Explore the Hidden Gems of Croatia: 8-Day Itinerary

9:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Highlights of Zagreb, Guided Tour

On this 2.5-hour private tour, you will see the main sights and vibrant everyday life in Zagreb. You will visit the oldest parts of town, hear genuine Zagreb stories and legends, and enjoy a walk through the old town's green promenade. Highlights include Zagreb cathedral, the short funicular connecting the lower and uppers parts of the city, the oldest part of the city called Gradec were the city's parliament and best museums are to be found, the famous pedestrianized Tkalčićeva Street that has one of the most engaging and fun dining areas in Southern Europe and the open-air market of Dolac.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Walking Tour of Split Old Town & Diocletian's Palace

This two-hour guided tour will take you to the Roman emperor Diocletian's 1700-year-old palace which was built as his personal rest home. Walk from the Bronze Gate through the central hall of the ancient cellars is the main communication line between the busy waterfront promenade, the Riva, and the palace's main forecourt, the Peristyle. You'll also stop by the Cathedral of St Duje, one of the most beautiful cultural attractions on the Adriatic coast, the Roman temple of Jupiter (latterly a Christian baptistry), the fabulous Golden Gate, and the medieval Croatian bishop who introduced the Croatian language in religious services.

Early Morning to Afternoon

Excursion to Beautiful Hvar Island

Hvar has a reputation as the Croatian Ibiza, i.e. lots of young people partying as if their lives depended on it, but it's actually much more than that and remains relatively unspoiled and comparatively affordable in relation to the mainland coast. Both of its main towns, Hvar and Star Grad, are lovely medieval towns full of traffic-free alleys surrounded by ancient stone houses; these act as a romantic backdrop to the towns' many cafes from where you can indulge in people-watching and view the fancy yachts filling up the harbor. In the summer, you can take a passenger-only 1-hour catamaran trip directly to Hvar Town. In other months, Hvar is still relatively easy to get to via a 2-hour car ferry to the main island port of Stari Grad. If you do take the ferry, it's still just a short bus or taxi ride to Hvar or Stari Grad - you can even walk to Stari Grad from the ferry port. Keep in mind though that you must be quick off the ferry to catch the bus. If you can afford it, taking a private boat is the ultimate way to experience Hvar, as you can swim, snorkel, and sunbathe along the way. Also keep in mind that while Hvar is happening in the warmer months, it is quite sleepy in the off season. Many restaurants and attractions will be closed, but if you enjoy exploring in peace and quiet, it is the perfect time to visit.

Early Morning to Mid-Day

Excursion to the Krka Waterfalls

While the more famous Plitvice Waterfalls are much larger and get all the press, the Krka waterfalls also pour crystal clear blue water over karst rock formations. And just like Plitvice, they are so beautiful that a National Park was created to protect them. But they also have a couple of key advantages over Plitvice. First of all they are much closer to Split, meaning it is much more manageable to visit them as a day trip. In fact Krka is only an hour from Split, versus a three hour drive to reach Plitvice. Keep in mind though that the waterfalls can only accommodate a limited number of people and the park limits entry. So if you want to be assured of getting in, either get there very early, or book ahead with an organized group. One more thing to remember is that it is not just about swimming - the National Park is also a great place for a hike. Also, don't forget your watershoes if you plan to swim, but please note that you are no longer allowed to swim beneath the main cascading falls.

6:55 AM

Transfer to Ferry Terminal by Taxi or Walking

First keep in mind that the ferry terminal is located only about a 1/2-mile (800m) from the Split Old Town. Also consider that if staying in the pedestrian area of Old Town, a car cannot pick you up directly from the hotel, meaning you will have to walk a short distance with your bags anyway. If this is an issue, be sure to arrange assistance with a private transfer service or with your hotel beforehand. UberX is available in Split if you prefer to take a car. If staying in a hotel, they can also arrange a taxi pick up for you. The price should be about 50-100 HRK depending on your hotel location. For the most convenience, you can arrange a private transfer to the ferry terminal.  Make sure the taxi knows which terminal you are going to: the Krilo (Kapetan Luka) catamaran terminal is opposite the bus station and the car ferry terminal is a bit further to the left. The Jadrolinija catamaran terminal is at the top of the dock area nearest the old town. If taking the Krilo catamaran, the taxi driver should drop you off beside the concrete pier where the catamarans leave from or next to the bus station on the opposite side of the street. You should see one or two catamarans waiting at the end of the pier when you arrive. If you're going to the islands in the off-season, then you'll probably need to go to the car ferry terminal further down the waterfront.

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Guided Walking Tour of Game of Thrones Locations

'Winter is coming' is not a phrase commonly heard in Dubrovnik unless it's on the set of the phenomenally popular television series, Game of Thrones, so take the opportunity to visit several of the locations from the show any time of the year. As soon as you approach the old city you'll immediately begin to recognize some of the sets from various episodes.

To Be Determined

Transfer to Airport by Taxi or Bus

Dubrovnik has one main airport, Dubrovnik Airport, also referred to as Čilipi Airport. The most affordable way to reach Dubrovnik airport is by public bus (15 HRK), however, this will take quite a lot of time. You can still save quite a bit of money in comparison to a taxi by taking the direct Atlas Shuttle bus (40 HRK). The buses pick up near the western entrance to Dubrovnik, Pile Gate, and departs roughly every 30 minutes during the day. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi which will cost roughly 260-400 HRK. UberX is also available, or you can also arrange a private transfer for added convenience. If you are picked up about 2 hours and 45 minutes before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with over two hours to spare, depending on traffic. Keep in mind that if staying in Old Town, the taxi cannot pick you up directly from the hotel, meaning you will have to walk to the Pile Gate with your bags. If this is an issue, be sure to arrange assistance with a private transfer service or with your hotel beforehand.