Croatia Luxury Island Hopping

Your luxury island-hopping trip begins in Split, founded when Roman Emperor Diocletian decided to build his retirement residence here over 1,700 years ago. Upon arrival at Split International Airport, our private driver will transfer you to your hotel in the Old Town. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to rest after a long journey, explore, or do a little of both. Stroll the seaside Riva promenade lined with restaurants, wine, and coffee bars, or climb Marjan Hill for a stunning view over the city, harbor, and beyond.

Today, join your guide for a private tour through the historic center, including Diocletian’s Palace, built in the 4th century as the palatial retirement residence for Emperor Diocletian. Stroll the cobbled streets and alleyways filled with medieval architecture, discovering the four palace gates and landmarks like St. Domnius Cathedral. Next head to Trogir with its early 15^th century Kamerlengo Castle and 13^th century Cathedral of St. Lawrence, one of the finest examples of Gothic and Renaissance architecture in Croatia. Afterward, enjoy the afternoon to yourself.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Split before we transfer you to Hvar Island, known for its lavender fields, vineyards, and a yacht-filled harbor. The island is home to gorgeous beaches where you can swim in enticing crystal-clear blue waters. Upon your arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy exploring on your own – we suggest taking a walk up to the  Fortica Fortress which offers simply breathtaking views over the town and the glistening Pakleni islands.

Today’s tour around Hvar Island explores some of its most charming villages and countryside, famous for its fields of lavender and vineyards. Visit Stari Grad, Croatia’s oldest town, settled in the 4th century BC, and its magnificent fortress. We’ll explore the small town of Vrbovska, known as “Little Venice,” connected by many stone bridges that cross its narrow, winding canal. On the return, you’ll see several other picturesque villages before the finale, an authentic Dalmatian meal at a konoba set in an olive grove.

Today is free to relax and explore at your own leisure.

Optional Tour: Pakleni Islands & Blue Cave
Embark on a speedboat tour to cruise around the Pakleni Islands this morning, spending the day winding through the labyrinth of green isles, stopping to swim or snorkel in secluded aquamarine bays. You will also get a chance to go inside the enchanting Blue Cave near Vis and visit Stiniva Cove, one of the most secluded beaches in the world. Finish the day with time for lunch on beautiful Palmizana Island.

Saying farewell to Hvar, cruise over to Korcula, the alleged birthplace of international explorer Marco Polo with its Old Town often referred to as a mini-Dubrovnik, complete with medieval walls, ramparts, and towers. You’ll meet your local guide near the gate for a tour to explore the cobbled streets that are laid out in a fishbone shape to keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in the summer. Listen to the history behind it as you marvel at the magnificent architecture and enjoy a stroll on the promenade that follows the outer walls, bringing picturesque views of the sea and vineyards on the Peljesac Peninsula.

Today is free to relax and explore at your own leisure.

Optional Tour: Food & Wine Tour
Today you will get an opportunity to see more of this beautiful island as our local foodie guide takes you to visit the Lumbarda region of the island. Here you will get to sample local Grk and Plavac Mali wine which is produced on the island. You will also visit a local honey producer to sample their varieties of honey. We end the day with a visit to a local family who produces their own olive oils, preserves, and Rajika (Croatian brandy) accompanied by a walk through their panoramic fields which offer breathtaking views.

After breakfast our private driver will drive you to medieval Dubrovnik, stopping first at the fishing village of Ston to visit an oyster farm. Enjoy a tasting of fresh mussels and oysters, known as some of the world’s best due to the high mineral and salt content in the bay. Continuing to the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” you will arrive shortly after lunch, in time to check in and enjoy a refreshing drink on your hotel balcony overlooking the sea. This evening we recommend an early dinner in Dubrovnik and enjoy soaking up the evening atmosphere.

This morning cruise over to Dubrovnik to spend your final three nights. The “Pearl of the Adriatic,” its historic center is one of the most breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Sites, internationally famous after being featured in the hit series “Game of Thrones.” Take a stroll along the marble-paved streets, including the Stradun, the Old Town’s longest and widest, to gaze up at the opulent palaces, elegant churches, numerous medieval landmarks, and ancient defensive walls. After taking in the sights, you’ll ride the cable car to the top of Mount Srd for a stunning panoramic view.

Enjoy your last full day in Croatia learning to rustle up tasty and authentic Croatian food in our home-hosted cooking class in the picturesque Konavle Valley. Your warm and welcoming hosts trace their family heritage back over 500 years. Guided by the matriarch of the family, you will prepare the ingredients to create some of the classic and most popular Konavle region dishes. Meats are cooked under a baking lid bell or skewered on laurel sticks. You will learn how to cook traditionally without electricity or kitchen gadgets. Enjoy a celebratory feast and sample the delicious cuisine and local wine.