Essential Croatia

9 Days

Essential Croatia

From Zagreb to Dubrovnik

Visit Croatia’s most enticing areas including Zagreb, Split, Hvar, Plitvice Lakes National Park and Dubrovnik. You’ll even enjoy an excursion to Montenegro by boat!

Unique Explorations

  • Get lost in the beauty of Plitvice Lakes National Park.
  • Your included walking tours are a fantastic way to get acquainted with each city.
  • Melt away the stresses at one of Hvar’s famous beaches.
  • Embark on a day-trip to Montenegro, where you’ll discover medieval villages, coastal towns, and cathedrals only accessible by boat.
  • Enjoy sweeping views of the cities below from looming fortresses and ancient palaces.

Croatia is calling! Stay in and discover four diverse regions of Croatia, from capital cities to picturesque islands to national parks. Enjoy guided tours in each destination, including a day trip to the country of Montenegro, where medieval villages and stunning fjords await!

You’ll start in the capital city of Zagreb, where you’ll be surrounded by Austro-Hungarian architecture, and maybe even a Gothic cathedral or two. Your next stop is in Split, a town known for its breathtaking beaches and fortress-like complex that dominates the center. Next you’ll spend two nights on the island of Hvar, listed as one of the 10 most beautiful islands in the world by Conde Nast Traveler.

The final three nights of your journey will be spent in Dubrovnik, where you’ll pass by architecture from a variety of periods – from baroque to Renaissance. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, sample locally-produced wine, or peruse the boutiques and shops for the perfect handmade souvenir to bring home!

PRICES FROM: $2,901*PER PERSON

*Vacation is round-trip, per person, based on 2 travelers departing from
Atlanta. Includes air, airport taxes, hotel, transfers, daily breakfast and more. Additional baggage charges may apply. Rates are available for 1 to 9 travelers. Sceptre

Rates are not guaranteed until booked.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Arrive at Zagreb Airport, where you will be met before enjoying a transfer to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure; tonight you’ll be treated to a welcome dinner!

Transfer to Zagreb hotel

Check In – The Westin Zagreb

ZAGREB, CROATIA 5 out of 5 stars

Escape the bustle and immerse yourself in serenity at the contemporary The Westin Zagreb, centrally located in the very heart of the city. The hotel is nestled in a leafy green area, adjacent to the Mimara Museum and world famous National Theater and Opera House, and is within easy walking distance of the city’s central square, markets, trendy cafes, designer boutiques, and rich cultural attractions. Settle into your spacious room, take a nap on your comfy bed, use the hotel’s WiFi to plan your day, then get exploring!

After an exciting day of sightseeing, make your way back to the hotel and pamper yourself with a decadent spa treatment. Unwind in the sauna, break a sweat in the fitness center, or take a refreshing dip in the sparkling pool. When you work up an appetite, head to the on-site Kaptol Restaurant and dine in a magnificent atmosphere that boasts high ceilings, natural light, and a quaint outdoor terrace. Enjoy the pleasant breeze as you sip on some wine and indulge in traditional Croatian cuisine. After dinner, unwind with a cocktail at the classy Diana Bar and Lounge.

Recognized for offering discreet surroundings and professional caring service, The Westin Zagreb is a regular host to high profile local, national, and international events. It has been the favorite home-away-from-home for visiting royalty, world leaders, international dignitaries and other travelers seeking the comfort of a modern luxury hotel.

Day 02 :
Zagreb

After breakfast, embark on a morning sightseeing tour! The rest of the day is at leisure; get lost in the winding city streets, or pick up a handmade souvenir at one of the many shops and boutiques.

Zagreb City Walking Tour

See the gems of Zagreb on this morning tour! You’ll venture through historic Upper Town, then discover by some of the religious highlights of the city, from the medieval St. Mark’s Church to the Baroque-style St. Catherine’s Church.

You’ll also pass the Zagreb Cathedral – the tallest build in Croatia – as well as the important and iconic Parliament building and Government Place.

After breakfast, embark on a journey to the magnificent Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

After your visit, continue to your next destination, the port city of Split. Your evening is free to begin exploring on your own.

