Explore Croatia
Experience Overview
Discover the true heart and soul of Croatia with an eight-day seaside exploration of some of the Dalmatian Coast’s finest locations. Walk the walls of the Old Town of Dubrovnik, island hop between Korcula, Mljet and Hvar and wander the harbourside of Split. Sampling regional specialties and local wine along the way, your Croatian discovery is full of nature and relaxation. Be impressed by the white stone villages dotted on the coast, be fulfilled with local produce and engaging history, and be reinvigorated by the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Get ready to explore Croatia’s sparkling highlights and live like the locals.
Highlights
- Dubrovnik's charms reach far beyond the famed beautiful city walls. Discover the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast and maybe cruise to Lokrum Island where a botanical garden, Benedictine monastery and excellent swimming spots await.
- Indulge in specialty foods, local wine and some tranquil swimming spots on the island of Korcula – a quiet escape full of vineyards, olive groves and sleepy villages.
- Spend a full day exploring the green island of Mljet – with its small seaside villages, lush national park trails, shimmering waters and largely untouched environment, you’ll never want to leave!
- Hvar Island seems to have it all - Renaissance architecture, beautiful beaches, vibrant landscapes and excellent Dalmatian cuisine.
- Split is a haven of relaxation and culture. Unwind with a walk along the waterfront promenade and take time to explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace.
Trip Details
Product Code: 3241
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Ferry,Public bus,Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Tour Operator:
Intrepid Travel
Supplier Code: ZMSF
Starts: Dubrovnik, Croatia
Finishes: Split, Croatia
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (3), Dinner (1)Accommodation: Hostel (2 nights),Hotel (1 night),Private Apartment (4 nights)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2,885 ($361 /day)
Itinerary
Dobro Dosli! Welcome to Croatia. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. You can arrive at any time during the day as there are no activities planned until this important meeting. Although it experienced devastation during the war in the early 1990s, Dubrovnik’s old town is the undisputed jewel of the Dalmatian Coast. With its tiled roofs and white stone buildings, the old town remains as charming as ever. Extensive restoration has taken place to return it to its original splendour, and even today repairs are still being undertaken. With the sparkling water of the Adriatic in the background, Dubrovnik is picturesque, full of character and can easily be covered on foot. If you do arrive early, why not head out to one of the Elafiti Islands? There's Lopud, a quiet island with lovely hikes, clean beaches and a ruined castle. Kolocep is a sleepy enclave that boasts walks for every fitness level and Sipan, which is the most populated of the isles and reputedly has the most hospitable inhabitants. Alternatively, you might choose to simply laze about on one of Dubrovnik's beaches and people-watch for hours.
Accommodation:
- Hostel (twin share with private facilities ) (Number of Nights: 1)
Start the day by beating the crowds with an early morning walk along Dubrovnik's famous 2-kilometre-long city walls surrounding the old town. Enjoy views of the sea from the fully intact medieval structure, then enjoy all that Dubrovnik has to offer with the remainder of the day free for you to explore. Visit Big Onofrio's Fountain, a masterpiece built by famous European architect Onofrio della Cava. This 15th-century landmark was built to supply water to the city, flowing from the spigots into the collection trough surrounding it. Be sure to check out the Franciscan monastery with one of the world's oldest, continuously functioning pharmacies, founded in the 13th century. If you still feel energetic after a day exploring the city you can take the switchbacks leading up Srd Hill behind Dubrovnik for spectacular views of the city and the Dalmatian coastline. Otherwise, the newly restored cable car can whisk you to the top in no time. The hill is topped by a castle of Napoleonic times, which now houses the Museum of the Croatian War of Independence.
