetian rule. Can you imagine a better way to lull away in the afternoon than sipping regional wines while tales of “mysterious wine” that became an All-American favorite tantalize your taste buds? This tour is all about discovering what’s beyond the obvious: smells, colors, flavors, feelings.
Overnight in Split.
DAY 3: SPLIT – HVAR
Embark on a public catamaran/ferry and start ride to Hvar.
The island of Hvar is the queen of the Croatian Dalmatian islands. Its fame goes back to antique times because of its important strategic and nautical position, rich history and culture, and natural landmarks. Thanks to warm winters and pleasant summers, Hvar gets many guests, scientists and travelers coming to its shores who are attracted by its dense Mediterranean flora, rich traditions, beautiful architecture, and lively nightlife.
Overnight in Hvar.
DAY 4: HVAR ISLAND WINE TASTING TOUR
This private half-day wine tour will take you on a journey through centuries-old vineyards on Hvar island. With your expert local guide bringing wines to life and unraveling Hvar’s wine story, we’ll start our journey in Hvar town and drive inland. On the way we’ll pass through the old villages of Brusje and Velo Grablje and past many lavender fields. We’ll stop at Ager (Hora), a UNESCO-protected agricultural area dating back to Greek times, a masterpiece which has remained almost intact for 2400 years. Next stop is Jelsa, where one specially chosen winery is waiting for you. We’re taking you back to the roots, to pure tradition: the Duboković winery. Award-winning red wines, the renowned Croatian wine Medvid, local cheese, homemade bread. You’ll enjoy all of this in an intimate candlelit cellar in the winemakers’ family house. Pure wine heaven! You’ll also be able to enjoy the family’s own flavored olive oils. Try basil or sage flavored olive oil and you may decide to move to Hvar permanently. After the wine tasting, we’ll head to the old, abandoned village of Malo Grablje for a fabulous traditional lunch.
Overnight in Hvar.
DAY 5: VIS ISLAND MILITARY TOUR
Embark on a private boat and start ride to Vis island.
After 1945, Vis island was a major military base for the Yugoslav army. There are over 30 military sites around the island. Find out why Vis was called the “key of the Adriatic” on a private jeep safari tour. The tour of the island begins with a few historical facts from ancient times until the present. After departing from Vis town, we’ll take a tour of Tito’s cave, the island’s highest peak at Hum (587m), the former air force airport and the cricket field in Pliskopoje, as wekk as the George III fort above Vis Town, the former military base of Parja, and the submarine tunnel “Jastog” (Lobster). When we return to Vis town you’ll see the remains of a Greek cemetery and Roman bath house.
After tour and some free time for an optional lunch you will depart back to Hvar.
Overnight in Hvar.
DAY 6: HVAR – DUBROVNIK
Embark on a public catamaran/ferry and start ride to Dubrovnik.
Dubrovnik lies in the extreme south of Croatia, basking in glorious Mediterranean sunshine for much of the year. A fairytale city of beautiful Baroque, Gothic and Renaissance churches, aristocratic palaces, red-roofed townhouses, magnificent monasteries and fascinating history. Dubrovnik’s old town is known as one of the world’s finest and most perfectly preserved medieval cities. One of the best views in the world is to be had from its monumental City Walls – be prepared to be amazed! Wander the bustling boutiques, markets and bars, savor freshly-caught seafood while gazing out to sea at sunset; walk along the iconic walls, or take a cable car up to Mount Srđ for the most spectacular views in all of Dubrovnik. Today a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Old Town and its towering walls rise above a 13th-century main street that literally sparkles in the sun.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
DAY 7: DUBROVNIK HIGHLIGHTS EXPLORER
Explore the wonders of Dubrovnik’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important living historical monuments in this part of Europe. The private sightseeing covers the emblematic landmarks and major sights, giving a good overview of Dubrovnik for first time visitors. The top attractions you’ll get to explore: The Old City Walls, Dubrovnik Cathedral and Treasury, The City Gates, Loggia Square, Fort Lovrijenac, Large Fountain of Onofrio and St. Saviour Church, Minceta Tower, Franciscan Church and Monastery, The Rector’s Palace and many more. Today Dubrovnik is the proudest feather in Croatia’s tourist cap, an elite destination and one of the most beautiful towns in the Mediterranean. Dubrovnik used to be an independent republic, surviving mostly on trade. The whole city is alive with tourists and locals who wander the centuries-old streets admiring the architecture. Visit the attractions up-close and take in the atmosphere, while your expert local guide provides you with all the information and stories about the city.
Overnight in Dubrovnik.
DAY 8: DEPARTURE
Private transfer to the airport to catch your flight. Bon voyage!