Check In – Hotel President Split

SPLIT, CROATIA 4 out of 5 stars

Experience elegant luxury at Hotel President Split, located in the heart of Split, at the foothills of the famous Marjan Hill. Breathe in the pureness of the sea air in the morning, and be lulled by the sounds of the waves at night. Settle into your spacious room, admire its artwork and rich decor, and use the hotel’s free WiFi to plan your day. Freshen up using complimentary toiletries in the modern bathroom, then begin exploring Split! Hotel President Split is within easy walking distance of tons of sights, attractions, and beaches.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, head back to the hotel and take a nap on your large, comfy bed. Watch some TV, scroll through photos from the day, and gaze out at the stunning view from your window. When it’s time to eat, head down to the magnificent on-site restaurant and indulge in traditional Mediterranean cuisine. Try mouthwatering local fish or meat specialties, and be sure to pair it with a glass of wine! Unwind with a cocktail or a pastry and a coffee at the classy lobby bar before heading up to bed.

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Plitvice Lakes National Park Walking Tour

Explore one of the gems of Croatia, where rapid waterfalls, limestone canyons, and hiking trails await! You’ll take a walking tour around several of the lower lakes, enjoying the breathtaking scenery of terraced lakes, thickly wooded mountains, and lush vegetation.

Today begins with a walking tour of Spit’s historic inner city! There’s some time free before you board the ferry and set sail to Hvar Island.

Ferry to Hvar!

Check In – Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort

HVAR, CROATIA 4 out of 5 stars

Immerse yourself in luxury and elegance at this heavenly beachfront hideaway. Settle into your spacious room, take a peek at the view from your window, then use the free WiFi to send amazing photos to your friends and family. Go ahead, make them jealous.

Take a quick nap on your large, comfortable bed, freshen up in your beautiful bathroom, then unpack your swimsuit and head outside. Take a refreshing dip in the pool, lounge in the warm sun, or swim up to the pool bar and enjoy a well-deserved drink. Pamper yourself with an ocean-side massage, work all your stresses away in the rooftop gym, or walk along the white sand of the beach.

When you work up an appetite, indulge in a variety of different cuisine at any of the magnificent on-site restaurants. Savor steak and seafood on the Veranda at Bonj, enjoy a tasty bite while feeling the vibes of lively music at Momo Beach, or feast your eyes on panoramic views at the elegant Windows on Hvar Restaurant.

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Split City Walking Tour

Enjoy a walking tour of the historic inner city of Split, built around the Roman Emperor Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. Meet your guide in front of the Diocletian Palace entrance, then explore the remnants of Split’s Roman heritage.

Gaze in awe at its Renaissance and Gothic structures and the Temple of Jupiter, originally an ancient Roman temple dedicated to the king of the gods. Continue to Peristyle Square in the center of the city, then end at the Cathedral of Saint Domnius, regarded as the oldest Catholic cathedral still in use.

Day 05 :
Hvar Island

The town of Hvar has a unique cultural and historical heritage, plus a centuries-old tradition in tourism. Start your day off with a walking tour and get acquainted with the city!

Spend the rest of the afternoon enjoying this charming island; unwind at one of the picturesque beaches, enjoy a freshly-caught meal, or simply stroll along the magnificent coastline – be sure to catch the sunset!

Hvar Walking Tour

Embark on a morning walking tour featuring some of Hvar’s most iconic and breathtaking places. Enjoy views of the famous Fortress, the 15th-century Franciscan Monastery, and more.

Leave the island life behind as you return to mainland and continue to the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” Dubrovnik. You’ll enjoy a drive along the picturesque Croatian coast, where you’ll be treated to views of the world-famous natural beauty of the area.

After dinner your time is free to discover the city by night; consider popping into one of the many cafes offering live music!

Check In – Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA 4 out of 5 stars

Escape to this relaxing retreat, where you’ll wake up to the fresh smell of salty sea air and fall asleep to the faint sound of waves crashing. Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, the proud recipient of the prestigious 2013 and 2015 World Travel Award as “Croatia’s Leading Hotel“ and the 2014 and the 2015 World Travel Award as “Croatia’s Leading Business Hotel“, is located on the tranquil Babin Kuk peninsula, surrounded by pine tree forests and soothing white pebble beaches. Renowned for its fusion of nature and state of the art facilities, the hotel offers ultra modern rooms and suites, the largest MICE facilities in the area, memorable gastronomic experiences in its gourmet restaurant, a wine bar terrace with panoramic views of the Elaphiti Islands, and an abundance of activities.