Included Activities:
- Dubrovnik - Dubrovnik Card (1 day local transport and entry to sites)
- Dubrovnik - City Walls Walk
Optional Activities:
- Dubrovnik - Hike up Mt Srd - Free
- Dubrovnik - Church of St. Blaise - Free
- Dubrovnik - Lokrum Island Boat Trip (27 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Museum of Croatian War of Independence (4 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - Discover Game of Thrones Filming Locations Urban Adventure (69 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - Mt Srd Cable Car (27 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - War Photography Museum (10 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - Rector's Palace (13 EUR)
- Dubrovnik - Franciscan Monastery (4 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hostel (twin share with private facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
Journey to Korcula today, along the narrow and scenic Peljesac Peninsula to its very tip. The last stretch to Korcula will be done by car ferry. For the next two nights, stay with generous hosts – locals who rent out their rooms in the summer season. The rooms, while simple, are the best way to put money back into the local economy. When you arrive, head out for a sunset hike to Zrnovo village. Wind through old villages next to olive trees and soak up the view over Peljesac Channel. End your hike when you arrive at a family-owned restaurant in Zrnovo village and sit down for an included dinner of local ingredients, including traditional Dalmatian meat loaf or pasticada (traditional stewed beef) and some fresh grilled vegetables with olive oil, usually served with fresh goat and sheep cheeses (and maybe some smoked ham to tie it all together). Return back to Korcula via private vehicle and use the evening to relax.
Included Activities:
- Korcula Island hike
- Authentic dinner at Zrnovo village family owned restaurant
Optional Activities:
- Korcula - Traditional Moreska Dance Performance (18 EUR)
- Korcula – City Museum (6 EUR)
- Korcula - Wine tasting at local winery (20 EUR)
- Korcula – Hop on hop off boat (20 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Private apartment (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, head on a day trip to the stunning Mljet Island. Mljet is Croatia’s greenest island, with a large section of the north western shores part of a national park. The island is well known for its two salt lakes – Veliko Jezero and Malo Jezero (big lake and small lake) – that are located at the north end of the island. With some of the clearest waters in the world, any of the Adriatic islands shimmer in the sunlight, but Mljet is extra special. Start Mljet's exploration with a short hike into the island's interior, followed by a ferry ride to St Mary's Benedictine Monastery, located on an island in one of the lakes. Spend the day discovering its tiny towns dotted around the island, the weaving and winding coastline full of nature walks and scenic lookouts and, of course, the sandy beaches, tranquil inlets and turquoise blue shores calling out to be explored. Mljet is a little further away and less visited than the tourist hotspots of Brac and Hvar, so you’ll be able to stray away from the crowds and have this peaceful paradise to yourself. Head back to Korcula in the afternoon for a relaxing evening, hopefully full of delicious food and some great local wine.
Included Activities:
- Mljet Island - Day Trip to Mljet Island National Park
- Mljet Island - St Mary Island Benedictine Monastery
Accommodation:
- Private apartment (Number of Nights: 1)
A hydrofoil ferry takes you to the neighbouring island of Hvar this morning. . Beautiful Hvar has an air of Venice about it and is known as the 'Queen of the Dalmatian Islands'. When you arrive, get to know the town with its wonderfully preserved Renaissance facades on an orientation walk. Later, you can enjoy your included hop on hop off taxi boat pass that departs every half hour to the nearby Pakleni islands – largely uninhabited and often described as being among the most beautiful in the world. All three islands have gorgeous beaches and walking trails to explore and also boast plenty of bars and restaurants, so you'll have no shortage of lunch, aperitif and dinner spots to choose from!
Included Activities:
- Hop on hop off boat taxi ticket
Accommodation:
- Private apartment (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is a free day to explore this island at your leisure. Maybe take a bus to the interior of Hvar Island where you can take a leisurely hike through the abandoned villages of Velo Grablje and Malo Grablje, gently descending all the way down to the sea at Milna Bay. On the way you can witness what remains of the typical Mediterranean life that flourished on the Croatian islands in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hike past dramatic jagged limestone cliffs and slow your pace to enjoy the undulating farms, fields of lavender and rosemary, and ancient olive groves. Cool down in the shimmering waters upon arrival into the little town of Milna where the hike ends. Alternatively there are plenty of other options for exciting activities in town. If you’re not feeling super energetic today, spend the day lounging at one of the island's many quiet beaches and enjoy a sunset stroll along the harbour promenade.
