From Split to Dubrovnik
The lowdown
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What:
A two-week trip exploring southern Croatia, its cities and islands, linked by ferries and including private guiding and characterful hotel stays.
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Need to Know:
As part of our holiday planning, we will book your ferry tickets in advance alongside any airport and hotel transfers to ensure your trip goes smoothly and you can sit back and simply enjoy your island-hopping adventure.
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When To Go:
Sadly, Dubrovnik gets uncomfortably busy in high summer, with cruise ships also adding to the crowds. To get the best out of southern Croatia we recommend visiting in spring and early summer; September is also still warm with fewer crowds.
Highlights
- Enjoy a meticulously put together island-hopping trip including pre-booked transfers and ferry tickets
- Explore Croatia’s cultural cities as well as experience island life on this hybrid trip on land and sea
- Discover Split’s remarkable diversity of architecture on a guided tour
- Get to know Croatia’s islands including gorgeous Hvar and Korčula
- Spend time in Dubrovnik, enjoying exclusive foodie experiences
DAY 1 - 2
SPLIT
Be welcomed to the ancient, gold-tinged city of Split, set alongside the iridescent blues of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast.
Wandering around its cobbled streets polished smooth from centuries of passage, wander the shops and enjoy boats coming and going from the harbour. A private guide really brings Split to life and you’ll discover Diocletian’s Palace and the remarkable diversity of Roman, Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance architecture.
"Atmospheric Split is the perfect size for wandering, and the harbourfront is ideal for people-watching accompanied by a cold drink."
STAY: BRIIG HOTEL
In contrast to your historic, atmospheric surroundings, cuboid-shaped Briig is a modern hotel, located in central Split but only steps away from the lovely sands of Bačvice beach. With a rooftop pool, large airy bedrooms swathed in timbers and lovely sea views, Briig is the perfect place to relax after a day’s sightseeing.
DAY 3 - 6
HVAR
Jump aboard a ferry or catamaran heading to Hvar and enjoy the breezy, wind in your hair freedom of setting off for new shores. On arriving in Hvar, soak up its cosmopolitan ambience and wealth of culture, as well as scented lavender fields and rolling vineyards further inland from its picturesque harbour. Uncover a 17th century theatre, a cathedral, a hilltop Venetian fortress, Benedictine monasteries and gleaming piazzas by foot on a guided walking tour. With a UNESCO recognised culinary tradition, take a cookery class and create time-honoured recipes to be savoured with local Croatian wine, the famed Medvid.
"On Hvar you can enjoy its two sides - cosmopolitan restaurants and busy bars paired with peaceful countryside and tranquil beaches."
STAY: MASLINA RESORT
Set among shady olive groves and aromatic pine trees, Maslina Resort is a stylish retreat just a short stroll from the beach. With a swimming pool, spa, wine club and library you can effortlessly spend days at ease. The spacious suites have a chic and simple aesthetic, and the gorgeous rooftop gardens and refreshing plunge pools sit perfectly against breath-taking Adriatic Sea views.
DAY 7 - 9
KORCULA
Take to the seas again to reach the island of Korčula aboard a ferry, taking around an hour between the two islands, giving you just enough time to absorb the panoramic Adriatic Sea views. Admire the ancient drawbridge at the entrance to Korčula Town – perhaps the first indication that medieval beauty awaits. The Venetian walled city is perfect for strolling cobbled alleys, uncovering the island’s peaceful, authentic feel while admiring 15th century towers and the splendid St Mark’s cathedral. Elsewhere on the island, you’ll find dense pine forests, lush vineyards and olive groves which run down to the coast revealing a mix of pebble and sandy beaches.
"Korčula is where you're most likely to feel that island essence. Surrounded by aquamarine water that meets pebbly beaches, it's easy to relax on Korčula."
STAY: LESIC DIMITRI PALACE
Hidden behind the historic fortified walls of Korčula’s old town are six apartments, each with their own private entrance. Created from an original 18th century Bishop’s Palace, you can enjoy the best of both worlds here with a private setting alongside hotel-like offerings including mini-bars, spa treatments and a concierge to organise wine-tasting and biking and hiking around the island.
DAY 10 - 12
DUBROVNIK
The last stop on your Croatian island-hopping adventure is the jewel of the Adriatic coastline: Dubrovnik, where its ancient walls greet you on arrival as you sail in by ferry. Behind the imposing fortification, you’ll find a 13th century city full of the restaurants serving Dalmatian cuisine against a backdrop of astonishing sea views.
With a private guide, explore mysterious caves on a kayak tour, including Lokrum Island known as the ‘Island of Love’. Paddle around to a hidden beach to snorkel in crystal-clear waters and back on land, visit a family-owned winery to sample Peljesac reds.
"Honey-coloured Dubrovnik will wow you with its beauty and you'll also eat and drink well from fine dining to tiny holes in the wall that serve as little bars within the city's ramparts."
STAY: VILLA DUBROVNIK
Set outside Dubrovnik’s ramparts, Villa Dubrovnik is a contemporary hotel built along the rocky coastline. With a modern presence, not only does it have uninterrupted access to the crystal-clear sea, but also magnificent views onto Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Expect exceptional service, minimalist-chic suites with sea views and a beautiful, terraced restaurant shaded by pines.