Open the door to your airy room and admire its stylish decor and modern amenities. Peel away the curtains and feel your eyes widen as your gaze out at the breathtaking view. Sprawl out on your comfortable bed, use the hotel’s WiFi to say hello to family and friends, or catch up on your favorite TV show. Then, let the fun begin! Unpack your swimsuit and head to the sparkling outdoor pool. Take a refreshing dip or lounge in the sun with a cold drink in hand. Take a whack at a match of tennis, work all your stresses away in the fitness center, or set off on a banana boat ride! Interested in parasailing, kayaking, water skiing, and other water sports? Just ask a friendly staff team member! Doze off on the beach, find serenity in the sauna, or pamper yourself with a decadent massage. Come on, you’re on vacation.

When it’s time to eat, indulge in mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine at any of the fabulous on-site dining options. From casual outdoor terrace cafes to fine dining with a view, the Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik has a restaurant for everyone. Unwind with a drink in the classy Nocturno Cocktail Bar, or grab a drink by the pool and watch the sun set over the bright blue ocean.

Day 07 :
Dubrovnik

This morning, a walking tour shows you Old Dubrovnik. The rest of the day is at leisure! Consider riding the bright-orange cable car up from old town to the mountain of Srd; you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the city below.

You may also want to wind down at a beach, go souvenir shopping on the bustling street of Stradun, or perhaps treat yourself to a sampling of locally-produced wines!

Dubrovnik City Walking Tour

See the highlights of Old Town Dubrovnik on a morning walking tour! Meet your local guide at Pile Gate in front of Old Town, the natural starting point to any Dubrovnik visit. Begin at Rector’s Palace, built in the 15th-century as the home of Dubrovnik’s elected rector, then see Bell Tower Clock and Orlando’s Column, a symbol of the city’s freedom.

Continue to Sponza Palace, a splendid 16th-century palace that was a customs house, a mint, a state treasury and a bank. You’ll also enjoy views of the Dominican Monastery and the famous Franciscan Monastery with its pharmacy, one of the oldest in the world dating back to 1371.

Day 08 :
Dubrovnik

Today you’ll embark on an excursion to Montenegro, including a relaxing boat ride to the famous cathedral, Our Lady of the Rocks. You will stop in Perast, an old charming coastal town, followed by a stop in Kotor before returning to Dubrovnik.

Celebrate your last night in Dubrovnik by taking a stroll through the Old Town as it comes alive with energy at night.

Excursion from Dubrovnik to Montenegro

Travel to the republic of Montenegro, where you’ll find medieval villages and beaches lining the Adriatic coastline. You’ll head to the mouth of the beautiful Bay of Kotor, the longest and deepest fjord in Southern Europe.

Visit the city of Kotor, then enjoy a scenic boat ride to Our Lady of the Rocks, one of two islets off the coast of Perast. Here you can explore the Roman Catholic Church – the largest building on the islet – and its attached museum.

Today you will be transported to Dubrovnik Airport for your departure flight.

Transfer to Dubrovnik airport (DBV)

Fly home!

What's Included

  • Round-trip economy class airfare into Zagreb (ZAG), out of Dubrovnik (DBV)
  • Round-trip airport transfers
  • 2 nights in Zagreb at The Westin Zagreb, or similar
  • 1 night in Split at Hotel President Split, or similar
  • 2 nights in Hvar at Amfora Hvar Grand Beach Resort, or similar
  • 3 nights in Dubrovnik at Valamar Lacroma Dubrovnik Hotel, or similar
  • Daily Breakfast
  • 4 Dinners
  • Sightseeing as per itinerary, including the tours below (including headsets)
  • Sightseeing tour of Zagreb
  • Walking Tour of Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Walking Tour of Split
  • Walking tour of Hvar
  • Walking tour of Old Dubrovnik
  • Excursion to Montenegro with boat ride
  • Touring and transportation by air conditioned motorcoach
  • Professional Tour Director throughout
  • Luggage Handling
  • Hotel service charges & taxes

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Essential Croatia