Optional Activities:
- Hvar Island - Full Day Boat Cruise to Blue Cave, Green Cave and Vis Island (70 EUR)
- Hvar Island - Spanjola Fortress (7 EUR)
- Hvar Island - Pakleni Islands Half Day Trip (35 EUR)
- Hvar Island - St Stephen’s Cathedral (2 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Private apartment (Number of Nights: 1)
Catch a boat to Split this morning. Situated on a small peninsula on the eastern shores of the Adriatic Sea, Split is the second largest city in Croatia. Join a local guide for a walking tour of this stunning seaside town and get to know its history. See the original and fantastically preserved basements under the city, as well as the Cathedral in Diocletian's Peristyle and Jupiter's Temple. Explore the impressive ruins of Diocletian's Palace – Split's most imposing structure and some of the most interesting ruins on the Adriatic coast. Portions of the Palace are over 1700 years old and there’s ample time to walk around. Split grew out from Diocletian's Palace and you can almost see it evolving in a multitude of different ways right before your eyes. Some cultures might have made the palace a museum, but Split is a dynamic and vibrant place, and now the palace houses many businesses and homes. If your feet get tired, why not grab a drink at a cafe on the Riva Promenade and people watch for a while? Be sure get your group together for a harbourside dinner – it’s time for more of a relax!
Included Activities:
- Split - City Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Split - Diocletian's Palace
Optional Activities:
- Split - Diocletian's Palace Cellars (7 EUR)
- Split - Fish Market - Free
- Split – Highlights of Split Urban Adventure (64 EUR)
- Split - Marjan Hill Hike - Free
- Split - St Domnius Cathedral and Tower (10 EUR)
- Split - Ethnographic Museum (3 EUR)
- Split - City Museum (4 EUR)
- Split - Gallery of Fine Arts (5 EUR)
- Split - Ivan Mestrovic Gallery (12 EUR)
- Split - Archaeological Museum (8 EUR)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to see in Split and the surrounding area, such as Salona, Trogir or Sibenik, you may want to consider extending your time in Split. Just speak to your booking agent.
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Jacqueline - Traveled, October 2023
This is a wonderful introduction to the coast of Croatia. You will enjoy fabulous scenery, activities and beautiful food. You will be kept busy but you can opt in or out as you choose - and you still have plenty of opportunity for your own free time. Some accommodation can be a 10 minute walk away (with plenty of steps) so keep this in mind with your luggage.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/17/2023
Genevieve - Traveled, September 2023
Fabulous trip. Not regimented, plenty of free time. Marija was a wonderful tour leader with a breadth of interests and passion for her country, considerate, kind, informative and loads of fun.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/23/2023
Robert - Traveled, September 2023
A great trip, wonderful places, a very good leader. I can thoroughly recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/06/2023
Marsha - Traveled, September 2023
The quality of every aspect of this tour, was a reflection of Intrepid's mission to provide and promote responsible travel. I would definitely choose them again in the future, and would recommend Intrepid to those looking for an affordable, environmentally conscious small group tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/16/2023
Donna - Traveled, September 2023
This was my first trip with Intrepid and I will recommend them to traveling friends. Good places with a fun knowledgable guide make a good trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/30/2023
Penny - Traveled, September 2023
Intrepid trips are just so easy. You get to be a traveler and explore the local area in depth. Accommodations are local and make you feel like you are fitting into the local culture instead of standing out as a tourist. Intrepid does a great job of blending travel with culture.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/11/2023
Janet - Traveled, September 2023
We are a couple in our early 70’s & this was our first Intrepid Tour. We loved the variety of places, activities & the friendliness of our small group. There was a 50 year age range but we enjoyed everyone’s company. Our guide Flutra had a big part in making our week so memorable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/12/2023
Jaclyn - Traveled, September 2023
This is my 8th Intrepid trip and I’m sure it won’t be my last. This was a nice shorter trip with a good pace, as we spent 2 nights in each location except the last city. So even though it’s a short trip, it had time for relaxation as well as exploration. There weren’t many included activities and even the trip to the national park had an element of being able to go off on your own if you wanted to. Highlights of the trip were the national park, going to the Blue Cave and the included dinner as well as the many opportunities to swim and explore the old cities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2023
Janet - Traveled, September 2023
A fabulous one-of-a-kind adventure and met some friends for life!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
Ani - Traveled, September 2023
I loved this tour! We saw and did a lot without it feeling too rushed or hectic. I found it was a good mix of spending time with the group and having free time as well. It was well-organized without feeling too rigid. Our tour guide Raluca was amazing as well - so kind, knowledgeable, and organized, and very easy to get along with. There are so many highlights to this trip and it's such a stunning country. Highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/20/2023
Amanda - Traveled, September 2023
Our tour guide Raluka was excellent - very knowledgeable, helpful and friendly. We appreciated Raluka’s energy and commitment to making the tour a happy experience for all travellers. The tour provided a good mix of organised/included experiences and independent time, and took the stress out of organising and coordinating ourselves. Other people on the tour were friendly, likeminded and considerate, and we enjoyed their company.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Beth - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent introduction to the Croatian coast and islands. Beautiful places to visit with a great guide.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/15/2023
Larissa - Traveled, August 2023
Our ‘Explore Croatia’ tour was an incredible experience. We were able to enjoy so many beautiful places in Croatia including Dubrovnik, Mljet, Korcula, Hvar and Split. In each location we had set activities and free time. Our fantastic tour guide Dinko made sure that we were always enjoying ourselves and making the most of our time. He was so knowledgeable and informative, we learnt so much about the locations we visited. I highly recommend this tour, and any tour that Dinko runs! Such amazing memories to last a lifetime. Thanks Intrepid! And most of all, Thanks Dinko!!!!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Gina - Traveled, April 2024
A fantastic week spent exploring the Croatian coastline. Our guide, Dora, made it a great experience with excellent knowledge of the area and awesome restaurant recommendations. The full day boat trip from Hvar was a particular highlight.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/27/2023
Melinda - Traveled, August 2023
Local guides make the difference. Dora had so much knowledge about the history, culture, people and landscape and was so happy and proud to share it with the group, that it turned a great trip into an excellent one.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/01/2023
Teodora - Traveled, August 2023
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/08/2023
Hollie - Traveled, July 2023
This trip was my first trip with Intrepid and what a brilliant one it was! Thank you to our group leader Lucija for being so knowledgeable, friendly and helpful throughout. This trip is a perfect mixture of cities and islands and the use of local transport and accommodation meant that it was authentic and showed the real Croatia! I would recommend this trip to anyone!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/10/2023
Laura - Traveled, July 2023
My trip to Croatia was a wonderful mix of beach holiday and cultural education. I enjoyed traveling as part of a small group--I had the convenience of a planned itinerary and fun travel companions, with the freedom to do things on my own during unstructured times.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/10/2023
Deb - Traveled, July 2023
This is a good introduction to Croatia with some good information provided along the way. There are aspects that are basic like travelling on public buses which really I could’ve organised ourselves. There are A LOT of steps in Croatia and a fair Level of fitness was required during the heat as it was really hot. I felt that some walking aspects could’ve been organised earlier in the day to avoid the heat.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/30/2023
wendy - Traveled, July 2023
Explore Croatia is a fabulous place to start if you are visiting Croatia for the first time. The 7 nights were well paced with a good mix of free time. There was enough freedom of choices also. We were extremely happy and really like travelling with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2023
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